CONOR BENN SIGNS NEW MULTI-FIGHT DEAL WITH MATCHROOM

Rising Welterweight star Conor Benn has signed a new multi-fight deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing after maintaining his perfect record with a shutout points with over Adrian Granados in Leeds earlier this month. 

‘The Destroyer’ (19-0, 12 KOs), who has made incredible improvements under Tony Sims, is one of the hottest talents in world boxing following an impressive run of standout wins that have skyrocketed him into World Title contention in the ultra-competitive 147lbs division.  

The 24-year-old Essex native began his excellent run of form by dominating Germany’s Sebastian Formella over ten rounds last November, outfighting and outboxing the former IBO World Champion at the top of the bill at The SSE Arena, Wembley. 

Benn sent out a brutal warning to his Welterweight rivals by wiping out Samuel Vargas inside the opening round at the Copper Box Arena in April, living up to his nickname as he took just 1 minute and 20 seconds to viciously halt the durable Colombian. 

20,000 fans gave Benn a deafening welcome as he made his first ever ring walk in Leeds, and the fan favourite repaid their support by widely outpointing the elusive Mexican Granados to retain his WBA Continental Title and stay in line for a World Title shot. 

“I am extremely excited to extend my professional relationship with Matchroom Boxing,” said Benn. “Matchroom believed in me from the start, they gave me an amazing opportunity and have supported me to grow as a professional fighter, now with the backing of a global streaming platform in DAZN we have made huge plans to be involved in big fights, headlining major events across the globe and making progressive moves towards achieving my goal of being a World Champion in the near future. 

“I want to say thank you to my team, Tony Sims, Charlie Sims and Lee Emptage for their help in assisting me to getting this deal over the line, also Eddie Hearn for the continued belief in pursuing my dreams and making them a reality, lastly a thank you to the rest of the Matchroom Boxing team for the hard work that goes into the events behind the scenes and making the special nights possible.”

“I’m delighted to sign a new multi-fight promotional deal with Conor Benn,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “I’ve witnessed first hand how hard this young man has worked and he now sits as a major player in British boxing. He next fight will be in December and an announcement on this will be made soon.”

“Working with Conor and Matchroom Boxing is a pleasure, both professionally and personally,” said Tony Sims. “I have seen the talent emerge from Conor since the early stages, it has taken time and persistence to get here and I know Eddie and the Matchroom team have always backed us, produced opportunities and delivered at the highest level. Right now, in my opinion there isn’t a better team in boxing for Conor to take him all the way. With Matchroom and DAZN supporting us, Conor can progress to a level where he can be consistently headline major events, in major fights as we continue our pursuit of World Title challenges. I’m extremely happy we have a solid plan and signed a deal moving forward with Eddie and the team.”




Weights from Philadelphia

Samuel Teah 139.8 – Larry Fryers 138.9

Jesse Hart 169.5 – Mike Guy 171

Romuel Cruz 122.3 – Roberto Pucheta 122.5
Brendan O’Callaghan 157.8 – Davon Hall 161
Jerrod Miner 116.6 – Josh Arrons 116.3
Jabril Noble 134.5 – David Boria 140
Isaiah Johnson 140.7 – Leonidas Fowlkes 145.5

Promoter: RDR Promotions
Venue: 2300 Arena
1st Bell: 7 PM ET
Stream: BXNGTV.com

Photo Credit: Marc Abrams / RDR Promotions

Tickets for this great night of boxing are $150, $100, $75 and $250 for VIP Box and can be purchased by contacting rdrboxing@yahoo.com or https://2300arena.showare.com/ordertickets.asp?p=373&src=default




TRILLERVERZ II CONTINUES RECORD BREAKING STREAK OF VIEWERSHIP!!

New York City / Fort Lauderdale, FL (September 16, 2021) Hip Hop fans and Boxing fans were the huge winners this past Tuesday night, September 14 as TRILLERVERZ II delivered record-breaking numbers of viewership once again. With an outstanding five-fight boxing card from the Hard Rock LIVE at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino followed by a star-studded, celebrity filled Verzuz Battle between FAT JOE and JA RULE from the Hulu Theater at Madison Square GardenTRILLERVERZ truly delivered once again in an unprecedented way.

With total viewership still being tabulated, TRILLERVERZ II will exceed the 5,000,000 broadcast views from its debut on August 3 which featured the first LIVE Verzuz Battle between THE LOX and DIPSET.  

Included among the stars who joined FAT JOE and JA RULE as they went twenty rounds onstage Tuesday night were NELLY, ASHANTI, REMY MA, LIL MO and VITA.

Said the Former Heavyweight Champion of the World, SHANNON ‘THE CANNON’ BRIGGS’, “This was my first Triller Fight Club boxing event and I was blown away by the quality of the fights and the intensity of the production. It’s no wonder all the old-time boxing promoters have it out for them. They are shaking up boxing, Let’s GO Champ.”

Below is a chart detailing the TRILLERVERZ events as they relate to the average viewership of other top network shows over the last twelve months

2020 Sunday Night Football (NBC) – 6,216,000

2021 TrillerVerz I and II (August 3, September 14, 2021) – 5,022,000

2020 Thursday Night Football (FOX/NFL) – 5,008,000

2020 Monday Night Football (ESPN) – 4,494,000

2021 This is US (NBC) – 2,636,000

2021 The Masked Singer (FOX) – 2,599,000

2021 Grey Anatomy (NBC) – 2,519,000

2021 Equalizer (CBS) – 2,442,000

2021 9-1-1 (FOX) – 2,442,000

2021 The Bachelorette (ABC) – 2,308,000

2021 The Bachelor (ABC) – 2,283,000

The extraordinary numbers for a new industry venture truly validate the quick success of TRILLERVERZ, created and overseen by world renowned producers SWIZZ BEATZ and TIMBALAND and produced by TRILLER FIGHT CLUB, the internationally acclaimed company known for pairing world class boxing and iconic music legends.

Big winners in the boxing ring on Tuesday night were DANIELITO ZORRILLA, NAHIR ALBRIGHT, MIGUEL MADUENO-ANGULO, YUNIESKI GONZALEZ and BRYCE HENRY.

The entire TRILLERVERZ event can be replayed at FITE.TV and www.TrillerFightClub.com. Details on the next TRILLERVERZ will be announced shortly!

TRILLER FIGHT CLUB returns to the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden on October 4, 2021 with an extraordinary boxing card headlined by the highly anticipated UNDISPUTED Lightweight World Championship between Champion, ‘THE TAKEOVER’ TEOFIMO LOPEZ and Mandatory Challenger ‘FEROCIOUS’ GEORGE KAMBOSOS. Tickets starting at $56 can be purchased at www.TrillerFightClub.com. The event will be broadcast live on Pay-Per-View priced at $49.99 available globally through FITE.TV  and on traditional cable/satellite via iNDemand.

About TrillerNet:

FITE and Triller Fight Club are owned by TrillerNet, a first-of-its-kind company consolidating technology and content platforms to lead the move to Internet 3.0. TrillerNet pairs the culture of music with sports, fashion, entertainment and influencers through a 360-degree view of content and technology. TrillerNet—which owns the globally popular Triller app used by musicians, celebrities, athletes, and overall culture setters—has more than 300 million users worldwide. The Triller app—unlike other popular short-video apps it is often compared to, encourages its users to post the content created on the app across other social media platforms and websites. The app uses proprietary AI and Machine Learning technology which is uniquely tied to the content rather than the user. By tracking the content, Triller empowers its tastemakers and users to push their content virally to affiliated and non-affiliated sites and networks reaching hundreds of millions of additional users. Data and insights gleaned from the Triller network, its creators, artists and users (from the app and off network) are used to program longer-form content, connect users across the web with the content, and provide unprecedented opportunities for engagement and monetization. TrillerNet has developed highly successful campaigns that begin with the app and continue throughout the entire content and technology ecosystem with some of the biggest brands in the world, including Pepsi, McDonalds, Weedmaps, DraftKings, L’Oreal, and many others. TrillerNet offers brands a unique content and technology solution, including direct deals with the influencers and celebrities. This branded content journey starts with short-form video and can easily expand into valuable long-form content distributed through the Triller Network, such as live-event boxing and music PPVs, fashion shows, and episodic reality content on TrillerTV. Some of the more than 65 original half-hour TrillerTV shows include The D’Amelios Family’s “Ask a DAM Question,” Jennifer Lopez In The Morning, Jake Paul: Staying On Top, 2 Chainz Let’s Do It, DJ Khaled’s Spreading Love, Hype House’s Thomas Petrou’s Coffee Talks, Josh Richards’ Josh Pong, Ur Lov’d: the Noah Beck Show, Fat Joe’s Masterclass, The Perez Hilton Show, and Violet Benson’s Too Tired To Be Crazy, among others. TrillerNet additionally owns Verzuz, the massive live-stream music platform launched by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland, and Triller Fight Club (www.TrillerFightClub.com), which launched last year with the highly successful Tyson-Jones Fight which shattered digital PPV records. Other holdings include leading AI-powered customer engagement platform Amplify.ai, and FITE, the premier live event and PPV, AVOD, SVOD streaming platform.

About FITE:

FITE is the premium global platform for live sports and entertainment offering many of the industry’s marquee PPV events and SVOD packages with over 5.1MM registered users. FITE is available worldwide through its iOS, Android and Huawei mobile apps, as well as via Apple TV, Android TV, ROKU, and Amazon Fire TV OTT streaming apps. In addition, FITE supports Shaw Communications’ Blue Curve IPTV, LG, Samsung, Vizio SmartCast™, Cox Contour and the Contour Streaming Player, Foxxum, Chromecast, PS4, XBOX, ZEASN, Comcast’s Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Flex, Netrange, Vidaa/Hisense, VEWD, Netgem TV, Virgin Media, as well as over 7,000 models of Smart TVs. Available online at www.FITE.tv. FITE is owned by TrillerNet.

FITE: It’s ON. Follow us on Twitter, InstagramYouTubeLinkedIN, and Facebook

FOLLOW TRILLER FIGHT CLUB AND VERZUZ

Triller Fight Club

Instagram: @Triller, @TrillerFightClub

Twitter: @Triller, @TrillerFight

Facebook: @TrillerFightClub

Website www.Triller.co

Verzuz

Instagram: @VerzuzTV

Twitter: @VerzuzOnline

Facebook: @Verzuz




Blair Cobbs Targets Adrien Broner and Conor Benn

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 16, 2021) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated welterweight, Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (14-0-1, 9 KOs), wants to give the fans a big fight and is targeting Adrien Broner (34-4-1, 24 KOs) and Conor Benn (19-0, 12 KO) as fighters he wishes to face next.

“It is time that I give the fans what they want, a great show, and I want to challenge either Adrien Broner or Conor Benn for my next fight,” said Cobbs, who is ready to face all of the biggest stars in the division. “I know I will stop Broner and I will beat Benn easily, the big question is will either of them fight me.”

“Blair is a fan-favorite and we would love to make a fight with another fighter that gets his fans excited and Broner, as well as Benn, fit that bill,” said Cobbs’ manager, Greg Hannley, CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “He is ready for any level of competition, and we are willing to put Blair in with anyone at any time.”

Cobbs last fought decorated amateur Brad Solomon, whom he stopped in the fifth round in a performance that had fight fans in El Paso, Texas on their feet. Cobbs now wants to take the division by storm.

“I want to show the fans my true skills, and to do that I need an opponent to bring it out of me,” said Cobbs. “I think both of these fights make sense and are realistic, and I have no issue signing a contract to fight, in fact, it is very easy. I beat Ferdinand Kerobyan in his backyard, I can do that again to another fighter as well, or we can fight in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or honestly anywhere – I just like to fight.”




Dana White’s Contender Series Episode Four Airs September 21 Exclusively on ESPN+

The ESPN+ exclusive presentation of Dana White’s Contender Series presented by ZipRecruiter continues with episode four next Tuesday, September 21, at 8 p.m. ET from UFC APEX in Las Vegas.   

A new group of contenders will meet each week, all looking to make their way into the UFC. Episode three of DWCS saw five athletes earn highly-coveted UFC contracts, including Jailton Almeida, who finished off Nasrudin Nasrudinov with a rear-naked choke in the second round.

DWCS introduces some of UFC’s top prospects from around the world in a ten-episode season, with new episodes available every Tuesday evening exclusively on ESPN+, the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service. Showcasing approximately five bouts in each episode, prospects will compete for the chance to earn a contract with UFC.

Following Tuesday night’s fights, 132 athletes throughout the series have now earned UFC contracts, including “Suga” Sean O’Malley, Ryan Spann, Maycee “The Future” Barber, Johnny Walker and Marina Rodriguez, who will be the first non-champion woman in UFC history to headline multiple events in a calendar year.

 Dana White’s Contender Series on ESPN+, Episode Four Bouts:

  • Middleweight – Hashem Arkhagha vs. AJ Dobson
  • Lightweight – Michael Morales vs. Nikolay Veretennikov
  • Featherweight – Steven Nguyen vs. Theo Rlayang
  • Flyweight – Kleydson Rodrigues vs. Santo Curatolo
  • Lightweight – Jacob Rosales vs. Victor Martinez

###

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).

About UFC®
UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 625 million fans and 142 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 171 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 72 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada.?For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.




Undefeated super featherweight prospect Daniel Bailey shipping up to Boston for first time

BOSTON (September 16, 2021) – Undefeated super featherweight Daniel “G.D.F.E.” Bailey (7-0, 4 KOs) is a young, military man who will be in Boston for the first time. Rather than sightseeing, though, he’s all business as he prepares for his September 25th fight on “Fight Night On The Charles III” at Mosley’s On The Charles in the Boston suburb of Dedham, Massachusetts.

Vertex Promotions, which will promoted “Fight Night On The Charles II” on Friday night, Sept. 24, also presents “Fight Night On The Charles at Moseley’s III,” as well as the USA Boxing-sanctioned amateur card, 2021 New England Championships, Saturday afternoon, all at “Mosley’s On The Charles.”

Bailey (7-0, 4 KOs), who fights out of Miami by way of Tampa (FL), will make his New England debut against an opponent to be finalized in a 4-round bout. A 4-time U.S. Army and 2012 Ringside National champion, Bailey is the cousin of multiple world champion Randall Bailey.

Most would think this Army veteran would try to visit Bunker Hill, Lexington and Concord where the Revolutionary War started, or any of the other many historic attractions for tourists in Boston. Forget that he’s not even attending Friday night’s show, never mind visit the nearby city.

“After the weigh in (Friday afternoon),” the 25-year-old Bailey said, “I’ll be resting in my room until Saturday. I don’t take anyone lightly. But I am excited to be fighting there for the first time and I’m ready to perform for the crowd. This trip is all business, I’m not on vacation.”

This will mark the active fighter’s sixth fight in 2021, possibly the most for any American fighter during the pandemic. In his last fight this past July in Miami, Bailey won a 4-round unanimous decision against Mike Fowler.

“I’m a man on a mission,” Bailey explained. “I want to end the year with a 10-0, 7 knockouts record. I’ve put pressure on myself because, I want to look great while winning. I’m a lot surer of myself as a professional than I was as an amateur. I’m still the same kid I was the first time I walked into the gym at an 11-year-old. I always put in overtime world that I’m not asked to do.”

Saturday night’s card will be headlined by undefeated welterweight prospect Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (11-0, 9 KOs) of Lawrence (MA), in an 8-round bout against Danny “Venado” Flores (15-24-1, 8 KOs).

In the 6-round co-featured event, undefeated welterweight prospect James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (8-0, 5 KOs), fighting out of Mansfield, Massachusetts, takes on Mexican veteran Isias Martin Cardona Gonzales (26-22, 18 KOs). Perella is a 4-time USA New England Championships and 4-time New England Golden Gloves Champion.

Another promising prospect, Weymouth, MA junior welterweight Eric “Gladiator” Goff (3-0, 2 KOs), and Dorchester (MA) featherweight Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), a 2016 Rocky Marciano Tournament champion, will be in action in 4-round bouts versus TBAs.

Lynn (MA) light heavyweight James Perkins (5-0-1, 4 KOs) takes on Trevor Ollison (0-2-1), while pro-debuting Marcus Davidson is matched against fellow Kansan Austin Reed Ward (0-8) in a pair 4-rounders.

Undefeated ABF American West and NBA Continental champion, 23-year-old Albany (NY) welterweight RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (13-0, 10 KOs) will headline Friday evening’s show in the 8-round lightweight match versus Uganda-native Philip “The Hunter” Adyaka (7-15, 4 KOs), who is fighting out of Saint Paul, Minnesota.

Cards are subject to change.

Tickets for both shows are on sale for $95.00 (row 1), $85.00 (2nd row), $65.00 (3rd row), $55.00 (general admission) and $45.00 (standing room). Contact any of the competing fighters to purchase tickets, limited availability at the door.

Doors will open at 7 pm. ET with the first bout scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET on both evenings.

Saturday afternoon’s (2-5 pm. ET.) amateur show will require a separate admission ($20.00 per person) on sale at the door.




JOSE VALENZUELA TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

BAKERSFIELD, CA. (September 16, 2021) – Rising lightweight prospect Jose Valenzuela will look to impress in his first main event appearance when he faces Colombia’s Deiner Berrio in a 10-round showdown that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, September 18 (7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT) from Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, California.

“I’ve dreamt about this moment since I was a little kid,” said Valenzuela. “Now I’m just ready to put on a show Saturday night and make a big statement. I have to let the whole division know that I’m here.”

The 22-year-old impressed in his last outing, stopping Donte Strayhorn in the fourth-round of their bout that aired on FOX prior to the Pacquiao vs. Ugas pay-per-view on August 21. While Valenzuela was pleased he was able to show off his aggressive style, he also saw facets of his game where he can improve on.

“I love putting on a good performance for the fans and getting them up out of their seats,” said Valenzuela. “I’m a very active fighter, because I grew up watching and appreciating fighters like Manny Pacquiao and Julio Cesar Chavez.

“You’re going to see better footwork from me in this fight. I’m a good boxer and I’m good on my toes, but I sometimes get bored of that. I like to fight in the trenches, but I know I have to be smart and use my defense also. I’m going to be using my jab and different angles in this fight. I’m not going to be standing straight up in front of Berrio.”

Berrio represents the most accomplished fighter who Valenzuela has faced so far in his young career. The 30-year-old Berrio has never been stopped and most recently lost a 10-round decision to unbeaten Juan Pablo Romero in April. Despite the gap in experience, Valenzuela believes he has the edge in ring IQ that will help him come out victorious.

“Berrio has a style where he fights off his back foot, gets low and then explodes with wild overhand rights,” said Valenzuela. “It’s a weird style and definitely a little awkward. I don’t think he’s going to be able to adapt and make the adjustments he’ll need against me. I’ll be expecting a lot of wide shots from him.”

A native of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Valenzuela now trains in Seattle, Washington, where he is trained by Jose Benavidez Sr. alongside Jose’s sons, unbeaten two-time world champion David Benavidez and longtime contender Jose Benavidez Jr. Valenzuela has worked with the Benavidez family for the last four years, soaking up the knowledge from an accomplished boxing family.

“It’s a great experience working with the Benavidez family,” said Valenzuela. “They always push me extremely hard and they really believe that we don’t have any limits. David is also a fast-paced fighter and I think that comes from the type of training we do.”

In a stacked lightweight division with numerous big-name champions and contenders, Valenzuela knows that he has to take advantage of every opportunity he receives. That knowledge is motivating him to make sure he looks impressive on September 18.

“I have to show everybody that Berrio is nowhere near my level,” said Valenzuela. “I can’t just win. I have to win in tremendous fashion. A knockout would be great, but the most important thing is to dominate and look-good winning.”

Saturday’s show will be followed on Sunday, September 19 with another night of FS1 PBC Fight Night action also taking place at Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, California. Sunday’s telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and is headlined by undefeated super featherweight prospect Maliek Montgomery facing Aleem Jumakhonov in a 10-round bout.

Tickets for the live events, which are promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and available at AXS.com.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.




MIKEY GARCIA RETURNS AGAINST SANDOR MARTIN ON OCT 16

Mikey Garcia returns to action on October 16 as he takes on Sandor Martin at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, California, topping a stacked bill featuring two Light-Flyweight World title bouts, live worldwide on DAZN.
**TICKETS ON SALE TOMORROW (SEPTEMBER 17) FROM 11AM (PT) AT TICKETS.COM**
Former four-weight World ruler Garcia (40-1 30 KOs) last stepped through the ropes in February 2020, flooring Jessie Vargas at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, en-route to a points win over his fellow Mexican-American. The 33 year old is plotting a route towards more World title glory, and the Californian fan favorite plans to put on a show at the home of the Fresno Grizzlies.

“I’m very excited to get back in the ring and give my fans another night to remember,” said Garcia. “I’m looking forward to seeing everyone on October 16 in Fresno – it’s going to be a great night of boxing.”

Martin (38-2 13 KOs) has form and activity in his favor as he makes his American debut in the biggest fight of his career. The Spaniard recorded a wide decision win over Kay Prospere in the second defense of his European Super-Lightweight in April in his Barcelona backyard, and the 28 year old will be leaving everything in the ring on what he believes is potentially a life-changing night.

“I’m so excited for this opportunity,” said Martin. “The sport of boxing brings me the chance to change my life. There will be a before and after for everyone in this fight.”

A stacked undercard in support of the main event is led by two World Light-Flyweight title fights as WBO king Elwin Soto puts his crown on the line against Jonathan Gonzalez and WBA champion Esteban Bermudez defends his strap against Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez.

Soto (19-1 13 KOs) entertained a packed crowd at AT&T Stadium on Cinco de Mayo weekend, stopping Katsunari Takayama in the ninth round of their clash on the undercard of Soto’s fellow Mexican star Canelo Alvarez’s clash with Billy Joe Saunders. That was a third successful defense for the 25 year old and the first inside the distance of the belt he ripped from Angel Acosta with a dramatic final round KO over the Puerto Rican in June 2019, and he makes his fourth defense on October 16 against Gonzalez in a bout in association with Zanfer Promotions.

It’s another Puerto Rican foe in Soto’s way in Fresno in the shape of mandatory challenger Gonzalez (22-3-1 13 KOs). The 30 year old is in his second World title tilt having travelled to Japan in August 2019 to face WBO Flyweight king Kosei Tanaka and the successful amateur landed the WBO NABO belt at Light-Fly in February 2020 and defended it with a fourth round KO of Armando Torres in May to land his mandatory status.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and defend my title,” said Soto. “Texas was a great night and I think this will be too. Gonzalez is a proud Puerto Rican contender, and we all know that when Mexico and Puerto Rico step through the ropes, there are fireworks, so the fans are going to love this fight.

“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for a long time,” said Gonzalez. “Soto’s style fits me perfectly. It will be a war of Puerto Rico vs. Mexico.”

Bermudez (14-3-2 10 KOs) ripped the WBA strap from Carlos Canizales in May, stopping the defending champion in Mexico City inside six rounds in what was the Mexican’s first World title fight. The 25 year old faces a formidable test in the first defense of his crown against rising Texas talent Rodriguez.

Rodriguez (13-0 9 KOs) is one of American boxing’s bright young stars, and the 21 year old Texan gets his first World title shot in Fresno. Trained by Robert Garcia, Rodriguez will be aiming to emulate his WBA World Super-Flyweight champion brother Joshua Franco and bring more hardware back to San Antonio.

“This is going to be a great fight,” said Bermudez. “Jesse is a really talented fighter, and I am sure that he will be in great shape and ready to rock on October 16, but I worked too hard to become World champion to let it go in my first defense, so this will be a war.”

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for my whole life,” said Rodriguez. “First of all, I want to thank everybody at Matchroom, Robert and Mikey Garcia, Mr. Honda, my father and everybody at RGBA for supporting me since day one. I also want to thank Bermudez for giving me the opportunity to fight for his title.

“I know it won’t be an easy fight, but I plan on walking out of the ring October 16 as the new World champion and bring the title home to San Antonio. It will be an honor for me and my brother Joshua to be World champions at the same time. I am training very hard and promise I won’t disappoint anybody.”

“I am really looking forward to getting back to the States with a cracking card in Fresno,” said promoter EddieHearn. “It’s great to see Mikey back in the ring, a future hall of fame star that always makes for entertaining fights and is hunting his next World title target – but this is a massive opportunity for Sandor and one that he will be desperate to take with both hands.

“We have two fantastic World title fights in the always exciting Light-Flyweight division with WBO champion Elwin Soto and WBA champion Esteban Bermudez putting their belts on the line against Jonathan Gonzalez and Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez respectively – Fresno fight fans are in for a real treat on October 16.”

“It’s an honor to work with Matchroom and Mikey Garcia on this night,” said promoter Rick Mirigian, who is working with Matchroom on the event. “October 16 will be a night no-one will forget here in Fresno; I promise you that.”

Further undercard fights will be announced before tomorrows on sale launch.




DAZN and Matchroom announce more global additions to growing fall fight schedule

DAZN and Matchroom have announced three premium fights nights to add to an ever-increasing fall fight schedule, live and worldwide on DAZN:October 16: Former four-weight world ruler Mikey Garcia returns to action against European Super-Lightweight Champion Sandor Martin at Chukchansi Park in Fresno, CA.October 30: WBC Interim Heavyweight World Champion Dillian Whyte faces Swedish fighter Otto Wallin, live from The O2 in London and worldwide on DAZN.December 18: Heavyweights Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora rematch in another epic clash at the AO Arena in Manchester, live worldwide on DAZN (except New Zealand and Samoa).First, four-weight king Mikey Garcia (40-1, 30 KOs) is back in action on Saturday October 16 at Chukchansi Park in Frenso, CA as he tackles European Super-Lightweight Champion Sandor Martin (38-2, 13 KOs). Garcia steps through the ropes for the first time since defeating Jessie Vargas in Frisco, TX in February 2020 and the California man welcomes Spaniard Martin to his home state, with Martin coming into the fight on the back of two successful defences of his European 140lbs strap. Garcia-Martin will be live worldwide on DAZN and tops a stacked card featuring World Title action and hot prospects to be announced shortly.
 
Two weeks later, ‘The Body Snatcher’ Dillian Whyte (28-2, 19 KOs) returns to the ring on Saturday, October 30, at The O2 in London, facing off against Swedish Heavyweight Otto Wallin (21-1-0-1, 14 KOs). The Brixton native avenged his previous defeat with a statement round 4 TKO against veteran Alexander Povetkin and reclaimed the WBC Interim Heavyweight Title. Wallin continues his good form coming into the fight, having beaten Dominic Breazeale and Travis Kauffman after a unanimous decision loss against two-time World Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury. The event will be live worldwide on DAZN.
 
And, on Saturday, December 18, Joseph Parker (29-2, 21 KOs) faces off against the mercurial Brit Derek Chisora (32-11, 23 KOs) in a rematch of their 12-round war in May 2021. Parker, the former WBO Heavyweight Champion, has tallied five straight wins since losing against Dillian Whyte for the WBO International Heavyweight Title. Derek ‘WAR’ Chisora is looking to bounce back after losing by split decision against Parker and by unanimous decision against Oleksandr Usyk in October 2020. The event will be live worldwide on DAZN (with the exception of New Zealand and Samoa).

Full card details will be released soon. 

Ed Breeze, EVP Rights at DAZN, commented: “These three excellent fights are a testament to the great partnership that continues to flourish with Matchroom globally. Our schedule for the rest of the year is shaping up nicely and filled with World Champions, grizzled veterans, and exciting up-and-coming talent. We look forward to continuing to unveil more blockbuster fight nights as part of our ongoing commitment to deliver value to boxing fans worldwide.”

Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn said: “Matchroom and DAZN’s stacked upcoming schedule just got even better with these three blockbuster additions. First up on October 16 four-weight king Mikey Garcia returns to action in a difficult assignment against Barcelona’s European Super-Lightweight Champion Sandor Martin in Fresno, CA. ‘The Body Snatcher’ Dillian Whyte returns home to The O2 on October 30 to put his Interim WBC Heavyweight World Title against Otto Wallin – the man that came so close to inflicting a loss on Tyson Fury. Then on December 18 Joseph Parker and Derek Chisora go to war again at Manchester Arena. Catch it all live and exclusively around the world on DAZN.”

Other major matchups this fall on DAZN include live boxing making its return to Italy on October 1 as local star Daniele Scardina continues his hunt for a World Title fight when he takes on Juergen Doberstein for the WBO Intercontinental Super-Middleweight Title in Milan. And, on October 9, the south of Liverpool takes on the north as Liam Smith faces off against fellow Liverpudlian Anthony Fowler in a hugely competitive domestic fight, live from the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool.
 
DAZN is available for £7.99 / €7.99 per month. Existing UK & Ireland subscribers will be moved to £7.99 / €7.99 pm from September 30th. This not only covers dozens of fight nights annually (subject to availability), including premium events from Matchroom UK, USA, Italy, and Spain as well as Golden Boy, plus The DAZN Boxing Show – the only daily boxing show and go-to boxing news source available to fight fanatics worldwide, including on-the-ground and behind-the-scenes coverage throughout AJ vs. Usyk fight week. There’s also a growing line-up of original programming such as Ronaldo: El Presidente, La Guerra Civil, Canelo: The Greatest Athlete You’ve Never Seen, Club Ibiza, as well as a new original series to be announced shortly. Full details are available on DAZN News




UNBEATEN 122-POUND WORLD CHAMPIONS BRANDON FIGUEROA AND STEPHEN FULTON NOW SET TO MEET IN HIGHLY ANTICIPATED UNIFICATION FIGHT ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27

LAS VEGAS – September 16, 2021 – Undefeated 122-pound world champions are set for a unification clash as WBC champion Brandon “Heartbreaker” Figueroa and WBO champion Stephen “Cool Boy Steph” Fulton Jr. will battle in the SHOWTIME main event Saturday, November 27 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Park Theater at Park MGM in Las Vegas.

Figueroa and Fulton were originally scheduled to face each other on Saturday, September 18, before the fight was pushed back due to a positive COVID-19 test for Figueroa.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast will begin at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and also features undefeated super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem battling Mexico’s Eduardo Baez in the 10-round co-main event. Opening the telecast, unbeaten rising bantamweight contender Gary Antonio Russell takes on Mexico’s Alejandro Barrios in a 10-round showdown. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions.

Previously purchased tickets will be honored for the rescheduled date with no action needed. Should the guest not be able to attend, a refund for the tickets can be requested through October 17, 2021. Once the refund window is closed, all sales are final.

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




BRIEDIS RETURNS TO ARENA RIGA ON OCTOBER 16 TO DEFEND IBF WORLD TITLE AGAINST MANN

Mairis Briedis (27-1, 19 KOs) returns to the Arena Riga in Latvia on October 16 to defend his IBF World Cruiserweight Title against former World Title challenger Artur Mann (17-1, 9 KOs).
 
The Latvian boxing star cemented his position as the number one Cruiserweight in world when defeating Yuniel Dorticos in the final of the World Boxing Super Series in September 2020. A fight that saw the 36-year-old claim both the IBF World Title and the prestigious Ring Magazine belt as well as the iconic Muhmmad Ali Trophy.
 
Briedis, who is now a three-time world champion having previously held WBC and WBO World Titles and considered one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world, will get the chance to return to his hometown arena and box in front of his passionate supporters for the first time since his third-round stoppage win over Krzysztof Glowacki in June 2019.
 
However, Briedis, who was named ‘Rigan of the Year’ for 2020, can expect a tough challenge when he makes the first defence of his IBF belt against Germany’s Artur Mann, a former WBO International Champion and IBO World Cruiserweight Title challenger.
 
Mann defeated countryman Leon Harth to capture the WBO International Title in July 2017 and remained undefeated until he travelled to South Africa to challenge Kevin Lerena for the IBO World Title in March 2019. Since his sole defeat, the 30-year-old ‘Thunderman’ from Hannover has recorded back-to-back wins to set up a World Title showdown with Briedis.
 
“It’s crazy to think it has been over two years since I last fought in Riga,” said Briedis. “I think I have already forgotten that fantastic feeling that Latvian boxing fans deliver each time and I can’t wait to step in the ring again in front of my home crowd. It will also be a special night for me as it will be my first IBF Title defence and I’m happy I will be able to do it at the Arena Riga.
 
“My opponent Artur Mann is a very experienced boxer who was previously part of the Sauerland stable which is already a quality measurement for him as there are no weak boxers invited to join that group. He is a very technical boxer coming from the Kazakh boxing school that is considered by many to be one of the best in the world.
 
“Together with my team, we are taking this fight very seriously. Defending a World Championship belt doesn’t allow you to do anything less. We have already started our preparations and will do everything to be ready for the fight.”
 
“I’m very happy to fight for the IBF title against Mairis Briedis, the number one Cruiserweight in the world,” said Mann. “I want to thank my manager Daniel Todorovic and the whole O1NE Sport Crew, and of course, Kalle Sauerland and Wasserman Boxing for this great opportunity. I’m pumped and ready for Riga!
 
“I have a lot of respect for Mairis Briedis and his achievements but I don’t feel any pressure. Prior to my fight against Kevin Lerena, I felt a lot of pressure because a lot of things didn’t work out as they were supposed to, but this time, I’m super relaxed. All the pressure is on Mairis because he’s the world champ and he’s fighting at home in front of his people, which doesn’t always turn out to be an advantage. He’s got everything to lose and I’ve got everything to win!”
 
“We’re delighted to be promoting our first event with Mairis Briedis, one of boxing’s pound-for-pound stars, at the Arena Riga under the Wasserman Boxing banner,” said promoter Kalle Sauerland. “We would like to thank the IBF for their support. Mairis was due to fight a mandatory challenger but after negotiations broke down we have applied for special exception to make this fight possible.
 
“I’ve been lucky enough to witness Mairis fighting in Riga before and the atmosphere is incredible. I can’t wait to hear the noise when he steps into the ring on October 16. Coming to spoil the party is Artur Mann. A tough German contender looking to dethrone Latvia’s boxing king. This is an event you don’t want to miss. Get ready for the Rumble In Riga!”
 
Tickets for the IBF World Cruiserweight Championship contest between Mairis Briedis and Artur Mann go on sale tomorrow at 12:00 (EEST). Tickets start from €29 and are available to purchase via https://www.bilesuserviss.lv




RJJ BOXING OFFICIAL WEIGHTS FROM CALIFORNIA

MONTEBELLO, Calif. (September 15, 2021) — All fighters made weight today for tomorrow night’s RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®, presented by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing in association with World Cup Boxing Series and 360 Promotions, at Quiet Cannon Event Center in Montebello, California.

“Hollywood Fight Nights” will stream live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

Fighters’ weights below:


OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (10)*

Serhi Bohachuk (19-1, 19 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Ukraine 158.2 lbs.

Raphael Igbokwe (16-2, 7 KOs), Houston, TX 156.8 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – LIGHT HEAVYEIGHTS (10)*

Ali Akhmedov (16-1, 12 KOs), Henderson, NV by way of Kazakhstan 170 lbs.

David Zegarra (34-5, 21 KOs), Mexico City, Mexico by way of Peru 173.4 lbs.

CRUISERWEIGHTS (6)*

Rafawel Simonyan (9-1 (8 KOs), Vanadzor, Armenia 195.6 lbs.

Adrian Taylor (11-1, 4 KOs), Dallas, TX 197.6 lbs.

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)*

Adrian Corona (7-0, 1 KO), Rialto, CA 131.4 lbs.

Daniel Robles (7-0, 5 KOs), Oxnard, CA 130.6 lbs.

FEMALE LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)*

Elvina White (5-0, 2 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Austria 134.8 lbs.

Chelsey Anderson (3-0, 1 KO), Yorba Linda, CA 134.8 lbs.

(card subject to change)

*denotes streaming live on UFC FIGHT PASS


INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufcfightpass.com

Facebook: /UFCFightPass, /KeithVeltre

Twitter: @UFCFightPass, @Keith_Veltre, @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a massive impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in many of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

Based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable.

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than two hundred countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.




Puerto Rico’s Luis Rodriguez to Fight Sunday Night in Atlanta!

September 15, 2021, Miami, Florida — Luis Rodriguez, (4-0, 4 KOs) from Toa Alta, Puerto Rico, coming off his 4th consecutive knockout win in four professional fights, fights this Sunday, September 19, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Rodriguez will battle former MMA fighter and Pennsylvanian Malon “Maximus” Griffin.

Rodriguez’ made his pro debut on June 11 and his knockouts have come in rounds 2, 1, 4, 1 respectively.

As an amateur star in Puerto Rico, the 24-year-old Rodriguez amassed a record of 78 wins and was a five time Puerto Rico National Champion. He then decided to bypass the Tokyo Olympics to turn pro instead and won by a phenomenal knockout in his debut.

Luis and his team, renowned boxing attorney Tony Gonzalez, and his promoter, Rivalta Boxing, followed up his pro debut with bouts on June 26, July 3 and August 20.

“The fast track start to Luis’ career is owed to his own work ethic and that of his team. We have all made a commitment to making a mark in boxing and the only way to back that up is by him being in the ring, honing and developing his God-given talent,” said Gonzalez. “More importantly is the fact that Luis has bought into the fast pace philosophy and is all business.”

Luis is scheduled for 6 rounds and will go ahead and start 8 round fights shortly thereafter. “Also we are looking for a step up fight very soon, and realistically looking at a potential regional title fight before the end of November.”

The fight card dubbed “The Night of Champions” takes place at Revel Atlanta. Doors open at 6 pm and the First Bell is at 7 pm ET.

It is promoted by Boswell Promotions and Judy Starkey. For Tickets and Live Stream information, click https://www.boswellpromotions.com/




Promoter Derek Gionta Building Pittsburgh boxing

PITTSBURGH (September 15, 2021) – Local promoter Derek Gionta is on a mission to help bring Pittsburgh boxing back to close to its past glory days, in which great fighters were developed there such as Hall of Famers Harry “The Pittsburgh Windmill” Greb and Billy “The Pittsburgh Kid” Conn, as well as world champions Michael Moore and more recently Paul Spadafora.

“Pittsburgh can certainly get back to being a true boxing town,” Gionta believes. “We have already seen a recent revival in the sport here. The key is to have enough shows to keep fighters busy so they can develop and eventually move on to a bigger stage. Maybe some of the bigger events can take place here as enough fighters develop?

“I’d like to remain active promoting shows here and in neighboring cities with some people that we already have good relationships with. I want to continue building up fighters here!”

Gionta is bringing professional and amateur boxing back to the Greater Pittsburgh area this Saturday night as Gionta Management presents “Murrysville Madness” at Murrysville SportZone in Murrysville, Pennsylvania.

Pittsburgh junior lightweight Matt “Sweet Child” Conway (19-2, 8 KOs), the reigning IBA Intercontinental Junior Lightweight Champion, will headline “Murrysville Madness” in the 6-round, non-title fight main event against dangerous Colombian puncher Rodolfo “El Tsunami” Puente (20-7-2, 16 KOs).

Pittsburgh super middleweight Kiante Irving (9-0, 9 KOs), a 2018 National Golden Gloves Champion, meets Antonio Louis Hernandez (5-11-3, 3 KOs) In the 6-round co-featured event.

INFORMATION:

Facebook: /DerekGionta

Twitter: @DGionta

Instagram: @d_p_g1

LinkedIn: DerekGionta-GiontaManagement




BROTHERS ANATOLY AND VLADIMIR TOKOV SET FOR ACTION AT BELLATOR MMA 269 ON OCT. 23 INSIDE MOSCOW’S VTB ARENA

LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA’s first-ever card in Russia continues to grow with today’s announcement of several new fights including the return of middleweight standout Anatoly Tokov (29-2), who returns for the first time since 2019 to take on Sharaf Davlatmurodov (18-3-1) during the main card of BELLATOR MMA 269: Fedor vs. Johnson. The new booking brings the main card to five must-see bouts for the card which emanates from Moscow’s VTB Arena on Saturday, Oct. 23.

Tickets for the highly anticipated event are on sale now and can be purchased at Kassir.ru. Additional matchups and SHOWTIME telecast details will be revealed soon.

During the preliminary portion of the event, Anatoly’s younger brother Vladimir Tokov (7-1) will compete at lightweight against France’s Aymard “Barakuda” Guih (15-11-1). Three additional prelims are also official, Aiden Lee (9-5) meets Alexander Osetrov (8-2-1) at featherweight, Gadzi Rabadanov (16-4-1) faces Alexander Belikh (9-4) at 145-pounds, and Darina Mazdyuk (4-1) makes her promotional debut against Poland’s Katarzyna Sadura (4-4) at flyweight.

Updated BELLATOR MMA 269: Emelianenko vs. Johnson Card:

Heavyweight Main Event: Fedor Emelianenko (39-6, 1 NC) vs. #2-Tim Johnson (15-7)

Heavyweight Co-Main Event: Vitaly Minakov (22-1) vs. #8-Said Sowma (7-2)

160-Pound Contract Weight Bout: #6-Usman Nurmagomedov (13-0) vs. Patrik Pietila (11-8)

Middleweight Bout: Anatoly Tokov (29-2) vs. Sharaf Davlatmurodov (18-3-1)

Welterweight Bout: #8-Andrey Koreshkov (24-4) vs. Rustam Khabilov (24-4)

PreliminaryCard:

Featherweight Bout: Gadzi Rabadanov (16-4-1) vs. Alexander Belikh (9-4)

Featherweight Bout: Aiden Lee (9-5) vs. Alexander Osetrov (8-2-1)

Welterweight Bout: Alexey Shurkevich (12-4) vs. Christian Eckerlin (13-5)

Welterweight Bout: #9-Grachik Bozinyan (11-4) vs. Ross Houston (8-1, 1 NC)

Bantamweight Bout: Brian Moore (14-7) vs. Nikita Mikhailov (7-1)

Flyweight Bout: Irina Alekseeva (3-1) vs. Stephanie Ielo Page (5-2)

Flyweight Bout: Darina Mazdyuk (4-1) vs. Katarzyna Sadura (4-4)

Lightweight Bout: Vladimir Tokov (7-1) vs. Aymard Guih (15-11-1)

Updated schedule of BELLATOR events

Sat. Sept. 18 // BELLATOR 266: Davis vs. Romero //SAP Center // San Jose, CA

Fri. Oct. 1 // BELLATOR 267: Lima vs. MVP 2 //The SSE Arena, Wembley // London, England

Sat. Oct. 16 // BELLATOR 268: Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Semifinals // Footprint Center // Phoenix, AZ

Sat. Oct. 23 // BELLATOR 269: Fedor vs. Johnson // VTB Arena // Moscow, Russia

Fri. Nov. 5 // BELLATOR 270: Gallagher vs. Mix // 3Arena // Dublin, Ireland

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*Card subject to change.

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

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About BELLATOR

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

About SHOWTIME

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




OMAR JUAREZ TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

BAKERSFIELD, CA. (September 15, 2021) – Exciting super lightweight Omar “El Relámpago” Juárez will return to action against Mexico’s Jairo Lopez in FS1 PBC Fight Night action and on FOX Deportes this Sunday, September 19 from Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, California.

The FS1 telecast on Sunday begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and is headlined by undefeated super featherweight prospect Maliek Montgomery facing Aleem Jumakhonov in a 10-round bout.

Sunday’s lineup follows FS1 PBC Fight Night taking place on Saturday, September 18, also at Mechanics Bank Arena in Bakersfield, California, which begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and which features rising lightweight prospect Jose Valenzuela putting his unbeaten record on the line against Colombia’s Deiner Berrio in the 10-round main event.

Tickets for the live events, which are promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and available at AXS.com.

Here is what Juarez had to say about training camp, bouncing back from his first pro loss and more:

On his recent training camp:
“For this camp I headed out to Las Vegas to get elite sparring with some of the best fighters in the sport. I felt I needed to make a change with my conditioning as well. I spent a lot of time running in high elevation up at Mt. Charleston. It was a great experience holding camp in Vegas and I know I’ll be better prepared going into this fight as opposed to my last one.”

On his matchup with Jairo López:
“López is a very durable opponent who has been in the ring with a lot of good fighters. I’m expecting the best version of himself, because everyone has been training hard during the pandemic. I’m going to set the pace and fight my fight.”

On what a win will do for his career:
“I’m coming off my first defeat as a professional and I’m eager to get back in the win column. I had to do a lot of soul searching but I’m confident that I can rebound with a spectacular performance. A nice win against a tough guy like López will put me back on track to bigger fights”

On fighting on FS1:
“Fighting on FS1 is a true blessing and something I don’t take for granted. Not many fighters are able to showcase their talent on a major platform, so I’m grateful for my team and everyone who continues to believe in me. I’m ready to put on a great show for the fans.”

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.




Miguel “El Explosivo” Madueño Wants Everyone at Lightweight After KO of Fredrickson

HOLLYWOOD, FL (September 15, 2021) – Last night, Thompson Boxing’s unbeaten super lightweight knockout artist, Miguel “El Explosivo” Madueño (25-0, 23 KOs, entertained fans with a tenth round TKO over the always tough Sonny Fredrickson (21-4, 14 KOs). The ten round bout was part of TrillerVerz II at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida, streamed worldwide on FITE.TV.

Madueño, who came out aggressive since the bell went off, put forth a sequence of action-packed rounds that made the experienced Fredrickson rethink his strategy. After some back and forth rounds Madueño lived up to his nickname and was able to get the stoppage in the tenth and final round at the 2:04 mark. With the win, Madueño is calling out everyone at lightweight.

“I want to thank everyone who believes in me and all the fans who enjoyed my fight,” said Madueño after the win. “This was the type of victory I needed to make a statement and get closer towards a world title. Moving forward, I’ll be campaigning at lightweight and I want to fight all the big names in that division, I don’t care who it is. No one will be able to handle my power. I’ll dominate anyone they put in front of me.”

“Madueño showed us that his power can be effective from the first round onto the last round,” said Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing’s general manager. ” Madueño fought a tough and gritty fight and showed the heart of a champion. We have high hopes for him moving forward and will discuss what is next for him. We believe he has what it takes to become a world champion.”

In a highly anticipated co-main event, Thompson Boxing’s Michael “The West Texas Warrior” Dutchover (15-2, 10 KOs), who is also co-promoted with Banner Promotions, lost via a sixth-round technical knockout when his trainer Danny Zamora called a halt to his bout against Philadelphia’s Nahir Albright (14-1, 7 KOs).

“I gave it my all, I am disappointed, but this is not the end for me, or my team,” said Dutchover. “I have no excuses, I felt great, it just wasn’t my night.”

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

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




CALUM FRENCH SIGNS WITH MATCHROOM BOXING

Calum French has signed a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and is set to make his highly anticipated professional debut in November. 
 
The former Team GB star from Gateshead, Tyne and Wear will begin life in the professional ranks campaigning at Super-Lightweight under the guidance of Graeme Rutherford alongside Cyrus Pattinson at the renowned Birtley Boxing Club in the North East. 
 
French, a European bronze medallist in 2017, enjoyed a stunning 35-fight winning streak stretching from 2012 until 2017 during a glittering amateur career in which he frequently medalled for Team GB and reached the semi-finals with the British Lionhearts in the World Series of Boxing in 2018. 
 
The talented 26-year-old was the country’s leading boxer at 60kgs and looked set for a place at the Tokyo Olympics until his weight class was taken away in 2019, forcing him to restart in a whole new division, competing against the likes of Luke McCormack and Thomas Hodgson. 
 
“I’m overwhelmed with the opportunity I’ve been given to be a Matchroom fighter, I grew up watching the Matchroom shows dreaming one day I’d be boxing on them,” said French. “Today is the day it’s manifested into reality. 
 
“I’ve done my apprenticeship at the highest-level representing Team GB and I hope that experience will serve me well going forward into the pro game. I want to thank Eddie Hearn for believing in me and giving me this opportunity and my advisor Charlie Sims at Huge Boxing for making it happen. Let’s have it!”
 
“I’m delighted to welcome Calum to the team,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “He has been an outstanding amateur for Team GB and will now get all the opportunities to achieve his goals in the professional code. I look forward to seeing Calum shine all over the world over the next few years live on DAZN.”
 
“I am delighted that Calum has signed with Matchroom Boxing, he is a super talent, capable of winning major titles as a professional and will no doubt headline huge boxing events in the North East,” said Charlie Sims, Professional Advisor at Huge Boxing. “Calum needed to be with a major broadcaster, and we feel he needed the opportunity to showcase himself on a global platform such as DAZN.”
 
You can follow Calum’s journey on Twitter: @calumfrench_ and Instagram: calumfrench_




PAIR OF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP REMATCHES HEADLINE UFC® 268 AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

Las Vegas – UFC® returns to the world famous Madison Square Garden with a compelling pair of world championship rematches. Headlining the event will be UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usmanas he looks to defend his title once again against heated rival and No. 1 ranked contender Colby Covington. The co-main event will see UFC women’s strawweight champion Rose Najamunas aim to make it two in a row against former champion and No. 1 ranked contender Zhang Weili.

UFC® 268: USMAN vs. COVINGTON 2 will take place Saturday, Nov. 6 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, N.Y. All bouts will be simulcast on ESPN+ in English and Spanish beginning at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT with the ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass prelims. The prelims will continue exclusively on ESPNews, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT followed by the ESPN+ Pay-Per-View main card that will kick off at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

UFC® 268: USMAN vs. COVINGTON 2 tickets will go on sale Friday, September 17 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, September 15 at 10 a.m. ET via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, September 16 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Usman (19-1, fighting out of Dallas, Texas by way of Auchi, Nigeria) intends to maintain his dominant reign over the welterweight division and make the case that he is the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world. Undefeated in the UFC, he is currently on the longest active win streak at 170 pounds with 14 victories in a row, including Jorge Masvidal (twice), Tyron Woodley and Rafael Dos Anjos. Usman now has his sights set on vanquishing Covington once and for all and continuing his quest to become the greatest welterweight of all time.

Former interim UFC welterweight champion Covington (15-2, fighting out of Miami, Fla.) seeks to finally clinch the undisputed title with a statement performance. One of the most prolific wrestlers in welterweight history, he has secured victories over former UFC champions Tyron Woodley, Robbie Lawler and Rafael Dos Anjos. Covington now looks to prove that he has what it takes to upset Usman and begin his championship legacy.

Fan favorite Namajunas (11-4, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) competes for the second time in a year for the first time since 2017 and aims to leave no doubt with another triumph over Zhang. Namajunas, the No. 3 ranked women’s pound-for-pound fighter, holds the strawweight record for most wins by stoppage, including victories over Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Michelle Waterson and Paige VanZant. She now plans to make her second run as champion a historic one and establish herself as the greatest strawweight of all time.

Zhang (21-2, fighting out of Beijing, China) intends to make the most of her title rematch opportunity and show that she is the best strawweight in the world. The first Chinese champion in UFC history, Zhang rose to prominence with notable victories Jessica Andrade and Jessica Aguilar, as well as her 2020 Fight of the Year against former champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk. She now hopes to deliver an awe-inspiring performance and begin building another impressive win streak.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • Lightweight knockout artists clash as No. 2 ranked contender Justin Gaethje (23-3, fighting out of Arvada, Colo.) locks horns with No. 4 ranked Michael Chandler (22-6, fighting out of Nashville, Tenn.)
  • No. 8 ranked middleweight contender Sean Strickland (24-3-1, fighting out of Corona, Calif.) looks to spoil the return of former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold (16-5, fighting out of Santa Cruz, Calif.)
  • Former UFC lightweight champion and No. 8 ranked bantamweight contender Frankie Edgar (23-9-1, fighting out of Toms River, N.J.) intends to put on a show when he faces No. 13 ranked Marlon Vera (17-7-1, fighting out of Chone, Manabi, Ecuador)
  • In a thrilling featherweight bout, No. 14 ranked contender Shane Burgos (13-3, fighting out of Monroe, N.Y.) seeks to defend his spot in the rankings against rising prospects Billy Quarantillo (16-3, fighting out of Tampa, Fla.)
  • Exciting middleweight prospects clash as No. 11 ranked contender Edmen Shahbazyan (11-2, fighting out of Glendale, Calif.) meets Nassourdine Imavov (10-3, fighting out of Paris, France)
  • Aleksa Camur (6-2, fighting out of Broadview, Heights, Ohio) matches up with John Allan (13-6, 1 NC, fighting out of Curitiba, State of Parana, Brazil) in a light heavyweight contest of Dana White Contender Series alums
  • Fan favorite Al Iaquinta (14-6-1, fighting out of Wantagh, N.Y.) returns to action against exciting striker Bobby Green (27-12-1, fighting out of Fontana, Calif.)
  • Kickboxing standout Alex Pereira (3-1, fighting out of São Paulo, Brazil) makes his highlight anticipated UFC debut against Andreas Michailidis (13-4, fighting out of Acharnes, Greece)
  • Dana White’s Contender Series signees battle as Melsik Baghdasaryan (6-1, fighting out of Los Angeles, Calif.) takes on TJ Laramie (12-4, fighting out of Windsor, Ontario, Canada)
  • Top welterweight prospect Ian Garry (7-0, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland) plans for a spectacular UFC debut against Jordan Williams (9-5, 1 NC, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.)

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.




Shearns Boxing taking care of unfinished business First pro boxing show ever in Framingham, Mass.

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (September 14, 2021) — Nineteen months after it was originally scheduled, “Fight Night in Framingham” finally will be presented October 16 by Shearns Boxing Promotions for the benefit of “Fighting Life” at Sheraton Hotel in Framingham, Massachusetts.

Canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions, “Fight Night in Framingham” will mark the first professional boxing event ever held in Framingham, a city incorporated in 1700, located in the MetroWest subregion of Greater Boston, less than 40 miles from Boston.

“Fighting Life” is an after-school youth boxing program and academic empowerment program, available 100-percentfree of charge to students beginning in elementary school through high school education.

High Octane Classics is the presenting sponsor. Other sponsors include Platts Landscaping and Shamrock Sports.

“We had to cancel this show last year just a week before the event,” promoter Chuck Shearns explained. “A lot of people had put in a lot of work for the event, so it was disappointing for many, especially fighters. When events were allowed again in Massachusetts, we wanted to finish what we started in Framingham. Although still in uncertain times, we waited just a bit hoping that it would lessen the possibility of another cancellation. We are feeling confident that this will be the great event that we started last year.”

Shearns is excited about promoting the first boxing event in Framingham history, as well as working in association with Fighting Life.

“Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP) is very excited, and we look forward to putting on Framingham’s first-ever boxing event for a great charity, Fighting Life,” Shearns added. “I think what speaks loudest is the amount of community and business support Fighting Life has received. I think it says a lot about what (Fighting Life founder/head coach) and the board are trying to accomplish with this organization. This kind of support will go a long way.”

Located in UpperKuts Boxing Club in nearby Ashland, MA, the Fighting Life Boxing Program was founded as a resource and program to provide children with a positive outlet in life. Visit www.fightlif.org to learn more about this organization.

The purpose of Fighting Life is to provide a safe space to promote structure, growth mindset, self-worth, and goal setting through physical and academic fulfillment and self-discipline.

“It is an outlet for kids,” Thomas said. “Kids who have been picked on. Bullied, or at risk find it’s a safe haven. We take kids from all walks of life. We don’t turn anybody away. If their parents can’t afford the membership fee to join the gym, we provide a voucher to apply to waive the fee. Not all of these kids come here to become boxers. We have fitness classes in addition to teaching boxing lessons.

“This show is important because the attention and money we receive will help us get more volunteers, equipment, and go places to box that we’ve never been. Any money we receive will go straight to the kids. Our dream is to promote our own shows someday and get our charity’s name out there for the benefit of our programs. Boxing is growing here in Framingham, and we believe that here will be more boxing in our city. I even check on the kids in school and if they need help, they’ll have a big brother right next to them. Everything is for the kids!”

Undefeated Florida-based junior middleweight Josniel “TG” Castro (5-0, 3 KOs) will headline “Fight Night in Framingham” in a 6-round bout versus 57-fight veteran Rynell Griffin, of Las Vegas. Castro has been active, something few boxers have been able to do during the pandemic, as this will be his fourth fight of 2021.

The co-featured event features a “graduate” of Fighting Life, Marlboro, MA super lightweight Nelson “Chino” Perez (3-0, 2 KOs), who will fight Ryan Venable (2-6) in a 6-round bout. Puerto Rico-native Perez is a past New England Golden Gloves champion.

Perez hasn’t forgotten where he comes from. He trains at UpperKuts and often teaches youngsters there how to train to become boxers. “I try to teach the kids to stay out of trouble,” Perez remarked. “I coach them a little to help them live and prosper. It’s great seeing these kids in the gym. I’m very excited to be part of this event to benefit Fighting Life.”

Hometown favorite Kevin Lewis will make his professional debut in a 4-rounder against a fellow Framingham resident, super middleweight Saul “The Spider” Almeida (0-14-4), one of the top MMA fighters in New England.

A pair of New Haven (CT) fighters will also be in action. Three-time New England Golden Gloves champion, super middleweight Elvis Figueroa (7-0, 4 KOs), and 4-time New England Golden Gloves champion, pro-debuting featherweight Felix Parilla, will fight in 6 and 4-round bouts, respectively, versus opponents to be determined.

Also fighting on the undercard in 4-round bouts is Boston heavyweight Wallace Nass Silva (0-2) and pro-debuting Sean Evans, fighting out of Shrewsbury, MA. Brazilian middleweight Leonardo Ladeira (0-6), of Revere (MA), will fight TBAs.

Priced at $75.00 ringside and $60.00 general admission, tickets are available to purchase online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fight-night-in-framingham-tickets-171408807357, at UpperKuts gym, or from any of the local fighters on the card.

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

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/ShearnsBoxingPromotions

Twitter: @ShearnsBoxing




QUEENSBERRY ANNOUNCE BIRMINGHAM THRILLER

BRAD FOSTER will face Jason Cunningham for the British, Commonwealth and European Super-Bantamweight championships at Utilita Arena, Birmingham on Saturday October 9.

Their eagerly awaited battle heads a high quality evening of action that includes another British and Commonwealth showdown, plus the return of World ranked Callum Johnson.

British and Commonwealth champion Foster’s promoters Queensberry won the purse bids when they were ordered for his showdown against European title holder Cunningham (29-6, 6KOs).

The fight had been scheduled to take place last month, but Foster suffered an injury forcing a short postponement.

Foster (14-0-2, 5 KOs) lives close to the venue and Frank Warren is backing his home support to roar him on.

The Hall of Fame promoter said: “It is one of the most evenly matched fights anywhere this year, but we want to give Brad every advantage so we have gone to an arena close to his home.

“The bill is well-matched and although everyone has waited a little longer than we expected for Foster v Cunningham it will be worth the wait.

“I expected Brad to be facing Gamal Yafai, but Jason was exceptional when he beat him. Brad has been in fantastic form since he signed with Queensberry and it’s hard to believe he’s only 23.”

Doncaster southpaw Cunningham caused a huge upset when he snatched the European crown from Yafai in May, winning on points.

Foster last fought in March when he scored a shut out points win against Alvaro Rodriguez to claim the vacant IBF International belt.

Former World Light-Heavyweight title challenger, Johnson (19-1, 14 KOs) is likely to make a defence of his WBO Global belt.

Johnson lost a four round war in a IBF title challenge against Artur Beterbiev in October 2018, but is highly ranked by the IBF and WBO. Warren is confident of landing the Boston man another marquee contest.

In a Midlands derby Nottingham’s Ekow Essuman (15-0, 6 KOs) will make the first defence of his British and Commonwealth Welterweight crowns when he faces Kingswinford’s Danny Ball (10-0-1, 4 KOs).

Essuman impressed when he ended Chris Jenkins 28 month reign in July stopping the Welsh star in eight rounds.

Ball last boxed in March when he outpointed fellow unbeaten boxer Sam Gilley over ten rounds in a WBC International Silver title defence.

Liam Davies (10-0, 5 KOs) will return on the card after a recent victory in the same arena in August. Davies had been due to face Andrew Cain on the show, but illness means that bout will likely be postponed.

Also featured on the card will be Nick Ball, George Davey, Owen Cooper, Amaar Akbar, Tommy Collins and Macauley Owen.

Tickets will be on sale this week.




Featherweight Cowboys: Emanuel Navarrete to Defend World Title Against Joet Gonzalez October 15 at Pechanga Arena San Diego

SAN DIEGO (September 14, 2021) — Mexico’s fighting cowboy is ready to roll into San Diego. Two-division kingpin Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete will defend his WBO featherweight world title against mandatory challenger Joet Gonzalez on Friday, Oct. 15 at Pechanga Arena San Diego.

In the 10-round welterweight co-feature, San Diego native Giovani Santillan makes his first hometown appearance in more than seven years against Angel “Relampago” Ruiz, the southpaw windmill from Culiacán, Mexico.

Navarrete-Gonzalez and Santillan-Ruiz will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ starting at approximately 11:30 p.m. ET/8:30 p.m. PT. The undercard — also streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — will feature middleweight prospect Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (4-0, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder, undefeated 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado (13-0, 12 KOs) in an eight-rounder at junior welterweight, and an eight-round junior lightweight battle between rising Puerto Rican prospect Henry “Moncho” Lebron (13-0, 9 KOs) and noted spoiler Manuel Rey Rojas (21-5, 6 KOs).

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $55 go on sale Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased by visiting AXS.com.

“Emanuel Navarrete never disappoints, as he’s a true Mexican warrior who fights in a crowd-pleasing style,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Joet Gonzalez earned his position as the mandatory challenger, and he has everything it takes to give Navarrete a formidable challenge. I am also thrilled that Giovani Santillan will get an opportunity to fight in front of the hometown fans in an excellent fight against Angel Ruiz.”

Navarrete (34-1, 29 KOs) is 8-0 with six knockouts in world title fights, a busy championship run that began in December 2018 with his dominant decision over Isaac Dogboe to win the WBO junior featherweight world title. Following five title defenses in nine months, Navarrete moved up to featherweight and bested Ruben Villa by unanimous decision last October to win the WBO world title. He defended that title in April and knocked out Christopher Diaz in the 12th round. Gonzalez (24-1, 14 KOs) fell short in his first world title opportunity in October 2019, losing a decision to pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson. He returned last September and handed a one-sided beating to three-time world title challenger Miguel Marriaga to earn his WBO No. 1 ranking.

“I am focused on winning this fight and defending my world title for the second time. I know that Joet Gonzalez is a good fighter. I respect him and he is also my mandatory challenger, but I am the champion, and I will show him why. This belt isn’t going anywhere,” Navarrete said. “I hope that my Mexican fans will support me in San Diego, and my fans from Tijuana can also come to the fight. I will give them a great fight, and it will be a great victory for all my Mexican people.”

Gonzalez said, “I am excited and thankful to receive a second world title opportunity, this time against a great Mexican warrior like Navarrete. I know I have what it takes to become a world champion, and I will show the world that on Oct. 15. No disrespect to Navarrete, but this is my time.”

Santillan (27-0, 15 KOs), born and raised in San Diego, first picked up a pair of gloves at 8 years old and fought nearly 80 amateur bouts before turning pro in 2012 in Temecula, California. Santillan rose the ranks fighting mostly in Southern California, but he’s made only one pro appearance in his hometown, a 2014 TKO over Osenohan Vazquez. In June 2020, he survived a razor-thin majority decision against former lightweight world champion Antonio DeMarco. After a year-long layoff, he returned June 26 with a one-sided decision over Cecil McCalla. Ruiz (17-1, 12 KOs), a six-year pro, won the first 16 fights of his career before suffering a shocking second-round knockout loss to Javier Flores in October 2019. He came back in April 2021 and bullied the previously unbeaten Bobirzhan Mominov en route to an eight-round decision on a nationally televised card.

“As soon as I got the call, I was excited because this is something my dad and I talked about for a long time, being part of a big show in San Diego,” Santillan said. “Ruiz is a good fighter, a hungry guy, but I’m hungry as well. We actually sparred a few years back and did some rounds. It was good work. I can’t wait for Oct. 15. I’m going to perform for my family, my friends, and my city. This is an incredible opportunity.”

Lebron (13-0, 9 KOs), a southpaw who won Puerto Rican amateur national titles in 2015 and 2016 before turning pro, is coming off last August’s near-shutout decision over veteran Luis Porozo. One of his island nation’s most promising prospects, the 23-year-old has six knockouts in two rounds or less. Rojas (21-5, 6 KOs) has only been knocked out once as a pro and most recently won a one-sided decision over Tyler McCreary in June on a Top Rank card.

About ESPN+
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Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $6.99 a month (or $69.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).




RJJ BOXING FACT SHEET

WHAT: RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS

WHO: THE LINE-UP


MAIN EVENT – SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (10)*

Serhi “El Flaco” Bohachuk (19-1, 19 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Ukraine

vs.

Raphael “Trouble” Igbokwe (16-2, 7 KOs), Houston, TX

CO-FEATURE – SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (10)*

Ali Akhmedov (16-1, 12 KOs), Henderson, NV by way of Kazakhstan

vs,

David “La Pantera” Zegarra (34-5, 21 KOs), Mexico City, Mexico by way of Peru

CRUISERWEIGHTS (6)*

Rafawel “Bam” Simonyan (9-1 (8 KOs), Vanadzor, Armenia

vs.

Adrian “Monta-Ru” Taylor (11-1, 4 KOs), Dallas, TX

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)*

Adrian Corona (7-0, 1 KO), Rialto, CA

vs.

Daniel “Big Dawg” Robles (7-0, 5 KOs), Oxnard, CA

FEMALE LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)*

Elvina “Warrior” White (5-0, 2 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Austria

vs.

Chelsey “Mae” Anderson (3-0, 1 KO), Yorba Linda, CA

(card subject to change)

*denotes streaming live on UFC FIGHT PASS


WHERE: Quiet Cannon Event Center in Montebello, CA

WHEN: Thursday, September 16, 2021

PROMOTERS: Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing and 360 Promotions in association with World Cup Boxing Series

LIVE STREAM: Streaming live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT

To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

UFC FIGHT PASS ANNOUNCERS: Doug Fisher (blow-by-blow) and James “Smitty” Smith (color commentator)

RING ANNOUNCER: Joe Martinez

TICKETS: Limited tickets on sale for The VIP Boxing Experience ($100 preferred seating and $60.00 general admission) online at www.360Promotions.

OTHER: Doors open at 4:30 p.m. PT

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufcfightpass.com

Facebook: /UFCFightPass, /KeithVeltre

Twitter: @UFCFightPass, @Keith_Veltre, @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial

Instagram: @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a massive impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for UFC Fight Pass, CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in many of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

Based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable.

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than two hundred countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.




MEXICAN SUPERSTAR CANELO ÁLVAREZ AND UNBEATEN WORLD CHAMPION CALEB PLANT MEET FOR UNDISPUTED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6 LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW FROM MGM GRAND GARDEN ARENA IN LAS VEGAS

LAS VEGAS (September 14, 2021) – Mexican superstar and unified WBA/WBC/WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Canelo Álvarez and undefeated IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant will battle to crown an undisputed 168-pound world champion on Saturday, November 6 live on pay-per-view from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

A four-division champion regarded by many as the top pound-for-pound fighter in boxing, Álvarez faces off against a supremely skilled, undefeated world champion in Plant, who’s made three defenses of the title he won in January 2019. The winner will become the first undisputed super middleweight champion in the four-belt era.

Tickets for the live event go on sale tomorrow, Wednesday, September 15 at 10 a.m. PT, and can be purchased at AXS.com. The event is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions and sponsored by Hennessy, “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and Value.




TEOFIMO LOPEZ VS. GEORGE KAMBOSOS JR. / OCTOBER 4 AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN / TICKETS ON-SALE TOMORROW AT 12PM E

New York, NY (September 14, 2021) Continuing their extraordinary run of outstanding, once-in-a-lifetime events, TRILLER FIGHT CLUB has announced ‘THE TAKEOVER’ TEOFIMO LOPEZ, (16-0, 12 KOs), fighting out of Brooklyn, NY, will defend his UNDISPUTED Lightweight World Titles, (WBC, WBA, WBO, IBF) in the highly anticipated 12-round battle against Mandatory Challenger ‘FEROCIOUS’ GEORGE KAMBOSOS JR., (19-0, 10 KOs) of Sydney, Australia on Monday, October 4 in the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden and live on Pay-Per-View (8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT) with a FREEVIEW starting at 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT.

Presented in association with DiBella Entertainment, advance tickets priced at $306, $206, $106, $81 and $56, will go on-sale Tomorrow, Wednesday,  September 15 at 12:00 p.m. ET through MSG.com. The event will be broadcast live on Pay-Per-View priced at $49.99 available globally through FITE.TV  and on traditional cable/satellite via iNDemand.

Additional musical guests will also be announced for the full evening of entertainment. The entire event will be presented by NIGEL LYTHGOE, the Triller Fight Club visionary and producer.

Boxing fans will also be able to watch the fight on both streaming and TV PPV platforms. To order online/streaming, go to TRILLERFIGHTCLUB.com or FITE or any FITE OTT/Smart TV/mobile apps.

To watch on TV, viewers can order the event through every major cable, satellite, and telco provider in North America, including: Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, DIRECTV & U-Verse TV, Dish, Fios, and Optimum, among others (U.S.), as well as Rogers, Shaw, Sasktel, and TELUS (Canada). iNDemand, the leading transactional video-on-demand and PPV programming provider in North America, will serve as the exclusive U.S. and Canadian cable, satellite, and telco distributor.

The eagerly awaited clash between the two undefeated warriors, at the top of the year’s boxing schedule for international boxing fans, was originally scheduled for June 19, 2021 prior to Lopez testing positive for Covid-19 of which he has made a full recovery. Known for his stunning knockout power, Lopez is world ranked #5 pound-for-pound by ESPN and #7 by RING Magazine.

The 24-year-old Lopez was the recipient of the prestigious 2020 ‘Fighter of the Year’ award by both RING Magazine and the Boxing Association of America in addition to many other international sporting platforms. On October 17, 2020, Lopez defeated unified (WBA, WBO, IBF) junior lightweight world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko in Las Vegas, NV, completing the rare four-belt UNDISPUTED status, an esteemed historical honor only achieved by five other male boxers.

Truly feeling at home at THE Mecca, Lopez has fought six previous times at Madison Square Garden including his IBF world title knockout victory over Richard Commey on December 14, 2019.

A true sporting road warrior, the 28-year-old Kambosos Jr. earned his Mandatory Challenger status by traveling to London, United Kingdom on October 31, 2020 and soundly defeating hometown favorite Lee Selby over twelve rounds. Prior to that, Kambosos Jr., also fighting on December 14, 2019 at Madison Square Garden, was victorious in a dominant ten-round performance against former world champion Mickey Bey.

Known for his extended training camps with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, Kambosos is an Australian born fighter of Greek heritage. He is a huge star in both Greece and Australia drawing tens of thousands to each of his fights.

Headlining the undercard, DANIEL ‘El GALLO’ GONZALEZ, (20-2-1, 7 KOs), of Woodhaven, NY clashes with Brooklyn’s PETROS ANANYAN, (15-2-2, 7 KOs), in a scheduled 10-round junior welterweight bout.

Undefeated junior middleweight prospects hit the ring in a scheduled eight-rounder as JOSE ‘CHEITO’ ROMAN, (11-0, 5 KOS), of Bayamon, Puerto Rico faces CESAR ‘RAINMAN’ FRANCIS, (8-0, 6 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY.

Fighting in the junior welterweight division, WILL MADERA, (16-1-3, 9 KOs), of Albany, NY battles JAMSHIDBEK ‘THE CHAMPION’ NAJMITDINOV, (17-1, 14 KOs), of Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Popular local favorites also featured separately on the undercard include prospects ‘IRISH’ JOE WARD, (4-1, 2 KOs), in a six-round light heavyweight bout in addition to FREDERIC JULIAN, (12-0, 10 KOs), also in a scheduled six-round light heavyweight fight. Rounding out the card, newcomer HARLEY MEDEROS, (1-0, 1 KO), of Brooklyn, NY will see action in a four-round lightweight clash. Further details on these three fights will be announced shortly. 


Media Contacts

Double B Sports:

Bernie Bahrmasel: BernieBahrmasel@yahoo.com

Madison Square Garden:

Larry Torres: Larry.Torres@msg.com

iNDemand

Jenny Snegaroff, jsnegaroff@indemand.com

FITE:

Owen Phillips: Owen.Phillips@fite.tv

Social Media

Teofimo Lopez

Instagram: @teofimolopez

Twitter: @TeofimoLopez

Facebook:@Teofimo.Lopez

George Kambosos Jr.

Instagram: @georgekambososjr

Twitter: @georgekambosos

Facebook: @George.Kambosos

Triller Fight Club

Instagram: @Triller, @TrillerFightClub

Twitter: @Triller, @TrillerFight

Facebook: @TrillerFightClub

Website www.Triller.cowww.TrillerFightClub.com

Madison Square Garden, Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden

Instagram: @thegarden, @hulutheatermsg

Twitter: @TheGarden, @HuluTheaterMSG

Facebook: @TheGarden, @HuluTheaterMSG

Website: www.MSG.com

Media Credentials

MagnaMedia.com

About TrillerNet:

FITE and Triller Fight Club are owned by TrillerNet, a first-of-its-kind company consolidating technology and content platforms to lead the move to Internet 3.0. TrillerNet pairs the culture of music with sports, fashion, entertainment and influencers through a 360-degree view of content and technology. TrillerNet—which owns the globally popular Triller app used by musicians, celebrities, athletes, and overall culture setters—has more than 300 million users worldwide. The Triller app—unlike other popular short-video apps it is often compared to, encourages its users to post the content created on the app across other social media platforms and websites. The app uses proprietary AI and Machine Learning technology which is uniquely tied to the content rather than the user. By tracking the content, Triller empowers its tastemakers and users to push their content virally to affiliated and non-affiliated sites and networks reaching hundreds of millions of additional users. Data and insights gleaned from the Triller network, its creators, artists and users (from the app and off network) are used to program longer-form content, connect users across the web with the content, and provide unprecedented opportunities for engagement and monetization. TrillerNet has developed highly successful campaigns that begin with the app and continue throughout the entire content and technology ecosystem with some of the biggest brands in the world, including Pepsi, McDonalds, Weedmaps, DraftKings, L’Oreal, and many others. TrillerNet offers brands a unique content and technology solution, including direct deals with the influencers and celebrities. This branded content journey starts with short-form video and can easily expand into valuable long-form content distributed through the Triller Network, such as live-event boxing and music PPVs, fashion shows, and episodic reality content on TrillerTV. Some of the more than 65 original half-hour TrillerTV shows include The D’Amelios Family’s “Ask a DAM Question,” Jennifer Lopez In The Morning, Jake Paul: Staying On Top, 2 Chainz Let’s Do It, DJ Khaled’s Spreading Love, Hype House’s Thomas Petrou’s Coffee Talks, Josh Richards’ Josh Pong, Ur Lov’d: the Noah Beck Show, Fat Joe’s Masterclass, The Perez Hilton Show, and Violet Benson’s Too Tired To Be Crazy, among others. TrillerNet additionally owns Verzuz, the massive live-stream music platform launched by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland, and Triller Fight Club (www.TrillerFightClub.com), which launched last year with the highly successful Tyson-Jones Fight which shattered digital PPV records. Other holdings include leading AI-powered customer engagement platform Amplify.ai, and FITE, the premier live event and PPV, AVOD, SVOD streaming platform.

About FITE:

FITE is the premier global platform for live sports and entertainment offering the industry’s marquee PPV events and SVOD packages with over 5MM registered users. FITE is available worldwide through its iOS and Android mobile apps, Apple TV, Android TV, ROKU, Amazon Fire TV and Huawei apps. In addition, FITE supports Samsung, LG, Cox Contour, Vizio SmartCast™, Foxxum, Chromecast, PS4, XBOX, ZEASN, Netrange, Vidaa/Hisense, VEWD, Netgem TV, Virgin Media, Comcast’s Xfinity 1 and Xfinity Flex as well as 7,000 models of Smart TVs. Available online at www.FITE.tv. Follow FITE on TwitterFacebookYouTube and Instagram.

It’s ON.

About Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp.

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

About iNDemand:

iNDemand is an innovative partnership between three of the leading cable companies in the U.S.—Charter Communications, Comcast Cable, and Cox Communications. iNDemand is a company of trusted content aggregators and licensing experts, with unparalleled technical expertise and long-standing relationships with MVPDs, major sports leagues, Hollywood studios, and other entertainment and sports companies across North America. iNDemand delivers great content to more than 80 million homes and has distribution deals with more than 150 companies. For more information, go to indemand.com.




Future Bantamweight Champion Prince Octopus Dzanie Looking for Bigger Fights in the US after Demolishing Nigerian Opponent Sherif Kareem in Five Brutal Rounds

Salita Promotions’ newest red-hot bantamweight contender, Prince “Octopus” Dzanie (22-0, 18 KOs), is looking for a marquee fight in North America after stopping Nigerian journeyman Sherif Kareem (9-3, 7 KOs) in five one-sided rounds earlier this month at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, Ghana.

Appearing as one of the chief supporting bouts at promoters Jose Mohan and Alex Ntiamoah Boakye’s GH Fight Night, Dzanie (pronounced Johnny) sent a clear message to fans and foes alike that he has past the level of his domestic competition by dominating the entire fight with ripping hooks to the head and body and a steady stream of will-sapping uppercuts.

By round five, Kareem, who had done well just to survive that long by using employing a careful peekaboo defense, began to wilt under the heavy fire and was mercifully rescued as Dzanie continued to pour on the abuse. The official time was not announced.

Fighting for the second time under the Salita Promotions banner after signing with them earlier in 2021, the tall and lanky Dzanie looks to have the kind of strength to compete with any of the 118-lb division’s hardest hitters.

“I felt very strong in the ring,” said Dzanie, post-fight. “I knew I was hurting him with every punch and I knew sooner or later he would fall. I’m ready for a step up to the world-class leagues where I can meet my destiny of becoming world champion!”

Promoter Dmitriy Salita says The Octopus will be bringing his massively powerful gloved tentacles to the US in the near future.

“I believe Dzanie is the best prospect coming out of Africa and has the potential to follow in the footsteps of legends like Azuma Nelson and Ike Quartey,” said Salita. “He mows down opponents because he has the size and strength of a lightweight and no one can take his punches. I’m looking for some very big developments for this young fighter in the very near future. Congratulations to him for a very impressive performance.”

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Check the Salita Promotions YouTube Channel for regular video updates of boxing’s greatest legends, its best fighters, toughest contenders and brightest prospects in action.




Sampson Boxing Signs The Cuban Menace, Pablo Vicente, to a Promotional Contract

Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of power-punching Cuban super featherweight Pablo “The Cuban Menace” Vicente to an exclusive promotional contract.

Vicente, currently residing in Panama City, Panama, but originally hailing from Havana, Cuba, is currently ranked #10 in the world by the WBC. A former decorated amateur on the vaunted Cuban National Team, Vicente (17-1, 15 KOs) turned professional in 2016 and has gone on to stop all but three of his professional opponents.

The 28-year-old will make his Sampson Boxing debut on Friday, October 29, at the Centro de Convenciones Vasco Nunez de Balboa, Bella Vista, in his adopted home of Panama City in a 10-round showdown against Argentina’s Javier Herrera (17-4-1, 8 KOs) for the WBC Continental Americas Super Featherweight Championship.

“I am very happy to have gained a promoter who can properly move my career in Sampson,” said Vicente. “Our plan is to begin fighting in the US and start climbing up the ladder to a world championship. I am going to train like never before because I know I have been given the opportunity of a lifetime to reach all my dreams as a fighter.”

Lewkowicz, boxing’s premier talent scout, says Vicente will make a great addition to his ever-growing stable of contenders, prospects and champions.

“The Cuban Menace will be a world champion,” said Lewkowicz. “He is a very strong fighter with excellent power in his combinations and the skill level you would expect from an elite fighter. We will continue his development and move him into the fights he needs to become another great champion from the Island of Cuba.”
About Sampson Boxing

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




Michael Dutchover takes on Nahir Albright in Lightweight Showdown TOMORROW Tuesday, September 14 from Hollywood, Florida

PHILADELPHIA / Orange, Ca (September 13, 2021)–Lightweight’s Michael Dutchover and Nahir Albright will square off in a 10-round bout on Tuesday, September 14th at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

The bout will be part of the Triller Fight Club, and is Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

The Dutchover – Albright fight will be streamed on FITE.TV and trillerfightclub.com beginning at 6 PM ET.

Dutchover of Midland, Texas, is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing, has a record of 15-1 with 10 knockouts, weighed in at 137 lbs. at Monday’s weigh-in.

The 23 year-old Dutchover is a five year-professional who has wins over Cesar Partida (1-0-1), Miguel Carrizoza (10-1), Ricardo Lopez Torres (7-1-2), Bergman Aguilar (14-3-1), Rosekie Cristobal (15-3), Jorge Marron (18-1) and in his last bout Dutchover won an eight-round unanimous decision over Ivan Leon Benitez on June 6th in Orange, California.

“This is a quick turnaround. I was going to fight on September 24th. I am ready. I have been in camp with Oscar Valdez. I am feeling strong. I am happy to be on this event and showcase my skills to new fans in Hollywood, Florida. Albright is a good opponent. He is quick, but I am preparing for a war. I know he will be ready as I will be ready and looking to put on a great show,” said Dutchover.

Albright of Sicklerville, New Jersey has a record of 13-1 with six knockouts. The 25 year-old is a five-year professional, who after dropping his pro debut, has won 13 fights in a row. He has amassed victories over Danny Murray (1-0), Glenford Nickey (4-1-1), Roy McGill (6-1), Dante Cox (6-1), and his last bout when Albright took a eight-round unanimous decision over Jeremy Hill (15-1) on July 23rd in Philadelphia.

Albright was 137.7 lbs.

“It’s going to be exciting and the fight to watch, and I feel it will come down to who wants it more. I know he is a pressure fighter who is skilled and a good fighter,” said Albright.

“This is a great opportunity for Michael to prove that he is one of the best lightweight prospects out there. He continues to show the willingness to fight anybody, and Tuesday night is no exception. We look for a great performance from Michael, and a fight like this is one those fights that will transition him from a top prospect to a legitimate contender. I want to thank Triller for this opportunity to feature Michael on the card,” said Artie Pelullo, President of Banner Promotions.

“This fight is the next in the continued progression of Michael. He is fighting a good fighter from Philadelphia, and a win will get Michael to the next level. I want to thank Triller for putting this fight on this big event,” said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing.

Thompson continued, “This is a great opportunity for Michael Dutchover to show the boxing world that he belongs on the big stage. We believe he’s ready to take his career to the next level and a win against a solid fighter like Nahir Albright will prove he’s on his way.”

“Nahir has surprised a lot of people. I am not surprised. This is a big step and test for him and I believe he will pass with flying colors and shock a lot of people,” Said Rodney Rice of RDR Promotions

Photo Credit: Amanda Wescott / Triller Fight Club




TRILLERVERZ II SET FOR TUESDAY NIGHT! WORLD CLASS PROFESSIONAL BOXING FROM HARD ROCK LIVE FAT JOE VS. JA RULE VERZUZ BATTLE FROM MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

New York City / Fort Lauderdale, FL (September 13, 2021) Tomorrow, Tuesday night, September 14, TRILLERVERZ returns with its highly anticipated second event as World Class Professional Boxing will emanate from Hard Rock LIVE at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and switch to a LIVE Verzuz Battle between hip-hop icons FAT JOE and JA RULE from the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Both events will be broadcast on FITE.TV with the boxing event in Florida starting at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. PT. Following the boxing event, the second live iconic VERZUZ between Fat Joe and Ja Rule in NYC will commence at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT, created and overseen by world renowned producers SWIZZ BEATZ and TIMBALAND and produced by TRILLER FIGHT CLUB, the company known for pairing world class boxing with iconic music legends.

The entire TRILLERVERZ event will be broadcast on Triller and Fite.TV, through the TrillerVerz subscription package at www.TrillerFightClub.com.

Tickets for the Verzuz Battle may be purchased at MSG.com.  Advance tickets for boxing may be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

The record breaking TRILLERVERZ debuton August 3, which sold-out within fifteen minutes of going on sale, featured The LOX and DIPSET and generated over five million viewers, far exceeding every network broadcast or televised sporting event in 2021. With both acts performing in front of a sold-out Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden crowd, accolades included rave reviews from every entertainment media platform and legendary hip hop recording artist FAT JOE calling the event, “One of the Greatest Moments in Hip-Hop History.”

World-famous FAT JOE of the Bronx, NY has almost 30 years in the rap game and is best known for popular hits including “Lean Back” and “What’s Luv?” featuring Ashanti and Ja Rule. The American rapper raised by Cuban and Puerto Rican parents, began his music career in a hip-hop group before starting his own label ‘Terror Squad’ where he signed rappers including Big Pun, DJ Khaled and others.

International rap star JA RULE from Queens, NY made his debut in 1999 with the platinum-selling debut album Venni Vetti Vecci and has not stopped since. He has sold over 30 million records worldwide, topping music charts with multiple albums and hit songs. He’s been nominated for two American Music Awards and four Grammy Awards while collaborating with a who’s who list of musicians earning him mainstream acclaim.

Headlining the boxing action in a junior welterweight classic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico ten-round battle between heavy-handed combatants, popular Mexican warrior PABLO CESAR CANO,

(33-7-1, 23 KOs), of Atizapan de Zaragoza, Mexico clashes with undefeated Puerto Rican contender DANIELITO ‘EL ZORRO ZORRILLA, (15-0, 11 KOs), of Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. A fifteen-year professional and among the most popular active fighters from Mexico, Cano is riding a three-fight winning streak including a blistering first-round knockout of three-division world champion Jorge Linares in January 2019. Fighting in Guaynabo, Puerto Rico on March 4, 2021, Zorrilla was awarded a technical decision victory due to multiple fouls by Ruslan Madiyev in a bout broadcast on NBC Sports Network. The bout will be contested for the vacant WBO / NABO Junior Welterweight Title.

Co-featured over ten rounds in the junior welterweight division, MICHAEL ‘THE WEST TEXAS WARRIOR’ DUTCHOVER (15-1, 10 KOs), of Santa Fe Springs, CA clashing with NAHIR ‘WOO’ ALBRIGHT, (13-1, 6 KOs), of Sicklerville, NJ. The 23-year-old Dutchover has won two in a row, most recently defeating Ivan Benitez over eight rounds on June 6, 2021.  The 25-year-old Albright has won 13 fights in a row since losing his pro debut. He hits the ring following an eight-round decision over Jeremy Hill on July 23, 2021.

Also featured in a ten-round junior welterweight battle MIGUEL ANGEL MADUENO ‘EXPLOSIVO’ ANGULO, (24-0-0, 22 KOs), of Orange, CA faces off against Toledo, Ohio’s SONNY FREDRICKSON, (21-4, 14 KOs). The 22-year-old heavy-handed Angulo has knocked out his last ten opponents all within the first two rounds. Fighting twice in 2021, the Sinaloa, Mexico native has scored first round knockouts over Manuel Martinez and Bergman Aguilar. The highly regarded Fredrickson looks to bounce back into the win column following a hotly contested eight-round war with Jesus Antonio Rubio on May 1, 2021, in Ensenada, Mexico.

Fighting in the cruiserweight division, YUNIESKI ‘THE MONSTER’ GONZALEZ, (20-3, 16 KOs), of Miami, FL clashes with TOMMY ‘KRYPTONITE’ KARPENCY, (30-7-1, 19 KOS), of Adah, PA. The heavy-handed Gonzalez looks to stay in the win column, scoring first round knockouts in his last two fights over Alex Theran and Guillermo Romero.  A professional for fifteen years, Karpency has battled numerous world champions and top contenders including Adonis Stevenson, Oleksandr Gvozdyk, Gilbero Ramirez, Nathan Cleverly and Andrzej Fonfara. He also holds a victory over former world champion Chad Dawson.

In a four-round light heavyweight bout, BRYCE HENRY, (4-0, 3 KOs), of Miami FL faces JUAN DE ANGEL, (22-13-1, 20 KOs), of Barranquilla, Colombia.

About TrillerNet:

FITE and Triller Fight Club are owned by TrillerNet, a first-of-its-kind company consolidating technology and content platforms to lead the move to Internet 3.0. TrillerNet pairs the culture of music with sports, fashion, entertainment and influencers through a 360-degree view of content and technology. TrillerNet—which owns the globally popular Triller app used by musicians, celebrities, athletes, and overall culture setters—has more than 300 million users worldwide. The Triller app—unlike other popular short-video apps it is often compared to, encourages its users to post the content created on the app across other social media platforms and websites. The app uses proprietary AI and Machine Learning technology which is uniquely tied to the content rather than the user. By tracking the content, Triller empowers its tastemakers and users to push their content virally to affiliated and non-affiliated sites and networks reaching hundreds of millions of additional users. Data and insights gleaned from the Triller network, its creators, artists and users (from the app and off network) are used to program longer-form content, connect users across the web with the content, and provide unprecedented opportunities for engagement and monetization. TrillerNet has developed highly successful campaigns that begin with the app and continue throughout the entire content and technology ecosystem with some of the biggest brands in the world, including Pepsi, McDonalds, Weedmaps, DraftKings, L’Oreal, and many others. TrillerNet offers brands a unique content and technology solution, including direct deals with the influencers and celebrities. This branded content journey starts with short-form video and can easily expand into valuable long-form content distributed through the Triller Network, such as live-event boxing and music PPVs, fashion shows, and episodic reality content on TrillerTV. Some of the more than 65 original half-hour TrillerTV shows include The D’Amelios Family’s “Ask a DAM Question,” Jennifer Lopez In The Morning, Jake Paul: Staying On Top, 2 Chainz Let’s Do It, DJ Khaled’s Spreading Love, Hype House’s Thomas Petrou’s Coffee Talks, Josh Richards’ Josh Pong, Ur Lov’d: the Noah Beck Show, Fat Joe’s Masterclass, The Perez Hilton Show, and Violet Benson’s Too Tired To Be Crazy, among others. TrillerNet additionally owns Verzuz, the massive live-stream music platform launched by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland, and Triller Fight Club (www.TrillerFightClub.com), which launched last year with the highly successful Tyson-Jones Fight which shattered digital PPV records. Other holdings include leading AI-powered customer engagement platform Amplify.ai, and FITE, the premier live event and PPV, AVOD, SVOD streaming platform.

About FITE:

FITE is the premium global platform for live sports and entertainment offering many of the industry’s marquee PPV events and SVOD packages with over 5.1MM registered users. FITE is available worldwide through its iOS, Android and Huawei mobile apps, as well as via Apple TV, Android TV, ROKU, and Amazon Fire TV OTT streaming apps. In addition, FITE supports Shaw Communications’ Blue Curve IPTV, LG, Samsung, Vizio SmartCast™, Cox Contour and the Contour Streaming Player, Foxxum, Chromecast, PS4, XBOX, ZEASN, Comcast’s Xfinity X1 and Xfinity Flex, Netrange, Vidaa/Hisense, VEWD, Netgem TV, Virgin Media, as well as over 7,000 models of Smart TVs. Available online at www.FITE.tv. FITE is owned by TrillerNet.

FITE: It’s ON. Follow us on Twitter, InstagramYouTubeLinkedIN, and Facebook

FOLLOW TRILLER FIGHT CLUB AND VERZUZ

Triller Fight Club

Instagram: @Triller, @TrillerFightClub

Twitter: @Triller, @TrillerFight

Facebook: @TrillerFightClub

Website www.Triller.co

Verzuz

Instagram: @VerzuzTV

Twitter: @VerzuzOnline

Facebook: @Verzuz




CASEY “LADY HAWAIIAN PUNCH” MORTON CAPTURES WBO INTERNATIONAL TITLE

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (September 13, 2021) – Last night in Dubai, Casey “Lady Hawaiian Punch” Morton (10-2-3, 2 KOs), who hails from San Francisco, CA, captured the WBO Bantamweight International title with a dominating win over Urvashi Singh (8-3, 5 KOs). The 10-round bout was a title elimination bout, putting her one step closer to a world title shot.

Morton blooded up Singh in the third round, and dominated the fight onward, as her strength, size, and skill were just far too much for the fighter from India, who looked outgunned and got outworked.

“I want to thank my team, starting with my coach O.T., as well as Victor Conte and SNAC System for all the support back in the Bay Area, this win means everything,” said an excited Morton after the fight. “I knew I had a lot to prove in this fight, and to accomplish this goal is one more step towards my dream of becoming a world champion.”

Morton, who trains with Victor Conte’s prestigious and exclusive team out of the SNAC System gym that uses the most modern equipment, recently brought on a new boxing coach, a former undefeated professional boxer Otis “O.T.” Seymore, who trains her out of Oakland, California. Morton spends on average two hours a day in traffic to get the training she needs.

“I want to be a world champion, I know I am ready to be a world champion and I am hopeful that my next fight can be for a world title,” said Morton. “I have never felt better in the ring then I did last night and I am ready for a chance to prove I am a world champion.”