LAS VEGAS (January 14, 2021) — The first super middleweight world champion of Mexican decent, undefeated Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (41-0, 27 KOs) is all in for a potential World Boxing Council (WBC) Interim light heavyweight World title fight against 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne (23-1, 16 KOs).

The WBC ordered Ramirez vs. Browne this past Monday because reigning WBC light heavyweight World champion Artur Beterbiev (15-0, 15 KOs) hasn’t defended his title since capturing it October 18, 2019, due to getting COVID-19 during training camp, as well as for other pandemic related restrictions. Beterbiev is also the reigning International Boxing Federation (IBF) light heavyweight World champion.

Ramirez is the No. 1 light heavyweight contender in the WBC ratings, while Browne is ranked No. 4. Team Zurdo and Team Browne have until February 5th to work out a deal before it’ll go to purse bid. Martinez is promoted by his own company, Zurdo Promotions, while Browne is represented by PBC.

“This is an interesting opportunity and I’m ready to fight anyone in the light heavyweight division to leave my mark on the sport,” Ramirez said. “I know Marcus has been out of the ring for a while, but he’s a U.S. Olympian and still one of the best in the game. I know he’s wanted this fight for a while and hopefully we can make something happen.

“In addition, it’s always been my dream to get the green belt (WBC) and bring it back to Mexico. I have a lot of respect for the WBC and Mauricio Suliman and I am grateful for all their love and support throughout my career.”

Last month, Ramirez fought for the first time in 20 months, stopping defending champion Alfonso “El Tigre” Lopez (32-4, 25 KOs) in the 10th round of the “Battle of Rio Grande” main event, which marked the debut of Zurdo Promotions.

The 29-year-old Ramirez became the first Mexican fighter to capture a world super middleweight crown in 2016, when the ultra-gifted, athletic southpaw pitched a complete shutout against defending title holder “King” Arthur Abraham
(44-4), winning each round for a 12-round unanimous decision (120-106 X 3) to become the World Boxing Organization (WBO) world champion.

Ramirez successful defended his WBO title five times against 33-4-1 Maksym Bursak (DEC12), 22-0 Jessie Hart (DEC12), 25-0-1 Habib Ahmed (25-0-1), 23-0 Roemer Alexis Angulo (DEC12), and Hart again in a rematch (DEC12). “Zurdo” moved up to the light heavyweight division in 2019, destroying 29-6-1 Tommy Karpency, who was unable to continue fighting after four rounds.

A talented southpaw as well, Browne was a decorated U.S. amateur out of New York City, who won gold medals at the 2010 U.S. National PAL Championships and 2012 U.S. National Championships, prior to representing the U.S. at the Olympic Games in London.

Browne, 30, is a past WBA Interim light heavyweight World champion. He has beaten a pair of word champions, 22-1-3 Badou Jack (DEC12) and 25-7-1 Gabriel Campillo (25-7-2). Other notable opponents he has defeated include 21-0 Radivoje Kalajdzic (DEC8), 20-2 Thomas Williams (KO6), 28-0 Sean Monaghan (TKO2), and 18-1-1 Lenin Castillo (DEC10). Browne’s last fight was August 3, 2019, when he suffered his first loss as a professional to former world champion Jean Pascal
(33-6-1) via an eight-round technical decision, after Browne suffered a severe cut over his left eye from an accidental head-butt.

“There are always challenges to making a fight become reality,” Ramirez concluded, “but me being both the fighter and sole promoter, I’m flexible on the common problems that takes to make a fight. I’m not sure how much time Marcus will need to be ready, but both time and location can be determined when the other preliminary items are agreed upon. If it goes to a purse bid, I’m ready for the process and, hopefully, this fight can happen for both of us.”

INFORMATION:
Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com
Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions
Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Las Vegas – The first UFC^® Pay-Per-View of 2021 will feature a thrilling lightweight contenders’ bout that will see No. 2 ranked Dustin Poirier look to even the score with No. 4 Conor McGregor. In the co-main event, No. 6 ranked lightweight contender Dan Hooker looks to spoil the highly anticipated debut of Michael Chandler.

UFC^® 257: POIRIER vs. MCGREGOR 2 will take place Saturday, January 23 at Etihad Arena on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island and will stream live on Pay-Per-View, exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT in both English and Spanish.

Preliminary fights will air nationally in English on ESPN and in Spanish on ESPN Deportes, as well as be simulcast in both languages on ESPN+ starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Early prelims will be available on UFC Fight Pass and ESPN+ (in English and Spanish) at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT. The event is in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.

ESPN+ is available on ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com and the ESPN App for mobile connected TV devices.?To subscribe, visit?espnplus.com/ufc.

Former interim lightweight champion Poirier (26-6, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) looks to continue his momentum following his thrilling victory against Dan Hooker. Throughout his decorated career, Poirier has also secured impressive victories over Max Holloway (twice), Anthony Pettis and Justin Gaethje. Poirier now aims to make the most of his 25^th UFC appearance by taking out one of the biggest names in MMA history.

A former two-division UFC champion, McGregor (22-4, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland) returns to action for the first time since his spectacular KO win against Donald Cerrone one year ago. As charismatic as he is skilled in the Octagon, McGregor has delivered iconic KO victories over Eddie Alvarez, Jose Aldo and Chad Mendes. McGregor now has his sights on once again stopping Poirier to stake his claim for another lightweight title shot.

Hooker (20-9, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) has proven himself to be among the most dangerous finishers in the lightweight division. During his run in the UFC 155-pound division, he has stopped Gilbert Burns, Jim Miller and James Vick in emphatic fashion. He has also netted impressive wins over contenders Paul Felder and Al Iaquinta. Hooker now hopes to kick off 2021 with another vintage performance by derailing Chandler to re-assert himself in the title picture.

Chandler (21-5, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla.) looks to make an immediate impact in his UFC debut by stopping Hooker to send a message to the lightweight division. A three-time champion outside the UFC, he has delivered memorable victories over Benson Henderson (twice), Eddie Alvarez and Patricky Freire (twice). Chandler now aims to take advantage of his biggest spotlight yet by staking his claim as the next UFC title challenger.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Women’s flyweight contenders collide when No. 6 ranked Jessica Eye (15-8 1NC, fighting out of Cleveland, Ohio) squares off with No. 7 Joanne Calderwood (14-5, fighting out of Glasgow, Scotland)
• Exciting lightweights meet when Matt Frevola (8-1-1, fighting out of Long Island, N.Y.) faces undefeated Ottman Azaitar (13-0, fighting out of Rabat, Morocco)
• No. 8 ranked women’s flyweight contender Marina Rodriguez (12-1-2, fighting out of Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil) faces surging No. 9 Amanda Ribas (10-1, fighting out of Varginha, Minas Gerais, Brazil)
• Arman Tsarukyan (15-2, fighting out of Krasnodar, Russia, by way of Phuket, Thailand) goes for his third consecutive win against KO artist Nasrat Haqparast (12-3, fighting out of Hamburg, Germany)
• No. 14 ranked middleweight contender Brad Tavares (17-7, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) returns against submission ace Antonio Carlos Junior (11-4 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. and João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil)
• Women’s bantamweight contenders meet when No. 7 ranked Julianna Pena (10-4, fighting out of Chicago, Ill.) locks horns with No. 9 Sara McMann (12-5, fighting out of Gaffney, S.C.)
• Khalil Rountree Jr. (9-4 1NC, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) takes on Marcin Prachnio (13-5, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) in an exciting battle of light heavyweight strikers
• The Ultimate Fighter season 23 winner Andrew Sanchez (13-5, fighting out of Montreal, Canada) goes for another highlight-reel finish against Makhmud Muradov (24-6, fighting out of Bukhara, Uzbekistan)
• Nik Lentz (30-11-2 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) faces Movsar Evloev (13-0, fighting out of Sunzha, Republic of Ingushetia, Russia) in an exciting featherweight bout
• Amir Albazi (13-1, fighting out of London, England by way of Baghdad, Iraq) takes on Zhalgas Zhumagulov (13-4, fighting out of Aktobe, Kazakhstan) in an entertaining flyweight bout

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

A full line of UFC FIGHT ISLAND products, including t-shirts, hats, water bottles, tote bags, and more are available now on UFCStore.com.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 126 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 171 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 72 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

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 11.5 million subscribers.

Fans subscribe 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 offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported) — all for just $12.99/month.

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.

NEW YORK – January 13, 2021 – WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Angelo Leo and unbeaten rising star Stephen “Cool Boy” Fulton Jr. previewed their long-awaited championship showdown during a virtual press conference Wednesday as they prepare to battle live on SHOWTIME Saturday, January 23 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn.

The first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast of 2021begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a co-main event pitting two more undefeated 122-pound boxers against each other as Ra’eese Aleem and Victor Pasillas face off in a 12-round bout for the interim WBA title. In the telecast opener, rising prospect Rolando Romero squares off against Justin Pauldo in a 12-round lightweight bout for Romero’s interim WBA title. The combined ring record of the six fighters on the card is a remarkable 96 wins with just one loss.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions.

Leo and Fulton were originally scheduled to meet on SHOWTIME for the vacant title in August, before Fulton received a positive COVID-19 test. Leo went on to defeat Tramaine Williams by unanimous decision to capture the title and will now make his first defense against the unbeaten Fulton.

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

ANGELO LEO

“This is going to be a great fight. I know Fulton is coming to fight and I’m coming to fight too. We have two contrasting styles. I see it sort of as an East Coast vs. West Coast thing, so it’s going to be fireworks. This is going to be one of the best fights of the year and I can’t wait for you all to see it.

“I’m not surprised at all that Vegas has Fulton as the slight favorite. I know that he has a lot of supporters. I’ve been an underdog before. I’ve been in these shoes before, so it’s no surprise to me. It just gives me more fuel for the fire. I’m not at all offended that he’s the favorite. This is boxing and Fulton is a good fighter, but I’m looking to prove on January 23 that I’m where I belong and that I’m world champion for a reason.

“I’m known for throwing a lot of body punches and for my pressure. That’s no secret. I feel like people haven’t seen all of me yet. I have a lot to prove. I still have a lot of looks to show and come January 23, I think Stephen Fulton will bring that all out of me. I think it’s important, in every fight, to go to the body. Like they say, go to the body and the head will fall, but if he wants to move around and put pressure, I have a remedy for all that.

“Floyd [Mayweather] has been in my ear, solidifying the game plan with me. He’s been telling me exactly what I need to do to win this fight. I saw him quickly on Monday. It was brief but he just stopped in to say hello and see how I was doing.

“Being champion is something that I always wanted to be so now that I have the belt, I have the confidence I need. But I don’t take my foot off the gas just because I’m champion. They say that once you’re champion, it’s actually harder. As bad as you want it, now everybody else wants it just as bad as you do. My mentality is the same now that I’m world champion and I’m gunning for more world championships. I’m not the hunted. I’m still hunting.

“I’m going to show Stephen that it’s different when you get in the ring. There’s a lot more factors that play out. Not just pressure. Not just body work. There are a lot of things I have up my sleeve that a lot of people haven’t seen yet and I’m going to showcase all my skills on January 23.

“Johnny Tapia is the pride and joy of Albuquerque. He’s one of the greatest fighters from that city and to be mentioned with his name is an honor. Johnny Tapia was a good person, very charismatic and he showed everybody love.

“This fight is great for boxing. You have two undefeated fighters, both in their prime – what more do you want from two fighters in this boxing era? This is the marquee fight right here. This is the fight fans want to see.

“With this performance I want to let everybody know that I’m here to stay. I think a lot of people are doubting me just because I fought Tramaine Williams and they say he just had three days’ notice. But he was getting ready for a fight as well. I have a lot of doubters that I want to prove wrong and in this fight, I think I’ll have the opportunity to.”

STEPHEN FULTON

“January 23 is going to be fireworks. Leo is the champion and has that spark and fire. We’re both coming hungry and prepared to make this a great fight. This fight is actually a bit underrated because we’re smaller guys, but we’re both in the top five of this division. Leo and I both have something to prove and I’m ready to get it on.

“I don’t think the layoff will affect me at all. I think it makes me even more ready. I can’t wait to get in the ring and get back to doing what I love.

“My game plan remains the same as if I was fighting him in August. We’re always ready to make adjustments, but I believe I’m much better than if I had fought in August. From losing that opportunity and now coming back, it’s made me better physically, mentally and emotionally.

“Going through the experience of having the fight against Leo cancelled just changed my mindset. I felt like I lost everything. It made me train even harder. I took that rage and anxiety and used it every day in training. I’m just ready to fight.

“To me, it means everything to be a world champion from Philadelphia. This is what I’ve been working for my whole career. To my city, it would show people from my neighborhood that there’s a way out. But I don’t feel any pressure because of it. This sport teaches us the discipline to perform in moments like this. The pressure is just a part of my job.

“My streak of taking fighters’ ‘0’ is going to continue on January 23. Fighters have their thing that they’re known for: Gervonta Davis knocks people out, Chris Colbert shows off his flashy skills, and I take fighters’ ‘0’s. Come fight night, we’ll both be prepared and ready. I’m ready to put on a show and I believe Leo will be ready to do the same.

“I’m one of the guys leading the new era of Philadelphia boxing, but I can’t get ahead of myself. I just have to stay smart, calm and do my job. It’s all about doing what I came there to do.

“I am that next wave and I’m just ready to stamp it by getting this belt. I’m going to solidify what everyone already knew about me. I have the superstar quality in me and I’ll show it in this fight.

“Leo’s performance against Williams was what I expected. I knew he was going to come forward and be a dog, but I don’t think Williams expected it. He’s a good fighter, he earned his way here, and now we just have to fight.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“In this main event we have a highly anticipated fight that the fans have been waiting for since it was first announced. This is a meaningful fight for the 122-pound division. This is one of the hottest divisions in boxing, with a number of fighters that you can mix and match to make numerous great matchups.

“Angelo Leo is coming off a tremendous victory to win this title against Tramaine Williams. That was his coming out party. He was really impressive and made a big statement. When it comes to Fulton, you know he doesn’t lack confidence. He’s young, undefeated, talented and he feels like this will be his easiest payday to date. He believes he’s going to walk through Leo.

“This main event has two young undefeated fighters facing each other in their primes. That’s what makes a great fight. It’s also interesting that Fulton is actually a slight betting favorite, despite Leo being the champion.

“We open the telecast with Mayweather Promotions’ own Rolando Romero. ‘Rolly’ is coming off a less than impressive performance when he won the interim title, so he’ll be looking to make a big statement for fans. This is going to be a great card from top to bottom and we can’t wait.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“You won’t find many young fighters that have been against as much impressive competition as Stephen Fulton has. Seven of his victories out of his 18 wins are over undefeated fighters. It’s very impressive. He’s coming to grab what he believes is his and what should have been his back in August.

“The co-feature is the fight I’m really excited about with Ra’eese Aleem and Victor Pasillas. This is a very important matchup with very legitimate contenders. A 50-50 fight between two undefeated prospects in the hot 122-pound division. Both fighters have made it clear that they want the elite of the division and they are willing to put it all on the line January 23 to make that happen. The winner of this fight will be in the driver’s seat for any of the 122-pound champions.

“In the opener, they say styles make fights and Justin Pauldo has a style that could really give Rolando Romero some fits. He’s got a great jab and he’s in great shape and down in Houston training with Ronnie Shields. He’s coming to win. Out of the six featured fights we have only one loss between them, so we are going to see some ‘0’s go on January 23. We’re looking forward to it.”

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

anuary 13, 2021–TONIGHT!!! A terrific doubleheader featuring some of the biggest names in boxing will be streamed on fubo Sports Network.

In the main event, two of the sport’s most exciting fighters squared off in a junior welterweight thriller, as former world champion Ruslan Provodnikov (25-4, 18 KOs) battled John Molina Jr. (28-6, 23 KOs) in a 12-round clash.

It was the final bout of Provodnikov’s electrifying career, made more memorable by the fantastic show he and Molina put on for the nearly sold-out crowd at the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

The card, which took place on June 11, 2016, also featured former WBO junior middleweight world champion Demetrius Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs) against the capable Willie Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) in what was a very entertaining bout with a spectacular ending.

The action begins at 8 PM ET.

About fubo Sports Network
Available on 75 million devices, fubo Sports Network is the live, free-to-consumer TV network featuring sports stories on and off the field. Launched by live TV streaming platform fuboTV (NYSE: FUBO) in September 2019, fubo Sports Network airs live sports, award-winning original programming and partner content from CampusLore, FanDuel, Stadium, The Players Tribune, USA TODAY and VSiN, among others. Stream for free on LG Channels, News on Tubi, Plex, Samsung TV Plus, The Roku Channel, Vizio Channels and XUMO or as part of fuboTV’s base subscription package of 100+ sports, news and entertainment channels.

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

CARL FRAMPTON WILL bid to become a three-weight world champion when he takes on the WBO world super featherweight champion Jamel Herring on February 27 in London, live on BT Sport in the UK.

The special occasion of ‘The Jackal’ bidding to make boxing history will be Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions’ first show of 2021, in association with MTK Global.

The Frampton-Herring showdown was originally scheduled for the middle of 2020 before being delayed due to the Covid-19 outbreak, which led to both taking interim fights, with Herring overcoming Jonathan Oquendo following a disqualification in Las Vegas, while Frampton kept busy defeating Darren Traynor via a seventh round stoppage in London.

Belfast’s favourite son became world champion at super bantamweight back in September 2014 when he overwhelmed Kiko Martinez on an emotional night outdoors in the Titanic Quarter.

Two successful defences followed – against Chris Avalos and Alejandro Gonzalez – before the now 33-year-old unified his IBF belt with Scott Quigg’s WBA title in Manchester, where Frampton clearly prevailed on points.

Then followed two memorable encounters with Leo Santa Cruz up at featherweight, where in the first of which Frampton became a two-weight world champion at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, only to come off second best in the rematch at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Frampton set about a rebuild following his Santa Cruz setback and teamed up with Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren. He was quickly back in the title mix and won the WBO interim world featherweight title with a comprehensive defeat of the decorated Nonito Donaire at the SSE Arena in April 2018.

In August of the same year he got to fulfil a childhood dream of boxing at Belfast’s Windsor Park and his Interim status was maintained with a ninth round stoppage of the Aussie Olympian Luke Jackson.

In December came the huge collision with Josh Warrington, with the Leeds man’s IBF world featherweight title at stake at the Manchester Arena. A barnstorming start put Warrington firmly on the front foot and, despite gamely sticking in there, Frampton was unable to reverse the momentum.

After considering his future, Frampton decided to go again at super featherweight and got back to winning ways with a clear points victory over Tyler McCreary in November of last year in Las Vegas.

Former Marine Herring, 34, carries a record of 21-2 (10 KOs) and he upset the odds in May of last year by defeating the defending WBO world super featherweight champion Masayuki Ito in Kissimmee.

Prior to this his only title action came with a challenge for the vacant USBA title in September 2018, which he won by defeating John Vincent Moralde on points.

Southpaw Herring defended his world title in November 2019 against mandatory challenger Lamont Roach and won comfortably via decision.

Promoter Frank Warren said: “I am thrilled we are able to deliver this huge opportunity for Carl to reinforce his position as the top Irish fighter of his or any other generation.

“Carl has been and is a tremendous ambassador for the sport and his huge following is testament to the qualities he shows in and out of the ring. The only downside to this fight coming about now is that he will be going into battle without his legion of Belfast fans roaring him on.

“For Carl to become a three-weight world champion would really be something else and in many ways a fitting finale to a magnificent career, although it might not quite be the end of the story.

“Herring is a top fighter and a gentleman who we are looking forward to welcoming over for a huge night on BT Sport.”

MTK Global CEO Bob Yalen said: “February 27th promises to be a spectacular night of boxing for all fight fans as the ‘Pride of the Marines’ defends his title against the ‘Pride of Belfast’.

“Carl is bidding to become only the fourth fighter from the UK, and the very first from Northern Ireland, to win World Titles in three weight divisions, and so history beckons him and will drive him in his bid to win that third crown.

“This is an excellent match-up of two outstanding ring technicians and well worth the wait.”

Jamel Herring said: “I’m really excited that the fight is finally happening, more importantly it’ll be an honor to share the ring with a true warrior, and class act such as Carl Frampton. It may be the biggest fight of my career to date, but I’ll be more than ready for the task ahead.

“There’s a lot on the line, and I know he’s aiming to make history, but he’ll have to wait another day, because I plan on returning home with my title in hand. I’ve been training very hard for this fight, and went back to what got me to my world title from sparring the likes of Terence Crawford and other top talent across the nation. I can’t wait to put on a great show!”

Carl Frampton said: “I’m delighted to finally get a date nailed down for this fight that has now been talked about for over a year.

“I have the upmost respect for Jamel as a fighter and as a man but there is nobody stopping me on becoming the island of Irelands only ever 3 weight world champ, one of Britain’s only ever 3 weight world champions and potentially have one foot in the hall of fame.”

————–

To see Carl Frampton’s first interview since his World Title fight was confirmed, click here

NEW YORK – January 12, 2021 – In the long-awaited battle between undefeated rising junior featherweight stars, WBO 122-pound World Champion Angelo Leo meets Stephen “Cool Boy” Fulton Jr., in the main event of the first SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast of 2021 Saturday, January 23 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIME from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The co-main event pits two more undefeated 122-pound boxers against each other as Ra’eese Aleem and Victor Pasillas face off in a 12-round bout for the interim WBA title. The telecast opener features rising prospect Rolando Romero against Justin Pauldo in a 12-round lightweight bout for Romero’s interim WBA title. The combined rng record of the six fighters on the card is a remarkable 96 wins with just one loss.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions.

“We’re rolling straight into 2021 ready to keep creating as many opportunities as we can for our fighters,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “Angelo Leo and Rolando Romero will both be defending their titles for the first time and will be put to yet another test in their respective bouts. Everyone has been working hard and fine-tuning in preparation for January 23, and it’s going to be another great night of boxing filled with very exciting talent to kick off the new year.”

“Leo vs. Fulton is a true 50-50 matchup between two rising stars entering the primes of their careers,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Fulton’s chance at capturing the title was delayed but his opportunity finally comes January 23 on SHOWTIME. Leo worked incredibly hard to capture the world championship in August and will come prepared and determined to defend it successfully.

“The super bantamweight division will have a clear world title contender emerge from the co-main event, a battle of unbeatens between Aleem and Pasillas. Add in the opening bout of ‘Rolly’ Romero vs. Justin Pauldo, a fight that can launch a prospect into a contender, and we have an excellent fight card to kick off the year.”

Leo (20-0, 9 KOs), who fights out of the Mayweather Promotions stable, became the first world champion from his hometown of Albuquerque, N.M., since legendary three-division champion Johnny Tapia when he defeated Tramaine Williams by unanimous decision in August. The 26-year-old was originally scheduled to face Fulton for the vacant WBO junior featherweight world title that evening in the first SHOWTIME boxing event following the pandemic shutdown of the sport, but Fulton was forced to withdraw following a positive COVID-19 test.

“It’s been a crazy year for everyone but to say I walked out of 2020 a world champion is truly incredible and humbling,” said Leo. “I spent 16 years training for that moment to become a champion, and here I am, preparing for my next camp for my first defense top of 2021. That’s a blessing, and I thank Mayweather Promotions and my team for that. My experiences with Floyd last camp going to really put me in a great position going into this fight.

“My father Miguel has been instrumental in keeping me grounded and reminding me that all of these fighters are eyeing my spot. My goal in 2021 is to remain champion and get more belts and Fulton is that next test.”

Born and raised in West Philadelphia, Pa. Fulton (18-0, 8 KOs) has faced impressive competition in his young career while rising up the 122-pound ranks, where he is currently rated No. 1 by the WBO. In his last 12 professional fights, the 26-year-old has beaten seven unbeaten fighters, including Josh Greer, Adam Lopez and Luis Saul Rosario. Fulton’s two most recent wins are a knockout over Isaac Avelar in August 2019 before most recently scoring a dominant 12-round unanimous decision victory over Arnold Khegai in January.

“Training is going great,” said Fulton. “I feel like everything happens for a reason because I’m 10 times more ready now than I was the first time around. I’m excited to fight for the title and I expect nothing but Angelo Leo to be himself and fight his fight on January 23.”

Ranked in the top-10 by the WBA and IBF at 122 pounds, Aleem (17-0, 11 KOs) can take a big step closer to a world title shot when he faces fellow unbeaten Pasillas for the interim WBA strap on January 23. Raised in Michigan and training out of Las Vegas, Nev., Aleem, 30, has stopped his past six opponents inside the distance as he continues to step up his competition.

“This is a high-stakes fight and the winner will get a guaranteed world title fight,” said Aleem. “It’s going to be a good fight, but I am at the top of the heap. I knew I belonged at the top a long time ago and after my last fight that was proven. Winning this fight makes me the number-one contender, and the only thing left after this is to win the world title.”

Pasillas (15-0, 8 KOs), who hails from East Los Angeles, is fresh off a dominating sixth-round knockout over then-unbeaten Ranfis Javier Encarnacion in September 2020 which launched him into the WBA’s top-10 rankings. Like Aleem, the 28-year-old Pasillas also carries significant power. He has stopped his four most recent foes including a first-round knockout of Ernesto Guerrero.

“I’ve envisioned being in this position since I first stepped into a boxing gym at age eight and now it’s time to seize the moment,” said Pasillas. “I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity and show the world, and everyone watching on SHOWTIME, that I belong on the big stage with the elite fighters at super bantamweight. Aleem is a good fighter, but he won’t be able to hang with me. I’m going to punish him until I knock him out. East L.A. in the house, let’s go!”

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nev., Romero (12-0, 10 KOs) returns to SHOWTIME following his controversial unanimous decision victory over Jackson Marinez in August. The 25-year-old captured the interim WBA lightweight title with that win and went the distance for just the second time in his professional career. Fighting under the Mayweather Promotions banner, Romero has been matched tough early in his career with just two losses among his four most recent opponents including the once-defeated Pauldo.

“I’m going to approach this fight like I do any other fight, I don’t feel the need to sell myself,” said Romero. “I’m thankful for my fans who have been with me since day one. I fight for them, because a fan of Rolly is to be an underdog, to be doubted, and that’s all I have ever been. Whether you’re with me on January 23 or against me, I know you will be watching.”

Following an impressive unanimous decision victory over a tough Josec Ruiz in August 2020, Pauldo (14-1, 7 KOs) returns against the stiffest test of his career when he faces blue-chip prospect Romero. Hailing from Orlando, Fla. and training in Houston, Texas, Pauldo, 26, owns a four-inch reach advantage over Romero, who is the third unbeaten foe of his career.

“I’m thankful for this opportunity and I’m excited for all of my years of hard work to pay off on January 23,” said Pauldo. “I was already training and in shape when I got the call for this fight, so I’m going to be 100% on fight night. Romero is a one-gear type of fighter who comes straight forward. I believe that I have the better skills and am the better all-around fighter. This is definitely going to be an interesting fight with contrasting styles, and I can’t wait to show off my skills and bring this title home.”

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer hosts the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handles blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and former junior middleweight world champion Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez. Two Hall of Famers round out the telecast team: boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. The executive producer is four-time Emmy® award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The director is Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy. Alejandro Luna and Felix DeJesus will serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

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

WBA interim Middleweight World Champion and PPV star Chris Eubank Jr. (29-2, 22 KOs) has joined forces with European powerhouse promoter Team Sauerland as the British boxer looks to take over the Middleweight division. 
 
Having previously campaigned at Super Middleweight, Eubank Jr. is a former two-time IBO Super Middleweight World Champion. He captured the IBO crown with a stoppage win over Renold Quinlan in 2017, before defending the belt against German legend Arthur Abraham and Avni Yildirim. Following a blockbuster clash with George Groves, Eubank Jr. reclaimed the IBO Title in 2019 with a spectacular performance against rival James DeGale at the O2 in London. 
 
Returning to the Middleweight division, Eubank Jr. claimed the WBA interim Middleweight World Title for the second time with a TKO win over former World Title challenger Matvey Korobov in December 2019, while making his US debut at the Barclays Center in New York.
 
Currently based in the United States where he is training with the boxing great Roy Jones Jr., the second-generation fighter says he is delighted to have signed a long-term deal with Team Sauerland and is targeting all the top names at 160 lbs.
 
“I’m thrilled to have signed a promotional deal with Team Sauerland,” said Eubank Jr. “I look forward to working with such a historic stable that has created so many legends in the sport over so many years. I look forward to the big fights that I crave. I’ve spent the last 12 months in the gym and I feel better than ever. I’m ready to take over the Middleweight division. I want all the champions – Murata, Charlo, Andrade, Golovkin – put me in the ring with any of them. I only want to fight the best. This is my time. If you have a belt, I’m coming for you.”
 
Having followed Eubank Jr.’s career, promoter Nisse Sauerland says he is delighted to have secured his signature and is looking forward to forging a successful relationship with the charismatic boxer.
 
“We’ve been long time admirers of Chris. He fought on one of our shows back in 2012 and we’ve followed his career closely since then,” said Sauerland. “He’s got all the attributes needed to establish his position as one of the biggest names in world boxing. Our first priority is cleaning out the Middleweight division.”

NEW YORK (January 8, 2021)–In 2020, Split-T Management continued to reign supreme as the top management company in boxing.

With nearly 70 top fighters under contract, the New York based outfit headed by David McWater, continued to produce the best fighters in the sport culminating in the undisputed Lightweight World Champion Teofimo Lopez winning both The Ring Magazine and The Athletic’s 2020 Fighter of the Year award.

While 2020 saw only 13% of the total number of fights it had seen in 2019, Split-T outperformed the industry in featuring its fighters in 40% of the bouts it had participated in the year prior. Split-T Management fighters amassed a record of 44-6-1, winning four world titles and four more regional titles, with fights televised or streamed on all of the major boxing platforms such as ESPN/ESPN+, SHOWTIME, DAZN, NBC Sports and FOX.

Lopez (16-0, 12 KOs) scored the sport’s biggest win of the year when he won a unanimous decision over top Pound-For-Pound fighter Vasiliy Lomachenko on October 17th in Las Vegas. With the win, Lopez captured the WBO, WBA and WBC Franchise titles to go along with his IBF championship.

It was a brilliant performance from Lopez, who outboxed what many believed was the top talent in the sport. The win, which amassed over 4 million viewers on ESPN, took Lopez from being a star to superstardom, and will look to compete in the biggest events as the calendar turns to 2021.

Less than a month later, Kali Reis captured the WBA Junior Welterweight championship under the guidance of Split-T’s Brian Cohen, earning a 10-round unanimous decision over Kandi Wyatt in Saint Petersburg, Florida. In capturing this title, Reis joined middleweight Raquel Miller as well as fellow junior welterweight world champions Mary McGee and Christina Linardatou as current female World Champions under Brian Cohen and the Split-T Banner,

Former IBF Junior Welterweight Champion Ivan Baranchyk earned The Ring Magazine and The Athletic’s 2020 Fight of the Year. Baranchyk’s October 3rd eight-knockdown thriller with Jose Zepeda was broadcasted on ESPN+ had fans in awe in one of the brutal and exciting fights in recent memory. Baranchyk displayed both the renowned heart and tenacity that has made him beloved by fans.

2020 was a year in which many of Split-T’s top prospects made the transition to bonafide World Title contenders.

At the head of that list is 23-year-old super welterweight Charles Conwell. Conwell (14-0, 11 KOs), a 2016 United States Olympian, registered three big wins in 2020. Two of those were stoppages over undefeated opponents (Wendy Toussaint and Madiyar Ashkeyev) in fights that were showcased on SHOWTIME and NBC Sports respectively. Conwell, the USBA and WBC USNBC Welterweight Champion, is ranked #8 by the IBF and has put the entire division on notice with his thudding power and brick wall-like defense.

Split-T’s lead Agent Tim VanNewhouse roster of clients continued their growth and embarked on an impressive 12 fight win streak, highlighted by the continued ascendance of highly rated contender Abraham Nova, who is knocking at the door for a World title shot in 2021.

Nova is ranked as the #4 Super Featherweight with the WBA and #7 with the WBO. In 2020, Nova went 2-0 with wins over Pedro Navaratte and Avery Sparrow each on ESPN+.

Brian Ceballo also emerged as a rising contender in the welterweight division. Ceballo of New York City was very impressive in his only outing of the year when he won a 10-round unanimous decision over the tough Larry Gomez to win the WBO Intercontinental Title and raise his perfect record to 12-0 with six knockouts.

Middleweight teenager Diego Pacheco continues his rise and reaches 10-0 with 8 Ko’s. Pacheco went 2-0 with wins over Oscar Riojas and Juan Mendez each broadcasted on DAZN.

VanNewhouse’s streak doesn’t end there. He’s racked up big hits this year with the debuts of many of his recent signees from the 2020 Olympic Class – David Navarro, Javier Martinez, Omar Rosario, Marques Valle, Kahshad Elliott & Asa Stevens; complimenting Split-T’s deep commitment and support to the amateur program.

This year also witnessed the debuts of amateur standouts Haven Brady Jr and Morris Young Jr. Brady was featured twice on ESPN+ telecasts, recording knockouts in both bouts while still only 18 years old.

2020 also marked the continued ascent of major prospects in heavyweights Stephan Shaw and Sonny Conto, super-middle Isaiah Steen, middleweight Tyler Howard, and junior lightweight Otha Jones III. Rounding out this pack of prospects is welterweight Janelson Bocachica who improved to 16-0 (11Ko’s).

Bocachica’s year was highlighted by his sensational stoppage win over recently undefeated Nick Flauz (9-1). The fight was aired live on Showtime apart of it’s ShoBox series.

2021 looks to be the year that fighters such as Christopher Pearson, Ray Robinson and Willie Monroe Jr. inch closer to world title shots and bigger fight opportunities for Ievgen Khytrov, Ivan Golub, Erick DeLeon and many others on the Split-T roster.

A Split-T Management fighter was involved in boxing’s “Feel Good Story of The Year”.

Super Middleweight and Toledo Firefighter DeAndre Ware was moments away from weighing-in for his September 5 bout with Stephen Nelson, when Top Rank’s event coordinator Pete Susens suddenly collapsed. Eyewitnesses painted a bleak picture as to Susens’ condition. That’s when Ware jumped into action by performing chest compressions and revived Susens.

McWater, who was recently nominated for the prestigious BWAA Cus D’Amato Manager of the Year Award, continues to build a diverse, talented team, combined with decades of experience in the fight game. 2020 saw the valuable addition of multiple new members to the Split-T team.

Ron Rizzo, who has worked in multiple capacities across the sport for over two decades, most recently as VP of DiBella Entertainment and Producer for the long-running Broadway Boxing series and as a director for the New State Athletic Commission prior to that, joined Split-T as their Chief Operations Officer in February. Split-T also added prominent female boxing manager Brian Cohen and Brendan Segalas as associates to the firm. Cohen is one of the most respected figures in women’s boxing, having guided an astounding thirty female fighters to World Championships. Segalas has an investment background and a Masters Degree in Sports Business Management from New York University. In September, he brought in his first client, highly touted Greek middleweight Andreas Katzourakis. Segalas recently passed the Major League Baseball Player Agent certification exam along with CEO David McWater and they will work to expand and build on Split-T’s baseball division.

In addition, with the increasing importance of social media in the sports industry, Split-T brought on Ryan Rechten to serve as the company’s Social Media Manager to help it’s clients engage with existing fans, new audiences and develop influencer opportunities outside of the ring. Additionally, Rechten brought in his first client to the company Willie Monroe.

This dynamic group of industry professionals will fulfill Split-T’s initiatives across the sport for many years to come.

2020 was not the most ideal year, but with the calendar flipping to 2021, Split-T Management will continue to grow into the powerhouse and premier management company in the sport.

Split-T’s staff concludes 2020 with the following members.

David McWater, CEO, Ron Rizzo – Chief Operating Officer, Joe Quiambao, Director of Operations, Tim VanNewhouse – Agent, Brian Cohen – Associate, Brendan Segalas – Associate, Ryan Rechten -Social Media Mgr., Otha Jones USA Scouting Dir., David Berlin Legal Counsel and Marc Abrams – Publicity Director

Las Vegas – UFC^® kicks off its third run on UFC FIGHT ISLAND with two pivotal main event clashes guaranteed to deliver action. First, two of the best featherweights on the planet face off, as former champion and No. 1 ranked contender Max Holloway looks to earn another shot at the title by taking out No. 6 Calvin Kattar. Next, top welterweight contenders collide looking to break into the top 5 as No. 8 ranked Michael Chiesa meets No. 9 Neil Magny.    

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT on ESPN+: HOLLOWAY vs. KATTAR will take place Saturday, January 16 on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. For the first time ever, the main card will be televised live on ABC and simulcast on ESPN+ and ESPN Deportes (Spanish), beginning at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick things off at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT, exclusively on ESPN+.

Holloway (21-6, fighting out of Waianae, Hawaii) intends to start the New Year by delivering another vintage performance and returning to the winner’s circle. Arguably the greatest featherweight in UFC history, he owns the division’s records for most stoppage victories, most wins and the longest win streak. During his reign as champion, Holloway defeated Jose Aldo, Brian Ortega and Frankie Edgar in dominant fashion. He now aims to cement himself as the clear No. 1 contender by becoming the first person to stop Kattar in the UFC.

Fan favorite Kattar (22-4, fighting out of Methuen, Mass.) looks to step up and impress in the biggest fight of his career and inject himself into the title conversation. An exciting and dangerous striker, Kattar rose through the featherweight ranks with memorable knockouts over Shane Burgos, Ricardo Lamas and Jeremy Stephens. He now looks to stay undefeated on UFC FIGHT ISLAND and prove that he is one of the best in the world against his first former champion.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Welterweight veterans finally meet as former interim champion Carlos Condit (31-13, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) faces off with Matt Brown (24-17, fighting out of Denver, Colo.)
• Welterweight standout Santiago Ponzinibbio (28-3, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) returns to action for the first time in over two years when he takes on the durable Li Jingliang (17-6, fighting out of Beijing, China)
• 2020 breakout star Joaquin Buckley (12-3, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) intends to keep his momentum going when he battles Alessio Di Chirico (12-5, fighting out of Rome, Italy) at middleweight
• Undefeated Dana White’s Contender Seriesveterans lock horns as Punahele Soriano (6-0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) faces Dusko Todorovic (10-0, fighting out of Belgrade, Serbia) in a middleweight contest
• Rising women’s bantamweight prospect Wu Yanan (10-3, fighting out of Xi’an, China) looks to deliver her most impressive performance yet against newcomer Joselyne Edwards (9-2, fighting out of Panama City, Panama)
• Dana White’s Contender Series standout Phil Hawes (9-2, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) seeks to hand Nassourdine Imavov (9-2, fighting out of Paris, France) his first UFC loss
• No. 13 ranked middleweight Omari Akhmedov (20-5-1, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) plans to defend his place in the rankings when he battles Tom Breese (12-2, fighting out of Birmingham, England)
• Heavyweights Carlos Felipe (9-1, fighting out of Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil) and Justin Tafa (4-1, fighting out of Brisbane, Australia) intend to steal the show
• Featherweight grapplers go to war as Nik Lentz (30-11-2, 1 NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) and Mike Grundy (12-2, fighting out of Wigan, Greater Manchester, England) look to bounce back into the win column
• Jacob Kilburn (8-3, fighting out of Woodlawn, Tenn.) and Austin Lingo (7-1, fighting out of Mesquite, Texas) battle to secure their first UFC wins in a featherweight bout
• Women’s bantamweight veteran Sarah Moras (6-7, fighting out of Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada) intends to stop Vanessa Melo (10-8, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) from achieving her first UFC victory
• David Zawada (17-5, fighting out of Düsseldorf, Germany) and Ramazan Emeev (19-4, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) clash in an exciting welterweight bout

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT on ESPN+: CHIESA vs. MAGNY will take place Wednesday, January 20 on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. All bouts will air live on ESPN, ESPN Desportes and ESPN+ in the U.S. with the main card beginning at 12 p.m. ET/9 a.m. PT and the prelims starting at 9 a.m. ET/6 a.m. PT.

Chiesa (17-4, fighting out of Spokane Valley, Wash.) has his sights set on continuing his ascent up the welterweight ranks by taking out one of the division’s toughest competitors. The winner of The Ultimate Fighter season 15, Chiesa established himself as one of the best lightweights in the world with victories over Beneil Dariush and Jim Miller before moving up to welterweight in 2018. Since the move, Chiesa has gone undefeated with wins over Rafael Dos Anjos, Diego Sanchez and Carlos Condit. He now looks to make it four in a row and stake his claim for a spot in the top 5. 

A member of the UFC roster since 2013, Magny (24-8, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) has faced the who’s who of the welterweight division. Among the most active athletes on the roster with a record-tying five wins in a calendar year in 2014, Magny’s resume includes victories over former UFC champions Robbie Lawler, Johny Hendricks and Carlos Condit. He now seeks to begin the New Year with a major win and work his way towards his first UFC title shot.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 3 winner Warlley Alves (13-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) matches up with Mounir Lazzez (10-1, fighting out of Dubai, United Arab Emirates)
• Featherweight standout Lerone Murphy (9-0-1, fighting out of Manchester, England) plans to stay undefeated when he takes on durable veteran Douglas Silva (26-3, 1 NC, fighting out of Castanhal, Para, Brazil)
• Ike Villanueva (16-11, fighting out of Katy, Texas) faces Dana White’s Contender Series: Brazil veteran Vinicius Moreira (9-4, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) at light heavyweight
• In a middleweight bout guaranteed to deliver action, Dalcha Lungiambula (10-2, fighting out of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa) takes on submission artist Markus Perez (12-4, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil)
• No. 8 ranked women’s flyweight contender Roxanne Modafferi (25-18, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) meets No. 9 Viviane Araujo (9-2, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) in a battle to break into the top 5
• In a contest of flyweight prospects, Su Mudaerji (13-4, fighting out of Chengdu, Sichuan, China) aims to stop Zarrukh Adashev (3-2, fighting out of New York, N.Y. by way of Samarkand, Uzbekistan) from earning his first UFC win
• Francisco Figueiredo (11-3-1, fighting out of Belem, Para, Brazil), brother of UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo, intends to make a statement in his debut against Dana White’s Contender Series veteran Jerome Rivera (10-3, fighting out of Santa Fe, N.M.) at flyweight
• Lightweight Mike Davis (8-2, fighting out of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) looks to spoil the highly anticipated debut of Mason Jones (10-0, fighting out of Blaenavon, Wales)
• In an exciting matchup of top 15 flyweights, No. 9 ranked Matt Schnell (14-5, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) meets No. 13 Tyson Nam (20-11-1, fighting out of Wahiawa, Hawaii)
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee Victoria Leonardo (8-2, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) and Manon Fiorot (5-1, fighting out of Nice, France) battle at flyweight

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

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 318 million fans and 126 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 171 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 72 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

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 11.5 million subscribers.

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported).

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.

HARTFORD (January 7, 2021) – Last month, hours after receiving the disappointing news that his first fight in 14 months had been scraped, unbeaten East Hartford (CT) super lightweight prospect “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams (15-0-1, 7 KOs) received word that instead of fighting in relatively obscurity in Cancun, he would be making his ShoBox: The New Generation” debut, January 20th at nearby Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

Williams, 22, will headline against undefeated Colombian knockout artist Yeis Gabriel “El Tigre” Solano (15-0, 10 KOs) in the 10-round main event on SHOWTIME, airing live at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m., to kick off ShoBox’s 20th season. Mohegan Sun is only a 45-minute drive from Williams’ home, but his fan-base won’t be there rooting him on, unfortunately, because COVID-19 restrictions ban attendees.

ShoBox is renowned for building future world champions, 83 to date and counting, including Andre Ward, Errol Spence, Jr., Nonito Donaire, Deontay Wilder, and Williams’ fellow Nutmeg State fighter, Chad Dawson.

“I was upset to learn a week before my fight in Cancun that it was canceled,” Williams explained. “I’ve been out of the ring for a while. I had trained hard and was in the zone. But the same day I found out that my fight in Cancun had been canceled, I learned that I’d be fighting on ShoBox at Mohegan Sun. It was a curse and blessing. The opportunity to fight on ShoBox only a few weeks later, on a bigger and better platform, is a great opportunity for me.

“At least I don’t have to travel now and my opponent’s coming in, I believe, from California where he’s training. Fighting on ShoBox completely elevates my exposure. I have a chance to show the nation, if not the world, who I am and how good a fighter I am. I’ll be showcasing my skills on a great platform. It just came about. I think I’m the B side fighter, but that doesn’t bother me.”

Williams’ head trainer since he was an amateur and throughout his 4 1/2-year pro career is Paul Cichon. “This is like a blessing in disguise,” Cichon commented. “We went from losing the fight in Cancun and to Mykey now fighting in the main event on ShoBox, It’s great for Mykey and our team. This change is perfect for us. If Mykey performs like he think he will, doors will open-up for him once the gates open for boxing, after he beats this kid who has a good record. This is the right time!”

The 28-year-old Solano is a southpaw who is a former World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedebol lightweight champion. He’s fought only once outside of Columbia or Mexico, back on September 6, 2019 in his most recent action, when he won an 8-round split decision against 20-1 Elias Damien Araujo in Iowa. Solano’s other 14 opponents had an accumulative record of 67-227-12.

“Mykey has fought better opponents,” Cichon noted. “Solano is a strong southpaw with a 15-0 record and 10 knockouts. We expect him to come out blazing. I don’t think he’s fought anybody of Mykey’s caliber. Mykey has been moved much better.”

“I don’t know too much about him other than he’s a lefty and coming up in weight,” Williams added “They wanted to fight at 135 and agreed to fight at 138. I don’t have any issues fighting southpaws. I’ve fought five left-handers.”

Williams had been frustrated but he became more patient in terms of being unable to fight during the pandemic. Because he turned pro at 18, he’s had 16 pro fights to date, and he’s still only 22, and experiencing a lost year doesn’t adversely affect him as much as older fighters.

“I’m still young and don’t think about running out of time,” Williams concluded. “There’s nothing we could have done differently during the pandemic.

Williams is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and managed by veteran Jackie Kallen.

“I am thrilled that Showtime is giving Mykquan this opportunity to show the boxing world what he can do,” Kallen remarked. “This is his coming out party and I think he’ll now begin to make some serious noise in the 140-pound weight class. This is an important step on his journey toward a world title. I’m very excited and proud of him.”

If you believe in things happen for a reason, Mykquan Williams could very well be “Marvelous” on Jan. 20th, and his already bright career will be even more illuminated.

INFORMATION:
Facebook: /MykquanWilliams
Twitter: @MarvelousMyke
Instagram: @M.MKW_

LAS VEGAS (January 6, 2021) — The 2021 Fight of the Year race has officially started, as Miguel Berchelt and Oscar Valdez will face off in one of the most anticipated all-Mexican fistic showdowns in years.

Cancun’s Berchelt will defend his WBC super featherweight world title against Nogales native Valdez in a special Top Rank on ESPN telecast Saturday, Feb. 20.

The 10-round super featherweight co-feature will see rising 20-year-old Gabriel Flores Jr. against former world champion Andrew “El Chango” Cancio.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, Berchelt-Valdez and Flores-Cancio will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

“Miguel Berchelt and Oscar Valdez are two proud Mexican warriors who will give boxing fans a memorable fight,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Top Rank promoted all three bouts between Marco Antonio Barrera and Erik Morales, and I view Berchelt-Valdez as this generation’s Barrera-Morales.”

Berchelt (38-1, 34 KOs) has held the WBC super featherweight title since January 2017, when he knocked out Francisco Vargas in the 11^th round. His last five title defenses have ended via the quick route, including a ninth-round TKO over Miguel Roman, a sixth-round TKO over Vargas in their May 2019 rematch, and a fourth-round knockout over former world champion Jason Sosa. He fought last June in a non-title bout and knocked out Eleazar Valenzuela in six one-sided rounds.

“This fight is the one that I dreamed of since we were both amateur fighters,” Berchelt said. “Valdez is a great fighter, and it will be a great fight. I am preparing with everything to win by knockout and leave no doubt that I am the best super featherweight in the world.”

Valdez (28-0, 22 KOs) is a two-time Mexican Olympian who vacated the WBO featherweight world title last year after six title defenses, which included scintillating 12-round barnburners against the likes of Scott Quigg, Genesis Servania and Miguel Marriaga. He suffered a severely broken jaw against Quigg in March 2018, returned 11 months later, and has since won four consecutive bouts. Since moving up to 130 pounds, Valdez has scored stoppage wins over Adam Lopez and Jayson Velez.

Valdez said, “Whenever there are two Mexicans in the ring, it is a guaranteed war, and it will be an honor for me to bring a great war to my fans.”

Flores (19-0, 6 KOs), from Stockton, Calif., signed a professional contract with Top Rank at 16 years old and went 3-0 in 2020 as he graduated from prospect to contender. He started the year Feb. 22 on the Deontay Wilder-Tyson Fury II undercard and dominated Matt Conway over eight rounds. Flores shined on a pair of occasions inside the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble, winning decisions over Josec Ruiz and Ryan Kielczweski. Flores now steps up against Cancio (21-5-2, 16 KOs), a fellow Californian who formerly held the WBA super featherweight world title. Cancio knocked out Alberto Machado in February 2019 to win the title and repeated the deed with another knockout over Machado that June. Rene Alvarado ended Cancio’s ascension with a seventh-round knockout in November 2019, and early last year, Cancio inked a promotional contract with Top Rank.

“My main goal is to win a world title,” Flores said. “Dominating a former world champion will put me in a great position to challenge for a title soon.”

Cancio said, “I’m very excited to return to battle on February 20 against Gabriel Flores Jr. I’m working hard in the gym, and I know that this fight is the first on my path to becoming a two-time world champion. I would like to thank my fans, who have been so incredibly supportive. I’ve heard you loud and clear and can’t wait to put on another great show for you.”

Use the hashtag #BercheltValdez to join the conversation on social media. For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing; twitter.com/ESPNRingside.

January 6, 2021 (New York, New York)

Star Boxing is pleased to announce the signing of Danbury Connecticut fan-favorite OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (10-1 3KO’s). At 25-years-old, Bordoy stands at 5’5″ and matches his nickname in the ring, unleashing his inner ‘Beast’ fighting much bigger than his frame would suggest.

Bordoy is no stranger to Star Boxing events, having made his pro debut at Star Boxing’s “Slugfest at the Sun” on the undercard of Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee, Delvin Rodriguez vs Courtney Pennington. Bordoy pitched a shutout, winning by unanimous decision, “Joe DeGuardia gave me my pro debut back in 2017,” said Bordoy, “I never forgot him giving me the chance to begin my career and now giving me the opportunity to further my career.”

Team Bordoy with Star Boxing
CEO Joe DeGuardia
Bordoy would later make an appearance at Star Boxing’s acclaimed “Rockin’ Fights” series at The Paramount in Huntington, New York, where he went to war with Terrell Bostic on the undercard of Long Island’s former World Champion, and “Rockin’ Fights” alum, Chris Algieri vs Angel Hernandez. Bordoy would drop Bostic in the third-round of the scheduled six-round fight, which proved to be the difference earning the decision in a thrilling fight.

Bordoy had this to say about signing with NY Hall of Fame promoter, Joe DeGuardia, “I couldn’t be more excited to sign a contract with Star Boxing. I’ve always been an underdog and I come from nothing, so I’m looking forward to showing the world that from nothing you can become something. The confidence Star Boxing is showing me only makes me hungrier and I look forward to having an explosive year in 2021.”

Trainer and Manager, AJ GALANTE echoed Bordoy’s sentiment, “Star Boxing consistently puts their fighters in positions to be successful. I look forward to continuing to help further guide Omar’s career, and with Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing in our corner, the sky is the limit.”

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA stated, “Omar’s development from his pro debut at Mohegan Sun, to his electric victory at The Paramount has been impressive. I believe together with his team, we can continue to develop Omar, and get him the opportunities he needs to make real noise in the super lightweight division. We are happy to welcome him to Star Boxing.”

NEW YORK (January 5, 2021)–This past Saturday, bantamweight prospect Asa Stevens was successful in his pro debut as he pounded out a four-round unanimous decision over veteran Francisco Bonilla at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

Stevens, who is managed by Split-T Management under the guidance of Tim VanNewhouse, was impressive as he showed off the boxing skills that catapulted him to become a National Golden Gloves champion and World Amateur champion.

It shows that type of aspirations that Stevens has, as he took on a 17-fight veteran in Bonilla, who himself, has quality wins on his ledger.

Stevens of Waianae, Hawaii won by scores of 39-37 on all scorecards to open up his career at 1-0. Bonilla of Chihuahua, Mexico is 6-9-3.

“The fight was a good fight. I fought a 17- fight veteran, and he was tough. This was my 1st fight in over a year. I boxed well. I made him miss and made him pay. It was a good experience. We are only going to excel from here,” said Stevens.

Stevens is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of undefeated IBF #1, WBO #13 and Ring Magazine #8 welterweight contender Kudratillo “The Punisher” Abdukakhorov to an exclusive, multi-year promotional contract.

Originally from Uzbekistan, but currently training at the Elite Pro Boxing Gym in Santa Fe Springs, California, under trainer Armando Valenzuela, Abdukakhorov (17-0, 9 KOs) has already held the WBC Silver welterweight Championship and is now the IBF mandatory for unified champion Errol Spence Jr.

Abdukakhorov was a four-time national Uzbekistani champion as an amateur, finishing with an impressive record of 170-10. The 27-year-old was originally signed with Bob Arum’s Top Rank and had his first two fights in the US under their banner. In March 2019, he took a unanimous decision over former world title challenger Keita Obara. And then in October 2019, Abdukakhorov became the IBF’s #1 by winning a clear-cut 10-round technical decision over former world champion Luis Collazo.

Abdukakhorov was scheduled to face Russia’s Sergey Lipinets for the interim world championship last year, but the fight never materialized because of visa difficulties and the ongoing pandemic. Citing diverging business concerns, Abdukakhorov and Top Rank amicably parted ways recently.

“I’m every excited to sign with Sampson Lewkowicz and Sampson Boxing,” said Abdukakhorov. “I’ve been the mandatory for Errol Spence for the past 19 months. I want to fight the best and working with Sampson and the PBC, I will get the shots I’ve been waiting for.”

Abdukakhorov’s Malaysia-based manager, Vikram Swapragasam, says the move to Sampson will open new doors for his young fighter.

“Sampson can provide us more opportunities to have more fights and work with the PBC,” he said. “That’s where all the welterweight champs are. I’ve known Sampson for years and he has a great reputation. He keeps his word.”

Lewkowicz says the plan is to give Abdukakhorov one keep-busy fight around March and, after that, face Spence or fight for the interim championship if Spence declines the bout.

“There will be many opportunities for this future champion from Uzbekistan,” said Lewkowicz. “His manager, Vikram, and I share the vision to let him shake of the rust for one fight and then we will be looking to finally put him in his dream fight. A shot at a world championship. He’s a very skilled and strong fighter with the potential to become a star in one of boxing’s deepest divisions.”
About Sampson Boxing

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 1, 2021) – Undefeated 17-year-old rising star, DJ “War Machine” Zamora lll (3-0, 2 KOs) spent the past month in training camp with WBC Silver Lightweight Champion, Ryan Garcia (20-0, 17 KOs), as Garcia’s preps for his biggest test when he faces Olympic Gold medalist Luke Campbell (20-3, 16 KOs), on January 2, 2021.

“It was an honor to be in camp with Ryan Garcia,” said Zamora III. “Ryan is fast, explosive and his power is the real deal. Out of all the fighters I’ve sparred he ranks at the top when it comes to speed and power. Eddie Reynoso is doing a great job with Ryan. I learned a lot being in camp with them. Ryan was very helpful in and out the ring, teaching me tricks and trades of the fight game at the higher level.”

Zamora III gave his thoughts on what he expects Ryan Garcia will do to Luke Campbell when they meet this Saturday night, live on DAZN.

“In my opinion, I think Ryan Garcia is going to knockout Luke Campbell within eight rounds,” continued Zamora. “I believe Ryan will break him down in the early rounds, then he will stop Campbell with a body shot.”

Going into 2021, Zamora III will take a tremendous amount of confidence and momentum with him as he will be making his U.S.A. debut at some point during the year.

“After being in camp with Ryan García, I feel more confident with my skills going into 2021,” Zamora concluded. “I now know what it’s like to be in the ring with one of the best in the world, and have learned what I need to do, to be one of the very best myself. This type of experience is going to take my boxing to the next level. This is going to be my year, and I’ll looking to be extremely active once I turn eighteen and make my U.S.A. debut.”

DALLAS, TEXAS (Dec. 31, 2020): Ryan Garcia (20-0, 17 KOs) and Luke Campbell (20-3, 16 KOs) hosted their final press conference today in Dallas, Texas ahead of their 12-round showdown for the interim WBC Lightweight Championship. They were joined by undercard fighters from the event including world champions Rene Alvarado (32-8, 21 KOs) and Felix Alvarado (35-2, 30 KOs) and many others.

The fight will take place on Jan. 2, 2021 at American Airlines Center in Dallas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico and the UK.

Below is what today’s main event participants had to say at the press conference:

RYAN GARCIA, WBC SILVER LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION:

“I wanted this fight after Francisco Fonseca. When it was offered to me for the interim title, I thought that my dream was finally coming true. I’ve always said he is a good fighter. I never said he wasn’t a good fighter. But I just know that with my skills and my training, I will be victorious.”

“My fights haven’t gone long because I don’t let them. If it happens to go that way, then I’m ready for 12 rounds. If he’s tough and he can take a shot, then I’m ready for that. They can say all they want about me not being able to go 12 rounds. I’ve trained to go 1000 rounds. I expect this to be a great fight. I expect this to be a great war.”

LUKE CAMPBELL, FORMER WORLD TITLE CHALLENGER:

“I’m confident because I want to prove that I am the best in the division. From what I have seen, he is good. He is fast. He’s got good skills. But I believe in myself. My strategy is to win by any means possible, and I’m going to be the best version of myself.”

“Tune in Saturday night. I’ve come to fight. This is going to be a fantastic fight. We are two of the best lightweights in the world, and it will be a fantastic battle.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY:

“I see what I’ve always seen in Ryan: an incredibly gifted, wildly charismatic fighter who never takes his foot of the gas in training or in the ring on fight night. I also see a fighter with an incredible appreciation of and admiration for the sport. When he’s not fighting or training, he’s watching film or going to other fights. The kid eats, sleeps and breaths boxing. At the same time, at a really young age, Ryan has an understanding of marketing that only a handful of fighters ever truly achieve.”

“We live in an era when fans can feel closer to their heroes than ever before through the development of social media. Ryan engages with those fans and has grown a following that is close to unrivaled in the sport. You put all these things in a package, and what you end up with is a fighter who is primed to crossover and become an international superstar.”

Garcia vs. Campbell is a 12-round fight for the interim WBC Lightweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts,” and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Better Parts, Better Prices…everyday! The fight will take place on Jan. 2, 2021 at American Airlines Center in Dallas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories, including the U.S., Mexico and the UK. Doors for the event open at 1:00 p.m. CST. The first streamed fight begins at 2:00 p.m. CST / 8:00 p.m. GMT. Main event: 5:00 p.m. CST / 11:00 p.m. GMT.

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 #GarciaCampbell

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

Having always been too small to compete on even terms with boxing’s giants, Saginaw, Michigan’s Robert Simms says he welcomes the WBC’s new Bridgerweight division (200-224 pounds) and would happily face #1-rated Oscar Rivas or any another world-rated contender for its inaugural belt.

A slick technician with good speed and punching power in the mold of all-time-great Michigan fighter James Toney, Simms (10-3, 3 KOs) has used his surprising athleticism and ring smarts to sit in the pocket and conserve energy, yet seldom get hit flush against full-sized heavyweights. But the 5? 11? Simms, currently ranked the #20 contender in the new weight class, says he’ll be a dangerous handful for anyone under 225 lbs, especially the Montreal-based Colombian Rivas.

“Let’s do it. I would beat him,” said Simms. “He’s just another standard heavyweight, nothing special and he’s really stiff as a fighter. I believe that with my skills I would be able to pick him apart. It’s my dream to win a WBC belt.”

It’s not that Simms didn’t have any success at heavyweight. In June of last year at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, a 227-lb Simms took away the undefeated 0 of local favorite Colby Madison with a clear-cut unanimous decision.

A latecomer to the sport at age 24, Simms says he took fights out of shape and way above his most effective weight class “just to see what he could do.” But having recently gotten engaged, the father of five says he’s re-dedicated himself to the sport. In his most recent ring appearance, in October of last year, Simms looked like a different fighter. Coming in at just 198 lbs., Simms utilized his speed and strong technical skills to score a unanimous decision over fellow Michigander Demetrius Banks.

“The height of a heavyweight never bothered me,” continued Simms. “It was the weight that would wear me down. I’ll have stamina all day long at this lower weight class. There’s nobody in this division with my footwork and skills and accuracy.”

“This is the weight class for Robert Simms,” said his promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “He’s been floating around cruiserweight and heavyweight division all of his career and he’s beaten and come close to beating some very good fighters. I believe Robert has the skills and now the size and strength to be a force in the bridgerweight division.”

About Salita Promotions
Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YouTube Channel for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

Fort Lauderdale, FL (December 29, 2020) -WBA Interim Super Middleweight champion David O. Morrell Jr. beat up Mike Gavronski on his way to a 3rd round stoppage in a scheduled 10-round bout at The Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The fight was the main event of card that was seen live on FOX.

Morrell is promoted by Warriors Boxing Promotions and Ural Promotions.

At the end of round one, Morrell landed a big combination that was punctuated by a straight left that sent Gavronski down to the canvas. Morrell continued to batter Gavronski with some hard uppercuts and straight lefts. Finally in round three, Morrell landed another blasting left uppercut that forced referee Jack Reiss to stop the bout at 2:45.
Morrell, 170 lbs of Minneapolis, MN is 4-0 with three knockouts. Gavronski, 167.4 lbs of Bellevue, WA is 26-4-1.

“The first time I saw a video of David Morrell fighting, he was 17 years old
and competing against the 2 time gold medal winner De La Cruz. Having worked
with 23 worlds champions including Roberto Duran, I knew David was going to
be a great one. He continues to show why he is already capable of competing
with the very best in the world.” Quote from Warriors COO Luis DeCubas, Sr.

Even though the fight took place at 170 lbs., Morrell Jr. will remain the WBA Interim Super Middleweight World champion.

Morrell, who only accepted the fight on December 4th, did not want to pass up an opportunity to headline on a major network. Morell – Gavronski was scheduled as the main event. Morrell and his team had informed event organizers that there was a possibility that the fight would need to take place above the 168-pound limit, as he was not in training camp, and had only three weeks to prepare. A new agreement for an 170-pound bout was consented to by all sides.

Morrell will continue to campaign in the hotly contested super middleweight division, he will look to fight any of the top contenders.

Former Team GB Heavyweight standout Solomon Dacres has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will make his highly anticipated professional debut in early 2021. 

The 6ft 5ins 27-year-old, who is managed by Adam Morallee and Sam Jones of S-JAM Boxing, has been a regular sparring partner of Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua, and shared sparring with Joe Joyce and Daniel Dubois ahead of their November clash. 

In an impressive stint in the amateurs, Birmingham’s Dacres won a gold medal in the 2017 National Championships, before joining the Team GB squad in April 2017 and representing the British Lionhearts in the World Series of Boxing during a three-year spell in Sheffield. 

Trained by Max McCracken alongside former WBA Super-Flyweight World Champion Kal Yafai and newly crowned European Super-Bantamweight Champion Gamal Yafai, ‘The Real Deal’ plans on using his explosive power and strength to make a mark in the thriving domestic Heavyweight scene.

“I turned over with my management team S-JAM Boxing and we were looking at getting a deal with the biggest promoter,” said Dacres. “Matchroom provide the biggest platform and the best networks to perform on and progress on. I’m really looking forward to working with the number one promoter out there. 

“Being on the Team GB squad, I’ve sparred with Anthony Joshua for a number of years. It was regular sparring while he was in camp and I was training in Sheffield. It brought me on massively and improved me as a fighter. We’ve both been progressing over the years. 

“That’s the level I’m looking to get to. I’ve seen the level that a Heavyweight World Champion performs at. With the same hard work and dedication that ‘AJ’ has displayed throughout his career, I’m confident I can reach those levels too. 

“Sky Sports and DAZN viewers can expect to see a very explosive style from me. I’ve got fast hands for a Heavyweight and a lot of strength and power. I’d say that I’ve got a fan friendly style. I’m going to bring excitement.

“Next year I’m looking to settle myself into the professional ranks and get a few fights under my belt. I want to make a statement with some eye-catching performances on Sky Sports and DAZN. The ultimate goal is to become a Heavyweight World Champion.”

“I’m delighted to welcome another Heavyweight signing to the team,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Solomon has all the grounding through his GB podium squad experience and WSB experience and is ready to attack the domestic scene. It has been many years since the Midlands have produced a Heavyweight star and with the hope of crowds returning later in 2021, I expect Solly to be a popular draw as he begins his professional campaign.”

Adam Moralee commented: “All the promoters we spoke to about Sol were aware of his quality from Team GB and he needed no introduction. Sol is now in the hands of the people that have guided the career of one of the best Heavyweights ever to come out of Team GB and we are very excited about the journey ahead with Matchroom.”

You can follow Dacres’ journey on Twitter: @solomonDacres and Instagram: solomondacres

(December 28, 2020) —WBC/IBF light heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev has been forced to postpone his title defense against Adam Deines — scheduled for Jan. 30 at VTB Arena in Moscow, Russia — after being diagnosed with COVID-19.

Beterbiev and Deines were originally scheduled to fight Oct. 23, but Beterbiev suffered a rib injury in training. Information about the rescheduled Beterbiev-Deines showdown will be announced in due course.

Beterbiev (15-0, 15 KOs), the only current world champion with a 100 percent knockout rate, has not fought since his knockout victory over Oleksandr Gvozdyk in October 2019 to unify world titles. 

Chester, PA (December 28, 2020) – Undefeated bantamweight prospect Dylan Price kicks off the New Year in a headlining role as he rematches veteran Samuel Gutierrez in a six-round bout on Saturday, January 16tth at Elevations Event Center (51 9th Street) in Chester, Pa.

The event is promoted by RDR Promotions. RDR Promotions is the only promotion to stage an event during the Covid-19 Shutdown. This will be the 3rd show promoted by RDR Promotions and 2nd during the Covid-19 Restriction Period. RDR ran a successful event on November 7th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

Price of Sicklerville, New Jersey. has a record of 11-0 with eight knockouts, and he took an eight-round unanimous decision over Gutierrez on July 27, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland.

The 22 year-old is a four year professional who is coming off a 2nd round stoppage over Jose Rodriguez on November 7th in Philadelphia.

Gutierrez of Mexico has a record of 16-28-6 with six knockouts.

At 32 years old, Gutierrez has been a pro for for 14 years and has wins over Ruben Montoya (10-0-1), Moises Calleros (20-5-1), Montoya (12-2-1) & Juan Leija (11-1-1). Gutierrez is coming off a loss to undefeated Joahnys Argilagos on October 17th in Miami.

In the six-round co-feature, junior welterweight Shinard Bunch takes on Dieumerci Nzau in a junior welterweight bout.

Bunch of Trenton, NJ, has a record of 10-1 with nine knockouts.

The 21 year-old is a two year pro, who has been very active as he has amassed 11 fights in a 19 month span. Bunch is coming off a 1st round stoppage over Christian Danilo Guido on November 7th in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

Nzau of Silver Spring, Maryland has a record of 11-13 with eight knockouts.

Nzau, 32 years-old is a 12-year professional is coming off a decision loss to Daiyann Butt on November 7th in Philadelphia.

Also in a six-round bout, Nafear Charles (5-0, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a lightweight bout.

In four-round bouts, Tahmir Smalls (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights David Veras Pena (0-3-1) of Annapolis, MD in a welterweight contest.

Jerrod Miner (1-11-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Edgar Joe Cortes (6-6-1) of Vineland, NJ in a bantamweight fight.

More fights will be announced shortly.

A very limited amount of tickets can be purchased for $150 for Stage Seating; $125 for Ringside and $100 for General, and can be purchased at rricereview@yahoo.com or from fighters on the card

All Covid 19 Protocols will be enforced including wearing a Mask at all times and ID is required.

LOS ANGELES (December 23, 2020) – Exciting unbeaten prospect Chávez Barrientes previewed his upcoming matchup against Paul Carroll before their super bantamweight showdown this Saturday, December 26 on FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The FS1 PBC Fight Night telecast begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and precedes the FOX PBC Fight Night broadcast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT which is headlined by unbeaten interim WBA Super Middleweight Champion David O. Morrell Jr. challenging Mike Gavronski in a 12-round duel.

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.

Here is what Barrientes (4-0, 3 KOs) had to say about his upcoming matchup and more:

On his recent training in Las Vegas, with his father and trainer Richard Barrientes:

“There is no place like Las Vegas when it comes to training. I’m constantly sparring top level fighters, because all the best talent in the sport comes to Vegas to train. My dad puts me in with a lot of good world class guys. All my sparring is with some of the best fighters in boxing. Training camp has been fantastic to say the least.”

On his matchup with Paul Carroll:

“We didn’t have much time to do research on Carroll because he was a last minute opponent. After looking at his record it shows that he has a lot of power because he’s knocked out everyone he’s beaten. I’m sure he’s going to want to slug it out so I’m preparing to go to war. I’ll be ready to fire back and counter anything he brings into this fight.”

On making his second televised appearance on FS1:

“Because I’m only 18-years old, I feel like I’m in the best possible position as opposed to other fighters my age. I’m with the best boxing organization, PBC, and fighting on the great FOX Sports networks. I’m going to take more risks in this fight and show the world why I deserve to be fighting on national television. I’m going to be more aggressive in this fight and give the fans something to talk about.”

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES (December 23, 2020) – Super middleweight contenders Marcos “Madman” Hernandez and Alantez Fox will meet in a 10-round showdown headlining FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, December 26 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The telecast begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and features undefeated super bantamweight prospect Chavez Barrientes dueling Paul Carroll in a four or six-round special feature, plus unbeaten Radzhab Butaev faces fellow unbeaten Terry Chatwood in a welterweight fight to kick off the telecast.

FS1 PBC Fight Night precedes the FOX PBC Fight Night broadcast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by unbeaten interim WBA Super Middleweight Champion David O. Morrell Jr. challenging Mike Gavronski in a 12-round duel.

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.

Fighting out of Fresno, California, Hernandez (14-3-1, 3 KOs) has faced excellent competition in his career, battling a litany of tough fellow rising contenders. The 27-year-old Hernandez has twice faced former unified super welterweight champion Jeison Rosario, fighting to a draw in their first meeting before losing the rematch. He most recently lost a decision to Kevin Newman in November 2019, a rematch of a fight Hernandez won in 2017. He has taken down then unbeaten fighters in Newman and Thomas Hill in 2016.

The 28-year-old Fox (26-2-1, 12 KOs) was unbeaten in his first 23 fights, moving his way up the middleweight division until dropping a 2017 battle by decision to unbeaten champion Demetrius Andrade. Fighting out of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, Fox rebounded with three-straight victories before losing in the U.K. to Liam Williams in December 2019. Most recently, Fox debuted at the full super middleweight limit against Habib Ahmed in a fight that was ruled a no-contest in August.

Barrientes (4-0, 3 KOs) and his twin brother and fellow prospect Ángel were born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and moved to Las Vegas when they were two-years-old. Barrientes and his brother were first introduced to the sport by their father Richard at an early age, with their interest and skill eventually prompting him to open his own gym. Barrientes’ U.S. debut came on the same show as his brother in October as he won a decision over Ivan Varela.

The South Carolina-native Carroll (4-1, 4 KOs) enters this fight with three-straight stoppage victories, having most recently won by TKO over Jayvonne O’Neal in February following two knockouts in 2019. Carroll turned pro in June 2017 with a knockout of Shaquille Harris.

A prolific amateur in his native Khasavyurt, Russia, Butaev (12-0, 9 KOs) now fights out of Brooklyn. The 27-year-old turned pro in 2016 and quickly began moving up the rankings, beating veterans Lanardo Tyner and Silverio Ortiz in 2019. Butaev’s last outing saw him drop a close decision for a vacant WBA welterweight title to Alexander Besputin, which was eventually ruled a no contest after Besputin tested positive for performance enhancers.

Chatwood (9-0-1, 5 KOs) added two victories to his ledger in 2019, stopping James Blake Franklin in April before defeating Juan Ocura in August. The Little Rock, Arkansas native returns to action looking to keep his unbeaten record intact since turning pro in 2016. Chatwood has won seven consecutive fights since a split-draw in 2016.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes and @TGBPromotions become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Undefeated WBA Super and Ring Magazine Light-Flyweight World Champion Hiroto Kyoguchi has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. 

The Japanese star (14-0, 9 KOs), who is managed by Eddy Reynoso, won the IBF 105lbs World Title by outpointing Jose Argumendo in July 2017, before making two defences of the Title against Carlos Buitrago and Vince Paras.

27-year-old Kyoguchi was crowned a two-weight World Champion when he stopped Hekkie Budler in ten rounds in December 2018 to earn the WBA and Ring Magazine Light-Flyweight belts, and has since made two successful defences against Tanawat Nakoon and Tetsuya Hisada. 

“I am confident that I will give it my all and show honour in this sport as a proud Japanese World Champion,” said Kyoguchi. “I’m ready!”

“I’m delighted to welcome two division World Champion and Ring Magazine king Hiroto Kyoguchi to the Matchroom Boxing team,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “As we continue our global expansion we welcome our first Japanese World Champion to Matchroom and look forward to our first show there in 2021. I look forward to a long and successful relationship with him and his manager Eddy Reynoso.”

“It is an honour to work with the best promoter in the world in Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing,” said Eddy Reynoso of No Boxing No Life management. “Thanks also to Hiroto Kyoguchi for having the confidence to let me represent him. We look forward to a big future together.”

December 23, 2020–TONIGHT!!! on fubo Sports Network, fights that feature former two-division world champion Ricky Hatton plus recent International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee Andre Ward will be streamed on Classic Fight Night.

The bouts on tonight’s the show will be Hatton’s sensational performance against Jose Luis Castillo in a much anticipated bout that took place on June 23, 2007. Also on the show will be the June 10, 2000 fight between Hatton and Gilbert Quiros.

Ward, who just last week was named to the 2021 International Boxing Hall of Fame class, will have his April 29, 2006 bout against Andy Kolle showcased on the show. The fight was the 9th fight of Ward’s career.

The show begins at 8 PM ET.

About fubo Sports Network
Available on 75 million devices, fubo Sports Network is the live, free-to-consumer TV network featuring sports stories on and off the field. Launched by live TV streaming platform fuboTV (NYSE: FUBO) in September 2019, fubo Sports Network airs live sports, award-winning original programming and partner content from CampusLore, FanDuel, Stadium, The Players Tribune, USA TODAY and VSiN, among others. Stream for free on LG Channels, News on Tubi, Plex, Pluto TV, Samsung TV Plus, The Roku Channel, Vizio Channels and XUMO or as part of fuboTV’s base subscription package of 100+ sports, news and entertainment channels.

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

This Thursday, December 24, at 1:30 pm ET (10:30 am PT), Salita Promotions will livestream a 19-fight afternoon matinee of international boxing on their popular YOUTUBE CHANNEL, free of charge from the Soviet Wings Sport Palace in Moscow, Russia.

The marathon boxing event, presented by Shamo Boxing in association with Salita Promotions, will feature a rugged 10-round battle for the WBA Asia Middleweight Championship between Saint Petersburg southpaw Evgeny Terentyev (16-3-0, 8 KOs) and Ukrainian veteran Viktor Plotnikov (33-9, 15 KOs) in the main-event.

In just his fourth fight, super middleweight prospect Pavel Siliyagin (4-0-0, 2 KOs) from Novosibirsk, Russia, will face 54-fight veteran Siarhei Khamitski (32-19-2, 14 KOs) from Minsk, Belarus, in the co-main event, scheduled for 10 rounds.

WBO #7 and IBF #8 bantamweight Nikolai Potapov (21-2-1, 11 KOs), of Podolsk, Russia, now residing Brooklyn, will return to the ring to take on Ukrainian contender Oleksandr Hryshchuk (16-2-1, 6 KOs) of Bilytske, Ukraine.

Just three fights into his pro career, Ruza, Russia’s undefeated Valery Oganisyan (3-0, 2 KOs) will take on capable Gelendzhik, Russia, veteran Dmitry Mikhaylenko (23-7, 10 KOs) for the Russian Super Lightweight Championship.

And in a special attraction, a definite prospect to watch, 2016 Olympic Gold Medallist Hasanboy Dusmatov (1-0, 1 KO) from Andijan, Uzbekistan, will face Russia’s Mirzamuhammad Mutalibov (1-2) from Novokuznetsk.

“I am honored to bring one of the last fight cards of the year to our worldwide YOUTUBE CHANNEL audience,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. The show is going to showcase world-class fighters from every level of the developmental landscape – from Olympic Gold Medalist Hasanboy to one of the best bantamweights in the world, Nikolai Potapov.”

Calling the action in English for the above five featured fights will be Canada’s Corey Erdman, a commentary veteran for ESPN, NBC, CBS, SpikeTV, BoxNation, DAZN and SNY, as well as UFC Fight Pass’ recurring series Broadway Boxing. Erdman is also a lead columnist for Boxing Scene, and a regular combat sports contributor to VICE.

“I’m excited to be a part of delivering the holiday gift of live boxing to everyone this year,” said Erdman. “It’s great to see Nikolai Potapov back in action, and perhaps becoming a factor in the bantamweight division. Fans who follow amateur boxing are obviously excited to see Hasanboy Dusmatov’s second pro fight as well. With his pedigree, I’m sure it won’t be long before we’re talking about him in the world title picture.”

The livestream is part of Salita Promotions’ ever-expanding YOUTUBE CHANNEL, that already offers thousands of hours of past fights from many of the biggest names in boxing, free of charge, and attracts more than 5 million monthly views with 138,000 subscribers and hundreds of thousands of daily viewers.

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About Salita Promotions
Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YouTube Channel for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

New York, NY (12/22/20) – DiBella Entertainment (DBE) has signed undefeated Mexican American junior lightweight prospect Misael Lopez (11-0, 5 KOs) to an exclusive promotional agreement.

“I first saw Misael fight on one of my ShoBox undercards and was very impressed with how he handled the pressure as the underdog to come out victorious,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “I am friendly with his managers, Jerry Casarez and world champion Jamel Herring, who came to me with this opportunity, and I am happy to work with them and Lyle Green. Lopez is a great young talent with a bright future…and he’s willing to accept real fights to prove it.”

“I’m very blessed for this opportunity,” said Lopez. “I’m excited to work with a great promoter like Lou DiBella and am ready for what’s coming ahead.”

“Jamel Herring and I are thrilled to have our fighter sign with Lou DiBella,” said Jerry Casarez, of First To Fight Management. “Lou is a Hall-of-Fame promoter, who has worked with the biggest names in the sport, so I know the future is very promising for Misael Lopez.”

“We are very excited to have Misael as part of our team,” said Lyle Green, of Sheer Sports. “Misael is outstanding inside the ring and out. He is destined for greatness and we are looking forward to assisting him in his career.”

Lopez burst onto the national boxing stage when he upset unbeaten favorite James Wilkins on SHOWTIME’s “ShoBox” series via unanimous decision, on September 21, 2018, in Shawnee, OK. The versatile boxer-puncher controlled the action of the fast-paced eight-round affair, combating Wilkins’ pressure with a higher volume of punches and deft footwork.

He has since added two more victories to his record. Lopez’s most recent bout, on October 4, 2019, which he won via six-round unanimous decision against Nestor Robledo, was later overturned to a ‘No Contest’ after his post-fight drug test came back positive for marijuana.

“Misael suffered a career setback when his last win was changed to a ‘No Contest’ after he tested positive for weed. I think he’s learned his lesson, but I’m not going to blackball somebody because he smoked a joint,” said DiBella.

Born in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, Lopez moved with his family to the United States at the age of two, growing up in Denver, CO. Seeing his son bullied, Misael’s father, Ebenezer, who had an amateur boxing career and worked as a sparring partner for local, prominent fighters, decided to teach his son how to box so he could defend himself. Developing an affinity for the sweet science, a 10-year-old Lopez had his first amateur bout in 2006. Over the next 10 years, the athletic Lopez excelled at boxing and soccer, participating in high level competitions for both sports. As a boxer, Lopez compiled an amateur record of 50-5, winning gold medals at the 2008 Ringside World Championships, 2010 Colorado State Silver Gloves Tournament, Colorado State Golden Gloves Tournament twice in 2009 and 2015, and the 2015 Gene Lewis Invitational Tournament. Still trained by his father out of House of Pain Boxing Gym, in Aurora, CO, Lopez turned professional on May 21, 2016, and is now co-managed by First To Fight Management and Sheer Sports.

LOS ANGELES (December 22, 2020) – Interim WBA Super Middleweight Champion David O. Morrell Jr. shared insights into his training camp and previewed his upcoming showdown against Mike Gavronski that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, December 26 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

“Training for this fight has gone really well,” said Morrell. “I’ve been training in Minneapolis with my head trainer Sankara Frazier and my second trainer Adonis Frazier. For my last fight, I had no sparring because of all the restrictions with the pandemic. This time around has been different and I have gotten sparring. I’ve had Maidel Sando helping me with sparring and things have been going great in camp.”

The 22-year-old Morrell won his interim title in just his third professional fighter after arriving stateside from Cuba and turning pro in 2019. Morrell won the belt by defeating then unbeaten Lennox Allen via unanimous decision in PBC’s first fight on FOX after the pandemic this August. Despite that experience fighting during the pandemic, Morrell is not relying on it heading into Saturday, while taking lessons from his time in the ring instead.

“I don’t feel like my experience in ‘the bubble’ is an advantage, because I believe that I can adapt to any situation,” said Morrell. “I just want everything to go right once I step into the ring. That’s what I’m focused on.

“Against Allen I learned to control the timing and rhythm of the fight. I also learned to be calmer and more patient in the ring. Now I feel like I can go 12 rounds with anybody and still feel fresh. I think I know when to slow it down, as well as when to pick up the action and turn the heat up. I’m more confident knowing that I can go a full fight.”

Morrell’s rapid rise since turning pro will now see him take center stage as the primetime main event on FOX. Despite the speedy ascent, Morrell doesn’t feel any added pressure from the headlining position.

“I show out whenever it’s a big stage, so there’s no pressure,” said Morrell. “I’m just excited and can’t wait for the fans to see me back in action. I’m like anybody else that wants to be a champion and number one, I’m at my best in front of a big audience.

“Like any other athlete with big ambitions, I just want to prove that I’m the best. I want people to be happy to see me win and I have a strong desire to be the best in the world.”

In Gavronski, Morrell will face another opponent who laps him in pro experience, as the 34-year-old Gavronski has faced a slew of veteran contenders, including former title challenger Jesse Hart. Despite Gavronski having 10 times the number of pro fights as his opponent, Morrell still believes he is the one with more to prove.

“From what I’ve seen of him, Gavronski has fought some good fighters with good qualities,” said Morrell. “I think he’ll come in confident knowing that I’m only 22-years-old and have only three professional fights. But I’ll prove to him, and everyone else doubting me, that I’m here for a reason. He’s going to come to win, but so will I. Whoever’s best will emerge victorious.”

The super middleweight division is stacked with stars such as Canelo Alvarez, Caleb Plant and David Benavidez, giving Morrell no shortage of potential big fights in his future. For Morrell, he plans to continue to improve and be prepared when the opportunity comes to face the division’s best.

“The super middleweight division is one of the best in boxing,” said Morrell. “The titleholders right now deserve their recognition. They’ve become champions for a reason. But I’m going to be ready for them when I’m given the opportunity. It’s my job to be ready when that time comes.”

With a chance to close out the year in style on Saturday, Morrell is relishing in that opportunity and the promise of what 2021 could bring both inside and outside of the ring.

“My first goal is to close out 2020 by making weight on Friday,” said Morrell. “My second goal is to get the win on Saturday in spectacular fashion. In 2021, I’ll be thankful to God to continue waking up every day. I want more fights in 2021 though, so one or two months into the new year, I want to get back in the ring. And then all of the projects that my team and my promoter have lined up, I want us to achieve our dreams. Hopefully I’ll be able to bring the rest of my family that’s back in Cuba to the U.S. and have them here with me for it.”

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ABOUT MORRELL VS. GAVRONSKI
Morrell vs. Gavronski will see Interim WBA Super Middleweight Champion David O. Morrell Jr. face Mike Gavronski in the 12-round main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 26 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature the return of renowned knockout artist James Kirkland dueling hard-hitting Juan Macías Montiel in the 10-round middleweight co-main event while unbeaten young rising star Jesús Ramos battles Naim Nelson in a 10-round super lightweight bout that will kick off the broadcast.

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

LOS ANGELES (December 22, 2020) – Unbeaten rising star Jesús Ramos moved his training camp to Colorado Springs and believes the altitude and quality sparring he received will aid him as he prepares to take on Naim Nelson in FOX PBC Fight Night action and on FOX Deportes this Saturday, December 26 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

“The altitude in Colorado has definitely helped my conditioning,” said the 19-year-old Ramos. “My dad is my head coach, but we’ve also worked with strength and conditioning coach Jamie Belt. At first, it was rough training at this altitude, but I feel more comfortable and much better now.

“Sparring with former champions Maurice Hooker and Robert Brant is great experience for me. Combined with this being my second fight in ‘the bubble’, I’m ready to put on an explosive performance December 26.”

Ramos has continued to look for ways to improve his arsenal as he heads into the matchup against Nelson. Nelson’s most notable opponent is WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario Barrios, and Ramos’ goal is to outdo the performance that Barrios had against Nelson, while also showing off new aspects of his skillset.

“I have a shorter opponent for this fight, so I know I’ll be throwing my jab consistently,” said Ramos. “We’ve also been working on my angles and being more creative with my punches. I’ve only seen a couple of tapes on Nelson, but I know he likes to come forward. I feel strong and ready for whatever he brings.

“Nelson was stopped against Barrios, but I believe it was because of a shoulder injury. I’m looking to give him a loss but with an actual knockout this time. I’m going to perform with my style and make him fight my fight. I’ll take my time, use my jab, and when the time comes, I’ll take advantage and get him out of there.”

In addition to his father and head trainer Jesús Sr., Ramos’ uncle and veteran welterweight contender Abel Ramos has been by his side and providing motivation for Jesús Jr.’s burgeoning career. With seeing what Abel has accomplished, Jesús Jr. knows what it will take to reach his boxing dreams for 2021 and beyond.

“The most important thing I’ve learned from Abel is that anything is possible if I work hard and don’t give up on my dreams,” said Ramos. “I feel like by 21-years-old, I’ll be more than ready to compete for a title. I think I need a couple more tough fights under my belt before I go in there against a champion, but once I get that, I’ll be prepared for a title shot.

“Hopefully 2021 brings a lot more fights so that I can stay active and get those fights to prepare me for a title fight. We want tough fights and I just want to stay dedicated. Even when I’m outside of the ring I’ll be studying and doing whatever I can to get ready for my shot when it comes.”

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ABOUT MORRELL VS. GAVRONSKI
Morrell vs. Gavronski will see Interim WBA Super Middleweight Champion David O. Morrell Jr. face Mike Gavronski in the 12-round main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 26 from Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature the return of renowned knockout artist James Kirkland dueling hard-hitting Juan Macías Montiel in the 10-round middleweight co-main event while unbeaten young rising star Jesús Ramos battles Naim Nelson in a 10-round super lightweight bout that will kick off the broadcast.

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