PHILADELPHIA (APRIL 8, 2021)–This past Saturday night, popular heavyweight Joey Dawejko knocked out Joe Jones in the opening round of their scheduled eight-round heavyweight bout at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The bout headlined a card promoted by RDR Promotions.

Dawejko was dominant in dropping Jones twice, with the final punch coming from a big left hook, and the fight was halted at 2:50.

Dawejko of Philadelphia improved his record to 21-8-4 with 12 knockouts. Jones falls to 11-4.

In the co-feature, surging lightweight Nahir Albright notched his third consecutive stoppage victory by stopping Dante Cox in round three of their scheduled six-round bout.

Albright dropped Cox twice in round two, and finished him off at 2:13 of the third frame.

Albright of Sicklerville, NJ is now 11-1 with five knockouts. Cox of Glen Burnie, MD is 6-2.

Former National Golden Gloves champion Mike Hilton shrugged off a knockdown to win a six-round unanimous decision over Twon Smith in a cruiserweight fight.

Smith put Hilton down for a flash knockdown in round three from a left. That was sandwiched around Hilton outboxing Smith, and Hilton took all three cards by 58-55 scores.

Hilton of Trenton, NJ is 11-0. Smith falls to 3-5.

Afunwa King scored a mild upset by taking a six-round majority decision over previously undefeated Benny Sinakin in a light heavyweight bout.

King took two cards by 58-56 tallies, while a third card read even at 57-57.

King is now 3-1. Sinakin of Philadelphia is 6-1.

Matthew Gonzalez of Brooklyn, New York remained undefeated by taking out Luis Eduardo Florez in round five of a scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 2:13 for Gonzalez, who is now 12-0 with eight knockouts. Florez is now 25-19.

Rasheen Brown stopped late-replacement Christopher Nelson in round three of their four-round featherweight fight.

Brown dominated with body shots, and the fight was stopped at 1:50 of round three. A West Philadelphia native, Brown is 7-0 with four knockouts. Nelson is 3-18.

Tahmir Smalls remained undefeated by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Andres Abarca in a welterweight bout.

Scores were 40-34 twice and 39-35 for Smalls, who is now 3-0. Abarca,is 2-4.

Jahdon Ervin made a successful pro debut by taking a four-round unanimous decision over Kareem Gladney in a middleweight fight.

Ervin of St. Clair, PA is 1-0. Gladney is 0-4.

A limited number of seats were available due to Covid restrictions, and were filled to that limited capacity. The fights were streamed worldwide on BXNGTV.com

RDR PROMOTIONS WILL BE BACK AT 2300 ARENA ON SATURDAY, MAY 8TH.

NEW YORK – April 8, 2021 – Undefeated rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis and former world champion Sergey Lipinets previewed their 12-round welterweight showdown during fighter media availability Thursday before they square off in the main event live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, April 10 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

Also discussing their respective clashes were unbeaten Eimantas Stanionis and hard-hitting Thomas Dulorme, who meet in a 12-round WBA Welterweight Title Eliminator in the co-feature, and IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas and Mexico’s Jonathan Rodriguez, who will kick off the tripleheader with a title fight at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on SHOWTIME.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Ennis vs. Lipinets is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

JARON ENNIS

“After I do my thing on Saturday night and I do it with a big statement, it’s only up from there. On to bigger and better things. The elite fighters and the top three guys and then maybe a world title by the end of the year. This fight is just going to elevate my ranking, my superstardom and it will be the start of me being a pay-per-view star.

“I’m not worried about what Lipinets is talking about. At the end of the day, he still has to get in the ring with me on Saturday night. And we’re going to see. They don’t know what I’m going to bring. I’m an all-around fighter. You don’t know how I’m going to fight. I can fight several different ways. He just needs to know he’s gotta be ready.

“Training camp went great. It was the same old but just taking everything to the next level. I added a new workout into my training camp which was the underwater treadmill. It’s good for your legs and your lungs. It’s crazy. I do it three times a week and it makes me feel phenomenal.

“Everybody knows my style. I’m in and out like a robbery. The main goal is to be smart, go in there and win in dominating fashion. If the knockout comes, it comes. But the goal is to look good, put on a beautiful performance and get the knockout at the end of the night.

“Being from Philadelphia, a city with so many great champions, at the end of the day you just have to put on for Philly and continue the legacy that those guys started. My goal is to continue their legacy and have more world champions from Philadelphia. I feel like we’re going to have more world champions from Philadelphia around this time next year.

“These are the types of fights I’ve been waiting for. This is the guy that’s going to take me to the next level because he has a good name and he was a former world champion at 140 pounds. After this, without looking past Sergey Lipinets, I feel like I’m ready for a top five or top three guy and then a world title at the end of the year. If any of the top guys need a dance partner, they can just call.

“I’ve been trying to get these types of guys in the ring for about two-and-a-half years. I’ve been trying to get former world champions and top ten guys. It just didn’t happen. I finally got my chance and you guys are going to see a whole different animal. A whole different beast. It’s time for me to do my thing. I’m real excited.

“His style is tailor-made for me. Him coming forward is picture-perfect for me. He’s going to be running into shots all night long. It’s going to be a long night for him.”

SERGEY LIPINETS

“Everything was perfect in training camp. It was not an easy camp at all. It was probably the hardest I’ve ever had. I made it through and I feel 100% ready to go.

“I think the opposition that I’ve faced is definitely better than what Ennis has faced. I went 12 rounds with Mikey Garcia and I faced a two-time champion in Lamont Peterson. Those guys have pushed me to the edge before. Ennis has more pro fights than I do, he just hasn’t been pushed in the same way in his fights.

“We’re not basing our training on him weakening over the second half of the fight. We prepared for someone ready to go 12 hard rounds. We’re going to stay consistent, come forward and throw punches. We’re going to push ourselves and try to push Jaron as well.

“The main thing I learned from my last fight is to not depend on the judges. I know that we’re both coming to knock each other out. That’s what makes for an attractive fight. We’re hunting for opportunities to hurt him.

“I don’t worry about any outside noise or what people say about this fight. It doesn’t matter to me if I’m the underdog. I’m coming in there to do my job and put on the best performance possible.

“Ennis is young and up-and-coming fighter. All we want is a shot at the title and everything that comes with it. A win in this fight will give us all of that. I want to get my crack at the big dogs in the division.

“From what I’ve seen, Ennis can fight inside or box on the outside. He’s the whole package. Whatever he brings into the ring, I’ll be ready for it. We have multiple game plans and multiple ways that we can get this victory.

“If you follow my career, you know that I never turn down a fight. Ennis is still just another fighter. A lot of people have his skills. I love fighting boxers who are a challenge, and he presents a big challenge. That’s what excites me.

“We’re both looking to control the action, but we’ll see what happens when the bell rings. I’m focused on what I have to do to put myself in position to execute my punches. I’m looking to capitalize on any mistakes or openings he gives me.

“Custio Clayton is a very good fighter, I don’t see a lot of people lined up to face him. After a couple rounds of action though, he was trying to fight an evasive fight. It was a very competitive fight and I still feel like I won.”

EIMANTAS STANIONIS

“We are entertainers, so I definitely want the knockout. That’s part of my job. I have to do my best to give the fans something to remember. I always put 100% of my heart into a fight and that makes me happy no matter what the result is.

“Both Ennis and I have step up fights on Saturday like everyone is saying. We both have our toughest challenges yet and I think we’re both on the same track now as the next champions in the division.

“Everything was good in training. I’ve been training nonstop. I haven’t taken a break since my last fight, so I’m always in shape. You never know when the call is going to come for your next fight.

“There is some pressure to be the first world champion from Lithuania. Everybody is going wild for this fight because they’re going to show it over there. It’s amazing and it’s very exciting for me.

“I think on Saturday I’m going to answer a lot of questions about me. I believe that I can beat any of the welterweight champions. Everyone will see my level and what I’m capable of. I know I have to step up every fight and prove it again and again.

“For me, it doesn’t matter who I fight next. I’ll never say no to a fight. It can be two against one and I’ll be up for it. I’m just that kind of person. I want to give it my best no matter what.

“I’m very thankful to have this opportunity on a stage like this. It’s a new era coming up of young hungry fighters in the welterweight division. I think my will to win and get knockouts will separate me. I also think my style is fan-friendly and that will help me stand out.

“I would accept a fight against a champion next, but I know that experience is important. I want experience against good opposition like Dulorme. I know that will get me ready and show my team that I’ll be ready for the champions when that time comes.”

THOMAS DULORME

“Fights don’t always go the way we expect them to, so I’m prepared for anything that happens in the ring. I have enough experience that I’m prepared for any way that Stanionis plans to fight.

“I learned a lot against Jamal James. He was a tall and awkward fighter. I think it was a good experience for me. Stanionis is a very different fighter, so we’re focused on what we need to do against a fighter with his skills.

“This is a good fight for the fans and for me and my career. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m still a serious contender in the welterweight division.

“Training camp was great. I worked in the gym for the last 10 weeks every day. Right now I’m feeling perfect and ready for Saturday night.

“I have to win this fight. I know that with a win I’m going to get the bigger opportunities that I’m looking for. My experience is going to be a big factor. I’m planning to test him and see how he holds up in the later rounds.

“Stanionis is a fighter who comes forward and throws punches. He stands in the middle, unlike Jamal James who was more evasive. That style is going to make it easier for me to put on the kind of fight that I want.”

JERWIN ANCAJAS

“This fight is very important to me. I want to defend my title again badly. Every fight is very important and that’s how I prepare. That’s why I still have my title and why I must keep it.

“It hasn’t been frustrating being out of the ring for 16 months because we are always training and always in the gym. We always believed that a big fight was going to come. I stayed focused and stayed ready. From March until October in the pandemic, I was able to train and stay focused. In October, I arrived to the U.S. and I’ve never stopped training. I feel very prepared to meet the challenge on Saturday night.

“Every fight I always want to perform my best and put on a good fight because I want people to know my name. Everybody always talks about Estrada, Chocolatito and Rungvisai so that’s why I’m excited to have this opportunity to showcase my skills and challenge those guys.

“I promise that on Saturday night I’m going to put on a great fight. I’m ready for what Jonathan Rodriguez will bring. It’s Mexico vs. Philippines, which is a great rivalry with great history. I’m prepared. I watched Jonathan and I know that he’s hungry and coming for the title. It will be a really good action fight.

“I want people to remember me for being a champion and giving my all every time I get in the ring. After this fight, I want to face some of the top guys in my division. I always come to the fight and give the fans my best and that’s how I want people to remember me.

“I’m very comfortable right now at 115 pounds. I’m looking to win on Saturday night and I want to fight whoever is left after the four-man tournament between Rungvisai, Chocolatito, Estrada and Cuadras. I’m always calling the name of any titleholder in my division, so I would fight Ioka too. I want a signature fight because I’m tired of people criticizing me for not fighting anybody. After this, that’s what I’m targeting and then once I get that fight I plan to move to 118 pounds sometime next year.

“If I had to choose one name, I would want to fight Chocolatito because I always watched him on TV and he’s my idol. Now, if I have the opportunity to fight Chocolatito I really want that fight.

“It doesn’t bother me that everybody is always talking about Chocolatito and Estrada and those guys. It’s a compliment. I know that one day it will come and I will get the opportunity to fight those guys. A lot of people will be watching on Saturday night so I want to make a great statement so that my name can still be in the mix with all of those guys.”

JONATHAN RODRIGUEZ

“I had a great training camp over the last two months. I’ve been looking forward to this fight for the last two years and I can’t wait to get into the ring Saturday night.

“Ancajas is a great champion, but he’s never faced someone like me. I’m going to put the pressure on him from the very beginning Saturday night and show him that he has a great Mexican fighter standing in his way.

“I’m very excited for this fight. My daughter was just born five days ago and that gives me extra motivation to put on a great show and make my name known in the United States.

“We have been preparing the whole time since my last fight and I really couldn’t feel any better heading into Saturday. I’ve been studying Ancajas for two years now, so I feel like I know everything about him.

“The Mexico vs. Philippines rivalry is a great one and I definitely remember watching the Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez fights. I’m excited to carry the Mexican flag after I win on Saturday.

“This is a stacked division with a lot of great fighters. Ancajas is a world champion, but I don’t compare him to the other champions in the division. I’m just focused on what I have to do Saturday.”

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ABOUT ENNIS VS. LIPINETS
Ennis vs. Lipinets will see rising welterweight star Jaron “Boots” Ennis face former world champion Sergey Lipinets in a 12-round showdown headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, April 10 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING co-feature, a pair of hard-hitting welterweights square off as Eimantas Stanionis takes on former world title challenger Thomas Dulorme in a 12-round WBA Welterweight Title Eliminator. The telecast opener features IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas defending his title against Jonathan Rodríguez in a 12-round bout.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Ennis vs. Lipinets is promoted in association with D&D Boxing.

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.

Rugby player turned Heavyweight boxing debutant Nick Campbell says he has been inspired by darts World Champion Gerwyn Price and former British Super-Lightweight Champion Curtis Woodhouse as he prepares to take on Petr Frohlich over six rounds this Saturday, live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories.

The Jersey-based Scot, who has won regional and national Heavyweight Titles in his homeland since switching sports in 2017, played eight years of professional rugby with Glasgow Warriors and Jersey Reds but now has his sights set on becoming his country’s first ever British Champion. 

‘The Glasgow Warrior’, 31, will look to follow in the footsteps of former professional Welsh rugby hooker Price, who started competing on the PDC tour in 2014, and former Sheffield United and Birmingham City midfielder Woodhouse, who made his professional debut in 2006, as he aims to make a name for himself in a new sport. 

“Gerwyn Price was on loan at Glasgow for six months from the Newport Gwent Dragons when I was there, and he’s now the darts World Champion!” said Campbell. “He’s an example of a guy that completely transitioned sports. I know it’s not boxing but it just goes to show you that it can be done. 

“Curtis Woodhouse is another one, football to boxing. He became a British Champion. Nobody can ever take that away from him. They’re probably the biggest two and the first that come to my mind. Sonny Bill as well over in New Zealand is having another dabble at the boxing. 

“There is so much that applies between sports – discipline, getting up early in the morning, doing your recovery, doing rehab, doing the things that aren’t fun, the things that people don’t see. There are so many things I can take from rugby and apply it to boxing.

“I’m 6’7” and 18 stone – if I didn’t use those physical attributes, I’d be crazy. I want to get behind my jab, take the centre of the ring, I am very well-conditioned and take pride in how fit I am. No disrespect to some of the Heavyweights but some of them can’t condition themselves. I like to think, if I get the opportunity, I can put people out of there. I want knockouts, to get people excited.

“There has never been a British Heavyweight Champion from Scotland. If you are turning professional that’s what you have to aspire to. People laughed at Curtis Woodhouse but he became a British Champion. Why should it be different for me?

“To challenge for a British Title would be an amazing achievement. The last Scotsman to do it was Gary Cornish who was beaten by Sam Sexton. I understand the level of these fighters – Daniel Dubois and Joe Joyce competed for it last. I’m under no illusions. I’m prepared to sacrifice, dig down, work a lot to get there.”

Campbell vs. Frohlich is part of a big night of action, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (17-0, 11 KOs) defends his WBA Continental Title against Samuel Vargas (31-6-2, 14 KOs) in the main event, Watford’s Shannon Courtenay (6-1, 3 KOs) faces Australia’s Ebanie Bridges  (5-0, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title, Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) defends her WBO Middleweight World Title against Sweden’s Maria Lindberg (19-6-2, 10 KOs), Glasgow Bantamweight Kash Farooq (14-1, 6 KOs) challenges Alexander Espinoza (20-2-2) for the WBC International Silver Title and Takeley prospect John ‘The Gentleman’ Hedges (1-0) looks to build on his pro debut win last October.

Eddie Hearn:

“We’re here back in London after a whirlwind global tour that continues. Two weeks ago we were in sunny Gibraltar for an incredible event with Dillian Whyte against Alexander Povetkin. Last weekend in Uzbekistan for a thrilling night with over 10,000 people in attendance for the homecoming heroes.

“Back in London now for a huge card live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN around the world. Conor Benn returns against the fantastic Samuel Vargas in what should be a thrilling fight. Two women’s World Title fights on the card as well, Savannah Marshall against Maria Lindberg and of course Shannon Courtenay against Ebanie Bridges for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title.

“Next week we have the WBO Middleweight World Championship in Miami between Demetrius Andrade and Liam Williams. Then we’re in Barcelona, two Brits going for the European Championships and then the huge card on May 1^st of course – Chisora vs. Parker and Katie Taylor vs. Tasha Jonas, Chris Eubank Jr against Marcus Morrison, Dmitry Bivol against Craig Richards, Scott Fitzgerald and Campbell Hatton on the card.

“Then there’s the small matter of 70,000 people at the fantastic Dallas Cowboys Stadium for Canelo against Billy Joe Saunders. Then we’re back in the UK for a May 15^th show that will be announced next week. Just a little few things coming up for you.”

Conor Benn – Essex, England – 17-0, 11 KOs – defending his WBA Continental Welterweight Title against Samuel Vargas:

“This is definitely one for the fans. I’m chomping at the bit; this is a fight I’ve been calling for a long time now and this is another fight where I can show my levels and experience.

“You can judge me on my last performance, or the performance before that, but I’m always evolving and learning from previous fights and the mistakes I’ve made. This is the sort of fight where I really do show what I’m capable of.

“We don’t know the ceiling to my career, we don’t know where the limit is because I came into the game raw and naive. I’m learning and I plan on displaying all of that come Saturday night.

“If you watch Vargas’ fights he comes in and he brings it but so do I. Of course, he’s tested at a higher level and got more experience than me, but everyone I fight moving forward is going to have experience on me, I’ll always go into the fight the less experienced fighter because of my lack of amateur background, because I’m only 24.

“People will question that, it’s my job to prove them wrong, it’s my job to get in there and do a number on him Saturday night. It’s going to be my hardest nights work, I know what he brings, he’s a tough South American who loves to fight and fights with his heart on his sleeve. You’ve got to give him credit where it’s deserved.

“I keep getting asked now about other fights, I made the mistake once in my career looking past opponents and look what happened – I hit the deck twice and it turned out to be my hardest nights work in my career. I’m fully focused on Vargas; I know what he brings and he’s in there to win and show me how it’s done.

“I’ve been training hard for this fight; I’ve been working hard and visualising this fight and I’m ready to go. Whatever he brings, I’ll match it – it’s going to be a shootout at some stage of this fight.

“Every time we’ve said it’s a test I’ve passed with flying colours. With Koivula people were writing me off again, saying he’s too experienced, and then what happened. I stepped up again against Sebastian Formella and what happened. I rise to the occasion and I will rise to the occasion, I will make sure I match it.

“Tony’s trained me harder than ever for this camp. He’s really pushed me; I don’t often say I need a break, but I needed a few this camp. When you’re talking about sacrifices try four years, not being with family – that’s really hard.

“My little son now, we only had a few days off when he was born to spend time with him, so your mind and emotions are still on the fight. Even when I’m holding him, I’m thinking about the fight. Twitching in my sleep about the fight. It’s going to be nice after this to sit down and emotionally relax with my new family.” 

Samuel Vargas – Bogota, Colombia – 31-6-2, 14 KOs – challenging Conor Benn for his WBA Continental Welterweight Title:

“I’m blessed, I’m happy and had a good training camp. I feel like everything has fallen into place for me to have a great show Saturday night. I’ve put my heart and soul into this training camp, working with Bones Adams. I’ve lots of rounds in the gym and I’m really excited to be here. The moment is here, it’s time.

“I don’t really compare, I was 24 once, I was young once upon a time and when I look at myself then and now, I just laugh. I just think I bring too much into the ring for him.

“It’s kind of sad we don’t have fans in the venue, I was looking forward to having a lot of fans there because it would’ve beee a great energy, you need that. The fans in London have a lot of love and support which I’m thankful for.

“This is a fan friendly fight, he fights, I fight my ass off. I fight for my family, for everything I have, for the desire to win and become better at life and boxing, there’s so many motives I have to fight for.

“I never make no excuses, even in my loses, I always work my ass off in training camp. This fight in particular, I haven’t seen my family or Lee in two months. Everybody keeps telling me how focused and driven I am because it’s all I’ve done, there’s nothing else to do but box, study, know my enemy and do my job.” 

Savannah Marshall – Hartlepool, England – 9-0, 7 KOs – defending her WBO Middleweight World Title against Maria Lindberg:

“If anything, this is a tougher fight than the original fight we had. Maria is very experienced, tough and been in with some of the best in the world – Christian Hammer twice. I’m expecting a tough fight come Saturday.

“I’ve had a twelve-week camp, so I’ve prepared for everything. Whatever Maria brings I’m more than confident I’ve got the answer for.

“I think it’s every boxers dream of being the Undisputed Champion and I do believe that is the biggest fight in female boxing, but I can’t look past Maria at the moment.” 

Maria Lindberg – Malmo, Sweden – 19-6-2, 10 KOs – challenging Savannah Marshall for her WBO Middleweight World Title:

“Unfortunately, this was so sudden, and I didn’t have much time but I’m more or less always in training. I’m prepared, this is a new experience for me as I’ve never taken a fight like this with such short notice. There’s a first time for everything, I’m excited and looking forward to Saturday.

“I’m more experienced as a professional, I think I have three times more fights than Savannah and many Title fights. I’ve fought some really good fights, so the experience is definitely on my side. I have my style and I know how I’m fighting, that’s the way I’m going to make it hard for her on Saturday.”

Shannon Courtenay – Watford, England – 6-1, 3 KOs – fighting Ebanie Bridges for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title:

“This is more than just a fight, this is an opportunity for me to change my entire life, my family’s life. This is the reason I got into boxing and I’m excited to achieve my dream Saturday night.

“We have very different opinions when it comes to fighting. She talks more about the weigh-in, all I care about is the fight – I’m a fight fan. This to me is a World Title, why are we not talking about the fact this is a world title fight. This is a fantastic fight.

“She’s an exciting fighter, she’s aggressive and comes forward, I’m aggressive and I come forward. Our styles are going to mix, so let’s talk about the fight, there’s nothing else to discuss.

“I’m just excited to fight. I can understand why she’s saying she wants to get more eyes on the sport, but I want to get more viewers for the correct reasons. Katie Taylor didn’t work her backside off to pave the way for women like Ebanie and I to talk about underwear.

“I’ve got a 14-year-old sister, my coaches have daughters, my god-daughter, I want to be a good role model and show them hard work and motivation gets you here. Not flaunting your body.

“I’ve got a cool, calm and collected head. We’ve had a game plan since day one of this fight, I’ve got the best team behind me keeping me nice and calm. My game plan is my game plan, we’ve stuck to it in sparring, and it’s worked beautifully – it’ll work even better on Saturday.

“This fight isn’t my Everest; this is just the start for me. Win the World Title, join the likes of Savannah Marshall, Katie Taylor, Terri Harper and another British woman to hold a World Title. I want to bring another World Title to Britain; we saw it with Lawrence Okolie a few weeks ago and I want to be the next one.” 

Ebanie Bridges – New South Wales, Australia – 6-0, 2 KOs – fighting Shannon Courtenay for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title:

“This same way I’ve got noticed is the same way I’m getting this fight noticed. I feel like women’s boxing needs more eyes on the sport, we need to do whatever we can. I truly believe that the reason this fight has got so much talk about it is because of me, because of the different approach. I think that’s what’s helping getting eyes on the sport, getting talk on the sport and building it.

“What does matter is what happens in the ring, that’s all that matters. If we can get as many people as possible to watch the fight, then Shannon and I can show to more diverse number of viewers that women can fight. That’s my goal, get the views and once the people are watching Shannon and I are going to put on a show.

“I’ve been fighting and into martial arts since I was five, I haven’t been a boxing fan for just five or six years, I was boxing fan well before I started in the sport. For me, the boxing part is very important to me, but I feel like we need to get more views on women’s boxing and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get that.

“I think me winning this World Title will show people you don’t have to be like everybody else to achieve these goals. That’s what I’m going for.

“I’m savage, I want to go in there and f**k this shit up. I’m not here to play around, I’m here to get the job done. I don’t play around in boxing, when I fight, I’m there to hurt you. I might look the way I look, but I can’t wait to get in the ring and show people how I fight. The more people I can get to tune in to watch the Bomber, I couldn’t have asked for a better platform, I’m going to do whatever I can.

“We both have the power to knock people out, so a knockout or stoppage is very possible. It’ll come down to our conditioning and heart to see if it goes the ten rounds. If it does go the ten rounds, it’ll be a very exciting ten rounds.

“I truly believe if I win this fight on Saturday night, I’ll become a superstar. If Shannon wins it she’s still Shannon, she still has to beat Rachel Ball. She’s a World Champion but I just think it’s different. I’m very excited to be that person and to be a new face and character in women’s boxing.” 

Alexander Espinoza – Managua, Nicaragua – 20-2-2, 8 KOs– defending his WBC International Silver Bantamweight Title against Kash Farooq:

“We know there are some great champions from Nicaragua, and you’ll see another one Saturday night.

“I believe very much in myself and I’m looking forward to retaining my International crown. I believe I can beat anyone at world level and go on to win a World Title myself.” 

Kash Farooq – Glasgow, Scotland – 14-1, 6 KOs – challenging Alexander Espinoza for his WBC International Silver Bantamweight Title:

“I’m been preparing for this fight; I know what to expect on the night and I’m really confident I’ll put in a good performance and get the win. He’s going to bring it.

“I was pleased but there’s always room for improvement. I went back, took a couple of days off and went right back to the gym. I trained right through Christmas, New Year and my birthday. It was a good performance, but I want to improve every fight, I want to get better, and this is another fight where I’m going to showcase my skills and look good.

“I think he [Alexander] will be there all night, but that’s going to make me look even better. It’s going to give me opportunities I didn’t get last fight. Expect a good performance off me but never say never he may surprise me.”  

John Hedges – Takeley, England – 1-0 – fighting Stanko Jermelic in a four-round International Light-Heavyweight contest:

“It was a hard debut but looking back on it now and I couldn’t have asked for a better one. It’s prepared me for what’s to come in the future. Taking a southpaw one a couple days’ notice was probably something I shouldn’t have done, but I’m glad I did, we got the win, and we push on now for my second fight and I’m looking to shine.

“I’ve trained hard, I’ve had some class sparring and sparred some great names – British Champions all at Light-Heavyweight. I’ve trained hard, been around some good boys and putting everything in, Mark’s been away but I had a few weeks with him.

“Me, Steven Andrews, Mark Tibbs, Jimmy Tibbs and Ian have all been down there doing the job, putting the work in and making sure I can have a good performance this time.

“It’s a proper Essex gym, we’re having it down there – it’s lively. I can’t knock it, it’s a proper gym and I’m enjoying it down there. I’m enjoying being in good company and training hard.

“I’m trying to take the pressure off myself, I don’t want to swallow on it. I’m ready to go, I’ve put the work in, and this is the fun part. I want to prove to people what I know I can be and what I’ve done before – I’m ready to go now.

Stanko Jermelic – Split, Croatia – 0-5 – fighting John Hedges in a four-round International Light-Heavyweight contest:

“I’ve had good training camp; I feel like I’m ready to face John. I’ve watched John’s previous fight and I’m ready to fight on Saturday.” 

Nick Campbell – Glasgow, Scotland – Professional Debut – fighting Petr Frohlich in a six-round International Heavyweight contest:

“I suppose you do need to be mad to get into boxing, but I love it. I’ve loved the sport since a young age, so it just felt like the right thing for me to do at the time – give up rugby and go to boxing.

“Here we are, no better stage to make your debut and I’m buzzing for it I can’t wait.

“Scotland is famous for their lighter weights; we’ve got Josh Taylor and Kash Farooq who is fighting with me on this card at the weekend but there’s never really been a good Heavyweight. There’s a void there, one that I want to fill.

“My rugby background is going to help me with this, with the pressure. I’m taking it in my stride, using the pressure to perform, put on a show Saturday night and show that I’m here to make a statement.

“I got into this four years ago, I went through the amateur set up and been down Sheffield sparring guys in the GB squad. I’ve been over the world the Scotland, always testing myself and see how I went.

“As far as I’m concerned, the only way is up and anybody who doubts me is just more fuel to my fire.

Petr Frohlich – Most, Czech Republic – 2-30-1, 1 KO – fighting Nick Campbell in a six-round International Heavyweight contest:

“I’m so pleased and grateful for this opportunity to fight here in London, particularly given the current climate. I’m going to give my best and show what a quality boxer I am.” 

TULSA, OK (April 8, 2021) — Joe Smith Jr., the small business owner and former union construction worker from Long Island, just wants to fight. Smith, who operates Team Smith Tree Service with his father, hopes to chop down Maxim Vlasov and win the vacant WBO light heavyweight world title Saturday evening at Osage Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma (ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN, 10 p.m. ET).

Smith and Vlasov were scheduled for a pre-fight press conference once before, Feb. 11 in Las Vegas. Vlasov tested positive for COVID-19 that day, and their scheduled Feb. 13 fight was temporarily derailed. Vlasov recovered, went home to Russia, and then finished training camp in Las Vegas.

Smith got married, but he delayed his honeymoon to focus on the task at hand. Instead of the bright lights of Las Vegas, they will do battle in the Sooner State in front of a sold-out crowd.

Before fight night, this is what both fighters had to say.

Joe Smith Jr. 

“I was 100 percent ready to go back in February, but it’s OK. I had time to enjoy my wedding day and now I’m just ready to go once again.”

“I know what I’m going up against. He is a busy and aggressive guy with a lot of experience, but I have prepared well and I’m going to give 100 percent of myself to come out victorious.”

“Becoming world champion and hearing the words, ‘and new!’ it’s going to be an amazing feeling. This is everything I have been working for since I was 15 years old.”

Maxim Vlasov

“I’m sure that you will see no ring rust at all this time. I’ve been preparing well. I’ve been sharpening my skills, and I’m ready to give it my all, 100 percent.”

“I feel the same as a younger boxer who is less experienced because this is a great chance for me. This is a great responsibility, a great risk. I am very excited and motivated for this fight.”

“I have taken preparation seriously, watched many of his fights, and learned some things. I don’t like to talk about his weakest or strongest points or divulge any strategies or plans related to the fight.”

SATURDAY, April 10, 2021

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Joe Smith Jr. vs. Maxim Vlasov, 12 rounds, Vacant WBO Light Heavyweight World Title

Efe Ajagba vs. Brian Howard, 10 rounds, heavyweight

ESPN+, 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT

Jared Anderson vs. Jeremiah Karpency, 8 rounds, heavyweight

Albert Bell vs. Manuel Rey Rojas, 8 rounds, junior lightweight

Trey Lippe Morrison vs. Jason Bergman, 8 rounds, heavyweight

Duke Ragan vs. Charles Clark, 6 rounds, featherweight

Jeremiah Milton vs. Jayvone Dafney, 4 rounds, heavyweight

EL PASO, TEXAS (April 8, 2021) – Middleweight contender D’Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard (20-0-1, 13 KOs) will step in to face Jaime Munguia (36-0, 29 KOs) for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Championship after Maciej Sulecki was forced to pull out of the fight due to an injury. The event will now take place on Friday, April 23 at The University of Texas at El Paso’s Don Haskins Center and will be streamed live exclusively
on DAZN worldwide, excluding Mexico, beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT/7:00 p.m. MDT/9:00 p.m. ET.

The event will be held under strict COVID-19 fan safety protocols and with a reduced event capacity below 40%. For detailed COVID-19 event safety fan protocols, click here or visit http://www.utepspecialevents.com.

Updated ticket information is available at the bottom of this release.

“D’Mitrius Ballard has been deserving of an opportunity like this for a while now,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “This is the chance to finally demonstrate to the world that he’s ready for the top guys in the division. We wish Maciej Sulecki a quick recovery, but we also we want to emphasize that Ballard is no mere replacement. He’s a real threat.”

Ballard is a 28-year-old contender who boasts a decorated amateur career in which he won several national championships. In 2013, the native of Temple Hills, Maryland began his professional career with a knockout victory against Kelly Henderson. Since then, Ballard has steadily moved up the rankings, taking on tough competitors such as Victor “Sina” Fonseca and Alan “Amenaza” Campa. Ballard, who is anxious to make his mark on the division on April 23, is coming off a majority draw against Olympic bronze medalist Yamaguchi Falcao.

“I feel very fortunate and blessed to have the opportunity to fight against Jaime Munguia,” said D’Mitrius Ballard. “I feel extremely blessed especially because of the condition the world is now in with COVID-19 and all the issues we are facing. This is the perfect opportunity to really showcase who D’Mitirus Ballard is and demonstrate my boxing abilities. I’m going to use this fight to re-introduce myself to the world.”

“These things happen in boxing, and I’ve always had the mentality that I have to be prepared for any opponent,” said Jaime Munguia. “I know that D’Mitrius Ballard is a great fighter with a lot of experience as an amateur and a professional, so I expect to deliver a great fight to get even closer to the world title opportunity.”

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Munguia vs. Ballard is a 12-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Title presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “The Official Beer of Boxing” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The fight will take place on Friday, April 23 at the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN worldwide, excluding Mexico, beginning at 6:00 p.m. PT/7:00 p.m. MDT/9:00 p.m. ET.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Ballard are on sale now and are priced at $200, $100, $60 and $35 not including applicable service charges. In an effort to promote social distancing, tickets will be sold in pods/groupings of 2, 3, 4 and 6 people only. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 915-747-5234. Tickets will also be available for purchase at http://www.utepspecialevents.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Fans who have already purchased tickets for Saturday, April 24 and would like to still attend Munguia vs. Ballard, your tickets and seating location are still valid for the new date and no further action is required. Ticket buyers who purchased tickets for April 24 through Ticketmaster or the UTEP Box Office and would like a refund, you can go back to your original point of purchase and request a full refund. Refund requests will be honored up until Wednesday, April 14.

Fans who purchased tickets on StubHub, or any other secondary ticket provider, should contact the provider’s customer service staff regarding the impacted date change. The UTEP box office, nor Ticketmaster, are not able to facilitate any credits, exchanges or refunds for tickets not purchased directly through them.

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

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/MunguiaBallard into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

Los Angeles – April 8, 2021 – Ring City USA today announced two compelling undercard matchups that will round out the main card for its Thursday, April 22 event from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y. and live on NBC Sports Network (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT).

The co-main event of the evening is a women’s featherweight world title bout between WBA World Champion Jelena Mrdjenovich (41-10-2, 19 KOs) of Edmonton, Canada, and world ranked contender Erika Cruz Hernandez (12-1-0, 3 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico, scheduled for ten rounds. Also featured on the NBC Sports Network main card is a highly anticipated clash between top undefeated junior welterweight prospects Juan Pablo ‘El Pivi’ Romero (13-0, 9 KOs) of Villa del Carbon, Mexico and Jonathan ‘Thunder’ Navarro (17-0, 9 KOs) of East Los Angeles, Calif., scheduled for ten rounds.

Mrdjenovich, 38, returns to the Ring City USA squared circle following her fifth world title defense, a 10-round unanimous decision victory against Iranda Paolo Torres on December 17, 2020 at the Wild Card Boxing Gym in Los Angeles, Calif. The three-division world champion won the WBA world title in March 2016 defeating champion Edith Matthysse. A pioneer for women’s boxing in Canada, Mrdjenovich is currently the second-ranked featherweight in the world by Ring Magazine, behind only recent Ring City victor Amanda Serrano.

Upset-minded Cruz Hernandez, 30, will be challenging for her first world title. The southpaw is currently riding an 11-bout winning streak including victories over world ranked contenders Vissia Trovato and Jocelyn Morales Torres. 

Making his United States debut, heavy-handed Juan Pablo Romero arrives for battle following a ten-round unanimous decision over Sergio Torres on November 28, 2020 in Mexico City, Mexico. Prior to his most recent outing, Romero, 31, has faced top competition for a rising prospect and performed well by knocking out four consecutive opponents within the first four rounds.

The 24-year-old Jonathan Navarro has become one of the most highly touted prospects in the United States since turning professional five years ago. The nephew of former perennial contenders Jose and Carlos Navarro, Jonathan is trained by the renowned Robert Garcia. Coming off a 17-month layoff, he hits the ring following a tremendous second round knockout of Lebin Morales on October 24, 2019 in Indio, CA. Among the victories on his ledger include a seventh-round knockout over then-unbeaten contender Damon Allen in August 2018.

The April 22 event from West Point, N.Y. is headlined by the previously announced heavyweight clash between undefeated contenders Jermaine Franklin (20-0, 13 KOs) and Stephan Shaw (14-0, 10 KOs). Bonus undercard action will stream live around the world on Twitch. Armed Forces Network Europe and Pacific will also make the broadcast available to U.S. Forces serving overseas on AFN TV. 

More details on the Ring City USA event on April 22 from West Point will be announced at a later date. Follow Ring City USA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest updates or visit www.ringcityusa.com.

About Ring City USA

Ring City, which launched in 2020, is boxing’s newest sports media platform. Working in tandem with a variety of promoters and talent, its new boxing series places an emphasis on competitive matchups that genuinely test the fighters and excite the fight fans. Ring City provides great fights in the ring and compelling shoulder programming outside of the ring. Ring City is the proving ground where up-and-coming talent can earn their stripes and launch themselves into the upper echelon of boxing stardom. 

About West Point

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point is a four-year, co-educational, federal, liberal arts college located 50 miles north of New York City. It was founded in 1802 as America’s first college of engineering and continues today as the world’s premier leader-development institution, consistently ranked among top colleges in the country. Its mission remains constant—to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the nation as an officer in the U. S. Army. For more information, go to www.westpoint.edu.

PHILADELPHIA (APRIL 8, 2021)–Former Boxcino Heavyweight champion, and, current contender, Andrey Fedosov returns to action when he takes on Mahammadrasul Majidov on Saturday, April 17th at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

Fedosov of Shuya, Russia, will be making his first ring appearance of 2021, and has a record of 31-3 with 25 knockouts.

The former Boxcino champion, who began his career in his native country, has been very successful when taking his career stateside, as he has a record of 12-2 with 11 knockouts, which includes scoring three knockout victories to win the Boxcino Heavyweight title

Fedosov, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and Newsboy Boxing, is a former WBO Intercontinental and WBA Fedlatin Heavyweight champion.

Mojidov is 3-0 with three and knockouts, and is a three-time world amateur champion.

“I am excited to be back in the ring. The Pandemic held me back, but I am ready to go on April 17th. I know my opponent was a decorated amateur, but I am a very experienced professional. That will be the difference on fight night,” said Fedosov

“With a win, Andrey puts himself back in the mix in the heavyweight division. He has the ability to defeat anybody, and we look forward to him putting on a major performance on April 17th, said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.

“I am excited to be part of the team with Banner Promotions. We are looking forward on Andrey having a great performance and working towards being a top contender in the heavyweight division,” said Gary McCarthy of Newsboy Boxing Promotions.

Said Steve Burman of Newsboy Boxing Promotions, “This is going to be a great fight for Andrey. I can not wait for Andrey to get in there and display that he is one of the top heavyweights in the world. With a win, the sky is the limit for his success.”

The fight will be streamed live on DAZN.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please like the Banner Promotions Facebook Page, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

Las Vegas – UFC® will deliver a middleweight main event almost three years in the making, as former champion and No. 1 contender Robert Whittaker takes on No. 8 Kelvin Gastelum. In an exciting co-main event, No. 9 ranked featherweight contender Jeremy Stephens returns to lightweight for the first time in eight years to face Drakkar Klose.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: WHITTAKER vs. GASTELUM will take place Saturday, April 17 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire card will air on ESPN and ESPN Deportes and be simulcast on ESPN+ (English and Spanish), with the prelims kicking off at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT followed by the main card at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.

No. 13 men’s pound-for-pound fighter Whittaker (23-5, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) looks to build off the recent momentum of two impressive victories over Jared Cannonier and Darren Till. Throughout his run in the 185-pound division, he has delivered memorable wins over Yoel Romero (twice), Jacare Souza and Derek Brunson. Whittaker now has his sights set on another show-stealing performance to stake his claim for an opportunity to regain his crown.

The Ultimate Fighter season 17 winner Gastelum (17-6 1NC, fighting out of Yuma, Ariz. by way of Huntington Beach, Calif.) steps in to replace Paulo Costa to finally get his shot at Whittaker after their UFC 234 encounter was cancelled. A talented striker and grappler, he holds notable wins over Michael Bisping, Johny Hendricks and Tim Kennedy. Gastelum now hopes to take out another former UFC champion and re-enter the middleweight division’s top five.

Perennial fan favorite Stephens (28-18 1NC, fighting out of San Diego, Calif.) has delivered a series of spectacular knockouts during his 14-year stint on the UFC roster. Included on his resume are KO wins against Josh Emmett, Dennis Bermudez and former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos. Stephens now aims to turn heads once again at 155 pounds with another vintage performance.

Klose (11-2-1, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.) is gunning to make the most of his first UFC co-main event appearance by securing the biggest win of his career. A gritty competitor and striker, he has delivered entertaining victories over Bobby Green, Lando Vannata and Marc Diakiese. Klose now hopes to secure his first UFC finish by taking out another seasoned veteran.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski (30-20 2NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) squares off with Chase Sherman (15-6, fighting out of D’Iberville, Miss.)
Abdul Razak Alhassan (10-3, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) moves up to middleweight to face Jacob Malkoun (4-1, fighting out of Sydney, Australia)
Luis Pena (8-3, fighting out of Gilroy, Calif.) returns to action against Dana White’s Contender Series veteran Alex Munoz (6-1, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) in a lightweight bout
Ricardo Ramos (14-3, fighting out of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil) squares off with Bill Algeo (14-5, fighting out of King of Prussia, Penn.) at featherweight
Women’s flyweight prospects collide when Tracy Cortez (8-1, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.) faces Justine Kish (7-3, fighting out of Cramerton, N.C.)
Alexandr Romanov (13-0, fighting out of Comrat City, Republic of Moldova) takes on Juan Espino (11-1, fighting out of Gran Canaria, Spain) in a battle of surging heavyweights
Former women’s strawweight title challenger Jessica Penne (12-6, fighting out of Huntington Beach, Calif.) returns to the Octagon for the first time in four years when she meets debuting Lupita Godinez (5-0, fighting out of Vancouver, Canada by way of Aguascalientes, Mexico)
Bartosz Fabinski (15-4, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) takes on Gerald Meerschaert (31-14, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) at middleweight
Zarah Fairn (6-4, fighting out of Paris, France) goes for her first UFC victory against UFC newcomer Josiane Nunes (7-1, fighting out of Fazenda Rio Grande, Parana, Brazil) in a women’s bantamweight contest
Tony Gravely (20-6, fighting out of Christiansburg, Va.) locks horns with Anthony Birchak (16-7, fighting out of Tucson, Ariz.) at bantamweight

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

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About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 625 million fans and 142 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to approximately 900M TV households across more than 175 territories. 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 was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

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 12.1 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 nine 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.

QUINCY, Mass. (April 8, 2021) – Granite Chin Promotions is bringing old-time, local rivalry pro boxing back Saturday night, April 17, with the presentation of the “Crossroads” day-night doubleheader, featuring seven regional and local title fights, at New England Sports Center in Derry, New Hampshire.

Former New England middleweight champion Kendrick “Peppa” Ball (15-1-2, 11 KOs) steps up in terms of competition against Texas veteran Bryan “The Warrior” Vera (28-16, 18 KOs) in the 8-round main event for the vacant WBC USNBC (U.S.) Silver super middleweight title

Fighting out of nearby Worcester, Massachusetts, Ball is 11 years younger than Vera, who needs to win or retire, and riding a 6-fight win streak with a 3-inch height and reach advantages.

Fighting out of Austin, the 39-year-old Vera was originally known for his participation in the first season of The Contender, Reality Television series. He went on to defeat a trio of world champions – Andy Lee, Sergio Mora (twice) and Serhiy Dzinziruk – capturing five regional titles including the NABO middleweight crown.

Ball vs. Vera, the evening headliner of the day-night doubleheader (separate admissions), is co-promoted by Ball’s promoter, Classic Entertainment and Sports (CES).

“Events like this is what local boxing is all about,” Granite Chin’s Chris Traietti said. “’Crossroads’ is more than just the name for this event. It’s a reality for a lot of guys on this show. It is time to find out if some of these young up-and-comers are really as good as the hype, as well as learning if some of the veteran fighters have hit the end of the road. Our two shows offer a ton of boxing for fans to watch. On top of all the boxing, we will have live music from The Freight during the afternoon show.

“For the last 6-7 years, I have been learning, absorbing and, at times, failing to figure out how to make Granite Chin work. We hit our stride about 1 ½ years ago and not even a pandemic has been able to slow us down. This is only the beginning of a bright Granite Chin future. Thank you to everyone who has been supporting Granite Chin to allow us to grow to this point.”

In the co-featured event, New Hampshire welterweight champion Ryan Dibartolomeo (3-1-1, 1 KO) faces title challenger Marquis Bates (7-4, 5 KOs) in a 6-round bout.

Larry Pryor (13-23, 7 KOs) takes on Scott Lampert (1-1, 1 KO) for the vacant New Hampshire cruiserweight crown in a 6-rounder. Undefeated prospect Francis “The Tank” Hogan (4-0, 4 KOs), of Weymouth, MA, meets veteran Larry “Slo Mo” Smith (12-45-2, 8 KOs) in a 6-rounder for the vacant New Hampshire junior middleweight championship, and undefeated Schenectady, NY junior middleweight Jahyae Brown (8-0, 7 KOs) fights Dormedes Potes (12-2-1, 9 KOs) in an 8-round brawl for the vacant ABF Atlantic junior middleweight strap.

Former New England heavyweight champion Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe (4-2-1, 3 KOs) squares off against Alfredo “Choncho” Trevino (9-8-1, 1 KO) in 6-round bout.

Also fighting on the evening’s undercard is unbeaten Holyoke, MA welterweight Denzel Whitley (3-0, 3 KOs) vs. Aquilando Brandao (0-3), and Fall River, MA welterweight Dustin Reinhold (5-4, 2 KOs) vs. pro-debuting Anthony Andreozzi.

Julien Baptiste (1-0, 1 KO), of Woburn, MA, and pro-debuting Holyoke junior middleweight Carlos Castillo are in separate 4-round bouts against opponents to be determined.

UBO All-America welterweight champion Brandon “The Cannon” Berry (20-5-2, 12 KOs) headlines the afternoon segment of “Crossroads” in an 8-round title defense versus challenger Gael Ibarra (5-2, 4 KOs).

Heavyweights Mike “Fly” Marshall (4-1, 3 KOs) and Tracey Johnson (4-9-6) throwdown in in the 8-round co-feature.

Canadian cruiserweight Yan “Wild Thing” Pellerin (10-1, 4 KOs) meets Steve “The Spoiler” Walker (26-36, 18 KOs) for the vacant ABF Atlantic cruiserweight title in an 8-round encounter.

In a pair of scheduled 8-round bouts, Danbury, CT junior welterweight Omar Bordoy, Jr. (10-1, 3 KOs) stays busy against Dewayne Wisdom (7-55-2, 3 KOs), while New England welterweight champion Mike “Bad Boy” Ohan, Jr. (11-1, 5 KOs) stays busy against Rynell Griffin (8-45-2, 2 KOs) in a non-title fight.

Also fighting on the afternoon undercard in 4-rounders are Jimmy Torney (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. pro-debuting Justin Velmure in battle of Boston heavyweights, Weymouth, MA pro-debuting welterweight Eric Goff vs. Jader Alves (0-4), and the pro debut of Demek Edmonds vs. Francisco Neto (1-11).

All bouts subject to change.

Tickets are priced at $35.00 (Day Show) / $45.00 (Night Show) for general seating (unassigned) and $220.00 (Day Show) / $300.00 (Night Show) for ringside tables (assigned and seats 4) and available to purchase online at www.ticketriver.com (Search: crossroads).

Doors open at 12:15 p.m. ET and 7:15 p.m. ET (night) with the first bouts, respectively, at 12:30 p.m. ET and 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:
Facebook.com/GraniteChin
Twitter: @Granite_Chin

TROY WILLIAMSON insists he will see off Kieran Smith in their British Super-Welterweight title final eliminator on Friday April 30, live on BT Sport.

The Darlington man will be looking at the big time if he wins and guaranteed a shot at British champion Ted Cheeseman.

Williamson (15-0-1, 11 KOs) who has recovered from recent laser eye surgery said: “Me and Cheeseman would be a war.

“We have got a similar sort of style. We can box and come forward. I think at some stage it would catch fire and be explosive.

“I’m not sure if he wants to stick around and move on. If he does, we will meet and if not I will still get my shot once I come through Kieran.

“If I get the opportunity this year I will become British champion. I don’t run my mouth because I deserve the opportunity.”

Williamson admits that Smith (16-0, 7 KOs) will be his toughest opponent to date as a professional.

The Scottish southpaw is on a revenge mission having narrowly lost against Williamson when there were amateurs at the 2015 Tri-Nations tournament.

“We are the two underestimated guys in the division and nobody wants to fight us so we’re putting it on the line fighting each other,” said Williamson

“One million per-cent this is the biggest fight for me so far as a professional.

“I’m not looking at my Tri-Nations win. It’s now smaller gloves, longer rounds and we’ve both matured as fighters. It’s still 1-0 though and that will be in the back of his head.

“I’m more explosive, I hit harder, I believe I am going to be fitter on the night. I will be mentally and physically ready just like I always am.

“As a professional I have boxed higher calibre boxers. In his last fight he boxed somebody who was unbeaten but it was a padded record and they didn’t turn up to win.

“What makes me different is that I am hungry to succeed. I am a  complete athlete. I live and breath boxing. It will show on April 30.

“Fans can expect a great fight. It will catch fire at some point and be explosive. I will win.”

Another potential opponent for Troy is a mouth-watering meeting with young unbeaten hopeful Hamzah Sheeraz, a Frank Warren stablemate.

Hall of Fame promoter Warren has been desperate to make the fight, but it has fallen through twice inside the last few months.

Williamson promised Warren: “It will happen this year or early next year.”

‘Trojan’ who has been travelling around the country with trainer Craig Carney to get top class sparring added: ”I was due to fight Hamzah last November, but I injured my eye in sparring.

“I went back to training too early after the laser eye surgery. I took a thumb in the eye and it closed up so I couldn’t train.

“It got rescheduled for last month. Then he got injured so it’s not happening.

“I think we’re Frank Warren’s best two Super-Welterweights so that fight needs to happen.

“Hamzah is a good fighter. If we boxed now I think it is a bit too early for him and I’d show a bit of man strength.

“My full focus is Kieran and we will see where we go after whether it is Cheeseman or Hamzah next.”

In the main event on the behind closed doors London card brilliant South African Moruti Mthalane (39-2, 26 KOs) defends his IBF World Flyweight championship against Croydon’s Sunny Edwards (15-0, 4 KOs), a former GB amateur team-mate of Williamson.

In a ten rounder Belfast’s Michael Conlan (14-0, 8 KOs) faces dangerous Romanian Ionut Balata (14-2, 3 KOs)

Sunny’s older brother, Charlie Edwards (16-1, 6 KOs) the former WBC World Flyweight champion has his second fight as a Bantamweight on the undercard.

FOR TROY’S FULL INTERVIEW WITH DEV SAHNI ON THE LOWDOWN CLICK HERE

Hard-punching light heavyweight fan favorite Ahmed Elbiali says he can’t wait to show off the new skills he’s developed while working with trainer and former world super bantamweight champion Clarence “Bones” Adams.

Cairo-born Elbiali (20-1, 17 KOs) relocated from his adopted home in Miami three years ago to work with Adams at his private gym in Las Vegas and, at first, things didn’t go as well as hoped.

“Bones’ style took some getting used to,” admits Elbiali. “He’s very direct and it used to hurt my feelings sometimes, but now I know he’s a very realistic guy who just tells it like it is to help you improve. The whole environment in Vegas is different. People in Vegas are not as happy as people in Miami. Everyone who shows up to the gym in Vegas is grumpy. In Miami, the skies are always blue. You go outside in Vegas and its straight smog and heat. Now I get it.”

Once acclimated, Elbiali says the improvements in his technique were astonishing. “I think Bones is a great coach and he’s helped me to improve a lot as both a fighter and a person. We started over from the basics and everything is different now. Bones helped me realize a lot of things. I’m really excited to come back because I have so many new skills to show.”

30-year-old Elbiali, who was last seen demolishing former NABO champion Bryan Vera by sixth-round TKO in December 2019, says he’s living a clean life and working hard to reach his goal of becoming boxing’s first Egyptian-born world champion.

“Being a fighter in Vegas is the best. All these great fighters are helping me. I’ve been sparring with undefeated Russian cruiserweight, Andrey Mangushev, and learning a lot. The whole environment is great.”

With the pandemic sure to wind down eventually, boxing will go back to business as usual with live fans and fight cards all over the world every weekend. Elbiali, who is hoping to return to the ring in June, says he’s just biding his time until he can unleash his new-and-improved fists on the 175-lb division.

“I really love what I do. I can’t wait to get back in there. I am going balls to the walls from now on and leaving nothing to the judges. Like a lot of fighters, I just want to fight. Fighting is our profession, so when we don’t make money we struggle mentally. It doesn’t feel nice as a man to not be where you want to be in life. I can’t say its all about the money though. I want to prove myself and show how much I love what I do.”

Elbiali will be back in the ring soon with date and details to be announced shortly.

Tickets for Devin Haney’s WBC World Lightweight title defense against Jorge Linares at the Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas on Saturday May 29, will go on pre-sale tomorrow at 10am PT/ 1pm ET and on general sale on Friday April 9 at 10am PT/ 1pm ET. The event will air live worldwide on DAZN in association with Devin Haney Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.
TICKETS STARTING AT $50 (PLUS FEES) WILL GO ON SALE VIA AXS.COM
Haney (25-0 18 KOs) defends his title for the third time having seen off the challenges of Alfredo Santiago and Yuriorkis Gamboa with comfortable points wins, but now faces the toughest test of his pro career to date in the form of Linares in his first fight back in his Las Vegas backyard since May 2016.

Linares (47-5 29 KOs) is looking to become a two-time holder of the WBC strap that he won in December 2014 against Javier Prieto, with Haney the 15^th World title battle and 53^rd bout in over 18 years as a pro. The fight was a catalyst to a four-year run where the Venezuelan ace beat Kevin Mitchell, Ivan Cano, Anthony Crolla twice, Luke Campbell and Mercito Gesta as Lightweight king before he faced defeat in a to-and-fro clash with Vasiliy Lomachenko in New York in May 2018.

The undercard for Haney vs. Linares will be announced soon.

MGM Resorts will implement its comprehensive Seven Point Safety Plan and its Entertainment & Sports “Convene with Confidence” program, which outline the company’s approach to protecting the health and safety of guests and employees. The multi-layered plans include everything from sanitation stations, masking and physical distancing to digital solutions that minimize touch points as well as enhanced cleaning protocol. Details can be found at MGM Resorts Entertainment Convene with Confidence.

PENSACOLA, FLA. (April 7, 2021) – Hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella detailed his current training camp, including what he’s learned from his new trainer, all-time great Roy Jones Jr., and previewed his upcoming showdown against former world champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison before they square off in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

“After my last fight I went on a bit of a sparring tour,” said Perrella, detailing the origins of how he linked up with his new trainer. “I ended up sparring with some of Roy’s guys in Pensacola, and afterward he let me stay to soak up some more knowledge. The rest is history. It was an easy decision to stay out there and grow under one of the best fighters ever. It’s like going off to a university. Every day I come in with my notepad and pen ready.”

Perrella will return to the ring after suffering a disappointing defeat in his last fight in February 2020 on FOX. Perrella led on all three scorecards heading into the final round against Abel Ramos, but was stopped in the waning moments of the round. For Perrella, he’s learned from the experience, and combined with his new trainer, believes it will all end up helping him long term.

“Everything that happened with the Ramos fight has been addressed and changed,” said Perrella. “That lost sent me on the journey that led me to this new weight class and training with Roy. Everything happens for a reason, as long as you look for that reason and have faith in it. That reason has been shown to me in so many ways and it’s a huge blessing.”

After spending a majority his career fighting at 147 pounds, Perrella will fight at the super welterweight limit for the first time since his third pro fight. For the six-foot, one-inch Perrella, he believes that moving up in weight full-time will open up different aspects of his game.

“The decision to move up in weight was because of how I felt in the Ramos fight,” said Perrella. “Making 147 pounds was taking a lot out of me. I performed well, but I know how I felt in that ring. I have so much more to give as a fighter. That was really only 30% of me. Making weight was coming at a cost and I no longer thought it was helping me.

“I know these fighters at 154 are bigger and stronger, but so am I. I’m going to be stronger than ever and I’m going to be ready to tangle. I probably should have been at this weight for a while. I was always a fighter moving down in weight. I still train hard like always, but by not having to worry as much about weight, I’m able to add big layers to my game. With all these changes, I even surprise myself some days with what I can do now. I’m super confident and I can’t wait to bring it all to the ring on fight night.”

Perrella not only finds motivation from returning in a primetime main event, but from having elite opposition in the former 154-pound champion Harrison. Perrella knows that Harrison presents a versatile and difficult task, but is more than up to the challenge in front of him.

“This is a huge opportunity to fight one of the top guys at this weight,” said Perrella. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. It definitely helps motivate me to have this kind of chance on this stage against a fighter like Tony.

“Tony has different layers and dimensions to his game. He can box with his jab and length, but he can also come forward with that high guard. At this level, it’s a game of adjustments. This is going to be an interesting clash of styles. There’s no other southpaw like me. He’s sharp and has experience, but I’m a whole different kind of animal than anything he’s seen.”

With Roy Jones Jr. in his corner, Perrella believes that he has the confidence to not only come out victorious on April 17, but to make this a memorable action fight for fans watching.

“I have a unique approach and now I have Roy passing down his knowledge from his experiences,” said Perrella. “It’s like a shortcut. I’m getting the knowledge handed right to me instead of going through it not knowing what to expect. This matchup is between two strong fighters and the fans can expect an action packed fight from start to finish.”

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ABOUT HARRISON VS. PERRELLA
Harrison vs. Perrella will see former WBC Super Welterweight World Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison enter the ring to face hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella in the super welterweight main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, April 17 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features undefeated rising contender Omar “El Relampago” Juarez stepping up versus veteran Jessie Roman in the 10-round super lightweight co-main event. The telecast opener will see the return of sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. against James Martin in an eight-round welterweight matchup.

The event will be promoted by TGB Promotions and will take place without fans in attendance at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, an AEG venue, in downtown Los Angeles.

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 @WarriorsBoxingProm, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas (APRIL 7, 2021)–Memorial Day weekend promises to start out with a bang, as junior welterweight Michael Dutchover will look to thrill his Lone Star State fans when he takes on Ivan Leon Benitez in the headlining 10-round bout of what will be an explosive night of boxing on Friday, May 28th at Reed Arena on the campus of Texas A&M University and LIVE and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®., the world’s leading streaming service for combat sports. The card will begin at 7 PM ET / 6 PM CT /4 PM PT.

The show is presented by Reed Arena and Texas A&M University and promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

Dutchover, of Midland, Texas, has a record of 14-1 with 10 knockouts. The 23- year-old turned professional five years ago.

Dutchover, known as the “West Texas Warrior,” has wins over Miguel Cariozza (10-1); Ricardo Lopez (7-1-2); Bergman Aguilar (14-3-1); Rosekie Cristobal (15-3), and his last bout when he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Jorge Marron (18-1) on July 26th in Orange, California.

Dutchover is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

“In December I was supposed to fight, but I had an injury, and things happen for a reason. I am back in California training and am excited to get back in the ring. There is no place that I would rather fight than in Texas. I will have fans there from Midland and all over the state. This is my fifth year as a professional, and this is the year that I become a contender,” said Dutchover.

Benitez, of Cancun, Mexico, has a record of 14-4-1 with 6 knockouts.

Just 20 years old, Benitez is already a six-year professional. He has wins over two undefeated opponents and is coming off a draw with undefeated Francisco Javier Lopez Corrales (12-0) on December 8th in Mexico.

“I will have a difficult task ahead of me in fighting Dutchover, but May 28th will be my day. I will be prepared to give the fans a great show and to beat my opponent. This is what I work for everyday, and he will not derail my dreams of becoming a future champion,” said Benitez.

Seeing action in the 10-round co-feature will be heavyweight Isaac Munoz Gutierrez.

Gutierrez of Mexicali, Mexico is undefeated with a record of 12-0-1 with 10 knockouts.

The 29-year-old Gutierrez, who will be making his United States debut, was a former amateur star in Mexico and competed in the World Series of Boxing.

Gutierrez has stopped his last six opponents and is coming off a first-round stoppage of 35-fight veteran Jesus Alberto Torres Martinez on September 7, 2019 Naucalpan, Mexico.

Seeing action in an 8-round bout will be undefeated lightweight, Miguel Madueno.

Madueno, 22-years-old from Orange, California, has an impressive record of 22-0 with 20 knockouts.

Madueno is a four-year professional who has shot up the prospect rankings with wins over Cristian Flores (7-1-2); Jesus Rendon (13-1-1); former world-title challenger Cosme Rivera; and his last bout when Madueno stopped Jesus Quintero Velarde in two rounds on December 18th in Sonora, Mexico.

Opening up the broadcast will see Jamshidbek Najmitdinov take part in an 8-round junior welterweight fight.

Najmitdinov, of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, has a record of 16-1 with 13 knockouts.

Najmitdinov is an eight-year professional who will be making his American debut.

Najmitdinov has been in several all-action fights, with a style that will appeal to the American audience. The only blemish on his record was a very disputed decision loss to former world champion Viktor Postol. That bout saw Najmitdinov go into the home country of Postol in the Ukraine, and Jamshidbek dropped Postol on two occasions and rocked him several other times during the fight, yet fell short on the judges’ scorecards.

Najmitdinov is coming off a first-round stoppage over Giorgi Khutsishvili on October 6, 2019 to win the WBC CIS Title.

“UFC FIGHT PASS prides itself on being the destination for combat sports fans,” said Crowley Sullivan, Vice President and General Manager, UFC FIGHT PASS. “We’re thrilled to showcase the exciting talent from Banner Promotions to our subscribers. With boxers putting their undefeated records on the line, this action-packed event is one our subscribers won’t want to miss.”

“I am looking forward to working with UFC Fight Pass and Darren Davis with Reed Arena. We are very excited to be putting on this show to kick off a holiday weekend. This show promises to feature fan-friendly fights. When Michael Dutchover fights in Texas, it is always a great crowd, and we are excited about his continued ascent up the rankings. We also are looking forward to getting a glimpse of a future player in the heavyweight division in Isaac Munoz Gutierrez. The fans watching in the arena and around the world are in for a terrific night of boxing,” said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.

“We are very happy to see the return of Michel Dutchover, and what better place than at the Reed Arena at Texas A&M. Michael will make a run for a world title and this is the best way to get him going,” said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing.

“We are thrilled to be hosting this marquee fight with Banner Promotions. Adding to a growing list of exciting events we are bringing to Bryan-College Station, this fight will be one any boxing fan will not want to miss,” says Darren Davis, General Manager of Reed Arena.

“We couldn’t be happier to be working with Banner Promotions, to bring a championship event to a great Texas Arena. Reed Arena is going to be a great new venue for boxing, the Gig’Em spirit will be alive and well,” said Daren Libonati of the Libonati Group.

Tickets go on-sale on Thursday, April 8th at 10 AM CT

WHEN: Friday, May 28th, 2021
Doors open 5:45pm with First Bell at 6:00pm CT.

WHERE: Reed Arena
Texas A&M University
730 Olsen Blvd.
College Station, TX 77843

TICKETS: Tickets start at $25
Tickets available for purchase online at ReedArena.com or by phone at
888-99-AGGIE (24463) ** venue / ticketing fees may apply.

To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com, or download the UFC app.

About Reed Arena:
Prominently located on the Texas A&M University campus, Reed Arena serves as the home court for the Aggies’ men’s and women’s basketball teams and women’s volleyball team. This multi-purpose venue can also host a variety of other events including major touring concerts, family shows, rodeo, private events, motorsports and comedy. It is conveniently located within minutes of Bryan-College Station’s Easterwood Airport and the Northgate entertainment district, and within walking distance of the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library Center, the Memorial Student Center and the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center, as well as Texas A&M’s impressive athletics complex of Blue Bell Park (baseball), E.B. Cushing Stadium (track & field), Davis Diamond (softball), Ellis Field (soccer), Gilliam Indoor Stadium (track & field), Kyle Field (football) and the Mitchell Tennis Center (tennis). To purchase tickets, please call: 888-99Aggie (888-992-4443) or 979-845-2311. You may also visit www.ReedArena.com for more information.

About Texas A&M Athletics | Home of the 12th Man:
One of the most successful Athletics Departments in the nation, Texas A&M ranked No. 15 in the most recent Learfield IMG College Directors’ Cup standings and is one of eight Division I institutions nationally to finish in the top 20 of the prestigious ranking of athletics success for at least 13 consecutive years. For more information, go to www.12thMan.com.

About Texas A&M University:
Texas A&M University, the flagship university within the Texas A&M University System, is a tier-one research institution with nearly $1 billion in research grants and more than 69,000 students. The President of Texas A&M University has strategic oversight for campuses in Bryan-College Station and Galveston, Texas and Doha, Qatar. Located on the campus of Texas A&M University is The Health Science Center with the College of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy, as well as The Texas A&M School of Law and Mays Business School. For more information, go to www.tamu.edu.

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.

About Libonati Entertainment Group
Libonati Entertainment Group is a team of well-versed production, operations, ticketing, promotion, and general site management professionals. We design, create, and produce both public and private events. We have experience and expertise in events ranging from small private events to large-scale 80,000 person festivals. Our event DNA stems from the Arena, Stadium, and Outdoor Festival business. Creating the most economically impactful events over the last two decades at multiple venues in Nevada and across the country.

Bouts Subject to Change

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please like the Banner Promotions Facebook Page, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

CARSON, CALIF. (April 6, 2021) – Fighters competing on the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View undercard Saturday, May 1 previewed their respective showdowns during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they step in the ring for the event headlined by former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz Jr. battling all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

The virtual press conference featured former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. and Abel Ramos, who meet in the co-main event, sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora and hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota, who battle in a 12-round attraction, and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos and U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina, who square-off to kick off the pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park will be open to fans in a limited capacity, with all guests remaining socially distanced and subject to local and state health guidelines throughout the event.

The FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View is priced at $49.99.

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

OMAR FIGUEROA JR.

“I’m definitely looking to make this an interesting fight. We don’t get paid for overtime. If I can get it done in a round, trust that I’m going to try. It all depends on what Abel brings to the ring. We’ll see what kind of fight he brings and go from there.

“When you’re facing the top guys in the sport and you know you’re not 100% healthy, the weight of it all becomes unbearable at times. I needed to give my body time to heal, and right now I feel like all of that is behind me. I feel as close to 100% as I’ve ever felt and I’m excited to see how my body holds up.

“All I’m focused on is Abel Ramos. He’s no light task, so I can’t look ahead to any possible matchups in the future. The only thing I can control is my performance in this fight on May 1.

“These last couple of years have been tough for me. My life has been this sport ever since I was three or four-years-old. Thinking about a loss never crossed my mind until it actually happened. Having that ‘1’ in the loss column gave me a different perspective on everything and you’ll see it on May 1.

“I’ve given fans great fights throughout my career, including a few times at this venue. It takes two to tango, so we’ll see what Abel brings on fight night. I can’t wait to get this show on the road.

“I’m excited to continue this new chapter in my career and show everyone how I’ve grown. I appreciate everyone who has stood by me. I really believe this is going to be the best chapter yet.”

ABEL RAMOS

“I’ve been training hard and I’m going to be ready to step in against Omar on May 1. I have a great opportunity and there’s nothing on my mind but taking advantage of it.

“The experts are right to say that we can steal the show because of our styles. The styles are going to mix very well. The fans are definitely going to love this fight.

“Omar is a warrior and we can’t look past him. The winner of this fight will definitely be placed in a great position. There’s no chance I’m overlooking Omar, but I’m still very aware of where I can go with a win on May 1.

“There have been a lot of great wars in this venue. Something about that place just attracts these types of fights. Like always, I’m just focused on my job heading into this fight. To me, that job is giving fans an exciting fight.

“To everyone watching this fight, this is going to be a great battle between Mexican warriors. It’s a whole card full of warriors and we’re going to do our part to give everyone a great show from start to finish.”

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I’m excited to be on this card and be part of the Cinco de Mayo legacy of fighting for the Mexican fans.

“We just picked up training right where we left off after my last fight. I didn’t take any time off after the fight in December. Since we were originally supposed to fight Cota then, this is really my second training camp preparing for him.

“If I wanted to, I could squeeze down to 147 pounds. I walk around at my ring weight. This camp was probably even easier than my last camp in that sense, because it’s getting a little hotter so that there’s no problem with any weight coming off.

“We’re looking to get that shot at the champions in this division. No matter who is in front of us, we’re aiming to impress and show everyone we deserve to be on that level. We don’t really worry too much about what the competition in my immediate future is going to look like, we just keep working hard one fight at a time.

“I know that they say Cota has a lot of power, and his record shows it. We’re ready for war, a boxing match or anything he brings. I’m ready to win no matter what.

“I felt the competition level changed with fighting Nathaniel Gallimore. Winning that fight and my most recent one has really helped boost my confidence up so I feel like I can take on anyone in this division.

“This is going to be a war. We’re both going to be bringing it from the opening bell and I can’t wait for it to take place in front of live fans.”

JORGE COTA

“I know that I’m facing a tough undefeated fighter who’s very talented, but I’m bringing my best. I’m training very hard to be 100% on May 1.

“Nothing is too different compared to the preparation we had for the first time we were supposed to fight Fundora. We both wanted to fight each other after it got cancelled, so I’m glad we’re able to still make it happen.

“I’m in Tucson, Arizona right now getting in great work to be ready and at my best on May 1. I only had a bit of a cough for COVID-19 symptoms, so I didn’t feel any ill effects from it and I certainly don’t feel any right now.

“It’s hard to find sparring partners with Fundora’s characteristics, but I’m very confident with what we’ve been able to do in camp. We’ve found guys with similar physical attributes to give me the looks I need in sparring.

“This is a fight that the fans are going to be on their feet for. This fight could end at any one moment. We’re going to be trying to knock each other out from the start and we’ll just see what happens on May 1.

“I’m going to go into the ring fully prepared and with no intention other than getting this victory. I know what this win means for my career. I prepared myself physically and mentally for what this fight means for my career.

“There’s no secret that when the bell rings, we’re going to come after each other. I can’t wait for this fight and I’m definitely ready to steal the show on May 1.”

JESUS RAMOS

“I feel that I’ve been stepping up with each fight. Javier Molina is a big step up. If everything goes right, we’re going to keep stepping up little by little. I want to be champion by the time I’m 21-years-old. I know that if I keep doing everything right, I can accomplish that goal.

“I set my knockouts up and I work hard each round. If the knockout comes, it comes, but if not, I’m always ready to go 12 rounds. That’s how it’s going to be on May 1.

“Molina is the opponent who will bring the best out of me. I hope for that to happen in this fight. I want to go past round four. I want to show everyone my true talent. Some people classify me as a knockout artist, but I’ve seen what I do in sparring and I hope to showcase that in this fight.

“Sparring with Terence Crawford and Maurice Hooker was a great experience. It’s given me a boost of confidence going into any fight I have. I’ve seen how champions train and been in there with champions. It was really intense sparring and it was great to learn from guys of that caliber.

“We’ve always had high-level training camps, no matter who the opponent is. I always prepare as if it’s a world title fight. I don’t take anyone lightly and that’s definitely the case with Javier Molina. A lot of people consider him my toughest test to date, but I think those tough training camps have me ready for this step up.”

JAVIER MOLINA

“We’re working hard in the gym because we have a young tough opponent here. This won’t be an easy fight and that’s what I expect at this point in my career.

“My last fight against Jose Pedraza was a tough battle, it just wasn’t my night. When I got this fight, I knew that this was the type of fight I needed to get back to where I want to be.

“I was off from the beginning in my last fight. I was impatient in the fight, But I’m grateful that I’m back with an opportunity to get to where I want to be.

“I think with a win over Pedraza I would have had a 140-pound title shot, but I always knew that going back to 147 was inevitable. I feel great at this weight and we’re working hard to put on a show.

“I’ve been doing this my whole life. After my loss to Pedraza, I just stayed in the ring and kept working hard. I’m thankful for this opportunity to showcase my skills. I have nothing but respect for Ramos, but when we’re in the ring, it’s a totally different story.

“A win over Ramos just gets me a level closer to a world title. I’ve been a pro since I was 19, so I know that we’ve been working hard and training great. I plan on taking full advantage of this opportunity on May 1.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“We’re really excited about this pay-per-view undercard. We have three great all-action, toss-up fights. There’s been a lot of talk lately about great young welterweight prospects and I just have to say that everyone should keep their eye on Jesus Ramos. He’s stepping up to open the pay-per-view in his toughest opponent to date in a very good U.S. Olympian in Javier Molina.

“Sebastian Fundora is another top prospect stepping in for this pay-per-view, and he’ll also be facing a tough veteran who should provide a real test in Jorge Cota. Plus Omar Figueroa Jr. taking on Abel Ramos is a perfect style matchup that I believe is going to break out to be a ‘Mexican style’ Gatti vs. Ward fight. This is truly a stacked card from top to bottom.”

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ABOUT FOX SPORTS PBC PPV: RUIZ VS. ARREOLA
Ruiz vs. Arreola will see former unified heavyweight world champion Andy “The Destroyer” Ruiz, Jr. battle all-action heavyweight Chris “The Nightmare’’ Arreola in the main event of an all-Mexican boxing extravaganza on Saturday, May 1 headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former world champion Omar “Panterita” Figueroa, Jr. clashing with Abel Ramos in the 12-round welterweight co-main event. Sensational super welterweight contender Sebastián “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora takes on hard-hitting Jorge “El Demonio’’ Cota in a 12-round battle and rising welterweight star Jesús Ramos, Jr. duels U.S. Olympian Javier “El Intocable” Molina for 10-rounds of welterweight action in the pay-per-view opener.

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

Tulsa, OK (April 6, 2021) – This Saturday night (April 10), JOE “THE BEAST” SMITH JR. (26-3 21KO’S) will challenge for the vacant WBO World Light Heavyweight Title in the main event on ESPN against Russian veteran, MAXIM VLASOV (45-3 26KO’s). The fight was rescheduled from February 13, to April 10, due to Vlasov testing positive for COVID-19.

The WBO world title is up for grabs after it was vacated by pound for pound star, Canelo Alvarez in December of 2019 after he knocked out then champion, Sergey Kovalev. Now on April 10th, live on ESPN, Joe Smith Jr. will be seeking to win the World Championship and further solidify his increasing reputation as one of the top and most fan-beloved light-heavyweights in the world.

The “Common Man,” as he is affectionately known as, Joe Smith Jr. sat down with us and recapped his rise to the top of the light heavyweight division ahead next Saturday’s world title bid.

As an amateur, Smith Jr. won the coveted 2008 New York State Golden Gloves, defeating his rival Sean Monaghan. Smith Jr. decided to turn pro just one year later, hoping to use the momentum from his major Golden Gloves victory. Following his pro debut, Smith Jr. made appearances in the metro area, including, Resorts World Casino in Queens, NY, Roseland Ballroom, The Paramount in Huntington, and Barclays Center. While gaining exposure and being built up locally, Smith Jr. remained a relative unknown in the boxing scene outside of the metro area.

That all changed on June 18, 2016 when Star Boxing CEO and NY Hall of Fame promoter, JOE DEGUARDIA brought the opportunity of a lifetime for “The Beast,” against ANDRZEJ FONFARA in Chicago for the WBC International Light Heavyweight Title. Smith Jr. would shock the boxing world when he destroyed the heavy Polish 20-1 favorite with a first round TKO.

Q: You beat Fonfara as a 18-1 underdog, what was that like for you?
A: “That was a night I will never forget. The crowd was really loud, and there were a lot of Fonfara fans there, that I was able to make my fans. I knew I could beat him, I really believed it. We realized that [Fonfara] left himself open when he punched, and that’s what I looked for.”

Later that year, the Smith Jr. train continued into what was dubbed the #Final1, as living boxing legend, BERNARD HOPKINS, hand-picked Smith Jr. as his opponent for the curtain call of his legendary career. However, the upset minded Smith had other plans, knocking Hopkins out of the ring, onto the Forum floor, in one of the most spectacular and memorable knockouts in recent boxing history.
(Watch Hopkins-Smith Highlights HERE.)

Q: The nickname, “The Common Man,” started appearing around the Hopkins fight, why was that?
A: “Well it actually began during the press conference against Hopkins. Hopkins was crafty and used whatever he could to get an advantage. At the press conference he started yelling and screaming and basically said that he was special, and I was just common. My promoter Joe DeGuardia started talking about how I was proud to be a ‘Common Man’ and a working laborer. All of that is true and it kind of stuck. But I think I took care of that (slight by Hopkins) when I knocked him out of the ring. About a year later I saw Hopkins at the BWAA awards dinner, and he said to me, ‘hey Joe get over here so we can talk about that push.’ I think I earned a lot of respect from him and everyone else that fight.”

Q: Was it your goal to go in there and be the first fighter to knock Hopkins out?
A: “Yea, I wanted to be the first guy to knock him out, but I must say, [Hopkins] is one tough guy man. I hit him with some clean hard shots, and he was still there, punching back. When I had him against the ropes, I hit him with a right hand that I saw basically had him out on his feet, before I hit him with a left hand that sent him out of the ring.”

After fighting nine-rounds with a broken jaw on HBO against Sullivan Barrera at the Forum, then devouring Melvin Russell in the first round at Mohegan Sun on NESN, Smith Jr. would get the opportunity to fight for his first world title against Russian technician DMITRY BIVOL.

Q: What did you learn from the Bivol fight?
A: “The Bivol fight taught me a lot about myself. I realized that to win at that level, I needed to have better movement, and be more fluid. I needed to stay busier and be more focused the whole time, not just looking for one big shot. I wish I would have started faster in that fight.”

Q: Speaking of one big shot, you landed a massive right hand at the nd of the tenth-round. Do you ever re-watch that clip and think to yourself, if only I had ten more seconds?
A: “Oh yes I do. I watch the clip of that every time. If I just pushed myself harder from the beginning, I think I could have won that fight. Maybe winning this title on April 10th will help me get back to that fight again.”

Bouncing back from the Bivol fight, Smith Jr. dominated in a due or die challenge against then #1 rated light heavyweight JESSE HART on ESPN for the WBO NABO Title. There was a lot of bad blood leading up to the fight, as Hart, a Philadelphia native, felt he had to make up for what Smith did to his mentor and fellow Philly native, Bernard Hopkins, four years prior.
(Watch Hart-Smith Highlights HERE.)

Q: Hart seemed to really take your fight personally talking about how he was going to knock you out in honor of his mentor Bernard Hopkins. What did you think about that?
A: “He was one of those guys that was making someone else’s problems his. He was telling me he was going to knock me out, and that he had more knockouts than me, and I think at the time he only had one more knockout than me. He said at the bell he was going to come right to me and fight, so the bell rang and I ran to the middle of the ring and he started dancing around me like a ballerina and I said, ‘Dude I thought you were going to come to fight.’”

In August of 2020, coming off of the Hart victory, Smith Jr. was in the finals of the WBO World Title eliminator, against then #1 rated light heavyweight and former world champion, ELIEDER ALVAREZ on ESPN in the Bubble at the MGM Grand. Conjuring his inner 2016, Smith Jr. tore up and dominated Alvarez, culminating in a ninth-round TKO, sending Alvarez through the ropes, similar to the knockout of Hopkins.
(Watch Alvarez-Smith Highlights HERE.)

Q: You were the underdog again against Alvarez. Some analysts had you as a very live dog which proved to be true. How did you handle being the underdog in this fight?
A: “I don’t mind being the underdog. You have to know your skill and know that you can always win. Going into that fight was different because it was at the Bubble, and there were no fans, but I didn’t mind it because there were no distractions at all.”

Q: Alvarez was the second consecutive #1 light heavyweight and favored fighter that you fought in 2020. Does that play in your mind at all leading up to a fight?
A: “Anybody is a dangerous opponent. I was confident in both fights, but there is always that thought in your head that this guy can beat you. Anybody can lose, but as long as you work hard and do what you need to do, you will win. That’s what I think. I can beat anybody anywhere, anytime.”

Looking forward to 2021, Smith Jr. is set to challenge for a world title for the second time. No longer a secret in the boxing world, Smith Jr. enters April 10 on ESPN against Russian veteran, Maxim Vlasov, for the vacant WBO World Title. Smith Jr. will look to bring the world title back to Long Island, setting himself up for major opportunities later in 2021.
SMITH JR vs VLASOV OFFICIAL TRAILER
Joe Smith Jr vs Maxim Vlasov | April 10th OFFICIAL TRAILER
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, the Smith-Vlasov World Championship card will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes on April 10 at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Use the hashtag #SmithVlasov to join the conversation on social media. For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing or www.starboxing.com; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing, Facebook.com/StarBoxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing ;twitter.com/ESPNRingside; twitter.com/starboxing

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About ESPN+
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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 $12.99/month (Hulu w/ads) or $18.99/month (Hulu w/o ads).
UPCOMING EVENT:

JOE SMITH JR. battles for the vacant WBO World Light Heavyweight Title in the main event on ESPN against Russian veteran Maxim Vlasov

April 10|Tulsa, OK| ESPN

CALLUM JOHNSON will be back in action on April 24^th after more than TWO YEARS of inactivity. The Queensberry newbie will return on the card headlined by Denzel Bentley’s defence of his British title against Felix Cash.

Johnson insists he is on course for a second world title challenge and huge domestic clashes against fellow Queensberry boxers Lyndon Arthur and Anthony Yarde, but first must shake off the ring rust as he battles experienced Bosnian, Emil Markic (32-2, 24 KO’s).

‘The One’ faces Markic for the vacant WBO Global Light-Heavyweight title over ten rounds in London on Saturday April 24, (live on BT Sport).

Boston’s Johnson who recently returned to Frank Warren’s stable hasn’t boxed since an impressive stoppage win against American Sean Monaghan in March 2019.

The former British and Commonwealth champion said: “I have been out for two years, but I am not bothered what level I come back at. I am a fighter at the end of the day.

“There is pressure after two years out. I just hope I remember to do it right when I get back in there. I’m sure I will.”

Johnson (18-1, 13KOs) was fearless when he challenged IBF World title holder Artur Beterbiev in October 2018. He floored the division’s main man before losing in the fourth round of a brutal war.

Callum who started his career with Warren believes the Hall of Fame promoter will get him back in the big time at home and on the global stage.

He also hopes a potential tournament featuring Commonwealth champion Arthur, Yarde and himself will be a big attraction for fans.

“I just want activity, to be in exciting fights and have a great couple of years,” Johnson added.

“I think Lyndon and Anthony are good fighters, but I believe I am the best in the country and would beat anybody.

“Do I believe I will beat them two? One million per-cent.

“Are they good fighters? Of course they are. It’s good that there are a few good fighters in our division that makes it so exciting.

“We can all fight each other. It can be like the UFC where a few fighters can fight each other and a loss doesn’t matter.

“You can get back a few months later and fight another guy so it’s exciting and something fans will like.”

Markic turned professional in June 2012 and twice won the WBO European Light-Heavyweight title, but never defended that crown after victories on the road against Denis Liebau and Kavin Gebhard.

He has won seven fights on the spin since losing to world ranked Umar Salamov in May 2017, but Johnson is unconcerned by his rival’s form.

Callum said: “People will see I have been out for a while, but I haven’t been off the scene. I have been in the gym, sparring, stayed fit and healthy.

“Until the night we won’t know, but I am not expecting to show much ring rust and to do a job on Markic.”

Headlining the behind closed doors show is Battersea’s Denzel Bentley (14-0-1, 12KOs) who makes the first defence of his British Middleweight title against mandatory challenger Felix Cash (13-0, 9 KOs), who will be risking his Commonwealth championship.

The show will also see the return to action of Queensberry starlet’s David Adeleye, George Davey, Henry Turner, James Heneghan and Karol Itauma.

New York (April 3, 2021) – When Long Island’s, JOE SMITH JR. (26-3 21KO’s) takes on Russian veteran, MAXIM VLASOV (45-3 26KO’s) for the WBO World Light Heavyweight Championship on April 10, on ESPN in Oklahoma, he has the opportunity to engrain his name among Long Island boxing royalty.

Long Island, compromised of just two counties, Nassau and Suffolk, has a strong home-grown boxing population. Boxing gyms are scattered across the island breeding both amateur and professional talent. However, only 4 Long Island born boxers have ever held an elusive World Championship.

In 1988, BUDDY MCGIRT (73-6-1 48KO’s) became the first Long Island born world champion. Hailing from Brentwood, Long Island, McGirt would go on to have a hall of fame career, becoming a three-time world champion.

In 2011 Star Boxing started its critically acclaimed Long Island series, “Rockin’ Fights.” As a result, just 5 years from the series inception, but 38 years after McGirt’s championship, Long Island had its second World Champion when Star Boxing’s CHRIS ALGIERI (24-3 9KO’s) won the WBO Super Lightweight World Title at the Barclay’s Center. In an incredible effort, Algieri got off the canvas to beat the “Russian Rocky” Ruslan Provodnikov in 2016 to secure the World Championship.
(Watch Provodnikov-Algieri HERE).

The effort to build Long Island boxing continued when, in 2019, Coram Long Island born Marine, JAMEL HERRING (22-2 10KO’S) won the WBO Super Featherweight World Title against Japans, Masayuki Ito. Also, while not usually counted among Long Island born and bred Champions, recognition must be given to former world champion, Jake Rodriguez, who resides in Central Islip Long Island, but was born in Puerto Rico.

Now, this Saturday, 2021 could bring the biggest bang for Long Island fight fans. With a win on April 10, Smith Jr. will join the Mount Rushmore of Long Island boxing royalty. “Bringing that title back to Long Island is everything I have worked for” said Smith Jr. “It will be a big accomplishment for me, and it will lead to bigger and better fights.”

In “Common Man” fashion, this fight has not come without its hurdles. Originally scheduled for February 13, but later postponed due to Vlasov testing positive for COVID-19, Smith has found his silver lining, “I am putting in the work and I should be in even better shape than I was the first time. I have been through a lot of up and downs in my career, but I believe this is going to be the time that I win the World Championship. It’s going to be a great night.”

“We have had tremendous support from Long Island boxing fans and it is very rewarding to see the World Championship belts here again. Joe Smith Jr is a thrilling fighter and we look forward to having another home-grown Long Island World Champion. Be sure to watch ESPN on April 10th and support Joe Smith Jr. in his quest to win the World Championship.” stated JOE DEGUARDIA, the President of Star Boxing.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, the Smith-Vlasov World Championship card will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes on April 10 at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

John Hedges says he can’t wait to showcase the improvements he has made under new trainer Mark Tibbs when he takes on Stanko Jermelicin a four round Light-Heavyweight contest this Saturday April 10, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories.

‘The Gentleman’ overcame a tricky introduction to life in the paid ranks with a hard-fought 39-37 points win over the tough and game Manchester-based Czech Jan Ardon at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes last October on the Buatsi vs. Calic undercard. 

Despite making his pro debut at the tender age of 18, the S-JAM Boxing prospect came under criticism from some quarters, but Hedges hasn’t let his critics get to him and is fully focused on starting 2021 in impressive fashion in the Capital.

“It was just one of those things,” said Hedges. “I had to get it done. I rushed it a little bit. I was only a pro for about two or three months heading into my first fight. Looking back at it, I’m glad I took that risk. I boxed a good opponent and I got the win, and now we move forward into a bright 2021. 

“It was a last-minute opponent that we took on short notice. It wasn’t what we’d prepared for, but we took it. I’m just happy that I got my first fight under my belt. The circumstances weren’t the best but I got the job done. It was my first fight out of a headguard and my first fight against a senior. It was all new to me so it was good to get it out of the way.”

The 6’ 5” Takeley native made the switch from the Hoddesdon Boxing Academy, where he enjoyed a long and successful stint in the amateurs, to the Origin Gym in Rainham earlier this year where he now trains alongside the likes of WBO Super-Middleweight ruler Billy Joe Saunders and Southampton Light-Heavyweight contender Lewie Edmondson. 

Tibbs won’t be in Hedges’ corner this weekend as he is busy preparing Saunders for his huge unification clash with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in Texas next month, but Hedges says the well-respected coach has already had a big influence on him in the short time they have been working together. 

“It was a big move in my career. I needed a freshen up and I’ve got that. I was advised to make this move and I’ve listened to that advice. Since I’ve been down here, I feel like I’ve come on loads already. I’m enjoying my training and I feel blessed to have so many good fighters around me. We’re all on the same mission to make it to the top. 

“We’ve had some cracking rounds with Lewie Edmondson. We both work hard and we’re bringing each other on. You can’t knock it, it’s unbelievable. They’ve welcomed me with open arms. They chucked me in at the deep end. That’s the type of sparring you need to develop as a fighter.

“Eddie told me to stay ready and stay in shape. I’m feeling really strong. I’m hitting hard and training well. I’m in a really good place at the moment. It’s still early days with Mark but you can feel the improvements in yourself. I’m improving in every session and I’m coming out of the gym knackered. It’s just little improvements here and there. 

“I can hold my own with whatever weight I’m put in with. Mark will tell you, anyone that I get put in there with in sparring I hold my own with. He’s not concerned about that. All he’s worried about is keeping me strong and keeping me flowing. I might be young, but I don’t care if I’m in the deep end or who I fight. I just listen to my team and my management.”

Hedges vs. Dvorak is part of a big night of action on April 10, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (17-0, 11 KOs) defends his WBA Continental Title against Samuel Vargas (31-6-2, 14 KOs) in the main event, Watford’s Shannon Courtenay (6-1, 3 KOs) faces Australia’s Ebanie Bridges  (5-0, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title, Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) returns after her win over Hannah Rankin, Glasgow Bantamweight Kash Farooq (14-1, 6 KOs) challenges Alexander Espinoza (20-2-2) for the WBC International Silver Bantamweight Title and Glasgow Heavyweight Nick Campbell makes his professional debut. 

LOS MOCHIA, Sonora, Mexico (April 3, 2021) – Unbeaten Mexican featherweight Alan “Lachorro” Solis captured the vacant World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight title last Friday night on the RJJ Boxing event, Roy Jones, Jr. Boxing Promotions and De La O Promotions, at Polideportivo Centenario in Los Mochia, Sonora, Mexico.

RJJ Boxing was streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat RJJ Boxing sports. To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com.

The 22-year-old Solis (13-0-1, 7 KOs) outboxed his dangerous opponent, Jonathan “El Fenix” Aguilar (19-9, 15 KOs), from start to finish for a unanimous 10-round unanimous decision in the main event. The new WBO featherweight champion stepped up his quality of opposition in Aguilar, who has ring experience against former world super bantamweight champion Angelo Leo, as well as world title challengers Dewayne Beamon and former Ghana Olympian Duke Micah.

In the co-featured event, WBC Continental Latino American welterweight champion Mauicio “Trompas” Pintor (24-4-1, 14 KOs) edged San Antonio welterweight Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda (17-4, 8 KOs), a former NABA super lightweight titlist, by way of a close, unanimous 8-round decision (77-474, 76-75, 76-75) in a non-title clash. The difference was a 1-point deduction for Castaneda for hitting Pinto, the nephew of Hall of Famer and 2-division world champion Lupe Pintor, in the back during a clinch. Pintor overcame a cut over his left eye from an accidental headbutt in round three. Castaneda suffered his fourth consecutive loss.

WBC Youth Silver lightweight champion Luis “Koreano” Torres (11-0, 8 KOs) kept rolling, stopping Jose “Cuate” Paez (13-2-1, 10 KOs) in the fifth round, when he unloaded a flurry of unanswered punches in their non-title fight. Torres is 4-0 fighting on RJJ Boxing cards in which his opponents entered the ring with an accumulative record of 41-2-1.

Las Vegas flyweight prospect Kevin Urrutia improved to 2-0 as a pro boxer with a devastating third-round knockout of Miguel Angel “Tyson” Vazquez (0-4).

Rjj Boxing results below:

RJJ BOXING RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT WBO LATINO FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Alan Solis (13-0-1, 7 KOs), Ciudad Juarez, Chichuahoa, Mexico
WDEC10 (99-91, 97-93, 97-93)
Jonathan Aguilar (19-9, 15 KOs), Tuxtia Gutierrez, Chapas, Mexico
(Solis won vacant WBO Latino featherweight title)

CO-FEATIURE –WELTERWEIGHTS
Mauricio Pintor (24-3-1, 14 KOs), Cuajimalpa, Distrito Federal, Mexico
WDEC8 (77-74, 76-75, 76-75)
Kendo Castaneda (17-4, 8 KOs), San Antonio, Texas, USA

LIGHTWEIGHTS
Luis Torres (11-0, 8 KOs), Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico
WTKO5 (2:53)
Jose Paez (13-2-1, 10 KOs), Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico

FLYWEIGHTS
Kevin Urrutia (2-0, 2 KOs), Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
WKO3 (1:57)
Miguel Angel Vazquez (0-4), Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico

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.

PHILADELPHIA (APRIL 2, 2021)–Weights for Saturday night’s RDR Promotions card at the 2300 Arena

Joey Dawejko 264 – Joe Jones 207.4
Nahir Albright 137 – Dante Cox 134.8
Benny Sinakin 174.1 – Afunwa King 175.5
Mike Hilton 198.7 – Twon Smith 199.3
Tahmir Smalls 146.4 – Andres Abarca 146.4
Matthew Gonzalez 143.4 – Luis Eduardo Florez 144.6
Rasheen Brown 128.1 – Christopher Nelson TBA (Will weigh in tomorrow)
Jahdon Ervin 157.5 – Kareem Gladney 159.9

PROMOTER: RDR PROMOTIONS
1ST BELL: 7 PM ET
VENUE: 2300 ARENA
STREAM: BXNGTV.COM

LINK TO ORDER:
https://bxngtv.com/rdr-promotions-presents-bxng-the-next-generation-4-3-21-e/

NEW YORK (April 2, 2021)

Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing is pleased to announce the signing of well regarded middleweight, BADIEN “BAD MAN” HASSO (19-0 10KO’s). Badien first laced up the gloves at the age of 9 and quickly realized that he was a skilled combatant. His skills were showcased internationally as he represented Germany multiple times as an amateur. Rated in the top of his weight class, Badien finished as the runner-up twice in the German Amateur Championships. Finishing with an impressive amateur record of 68-5-1 before turning professional at the young age of 19 in 2014.

Born in Shekhan, Iraq in 1994, Badien grew up with three brothers and four sisters. Badien’s father is a member of the Kurdish Democratic Party. In an effort to escape the regime of Saddam Hussein, Badien and his family fled Iraq for Oberhausen, Germany. While in Germany, Badien helped in the creation of the Yezidi Women’s Peshmerga Unit, an all women militia formed in Iraq in 2015 to protect the Yazidi community from attacks. Baiden’s parents eventually were able to return to Iraq where his father is one of the leaders of the Shingal region.

Since turning pro, Badien’s unique journey continued, fighting in Germany, Mexico and the United States. Setting his sites on a world title run, Badien teamed up with trainer Dwight Yarde, and has been training out of Henderson, Nevada ever since.

Badien had this to say about signing with Star Boxing, “Big thanks to Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing. I look forward to taking the middleweight division by storm and showing the world what we Kurds are all about!”

“Exciting times for middleweight contender Badien Hasso” said Badien’s trainer, DWIGHT YARDE. “We look forward to a long and prosperous journey to the top with Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing.”

Star Boxing CEO, JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the signing, “Badien is a young, talented fighter with an incredible life journey that brought him to the United States all because of boxing. We are excited to add Badien to our talented roster. We believe in his abilities and look forward to watching him rise the ranks of a stellar middleweight division.”

FOLLOW BADIEN ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Instagram: @Badien_Hasso
Twitter: @BadienH
Facebook: Badien Hasso

UPCOMING EVENTS:

JOE SMITH JR. battles for the vacant WBO World Light Heavyweight Title in the main event on ESPN against Russian veteran Maxim Vlasov
FOR TICKETS CLICK HERE

April 10|Tulsa, OK| ESPN

The Sports Zone in Derry will play host as OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY makes his 2021 debut in New Hampshire, looking to add his 11th victory,

April 17| Derry, NH

Murodjon Akhmadaliev says he will target his fellow champions if he can successfully defend his WBA Super and IBF World Super-Bantamweight titles against Ryosuke Iwasa at the Humo Arena in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, live worldwide on DAZN on Saturday (7am PT/10am ET/3pm GMT/7pm local)

Akhmadaliev (8-0 6 KOs) became unified champion in just his seventh pro outing when he took the belts from Daniel Roman in Miami in January 2020.

The COVID pandemic robbed ‘MJ’ of the chance to capitalize on that success but while he was unable to defend the belts in the States but now, he gets the chance to fight on home soil for the first time as a pro, on a bill stacked with Uzbek talent.

The 26 year old headlines the card alongside teammates and friends Israil Madrimov and Shakhram Giyasov, and Uzbekistan’s first unified World champion is excited to be able to bring such a huge night of action to his homeland, against a dangerous opponent in the in-form Iwasa (27-3 17 KOs) who bounced back from a World title defeat to TJ Doheny with two wins.

“When you fight at home, defending what belongs to you, that’s probably the most important fight,” said Akhmadaliev. “To give a good fight under the bright lights, that’s what I’m looking forward to. It’s a dream for any fighter to perform at home.

“Israil, Shakhram and I have been together for 15 years. We worked for World amateur rankings and becoming Asian Champions, World Champions, Olympians. 

“We’ve been together through everything. Now being professional and have the chance to fight in a huge event at home, already being the champion is huge.

“Ryosuke Iwasa is a warrior, he’s been in the ring with the very best. I rate him very highly and believe he is a very dangerous fighter. 

“I have studied him and am ready for him as always. My team have done the work and I will do the work in the ring. I’m not going to give up anything to anybody.

“He is trying to get what is mine, but that’s not going to happen. Boxing is not always easy, just like life. It’s pretty much always hard, you have to have tough fights in the ring and in life. 

“You have to endure tough times and that’s how it’s been in my life. I’m prepared for any challenge because of that. I am only focused on Iwasa, but as a champion my dream is to win every belt.

“If everything goes well tomorrow night, I will not avoid anybody, I want all the belts. I’m blessed to be a World Champion, now defending my belts at home is the next goal for me.

“I’m looking forward to showcasing myself which is important to my countrymen, family and friends. I look forward to bringing the attention of the boxing world to Uzbekistan.”

In the evening’s chief support bout, Super-Lightweight star Shakhram Giyasov (10-0, 8 KOs) returns home for his first pro fight in his homeland. With over a million Instagram followers and massive popularity in his home country, ‘Wonderboy’ rose to fame after winning silver at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, adding to his gold medals at the World and Asian Championships at Welterweight. 

Since signing promotional terms with Eddie Hearn in April 2019, the 27-year-old sensation has displayed his destructive power with big knockout wins over Colombian former World Champion Darleys Perez and Wiston Campos in his last fight – and tomorrow night he defends his WBA International Super-Lightweight title against Mexico’s Patricio Lopez Moreno (28-4 20 KOs).

Rising Super-Welterweight star Israil Madrimov (6-0, 5 KOs) has made an electric start to life in the paid ranks, leaving his decorated amateur career behind and winning a Title in his first pro outing in November 2018 to signal his intentions. 

‘The Dream’ defeated Eric Walker in a final eliminator for the WBA World title in the streets of downtown Tulsa, Oklahoma last August to stay on track to beat his ‘brother’ Akhmadaliev’s record of unifying his division before eight fights. 

This time he faces the Democratic Republic Of The Congo’s Emmany Kalombo (14-0, 14 KOs), who has won all fourteen of his professional contests inside the distance since turning professional in Kempton Park, South Africa in August 2015.

Some of the best up-and-coming fighters from one of boxing’s emerging powerhouses have the chance to impress; undefeated Heavyweight Bakhodir Jalolov (7-0, 6 KOs) looks to extend his four-fight KO streak, Flyweight prospect Hasanboy Dusmatov (2-0, 2 KOs) faces Mushin Kizota (11-2 5 KOs) for the vacant WBA International Light-Flyweight title, Cruiserweight Sanjar Tursanov (2-0, 1 KO) sees action and there’s professional debuts for Welterweight Ikboljon Kholdarov and Featherweight Mirazizbek Mirzakhalilov.

WEIGHTS FROM TASHKENT

12 x 3 mins WBA Super and IBF World Super-Bantamweight titles

Murodjon Akhmadaliev (121.2lbs)         vs.     Ryosuke Iwasa (121.6lbs)
(Chust, Uzbekistan)                                  (Kashiwa, Japan)

10 x 3 mins WBA International Super-Lightweight title

Shakhram Giyasov (139.5lbs)        vs.     Patricio Lopez Moreno (139.3lbs)
(Bukhara, Uzbekistan)                    (Los Mochis, Mexico)

10 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest

Israil Madrimov (153.4lbs)   vs.     Emmany Kalombo (153.6lbs)
(Khiva, Uzbekistan)                         (Democratic Republic of Congo)

6 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest

Bakhodir Jalovov (250lbs)    vs.     Kristaps Zutis (255lbs)         
(Sariosiyo, Uzbekistan)          (Sabile, Latvia)   

PENSACOLA, FL (April 2, 2021) – 12-time world champion, Roy Jones Jr. (66-9, 47 KOs), has let it be known that he is willing to battle Oscar De La Hoya (39-6, 30 KOs) in his return to the ring fight this summer on Triller.

“I spoke to Roy today and he is feeling great, and is willing to fight Oscar De La Hoya,” said Alfy Smith, Roy Jones Jr.’s trainer. “I know that they never got to fight based off weight classes before, but now would be the perfect time to give the fans a great fight that they’d thought they would get to see. De La Hoya has one of the greatest left hooks in boxing history, Roy has a devastating hook as well, we shall see who will be the real “Captain Hook.”

Jones Jr. who returned on November 28th, against Mike Tyson in a box office shattering pay-per-view, that saw the two men fight to a draw, now is looking to get in the mix with another legend such as himself.

“The fans all over the world love Roy Jones Jr and Oscar De La Hoya, continued Smith. “This is a great fight, an exciting matchup where you would only dream it up in a video game, now we have a chance to make it a reality. Roy is still active and training every day, he’s in tremendous shape and his speed is still crisp.”

Shannon Courtenay says that she won’t let Ebanie Bridges “mind games” get to her as their clash for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title on Saturday April 10 draws closer, with all of the action shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and more than 200 countries and territories.

‘The Baby Face Assassin’ (6-1, 3 KOs) has refused to be drawn into a social media spat with ‘The Blonde Bomber’, despite the 5-0 Australian’s best attempts, and has even gone as far as blocking her on Twitter ahead of their huge showdown on the Conor Benn vs. Samuel Vargas undercard. 

Watford’s Courtenay suffered her one and only defeat at the hands of Rachell Ball at Matchroom Fight Camp last summer, a loss that the 27-year-old believes has made her a better person inside and outside of the ring as she prepares to win world honours in just her eighth pro fight. 

“There was no hesitation from me when they offered me the fight,” said Courtenay. “It’s a fight that has been brewing for a while. It’s a fight that the fans want to see. Stylistically it makes for a great fight as well. The fact that it’s for a World Title too makes it an even bigger fight. 

“She’s a good fighter. She’s come forward and aggressive. Stylistically it’s going to be a very good fight. I’m going to win. I’m not going to say how I’m going to do it. I’m confident in myself and I’m confident in my ability. It’s evident that I can dig hard. She looks like she can dig hard as well. 

“She likes to stand and trade and I like to stand and trade. I just want to fight. I just want to punch her in the face. If she wants to burn her energy and time on social media, then let her do that. If she wants to put polls out about underwear and wear a tiara on weigh-in day then crack on. Fill your boots. I don’t care. I’m there to fight. 

“I’ve learnt and adapted lots from my loss. It’s made me a better person inside and outside of the ring. Mentally I’m a hell of a lot stronger now. I was gutted to hear Rachel had pulled out but safety comes first so I wish her a speedy recovery. All that’s changed is the opponent, the outcome is still the same

“This is the fight game. It’s not a fashion show or a catwalk. I’m too long in the tooth to let mind games get to me. She can attempt to push my buttons all she likes. She won’t be fazing me in the slightest. I’m in a very good mind space. I’m content, happy and excited. I won’t be denied on April 10. I’ll do my talking with my fists.”

Courtenay vs. Bridges is part of a big night of action on April 10, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (17-0, 11 KOs) defends his WBA Continental Title against Samuel Vargas (31-6-2, 14 KOs) in the main event, Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) makes the first defence of her WBO Middleweight World Title against European Champion Femke Hermans (11-3, 4 KOs), Glasgow Bantamweight Kash Farooq (14-1, 6 KOs) returns after his masterclass win over Angel Aviles, Takeley Super-Middleweight John ‘The Gentleman’ Hedges (1-0) looks to build on his pro debut win last October and Glasgow Heavyweight Nick Campbell makes his professional debut. 

(ESPN+, 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT)

    •    Jamel Herring 129.4. lbs vs. Carl Frampton 129.9 lbs 
(Herring’s WBO Jr. Lightweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
Judges: Zoltan Enyedi (Hungary), Ferenc Budai (Hungary) and Giulio Piras (Italy)
Referee: Giustino Di Giovanni (Italy)

•          Zhankosh Turarov 140 lbs vs. Tyrone McKenna 139.6 lbs 
(Turarov’s WBO Intercontinental Jr. Welterweight Title — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 2 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. PT)

•   Keyshawn Davis 138.2 lbs vs. Richman Ashelley 136 lbs 
(Jr. Welterweight — 6 Rounds)

•     Donnie Nietes 114.9 lbs vs. Pablo Carrillo 114.6 
(Vacant WBO International Jr. Bantamweight Title  — 10 Rounds)

•         Tursynbay Kulakhmet 153.9 lbs vs. Heber Rondon 153.7 
(Kulakhmet’s WBC International Super Welterweight Title  — 10 Rounds)
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LOS ANGELES, April 2, 2021 — Triller Fight Club today announced the completion of a world-class lineup of boxing for its April 17 event at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with the addition of Cincinnati native William Jackson (13-2-2, 5 KOs), who will oppose Quinton Randall (Houston, 7-0, 2 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight bout. Triller Fight Club (www.trillerfightclub.com) is a partnership between leading music and social media platform Triller and Snoop Dogg, and is spearheaded by visionary producer Ryan Kavanaugh.

Jackson, who began his professional boxing career in 2008, has developed a strong fan following in his native Cincinnati, the location of nearly all of his bouts. The matchup with Randall represents a return to the ring for Jackson, who last competed in 2017, when he battled Tre’Sean Wiggins to a draw.

Jackson joins a card headlined by Jake Paul (Cleveland) taking on former Bellator and OneFC champion Ben Askren (Cedar Rapids, Ohio); Regis Prograis (New Orleans) battling Ivan Redkach (Shostka, Ukraine); and heavyweight MMA Bad Boy Frank Mir (Las Vegas) opposing Steve Cunningham (Philadelphia).

Other matchups on the April 17 card include Joe Fournier (London) challenging music icon and worldwide star Reykon (Envigado, Colombia); super middleweight Junior Younan (Brooklyn, N.Y.) vs. Jeyson Minda (Quito, Ecuador/Salem, Mass.); and middleweight Lorenzo “Truck” Simpson (Baltimore) vs. Francisco Torres (Buenos Aires).

The lineup for the four-hour Pay Per View show, Triller Fight Club’s first in a series of 2021 special events, will include performances by Justin Bieber, The Black Keys, Doja Cat, Saweetie, Diplo, Major Lazer, and the exclusive world premiere of the hip hop supergroup Mt. Westmore (Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Too $hort and E-40) performing for their first time ever together. Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Bert Marcus will lead and direct the creative storytelling for the Triller Fight Club event.

The lead up to April 17 officially also includes an original series exclusively on Triller and FITE. “PRBLM CHILD” is a raw, all-access look into the life of one of the world’s most polarizing and controversial personalities, YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul, as he trains for his fight vs. Askren. The series also will include boxing legends Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Ryan Garcia, Jorge Masvidal and Snoop Dogg, among many more.

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.

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 event. Fans will be able to order the event on PPV through their existing cable, satellite and telco PPV providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, DIRECTV & U-Verse TV, Fios, and Optimum in the U.S., as well as leading providers in Canada.

FITE, the premier PPV digital platform, will handle worldwide live pay-per-view streaming distribution online, and via FITE mobile and Smart TV apps, game controllers and all major OTT devices as well as power TrillerFightClub.com.

The suggested PPV retail price for the event is $49.99 (U.S. & Canada). Fans outside North America can check the FITE link at https://www.fite.tv/watch/jake-paul-vs-ben-askren/2p8y0/ for international pricing. All fight information can be found at TrillerFightClub.com, which features fight news, announcements, promotional videos, and the digital portal to buy the event.

**HOW TO WATCH THE APRIL 17, 2021, TRILLER FIGHT CLUB PPV EVENT**

TV: Cable, satellite & telco PPV providers, including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, DIRECTV & U-Verse TV, Fios, and Optimum (U.S.), as well as leading providers in Canada.

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

Triller Fight Club, April 17, 2021

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

Bout Schedule as of April 1, 2021

Main event:

Jake Paul, Cleveland (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. Ben Askren, Cedar Rapids, Iowa (pro debut/boxing, 19-2-0, 6 Kos/MMA), 8 rounds, cruiserweight

Undercard:

Regis Prograis, New Orleans (25-1, 21 KOs) vs. Ivan Redkach, Shostka, Ukraine (23-5, 18 KOs), 10 rounds, super lightweight

Steve Cunningham, Philadelphia (29-9-1, 13 KOs), vs. Frank Mir, Las Vegas (pro debut/boxing, 18-11-0, 14KOs/MMA), 8 rounds, heavyweight

Joe Fournier, London (8-0, 8 KOs), vs. Andres Felipe Robledo Lodono (“Reykon”), Envigado, Colombia (pro debut), 6 rounds, light heavyweight

Junior Younan, Brooklyn (15-0-1, 10 KOs), vs. Jeyson Minda, Quito, Ecuador (14-4-1, 8 KOs), 8 rounds, super middleweight

Lorenzo Simpson, Baltimore (9-0, 5 KOs) vs. Francisco Torres (Buenos Aires, 16-3-1) 8 rounds, middleweight

Quinton Randall, Houston (7-0, 2 KOs) vs William Jackson, Cincinnati (13-2-2, 2 KOs) 8 rounds, welterweight