UNITED, HAMILTON SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT BRADLEY WILCOX AGREE TO MULTI-YEAR CONTRACT

TORONTO — United Boxing Promotions today announced the company has agreed to a multi-year promotional contract with rising Hamilton, Ont. super lightweight Bradley ‘The Truth’ Wilcox (11-0, 6 KO).

“Bradley is one of the best super lightweights in the country and has a large fan base that supports him from Hamilton,” said United Promotions president Tyler Buxton. “He’s a great signing for United, (and) fans can expect Bradley to make big moves this year.”

????  The 29 year-old Wilcox is excited to return to regular action and ready to earn his place at the championship table.

“I look forward to being active again, (and) being with a promoter who can keep me active and has a vision for the future,” said Wilcox. “Tyler and United have had an idea of their future, with the casinos, for a long time and he’s executing on that vision now — it will be nice to be part of that team.”

Fighter File

Born Nov. 17, 1994 (29)…Made his professional debut in June 2017, with a second-round knockout of Arturo Garcia in Niagara Falls…Has stopped both opponents — Chile’s Carlos Diaz and Canadian Larone Whyte — he has faced since returning to the professional ring in 2022…Part of Hamilton’s storied Wilcox boxing family.

About United Boxing Promotions

Featuring the province’s best fighters in world-class venues, Tyler Buxton’s United Boxing Promotions has a two-decade track record of developing elite boxing talent and delivering one of the premier fan experiences in Ontario sport. United’s roster includes four reigning IBO continental champions, a former Olympian and a former WBO World Title Challenger.




FUTURE BOXING SUPERSTAR BEN WHITTAKER RETURNS ON BOXXER ‘BAD BLOOD’ CARD

LONDON, UK (February 15, 2024) – ‘The Surgeon’ is back! Future boxing superstar Ben Whittaker brings his unique style to The O2 in London as the latest addition to BOXXER’s action-packed ‘Bad Blood’ card on Sunday, March 31st, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Whittaker (6-0, 5 KOs) has become a viral sensation with clips of his flamboyant showboating during his stoppage win over Khalid Graidia on February 3rd generating millions of views and global interest on social media.

Tipped for superstardom, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist will look to capitalise on his new-found attention by delivering another show stealing performance following his win over Graidia on the Buatsi-Azeez card in Wembley.

Whittaker will add star power to an already stacked card on Easter Sunday topped by the ‘Bad Blood’ showdown between unbeaten heavyweights Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke for the British and Commonwealth Titles.

Florian Marku and Chris Kongo will settle their simmering welterweight rivalry following an explosive press conference altercation last year, whilst Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic takes on Newcastle’s Steve Robinson and rising super middleweight star Callum Simpson closes in on a British Title shot.

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “The reaction to Ben Whittaker’s performance against Khalid Graidia has been incredible. It shows the power of social media. He gained hundreds of thousands of followers overnight and there’s clips of him online with millions and millions of views. We’ve known from day one that we’ve got a superstar on our hands with Ben Whittaker. With his style and personality, we believe he can become the biggest star in world boxing.”

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and VOW Nutrition.

Tickets, priced from just £30, go on sale today (Thursday, February 15th) from midday. For more details visit: https://www.boxxer.com




CURIEL VS. NONTSHINGA II – FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Frank Smith
 
“Our Mexican series of boxing always brings amazing nights and fights, and Friday will be the same. Thank you to the government here in Oaxaca and everyone involved for making this event possible. 
 
“It’s going to be an amazing night of fights and there’s a massive opportunity for some young fighters on the big stage live on DAZN ahead of the return of Mauricio Lara, who is always in exciting fights and we’re looking forward to the next phase of his career, and then we have the rematch. 
 
“The first time in Monaco, Adrian surprised a lot of people, I don’t think people thought he had the power to do what he did, so Sive is here to change that story. I was in Mexico when Sive won the title and it’s probably the best fight I’ve ever seen in my life, a back and forth 12 rounds. If Sive can recreate that night, and Adrian can do what he did in Monaco, we’re in for something special.”
 
Adrian Curiel – defends his IBF World Light-Flyweight title in rematch against Sivenathi Nontshinga
 
“It’s great to be here and a huge opportunity to defend my title. We have trained as champions, but we will go into the fight with a challenger mentality. It’s great to defend my belt on home soil. It was not a lucky shot or KO. 
 
“I’ve been watching interviews that he’s been giving, and he says that I’m not a big puncher and I’m an easy fighter, but he’ll see on Friday that as we say here, people need to back up what they say. So, we’ll see on Friday if that’s true.”
 
Sivenathi Nontshinga – challenges Adrian Curiel in rematch for the IBF World Light-Flyweight title 
 
“My title looks good on him! It feels great to be here, it’s been a long time coming, I’ve been working so hard, and I will grab this opportunity with both hands. There will be a great atmosphere, I’ve met so many kind people here and I am looking forward to Friday night. 
 
“I’ve trained so hard, it’s not the first time I’ve prepared for a World title fight, I’ve been a champion before, and I promise everybody that once again I will prevail. I believe falling down is part of life, but getting back up is living, so once again, I will become a champion.
 
Mauricio Lara – faces Daniel Lugo over ten rounds at Super-Featherweight
 
“I just took some time out to analyze what was going on in terms of my boxing, and now I am back. I take it all calmly. I have traveled all over the world to fight, but it’s similar in terms of mental focus for this fight and it’s lovely to be Oaxaca, a lovely part of Mexico, and I’m motivated and full of emotion to make sure people go away happy from this fight.”
 
Daniel Lugo – faces Mauricio Lara over ten rounds at Super-Featherweight
 
“We know he is a former champion, we see this as a big opportunity. We came to Oaxaca three weeks ago so that we could adapt and be ready at the optimal conditions on Friday. I’m have the hunger to win and to become known in boxing, we’ve had a really good camp and I feel really, really strong.”
 
Sergio Chirino Sanchez – faces Dennis Contreras over ten rounds at Super-Bantamweight title
 
“I am delighted to be fighting at home, and welcome everybody to Oaxaca. It’s great to be in such a big fight and also on such a great card. It’s an opportunity for all the boxers to shine, for the eyes of the world to be on Oaxaca on Friday night. We’ve been training with the opponent in mind, but we have a lot of experience, so it’s a great opportunity and we’re going to show that we are ready.”
 
Arturo Cardenas – faces Ernesto Garcia over ten rounds for the WBC Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title
 
“It’s a great opportunity for me to be here and I’m happy to be fighting for my first title and on such a big card. We’ve had a great camp, we always do with Robert Garcia and RGBA, we’re always 100 per cent ready for whatever comes our way, and this is a great chance and fight for me, and we feel ready.”
 
Criztec Bazaldua – faces Alejandro Castillo over six rounds at Lightweight
 
“It’s a blessing to come back to my home roots in Mexico and put on a show. Me, Fed and Diego we grew up together and it’s great to see us succeeding, we Just need to keep going and keep putting South Central LA on the map.”
 
Federico Pacheco – faces Joe Mario Tamez over four rounds at Heavyweight
 
“Thank you to Matchroom for giving me another fight on the big stage. Last time it was in Monterrey and I love coming down to Mexico top put on a show. I am ready and very thankful to be here. I am the first fight and Criztec is the second fight, so we are putting LA in the house, and we’ll set the tone for sure.”




Weights from San Jacinto, CA

SAN JACINTO, Calif. (February 14, 2024) – The official weigh-in was held today for tomorrow night’s “Punches and Punchlines card at Soboba Casino Resort in San Jacinto, California.

“Punches and Punchlines,” presented by Toro Promotions, Inc., House of Pain and Black House Boxing, will be the first pro boxing event at Soboba Casino in nearly five years.

Priced at $125.00 (VIP), $85.00 (Premium) and $65.00 (general admission), reserved tickets are available to purchase online at www.soboba.com and at the casino’s box office.

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

Fighters’ weights below:


OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – HEAVYWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS

( L) Tsotne Rogava (4-0, 4 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Ukraine and Georgia 264.6 lbs.

(R) John Shipman (5-5, 2 KOs), Dallas, TX 212.4 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – WELTERWEIGHTS — 6 ROUNDS

Jimmie “El Chingon” Nunez (5-2, 5 KOs), Temecula, CA 145 lbs.

Kenekuk De La Rosa (2-2, 1 KO), Phoenix, AZ 142 lbs.

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS

(L) Nilo Guerrero (7-0, 6 KOs), Coachella, CA by way of Nicaragua 133.3 lbs.

(R) Dan Hernandez (3-4, 2 KOs), Riverside, CA by way of Mexico 136 lbs.

HEAVYWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

Jack “The Outlaw” May (8-0, 7 KOs), Chino Hills, CA 263 lbs.

Bryan Hall (1-2-1, 0 KOs), Fresno, CA 250.3 lbs.

Ian “Captain” Morgan (1-2, 0 KOs), Temecula, CA 232.5 lbs.

Terrance Brown (1-5, 0 KOs), Ethete, WY 192.2 lbs.

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

David Longoria (2-0, 2 KOs), Temecula, CA 170 lbs.

Jason “El Crazy Horse, Lara (pro debut), Boyle Heights, CA 174.2 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS

William King (5-1-1, 2 KOs), Perris, CA 133.7 lbs.

David Reyes (2-1, 1 KO), Fresno, 136.4 CA

(Card Subject to Change)


INFORMATION:

Instagram: @ToroPromotionsInc

Facebook: /ToroPromotionsInc

You Tube: @ToroPromotionsINC

X (formerly Twitter): @ToroPromotions

TikTok: @ToroPromo




Press Conference Notes: O’Shaquie Foster Ready to Defend Junior Lightweight Crown against Abraham Nova

NEW YORK (Feb. 14, 2024) — WBC junior lightweight world champion O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster (21-2, 12 KOs) and Abraham “El Super” Nova (23-1, 16 KOs) are ready to lock horns in the main event of an ESPN-televised tripleheader this Friday, Feb. 16 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. This will be the second title defense for Foster, a native of Orange, Texas, who salvaged his title with a come-from-behind 12th-round knockout over Rocky Hernandez last October.

In the 10-round junior lightweight co-feature, Andres “Savage” Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs) takes on Puerto Rican contender Bryan Chevalier (20-1-1, 16 KOs).

Rising featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (10-0, 6 KOs), the latest fistic prodigy from Brownsville, Brooklyn, will face Filipino-born Bernard Torres (18-1, 8 KOs) in the 10-round televised opener.

Foster-Nova, Cortes-Chevalier and Carrington-Torres will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (5:20 p.m. ET/2:20 p.m. PT) will feature the return of Italian heavyweight Guido Vianello (11-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-rounder against Moses Johnson (11-1-2, 8 KOs), as well as U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (11-0, 5 KOs), who risks his unbeaten record against Paulo Galdino (13-7-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight tilt.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Murphys Boxing and 12 Rounds Promotion, tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster.com.

At Wednesday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

O’Shaquie Foster
 
“The journey has been everything. The ups and downs. Growing as a person. I’ve matured now, mentally and physically. Words can’t explain how I feel, but I’m ready.”
 
“It was crazy {against Rocky Hernandez}. We shocked the world. And I’m here to do it again. Everybody calls me Shock, and we’re going to keep doing it.”
 
“We’ve been calling out Nova for years. He knows it. His excuse was that my name wasn’t big enough. Funny how the tables turn. I’m ready, and I’m familiar with his style.”
 
“I did everything in the gym. We are prepared. Come Friday night, we will dominate and put on a show.”
 
Abraham Nova
 
“Fighting for a world title is a dream come true. I can’t let this opportunity slip by. I’ve wanted this for so long. Now I have this opportunity. So, I’m super excited and super motivated.”
 
“I like to take control of things in my career. It’s the main reason I picked boxing. It’s an individual sport. I can be in control.”
 
“I’ve got to put my trust in God. Everything in the gym has been done. You know what I bring and what I come with. The pressure will be on. The IQ will be on. Everything will be on. I will just have to adjust and come out with the victory.”

Andres Cortes

“I’m really excited to be here. First time here. Let’s get the show started.”

“You can expect another statement from me. You’ll see me taking another step towards a world title.”
 
“I see a world title in my future. I’m here to take care of Bryan first. But maybe one day we can make that fight happen.”
 
Bryan Chevalier

“The ring is the same throughout the world. It’s a square. It’ll just be me, him and the referee. We’re ready to give a great show to boxing fans.
 
“Styles make fights. I prepared to give the best of me. I will accommodate to what he has. He will have to accommodate to what I have. Without a doubt, it will be a war between Mexico and Puerto Rico.”

Bruce Carrington
 
“I love these opportunities to fight at home. Bernard Torres is a southpaw. It’s always interesting to fight against a southpaw. He’s a good fighter. 18-1. Great record. He shows a lot of will and skill. There’s nothing more you can ask for in a opponent.”
 
“He’s a good fighter. But with my experience, confidence, and work ethic, I know that I’ve got a Plan A through Z and even more to take care of Bernard Torres.”
 
Bernard Torres
 
“Growing up in boxing, it’s a dream to fight here. So, I’m happy to box here at Madison Square Garden. I am really happy for this opportunity. I’m very prepared. I had a really great camp. I’m really happy and ready to go.”
 Friday, February 16
 
ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT)
 
O’Shaquie Foster vs. Abraham Nova, 12 rounds, Foster’s WBC junior lightweight world title 
Andres Cortes vs. Bryan Chevalier, 10 rounds, junior lightweight

Bruce Carrington vs. Bernard Torres, 10 rounds, featherweight
 
ESPN+ (5:20 p.m. ET/2:20 p.m. PT)
 
Guido Vianello vs. Moses Johnson, 8 rounds, heavyweight

Isaah Flaherty vs. Julien Baptiste, 6 rounds, middleweight

Ofacio Falcon vs. Edward Ceballos, 6 rounds, junior lightweight 

Tiger Johnson vs. Paulo Galdino, 8 rounds, junior welterweight

Euri Cedeno vs. Antonio Todd, 8 rounds, middleweight 

Arnold Gonzalez vs. Charles Stanford, 6 rounds, welterweight




Super Lightweight Prospect Bryce Mills Set to Clash with Gerffred Ngayot on Top Rank Card March 2

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (February 14, 2024) – Hot Super lightweight prospect Bryce Mills (14-1, 4 KOs), hailing from Syracuse, New York, returns to the ring as he prepares to face off against Gerffred Ngayot (6-1, 5 KOs), from Buffalo, New York, by way of Brazzaville, Congo. The fight is set to take place on March 2, 2024, at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, New York, in Mills’ backyard where he is a massive attraction, on a card promoted by Top Rank. The entire card will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+.

Mills is eager to showcase his skills in front of his hometown crowd. Mills, who is on an 8-fight winning streak, believes this match is a pivotal moment in his career.

“I’ve been in the gym non stop and training hard for this fight. I’m ready to give my hometown fans a night to remember,” said Bryce Mills. “Ngayot is a tough opponent, but I’ve faced challenges before, and I know what it takes to come out on top and put on a highlight performance. This is my time to shine, and I’m not planning on letting anything stand in my way.”

Mills has been honing his craft under the guidance of his advisor, Amer Abdallah, who has guided the illustrious career of Badou Jack, a three-division world champion. Abdallah, a well-known figure in the boxing world, expressed his confidence in Mills’ ability to rise to the occasion.

“Bryce Mills is an exciting fighter with a lot of talent and potential to do great things in the sport,” Amer Abdallah stated. “This fight against Ngayot is an important step in his journey, and I believe it will be a defining moment in his career. Bryce has a great team around him including his father Steve, Russel Peltz, Armando Munoz and Jim Andrello, which is pivotal in this sport. We are excited to showcase his talent on March 2nd, with great exposure on ESPN+.”

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Casino Box Office, by phone by calling 800.771.7711, or online at Ticketmaster.com.




3 Division World Champion & Hall of Famer Marco Antonio Barrera Confirmed for Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend, Saturday May 4, in Las Vegas

Las Vegas (February 14, 2024) – Three-division world champion and Hall of Famer

Marco Antonio Barrera has confirmed that he will appear at the Seventh Annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at the Las Vegas Convention Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Expo will also coincide with a mega fight that will take place later that evening in Las Vegas, featuring boxing star Canelo Alvarez.

Barrera will hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at his booth during the fan event held over the Cinco De Mayo weekend.

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, Canelo vs. Jacobs and Canelo vs. GGG III. 

Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com – @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

Barrera will make his fifth appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Barrera will also have merchandise to sell for fans to enjoy. Boxing Fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing legend also known as the “Baby Faced Assassin”.

About Marco Antonio Barrera

Barrera is a Mexican former professional boxer who competed from 1989 to 2011. He held multiple world championships in three weight classes, including the WBO super bantamweight title three times from 1995 to 2001; the WBC super featherweight title from 2004 to 2007; and the IBF super featherweight title from 2005 to 2006. Additionally, he held the IBO featherweight title in 2001; the lineal featherweight title from 2001 to 2003; and the Ring magazine featherweight title from 2002 to 2003. Barrera is well known for his trilogy with fellow Mexican legend Erik Morales, as well as his duology with Manny Pacquiao, and rivalry with Juan Manuel Marquez. ESPN ranked Barrera as number 43 on their list of the 50 greatest boxers of all time. Barrera was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2017.

About Box Fan Expo

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to meet the stars of boxing that represent the past, present and future of the sport. With hosted autograph signings, meet-and-greets with current and former boxing world champions, limited edition merchandise for sale, giveaways and more, this is the ultimate event for fans of the sport.

Past boxing stars that have participated include: Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Julio Cesar Chavez, Juan Manuel Marquez, Tommy Hearns, Roy Jones Jr, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, David Benavidez, Teofimo Lopez, Andre Ward, Ryan Garcia, Marcos Maidana, Devin Haney, Mikey Garcia, Errol Spence Jr, Fernando Vargas, Rolando Romero, Sergio Martinez, Tim Bradley, Jose Ramirez, Shawn Porter, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Abner Mares, James Toney, Jessie Vargas, Floyd Mayweather sr., Claressa Shields, Vinny Paz, Mia St.John, Franchón Crews-Dezurn, Seniesa Estrada, Jorge Linares, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris, Riddick Bowe, Earnie Shavers, Michael & Leon Spinks, Brandon Rios, Anthony Dirrell, Danny Jacobs, and many more.

Exhibitors include boxing promoters, gear, apparel, equipment, energy drinks, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies, and other companies who showcase their brand to fans and the boxing industry as a whole.

Throughout the next few months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –

https://bit.ly/BOXFANEXPO2024

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:

For media credentials:

Contact us:

Telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo




Top Rank Presents World Junior Lightweight Championship: O’Shaquie Foster vs. Abraham Nova

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone: Foster vs. Nova will be presented live this Friday, February 16, at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT, on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ from The Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

In the main event, WBC junior lightweight world champion, O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster will make his second world title defense against Abraham “El Super” Nova.

Foster (21-2, 10 KOs) is unbeaten in 11 fights since a split decision loss to Rolando Chinea in July 2016. He won the WBC world title in February 2023 with a one-sided decision over Mexican standout Rey Vargas. Eight months later, he salvaged his title with a come-from-behind 12th-round knockout over Eduardo “Rocky” Hernandez.

Nova (23-1, 16 KOs) had nearly 200 fights during a storied amateur career that included victories over Frank Martin, Richardson Hitchins, and Nahir Albright. In June 2022, he suffered his lone career setback, a one-punch knockout at the hands of two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist and eventual world champion Robeisy Ramirez. Following the Ramirez defeat, Nova returned to junior lightweight and picked up wins over veteran Adam Lopez and former world champion Jonathan Romero.

In the 10-round junior lightweight co-feature, Andres “Savage” Cortes takes on Puerto Rican contender Bryan Chevalier. Undefeated Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs) emerged in August 2021 with a first round knockout of former world title challenger Genesis Servania and has recorded four knockouts in his last six appearances. Chevalier (20-1-1, 16 KOs), a 10-year-pro, is unbeaten in his last 12 fights.
 
In the 10-round televised opener, rising featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington, will face Filipino-born standout Bernard Torres. Carrington (10-0, 6 KOs), 2020 U.S. Olympic trials champion, has been rapidly ascending the ranks since turning pro in October 2021. In his last performance, Carrington stunned former world title challenger Jason Sanchez by knocking him out in two rounds. Torres (18-1, 8 KOs), a Filipino-born southpaw, debuted in the paid ranks in October 2017. Torres is coming off a 10-round points verdict over Tanzanian veteran Nasibu Ramadhani in June.

Undercard action exclusively on ESPN+ begins at 5:20 p.m. ET/ 2:20 p.m. PT.

Calling the action will be ESPN’s Joe Tessitore, Hall of Famer Timothy Bradley, Jr., Mark Kriegel, and Bernardo Osuna. 

ESPN+: On Demand Shows, Archives & Premium Articles

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok

Foster vs. Nova (All Times ET)

Date Time Event Fights Title Platform
Wed. Feb 14 Noon Main Event Press Conference — —  ESPN+
Thu. Feb 15 1 p.m. Weigh-in — —
Fri. Feb 16 9 p.m. Main O’Shaquie Foster (C) vs. Abraham Nova WBC Jr. Lightweight ESPN, ESPN Deportes, ESPN+ (simulcast) 
Co-Feature Andres Cortes vs. Bryan Chevalier —
Opener Bruce Carrington vs. Bernard Torres
5:20 p.m. Feature Guido Vianello vs. Moses Johnson   ESPN+
Undercard Isaah Flaherty vs. Julien Baptiste
Undercard Ofacio Falcon vs. Edward Ceballos
Undercard Tiger Johnson vs. Paulo Galdino
Undercard Euri Cedeno vs. Antonio Todd
Undercard Arnold Gonzalez vs. Charles Stanford



“Cornflake” LaManna: When it’s all said and done, I’ll have one of the greatest comeback stories in boxing”.

MILLVILLE, NJ – FEBRUARY 14th – Renowned people’s champion Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna (37-5-1 17KOs), 32, of Millville New Jersey is poised to script one of the most inspiring comeback stories in the annals of boxing. With an ongoing remarkable career marked by grit, determination, and unwavering resilience, LaManna is gearing up for an ultimate (final) shot at a World Championship, marking the culmination of a journey that epitomizes the true essence of perseverance.
 
“It’s never been an easy ride as people may think, boxing is tough, lonely and gets really dark. It’s crazy to think about all the ups and downs I’ve had, but what’s even crazier is that I never gave up. There’s just something in me that won’t allow me to quit”.
 
LaManna’s losses came to only undefeated prospects (Antoine Douglas 16-0-1 & Dusty Hernandez-Harrison 29-0-1), top contender Jorge Cota (29-3) and future/current world champions (Brian Mendoza 18-1, Former WBC Interim Champion and Erislandy Lara 27-3-3, Former Jr. Middleweight World Champion and Current WBA Middleweight World Champion).
 
Despite facing setbacks and challenges throughout his illustrious career, including a WBA World Title opportunity, LaManna’s unwavering dedication to his craft and unyielding passion for the sport have solidified his WBA number 4 position in the Middleweight rankings.
 
“When it’s all said and done, and I become a World Champion, I will have one of the greatest comeback stories in boxing. I have so much faith in me, and I bet on me. I want my journey and my story to serve as hope and inspiration for aspiring up and coming boxers and just regular everyday people alike, showcasing the power of resilience and determination”.
 
As LaManna reflects on his storied career and contemplates his next chapter outside the ring, he will indeed leave an indelible legacy that transcends mere wins and losses. With an unparalleled comeback story etched in the annals of boxing history, “Cornflake” LaManna stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to chase their dreams relentlessly.
 
LaManna is coming off a 7th round TKO victory over Nicolas Hernandez (28-8-3 12KOs) on December 29th, 2023 at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Currently, LaManna holds the WBA Fedelatin Middleweight Championship. 



BABIC VS ROBINSON & CALLUM SIMPSON ADDED TO WARDLEY-CLARKE ‘BAD BLOOD’ BILL

LONDON, UK (February 14, 2024) – Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic takes on Steve Robinson and rising super middleweight star Callum Simpson is back in action on the undercard of the ‘Bad Blood’ showdown between unbeaten heavyweight rivals Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke on Sunday, March 31st at The O2 in London, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Babic (11-1, 10 KOs) returns to The O2 where he has previously recorded wins over Morgan Dessaux, former World Title challenger Eric Molina and Adam Balski. The popular Croatian heavyweight has built a cult following in the UK where he has amassed a series of impressive KO wins. His unbeaten run was cut short when challenging Lukasz Rozanski for the WBC Bridgerweight World Title in Poland last April. The 33-year-old will be looking to get back to winning ways when faces Newcastle’s Steve ‘Drago’ Robinson (6-2, 4 KOs) as part of a huge night of boxing in the capital.

Simpson (13-0, 9 KOs) was ringside to watch Zak Chelli capture the British Super Middleweight Title from Jack Cullen at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool in January. The Barnsley man is mandatory challenger for the British Title but before he has his crack at the Lonsdale belt, the 27-year-old will look to extend his unbeaten streak as he returns to London following a unanimous points win over Jose de Jesus Macias at York Hall in September.

Unbeaten heavyweights Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke collide in a ‘Bad Blood’ showdown for the British and Commonwealth Titles on Sunday, March 31st at The O2 in London, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Florian Marku and Chris Kongo will settle their simmering welterweight rivalry following an explosive press conference altercation last year with more major undercard announcements coming soon.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and VOW Nutrition.

Tickets, starting from just £30, go on general sale tomorrow (Thursday, February 15th) at midday. For more details visit: https://www.boxxer.com




BARAOU VS EGGINGTON TOO CLOSE TO CALL FOR ODDSMAKERS AS EURO CLASH NEARS

It’s official – Abass Barou and Sam Eggington’s European title showdown is too close to call!

The super welterweight rivals clash on March 1, at the Telford International Centre, live and free-to-air on Channel 5.

Boxing fans gave the big fight their seal of approval when Wasserman Boxing announced the contest last month, immediately predicting it will be on the fights of the year.

And the official fight odds, brought to you by Ladbrokes, reflect the excitement around this Euro showdown, with the oddsmakers unable to split Barou and Eggington.

MAKE A KNOCKOUT BET WITH LADBROKES

Baraou 10/11
Draw 18/1
Eggington 10/11

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: “It’s not often our traders are left sitting on the fence, but that’s absolutely the case when it comes to splitting Eggington and Baraou.”

He added: “We’re anticipating the local lad to head into the ring with the majority of punters’ backing; while his record suggests he’s had his ups and downs, Eggington always puts on a show.”

“Jack Culcay was no doubt Baraou’s toughest fight to date and, despite losing that clash in Germany, he heads to Telford on a five-fight winning streak, something our number crunchers are obviously conscious of.”

The Wasserman Boxing show, delivered in association with Numan and Infinitum, also sees the return of heavyweight Matty Harris and the latest fight for two of British boxing’s brightest prospects, Dan Toward and Tom Welland.

A tasty looking Southern Area Super Middleweight title fight between Andrei Dascalu and Joe Jackson-Brown also forms part of an exciting undercard in Telford.

Tickets for the European title showdown on March 1 are still available 




SUBRIEL MATIAS SIGNS MULTI-FIGHT CO-PROMOTIONAL DEAL WITH MATCHROOM

Subriel Matias has signed a multi-fight co-promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom and Fresh Productions.
 
Matias (20-1 20 KOs) landed the vacant IBF Super-Lightweight title last February, forcing Jeremias Ponce to retire after five rounds of their clash in Minnesota, and successfully defended his title against mandatory challenger Shohjahon Ergashev in November, forcing another retirement, this time after six rounds in Las Vegas, continuing his incredible record of finishing all of his victories inside the distance.
 
The Puerto Rican sensation is now eyeing a summer defense at home where the 31 year old made his debut in December 2015 and has boxed there 11 times to date. A homecoming as a World champion would be something special, and Matias is thrilled to be teaming up with Matchroom and DAZN to deliver the huge nights he is hunting. 
 
“I am very excited about the deal we’ve reached with Matchroom,” said Matias. I can’t wait to show DAZN, Matchroom, all the big names out there and the world why this deal was made: because I am the best 140 pounder on the planet. And I will show this in front of my people, which makes me immensely happy. I promise to keep working hard to give the fans what they are looking for. This is all-out wars until one of the two opponents breaks up. I do not run. It is not my fighting style, and it is not in my DNA. This will not change now in any way. Whoever they put in front of me, I will destroy.
 
“I thank my promoters, Matchroom and Fresh Productions, for this opportunity. I am excited to be in the Matchroom team. I will not let you down. To my people in Puerto Rico, I will see you soon. And we will have a glorious boxing night.”
 
“Fresh Productions is very excited and looking forward to this partnership with Matchroom,” said Juan Orengo, Fresh Productions. “After months of carefully analyzing several offers, for all of which we are immensely grateful, we have decided that Matchroom is the promoter that can take Subriel to the level of exposition and the names we are looking for. They believe in Puerto Rico’s boxing fans and market. They believe we can do big things in Puerto Rico, as do we.
 
“Puerto Rico is a boxing country with a long-standing legacy in the sport. We are here to revive that market and make Puerto Rico the great boxing venue it once was. Expect big things. We see a bright future ahead of us, and we believe Matchroom and DAZN are the perfect fit for our plans with Subriel.”
 
“I am delighted to welcome Subriel to the team,” said Hearn. “Subriel is one of the most exciting fighters on the planet, with action guaranteed every time he fights, and as a World champion at 140lbs, the fights out there for him are massive.
 
“Puerto Rico is a huge market for Matchroom and DAZN, and with Subriel joining Edgar Berlanga and Yankiel Rivera in our stable, we are looking forward to holding some huge events there, starting with Subriel’s heroic return for the first time as a World champion this summer.”
 
An announcement on Matias’ second defense of his World crown will be made soon.




SALITA PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCES ALL-STAR ANNOUNCER TEAM FOR “BIG TIME BOXING USA” EVENT FEBRUARY 20

ead the broadcast for the inaugural “Big Time Boxing USA” event taking place Tuesday, February 20 from Wayne State Fieldhouse in Detroit and streamed live on DAZN.

Former world champion and renowned fight analyst Raul “El Diamante” Marquez will be joined by special guest analyst and Detroit native SugarHill Steward as they break down the action alongside veteran blow-by-blow commentator Corey Erdman. The live stream will begin at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

A former 154-pound world champion and 1992 U.S. Olympian, Marquez has gained acclaim in recent years for his work as an analyst in both English and Spanish for SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and SHOBox: The Next Generation. Steward is the nephew of legendary trainer Emmanuel Steward and is the head trainer for WBC Heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury. Erdman is highly-regarded as both a writer and commentator, appearing on platforms including DAZN, ESPN, CBS and NBC.

“I’m very excited for this incredible team of announcers to share their knowledge on the ‘Big Time Boxing USA’ DAZN debut,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “This crew will give viewers insights and perspectives in a unique way with the point of view of a trainer of champions in SugarHill Steward, a world champion in Raul Marquez and the knowledgeable Corey Erdman. The goal of the series is to give exposure to some of the sport’s top talent and this is the best team for the job.”

The event will be headlined by a 10-round all-Michigan showdown as Flint’s Ardreal Holmes Jr. defends his USBA Super Welterweight Championship against Detroit’s Marlon Harrington, plus unbeaten USBA Light Heavyweight Champion Ali Izmailov faces Britton Norwood in a 10-round bout in the co-main

Action on DAZN will also feature a battle of unbeatens, as Grand Rapids-native and U.S. National Amateur Champion standout Joshua Pagan battles Detroit’s Dwane Taylor in an eight-round lightweight bout, plus undefeated Dearborn-native Da’Velle Smith competes in a six-round middleweight affair.

Tickets for the live event are available through ETix.com.

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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. 




Fighters First Launches Boxing Showcase Series

SAN ANTONIO, February 9, 2024 – Key to a professional boxer’s success at the highest levels is staying busy. However, it is increasingly challenging due to the fracturing promotional and media environment.

Taking matters into its own hands, Fighters Fight Management and promoter Desi Martinez created the new “Fighters First Showcase” boxing series to give emerging talents and prospects a platform to keep their skills sharp and provide them visibility.

First Event in San Antonio on Saturday, March 30

The first event in the planned four-fight card showcase takes place on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Boeing Center at Tech Port in San Antonio, Texas.

Top-rated lightweight contender Giovanni Cabrera of Chicago (21-1, 7 KOs) will headline the main event. Cabrera is coming off a narrow-split decision defeat to Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz on the Spence vs. Crawford undercard Cabrera is eager to get back to business.

“I am excited to return to the ring and showcase my skills in front of the fight fans from the great city of San Antonio,” said Cabrera.

Featured on the undercard is undefeated welterweight Justin Figueroa (7-0, 6 KOs), who scored a third-round knockout win on a December 14 Golden Boy Fight Night card; and lightweight Sharahya Moreu of Albuquerque, New Mexico, who won her professional debut at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City in July 2023.

Breaking Down Promoter Barriers

Fighters First CEO Adrian Clark created the Fighters First Showcase series to keep the roster active and recruit new clients. Clark teamed with San Antonio native Martinez, who is new to the business of boxing as a promoter but not new to business leadership.

Martinez, age 49, is the founder of the law firm Martinez & Associates. The showcase series marks his debut as a new promoter.

“Desi and I want to push the boxing culture forward and break promotional logjams with a new approach,” said Clark. “We can provide more opportunities for current clients and recruit talented unsigned fighters and develop healthy working relationships with other promoters and managers.

Martinez says his background has prepared him to take on this challenge. “I needed to do this with the right personnel and at the right time. Like any perfect combination, when timed right, it makes for a beautiful knockout. Desi Martinez Promotions and Fighters First Management are an ideal combination.”

Future Fighter First showcase cards will also take place in San Antonio.

Tickets are available on the Boeing Center Events website.




PBC’S INAUGURAL EVENT ON PRIME VIDEO KICKS OFF WITH TWO ACTION-PACKED MATCHUPS ON SATURDAY, MARCH 30

LAS VEGAS – February 13, 2024 – Two showdowns featuring a rising star in his toughest test to date and a flyweight world champion against an undefeated contender will highlight the first PBC on Prime Video show taking place Saturday, March 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The two matchups will be available via free access to all fans, regardless of Prime membership or purchase of the PPV card.

The live streaming presentation will be topped by rising middleweight Elijah García taking on contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis in a 10-round attraction, and will also feature WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez defending his world title against unbeaten contender Angelino Cordova to kick off the action at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

These bouts will lead into the inaugural four-fight PBC Pay-Per-View available on Prime Video beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and topped by two-time world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman dueling rising star and reigning world champion Tim Tszyu in the main event, plus WBA Super Lightweight World Champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero and Mexican star Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz meeting in the co-main event.

Rounding out the pay-per-view lineup is Cuban star and reigning WBA Middleweight World Champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara defending his belt against No. 1 rated mandatory challenger Michael Zerafa, plus all-action super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora meeting streaking contender Serhii Bohachuk for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World Championship in the pay-per-view opener. In addition to the PPV being available for purchase on Prime Video, regardless of Prime membership, fans will also be able to continue to access the PPV telecast through traditional cable and satellite outlets.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are available now through AXS.com. The main event is promoted in association with No Limit Boxing.

“PBC on Prime Video is coming out of the gate strong with two matchups that promise intrigue and fireworks on March 30 at T-Mobile Arena,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “One of 2023’s breakout stars, Elijah García is continuing to take big steps in his career against the highly-skilled and tough as nails Kyrone Davis. Adding in Mexican flyweight world champion Julio César Martínez against the highly-motivated and undefeated Angelino Cordova and fight fans will be in for non-stop drama in the sport’s first big Las Vegas event of 2024.”

ELIJAH GARCIA VS. KYRONE DAVIS

Looking to stamp his 160-pound contender status after a huge 2023 campaign, the 20-year-old Elijah García will return for a 10-round showdown against tough middleweight contender Kyrone “Shut It Down” Davis, who can make his own name at middleweight with a signature victory on March 30.

Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, García (16-0, 13 KOs) earned three impressive victories in 2023, kicking off his year last March with a knockout of the previously unbeaten Amilcar Vidal. He followed that up with a pair of performances on the undercards of two of the biggest events of the year, first defeating Kevin Salgado on the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia pay-per-view in April before knocking out Armando Resendiz on the Canelo Alvarez vs. Jermell Charlo pay-per-view in September. The precocious García has moved fast since turning pro in 2020 and has knocked out seven of his last nine opponents.

“I’m excited to be back in the ring, especially on this first event with PBC and Prime Video,” said García. “Fighting on these major events is an incredible blessing and I plan on delivering another great performance. Kyrone Davis has been in the ring with some very good fighters, and it will be a challenging fight, but my plan is to get the win by any means necessary. The fans are going to see an incredible night of boxing on March 30 and everyone should be tuning in.”

The 29-year-old Davis (18-3-1, 6 KOs) picked up two victories in 2023, dominating Cristian Fabian Rios in January before scoring a unanimous decision over Cruse Stewart in December. Those victories came after a run that saw Davis battle two-time champion Anthony Dirrell to a draw in February 2021, before stepping in as a late replacement two fights later to drop a hard-fought contest against super middleweight superstar David Benavidez. An amateur standout representing Wilmington, Delaware, Davis trains in Philadelphia under the tutelage of top trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

“Elijah García is a very good fighter who’s young and hungry and he looks the part, but most importantly he’s been moved right,” said Davis. “Sometimes you can look better than you really are if you’re being moved right. I got asked about this fight last year and of course I said yes. Then everything went silent. Now, I face Cruse Stewart and he goes the distance with me and Elijah stopped him, so now he fights me. I’m not going to say too much, but I’m glad they took the fight. We’ll see if Garcia is really the future come March 30.”

JULIO CESAR MARTINEZ VS. ANGELINO CORDOVA

Originally scheduled to duel last December before visa issues for Martinez scuttled the bout, WBC Flyweight World Champion Julio César Martínez is set to attempt his sixth defense of his belt against skilled top flyweight contender Angelino Cordova in a 12-round battle.  

Trained by the renowned Eddy Reynoso, Martínez (20-2, 15 KOs) first captured his flyweight world title with a ninth-round stoppage of Cristofer Rosales in his stateside debut in December 2019. The 29-year-old has gone on to defend the title five times, besting previously unbeaten opponents Jay Harris and Samuel Carmona, while most recently stopping Ronal Batista in May. A native of Mexico City, Martínez’s only blemish since a split-decision loss in his pro debut was a decision loss to future Hall of Famer Roman Gonzalez in March 2022.

“I’m ready to give it my all in training camp for this fight,” said Martínez. “I want all of the big fights and big prizes this year. My plan is to go earn this win on March 30 and end up with my hand raised. Then I’m going for all the belts, no matter who I have to face. I’m going to be the last man standing.”

The 28-year-old Cordova (18-0-1, 12 KOs) earned a career-best victory in his last outing, as he bested former world champion Angel Acosta on his way to a 10-round unanimous decision victory last April. A native of Ciudad Bolivar, Venezuela, Cordova has yet to taste defeat since debuting in 2017, with a draw in just his fourth fight as the only blemish. He made his U.S. debut in June 2022, defeating Axel Aragon Vega by decision before the triumph over Acosta.

“I’m very thankful that this fight is on and confirmed,” said Cordova. “My team did a great job making sure that this fight was rescheduled, and I’m thrilled it’s part of a huge card like this. I’m excited to finally face Martínez on March 30. The only thing on my mind is becoming the new WBC world champion.”

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For more information visit www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #ThurmanTszyu and #RollyPitbull, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions




Andres Cortes Vows All Out Mexican vs. Puerto Rico War Against Bryan Chevalier

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 13, 2023) – Top Ranks undefeated super featherweight contender, Andres “Savage” Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs), makes his New York City debut this Friday, Feb. 16, at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. Cortes will face off against Puerto Rican contender Bryan Chevalier (20-1-1, 16 KOs), in a fight that will catapult the winner one step closer to a world title shot.  

The 10-round matchup will serve as the co-feature alongside the main event, which will highlight the championship showdown between O’Shaquie Foster and Abraham Nova, for WBC Super Featherweight title. Live broadcast coverage will air on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Here is what Cortes had to say about his recent training camp, his upcoming matchup with Bryan Chevalier, fighting in New York City on national television, and more.

On his recent training camp:

“Training camp has been intense, and we’ve just wrapped it up. My brother and I have been grinding day in and day out in Las Vegas. Throughout this camp, I’ve pushed myself harder than ever, with the goal to show the world that I have what it takes to become a world champion. I’m determined to prove my worth to myself, the fans, and my promoter. My hard work will show once again in this fight.”

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On his matchup with Bryan Chevalier:

“I have a lot of respect for Chevalier, and I know he’s coming into this fight riding a nice winning streak. We both have power, and we like to throw down, so this will be a fan friendly fight for everyone tuning in. He will have his Puerto Rican fans deep in attendance, but I’m bringing my Mexican heart and desire with me. I’m going to make this fight a classic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico war. I’m going into this fight with the mindset to knock him out.

On fighting on ESPN for the first time in his career:

“This will be my first time fighting on regular ESPN and I am going to make my mark on the sport with this opportunity. The world is going to see why I’m boxing’s best kept secret. I have championship blood flowing in me, and it will show this Friday.

On fighting in New York City at Madison Square Garden:

“It’s always been a dream of mine to fight at Madison Square Garden, the mecca of boxing on the East Coast. It’s an honor to be fighting in New York City and I’m grateful to my promoter Top Rank for blessing me with this opportunity. It’s another step closer to fighting for a world title and I’m ready to shine.”




PIVOTAL HEAVYWEIGHT BOUT BETWEEN (#12) JAIRZINHO ROZENSTRUIK AND SHAMIL GAZIEV HEADLINES AT UFC® APEX

Las Vegas – UFC® returns to UFC APEX with a heavyweight contenders’ bout that will see No. 12 ranked Jairzinho Rozenstruik square off with undefeated Shamil Gaziev. Also, No. 7 ranked flyweight contender Alex Perez battles unbeaten No. 8 Muhammad Mokaev.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: ROZENSTRUIK vs. GAZIEV will take place Saturday, March 2 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire card will stream exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish, with the prelims beginning at 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT followed by the main card at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT.

UFC APEX VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that includes premium seating, all-inclusive hospitality, in-seat beverage service, meet-and-greets with UFC Octagon girls and more. Visit UFCVIP.com for more information.

Rozenstruik (13-5, fighting out of Paramaribo, Suriname) looks to kick off his 2024 campaign with another spectacular finish. A hard-hitting kickboxer, he has secured exiting KO wins against legends Junior Dos Santos, Alistair Overeem and Andrei Arlovski. Rozenstruik now aims to defend his spot in the rankings by stopping Gaziev in emphatic fashion.

Gaziev (12-0, fighting out of Kingdom of Bahrain) intends to make the most of his first UFC main event by dispatching Rozenstruik with a dominant performance. A Dana White’s Contender Series signee, he earned a Performance of the Night bonus for his KO win over Martin Buday in December. Gaziev now vies for a thrilling finish to crack the heavyweight Top 15.

Perez (24-7, fighting out of Lemore, Calif.) returns to the Octagon for the first time in almost two years looking for a statement victory. A former UFC title challenger, he holds notable finishes against Jussier Formiga, Jordan Espinosa and Jose Torres. Perez now plans to hand Mokaev his first career loss and prove that he is still one of the best flyweights in the world.

Mokaev (11-0 1NC, fighting out of Manchester, England) hopes to continue his ascent up the 125-pound ladder with an impressive victory. A talented striker and grappler, he has earned memorable submissions over Tim Elliott, Malcolm Gordon and Cody Durden. Mokaev now has his sights set on turning heads with another highlight-reel finish.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • Undefeated Vitor Petrino (10-0, fighting out of Santa Luzia, Minas Gerais, Brazil) locks horns with Tyson Pedro (10-4, fighting out of Sydney, Australia) at light heavyweight
  • No. 9 ranked contender Matt Schnell (16-7 1NC, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) meets rising No. 12 Steve Erceg (11-1, Perth, Western Australia) in an exciting flyweight tilt
  • Dana White’s Contender Series veterans collide when Josefine Knutsson (7-0, fighting out of Stockholm, Sweden) faces Julia Polastri (12-3, fighting out of Duque de Caxias, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) at strawweight
  • Joel Alvarez (20-3, fighting out of Asturias, Spain) takes on Ludovit Klein (20-4-1, fighting out of Nove Zamky, Slovakia) in an intriguing lightweight matchup
  • Undefeated No. 13 ranked bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov (16-0, fighting out of Kizilyurt, Russia) faces UFC newcomer Bekzat Almakhan (17-1, fighting out of Uzynagash, Kazakhstan)
  • Hard-hitting middleweights battle when Eryk Anders (15-8 1NC, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.) meets Jamie Pickett (13-10, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.)
  • Christian Leroy Duncan (9-1, fighting out of Gloucester, England) clashes with Claudio Ribeiro (11-4, fighting out of Jundiaí, São Paulo, Brazil) at middleweight
  • Mohammad Yahya (12-4, fighting out of Dubai, UAE) and Brendon Marotte (8-2, fighting out of Haverhill, Mass.) both vie for their first UFC victory in a featherweight bout
  • Aiemann Zahabi (10-2, fighting out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada) goes for his fourth consecutive win when he takes on undefeated Javid Basharat (14-0 1NC, fighting out of London, England by way of Paktia, Afghanistan) at bantamweight
  • Dana White’s Contender Series signee Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady (15-3, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) debuts against Loik Radzhabov (17-5-1, fighting out of Dushanbe, Tajikistan) at lightweight
  • Vinicius Oliveira (19-3, fighting out of Lomba Do Pinheiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil) squares off with Yanis Ghemmouri (12-2, fighting out of Lyon, France) at bantamweight

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

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About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 259 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 over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+

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About ESPN

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




Austin Brooks Captures WBA Continental Title on CBN Promotions’ “Super Brawl Saturday” Card

LONG BEACH, CA (February 12, 2024) – This past Saturday on CBN Promotions’ “Super Brawl Saturday” card, undefeated super featherweight prospect, Austin Brooks (12-0, 5 KOs), captured the WBA Continental title with a dramatic 7th round knockout over Jose Manuel Izaguirre (7-1, 3 KOs). In the 8-round co-main event, lightweight Tayden Beltran (8-0-1, 4 KOs), remained undefeated as he was victorious against Willmark Canonico (12-4-2, 10 KOs).

Watch the replay of CBN Promotions’ “Super Brawl Saturday” card tonight at 6:00 pm PT on FOX Deportes and later in the week on Estrella TV. The entire event aired live on Fubo Sports.

In the 8-round super featherweight main event, Austin Brooks had to make an adjustment to come out victorious against Jose Manuel Izaguirre. In the early rounds, Izaguirre landed his overhand right to the head of Brooks and took an early lead in the fight as both fighters were fighting out of the southpaw stance. In the fourth round, Brooks started to throw his right hook,

overhand left combo, and that adjustment changed the flow of the fight. In round seven, Brooks started to attack the body and broke down Izaguirre, stopping him at the :56 mark of the round.

“I wanted to come out and show everyone that I’m the real deal.” said Brooks. “I had to dig deep, and I give a lot of credit to my corner for giving me the right advice as I need to make an adjustment. Once I started landing my right hook, his hands came up and I started to crush his body. I’m grateful and I’m happy to be crowned the new WBA Contenential champion.”

Lightweight, Tayden Beltran won a hard-fought unanimous decision against Willmark Canonico. The fight was entertaining as both fighters were engaged throughout the entire fight. Both fighters were deducted a point for throwing punches after the bell. Beltran proved to be the stronger fighter and wore down Canoncio till the final bell. Scorecards read 76-74 twice and 77-73.

“I showed I was in great shape in this fight and proved to myself that I can bang out a win if need be.” said Beltran. “I’m looking forward to my next fight and I’m ready to face any of the top prospects in the division.”

Super lightweight Leonardo Rubalcava (5-0, 2 KOs KOs) defeated Lyle McFarlane (2-4, 1 KO) by knockout in the first round of a scheduled 6-round bout.

Super Bantamweight Adrian Alvarado (9-2-1, 4 KOs) defeated Brayan Ramos (5-5-1, 1 KO) by unanimous decision in a scheduled 6-round bout. Scorecards read 58-56, 59-58, 59-55.

Super Bantamweight Hector Lopez (4-0, 3 KOs) defeated Rod Sarguilla (2-5-1, 1 KO) by second round knockout in scheduled 4-round bout.  

Super bantamweight Jose Bravo (3-0, 3 KOs) defeated Rico Tartt (0-2) by knockout in the first round of a scheduled 4-round bout. 

This event is sponsored by Bud Light, HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, and Shoe Palace, Community comes first.




BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS PRESENTS SUPER BRAWL 2024

Boston Boxing Promotions kicks off the new year with Super Brawl 2024 this Friday, February 16th live on www.CombatSportsNow.com.

The main event features an intriguing heavyweight showdown between buzzed about heavyweight prospect, Andrii Novytskyi (8-0, 7 KOs) and bareknuckle boxing cult hero, Bobo O’Bannon (10-6, 10 KOs).

Novytskyi, who originally hails from Ukraine but now lives and trains out of Hollywood, California was one of the most active fighters in the world last year, turning pro and entering the ring an unbelievable 8 times in 2024. In his last appearance this past November at Boston Boxing Promotion’s Thanksgiving Eve Spectacular he dispatched former world title challenger, Santander Silgado Gelez in just one round.

Now Novytskyi takes on his most unique challenge in Mobile, Alabama’s Bobby “Bobo” O’Bannon aka the Bible Belt Brawler. The rugged bareknuckle boxer boasts a winning record in both professional boxing and bareknuckle boxing as well as a 100% KO ratio in all his wins. O’Bannon has developed a cult following in the bareknuckle world with his highlight reel knockouts and dynamic personality.

It promises to be a bombs aways, no scorecards needed type affair between the two big punchers since in their combined 42 professional fights, each man has only heard the final bell once.

In the co-main event, local fan favorite, Brandon Higgins (10-4, 5 KOs) takes on veteran Pablo Ernesto Oliveto (13-13-1, 4 KOs) in a 6 round welterweight contest. Higgins, who has taken on all comers, last fought against the then undefeated Kenny Larson in what was a New England Fight of the Year candidate resulting in a highly controversial split decision loss for Higgins. He looks to rebound in front of his hometown fans against Oliveto, a battled tested Argentinian fighter.

In other action on the card…

6’9 undefeated heavyweight slugger, Serhii Sheludko (3-0, 2 KOs) will return to New England against debuting Victor Hugo Costa.

Undefeated California middleweight, Mario “Christopher” Ramirez (4-0, 1 KO) who trains out of the KnuckleHeadz Gym with world champion trainer Joe “Hoss” Janik, will face the toughest challenge in his young career against veteran spoiler, Alfred Raymond.

Rounding out the night will be multiple amateur stand outs making their pro debuts including Alexis Bolduc, Chelsea LaGrasse, Duncan McNeil and Jarrid Digangi.

Last but not least on the call will be the voices of Boston Boxing, BoxRec’s Grey Johnson and musician/fighter Chris Jay whose combination is second to none when it comes to boxing knowledge and honest, often hilarious, commentary.

“We’re set to kick off Boston Boxing Promotions’ biggest year and what better way to do it then with our 2024 Fighter of the Year, Andrii Novytski.” explains, Boston Boxing President, Peter Czymbor.

“The Ukrainian big man has become a fan favorite here in the Boston area and putting him against a hard hitting brawler should provide for an explosive main event. We invite both boxing and bareknuckle fans from around the world to tune into www.CombatSportsNow.com this Friday for another fun filled night of fights.”

Super Brawl 2024 takes place this Friday, February 16 at Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts. Limited tickets are available now at www.bostonboxingpromotions.com and the entire event will stream live on www.CombatSportsNow.com

ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events throughout Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. In 2020, Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event during the pandemic. The event led to a popular series of empty venue shows broadcast live and for free on YouTube watched by thousands of fans around the world. Their annual Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular has become a tradition for hardcore boxing fans with 6 consecutive sellouts including the most recent 2023 edition which received national news coverage.

Follow Boston Boxing Promotions on Social Media!




Sampson Boxing Signs Unbeaten Brazilian Cruiserweight Lucas Pontes da Silva to a Promotional Contract

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of undefeated Brazilian cruiserweight prospect Lucas Pontes da Silva to a promotional contract, with plans to feature the hard-punching South American on ProBoxTV.

Hailing from Belem, Para, Brazil, Pontes da Silva (7-0, 7 KOs) has close ties to one of his country’s greatest champions, as his father and trainer, Ulisses Pereira, has worked with former WBO lightweight champion Acelino “Popo” Freitas for more than two decades.

“My godfather of boxing is Acelino Freitas,” said Pontes da Silva. “I’ve been training with him and my father my entire life, so I am heavily influenced by him.”

After going 53-3 as an amateur, Pontes da Silva turned professional in 2017 and won the Brazilian national title in just his third fight by stopping then 8-1 Fernando Rodrigo Simoes de Almeida in two rounds. He has since added the WBC Feconsur Cruiserweight title by stopping Maximiliano Jorge Gomez in one round last year and, in his last fight, picked up the Universal Boxing Organization World Cruiserweight Championship via first-round knockout over Venezuela’s Reinaldo Gonzalez in July.

Recognizing his promising fighter’s need for proper promotional representation, Pontes da Silva’s manager, Junior Santos, brought the hard-hitting prospect to Sampson Boxing President, Sampson Lewkowicz.

I feel very proud to be part of Sampson Boxing,” said Pontes da Silva of his new promoter. “Sampson Lewkowicz is a big name in the boxing world and has worked with many champions. I’m very eager to show that I belong on his team.”

Father/trainer Ulyssess Perreira echoes his son’s sentiments.

“I feel very proud for my son to have gotten to this level and very thankful to Sampson for accepting us. I’m going to make my son a champion with his help.”

Pontes da Silva is scheduled to make his 10-round Sampson Boxing promotional and ProBoxTV debut against fellow knockout artist Efetobor “The Nigerian Pitbull” Apochi (11-2, 11 KOs) on February 16.

Despite this being a dangerous matchup against a fellow KO specialist, Perreira says neither he nor his son are particularly concerned. “We have a plan ready,” said Perreira. “With all respect to him, it’s just another fight in a line. We are in the business to work, and we will do whatever it takes.”

“He’s going to come very aggressively trying to win because he’s on a losing streak,” added Pontes da Silva (Apochi has dropped two split decisions against other top prospects in his last two fights). “We have a similar style of coming forward and I see things in him I can take advantage of. You’ll be amazed.”

“Our goal is to bring boxing its newest world champion from Brazil,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of his latest signing. “Lucas has the power and the team in place to go far in the sport. He has grown up around world champions and works hard to make his father proud and become the next one. I am very happy to be working with Lucas and his team.”




Jamaine Ortiz: “I was in control – this was a one-sided fight for me”

LAS VEGAS, NV – Jamaine Ortiz (17-2-1, 8 KOs) was the “Showman” on Thursday night.  In his first world title fight against Ring and WBO junior welterweight champion Teofimo Lopez (20-1, 13 KOs), the Technician executed his fight plan to perfection: darting in and out with quick combinations, feinting and countering effectively, and using movement and speed to puzzle and frustrate one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world.  The only thing Ortiz didn’t do was win a decision in the eyes of the judges.  

“It was a masterful performance,” said CES Boxing founder Jimmy Burchfield, Sr.  “He outboxed Lopez from the beginning.  Jamaine outshined the showman in his hometown and then he was robbed of the decision.  It’s shame when a fighter loses a decision like that after putting on such a boxing clinic.  As far as I’m concerned, we beat Teofimo Lopez and we’re ready to challenge the other champions in the division.”

Closely guarding his gameplan throughout fight week, ‘The Technician’ came out as a southpaw from the opening bell and never switched to orthodox.  Despite having fought southpaws the likes of Vasyl Lomachenko, Josh Taylor and Sandor Martin throughout his career, Lopez seemed unable to hit Ortiz cleanly and was equally ineffective at cutting off the ring. 

“I stuck to the gameplan,” said a dejected Ortiz moments after the decision.  “He couldn’t hit me.  I was making him miss all night.  I was keeping him at bay with the jab, I was countering with the check hook. He wasn’t landing any shots on me.” 

Team Ortiz devised a plan based on Lopez being ineffective in the role of aggressor.  The game plan paid dividends immediately, as Teofimo often found himself punching air and being made to pay with counter right hooks. 

“Like I said the whole week, he gets frustrated,” said Ortiz of his opponent’s temperament. “He can’t control himself. I know how to control myself and I knew he couldn’t. That was the game plan: get him frustrated and make him lose control.  He was throwing wild, I was making him miss, it was part of the game plan and it worked.”

That’s not to say that Ortiz fought off the back foot all night.  There were several instances throughout the contest when Lopez waved Ortiz in and Jamaine obliged, tagging up the Brooklyn native with rapid fire combinations. 

After 12 rounds, the only real damage that ‘The Technician’ suffered, other than the widely booed decision, was a cut on his left eye from a headbutt in round 7. 

“I believe I won the fight,” said Ortiz to a group of reporters afterwards. “I got him out of his gameplan.  He was frustrated and I was in control.  He was missing wildly, and I was countering him.  What can I say?  It’s politics as usual.”

Several high-profile boxers agreed, taking to social media in the early hours of Friday morning to voice their opinions.

“People gotta understand the game is called ‘BOXING’ and not ‘FIGHTING’,” wrote undisputed welterweight champion Terrence Crawford.  “Hit and not get hit.  But I guess y’all don’t know what that means, because when y’all see a fighter boxing the first thing y’all say is he’s running.”

“Beautiful boxing by Ortiz,” echoed former 2-time welterweight champion Shawn Porter.  “Doing exactly what he needs to do.  It’s like a video game.  If you can’t stop my play why the hell would I pick a different play?” 

Undefeated junior welterweight contender Arnold Barboza Jr. summed it up best: “Ortiz boxed well. Congratulations.  Hopefully they don’t rob you”. 

“I came up on the short end of the stick once again,” lamented Ortiz.  “Obviously we’ll go back to the drawing board, make some adjustments, and come back for another title shot.  The fans know what happened. The media knows, my team knows.  The whole world probably saw it my way, but the decision is already made. Boxrec and history will say that he won, but hopefully we get a rematch and I’ll make it more of a clear decision next time around.”

Jamaine Ortiz may not be coming home with the official win, but the fans, his peers and the world saw the Worcester native put on a boxing clinic as he showed up ‘The Showman’ in his own backyard. 

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.INFORMATIONCES Boxing is one of the top promotions on the East Coast.  Founded in 1992 by Jimmy Burchfield Sr., CES Boxing has promoted many world class fighters, including Jamaine Ortiz, Juiseppe Cusumano, Hank Lundy, Vinny Paz, Peter Manfredo, Mariusz Wach, Jason Estrada, Matt Godfrey, Chad Dawson and Ray Oliveira. CES Boxing has promoted such super fights as “The Thriller on Triller: Tyson v Jones Jr.”, “Mayweather vs. Gotti III” and “The Contender: Manfredo v Pemberton”.

 



WEIGHTS FROM LONG BEACH

Austin Brooks 129 vs Jose Manuel Izaguirre 129

Tayden Beltran 140.4 vs Willmark Canonico 143.8

Leonardo Rubalcava 141.1 vs Lyle McFarlane 141

Andrian Alvarado 120 vs Brayan Ramos Armenta 120

Hector Lopez 119.6 vs Rod Sarguilla 119

Jose Bravo 121.6 vs Rico Tartt 123.5

“Super Brawl Saturday” takes place at Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, February 10, 2024. The venue is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810, easily accessible from the 405, the 710 and 91 freeways, just a few miles from the Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly know as the StubHub Center.

The entire event will be broadcast live on Fubo Sports. In addition, the fights will also air tape delayed on Fox Deportes and Estrella TV.

Doors open and the first bell for “Super Brawl Saturday” at 5:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Thunder Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, and Shoe Palace, Community comes first.




APRIL 13TH – UNITED FIGHT NIGHT AT PICKERING CASINO RESORT

PICKERING  — Durham Region’s brightest boxing stars will look to defend home turf on Saturday, April 13th, when United Boxing Promotions will debut its new United Fight Night series with an action-packed six fight event at the Pickering Casino Resort.

Designed as a showcase opportunity for rising prospects and local boxing talent, the series will kick off with world-ranked Pefferlaw product Melinda ‘The Whip’ Watpool (5-0, 2 KO, WBA #3) headlining its Main Event on April 13th.

“Our new United Fight Night series is about celebrating Durham Region, and there’s no better way to do that than with a world-ranked local product headlining her first Main Event,” said United Promotions president Tyler Buxton. “The series is an opportunity for local boxers to fight on their own turf and in front of their own fans, who in turn will get to see both their favourite fighters and the next generation of rising stars in Ontario boxing.”

>> BUY TICKETS NOW

Oshawa’s ‘Bad’ Thad Buntsma (4-3-1, 2 KO) will battle former Mexican champion Luis ‘Coto’ Vidales (24-10, 10 KO) in a Co-Main Event that promises fireworks as a career crossroads fight for both men.

The Durham Region flair will continue on the undercard, with a pair of undefeated Oshawa products set to feature in light flyweight Evan ‘Kid Chrome’ Gillard (6-0-1, 1 KO) and light heavyweight Jerome ‘The Wildcat’ Gabriel (3-0, 1 KO) — the latter making a much-anticipated return to professional boxing.

It will also be a night of firsts, as World Champion kickboxer Michael ‘Spartan’ Fitzpatrick will make his professional boxing debut and Ajax welterweight Kyle ‘The Caveman’ McLaughlin (3-0, 3 KO) will fight for the first time on Canadian soil.

Tickets are available now through sales@unitedpromotions.ca.

About United Boxing Promotions

Featuring the province’s best fighters in world-class venues, Tyler Buxton’s United Boxing Promotions has a two-decade track record of developing elite boxing talent and delivering one of the premier fan experiences in Ontario sport. United’s roster includes four reigning IBO continental champions, a former Olympian and a former WBO World Title Challenger.

About Pickering Casino Resort

Officially opened in 2023, the Pickering Casino Resort is a premier gaming destination boasting over 2,200 slot machines, 90-plus live tables and more than 50 electronic table games, as well as a variety of restaurants and an adjoining 275-room luxury hotel.

The United Fight Night series builds on the watershed success of five professional boxing shows at the Pickering Casino Resort last year, and will feature more Durham Region flair in 2024.




WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT VS. “THE EGYPTIAN PRINCE” MPONDA KALUNGA  

Huntington, New York (February 9, 2024) – Star Boxing’s high-octane featured clash at the Paramount in Huntington, NY, on February 23, pits the hard-hitting WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT (15-2 8KOs) against the tactical “EGYPTIAN PRINCE” MPONDA KALUNGA (11-2 3KOs) in a 10-round bout for the WBA Continental USA Super Welterweight Championship. 

Toussaint comes into “Rockin’ Fights” 46 with an impressive record of 15-2 and 8 KOs and is a powerhouse in the ring. His journey from the streets of Haiti to the bright lights of New York’s boxing scene is nothing short of inspirational. Known for his ferocious and relentless fighting style, Toussaint has consistently proven himself to be a top contender in the super welterweight division. His fans adore him for his dynamic approach and his ability to deliver exhilarating knockouts. 

Kalunga, known as “The Egyptian Prince,” holds a record of 11-2 with 3 KOs. Kalunga relies on his precision and speed, coupled with an uncanny ability to adapt to his opponent’s style, making him a formidable force in the ring. Representing Egypt but training and fighting out of Toronto, Canada, Kalunga brings a unique flair and a determined spirit that makes him a fan favorite and a serious threat to any opponent. 

The matchup between Toussaint and Kalunga at Rockin’ Fights 46 is not just a battle for the championship but a collision of two distinct fighting styles and backgrounds. Toussaint’s aggressive, power-driven approach contrasts sharply with Kalunga’s methodical and tactical prowess, promising a thrilling and unpredictable battle that will have fans on the edge of their seats. 

Tickets for the 46th edition of Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights” are available now, HERE.

Star Boxing “Rockin’ Fights” announced its 2024 Paramount dates (Feb 23, May 11, Sept 14 & Nov 23). TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW for all four 2024 events HERE

 




MARKU-KONGO CONFIRMED FOR ‘BAD BLOOD’ CLASH ON MARCH 31ST AT THE O2 IN LONDON

LONDON, UK (February 9th, 2024) – More bad blood has been added to BOXXER’s hotly-anticipated Super Sunday Bank Holiday showdown between unbeaten heavyweights Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke with welterweight rivals Florian Marku and Chris Kongo set to settle their differences on March 31st at The O2 in London, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

There’s no love lost between Marku and Kongo, who had to be pulled apart following an explosive press conference altercation last year. It will be a clash of styles as the ‘Albanian King’ and ‘2 Slick’ meet in the capital to settle their long-standing feud in a fascinating ten round contest.

Marku, the unbeaten former IBF International Champion, made short work of his last opponent, stopping Dylan Moran inside 60 seconds on the undercard of the Liam Smith vs Chris Eubank Jr rematch on September 2nd in Manchester. The 31-year-old will be raring to go following this speedy stoppage win and is expected to bring an army of Albanian supporters with him to London.

Kongo returns following a narrow points defeat to Ekow Essuman for the British, Commonwealth, IBF European and WBC International Silver Welterweight Titles on January 21st last year. The Bermondsey man thought he did another to edge the contest but found himself of the wrong end of a majority decision at Manchester’s AO Arena.

Florian Marku said: “I’m really pleased that all my fans get to see me put on a special performance on this great card at The O2, live on Sky Sports. It’s been two and half years since my last fight in London. I can’t wait to get back in the ring and for all my fans to see me knock out Chris Kongo.”

Chris Kongo said: “I’m back in my backyard, and I’m not here to play games. Marku might think he’s dangerous, but he’s just another stepping stone on my path. I’ll show everyone why I belong at the top, starting with a victory at The O2 in South London.” 

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “This is a great addition to what is going to be an incredible night of action at The O2. Florian Marku vs Chris Kongo is a fight fans have wanted to see for years. Finally, we will see them in the ring on Sunday, March 31st. It’s another unmissable ‘Bad Blood’ matchup and a must-win fight for both men.” 

Unbeaten heavyweight rivals Fabio Wardley and Frazer Clarke collide in a ‘Bad Blood’ showdown for the British and Commonwealth Titles on Sunday, March 31st at The O2 in London, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA

Pre-sale tickets, priced from just £30, go on sale at midday on Tuesday, February 13th with general sale tickets available from midday on Thursday, February 15th. Sign up for pre-sale tickets here: https://www.boxxer.com/sign-up-31-mar/

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and VOW Nutrition.




SHEERAZ VS WILLIAMS WEIGH-IN RESULTS

IT IS ALL systems go for this Saturday on TNT Sports with the captivating clash of the middleweights between young contender Hamzah Sheeraz and former world title challenger Liam Williams in the main event at the Copper Box Arena, with the WBC Silver and Commonwealth titles on the line.

Sam Noakes and Lewis Sylvester will go into battle for the British lightweight title, plus we have the return of Anthony Yarde. The fighters gathered today in London for the final press conference and below are a selection of key quotes from the headline fighters.

?
WBC Silver & Commonwealth Middleweight Contest 12 x 3 Minute Rounds
Hamzah Sheeraz 159.4lbs
Liam Williams 159lbs

WBC silver International & Commonwealth & vacant British & vacant WBO international Lightweight Championships 12 x 3 Minute Rounds
Sam Noakes 134.6lbs
Lewis Slyvester 133.6lbs

Commonwealth Silver Featherweight Championship 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Masood Abdullah 125.7lbs
Qais Ashfaq 134.13lbs

International Light-Heaveight Contest 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Anthony Yarde 177.7lbs
Marko Nikolic 179.6lbs

International Light-Heavyweight Contest 8 x 3 Minute Rounds
Karol Itauma 181.12lbs
Eros Seghetti 182.13lbs

International Cruiserweight Contest 6  x 3 Minute Rounds
Tommy Fletcher 202.5lbs
Alvaro Terrero 204.13lbs

International Cruiserweight Contest 6  x 3 Minute Rounds
Aloys Junior 204.6lbs
Miloslav Savic  To Weigh-in Tomorrow

International Featherweight Contest 6  x 3 Minute Rounds
Umar Khan 128lbs
Maicol Velazco 129.2lbs

International Lightweight Contest 4 x 3 Minute Rounds
Billy Adams 132.5lbs
Engel Gomez 133.9lbs

International Super-Featherweight Contest 4  x 3 Minute Rounds
Charlie Hickford – 127.4lbs
Yin Caicedo – 126.7lbs

International Middleweight Contest 4  x 3 Minute Rounds
Sam King – 160lbs
Bartos Glowacki – 159.13lbs




DILLON VS. BELLOTTI WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER

6 x 3 mins International Heavyweight contest
EMMANUEL ODIASE 259.6 lbs v AMINE BOUCETTA 231 lbs
(Hamburg, Germany)                    (Ghent, Belgium)

followed by

4 x 3 mins International Lightweight contest
IBRAHEEM SULAIMAAN 135.3 lbs v JORDAN PATRICK TOMASONI 136.5 lbs
(Birmingham, England)                       (Nice, France)

followed by

4 x 3 mins Middleweight contest
JACK OLIPHANT 161.7 lbs v JENSEN IRVING 162.3 lbs
(Greenwich, England)             (Swindon, England)

followed by

19:00 LIVE ON DAZN

8 x 3 mins International Cruiserweight contest
JOHN HEDGES 199.2 lbs v ERDOGAN KADRIJA 195.4 lbs
(Takeley, England)               (Hamburg, Germany)

followed by

10 x 2 mins WBA International Super-Flyweight Title
SHANNON RYAN 114.9 lbs v JASMINA ZAPOTOCZNA 114.5 lbs
(Watford, England)                 (Wakefield, England)

followed by

10 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest
CRAIG RICHARDS 176.7 lbs v BORIS CRIGHTON 176.2 lbs
(Crystal Palace, England)        (Glasgow, Scotland)

followed by

8 x 3 mins Lightweight contest
CAMERON VUONG 136.5 lbs v ISHMAEL ELLIS 135.9 lbs
(Blyth, England)                          (Birmingham, England)

followed by

12 x 3 mins British and Commonwealth Super-Featherweight Titles
LIAM DILLON 129.9 lbs v REECE BELLOTTI 129.4 lbs
(Chingford, England)       (Watford, England)  




PROMOTER SAMPSON LEWKOWICZ GRATEFUL FOR HIS INDUCTION INTO ATLANTIC CITY BOXING HALL OF FAME

Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz wishes to thank the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame for his induction, as part of the 2023 class of honorees, for his “extensive contributions to the boxing industry.”

A staple of professional boxing for over three decades, the well-liked Lewkowicz has been credited with discovering several of the sport’s breakout superstars, including Manny Pacquiao, Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, Sultan Ibragimov, David Benavidez, Jeison Rosario, Jorge Barrios, Chris John, Michael Katsidis, Sebastian and Gabriela Fundora, and many more.

Born in Montevideo, Uruguay, Lewkowicz, began his career in the fight game as a matchmaker for Murad Muhammad’s M & M Sports and later, in 2008, graduated to his own promotional firm, Sampson Boxing.

The South American visionary has guided the careers of, currently, 39 world champions, done shows all over the world and been an ardent supporter of South American amateur boxing by sponsoring several prestigious annual tournaments in conjunction with Mauricio Sulaiman and the WBC as a sponsor in Mexico.

Lewkowicz served as matchmaker and site coordinator for countless Atlantic City events televised on USA Network’s legendary Tuesday Night Fights and has gone on to promote several more AC shows on ShoBox: The New Generation and ESPN Friday Night Fights.

“Atlantic City has always held a special place in my heart, and I am honored to be recognized by the ACHOF,” said Lewkowicz. “Without Atlantic City and the guidance and mentoring of commissioner Larry Hazard, I would not have been able to achieve the things I’ve done.”

A living fairy tale in boxing, Lewkowicz emigrated to the US at age 20 in 1971. Three years later, he married his wife Ketty, his lifelong companion. They later had a son Nathan.

Among the many notable names Lewkowicz brought to fight in Atlantic City are Sydney Olympic games silver medalist Sultan Ibragimov, whom Lewkowicz helped develop from pro debut to winning the WBO Title from Shannon Briggs, as well as middleweight king “Maravilla” Martinez, Dominican multi-weight world champion Javier Fortuna, Yonatan Guzman Pena, current contenders Roiman Villa and Edwin De Los Santos, and Atlantic City’s own late Leavander Johnson, to name a few.

“Atlantic City has always been very good to me, and I have enjoyed my history of introducing superstar fighters and putting on spectacular events there,” added Lewkowicz. “I learned my craft from many of the greatest boxing minds of the century who are based in that area. I am eternally grateful for this prestigious recognition.”

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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.




BOXXER AND STARTIMES ANNOUNCE MAJOR BROADCAST PARTNERSHIP ACROSS SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA

LONDON, UK (February 9th, 2024) – BOXXER is delighted to announce a new media rights partnership with StarTimes in Sub-Saharan Africa, allowing fans across the region to watch BOXXER events exclusively on the digital television operator’s platforms.

Headquartered in Beijing, StarTimes has become the fastest-growing and most influential digital TV operator in Africa, boasting subsidiaries in more than 30 African countries and with a reach of 45 million people in the region.

LIVE broadcasts of BOXXER shows to 13 million households in Sub-Saharan Africa will enable BOXXER’s roster of elite fighters to showcase their skills to a region with a flourishing combat sports fanbase. The deal will be accompanied by a range of shoulder programming to elevate StarTimes’ promotion of BOXXER events and familiarise African audiences with BOXXER fighters, many of whom are of African heritage.

BOXXER shows air LIVE and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, after the leading UK sports broadcaster signed a four-year deal with BOXXER in 2021. BOXXER’s international footprint was bolstered significantly on the signing of a long-term and exclusive US broadcast partnership with NBC Sports in October 2023; and the rapidly-growing promotion is home to a world-class stable of fighters including Joshua Buatsi, Richard Riakporhe, Caroline Dubois, Chris Billam-Smith, Martin Bakole, Adam Azim, Ben Whittaker and many more.

Commenting on the new partnership, BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “Africa is a major growth region and focus for us in the coming months and years. Many of our fighters are of African heritage and feel deep affinity with the region, and we know there is a strong appetite for elite-level combat sports there. We’re delighted to announce this new partnership with StarTimes and open up our events and fighters to millions of viewers across Africa.”

Li Bin, Director of Sports Channels at StarTimes said: “StarTimes always spare no effort to present the best in sports entertainment to our viewers. We are honoured to collaborate with BOXXER, such a professional boxing promoter who share the same target with us, and trust that the joint efforts will bring extraordinary experiences to the fans of combat sports across Africa.”

BOXXER’s most recent event on February 3rd saw Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez, the world #1 and #2 ranked light-heavyweights – of Ghanaian and Nigerian heritage respectively – go head-to-head over twelve electric rounds at OVO Arena Wembley in London.

BOXXER’s next show will take place on March 31st at The O2 in London, as undefeated heavyweight rivals Fabio Wardley (17-0) and Frazer Clarke (8-0) clash for the British and Commonwealth Titles, in a highly-anticipated grudge match.




SHEERAZ-WILLIAMS QUOTES

IT IS ALL systems go for this Saturday on TNT Sports with the captivating clash of the middleweights between young contender Hamzah Sheeraz and former world title challenger Liam Williams in the main event at the Copper Box Arena, with the WBC Silver and Commonwealth titles on the line.

Sam Noakes and Lewis Sylvester will go into battle for the British lightweight title, plus we have the return of Anthony Yarde. The fighters gathered today in London for the final press conference and below are a selection of key quotes from the headline fighters.

Liam Williams
“Camp has gone really, really well and I’ve trained my nuts off! I am ready and, if I’m not ready now, I never will be. I feel like I’ve turned back the clock a little bit and I’ve got that killer instinct back. I’ve been digging in and putting the work in because I want to be the best. I’m ready.

“He did ruin my Christmas a little bit. I was hoping for the fight in December and then have a bit of a chill out for a couple of weeks, but it didn’t do me any harm and I stayed fit over Christmas. If anything, it has made me better for this fight now. I still had a little runout.

“This the real one and where we want to be now. I don’t know why they have picked me and I think it is a bad mistake. They are bringing me in to get beat by this guy. He’s very good, he’s talented, big for the weight and the list goes on, really. I don’t think I am the right one for the job and you have brought in the wrong guy.

“I would have done exactly the same to every person he’s knocked out and that is no disrespect because he can only beat whoever is put in front of him. No, it is not a padded record, he’s had a couple of good wins, but I don’t think he has been in with someone yet who has really tested him and stuck it on him.

“On Saturday night we are going to see how he holds up to that.”

Hamzah Sheeraz
“I am just looking forward to it, I’ve put in the work and I don’t really have much to say. Saturday night, let’s go. He has always looked dangerous, to be fair, he’s got a lot of knockouts and the respect is there. I’d be a fool not to.

“In terms of this camp, I have prepared for the best version of him come Saturday night. In my head the best version still exists and, if I didn’t think otherwise, I wouldn’t have prepared like I have.

“It is my time to shine now. I know you hear that all the time, but if I win on Saturday in good fashion there are big things for me in 2024.

“I’d like to think he can take me into the second half of the fight because there needs to be a point in your career when you go past certain rounds to answer questions and whatnot. If that doesn’t happen I won’t be complaining.

“The ideal night is a Hamzah Sheeraz win, it all depends on that. For me to achieve my dreams and make people proud, I have to put on a performance. A stoppage is the plan and I don’t see why I can’t do it. The way I work and my mentality is elite level. I am rubbing shoulders with great champions in LA and only learning off them.”