DEDHAM, Mass. (August 1, 2021) — Last night, professional boxing returned to Massachusetts for the first time in 1 ½ years, due to pandemic restrictions, as Vertex Promotions presented it first show, “Fight Night on the Charles at Moseley’s,” at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts.

“Fight Night on the Charles at Moseley’s” also marked the initial pro boxing event ever held in Dedham, the town located on Boston’s southwest border that was settled in 1635. Vertex Promotions’ first show was a sellout, in fact, people were turned away at the door.

“I thought we’d do very well because I know Ryan Roach, and he refuses to fail,” an ecstatic Vertex Promotions president Dave Clark commented about his company’s first promoted event. “I was a little bit surprised how well everything went. We have a really good team (Clark, Roach and Mark Porter). Ryan is a manager, but he really helped us out a lot with his experience. Everybody was happy, even the fighters who didn’t win. They all said they want to work with us again. They loved it in Boston and some of them had never been there before.

“I won’t lie, though, it our first experience and I was stressed the last month, but we’re all very happy now. The crowd was awesome. I want to thank the fans, our staff, and especially the fighters. We couldn’t have done it without all of them. We’ll enjoy this for a little while and then keep things going. We’re steamrolling now and we want to keep those kids active.”

Undefeated junior welterweight Ray Jay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (13-0, 10 KOs) lived up to his nickname in the main event, stopping an over-matched Bergman “The Snake” Aguilar (15-9-1, 5 KOs) in round two to capture the vacant NBA Continental crown.

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Bermudez (pictured above on left), fighting out of Troy, New York, dropped Aguilar, the former WBA FEDALATIN super featherweight champion, in the second round with an overhand right. Three left hooks to the body put Aguilar on the canvas again, and the end came moments later when Bermudez decked his Nicaraguan opponent for a third and final time with a perfectly place left hook to the body that left Agular grimacing in pain. He was unable to beat the count and Bermudez had a new belt to add to his ABF American West super lightweight strap.

Pre-fight, Bermudez correctly predicted Aguilar wouldn’t last past five rounds. “I saw that his body was open and that was the way to attack him,” Bermudez said after the fight. “I went to work and knew and wouldn’t last too long. I’m ready to fight anybody my team picks. I’m ready for the big dogs!

“I’ve been trained out of Boston (with his uncle, head trainer Hector Bermudez) the last four years and have a nice fan-base. I’m like fighting in New England.”

In the co-featured event, highly touted welterweight prospect Jim “The Slim Reaper” Perella (8-0, 6 KOs) overcame the first knockdown of his young career, albeit it from a questionable shot that appeared to hit Perella behind the head, en route to a third-round win by technical knockout of Rakim Johnson (6-12-1, 5 KOs).

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Perella (above right), fighting out of Mansfield, MA, has a strong amateur pedigree having won the New England USA New England and New England Golden Gloves four times each. His class showed from the start as he boxed effectively, using his jab to set-up his other punches, and other than the flash knockdown in the second round, he cruised past Johnson. Perella registered knockdowns in the first with a big right hand, followed two rounds later by a body shot, and then another liver shot to close the show midway through the third.

Another undefeated promising prospect, Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (7-0, 7 KOs) nearly went the distance for the first time in his pro career, but halfway through the sixth and final round, the southpaw finished strong with a left that Isiah “Murder” Hart (6-2-1, 4 KOs) was unable to withstand. Hart was also floored in the second round by a pair of lefts from Hogan (below right), the reigning New Hampshire Super Welterweight Champion, as well as a 2019 New England Golden Gloves champion.

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Boston lightweight Jonathan de Pina (5-1, 3 KOs) pitched a shutout against journeyman “Money” Mike Fowler (7-38, 2 KOs), winning all six rounds for a unanimous decision victory. Pina dropped Fowler twice, once in the second and again in the third, by consistently trapping him the ropes, but Fowler was able to survive.

Weymouth, MA welterweight Eric “Gladiator” Goff (3-0, 3 KOs) continued to impress against Austin Reed Ward (0-7), who was knocked down in the opening round by an overhand right, and a barrage of unanswered punches led to a stoppage in the middle of the first round.

In a fight between pro-debuting welterweights, Boston’s James Murrin took a close but unanimous 4-round decision from Michael Oller Da Silva. Murrin’s aggression put him in early control, but Da Silva got back in the fight with a knockdown to make it close in the judges’ scoring (39-37, 38-37, 38-37).

Worcester, MA junior lightweight Alex Rivera (1-0, 1 KOs) turned in a powerful pro debut, battering Richard Bernard (1-4-1) from the opening bell until a 3-punch combination in the opening round resulted in a knockout.

The first fight of the night only lasted 30-seconds as Boston cruiserweight Bernard Joseph (2-0, 2 KOs) needed only one well-placed body shot to put Francisco Neto (1-14-1, 1 KO) on his knees and aching in obvious pain.

Official results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT NBA CONTINENTAL JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

RayJay Bermudez (13-0, 10 KOs), Albany, NY

WKO2 (1:25)

Bergman Aguilar (15-9-1, 5 KOs), San Jose, Costa Rica by way of Nicaragua

(Bermudez won NBA Continental junior welterweight title)

CO-FEATURE – WELTERWEIGHTS

James Perella (8-0, 6 KOs), Mansfield, MA

WTKO3 (1:46)

Rakim Johnson (6-13-1, 5 KOs), Indianapolis, IN

SPECIAL SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT ATTRACTION

Francis Hogan (7-0, 7 KOs), Weymouth, MA.

WTKO6 (1:36)

Isiah Hart (6-2-1, 4 KOs), Mays Landy, NJ by way of Peru

CRUISERWEIGHTS

Bernard Joseph (2-0, 2 KOs), Dorchester, MA

WKO1 (0:30)

Francisco Neto (1-14-1, 1 KO), Woburn, MA by way of Brazil

WELTERWEIGHTS

Eric Goff (3-0, 3 KOs), Weymouth, MA

WTKO1 (1:39(

Austin Reed Ward (0-7), Garden City, KS

James Murrin (1-0, 0 KOs), Boston, MA

WDEC4 (39-37, 38-37, 38-37)

Michael Oller Da Silva (0-1, Concord, NH by way of Brazil

LIGHTWEIGHTS

Jonathan de Pina (5-1, 3 KOs), Boston, MA

WDEC6 (60-52, 60-52, 60-52)

Mike Fowler (7-38), Milwaukee, WI

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS

Alex Rivera (1-0, 1 KO), Worcester, MA

WKO1 (1:50)

Richard Bernard (1-4-1), Waianae, HI

London, UK (1 August 2021) It was a successful raid in Italy last night for Brighton heavyweight destroyer Tommy Welch who blasted through Jiri Svacina in one round to maintain his perfect unbeaten record.

Welch had been scheduled to face Petr Frolich, but he was withdrawn at the last minute and replaced with the experienced Svacina for the four-round bout in Fano, Marche, on the Adriatic coast.

Not phased by the change, concrete-fisted Welch heavily dropped Svacina four times in the opening round and the 61-fight Czech Republic veteran didn’t come out for the second, opting to sit on his stool.

The fast-rising talent is blitzing through all opponents put before him with his previous three going inside two rounds as they succumb to the 26-year-old’s big hitting power. It was the second back-to-back foreign assignment for Welch with his prior fight in Brussels in June against Gyorgy Kutasi ending in the second round.

Welch was pleased with his Italian job and felt he had overcome a number of situations presented to him before the fight which will hold him in good stead for the future.

“When I hit him flush with the first big shot in the first ten seconds of the opening round I knew that I had him,” Said Welch.

“From that point on Svacina knew that he was in with an animal and he wasn’t going to escape and I hurt him with every shot as hit the canvas four times. He sat on his stool after the first round and it was clear he didn’t want anymore,”

“He said to me afterwards ‘Man, you’re very strong and fast, these heavyweights are going to struggle with you’ which was good to hear as he’s very experienced and been in with a lot of people,”

“I felt I successfully dealt with what was presented to me out there, we were told the venue was indoor and it was outdoor. Actually, it gave the fight a gladiator feel with it being in Italy and my grandfather had he been alive, who is part Italian, would have been over the moon,”

“The last minute opponent change was another factor. Svacina was the original opponent, but we wanted someone heavier and went with Frolich, but then he was replaced with Svacina again. I was a little angry and that’s why the fight probably ended as quick as it did,”

“Also it was boiling hot and there were no changing rooms either. The Joker face mask went down a treat as well. Due to my performance I had the crowd behind me. It reminded me of the line in the movie Gladiator ‘win the crowd and you will win your freedom’ and that’s what I did,”

“If I can learn and deal now from all these different types of situations and pressures early in my career, I know that when I go to my opponent’s backyard in the future I can deal with it,”

Welch has a busy summer ahead with a further fight on August 29 in Brussels, Belgium, and then on Hennessy Sports’ show on Friday 10th September at the Coventry Skydome Arena, live on Channel 5.

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

LOS ANGELES – The culmination of the nearly two-year featherweight tournament featuring the greatest BELLATOR athlete and the top undefeated prospect in the history of the promotion is in the books and AJ McKee emerged victorious, notching an emphatic submission win in the opening round.

With the win, McKee extended his winning streak to 18 fights, and took home not one, but two belts in front of a partisan crowd at the world famous Forum in Los Angeles.

#1-AJ McKee (18-0) defeated C-Patricio Pitbull (32-5) via submission (guillotine) at 1:57 of round one

AJ McKee following his championship win:

“We are just getting started. This is only the beginning. When it first started and they were selecting the bracket, I wanted the third or fourth pick.  But God told me that I am number one so when I picked that first draw, I knew that I was number one and now I am. Mentality is the key.  You have to put the work in and my dad always says, hard work beats talent.”

Additionally, BELLATOR Heavyweight World Champion Ryan Bader joined the commentary team tonight. It was announced earlier this morning that his upcoming bout with Corey Anderson has been scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 16 at the Footprint Center, home of the Phoenix Suns, as part of the BELLATOR MMA Light Heavyweight World Grand Prix Semifinals. Three of the participants spoke tonight at BELLATOR 263.

Rumble Johnson:

This is my home now (BELLATOR) and I am going to make the most of it. Going against Nemkov, I see that it is going to be a big challenge. He doesn’t have any weaknesses. He’s a winner. I know he hits very hard. I have to be on my A-game.  I can’t be lazy and play around.  I am not saying I was lazy against Jose Augusto. But now I’ve got to go against the champ and I’ll be ready.  

Corey Anderson:

“It was super important for me to make a statement in the opening round and I did that. I came in and did what I said I was going to do.  I worked my ground and pound and I showed my power to get the win. I was able to do it against a guy that everyone said is a Russian killer.  

Ryan Bader:

“Corey looked good in that fight but, really, who was that guy? You say he was a dark horse but he’s a dark horse because no one knows him. And your ground and pound didn’t show any power. It was volume, not power. Look, I am a gamer. I‘ve proven that again and again. I came here a two-division champion and I am still rolling.”

#8-Mads Burnell (15-3) defeated #2-Emmanuel Sanchez (20-5) via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

Mads Burnell following his dominant win:

“About Emmanuel Sanchez, and this ain’t some post-fight bull where I talk up my opponent.  He is one tough dude. This guy is straight up gangster. I am tired of hearing that I am only a submission expert.  I can box, too.  The plan was with Sanchez to walk him down. To go to him and use my shoulder roll and when he changed his angle, take his butt down. He’s a dog.  You think you have him and then he gets energy from someplace, I don’t know where.

Usman Nurmagomedov (13-0) defeated Manny Muro (12-7) via TKO (punches) at 3:30 of round one

Usman Nurmagomedov after remaining undefeated:

“I wanted to make statement in this fight… I wanted to show that I could wrestle, and I could grapple. I can take the fight anywhere it goes.  That I am not just striking. I showed that tonight.”

Islam Mamedov (20-1-1) defeated Brent Primus (10-2) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Islam Mamedov after his close decision win:

“Honestly, I thought I won all three rounds without a doubt. I am not sure why any judge gave my opponent the fight. In my mind I was thinking that if this fight goes to him, it would be crazy, and I wouldn’t understand why. Well, now he must be unhappy that he is not on my level. I heard him saying that and I feel like I proved I am better than him.”

“He was very negative about this fight, and I think he needs to do something to deserve this rematch. To me, he did not do a single thing in that fight that showed he won or deserved a rematch. Before this fight, I knew what he was able to do. He was trying to submit me, but he didn’t even come close. Even if he did, I have trained with so many good people for years and he would’ve had to rip my hand off to get this victory.”

#5-Goiti Yamauchi (26-5) defeated Chris Gonzalez (6-1) via TKO (punches) at 3:53 of round one

Goiti Yamauchi following his victory:

“Training camp was devoted to be ready for his wrestling background. But the more I train for grappling, the fights become more striking. That’s what happened tonight.”

Preliminary Card:

#10-Vanessa Porto (23-9) defeated Ilara Joanne (9-6) via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Gadzhi Rabadanov (16-4-2) defeated Daniel Carey (7-5) via KO (punch) at 3:57 of round one

Khasan Magomedsharipov (6-0 defeated Jonathan Quiroz (4-4) 4:21 of round two TKO (strikes)

 Joshua Jones (11-5) defeated Johnny Cisneros (13-8) via TKO (strikes) at 4:15 of round two

Georgi Karakhanyan (31-11-1) defeated Kiefer Crosbie (8-3) via submission (arm-triangle choke) at 4:25 of round one

Brian Moore (14-7) defeated Jordan Winski (11-3) via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26, 30-26)

About BELLATOR

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

About SHOWTIME

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

Atlantic City, NJ (July 31, 2021)–Weights for Tonight’s Hard Hitting Promotions fight card at the Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City.

Christian Tapia 130 – Mason Menard 129.2
(NABA Super Featherweight Title)

Dylan Price 119 – Edwin Rodriguez 118
Anthony Young 146.8 – Todd Manuel 146.4
Ricardo Caraballo 111.4 – Harold Lopez 111.8
Jerome Conquest 140.4 – Wilfredo Garriga 140
Brendan O’Callaghan 158 – Anthony Young 154
Desmond Lucas 146.4 -Trey Martin 147.4
Isaiah Wise 158.6 – Luis Solis 159.8

Promoter: Hard Hitting Promotions
Venue: Showboat Hotel
1st Bell: 7 PM ET
Doors: 6 PM ET
Stream: Flo Combat

London, UK (30 July 2021) Promoter Mick Hennessy will showcase the brightest boxing talents of his quality packed stable in one mega night of boxing at the Coventry Skydome Arena on Friday 10th September, live and free in the UK and Ireland on Channel 5.

Hennessy’s biggest stars, champions and prospects will get to show off their skills and dynamite punching in front of a live crowd and viewing TV audience as they aim to become British boxing’s next big thing.

Presented by Hennessy Sports in association with William Hill, Infinitum, Numan and Everlast, tickets will start at £40 and go on sale on general sale shortly.

The action packed line up features:

Sam Eggington: Multi-tilted, all-action Eggington won the WBC Silver Middleweight title in a thrilling battle with Carlos Molina in May and picked up a World ranking as he closes in fast on a World title.

Isaac Chamberlain: The Brixton banger makes his highly anticipated return to the ring following career enhancing shoulder surgery which will make him better than ever and is now ready to rock and is back to his big-punching best again.

Stevie McKenna: The Irish dynamo has TNT packed in his fists with all eight out of eight of his opponents KO’d within five rounds. The County Monaghan welterweight terror is gunning for a showdown with English rival Conor Benn next year as he continues leaving a trail of destruction in his wake.

Shakan Pitters: The charismatic Birmingham giant signalled his explosive return to the ring earlier this year with a KO of Jermaine Springer and now looks to regain his mantle as British Light-Heavyweight Champion.

River Wilson Bent: The fast-rising Coventry middleweight hot shot has been hailed as the new Ricky Hatton with his exhilarating knockout style and lifted the roof off the Planet Ice Arena with his KO of George Farrell last time out.

Kaisee Benjamin: Thrilled in his last fight when he floored rival Martin Harkin with a searing body shot in the sixth round and Harkin didn’t come out for the next round. Super skilled Benjamin is shaping up to be a serious threat in the welterweight division.

Idris Virgo: The Love Island star is proving to be the real deal as he continues on the road to his first title fight. With a physique carved out of rock, the flash and brash Birmingham super- middleweight ace has backed everything up so far.

Brett McGinty: The sensational Ricky Hatton trained, Donegal super-welterweight, and former amateur standout talent is unbeaten in two fights and is showing signs of becoming a force to be reckoned with as he developes.

Tommy Welch: The Brighton heavyweight star and former amateur sensation brings hell every time he fights and he doesn’t hang about with all three of his fights ending by KO inside two rounds.

Michael Hennessy Jr.: A former top amateur with a wealth of experience, the stylish Sevenoaks super-welterweight is looking better and better each time with some eye-catching combinations to head and body as looks to stamp his mark in the pro game.

Hennessy was the first boxing promoter to open the doors to the public in May at the Coventry Skydome Arena and the allocated tickets – put on sale just five days before the show – sold out within minutes and the action starved fight fans were given to a fistic treat.

This time the Coventry Skydome Arena will be open to full capacity on Friday 10th September and Hennessy is promising a night of entertainment that they won’t forget.

He said, “This is a real boxing bonanza of a card for the fight fans. After a very tough time that everyone has had, this is a show for the fans where they can come out and enjoy the fights, see the Hennessy Sports stable of champions from Sam, Kaisee, River, the return of Isaac, Shakan on his comeback, and our exciting future of young talents like Stevie, Idris, Brett, Tommy and Michael all showcasing their skills. The breadth of talent across the weight divisions is just incredible and shows the strength of British and Irish boxing as they look to shine on this massive night. There will be real entertaining, fifty-fifty, fights throughout the card to savour so don’t miss this one.”

The full card will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets will go on sale shortly and are expected to sell out fast so keep a close eye on Hennessy Sports social media accounts for more announcements.

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

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – BELLATOR 263: Pitbull vs. McKee will be broadcast tomorrow, Saturday, July 31 on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, while preliminary bouts will stream on the BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel, the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel, and on Pluto TV beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

BELLATOR 263: Pitbull vs. McKee Main Card:

Saturday, July 31 – Live on SHOWTIME

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT 

Featherweight World Title Main Event: C-Patricio Pitbull (144.5) vs. #1-AJ McKee (145)

Featherweight Bout: #2-Emmanuel Sanchez (145.3) vs. #8-Mads Burnell (145.5)

Lightweight Bout: Usman Nurmagomedov (155.3) vs. Manny Muro (156)

Lightweight Bout: Brent Primus (155.2) vs. Islam Mamedov (154.9)

Lightweight Bout: #5-Goiti Yamauchi (155.5) vs. Chris Gonzalez (155)

Preliminary Card:

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

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

Women’s Flyweight Bout: #10-Vanessa Porto (125.6) vs. Ilara Joanne (125.2)

150 lb. Contract Weight Bout: Gadzhi Rabadanov (149) vs. Daniel Carey (149.1)

Featherweight Bout: Khasan Magomedsharipov (144.6) vs. Jonathan Quiroz (146)

180 lb. Contract Weight Bout: Joshua Jones (179.6) vs. Johnny Cisneros (179.2)

Lightweight Bout: Georgi Karakhanyan (155.6) vs. Kiefer Crosbie (155.9)

Bantamweight Bout: Brian Moore (135.8) vs. Jordan Winski (134.7)

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

About BELLATOR

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

About SHOWTIME

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

NORWOOD, Mass. ( (July 30, 2021) — The official weigh in for tomorrow night’s “Fight Night on the Charles at Moseley’s,” presented by Vertex Promotions, was held today at Dan O’Brien Motorsports in Norwood, Massachusetts.

Tomorrow night’s event will be held at Moseley’s On The Charles in Dedham, Massachusetts. It’ll be the first professional boxing match ever held in Dedham, which borders Boston, as well as the first pro show in Massachusetts in 1 ½ years.

Two championship final matches of the New England Silver Gloves Tournament will highlight an amateur card preceding the evening’s pro card, during the afternoon segment, between 1-4 p.m. ET ($20.00 admission fee at door).

Limited tickets for the evening’s pro card will be available at the door for $95.00 (row 1), $85.00 (2nd row), $65.00 (3rd row), $55.00 (general admission) and $45.00 (standing room).

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

Fighters’ weights are below:

(pictures by Emily Harney / Fightography)

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MAIN EVENT – VACANT NBA CONTINENTAL JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (8)

(L) RayJay Bermudez (12-0, 9 KOs), Albany, NY 140 lbs.

(R) Bergman Aguillar (15-8-1, 5 KOs), San Jose, Costa Rica by way of Nicaragua 140 lbs.

WI – Perella-Johnson.jpg
CO-FEATURE – WELTERWEIGHTS (6)

(L) James Perella (7-0, 5 KOs), Mansfield, MA 147 lbs.

(R) Rakim Johnson (6-12-1, 5 KOs), Indianapolis, IN 148 lbs.

WI – Hogan-Hart.JPG

SPECIAL SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT ATTRACTION (6)

(L) Francis Hogan (6-0, 6 KOs), Weymouth, MA 159 lbs.

(R) Isiah Hart (6-1-1, 4 KOs), Mays Landy, NJ by way of Peru 166 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

Eric Goff (2-0, 2 KOs), Weymouth, MA 140 lbs.

Austin Reed Ward (0-6), Garden City, KS 145 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Jonathan de Pina (4-1, 3 KOs), Boston, MA 135 lbs.

Mike Fowler (7-37), Milwaukee, WI 134 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

James Murrin ((Pro Debut), Boston, MA 147 lbs.

Maycow Oller (Pro Debut), Concord, NH by way of Brazil 150 lbs.

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Alex Rivera (Pro Debut), Worcester, MA 129 lbs.

Richard Bernard (1-3-1), Waianae, HI 130 lbs.

CRUISERWEIGHTS (4)

Bernard Joseph (1-0, 1 KO), Dorchester, MA 192 lbs.

Francisco Neto (1-13-1, 1 KO), Woburn, MA by way of Brazil 187 lbs.

(card subject to change)

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Thanks Chris, thanks Darren and thanks to everyone for joining us here as we look outside to Fight Camp. Just two days to go, with the most incredible experience to come for fighters, for fans and for viewers on Saturday night as Fight Camp returns.

“As Chris said, we do have some sad news to bring you, the fact that Conor Benn tested positive for COVID-19 this morning. He will be off the card on Saturday night. That fight will be rescheduled as soon as physically possible and when it is safe to do so.

“Leigh Wood against Xu Can for the WBA World Featherweight Title will main event here on Saturday night. A chance for Leigh Wood to become only the second person from Nottingham to become a World Champion.

“We have a great co-main event – the European, British and Commonwealth Title showdown – Tommy McCarthy against Chris Billam-Smith. Jack Cullen against Avni Yildirim now elevated to that main card as well. Anthony Fowler against Rico Muller. Anthony Fowler, Campbell Hatton, Sandy Ryan – a huge night of boxing to come.”

Adrian Granados:

“It’s just the nature of the world we live in now. It’s unfortunate, Conor and I were very gun-ho about this fight, excited about it, chomping at the bit. It’s the day and age we live in, anything can happen now – this unfortunate disease that’s conquering the world right. I’m upset and frustrated but what can we do.

“This says Benn vs. Granados, let’s go. This was the fight that was supposed to happen, Benn’s being talking a lot of stuff. I’ve said some things, but I just wanted to get it on, ready to rumble. It’s unfortunate but I’m hoping for a speedy, 100% recovery for him, no excuses. The 14^th August or the 14^th September we’ll be 100% ready.”

Xu Can – Beijing, China – 18-2, 3 KOs – defending his WBA Featherweight World Title against Leigh Wood:

“I’m in the best state, I wasn’t able to fight in the last 20 months. I’m fully prepared and looking forward to the fight on Saturday night.

“Now I want to focus on this fight, Leigh Wood is a great fighter and I’m taking this really seriously. I will think about the other fighters after Saturday night.

“We will show the fans a big show on Saturday night. For the fans, I will take the victory back to my family and country. Nothing can stop me.” 

Pedro Diaz, trainer of Xu Can:

“I’m very happy to be here, thanks for the opportunity in Fight Camp. I think Saturday will be a very good fight, I see this big fight starting fast, Leigh has big power and an experienced corner. However, Xu Can has a great defence against the big power.”

Leigh Wood – Nottingham, England – 24-2, 14 KOs – challenging Xu Can for the WBA Featherweight World Title:

“It’s the thing you dream of stepping into the gym as a kid, fighting for a World title. It’s not going to be good enough to fight for one, I need to win. I’m 100% confident in getting the win across the line on Saturday night. I’ve worked really hard, my testament in being in the gym and staying ready, ticking over, and improving with Ben is the reason I’ve got myself ready in short notice.

“My last fight for the British title I only had a short time with Ben, I was working on things and just did as I was told, I just trusted him, and it worked. Now I’ve been back in the gym after that fight, picking things up and now I understand what I’m doing. It’s going to be key for a victory on Saturday night.

“After my last fight I was looked at pursuing one of the champions, but there’s so many names at Featherweight – the division is red hot. I can’t look too far ahead; I’ve got to be extremely focused on Saturday because all of that can dissolve into the abyss. I need to be 100% focused on Saturday night, I am, and I truly believe I will win this fight.” 

Ben Davison, trainer of Leigh Wood:

“I believe Leigh can do this. We’re very confident, like you said Eddie it’s very random but fortunately Leigh was in the gym – he’s look after himself all year round. He’s very well prepared, this is the best prepared I’ve seen him physically, emotionally, tactically, we’re ready to go.

“Leigh’s been in with other good punchers as well, the hardest punchers don’t always become the best fighters, so you need a little bit more than that. But like I said before Leigh is very well prepared, tactically. Anybody that knows Xu knows he’s got phenomenal output and it’s up to us to deal with that. We believe we know what to do to solve it.”

“I believe 100% Leigh Wood will become World Champion on Saturday.”

Tommy McCarthy – Belfast, Northern Ireland – 18-2, 9 KOs – fighting Chris Billam-Smith for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles:

“There’s no real size difference, he’s 6’3 and I’m 6’2½, we’re the same weight so it’s not a major factor. Nothing concerns be about Chris, I’ve got better boxing skills, I’m elusive, I’ve got more experience, all those cards are stacked in my favour. 

“Chris is just rolling the dice here, it’s a big mistake to take this fight in this stage of his career. I’ve said it before, he isn’t ready for such a big jump, he hasn’t been fighting at a good level and he’s coming up to my level. I’m going to prove that on Saturday night.

“I will fight anyone but to fight Chris Billam-Smith to get the clean sweep and go for a World title after, you couldn’t have picked a better opponent. Some people have World title eliminators against killers, and I’ve got Chris, I couldn’t say no.

“Chris is a good fighter but he’s not on my level. That’s not an opinion that’s looking at the facts, he hasn’t got my experience or boxed at my level. Saturday night I’m going to thump him all over the ring.

“He’s been saying he’ll KO me; he’s been saying the exact same one-liner in every interview – I think I’ll stop him in the mid to late-rounds – somebody is saying it to him. He is saying what Shane is saying. I’m coming in here to smash him to bits.”

Mark Dunlop

“This is the triple crown of British and Irish boxing; we’re delighted that we’re facing Chris for all three belts. Chris seems like a nice guy, but I feel he’s being pushed to say the things he’s saying. At the end of the day, when you get into that ring there’s only going to be one winner and that will be Tommy McCarthy.

“I’ve never seen Tommy so dedicated, he hasn’t been out of camp since the last fight and that’s why he’s in incredible shape. He’s chomping at the European level and kicking the door of a World title – he’s number three in the IBF. Tommy’s going for everything, all the belts and World title. That’s why we’re here, not for the money but for the glory.” 

Chris Billam-Smith – Bournemouth, England – 12-1, 10 KOs – fighting Tommy McCarthy for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles:

“It’s been exciting, it’s a fight you can really get up for with everything that’s on the line. The chat and interviews between us have been good and I’m excited for Saturday.

“This is the right steps at the right time for me, with the British, Commonwealth and European titles being on the line this is another step on the ladder.

“I’ve said it all along, I believe I’ll stop Tommy in the mid to late rounds. That’s what I said at the beginning and that’s what I still believe.” 

Shane McGuigan, trainer of Chris Billam-Smith:

“Credit to both guys for taking the fight, it’s a domestic title but they’re both highly ranked by the governing bodies at world level. They could have sat and waited for an opportunity at the top but it’s fantastic, it allows Chris to win the European and British title, while defending his Commonwealth title.

“It’s exactly what he’s in this sport for, big fights, domestic fights that we can get up for. It’s a competitive fight, after Riakporhe it’s probably Chris’ hardest fight to date.

“I think Tommy’s not the biggest Cruiserweight, he’s very skilful, got good movement, sits back well, is very elusive but I think close mid-range size is going to tell as the fight goes on and I can see Chris stopping him in the later rounds.

“This is a massive step for Chris. He wasn’t touted to be the best, he didn’t go to the Olympics, he wasn’t on the national set-up, but we’ve been working together now four years and he’s been progressing gradually. He’s maximised him as an athlete throughout and I think this will be a real defining fight for him and will put him on the world scene.” 

Campbell Hatton – Manchester, England – 2-0 – fighting Jakub Laskowski in a four round Lightweight contest:

“This is a step up, he’s tricky and a tall fighter, it’ll take a big of figuring out – it’ll be a bit awkward. It’ll be a good learning experience for me.

“I showed big improvements from my second professional fight to my first, just because of how much more relaxed I was. I showed a lot more composure, kept my shape better just because I was handling my nerves better. It’s getting more and more the norm to me now; I’ll be even more relaxed, and we’ll see even bigger improvement on Saturday.

“I’ve always wanted to box at the Manchester Arena which I did last time, but it was empty. I can’t wait to do it with a full crowd, we’re getting back to normal now. My minds on the job this weekend but it’s another motivator to look good on Saturday and move on to the next.”

Jakub Laskowski – Siemianowice Slaskie, Poland – 4-4-1, 2 KOs – fighting Campbell Hatton in a four round Lightweight contest:

“I’m excited for a good fight. Campbell Hatton get ready!”

Anthony Fowler – Liverpool, England – 14-1, 11 KOs – defending his WBA International Super-Welterweight Title against Rico Mueller:

“I was a bit worried on Monday/Tuesday because I wasn’t boxing at all, I had the baby in my hand – I was thinking I better switch on here. I knew as soon as I got back in the gym with Shane and the lads I’d switch back on and I’ve got to. It’s a fight, one shot can change a fight.

“I’m back in the gym now, I’m on weight, my life is on the line every fight – I can’t think about the baby. I need to worry about my opponent which I am doing.

“I left no stone unturned at camp, I’m really focused, I never have an off say. I’m switched on all the time, and I will be on Saturday night. I look at him as a 5’9 orthodox boxer, we prepared for that style. Whatever he does I’ll have an answer for.

“If I lose this fight, all the plans go away. I’ve got to win, and I will win.”  

Rico Mueller – Eberswalde, Germany – 28-3-1, 19 KOs – challenging Anthony Fowler for the WBA International Super-Welterweight Title:

“Unfortunately, with Conor Benn it didn’t work out but when I got the call about Fowler, I knew I wanted to take the fight. This is the first time I’ll step up in weight but I’m confident and on Saturday there will be fireworks.” 

Avni Yildirim – Istanbul, Turkey – 21-3, 12 KOs – fighting Jack Cullen for the vacant IBF International Super-Middleweight Title:

“First of all, thanks to Matchroom and my promoter for the great opportunity again. I don’t want to talk too much but I need a great comeback.

“After the Canelo fight, I opened a new page, I have a new division, a new target. Hopefully everything will go good.” 

Jack Cullen – Littler Lever, England – 19-2-1, 9 KOs – fighting Avni Yildirim for the vacant IBF International Super-Middleweight Title:

“I’m just grateful that I’m back out there and what an opponent I’m fighting. Yildirim is a tough, strong lad and he’s going to come for it – it’s going to be a great fight.

“This is it, if/when I get past him where does it put me. At the end of the day, it’s all about fighting the best and he is what one the best – I appreciate that.

“You’re going to see the same Jack Cullen, but I’ve got a lot of stuff we’ve been working on and it’s going to pay off. There’s no reason why I’m not winning this fight.”

Sandy Ryan – Derby, England – Professional Debut – fighting Kirstie Bavington in a six round Super-Lightweight contest:

“Respect to Kirstie for taking the fight, we know she’s going to come to win. Let’s go.

“My former GB teammates are out in Tokyo, what a week this is going to be – them securing medals for the country and me making my debut on Saturday. I can’t wait, right in it with 6 rounds, Kirstie coming to win, let’s go.

“She [Kirstie] said she’s going to take me to the trenches, so let’s see. I hope she brings that energy Saturday night.” 

Kirstie Bavington – Pensnett, England – 3-1-2, 2 KOs – fighting Sandy Ryan in a six round Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’m excited and ready to go. I’ve been training hard all through lockdown and waiting for this opportunity to come. I’m going to give it all I’ve got and take her to the trenches.” 

“I’m just going to enjoy every moment here, enjoy the whole experience and do the best I can – hopefully make people proud at home.”

LOS ANGELES – BELLATOR MMA’s Featherweight and Lightweight World Champion Patricio Pitbull (32-4) and undefeated top-ranked challenger AJ McKee (17-0) previewed their must-watch Featherweight World Grand Prix Final and 145-pound title fight during a heated press conference on Thursday, just two days before they enter the cage in the main event of Saturday night’s BELLATOR 263 live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) from The Forum in Inglewood, Calif. Click HERE to watch the exchange at the end of today’s press conference.

The culmination of the nearly two-year featherweight tournament featuring the greatest BELLATOR athlete in the history of the promotion and the company’s best homegrown fighter of all-time comes with a one-million-dollar grand prize on the line.

Saturday’s exciting card also features former featherweight title challenger and No. 2 ranked Emmanuel Sanchez versus Denmark’s No. 8 ranked Mads Burnell and lightweight bouts between Usman Nurmagomedov and Manny Muro and Brent Primus and Islam Mamedov. The SHOWTIME telecast opens with a lightweight bout between No. 5 ranked Goiti Yamauchi and Chris Gonzalez.

Here is what Pitbull, McKee and their coaches had to say Thursday:

Patricio Pitbull, BELLATOR Featherweight World Champion & BELLATOR Lightweight World Champion

“This is one of the biggest fights of my career. I have fought several guys that were very tough too. I beat Michael Chandler which was revenge for me. Now is a new opportunity to show my talent.”

“He is very nervous, he doesn’t want to be there in the cage. When your enemy is making a mistake, don’t interrupt him.”

I fought four times against someone like McKee, it was Daniel Straus. I feel comfortable, I have several training partners in my gym like him.”

AJ McKee, No. 1 Ranked BELLATOR Featherweight & Featherweight World Grand Prix Finalist 

“I plan on fighting smart, keeping my range, and making him bring the fight. Everyone goes out there and rushes him, so let’s see what he does.”

“All my training in my entire life has been built up for this moment. I’ve been on big stages since I was a kid. He thinks I’m nervous but I think that’s him trying to self-reflect and push his little self on me. 

“There is definitely a lot on the line. Being undefeated, there is an extra 0, it’s not just the six in that check I am fighting for. I’m fighting to live up my legacy, continue my father’s legacy, and be a champ. It’s now time for me to go get my belt.”

“At 18-0 in the organization there’s nothing left for me in the division. What more can I do? I want to go conquer the 155-pound title as well. I’ve been calling for it, before anyone did it I said I was going to be champ-champ. It’s time for me to go get my goals.”

“For 22 years I’ve been dreaming for this moment. It’s now here so you embrace it and enjoy every second of it, and you continue to build off of it.”

“It’s not going to the championship rounds. He doesn’t want to go championship rounds, I know that. If it comes down to it I can fight five fives. The Pat Curran fight was a perfect example, it was three five minute rounds of easy work. To do another two rounds like that is bread and butter.” 

“Hard work and dedication is the key. My three year old brother is a gym rat already. I want him to fight for the love of the art of fighting and for the love of the sport.”

“You want to know what disrespect was? I asked Pitbull to sign a newspaper for my legacy and to hang up on my wall one day. Disrespect was crossing my picture out.” 

“Remember when you said you were going to beat my ass in front of my father? I’m going to beat your ass in front of your wife and kids. Now the disrespect is out. The cat is out of the bag now.”

Scott Coker, BELLATOR President

“This is a relaunch of Bellator. We have had about 16 months of doing fights in a closed environment where we have had to do fights without an audience. It’s been challenging for the fighters and the staff, and it’s been a grind, but we are finally here.”

“We have announced some great fights coming up not just domestically but worldwide. The fight this Saturday is an unbelievable main event. When I was watching the pairings I was honestly sitting there hoping that A.J. and Pitbull would be the final fight. Here we are 15 months later with $1 million on the line, the belt, and the tournament belt. I wish both fighter’s good luck.”

“Pitbull has been the champ since this A.J. came here, that’s how long he’s been taking care of business. That’s why this fight will be so interesting.”

“Sports need fans, and fans need sports. The fans are the oxygen of the people competing. When there’s no audience it doesn’t mean people can’t compete and do their best, but at the end of the day I do believe the fans can make a difference in the outcome of a fight.”

“This fight made a lot of sense for Los Angeles, and I’m glad we did it here. It’s the right place to have this fight.”

Antonio McKee, Team Bodyshop Head Coach

“We are either psychic or we have some type of prophecy thing going on here. This has all been written since he was three, it has happened step by step. He wrote a million dollar check when he was ten years old and he couldn’t even spell one million. 

We need to make sure we carry ourselves with respect and pride. We want to be respected and we want to be a trendsetter for people who want to do this sport. We want to be the example.

It’s up to him. He has the IQ when he’s out there. He knows what he’s doing, I have a lot of confidence in what he’s doing, and I believe in him. 

We don’t talk smack about Pitbull, we just state facts. My son is younger, he’s longer, he’s stronger, he faster, and he doesn’t have the same mouth on him.”

BELLATOR 263: Pitbull vs. McKee Main Card:

Saturday, July 31 – Live on SHOWTIME

10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT 

Featherweight World Title Main Event: C-Patricio Pitbull (32-4) vs. #1-AJ McKee (17-0)

Featherweight Bout: #2-Emmanuel Sanchez (20-5) vs. #8-Mads Burnell (15-3)

Lightweight Bout: Usman Nurmagomedov (12-0) vs. Manny Muro (12-6)

Lightweight Bout: Brent Primus (10-1) vs. Islam Mamedov (19-1-1)

Lightweight Bout: #5-Goiti Yamauchi (25-5) vs. Chris Gonzalez (6-0)

Preliminary Card:

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

7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

Women’s Flyweight Bout: #10-Vanessa Porto (22-9) vs. Ilara Joanne (9-5)

150 lb. Contract Weight Bout: Gadzhi Rabadanov (15-4-2) vs. Daniel Carey (7-4)

Featherweight Bout: Khasan Magomedsharipov (5-0) vs. Jonathan Quiroz (3-4)

180 lb. Contract Weight Bout: Joshua Jones (10-5) vs. Johnny Cisneros (13-7)

Lightweight Bout: Georgi Karakhanyan (30-11-1) vs. Kiefer Crosbie (8-2)

Bantamweight Bout: Brian Moore (13-7) vs. Jordan Winski (11-2)

190 lb. Contract Weight Bout: Justin Barry (pro debut) vs. Daniel Compton (4-3)

About BELLATOR

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

About SHOWTIME

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

NEWARK, N.J. (July 29, 2021) – Fighters competing on FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, July 31 previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before they enter the ring at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Thursday’s presser featured unbeaten rising heavyweight Michael Coffie and Jonnie Rice, who meet in the main event, and James Martin and New Jersey-native Vito Mielnicki Jr., who meet in a rematch in the co-main event.

The FOX broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with unbeaten middleweight prospect Joey Spencer facing Dan Karpency in the opening attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

MICHAEL COFFIE

“I feel blessed to have this opportunity and it keeps me smiling. I know that this kind of situation is not normal for everyone, but I just have to go out and take advantage of it.

“When I look at Jonnie Rice, I think he might be more durable than Gerald Washington. To me, that just makes this a better fight. He’s big and tall, but so am I. He’s got some good experience with some known prospects and he’s gone the distance. I think it makes for a better fight for the fans. That’s what I want to give them.

“There’s some level of difficulty with a late opponent change. I can’t know for sure if he’s a tougher opponent until I’m in the ring with him. That’s just life though. You have to be prepared for things to go unexpectedly. I’ll be prepared for anything Saturday.

“I think there are definitely big names around the corner for me. Sooner rather than later too. What’s worked out in my favor is the learning curve of this sport. I’ve been able to pick up intricate parts of the sport quickly.

“I already had mental toughness coming into the sport. I’ve just been building it in the gym and then displaying it in the ring. It’s about building up brick-by-brick.

“The hardest part of this sport is the training, but it’s enjoyable to me because it’s what I’m used to. Even if I wasn’t boxing, I’d still be in the gym doing something. The most enjoyable part though is that I get to participate in a sport that I love. I have a lot of years left to give.

“My trainer always told me that every camp, we’re training to fight the champion. It doesn’t matter too much that the opponent was switched. The fighting styles are different, but the stature is similar. No matter who it is in front of me, I would have put in the same effort in the gym.

“After my initial reaction to hearing about Gerald getting sick, I just had to change the focus to Rice. I watched some tape and we made some minor tweaks to what we’re doing. We’re ready to go now and Saturday should be a good night.
“We’re the big guys, so you can expect big shots, blood and fireworks. Make sure you don’t miss it on Saturday night.

“My ability to focus and compartmentalize has helped me the most in my boxing career. I learn what the mission is, install a game plan and then follow it. It’s Marine Corps stuff really.”

JONNIE RICE

“I’m feeling great. I’m very prepared and excited. I’m also grateful for the opportunity. I was upset to hear about Gerald Washington getting sick and I wish him a speedy recovery, but when it’s time for your opportunity, you have to step up.

“I was on standby in the event that something happened to the fighters in the main event. I knew that I always had to be prepared no matter what.

“I have to give it my all on Saturday. I have to do my best to impress everyone. This is my time to show everyone who I am. The biggest thing is that I’m going out there to go to battle.

“I definitely feel like I’m a different kind of opponent than Gerald would have been. It’s going to be an exciting fight because of the unknown. We’re both coming to prove ourselves, so it’s really just about who wants it more.

“The pressure is really on me right now. Gerald was a big name and everyone wanted to see how Coffie did against him. My pride and ego is on the line, but I’m only focused on what I have to gain. Coffie has to prove himself against me now.

“When I got the call, I knew that I was already prepared to step right in. I had just done 20 rounds of sparring with Michael Hunter. That left me with zero doubt in myself. I’m going to do my best to capitalize on those rounds.

“I took a shot from Efe Ajagba that I didn’t see and that would put most people down, but I stayed up. That really gave me a lot of confidence. I’m more focused on my offense because I know I can take that big punch. I’m coming forward with a lot of offense.”

JAMES MARTIN

“I’m looking to deliver another victory on Saturday night. I had a great training camp and everything is on track for a repeat performance.

“He couldn’t handle my pressure. So I know that I have to bring the pressure to him again in this fight. If he’s ready for that, then I know that I can box with him too. I have different styles that I can use.

“This is my hometown too. I’m from Philadelphia, but I’m going to make this my hometown on Saturday night. I’m very confident I can repeat my performance from the first fight.

“My last fight was in the bubble, so it’s going to feel great to fight in front of fans again. It’s just going to help me push forward in this fight.

“I’m coming into this fight feeling great and very strong. I’m ready to win once again. You just have to tune in and watch me get that victory.”

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“I’m very excited for this fight in front of my family and friends. I’m thankful to my team for giving me the opportunity for this kind of fight. I can’t wait to put on a dominant performance Saturday night.

“I think it all comes down to preparation for me. When you have a real camp and you’re ready to go, you have no doubts going into the ring. That’s what I had this time and that’s going to show on Saturday.

“I’ve watched our first fight plenty of times. You will see the best version of me on Saturday night. I wasn’t having any problems with weight heading into that last fight though.

“It’s going to be an electric night in the building. I have a lot of people coming that night. But the only thing on my mind is putting on a great performance. It’s great to be in front of family and friends, but winning is the only thing on my mind.

“I was the one who wanted the rematch immediately. My whole team knows what kind of person I am. I have winners around me. After the last fight, we knew what was next. We went back to the drawing board and I’m as confident as ever.

“We set up a camp house in New Jersey and brought in great sparring. This is the best version of me and I feel great. It’s going to be a great show on Saturday night.

“Everyone go out and get your tickets if you haven’t gotten them yet. It’s going to be a great night of boxing. We have a lot of local talent and guys who are going to bring fireworks.”

#

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.

CONTACTS: Swanson Communications: (202) 783 5500, contact@swansonpr.com
Tim Smith, Premier Boxing Champions: timothy@haymonboxing.com
Andrew Fegyveresi, FOX Sports: Andrew.Fegyveresi@FOX.com
Vernon Cheek, FOX Sports: Vernon.Cheek@FOX.com
TGB Promotions: (818) 817-8001
Matthew Ackermann, Prudential Center: matthewackermann@prucenter.com

MONTREAL (July 29, 2021) – Finally NABF champion and WBC # 1 contender Kim Clavel is back in a ring in Quebec for her first career fight at the IGA Stadium in Montreal on August 28th. The wait was long, the procedures laborious, the requirements numerous, but finally GYM received the approval of its sanitary protocol from both the Montreal Regional Public Health Direction and the Quebec Public Health Direction. GYM would like to thank Mr. Daniel Tierney and his DRSP team for their important collaboration.

Clavel (13-0, 2KO) will face powerful Mexican challenger Noami Arellano Reyes (9-1, 5KO) for the prestigious WBC Silver title in a 10-round showdown. Reyes has won her last five fights including four by knockout. In her last fight in November 2020, she beat former world champion Carina Moreno (25-6-0, 6KO) by decision. Clavel will return to a Quebec ring for the first time since November 2020. In her last outing she took the measure of Barbara Munoz in Cuernavaca, Mexico.

This event will also mark the return of world contender Mikael Zewski (34-2-0, 23KO), who led on points against Egidijus Kavaliauskas in Las Vegas in his last fight in September 2020 before making a mistake in the 8th round. The charismatic Trois-Rivières’ resident has only second defeat in 36 professional fights, and he intends to return to victory and relaunch his international career with an impressive showing in August. For this occasion, Mikael will make the jump to the 154-pound super welterweight division. His opponent will be 23-year-old Dilan “El Tremendo” Loza (15-4-1, 9KO), a tough, young brawler fighting out of Mexicali.

Sébastien Bouchard (19-2, 8KO) has been bothered by injuries in recent years and this will be the first time since 2018 that he will compete in two fights in the same year. In his last outing this past March, he stole the limelight at the Plaza Quebec hotel in Quebec City, fighting Ontario Mario Perez (20-7-5, 12KO) for a spectacular victory by decision. Based on his performance, the Quebecer has shown that he has recovered from his injuries, and he intends to make up for lost time. He will face veteran left-hander, former world contender, American Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (21-8-2, 9KO), fighting out of Los Angeles.

A total of nine fights will be scheduled involving several local hopefuls in action. The spectacular Marie-Pier Houle (3-0-1.1KO) versus. Jeanette Zapata (2-3-0, 0KO) of Mexico, skillful heavyweight Alexis Barrière (2-0, 2KO) against Angel Barron, of Mexico, and the talented Mazlum Akdeniz (13-0-0, 7KO) will have the opportunity to display their talent.

Petar Gavrilovic will make his pro debut. An intriguing matchup of two undefeated opponents, Diizon Belfon (2-0-0, 2KO) and Kevin Menoche (4-0, 4KO) trying to keep their unbeaten records intact. In the opening 4 rounder Samuel Lajoie-Dery will make his debut against MMA specialist Patrick Lafleur (1-3-1, 1KO).

This will be the sixth time that GYM has presented a boxing gala on the center court of the cozy tennis stadium and each time it was a resounding success. Former world champions Joachim Alcine, Jean Pascal, Adonis Stevenson, David Lemieux, and Bermane Stiverne all left their mark there between 2006 and 2010. On the unforgettable evening of June 8, 2007, when in the middle of the IBF super lightweight IBF title Eliminator between Quebecer Hermann Ngoudjo and American Randall Bailey, a deluge flooded the amphitheater, fuses blew and there was darkness for a few minutes, live on the American television channel ESPN2. This event eventually received the 2007 ESPN Boxing Event of the Year.

GYM has obtained authorization to put 5,000 tickets on sale for the occasion, available on ticketmaster.ca or at GYM (514) 383-0666. The prices are $35, $??50, $90 and $150 in the stands. At ringside there are 38 tables of six available for $2,500 which includes a great meal and wine served to guests. Tickets went on sale today at 12 noon / ET.

This event under the stars will also be available on pay-per-view on Canal Indigo, Bell TV, Shaw TV and on Fite.TV for $ 49.99.

Kim Clavel, unbeaten in 13 professional fights has had an incredible journey since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. She was to be the main star of a series of events at the Casino de Montreal to bring her to a world title fight at the end of her fifth fight. This Series resulted in her professional boxing career leading to a whole new dimension. A week before her first fight, the COVID-19 pandemic completely upset her plans. Instead of complaining and doing nothing, she decided to take over her nursing career and put herself at the service of CHSLDs to help the elderly confined to their rooms, facing this pandemic that was sweeping all over the planet. It was with great self-sacrifice and courage that she set about the task for endless days due to the shortage of personnel and without much protection. The enemy being, at that time, fairly unknown in terms of the vaccine’s full impact.

Kim took on this fight quite naturally just wishing to make herself useful without realizing that her story would touch the planet and become a huge source of inspiration during these difficult times:

• First. in May 2020 the North American champion (NABF) received the “Hero of Humanity” award from the World Boxing Council at the same time as did the great international stars Manny Pacquiao and Juan-Carlos Ramirez for their social involvement.

• In June 2020, she received the “Pat Tillman Award” during the annual ESPY gala on ESPN, which commenced in 2014, for being a person with a strong connection to sport and who has served the population with the spirit of service, duty, and altruism. It was the first time that this honor had not been bestowed on an American.

• The following July, ESPN and US promoter Top Rank offered Clavel a fight live on US television against American Natalie Gonzalez, which the Quebecer won by unanimous decision.

• In November 2020 it was the prestigious Time Magazine which honored the champion as a “Top Ten Next Generation Leader for 2020”

• In December 2020, in her last fight she faced Barbra Munoz in Cuernavaca in Mexico where she won her 13th professional fight.

• In January 2021 the WBC, during its annual awards ceremony, awarded 2 important prizes to Kim; that of “Hope of the Year” and that of “The most inspiring athlete”

• Thanks to her new notoriety Kim Clavel was invited to participate in “Big Brother Celebrity” of Noovo where she finished in 3rd position after 13 weeks of reclusion.

Kim Clavel doesn’t shy away from flaunting her “Girl Power” beliefs as she has a deep belief in gender equity no matter what. GYM has always been extremely successful when presenting its events at the Jarry Park Stadium. This morning, Canada finds itself in 11th place at the Olympic Games in Tokyo thanks to 10 medals won, all by women, which demonstrates the major contribution of girls to the sporting success of our country on the international scene. We know that the people in Quebec promote and enact gender equity in all areas of our society. Coming to attend the professional boxing gala where the main star is a woman would be a confirmation of this direction.

We are convinced that Kim Clavel’s return to the ring should generate tremendous interest and will spark major popular excitement! on August 28 at the IGA Stadium, Kim Clavel returns with great pomp and circumstance to the ring, her first fight in Quebec since December 2019. It marks the return of international boxing in Canada as well as the relaunch of GYM activities. If she wins the WBC Silver title, she will become the mandatory contender for WBC champion Yasenia Gomez, whom she could face this year with a victory at IGA Stadium. A special event not to be missed!

FACEBOOK: @groupeyvonmichel

INSTAGRAM: @groupeyvonmichel

TWITTER: @yvonmichelGYM

PHOENIX (July 29, 2021) – Unbeaten two-time world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavídez will square off against former champion José Uzcátegui in a WBC Super Middleweight title eliminator as Benavídez returns to his hometown of Phoenix for the first time in six years in the SHOWTIME main event on Saturday, August 28 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Footprint Center – home of the Phoenix Suns and Mercury.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and will feature the much-awaited return of longtime contender José Benavídez, the older brother of David Benavídez, facing Argentina’s Francisco Emanuel Torres in the 10-round super welterweight co-main event. Kicking off the telecast is undefeated contender Carlos Castro taking on former title challenger Óscar Escandón in a 10-round super bantamweight bout. The Benavídez brothers and Castro hail from Phoenix and have their sights set on impressing their hometown fans.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Sampson Boxing and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available for purchase through Ticketmaster.com.

“I am happy to be bringing David ‘El Bandera Roja’ Benavidez back to his hometown to fight after so many years away,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “It is going to be a sensational welcome party for him and all the fans.”

Still just 24-years-old, Benavídez (24-0, 21 KOs) enters this fight having knocked out his last four opponents, including a September 2019 knockout of two-time super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell. Most recently, he earned stoppage victories over Roamer Alexis Angulo in August 2020 and Ronald Ellis in March of this year. Benavídez is trained by his father José Sr., alongside his brother and former title challenger, José Jr. In 2017, he became the youngest super middleweight champion in boxing history by defeating Ronald Gavril on SHOWTIME at just 20 years old. Representing his native Phoenix, Ariz., Benavídez went from a 15-year-old prodigy sparring with Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin, to world title contender with a 10-fight knockout streak from 2015 through 2017, including a highlight-reel knockout of Rogelio Medina with a seven-punch combination that earned him his first title opportunity.

“I’m super excited to fight in front of my hometown fans,” said Benavídez. “It’s a dream come true for me to come back home as a two-time world champion. I’m training for Uzcategui like he’s a world champ because he has a lot of experience and he’s a hungry fighter. I know that he needs this win, but I won’t let that happen. I’m staying dedicated and motivated to win on August 28 on SHOWTIME and I want to look impressive doing it in order to get even bigger and better fights in the future.”

Born in Venezuela and fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico, Uzcátegui (31-4, 26 KOs) captured a 168-pound world title in March of 2018 by stopping veteran contender Andre Dirrell after eight rounds. The 30-year-old put himself in position to fight for a title with four-straight stoppage victories from 2015 through 2016, including a win over then-unbeaten Julius Jackson. Since losing the title to unbeaten champion Caleb Plant in January 2019, Uzcátegui has rebounded to win three of his last four fights, including knockout wins in 2021 over Jaime Hernandez Lopez and Josue Obando.

“I’m excited to be back on the big stage for this fight,” said Uzcátegui. “I know what I’m up against with Benavídez. He’s a great fighter, and that’s my biggest motivation. This is going to be a war and I can’t wait to give the people a great fight. Both of us come to brawl, so this is going to be a classic on August 28.”

The 28-year-old Benavídez (27-1, 18 KOs) is the older brother of main event headliner David and returns to fight in his hometown of Phoenix for the first time in six years. A long-established contender, Benavídez will return to action for the first time since dropping a 147-pound title showdown to Terence Crawford in October 2018. Benavídez had previously earned wins over contenders such as Mauricio Herrera, Francisco Santana and Frank Rojas on his way to that world title opportunity.

“I’m really excited to be back in the ring after being out for a while,” said Benavidez. “I feel more mature, motivated and stronger than ever. Fighting alongside my brother and in my hometown, is really a dream come true. I’m really looking forward to making a tremendous comeback. It doesn’t matter who they put in front of me, I guarantee that I’m going to take them out. No one is going to want to miss this night, because me and my brother are bringing the fireworks.”

A native of boxing-rich Buenos Aires, Argentina, Torres (17-3, 5 KOs) enters this fight the winner of his last nine contests dating back to 2018. The 31-year-old will fight in the U.S. for the third time on August 28, having scored stateside victories over Cleotis Pendarvis in August 2020 and Louis Hernandez in February of this year. Torres most recently won a unanimous decision over Alexi Rivera in June as he prepares for his toughest fight to date against Benavídez.

“I’m very pumped up for this fight,” said Torres. “I want to thank my whole team for this opportunity to participate in such an important fight. This is a great chance for me to go to the next level against a great fighter who’s had an exceptional career. I will work very hard to get the victory on August 14 and raise high the flag of Argentina.”

Castro (26-0, 11 KOs) has climbed the rankings since turning pro in 2012 as he seeks a shot at a super bantamweight championship. The Phoenix-native added two victories in 2020, defeating Jesus Ruiz in February before stopping longtime contender Cesar Juarez in four rounds in July. Castro was coming off a 2019 campaign that saw him score three victories, including 10-round unanimous decision triumphs over former title challenger Genesis Servania and veteran contender Mario Diaz.

“I’m very grateful for this opportunity to fight an excellent opponent in Escandón,” said Castro. “I’m very motivated to put on a great performance in front of my hometown fans. On August 28, I’m going to be ready to showcase all of my skills and hard work in the ring so I leave with my hand raised.”

A native of Ibague, Colombia, Escandón (26-5, 18 KOs) has faced a slew of top contenders and champions including featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr. and super bantamweight champion Brandon Figueroa, plus hard-hitting contender Tugstsogt Nyambayar. Escandón captured an interim title in 2016 when he knocked out Robinson Castellanos to earn his world title shot against Russell. Most recently, Escandón scored a first-round knockout over previously unbeaten contender Jhack Tepora in December of 2019.

“I’m very focused on training for this fight because I know a win can lead me back to another world title opportunity,” said Escandón. “Castro is a good young fighter who has a solid jab and can move. But I think he’s the perfect opponent for me. There are a lot of things we can do to win this fight and I can’t wait to go in there on August 28 and show it.”

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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.

WORCESTER, Mass. (July 29, 2021) – Former Team USA member Bobby “BH3” Harris III (2-0-1, 1 KO) is refocused and returning to fight for the first time in 3 ½ years on August 14th in his hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts.

“New England’s Future VII, presented by Rivera Promotions Entertainment (RPE) in association with Shearns Boxing Promotions, will feature three title fights and talented local prospects at the famed Worcester Palladium.

Harris, a former 2-time national amateur champion and World Games silver medalist, is matched against Honduran Juan Celin Zapata (6-18-2, 4 KOs) in a 4-round super middleweight match.

“After I fought a draw in my last fight (Feb. 10, 2018),” Harris explained his absence from the ring, “I took time off to think about what I wanted to do. I became a father (Bobby Harris IV) and enjoyed spending time with my family. I enjoyed spending time with my son and fiancé (Andrea) and our family has grown a lot. I grew a lot in the past three years, and I never left the gym. I realized boxing is who I am and decided to get back in the ring. In the amateurs, you don’t get to pick your opponent, and I usually fought the best guy. But it’s not that way in the pros. Now, I’m focused more on fighting and not the hype like I did my first three fights.”

Not only was a member of the 2015 USA Boxing Team – his teammates included Claressa Shields, Shakur Stevenson and Damani Rock – he’s the son of a gifted boxer, Bobby Harris, who was a 4-time national champion and 1992 US Olympic Team alternate, before the gifted heavyweight turned pro and recorded a 20-2-1 (13 KOs) record between 1993-99.

hARRIS WORLD CUP GROUP.jpg
2015 Team USA at World Cup in Ecuador. Bobby Harris III is on the far right in the second row

“Growing up in Worcester,” ‘BH3’ said, “my dad was one of the most popular people in the city. People called him the Mayor of Worcester. It was pretty cool at first, but I realized I had to make my own name in boxing, instead of just the son of a great boxer. We have the same name, but we’re two different people, who look at the sport differently, studying differently, but he’s still in my corner after all these years.”

Harris is another example of the quality boxers at the Worcester Boy’s & Girls Club who learned from “The Godfather of Worcester Boxing,” National Golden Gloves Hall of Fame trainer Carlos Gonzalez. Harris’ father, Kendrick Ball, Rocky Gonzalez and Carlos form the group in his corner that “BH3” most respects in boxing.

Harris hopes to fight every two months, which shouldn’t be a problem, because his close friend from childhood is RPE matchmaker A.J. Rivera, who has matched all of Harris’ fights to date. “I think I can climb the ladder fast and be a world champion in three to five years,” Harris concluded. “I’ll only be 28-29 and hitting my prime. I’m excited to get back in the ring and fight in front of my family and friends again.”

“Bobby Harris III is a great kid, he’s like my nephew,” promoter Jose Antonio Rivera commented. “He doesn’t take short cuts and understands the sacrifices needed to make it in the sport of boxing. Seeing him take some time off to evaluate his career and then decide to comeback shows he still has hunger for the sport.

“I think it took him a little bit to understand the difference between amateurs and pros and now we are going to have the pleasure of seeing him showcase his fans in his hometown. The sky is the limited for Bobby and I am glad he finally to to see it for himself.”

Undefeated Hartford (CT) cruiserweight Richie “Popeye The Sailor” Rivera (19-0, 14 KOs), promoted by Star Boxing, will fight Mexican challenger Ernesto “Gatti” Berrospe Rivas (11-17, 12 KOs) in the 8-round main event for the vacant NBA Americas Cruiserweight Championship. Rivera, who made his pro debut on an RPE event at the Worcester Palladium on January 19, 2017, returns to fight New England for the first time since December 13, 2019.

Former University of New Haven basketball star, New London’s (CT) undefeated heavyweight Cassius “C.O.G.” Chaney (20-0, 14 KOs), who is promoted by Main Events, will fight in the 10-round co-featured event against former NABA Heavyweight Champion Shawdell Terell Winters (13-5, 12 KOs).

2012 Puerto Rico Olympian Enrique Collazo (15-1-1, 10 KOs) will fight in an 8-rounder for the vacant NBA Americas Super Middleweight Championship against TBA.

Southbridge’s (MA) Wilfredo “Sucra” Pagan (6-1, 3 KOs) meets Carlos Marrero III (2-6-1), of Connecticut, in a 6-round fight for the vacant New England junior welterweight title.

Also scheduled to fight in 4-round bouts include Worcester heavyweight Bryan Daniels (5-1, 3 KOs), a 2-time New England Golden Gloves champion, vs. Corey Morey (1-4); Hartford bantamweight and 3-time New England Golden Gloves and 2-time Ringside Nationals champion Angel “Set It Off” Gonzalez (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, Worcester junior middleweight Eslih Owuso (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. Eean Chappell (0-1-1), Boca Raton, Florida junior middleweight Jonsiel “TG” Castro (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Anthony Everett (1-8), Worcester cruiserweight and 3-time New England Golden Gloves champion Demek “Hightower” Edmonds (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA.

Card subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $70.00 (ringside), $55.00 (mezzanine) and $35.00 (general admission), are on

sale and available to purchase at www.ThePalladium.net, the Palladium box office, or by

contacting Jose Rivera (elgallojar@gmail.com/508.864.6954), AJ Rivera

(anthoneerivera@gmail.com/774.272.2269) or any of the fighters.

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

poster.jpg
INFORMATION:

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

New York, NY (July 28, 2021) Top heavyweight prospect Bakhodir Jalolov, of Uzbekistan, will premiere at the Olympics in Tokyo tonight, competing in the super heavyweight division. He will face Abdullayev Mahammad, of Azerbajian, in the tournament’s Round of 16 preliminaries. Jalolov’s bout will broadcast as part of Session 11, which begins at 10:00pm ET / 7:00pm PT, streaming on the NBC Olympics Website. He is expected to be in the ring by 11:00pm ET / 8:00pm PT.

Standing six-foot-six, the 27-year-old Jalolov, who holds a professional record of 8-0 with eight knockouts, is taking a break from the paid ranks to return to the Olympic stage seeking gold medal glory. Jalolov previously competed at the 2016 Olympics, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He now has the distinguished honor of being the first athlete in the history of Uzbekistan to be the country’s flag bearer at the Opening Ceremonies twice.

Born in Sariosiyo, Uzbekistan, the southpaw Jalolov has garnered tremendous accolades as an amateur, winning gold medals at the Asian Amateur Boxing Championships three times (2017, 2019 and 2021), World Cup Tournament, Liventsev Memorial Tournament, Great Silk Way Tournament, and Duisenkul Shopokov Memorial Tournament in 2015, and at the World Cup of Petroleum Countries Tournament in 2014, as well as winning numerous National championships. During his amateur career, Jalolov also focused on his education, earning a Master’s Degree in Sports Science.

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Cleveland, OH (July 28, 2021)–Tim VanNewhouse has announced the signing of highly touted 21-year old Thomas Wu to a managerial contract.

Wu, who resides in Arcadia, CA, is of Chinese and Vietnamese heritage.  He is a four-time amateur
national champion, and had an overall amateur mark of 85-11.

“Aside from his incredible talent, he brings an outside ring presence that
most fighters are striving for,” said VanNewhouse, who believes that Wu has
all the intangibles to be a star along with the requisite talent to succeed
in the pro ranks.

In 2018 Thomas Wu  created the floating ball challenge on social media that
garnered over 100 million combined impressions on ESPN and Sportscenter,
Barstool Sports and Ridiculousness.

VanNewhouse stated, “In the fight game we tend to get excited about the
next big prospect and most of the time it’s too early to tell how far
someone will go.  However, I can’t help but to be enthusiastic about this
kid. He has star-power looks, is charismatic and has all the ability I look
for in a young aspiring champion. I’m thrilled to be working with his team.”

Wu, who graduated from Temple City High says, “I’m excited to be working with
Tim and the team he is building for me to take the next step in my career.
This is a thrilling new journey for my father and I to be on. We worked
hard to get to these next steps”.

To help get prepped for the pro-ranks Wu competed in his first pro-style
exhibition where he fought against MTK Globals Australian pro boxer Michael
Pengue.  Official Infamous Wu vs Micheal Pengue Victory 8 Boxing “Legends of Hoan
Kiem” <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9uuOjRmGQA>

“The past several years we have had many offers to turn professional from
guys like PBC, Cameron Dunkin and Top Rank, ” said his father, Tommy, who
trains him. “But it’s still been a challenge for us to find the right
person to take my son into the pros. Tim is someone I have followed and
known for years and he’s that guy for us. We trust in him and going forward
he will guide us into making the best business decisions for us in boxing.”

An announcement will be forthcoming on Wu’s professional debut, and who
will be promoting him.

Wu is the second signing by VanNewhouse since his resignation from Split-T Management this past spring. 

His first signing was two-time U.S. amateur champion Najee Lopez.  VanNewhouse is regarded as one of the

sport’s rising managers and among the best talent scouts in America.

# # #

Former amateur star Sandy Ryan is promising to make a big statement on her introduction to the paid ranks this Saturday at Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex by becoming the first person to stop Kirstie Bavington, live on Before The Bell. 
 
The 27-year-old Derby boxer, who claimed gold at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games and silver at the 2014 World Championships, had been one of Team GB’s leading medal hopes for the rescheduled Tokyo Games before deciding to turn professional with STN Sports in March. 
 
Following a glittering amateur career, Ryan will start life in the pro ranks campaigning at Super-Lightweight with trainer Clifton Mitchell, and the Midlands talent is ready to target World Titles with an ultimate ambition of fighting at the home of her beloved Derby County Football Club.
 
“To be successful and one of the best female fighters in the world is my goal,” said Ryan. “I’ve got the right team around me and I believe I can achieve that. I was going to turn pro after the Olympics but when they were postponed, I took the decision to turn over. I feel like it’s the right time and I’m ready to go all the way. 
 
“I was on the GB squad for nine years. I went to every major tournament besides the Olympic Games. I went to the World Championships and won a silver medal, European bronze, European Games bronze and Commonwealth Games gold medal. All this experience will help me massively in the pro game. 
 
“Each day that passes I get more and more excited. I can’t wait for my debut, every day I visualise my ring walk, getting in the ring and smoking the girl.
 
“I said to my manager, ‘I don’t want a walkover, get me a good opponent’, and they delivered with Kirstie. I looked on YouTube and watched a few of her fights, she seems game and she’s coming to win which is exactly what I want. I didn’t want to do a four rounder in my first fight so I’m going straight into six rounds.
 
“I’ve done this for many years, but the pro game is very different. Every fight and camp I will learn and develop, and the journey is only just beginning. I want to be up there, in years to come when people talk about women’s boxing, I want my name in the same bracket as Katie Taylor.
 
“I have massive dreams to fight for a World Title at Pride Park, the home of Derby County FC. First things first I want to make a big statement at Fight Camp. The girl has never been stopped before so let’s see!”
 
Ryan vs. Bavington is part of a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Adrian Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs), WBA Featherweight World Champion Xu Can (18-2, 3 KOs) defends his Title against Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a massive showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, former World Title challenger Avni Yildirim (21-3, 12 KOs) aims to bounce back from his loss to pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez when he takes on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea when he takes on Rico Mueller (28-3-1, 19 KOs) and Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs).

London, UK (18 July 2021) Dynamite fisted heavyweight talent Tommy Welch aims to do a seek and destroy mission in Italy this Saturday (31st July) when he has his fourth professional fight.

Welch, 26, fights in Ancona on the Adriatic coast when he takes on Poland’s Petr Frolich over four rounds as he looks to maintain his perfect record.

The Brighton puncher has got off to an explosive start in the pros having dispatched of his three previous opponents inside five total rounds of action.

He fought last month in Brussels and registered a brutal second round demolition of Gyorgy Kutasi after detonating his heavy punches on the Hungarian.

Welch has previously boxed and won in Milan when he was an amateur in an England v Italy international tournament in 2016 and following England’s recent heartbreak against Italy in the Euro Championships, Welch is keen to conquer once again.

“I’m looking to get the job done in quick style, this will be seek and destroy, no hanging about, rob the bank and leave,” stormed Welch.

“Frolich is another opponent for me to sharpen my tools on and get him out of there when he’s ready to go. I’m feeling great and looking forward to doing the job in real style and leaving Italy with a W and KO on my record.

“I’ve not stopped training since the win over Kutasi last month. I’ve had some great sparring with Nick Webb [who fights Fabio Wardley for the English title next month] and Joel Djeko [who recently challenged Tony Yoka for the European Union title in March] so I’m fit, sharp and ready for Frolich.”

Welch said he would also be dedicating the fight to his friend Sebastian Eubank who sadly passed away earlier this month.

He said, “I’ll be taking Seb’s fighting spirit with me into the ring in Italy and I’ll be fighting in memory of him. A wonderful friend and talent taken too early.”

Tommy Welch vs Dmitrij Kalinovskij | FULL FIGHT
For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports

Los Angeles, CA (July 27, 2021) ‘The Golden Boy’, Boxing Legend Oscar De La Hoya of East Los Angeles, CA and former UFC Superstar, Vitor ‘The Phenom’ Belfort of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil met with the Southern California media Today, Tuesday, July 27 at STAPLES Center Star Garden for the Kick-Off Press Conference ahead of their highly anticipated battle set presented by Triller Fight Club on Saturday, September 11 at the venue.

Oscar De La Hoya

“These exhibitions that we’re seeing are becoming a circus, I want no part of that. And that’s why this fight is a real, sanctioned fight and not an exhibition. Everybody who knows me, I’ve never been in a boring fight. I go out there and fight. An exhibition isn’t us, Vitor and I have too much at stake. When I see Belfort I can see in his eyes how proud he is of his legacy and I feel the same way too and I respect that.”

“While I respect you brother, (Belfort), I can tell you one thing, we are going to kick the shit out of each other, that’s one thing for sure.”

“This is not a game, I literally said if we’re going to do this, let’s do this for real. Let’s not do a song and dance or these exhibitions that we’re tired of.”

“I’ve been in top challenges all my life, I’ve basically been fighting since I was five years old. I’ve had every challenge in the book and I’ve fought the very best, from Pacquiao to Mayweather to Hopkins to Julio Cesar Chavez. I wanted a different challenge and that’s what Vitor Belfort presents. A challenge that’s going to take my training and my mentality to a whole new level.”

“Prediction: Knockout!”

Vitor Belfort

“When you step in the ring you want the wars. I’m coming into the sport that Oscar has mastered and I’ve learned in training boxing at a different level. My style is to come as a lion and that’s what I’m going to do, no changes now.”

“There’s a lot of mutual respect between the both of us but once the bell rings it’s war. My heart, not my size, will make the difference in this fight. In my mind I can beat any man and that’s how I feel about Oscar. I know he’s left-handed and has a great jab and I have to prepare for that. This is really the Best vs. the Best!”

“I never look at the odds for my fights. I make my own prediction work for me.”

“Prediction: Knockout!”

DE LA HOYA vs. BELFORT is presented by Triller Fight Club and will be broadcast globally on FITE, iNDemand and through all leading Cable, Satellite and Telco Providers in the U.S. and Canada. The professional boxing match will test the fighting skills and will of these two greats in combat sports history, competing in the light heavyweight division in a scheduled eight-round bout.

De La Hoya vs. Belfort is the second event Triller Fight Club has promoted at STAPLES Center, the first being Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr. on November 28, 2020. The fight was boxing’s biggest pay-per-view event of the year garnering over 1.6 million buys. 

FITE, the world’s premier streaming PPV platform for sports and entertainment recently acquired by TrillerNet, will handle worldwide live pay-per-view streaming distribution online for the September 11 event, and via FITE mobile and Smart TV apps, game controllers and all major OTT devices as well as power TrillerFightClub.com.

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 PPV provider for the De La Hoya vs. Belfort fight. Fans will be able to order the event on PPV through their existing cable, satellite, and telco PPV providers across the U.S. and Canada.

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.

This marks the third time that FITE, iNDemand and Triller will have partnered to bring value-packed, world-class PPV events to boxing, music, and entertainment fans. iNDemand also served as the cable, satellite, and telco PPV distributor for Triller Fight Club’s November 2020 Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr. event (which landed as the 8th best PPV event of all time), as well as the April 17, 2021 Jake Paul vs. Ben Askren event. FITE handled global digital sales for both events and powered the TysononTriller and TrillerFightClub sites.

The PPV retail price for the event is $49.99 (U.S. & Canada) plus processing fee. Fans outside North America can check the FITE link at https://www.fite.tv/watch/oscar-de-la-hoya-vs-vitor-belfort/2p9su/   for international pricing.

**HOW TO WATCH THE SEPTEMBER 11, 2021, TRILLER FIGHT CLUB PPV EVENT**

TV: Cable, satellite & telco PPV providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Fios, and Optimum (U.S.), among others, as well as leading operators.

Worldwide Streaming: FITE.TV and all FITE mobile, Smart TV, game controller and OTT apps as well as the event microsite hub: TrillerFightClub.

In addition to being a co-owner, Snoop also provides strategic counsel to Triller Fight Club, helping to select fighters and musical acts for the show-stopping events. An entertainment expert who has successfully maneuvered through a range of projects in a variety of different fields, Snoop secured his spot as a fan favorite during Triller’s first sporting event, Tyson vs. Jones.

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 Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.

It’s ON.

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.

Social Media

Triller Fight Club

Instagram: @Triller, @TrillerFightClub

Twitter: @Triller, @TrillerFight

Facebook: @TrillerFightClub

Website www.Triller.co

Oscar De La Hoya

Instagram: @OscarDeLaHoya

Twitter: @OscarDeLaHoya

Facebook: @OscarDeLaHoya

Vitor Belfort

Instagram: @VitorBelfort

Twitter: @VitorBelfort

Facebook: @VitorThePhenom

Staples Center

Instagram: @staplescenterLA

Twitter: @STAPLESCenter

Facebook: @STAPLESCenter

Website: www.staplescenter.com

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to T-Mobile Arena with a thrilling pair of world championship bouts. The Ultimate Fighter coaches collide when UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski defends his title against No. 2 ranked contender Brian Ortega. The co-main event will see UFC women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko go for her sixth consecutive title defense when she meets No. 3 ranked contender Lauren Murphy. Also in a highly anticipated rematch, Nick Diaz returns against former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler in a five-round thriller.

UFC^® 266: VOLKANOVSKI vs. ORTEGA will take place Saturday, Sept. 25 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. All bouts will be simulcast on ESPN+ in English and Spanish beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 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^® 266: VOLKANOVSKI vs. ORTEGA tickets will go on sale Friday, July 30 at 10 a.m. PT and are available for purchase at axs.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, July 28 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, July 29 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Volkanovski (22-1, fighting out of Windang, NSW, Australia) aims to continue his run atop the featherweight division with another dominant performance. The former rugby player turned MMA star holds impressive victories over Max Holloway (twice), Jose Aldo and Chad Mendes. Volkanovski now has his sights set on getting the last laugh against Ortega and securing his second successful title defense.

Submission wizard Ortega (15-1 1NC, fighting out of Los Angeles, Calif.) turned heads in his last outing by putting on a striking clinic against Chan Sung Jung in October. A talented Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, he has also netted spectacular wins over Frankie Edgar, Cub Swanson and Clay Guida. Ortega now aims to settle the score with Volkanovski and achieve his dream of capturing UFC gold.

Shevchenko (21-3, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan) has proven herself to be among the most dominant champions in UFC history. A decorated kickboxer, she has delivered memorable victories against Jessica Eye, Holly Holm and Julianna Pena. Shevchenko now looks to continue building her legacy with another show-stealing title defense.

Murphy (15-4, fighting out of Houston, Texas) intends to shock the world by becoming the first fighter to defeat Shevchenko at 125 pounds. During her UFC run, the 11-year MMA veteran has earned notable victories over Joanne Calderwood, Andrea Lee and Mara Romero Borella. Murphy is now gunning to dethrone Shevchenko and become only the third women’s flyweight champion in UFC history.

MMA superstar Diaz (26-9 2NC, fighting out of Stockton, Calif.) returns to the Octagon for the first time in over six years. Throughout his epic career, he has secured sensational wins against former UFC champions BJ Penn, Frank Shamrock and Lawler. Diaz now intends to remind fans he’s still among the best in the world by taking out Lawler a second time.

Lawler (28-15 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) hopes to even the score with Diaz 17 years following their first encounter. The former UFC welterweight champion has delivered thrilling knockouts against Rory MacDonald, Jake Ellenberger and Josh Koscheck, and he now aims to secure a measure of revenge against Diaz and begin climbing the ladder back to the belt.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• In a pivotal heavyweight contenders’ bout, No. 4 ranked Curtis Blaydes (14-3 1NC, fighting out of Chicago, Ill.) takes on No. 6 Jairzinho Rozenstruik (12-2, fighting out of Paramaribo, Suriname)
• No. 1 ranked Jessica Andrade (21-9, fighting out of Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) faces No. 5 Cynthia Calvillo (9-2-1, fighting out of San Jose, Calif.) in an exciting clash of women’s flyweight contenders
• No. 6 ranked bantamweight contender Marlon Moraes (23-8-1, fighting out of Parkland, Fla. by way of Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) aims for another highlight-reel finish when he squares off with surging No. 10 Merab Dvalishvili (13-4, fighting out of Long Island, N.Y. by way of Tbilisi, Georgia)
• In a pivotal heavyweight contenders’ bout, No. 7 ranked Shamil Abdurakhimov (20-5, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) faces No. 10 Chris Daukaus (11-3, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.)
• Rising bantamweights meet when Ricky Simon (18-3, fighting out of Vancouver, Wash.) faces Timur Valiev (18-2 1NC, fighting out of Toms River, N.J. by way of Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia)
• Manon Fiorot (7-1, fighting out of Nice, France) hopes for another impressive finish when she takes on submission ace Mayra Bueno Silva (7-1-1, fighting out of Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil) at flyweight
• Undefeated Uros Medic (7-0, fighting out of Anchorage, Alaska by way of Novi Sad, Serbia) meets Jalin Turner (10-5, fighting out of Fontana, Calif.) in an intriguing lightweight bout
• In a clash of Dana White’s Contender Series veterans Karl Roberson (9-4, fighting out of Neptune, N.J.) takes on Nick Maximov (6-0, fighting out of Stockton, Calif.) at middleweight

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

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 625 million fans and 155 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 approximately 900M TV households across more than 175 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 70 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About T-Mobile Arena

T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city’s first professional sports team. The venue, named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine’s 2018 Arena Power List as well as the “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar Magazine in 2016, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Industry-leading architect Populous designed T-Mobile Arena to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards for LEED® Gold Certification. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit T-MobileArena.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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 13.8 million subscribers.  

Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $59.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu for $13.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $19.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).

About ESPN

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

LAS VEGAS (July 27, 2021) — Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions has announced that its schedule event this Thursday in Mexico, slated to be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, has been canceled due to COVID-19 issues.

“COVID-19 is on the rise, and we needed to protect our fighters, as well as respect the local boxing commission’s restrictions,” RJJ Boxing CEO and co-founder Keith Veltre said. “We fully expect to continue promoting shows again in Mexico after conditions there improve.”

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

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: NABF super flyweight champion, IBF #8 and WBC # 14 Jade “Hurricane” Bornea (15-0, 10 KOs); two-time world title challenger, bantamweight “Mighty” Aston Palicte (26-4-1, 22 KOs); NABF welterweight champion, WBC #15 and Santiago “Somer” Dominguez (24-0, 18 KOs); former NABA welterweight champion Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda (17-3, 8 KOs), former Interim World middleweight title challenger John “The Phenom” Vera (20-1, 12 KO), unbeaten super middleweight prospect Juan “Just Business” Barajas (11-0-1, 7 KOs), and former WBC World Youth heavyweight titlist Alexander “The Great” Flores (18-3-1, 16 KOs).

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 200 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 combats 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.

NEWARK, N.J. (July 27, 2021) – Rising unbeaten heavyweight Michael Coffie will face Jonathan Rice in the main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes, this Saturday, July 31 from Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Coffie was originally scheduled to face former title challenger Gerald Washington, who was forced to withdraw after a positive COVID-19 test.

The FOX broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see James Martin battle welterweight prospect and New Jersey-native Vito Mielnicki Jr. in an eight-round rematch in the co-main event and unbeaten prospect Joey Spencer take on Dan Karpency in an eight-round showdown.

At 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT following the FOX broadcast will be FS1 PBC Fight Night topped by veteran contender and Olympic bronze medalist Andre Dirrell competing for the second time at light heavyweight as he faces Philadelphia’s Christopher Brooker in a 10-round fight. The FS1 telecast also features unbeaten featherweight prospect Maliek Montgomery dueling Ángel Contreras in a 10-round attraction and top welterweight prospect Paul Kroll squaring off against Justin DeLoach in a 10-round showdown.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.com.

The non-televised undercard will feature unbeaten Patterson, New Jersey-native Norman Neely (8-0, 7 KOs) in a six-round heavyweight attraction against Texas’ Juan Torres (6-3-1, 3 KOs), Philadelphia-born super lightweight contender Karl Dargan (19-1, 9 KOs) battling Los Angeles-native Ivan Delgado (13-3-2, 6 KOs) in an eight-round attraction, Maryland’s Keeshawn Williams (7-0-1, 2 KOs) taking on Missouri’s Noah Kidd (6-3-2, 5 KOs in a six-round welterweight tilt and Newark’s own Michael Anderson (20-3-1, 14 KOs) in a six-round welterweight bout facing Tennessee’s DeMarcus Rogers (14-3-1, 5 KOs).

Rounding out the night of action is Denville, New Jersey’s Nicky Vitone looking to remain unbeaten in a four-round welterweight fight against Jordan Rosario, unbeaten Philadelphia-born prospect Quadir Albright taking on Jared Tallent in a six-round super welterweight tilt and the pro debut of Avenel, New Jersey’s Malik Nelson in a four-round super featherweight duel versus Alejandro Ramirez.

A Marine Corps veteran who picked up boxing after returning from overseas, Coffie (12-0, 9 KOs) quickly impressed in amateur tournaments enough to earn sparring assignments with Deontay Wilder and Adam Kownacki. The 35-year-old was born in the Bronx, but now trains in Orlando, Florida. Coffie broke through in 2020 by stopping previously unbeaten Luis Pena in the fifth round of their August matchup before earning a TKO over Joey Abell in November. Coffie added a highlight-reel knockout over previously unbeaten Darmani Rock in January of this year.

Born in South Carolina and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Rice (13-6-1, 9 KOs) won six of seven fights from 2018 through 2019. The 34-year-old will look to bounce back from a pair of losses in 2020 against unbeatens Efe Ajagba and Demsey McKean. In a pro career that dates back to 2014, the blemishes on Rice’s records have all come against previously unbeaten fighters as he looks to offer a stiff test to the so far undefeated Coffie.

An accomplished veteran contender in the 168-pound division, Dirrell (34-2-1, 25 KOs) returns to the ring for the second time at light heavyweight after a successful debut in December 2021 in which he knocked out Juan Ubaldo Cabrera in round five. The Flint, Michigan native and brother of two-time champion Anthony, Dirrell won a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympics and lost narrow decisions in world title fights against Carl Froch and James DeGale. Dirrell will be opposed by the 30-year-old Philadelphia-native Brooker (16-7, 6 KOs), who has scored a pair of victories so far in 2021. Prior to those two triumphs, Brooker’s previous two outings saw him drop a June 2019 contest to Michael Seals and defeat Lanell Bellows in September 2018.

The 25-year-old Montgomery (10-0, 10 KOs) turned pro in 2017 after an impressive amateur career that included two national Golden Gloves titles and victories over recognizable names such as Edgar Berlanga, Keeshawn Williams and Joseph Adorno, to name a few. The Macon, Georgia born fighter has stopped all 10 of his opponents inside of the distance in his pro career to date. He will face the 27-year-old Contreras (10-4-2, 6 KOs), who most recently fought unbeaten prospect Jalan Walker to a draw in April. The Monterrey, Mexico native’s previous outing had seen him drop a narrow split-decision against super bantamweight contender Ramon Cardenas in February.

A decorated U.S. amateur from the fighter-rich city of Philadelphia, Kroll (8-0, 6 KOs) turned pro in August 2018 with a first-round stoppage of DeAngelo Alcorn. The 26-year-old ended his first four fights inside of two rounds before going the distance and beating then unbeaten Shinard Bunch in August 2019. Most recently, Kroll’s 2020 campaign saw him score a TKO victory over Marcel Rivers in January and a unanimous decision over Luke Santamaria on FS1 in October. He will be opposed by DeLoach (19-5, 10 KOs), who will look to return to the win column after dropping his last contest to unbeaten welterweight Eimantas Stanionis in November. The 27-year-old from Augusta, Georgia put together an impressive run in 2017, defeating three-straight unbeaten fighters in Dillon Cook, Junior Castillo and Domonique Dolton, before knocking out Christopher Pearson in 2017.

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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.

Tickets for Anthony Joshua’s huge Heavyweight World Title showdown with Oleksandr Uysk at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday September 25 will go on sale next week. 

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets via StubHub  (www.stubhub.co.uk) from midday on Monday August 2.

General Sale tickets can be purchased via StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk) from midday on Tuesday August 3.

Tickets are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £400, £600 and £2000 (VIP).

Access ticketing can be purchased via Tottenham Hotspur by calling +44 344 844 0102, pressing option 1 then 5, from midday on Tuesday 3 August. Once you have completed your purchase, we shall contact you within 48 hours to confirm how you can provide proof of eligibility for your accessible ticket(s). Proof of eligibility will then need to be provided to us by Friday 27 August, or your ticket(s) may be cancelled.

Premium options for this event will also be sold via Tottenham Hotspur. Pricing for our unrivalled packages will start from £225 per person (incl. VAT). To ensure you are kept updated with availability and information on how to purchase, please ensure you have registered your details here: https://www.tottenhamhotspur.com/tickets/premium-experiences/joshua-vs-usyk/. Further information will then be communicated later this week. 

Joshua (24-1, 22 KOs) dominated and then floored IBF Mandatory Challenger Kubrat Pulev to score a brutal ninth-round knockout at The SSE Arena, Wembley last time out in December in what was his first fight on UK soil since he stopped Alexander Povetkin in seven explosive rounds at Wembley Stadium back in September 2018. 

The Heavyweight division’s biggest attraction has sold-out stadiums and arenas around the world and now ‘AJ’ returns to the Capital for his fifth stadium fight looking to create more history as he faces his latest WBO Mandatory Challenger at the new state of the art home of Spurs, following in the footsteps of Frank Bruno MBE who defeated Joe Bugner in Matchroom Boxing’s first Heavyweight promotion at the old White Hart Lane in October 1987.

Ukrainian pound-for-pound star Usyk (18-0, 13 KOs) made the move to the Heavyweight division after dominating at Cruiserweight, ending his extraordinary spell at 200lbs as the Undisputed king with a phenomenal run of victories in his opponent’s backyard against Marco Huck, Mairis Briedis, Murat Gassiev and Tony Bellew. 

The 2012 Olympic Gold medallist began his assault on the Heavyweight division by retiring Chazz Witherspoon in seven rounds at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago in October 2019 and continued his bid to become a two-weight World Champion when he outpointed Derek Chisora over 12 rounds at The SSE Arena, Wembley last October. 

Avni Yildirim has brushed off his defeat at the hands of pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez and is ready to launch his quest at a new weight when he takes on Jack Cullen on the first week of Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex on Saturday July 31, live worldwide on DAZN.

Yildirim (21-3 12 KOs) took on Canelo in Miami in February, challenging the Mexican star for the WBC and WBA World Super-Middleweight Titles at the home of the Miami Dolphins, but the Turk was unable to dethrone the champion and was pulled out after the third round by then-trainer Joel Diaz.

The 29-year-old previously challenged Anthony Dirrell for the vacant WBC strap in February 2019, losing via a controversial split decision in Minneapolis, and now Yildirim has chosen to drop down to 164lbs in a catchweight clash with Cullen and to also team up with a new coach in Pedro Diaz.

“The Canelo fight is old news,” said Yildirim. “I am looking to open a new page on my career down at Middleweight. I have a new trainer in Pedro Diaz, it’s a new start and I have a new lease of life, everything feels good.”

Diaz is one of the world’s finest trainers, having worked with the vaunted Cuban teams in four Olympics and guiding the Dominican Republic in another, before switching to the pro game and working in the corners of modern greats like Miguel Cotto and Guillermo Rigondeaux, and Yildirim will be looking to absorb his years of experience in this new chapter.

Yildirim’s first assignment under Diaz sees him take on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ over ten rounds at the second instalment of Matchroom’s Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex. Cullen fights for the second time in the unique setting having drawn with Zak Chelli last summer and added a fine win over John Docherty to his CV in November. 

A clash with Yildirim came out of leftfield for both men and has been well received by pundits, but Yildirim is not focusing on his British foe, but looking to make a statement in the Middleweight division and warn the belt-holders that he is gunning for their hardware.

“I’m in a new gym, new atmosphere,” said Yildirim. “Pedro is one of the best trainers in the world and a great guy, and I think that he can make me a World Champion at 160lbs, and I’m telling the champions – I am coming for you.

“I know what I want to be, a great champion at Middleweight, and Pedro believes in me and says that I can do it. My motivation is so high, and my body and my mind are both in a great place.”

Yildirim vs. Cullen is part of a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Adrian Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs), WBA Featherweight World Champion Xu Can (18-2, 3 KOs) defends his Title against Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a massive showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea when he takes on Rico Mueller (28-3-1, 19 KOs), Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs) and former amateur star Sandy Ryan makes her highly-anticipated professional debut at Super-Lightweight against Kirstie Bavington (3-1-2, 2 KOs).

LONDON, UK – Today, BELLATOR MMA announced it will be returning to The SSE Arena, Wembley in London on Friday, October 1, with BELLATOR London, a card headlined by a must-see rematch between No. 1 ranked Douglas “The Phenom” Lima (32-9) and No. 2 ranked Michael “Venom” Page (19-1).

Fans in attendance at The SSE Arena, Wembley and those tuning in from around the world can expect an explosive night of elite MMA action in the capital, with two of the world’s best welterweights going toe-to-toe in a high-stakes match-up. Lima and Page will be putting everything on the line in pursuit of a win, with the fighter who emerges victorious booking themselves a fast-track ticket to a title shot against newly crowned welterweight champion, Yaroslav Amosov.

For the first time since February 2020, BELLATOR MMA fans in Europe will be able to fill the arena for the event that features a showcase of top international and homegrown athletes.

Tickets for BELLATOR London: Lima vs. MVP 2 go on sale on Friday, July 30, with a special pre-sale Thursday, July 29 and can be purchased online from axs.com/uk and BELLATOR.com.

The BELLATOR London main card action will kick off at 9 p.m. BST/4 p.m. ET, while the preliminary card begins at 5:30 p.m. BST/12:30 p.m. ET. BELLATOR fans can watch the event live on SHOWTIME (US), BBC iPlayer (UK), as well as both Virgin Media Two and Virgin Media Sport (Ireland).

Lima and Page first met inside the BELLATOR Cage in May 2019 at BELLATOR 221 in the semifinals of BELLATOR’s Welterweight World Grand Prix. After an even first round, Lima sent Page to the canvas with a sweeping leg kick, which he then followed up with a spectacular punch and ground and pound strikes to finish the fight.

Lima will be looking to cause an upset for the hometown faithful and stop Page for a second time, denying the Londoner his chance for gold, and earning himself an immediate shot at recapturing the welterweight title which he lost to Yaroslav Amosov via unanimous decision in June of this year.

“MVP has put together an impressive string of wins together, but when he gets back in the cage with me, the end result is going to be the same as the first time,” said Lima. “Right now, I’m on a mission to put the BELLATOR belt back around my waist.  Anyone standing in my way will be dismantled.”

Widely regarded as the poster boy of MMA in the UK, Londoner Michael “Venom” Page, or ‘MVP’ as he is known to his fans, will step into the BELLATOR cage fresh off the back of his spectacular first round TKO victory over Derek “The Barbaric” Anderson this past May. Currently riding a five-fight win streak full of highlight real knockouts, the only defeat on Page’s MMA record to date came at the hands of Lima, a loss that he is hungry to avenge.

“The comeback is always bigger than the setback. It was always gonna happen, it’s written in the stars,” said Page. “The one and only MVP is back, and I will have my redemption in front of my hometown the only way I know how – in venomous style.”

The current fight card is available below with additional bouts to be announced in the coming weeks.

BELLATOR London: Lima vs. MVP 2 MainCard:

SHOWTIME (US) / BBC iPlayer (UK) / Virgin Media Two & Virgin Media Sport (IRELAND)

Friday, October 1 – 9 p.m. BST/4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT

Welterweight Main Event: #1-Douglas Lima (32-9) vs. #2-Michael Page (19-1)

Featherweight Bout: Robert Whiteford (16-4))vs. Andrew Fisher (18-8-1

Lightweight Bout: Yves Landu (16-8) vs. Tim Wilde (13-4)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Luke Trainer (4-0) vs. Yannick Bahati (9-5)

Preliminary Card: 

BELLATOR MMA YouTube channel | SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel | Pluto TV (US)

BBC iPlayer (UK) | Virgin Media Two & Virgin Media Sport (IRELAND)

5:30 p.m. BST/12:30 p.m. ET/9:30 a.m. PT

Welterweight Bout: Lewis Long (18-6) vs. Uros Jurisic (11-1)

Lightweight Bout: Kane Mousah (13-3) vs. Davy Gallon (18-7-2)

Flyweight Bout: Lucie Bertaud (3-2) vs. Elina Kallionidou (7-4)

Lightweight Bout: Charlie Leary (17-11-1) vs. Gavin Hughes (10-2)

Featherweight Bout: Fabacary Diatta (7-0)vs. Nathan Rose (7-3)

Bantamweight Bout: Khurshed Kakhorov (7-0) vs. Mike Ekundayo (8-1)

*Card subject to change

Please visit Bellator.com for additional information.

****

About BELLATOR

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

About SHOWTIME

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

El Cajon, CA (July 26, 2021) International Boxing Hall of Famer Lou DiBella is proud to announce the return of the acclaimed Broadway Boxing series to the West Coast, set for Friday, August 20, held at the beautiful Sycuan Casino Resort, in El Cajon, CA. Two women’s world title unifications highlight the card. The event will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading streaming service for combat sports, starting at 8:00pm PT / 11:00pm ET.

“This is another highly significant card dominated by some of the best talent in women’s boxing. On August 20, from Sycuan Casino Resort, two super lightweight world title unifications will be streamed live on UFC Fight Pass®, with champions Kali Reis and Mary McGee in separate bouts. There are already discussions of the winners of these bouts entering into a tournament to crown an undisputed champion,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Alma Ibarra and Kandi Wyatt vie in the ‘Thrilla For CasKilla’, a welterweight world title eliminator to become Jessica McCaskill’s mandatory challenger. Mexican heavyweight prospect Elvis Garcia will also compete in an exciting men’s bout on the broadcast.”

Tickets, which start at $69.00, are on sale now through Sycuan Casino Resort HERE. The Sycuan Casino Resort is located at 5469 Casino Way, El Cajon, CA 92019, thirty minutes from Downtown San Diego. Doors will open on the night of the event at 7:00pm PT, with the first bell at 8:00pm PT.

Headlining the broadcast, Kali Reis (17-7-1, 5 KOs), of Philadelphia, PA, makes the first defense of her WBA super lightweight world title against Los Angeles-based Australian veteran and former world champion Diana Prazak (14-3, 9 KOs) in a scheduled 10-round bout. The division’s vacant IBO title will also be on the line. Reis’ ring nickname, “KO Mequinonoag”, which means “many feathers, many talents”, represents her Native American heritage, of which she is part Cherokee, Nipmuc, and Seaconke Wampanoag. In 2016, Reis became the first female Native American to win a world boxing title when she captured the WBC middleweight championship.

Reis has recently garnered a wealth of positive headlines from the entertainment industry for her starring role in the cinematic release, “Catch the Fair One”, which tells the story of kidnapped Indigenous women. The film opened at the acclaimed Tribeca Film Festival in June, receiving the Festival’s 2021 Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature, and Reis, in her acting debut, won the Special Jury Award for her performance. Click Here For Movie Trailer

Inside the ring, Reis, a two-division world champion, won the vacant WBA super lightweight world title with a dominant 10-round unanimous decision against Kandi Wyatt, on November 6, 2020, in St. Petersburg, FL. Prazak is a former 130-pound WBC world champion, who made her triumphant ring return, following a six-year layoff, with a shutout unanimous decision versus Milagros Gabriela Diaz, on March 13, 2021.

In the co-feature, IBF super lightweight world champion “Merciless” Mary McGee (27-3, 15 KOs), of Gary, IN, makes the second defense of her world title against former world champion and mandatory challenger Victoria Bustos (21-6), of Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina. The fight will also be contested for the vacant WBO super lightweight world title as well. In the first defense of her IBF crown, McGee knocked out Deanha Hobbs in the ninth round, on February 8, 2020, in Hammond, IN. Determined to reclaim world championship glory once again, Bustos last fought Maria Soledad Capriolo, on June 12, 2021, earning a decision victory.

Fighting in an eight-round special attraction WBA welterweight world title eliminator, dubbed the “Thrilla for CasKilla”, Alma “The Conqueror” Ibarra (8-1, 4 KOs), of Monterrey, Mexico, faces Kandi “Krush” Wyatt (10-2, 3 KOs), of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The winner will become the mandatory challenger for undisputed world champion Jessica McCaskill. Ibarra returns to the ring following a tremendous upset victory against Maricela Cornejo, on March 18, 2021, in a feature bout broadcast on NBC Sports Network, presented by Ring City USA. In Wyatt’s last bout, she lost a thrilling world title challenge on points to Reis late last year.

Top Mexican heavyweight prospect Elvis Garcia (11-0, 8 KOs), of Tacoma, WA, by way of Puerta de Mangos, Nayarit, Mexico, will compete in an eight-round special attraction bout against fellow Mexican Rafael Rios (11-3, 8 KOs), born in Tijuana, now fighting out of San Diego, CA. The charismatic Garcia, known for his heavy hands, hits the ring following an eighth-round stoppage of Daniel Cota Peinado, on June 26, 2021. Referred to as Anthony Joshua’s “secret weapon”, Garcia served as Joshua’s main sparring partner in preparation for his world heavyweight championship rematch against Andy Ruiz in December 2019.

More information on this event will be announced shortly.

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Facebook: @DiBellaEntertainment

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July 28, 2021, Fort Smith, Arkansas—American Heavyweight Contender JD “The Natural” Chapman (30-0, 26 KO’s) continues his surprise comeback on July 31, 2021 when he takes on veteran gatekeeper Terrell Jamal Woods (24-49-9) at home, in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Woods recently had a draw with Russian heavyweight contender Alexander Ustinov (36-4) and is renown for testing top fighters, having taken to the distance former world champion Dominick Quinn, and top prospects such as Michael Hunter (21-1) any Nicholas Musterek (9-0).

JD “The Natural” Chapman (30-0), returned to Boxing on June 5, 2021, after a thirteen year layoff. At the time of his retirement, Chapman was ranked by just about every rating organizing and was considered one of America’s best chance at reclaiming the Heavyweight title. With his return, Chapman immediately became one of the most talked about heavyweight contenders.

Asked whether it is not too soon to fight such a dangerous opponent as Terrell Jamal Woods so early in his comeback, Chapman said with his usual humility, “Jamal Woods is tough and will be a good test for me as I’m rusty and nowhere close to where I used to be. However, if I can’t go through guys like Jamal, I might as well hang up my gloves and retire for good this time.”

Says his promoter Edward Mendy, “JD Chapman is the ‘Next Great American Hope.’ No offense to Deontay Wilder and Andy Ruiz, but no American heavyweight today has a better shot at the world title than Chapman Period. JD has the size, the power, the skills and the experience to take on any of the top five heavyweights today. I’m so pleased with his progress, I would gladly to put him up against any other top ten heavyweight today. But first, he has to pass the Wood test.”

Chapman’s next fight, July 31, 2021 fight Terrell Jamal Woods, will take place at the River Valley Combat Academy in Fort Smith, Arkansas.

About JD Chapman
Born John David Chapman in March of 1983, JD Chapman did not fight as an amateur. Instead, he started fighting in Toughman Contest competitions before he turned pro in 2002. Chapman chose the name “The Natural” as he hails from Arkansas, “The Natural State”.

After fighting mostly guys with losing records his first fourteen fights, JD Chapman stepped it up and never fought another opponent with a losing record. In the process he has accumulated 30 wins with 26 of the wins by way of knockout (knockout ratio greater than 90%). Also, Chapman has beaten several known contenders and gatekeepers. His most notable opponents were Chicago-based Edward Gutierrez who was 15-0-1 coming into the bout, New York veteran John Carlo who then possessed a 14-1 record, and fellow undefeated Mid-West prospect Matt Hicks then 7-0.

Chapman further captured several regional heavyweight titles including the IBF Southern Regional title, the North American Boxing Council title, the WBC Latino title and the Arkansas State title. Just when it seemed that Chapman was at the cusp of stardom, he hung it all up and rode into the sunset.
At the time of his retirement in 2008, Chapman was considered a major heavyweight contender and was the darling of the boxing press. He received tremendous coverage and exposure in the boxing press and was featured repeatedly on television. More importantly, Chapman was rated Top Ten by every major sanctioning body except the WBC, which gave him a World Rating of 14.

He is being trained by former MMA Champion Brian Foster. Chapman’s return is being guided by Edward Mendy of Lion Heart Boxing Productions.

MAIN EVENT – VACANT NBA CONTINENTAL

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (8)

RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (12-0, 9 KOs), Albany, NY

vs.

Bergman “The Snake” Aguillar (15-8-1, 5 KOs), San Jose, Costa Rica by way of Nicaragua

CO-FEATURE – WELTERWEIGHTS (6)

James “The Slim Reaper” Perella (7-0, 5 KOs), Mansfield, MA

vs.

Rakim Johnson (6-12-1, 5 KOs), Indianapolis, IN

SPECIAL MIDDLEWEIGHT ATTRACTION (6)

Francis “Frank The Tank” Hogan (6-0, 6 KOs), Weymouth, MA

vs.

Isiah Hart (6-1-1, 4 KOs), Mays Landy, NJ by way of Peru

FEATHERWEIGHTS (4)

Troy Anderson, Jr. (1-0, 1 KO), Dorchester, MA

vs.

Lucinei Santos (Pro Debut), Framingham, MA

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

Eric “Gladiator” Goff (2-0, 2 KOs), Weymouth, MA

vs.

Austin Reed Ward (0-6), Garden City, KS

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Jonathan de Pina (4-1, 3 KOs), Boston, MA

vs.

Mike Fowler (7-37), Milwaukee, WI

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)

James Murrin ((Pro Debut), Boston, MA

vs.

Maycow Oller (Pro Debut), Concord, NH by way of Brazil

JUNIOR LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)

Alex Rivera (Pro Debut), Worcester, MA

vs.

Richard “Hit To Hard” Bernard (1-3-1), Waianae, HI

CRUISWERWEIGHTS (4)

Bernard Joseph (1-0, 1 KO), Dorchester, MA

vs.

Francisco Neto (1-13-1, 1 KO), Woburn, MA by way of Brazil

(card subject to change)

WHERE: Moseley’s On The Charles, Dedham, MA

WHEN: Saturday, July 31, 2021

PROMOTER: Vertex Promotions

MATCHMAKER: Brian Dillon

RING ANNOUNCER: John Vena

AMATEUR CARD: Two championship final matches of the New England Silver Gloves Tournament will highlight an amateur card preceding the evening’s pro card, during the July 31st afternoon segment, between 2-5 p.m. ET ($20.00 admission fee at door).

TICKETS: Limited tickets for the evening’s pro card will be available at the door for $95.00 (row 1), $85.00 (2nd row), $65.00 (3rd row), $55.00 (general admission) and $45.00 (standing room).

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

OFFICIAL WEIGH IN: Friday, July 30th (1:30 p.m. ET start) at Dan O’Brien Motorsports, 141 Providence Highway, Norwood, MA

Leigh Wood believes that Xu Can’s promoter Golden Boy have made a mistake by choosing him as their WBA Featherweight World Champion’s latest defence on the first week of Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex on Saturday July 31, live worldwide on DAZN.

Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), who is trained by Ben Davison alongside Undisputed Super-Lightweight World Champion Josh Taylor, landed the vacant British Featherweight Title last time out at The SSE Arena, Wembley in February by stopping previously unbeaten Doncaster fighter Reece Mould with a brutal knockout in the ninth round.

Can (18-2, 3 KOs), who is recognised by The Ring Magazine as the No.3 Featherweight in the world, won China’s first ever WBA World Title when he defeated Puerto Rico’s defending Champion Jesus Rojas with a unanimous decision at the Toyota Center, Houston, in January 2019. 

‘Monster’ hasn’t boxed since he defended his World Title against Manny Robles III at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, California, way back in January 2019. Nottingham’s Wood believes that he possesses the power to ask Can serious questions as he aims to emulate Carl Froch by becoming the city’s second World Champion. 

“When opportunity knocks you’ve got to be ready,” said Wood. “I’m always in the gym all year round keeping fit, staying on it and living the life. This opportunity has come up and I’ve grabbed it with both hands. 

“I’m coming to win. I’m not just coming to fight for a World Title. I don’t want to be remembered as the kid that boxed for a World Title. I want to win the World Title. People can congratulate me on this fight after I win.

“I’ve proved that I’m way above domestic level and that my power is too much for these kids. It is a big jump from domestic level to World Title level but I’m confident in my ability and I’m confident in my power. 

“Xu Can’s best attribute is his punch volume. He throws a lot of punches. He doesn’t take a good shot. When he gets clipped his head is all over the shop. He’s not boxed anyone that can dig like I can – in my opinion. I’m going to be giving him questions that he’s not answered before. I’m bringing a lot more than what he’s seen before. 

“At the same time, he’s going to be doing the same to me. He’s going to be throwing a lot of shots at my head. I’m going to have to be smart and super fit. I’m excited about it and I’m going to rise to the challenge. I’m extremely confident. 

“Ben (Davison) doesn’t get it wrong. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him get it wrong. You have to take away a fighter’s best attributes. Can’s best attribute is his volume. I think he’s got the record for the most punches thrown in 12 rounds. We have to take that away from him. 

“I’m going to go out there and stick to the game plan, and I believe I’ll get the job done. I’m surprised that him and his team Golden Boy have specifically asked for me. Be careful what you wish for. They’ve made a mistake picking me.”

Can vs. Wood features on a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Adrian Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs), Tommy McCarthy (18-2, 9 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (12-1, 10 KOs) collide in a massive showdown for the European, British and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles, former World Title challenger Avni Yildirim (21-3, 12 KOs) aims to bounce back from his loss to pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez when he takes on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea, Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs) and former amateur star Sandy Ryan makes her highly-anticipated professional debut at Super-Lightweight against Kirstie Bavington (3-1-2, 2 KOs).