London, UK (31 October 2020) Following an injury sustained in training and on medical advice, British Light-Heavyweight Champion Shakan Pitters has had to withdraw from his title defence against Craig Richards on Saturday 14th November.

Promoter Mick Hennessy has managed to reschedule the highly-anticipated showdown for Friday 18th December to be broadcast live and exclusive on free-to-air Channel 5 in the UK.

Further details will be announced in due course with the full supporting undercard.

Remember the mega-fight between Gervonta Davis vs. Leo Santa Cruz is live on Channel 5 this Sunday morning at 2am GMT. The fight will also be made available on Channel 5’s streaming service My5 from 9am Sunday morning, as well as on ViacomCBS-owned Pluto TV in the UK.

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

West Ham United winger Andriy Yarmolenko is hoping to lead a memorable Ukrainian sporting double this evening. 

First, Yarmolenko and the Hammers will go for Premier League victory at reigning Champions Liverpool, before former Undisputed Cruiserweight World Champion Oleksandr Usyk takes centre stage with Derek Chisora at The SSE Arena, Wembley. 

The pair are arguably two of biggest sporting names in their country, and the Hammers star has wished his compatriot luck.

“Oleksandr! Welcome to London! I wish you good luck in your fight!” Yarmolenko smiled. “All Ukrainians will be supporting you.”

Usyk received a package of Claret and Blue goodies from the No.7 at his hotel, where he sat down with Matchroom to talk about his love of football, his admiration for Yarmolenko and look back on his Gold Medal winning performance at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

“We have to support each other,” said the 33-year-old. “He is a Ukrainian and I am a Ukrainian too. It doesn’t matter where we are. At the moment we are far away from our country, Andriy is playing for a London team and I am fighting in London too. This is totally normal that we have to support each other. 

“If his team will win Andriy will win and will bring victory to Ukraine. The main thing for me is that Andriy will be playing there. If he wins it will be a victory for Ukraine as well.”

Saturday’s sporting double will both be broadcast live in the UK by Sky Sports, with West Ham’s Premier League clash with Liverpool kicking-off at 5.30pm on Sky Sports Premier League, followed by Usyk’s bout with Chisora that will be shown on Sky Sports Box Office, with coverage starting at 6pm.

Heavyweights Usyk and Chisora go toe-to-toe in London on a stacked card that also features Lee Selby (28-2, 9 KOs) and George Kambosos Jr (18-0, 10 KOs) in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Lightweight World Title, Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (8-0, 6 KOs) meets Glasgow’s Hannah Rankin (9-4, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBO Middleweight World title, Belfast’s Tommy McCarthy (16-2, 8 KOs) takes on Belgium’s Bilal Laggoune (25-1-2, 14 KOs) for the vacant European Cruiserweight Title, Amy Timlin (4-0) faces off with Carly Skelly (3-0) for the vacant Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight Title and Ramla Ali makes her professional debut against Eva Hubmeyer (1-0, 1 KO). 

Oleksandr Usyk’s huge Heavyweight clash with Derek Chisora will be broadcast on BBC Radio 5 Live as part of a BBC deal with Matchroom Boxing that also includes Anthony Joshua’s next fight against Kubrat Pulev on Saturday December 12. 

Mike Costello and Steve Bunce will be ringside at The SSE Arena Wembley, with special guest Dillian Whyte joining the team as co-commentator from his training camp in Portugal, as he prepares for his must-win rematch with Alexander Povetkin on November 21. 

Chisora’s showdown with Usyk kick starts a busy spell in British boxing, with BBC Radio 5 Live airing ringside commentary for four huge upcoming fight nights. The deal also includes Katie Taylor’s Lightweight World Title clash with Miriam Gutierrez on November 14 and Billy Joe Saunders’ all-British Super-Middleweight World Title showdown with Martin Murray on December 4.

BBC Sport Boxing Correspondent, Mike Costello said: “We were there for Anthony Joshua’s redemption mission in Saudi Arabia last December and we’ll be back at ringside for his first fight in more than a year. With Billy Joe Saunders also back in action and Katie Taylor topping a bill featuring three women’s World Title fights, we’ve rarely featured a more hectic spell of boxing on 5 Live. Joshua’s showdown against Kubrat Pulev closes out an unprecedented run of fights in British Heavyweight boxing and it all begins at The SSE Arena, Wembley tonight.”  

Matchroom Boxing CEO, Frank Smith said: “Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora kicks off a busy schedule as we close out a difficult year in style, and I’m delighted that Mike Costello and the team at BBC Radio 5 Live will be broadcasting tonight’s huge Heavyweight clash, as well as Katie Taylor’s Lightweight World Title fight with Miriam Gutierrez on November 14, Billy Joe Saunders’ all-British Super-Middleweight World Title showdown with Martin Murray on December 4 and Anthony Joshua’s mandatory defence against Kubrat Pulev on December 12.”

See below for a breakdown of the fights within the BBC deal with Matchroom Boxing:

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora – Saturday 31st Oct (live coverage from 10.30pm)

Katie Taylor vs. Miriam Gutierrez – Sat 14th Nov

Billy Joe Saunders vs. Martin Murray – Fri 4th Dec

Anthony Joshua vs. Kubrat Pulev – Sat 12th Dec

Live coverage of each fight will be available on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds.

17:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS FACEBOOK

10 x 2 mins vacant Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight Title 
AMY TIMLIN 8st 8lbs 8oz v CARLY SKELLY 8st 7lbs 8oz
(Southam)                             (Liverpool)

Followed by

18:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS BOX OFFICE

10 x 3 mins Bantamweight contest  
KASH FAROOQ 8st 8lbs 6ozv  MARTIN TECUAPETLA 8st 10lbs 8oz         
(Glasgow)                                    (Mexico)

followed by

6 x 2 mins Super-Bantamweight contest 
RAMLA ALI 8st 12lbs 12oz v EVA HUBMEYER 9st 2lbs 8oz
(Bethnal Green)                      (Germany)

followed by

12 x 3 mins vacant EBU European Cruiserweight Title 
TOMMY MCCARTHY 14st 3lbs 8oz v BILAL LAGGOUNE 14st 3lbs 8oz
(Belfast)                                                (Belgium)

followed by

10 x 2 mins vacant WBO Middleweight World Title
SAVANNAH MARSHALL 11st 5lbs 4oz v HANNAH RANKIN 11st 4lbs 4oz
(Hartlepool)                                                (Glasgow)

followed by

12 x 3 mins IBF Lightweight World Title Final Eliminator
LEE SELBY 9st 8lbs 12ozv GEORGE KAMBOSOS JR 9st 8lbs 12oz
(Wales)                                   (Australia)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBO Intercontinental Heavyweight Title
OLEKSANDR USYK 15st 7lbs 4ozv DEREK CHISORA 18st 3lbs 8oz
(Ukraine)                                              (Finchley)

LAS VEGAS, NV (October 30, 2020) – Undefeated WBC lightweight world champion Devin “The Dream” Haney (24-0, 15 KOs), will return to the ring on November 7, 2020, against former 2004 Olympic Gold Medalist and two-time world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa (30-3, 18 KOs).

Haney vs. Gamboa is a 12-round world title fight taking place at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, and will be the main event on a highly anticipated Matchroom USA card in association with Devin Haney Promotions, broadcast on DAZN.

Here is what Devin Haney, the WBC Lightweight Champion, had to say ahead of his fight with Gamboa as he wraps up his final day of training camp in Las Vegas.

On his recent training camp in Las Vegas.

“I stay in the gym, I basically live in the gym, so once camp begins, I put my all into training. I do not want to be outworked, and I am driven by those around me. I am extremely focused right now. I’m going to be the face of boxing.”

On returning after his shoulder injury.

“No athlete wants to ever be injured. I took the time I needed to, listened to the doctors, and let my body rest. One good thing from the social distancing and stay-at-home orders was it occurred during the time I was recovering so I was able to be fully rested once the gyms reopened. I am now 100% and better than ever, you will see on fight night.”

On his matchup with Yuriorkis Gamboa.

“Gamboa has done a lot in the sport, and the fact that he gave a lot of fighters tough fights, says a lot about him. I want to prove a point in this bout that a lot of people are not mentioning my name amongst the best in the world, and I am looking to change that by putting forth a performance against Gamboa that no one has ever seen before. I respect Gamboa as a fighter, but in the ring, I will have no respect for him at all. In the ring he is my enemy.

On what a spectacular win means for your career.

“Obviously, a win gives me my 2nd world title defense which is very important to me. Title defenses shows a lot about what kind of fighter you really are. I don’t care how you won it or who you won it from…can you defend the world title against all challengers? That’s what I represent as a throwback champion. You can have a strategy to get there but when you become a champion you become a target. Tank Davis, Teofimo Lopez and Ryan Garcia are all great potential opponents for me. I’d rather fight sooner than later but they have to feel the same way about me. I have a goal to be the first billionaire boxer, and to do that I have to put forth billion-dollar performances. That’s exactly what I’m going to do on November 7th in Miami.”

•     Naoya Inoue 117.7 lbs vs. Jason Moloney 117.9 lbs 
(Inoue’s WBA/IBF/Ring Magazine Bantamweight World Titles — 12 Rounds)
 Judges/Referee: Patricia Morse Jarman, Max De Luca and Tim Cheatham / Kenny Bayless

•    Ewa Brodnicka 130.1 lbs vs. Mikaela Mayer 129.8 lbs 
(WBO Female Junior Lightweight World Title — 10 Rounds)
Judges/Referee: Steve Weisfeld, Dave Moretti and Lisa Giampa / Celestino Ruiz
* Brodnicka loses belt on the scale. Mayer is still eligible to win the world title

(ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT)

•   Robson Conceição 128.8 lbs vs. Louie Coria 128.6 lbs 
(Junior Lightweight— 10 Rounds)

•    Julian Rodriguez 142.6 lbs vs. Jose “Piston” López 142.3 lbs 
(Junior Welterweight — 10 Rounds)

•    Jared Anderson 246.1 lbs vs. Luis Eduardo Pena 229.6 lbs 
(Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

•    Andy Hiraoka 140.9 lbs vs. Rickey Edwards 140.7 lbs 
(Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

NEW YORK – October 30, 2020 – Three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz shared how their children motivate them to fight to continue to provide the things that they never had growing up as they near their SHOWTIME PPV main event showdown this Saturday, October 31 from Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

With their highly anticipated showdown taking place on Halloween night, each fighter reflected on how the holiday is drastically different for their children than their own experience growing up.

“I want my daughter to always have the best of everything, because I didn’t have the opportunity for that when I was growing up,” said Davis. “Halloween was always fun even though we didn’t have much, but now with my daughter it gives me a whole new perspective on it and I just want to spoil her with anything she wants.”

“We never really had money for costumes when I was a kid,” said Santa Cruz. “Now I like the really scary, realistic costumes. I’m really proud to see how happy my kids are in their costumes, and of course when they get their candy.”

Davis, who showed off his Halloween spirit before his 2017 fight against Liam Walsh by entering the ring in full Michael Jackson “Thriller” garb, and again in 2019 against Hugo Ruiz when he was accompanied by “Thriller” style “zombie” dancers, takes his motivation from his two-year-old daughter Gervanni.

“It’s great motivation stepping into the ring knowing that what I’m doing is going to provide for my family,” said Davis. “When I see her happy dressed up for Halloween or even her birthday, it just makes me smile and know that all the hard work and sacrifice in the gym is worth it.”

A self-professed fan of Snickers, Kit-Kats and Reese’s when he’s not in training, Santa Cruz’s three children, Alan, Luna and Delilah, provide him with a constant drive that sustains Santa Cruz during grueling training sessions.

“Everything I do is to give them what I didn’t have as a child,” said Santa Cruz. “I know that my father sacrificed and did the best he could for us, so now it’s my turn to do the same for my children. Every extra round in the gym gives me more opportunity to make them happy, so that makes it easier to always give 100% every day.”

Davis vs. Santa Cruz is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions, GTD Promotions and Santa Cruz Boxing Club. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. The Alamodome has implemented a comprehensive health and safety plan to protect against the spread of the coronavirus. All fans attending the event will be screened upon entry and are required to wear a mask as well as follow social distancing guidelines. Tickets will be distributed in seat blocks known as “pods” to maintain distance between groups not from the same party. For more information, visit Alamodome.com.

ABOUT DAVIS VS. SANTA CRUZ
Davis vs. Santa Cruz will see three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz battle for the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight Championships headlining a SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, October 31 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

The stacked undercard will feature unbeaten San Antonio native and WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios defending his title against hard-hitting Ryan “Cowboy” Karl in the co-main event and former super lightweight world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis will take on unbeaten contender Juan Heráldez in a 10-round showdown. In the telecast opener, lightweight contenders Isaac Cruz and Diego Magdaleno will battle in an IBF title eliminator bout.

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

WBA Super Featherweight / WBA Lightweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Gervonta Davis – 129 ¾ lbs.

Leo Santa Cruz – 129 ½ lbs.

Referee: Rafael Ramos; Judges: Glenn Feldman (Conn.), Alejandro Rochin (Calif.), David Sutherland (Okla.)

WBA Super Lightweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Mario Barrios – 139 ½ lbs.

Ryan Karl – 140 lbs.

Referee: Luis Pabon; Judges: Ruben Carrion (Texas), Wilfredo Esperon (Texas), Jose Roberto Torres (Puerto Rico)

Super Lightweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Regis Prograis – 141 ½ lbs.*

Juan Heraldez – 139 ½ lbs.

*Prograis failed to make weight at the 140-pound limit and the fighters have agreed to fight at a higher weight.

Referee: Rafael Ramos; Judges: Gregorio Alvarez (Texas), Joel Elizondo (Texas), Ellis Johnson (Texas)

IBF Lightweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Isaac Cruz – 132 lbs.

Diego Magdaleno – 134 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Mark Calo-oy; Judges: Joel Elizondo (Texas), Ellis Johnson (Texas), Rafael Ramos (Texas)

The announce team for the SHOWTIME PPV telecast is comprised of the most experienced and decorated boxing team on television. Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer is the host. Versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo handles blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and four-time world champion Abner Mares. Two Hall of Famers round out the telecast team: boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer, and world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. In addition, former world champion Raúl Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP).

The executive producer of the SHOWTIME PPV telecast is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. The director is Bob Dunphy, son of legendary Hall of Famer Don Dunphy. The pair has been guiding SHOWTIME Sports’ flagship series SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® since its inception in 1986 and has produced the three highest-grossing pay-per-view events of all time (Mayweather-Pacquiao, Mayweather-McGregor, Mayweather-Canelo).

ABOUT DAVIS VS. SANTA CRUZ

Davis vs. Santa Cruz will see three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz battle for the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight Championships headlining a SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, October 31 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

The stacked undercard will feature unbeaten San Antonio native and WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios defending his title against hard-hitting Ryan “Cowboy” Karl in the co-main event and former super lightweight world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis will take on unbeaten contender Juan Heraldez in a 10-round showdown. In the telecast opener, lightweight contenders Isaac Cruz and Diego Magdaleno will battle in an IBF title eliminator bout.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions, GTD Promotions and Santa Cruz Boxing Club. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. The Alamodome has implemented a comprehensive health and safety plan to protect against the spread of the coronavirus. All fans attending the event will be screened upon entry and are required to wear a mask as well as follow social distancing guidelines. Tickets will be distributed in seat blocks known as “pods” to maintain distance between groups not from the same party. For more information, visit Alamodome.com.

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

Las Vegas – UFC^® continues its run of events in Las Vegas with a thrilling light heavyweight bout with title implications, as No. 1 ranked contender Thiago Santos squares off with No. 3 Glover Teixeira. Also, former UFC heavyweight champion Andrei Arlovski looks to halt the momentum of rising Tanner Boser.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+^®: SANTOS vs. TEIXEIRA will take place Saturday, November 7 from UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The main card will be available on ESPN2 and in Spanish on ESPN Deportes, and simulcast on ESPN+ in English and Spanish, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick off exclusively on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

Santos (21-7, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) aims to continue building his reputation as the most aggressive striker in the light heavyweight division and cement himself as the next challenger for the belt. After moving up to 205 pounds in 2018, Santos quickly rose through the rankings with devastating knockout wins over Eryk Anders, Jimi Manuwa and newly crowned champion Jan Blachowicz. He now looks to snap the win streak of Teixeira with another signature performance.

Tied for the most finishes in UFC light heavyweight history, Teixeira (31-7, fighting out of Danbury, Conn.) intends to continue his impressive run and secure his second shot at UFC gold. A member of the UFC roster since 2012, Teixeira established himself as one of the best in the world with wins over former champions Quinton Jackson and Rashad Evans, as well as former title challenger Anthony Smith. He now seeks to take sole ownership of the light heavyweight stoppage record by finishing Santos. 

Arlovski (29-19 2NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) hopes to continue his winning ways in 2020 with a vintage KO win. A 21-year MMA veteran who has fought the top names in MMA, Arlovski holds impressive victories over former UFC champions Fabricio Werdum, Frank Mir and Tim Sylvia. Arlovski now aims to stop another budding contender and prove his among the top heavyweights on the planet.

Boser (19-6-1, fighting out of Edmonton, Alta., Canada) is on the cusp of cracking the competitive heavyweight rankings. At talented karate striker, he turned heads this summer with a pair of sensational KO victories against Raphael Pessoa and Philipe Lins over the span of one month. Boser now looks to take out his first former UFC champion to continue his ascent up the ladder.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 15 ranked middleweight contender Ian Heinisch (14-3, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.) faces Brendan Allen (15-3, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) in a meeting of Dana White’s Contender Series veterans
• No. 4 ranked women’s strawweight contender Claudia Gadelha (18-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) goes for her third consecutive win when she meets surging No. 8 Yan Xiaonan (12-1 1 NC, fighting out of Beijing, China)
• Trevin Giles (12-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas) faces Bevon Lewis (7-2, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) in what promises to be an entertaining middleweight bout
• Raoni Barcelos (15-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) locks horns with fellow bantamweight prospect Khalid Taha (13-2 1NC, fighting out of Dortmund, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany)
• Max Griffin (15-8, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) welcomes UFC newcomer Ramiz Brahimaj (8-2, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) at welterweight
• Darren Elkins (25-9, fighting out of Portage, Ind.) aims to return to the win column when he takes on tough Eduardo Garagorri (13-1, fighting out of Rivera, Uruguay)
• Undefeated heavyweight prospect Alexandr Romanov (12-0, fighting out of Comrat City, Republic of Moldova) aims to continue his winning ways against Marcos Rogerio De Lima (17-7-1, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil)
• Felipe Colares (9-2, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) meets Gustavo Lopez (11-5, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) in a battle of bantamweight hopefuls

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

###

About UFC^®

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

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to 8.5 million subscribers, offering fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) at ESPNplus.com, ESPN.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported) — all for just $12.99/month.

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment enterprise, features more than 50 assets – nine U.S. television networks, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, ESPN International, ESPN The Magazine and more.  ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

INDIO, CALIF. (Oct. 30, 2020): Golden Boy is proud to announce that the highly anticipated Garcia vs. Campbell matchup is headed to Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The event will feature a stacked undercard of world class action, including a 12-round rematch between WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Rene Alvarado (32-8, 21 KOs) and Roger “The Kid” Gutierrez (24-3-1, 20 KOs) in the co-main event.

The fights will take place on Saturday, Dec. 5 and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

“More than three years after Rene began his own title run by derailing Roger’s highly touted American debut, the tables have been turned and ‘The Kid’ is now gunning for Gemelo’s world title,” said Eric Gomez, President of Golden Boy. “Both of these guys know what it’s like to come back from defeat, and fans will be treated to them leaving it all in the ring.”

Alvarado is a 31-year-old world champion who has earned everything the hard way, facing some of the toughest featherweights and super featherweight of the last few years. The native of Managua, Nicaragua has a resume that includes wins against Robinson “Robin Hood Castellanos, Jayson “La Maravilla” Velez, Danis “Djingis Khan” Shafikov, Carlos “The Solution” Morales and Andrew “El Chango” Cancio, the man he beat to become a world champion. Alvarado hopes to retain his title in a rematch of his 2017 bout against Gutierrez.

“I’m ready to defend my title on December 5,” said Rene Alvarado. “I’ll be prepared to deliver a tremendous combat to all fans so they can enjoy a bit of distraction during these difficult times. And although the crisis we all currently face is something that will be different in this rematch, the end result will be the same. We will get the victory at any cost to retain the title.”

In 2017, Gutierrez was on the fast track to a world title challenge until running into Alvarado, who gave him his first defeat. Since then, the Venezuelan boxer has had to learn on the job in tough bouts against Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr. and Oscar Duarte. However, 2019 changed everything for him when he stopped then-undefeated contender Rocky Hernandez. Now, after two additional wins, the 25-year-old is finally having his first world title shot and against the man who first derailed his efforts.

“I want to thank God above all else,” said Roger Gutierrez. “I also want to thank the World Boxing Association and Golden Boy Promotions. I will dedicate this fight to my mom who is currently battling cancer. This victory will be for her. I am ready to avenge my first loss in this world title challenge. From Maracaibo [Venezuela] to the world—let’s do it!”

Before the co-main event, Franchon “The Heavy-Hitting Diva” Crews-Dezurn (6-1, 2 KOs) of Baltimore, Md. will defend her unified WBC and WBO Super Middleweight World Titles in a 10-round clash.

Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (14-0-1, 9 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada will defend his NABF Welterweight Title in a scheduled 10-round fight.

2016 Olympian Raul “Cougar” Curiel (8-0, 6 KOs) of Tampico, Mexico and Ferdinand “Lucky Boy” Kerobyan (14-1, 9 KOs) of North Hollywood, Calif. will clash in a 10-round battle between two Golden Boy welterweights.

Sean Garcia (5-0, 2 KOs) of Victorville, Calif. will open the night in a six-round lightweight fight.

Opponents for Crews-Dezurn, Cobbs and Garcia will be announced shortly.

Garcia vs. Campbell is a 12-round fight for the interim WBC Lightweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Matchroom Boxing. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.” The fight will take place on Dec. 5 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN in more than 200 countries and territories around the world.

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

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

Team Sauerland regret to announce that due to the latest Coronavirus developments, the November 14th card in Wolfsburg, headlined by Patrick Wojcicki’s IBF final eliminator with Patrice Volny, has had to be postponed. A new date has not yet been set as further developments are awaited.

Promoter Nisse Sauerland: “We are very sorry for everyone involved, but we as the organizers cannot take the risk. We considered the event without spectators, but at the moment it is too risky, we have to live up to our responsibility in times of massively increasing numbers of infections “.

Sauerland has not yet been able to announce when exactly the fight will be rescheduled: “Here, too, it is important to monitor the developments surrounding the Coronavirus and continue to seek further resolutions and ordinances. In any case, we want to hold an event in Wolfsburg as soon as possible and hope that many fans will be allowed in the Congress Park again ”.

Warwick, RI (October 29, 2020) – On what felt like the coldest night of the year in Rhode Island, New England’s top fighters brought the heat Thursday in a short, but sweet, pro boxing showcase at “The Tent.”

Fan-favorite Toka Kahn-Clary of Providence scored a second-round knockout victory in the main event and highly-decorated welterweight James Perella won for the sixth time in as many fights as CES Boxing ended its eight-month layoff live from the Crowne Plaza Hotel on UFC FIGHT PASS®.

The event featured four bouts – a fifth, Khiry Todd versus Ryan Pino, was scratched earlier in the day with Todd suffering from a non-COVID illness – highlighted by Kahn’s triumphant return following 14 months away from boxing. The fighters braved the elements, working through bitter cold and a driving wind, with no fans in attendance as many of them returned to action for the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic in early March. For CES, Thursday was the promotion’s first live event since late February, a layoff sparked by the cancelation of its March 12 show on the morning of fight night.

Kahn, now 28-2 with 19 knockouts, faced Colombian challenger Jonathan Perez (38-26), whom he defeated via knockout in California in 2015, in the eight-round main event. Nicknamed “Popeye,” Perez entered Thursday’s rematch with a chip on his shoulder and a loaded resume that featured 30 wins by knockout in addition to five bouts against undefeated opponents over the past three years.

After a slow opening round, Kahn picked up the pace and floored Perez with an uppercut midway through the second. Perez tried to beat the count, but fell face-first back into the canvas, forcing referee Danny Schiavone to wave it off at the 1:49 mark. Kahn has now won three in a row since suffering his second career defeat in 2018, a loss that prompted him to jump from featherweight to super featherweight.

The 28-year-old Perella (6-0) – a decorated amateur, aspiring law student, and part-time actor – received much-needed on-the-job training in a tough bout against “The Mexican Muscle” Antonio Castillo (1-2). Perella had stopped four of his previous five opponents, but Castillo – a three-time CES MMA veteran in addition to his acumen as a boxer – kept Perella off guard with slick head movement and effective footwork. Perella adjusted on the fly, using his reach to keep his distance and stepping back to create space to launch his effective left hook. Castillo kept charging, but Perella won by a score of 40-36 on all three scorecards.

Like Perella, up-and-coming middleweight prospect Francis Hogan (3-0, 3 KOs) of Weymouth, MA, made his CES and FIGHT PASS debut, stopping Washington’s Charon Spain (2-14-2) at the 2:39 mark of the fourth round of a scheduled six-round bout. Only 20 years of age, Hogan was originally supposed to face 14-2 veteran Jeyson Minda in an eight-round showdown, but Minda was not cleared medically, prompting Spain to step to the plate on short notice.

A veteran of 68 pro bouts between MMA and boxing, Spain was a worthy adversary through three rounds until Hogan began to let his hands go in the fourth, scoring a knockdown with a straight left hand midway through the round. Spain tried to survive the closing seconds, but Hogan poured it on, forcing Schiavone to step in and stop the bout at the 2:39 mark.

In the opening bout, rising prospect Elijah Peixoto (3-0, 2 KOs) of East Providence, RI, made quick work of Kris Berberich (0-2), earning the stoppage with lethal body work at 2:42 of the opening round. Fighting for the first time since August of 2019, Peixoto won 119 bouts as an amateur and has each of his last two fights since signing a long-term promotional agreement with CES.

Visit CESBoxing.com for more information, and follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing promoted its first event in 1992 headlined by future Champion Sucra Ray Oliveira. Over the years, CES has earned the reputation as the Heart and Soul of boxing with a rich history that includes the development of former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada, plus Vinny Paz and Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series. Through the years, Jimmy Burchfield Sr has earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, and 2011 inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Providence-Warwick is the first choice of those seeking the best in accommodations, convenience, service and sophistication in Rhode Island. A nine-time winner of the Intercontinental Hotel Group’s Torchbearer Award, one of the most prestigious accolades in the hotel industry, the Crowne Plaza Hotel has 266 guestrooms and 45,000 square feet of meeting space. Whether you’re a business traveler seeking respite from a long flight, a family on vacation visiting nearby Newport, a trade association holding its annual convention, or a young couple planning a wedding, the Crowne Plaza is ready to satisfy your every need. Located 10 minutes from downtown Providence and two miles from T.F. Green Airport on a spacious landscaped 17-acre site featuring abundant, free parking, the Crowne Plaza Hotel is prepared to treat you like royalty.

LAS VEGAS (October 29, 2020) — Naoya “Monster” Inoue, the Japanese three-weight world champion and pound-for-pound talent, is two days away from his Las Vegas debut. He will defend his WBA/IBF/Ring Magazine bantamweight world titles against Australia’s Jason Moloney (ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET), his first bout since his 2019 Fight of the Year victory last November against Nonito Donaire.

For as much noise as Inoue (19-0, 16 KOs) makes inside the ring, he is quiet and measured behind the microphone. Inoue and Moloney (21-1, 18 KOs) met face-to-face for the first time Thursday at the final press conference, along with the co-main event featuring WBO female junior lightweight world champion Ewa Brodnicka (19-0, 2 KOs) and mandatory challenger Mikaela Mayer (13-0, 5 KOs). 

This is what they had to say.

Naoya Inoue

“This past year, my injuries have healed very well. With COVID-19, it’s has been tough training, but it has been the same for everyone else. We still have to go out there and perform at a high level. I see him as a high-level, all-around fighter.”

“There are a lot of expectations, and I want to meet those expectations. I take those big expectations, and I use them as motivation and power to keep getting better with every fight.”

Jason Moloney

“I think that everything happens for a reason, and that loss that I suffered against {Emmanuel} Rodriguez showed me how much I want this. I will not let myself lose again. On Saturday night, nothing will stop me, and I will become the best bantamweight in the world.”

“I know I can win this fight. I don’t care if some people think that I can’t win this fight. I believe, and I know that I can win it.”

“He has never faced a fighter as relentless as me. I’m going to take him to places he has never been before.”

“I can’t wait. There has been a lot of talk about ‘The Monster’ coming to Las Vegas, but people haven’t seen what I can do inside those ropes.”Mikaela Mayer

“I feel great. I feel like I’m deserving. I’ve been the No. 1 contender for a long time. This fight will put me a step {closer to} my goal.”

“I think that she is concerned. She has never been in the ring with someone like me.”

“This is a team effort. We have been together for a long time. It started 11 years ago with the Olympic trials. It will mean a lot to me to make {head trainer} Al {Mitchell} proud on Saturday night.” Ewa Brodnicka

“She is the No.1 contender, but I think this fight was going to happen anyway.”

“I brought my belt just to show it to you. Look at it. I didn’t bring this belt to give it to you. That’s not happening. For sure.”

“I have a lot of things against me. But I’m ready. I don’t care if she says that she doesn’t respect me. She makes a lot of mistakes, and I’m going to take advantage of all of them.”SATURDAY’S CARD

ESPN+, Approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Naoya Inoue vs. Jason Moloney, 12 rounds, Inoue’s WBA/IBF/Ring Magazine bantamweight world titles

Ewa Brodnicka vs. Mikaela Mayer, 10 rounds, Brodnicka’s WBO female junior lightweight world title

ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT

Robson Conceição vs. Louie Coria, 10 rounds, junior lightweight

Andres Cortes vs. George Acosta, 8 rounds, junior lightweight

Julian Rodriguez vs. Jose “Piston” Lopez, 10 rounds, junior welterweight

Andy Hiraoka vs. Rickey Edwards, 8 rounds, junior welterweight

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to 8.5 million subscribers, offering fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) at ESPNplus.com, ESPN.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported) — all for just $12.99/month.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – October 29, 2020 – Three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz squared off at a final press conference Thursday to preview their highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) main event showdown taking place this Saturday, October 31 from Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Two of the sport’s most electrifying fighters, Davis and Santa Cruz will battle for the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight Championships in a matchup that pits the prodigious power of Davis against the unrelenting pressure of Santa Cruz.

Davis vs. Santa Cruz is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions, GTD Promotions and Santa Cruz Boxing Club. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. The Alamodome has implemented a comprehensive health and safety plan to protect against the spread of the coronavirus. All fans attending the event will be screened upon entry and are required to wear a mask as well as follow social distancing guidelines. Tickets will be distributed in seat blocks known as “pods” to maintain distance between groups not from the same party. For more information, visit Alamodome.com.

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

GERVONTA DAVIS

“My team and I decided to move our camp to Las Vegas so we could have a perfect camp. We spent 15 weeks in training, so I’m well prepared. Hopefully Leo is well prepared and we give the fans what they want to see.

“We know Leo is going to come with a lot of punches and I’m going to be explosive. It’s all about giving fans a treat. I’m grateful to be in this position and I’m ready. Saturday night is going to be a memorable night.

“Not to take anything from him, Yuriorkis Gamboa was just trying to survive against me. It’s harder to get punches off when someone isn’t trying to bring the fight. I know Leo is going to come to fight. I think this performance is going to put me up to the next level.

“I don’t think I have to knock him out, I just have to go out there and be great. Forget everything else, I just have to go out there and show everyone that I’m the top guy in the boxing world. That’s my main goal.

“Michael Jordan used to read the paper and do what they said he couldn’t do. That’s what I’m doing. I have to prove that I’m the baddest man in the sport on Saturday night.

“Leo is going to come to fight and it’s just about me stepping up and doing what I do best. You can see the potential in a fighter from the outside, but you have to see it actually come out in a fight to believe it. That’s the position I’m in. Everyone knows I’m great, I just have to show it.

“Leo has shown that he’s a top tier fighter, and he’s going up against an explosive, powerful fighter like myself. I think the winner should be in the top 10 of the pound-for-pound list.

“Floyd Mayweather has just told me to stay focused despite everything that comes with pay-per-view week. I have to get the job done first, but also do everything that comes with being the next pay-per-view star.

“I’m one of those fighters that knows how to focus when I have something big in front of me. None of the great fighters before me have frozen up when it’s crunch time. I’ve always been able to focus when big things are on the line. That’s what I did for this training camp.

“I’m not really focused on anyone who isn’t Leo Santa Cruz. I can’t overlook Leo. As far as any other fighter out there, they just don’t matter to me right now. I’ll prove it along the way. This is one step closer to proving the point I want to prove.”

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“This is what I’ve always dreamed of. When I was a little boy, I wanted to be on this stage. I’m living that dream and I’m very happy and excited. I never thought I’d accomplish it. I thought it was like winning the lottery. But thanks to the fans, I’m here where I’m at.

“I’m facing the best fighter in the division. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best. I have to go against the best fighter. I wanted to challenge myself. I know this is a dangerous fight for me, but I want to test myself.

“We’ve both suffered and been through a lot to get here. Neither of us wants to go back to where we started. So I know we’re both going to give a great fight to the fans.

“I have the heart of a Mexican warrior. My dad has told me to fight a smart fight, but even though he’s going to say that, there’s a good chance I end up brawling with him at times. No matter what, we’re going to find a way to beat him.

“I don’t really worry about being the underdog. Everyone has their opinion. It’s my job to go out there and prove the doubters wrong. I trained hard to go out there and do that Saturday.

“Gervonta is the best opponent I’ve faced. He’s the strongest fighter I’ll have faced. The Abner Mares and Carl Frampton fights were great experience for this kind of fight. I learned a lot from those four fights and since then I’ve learned a lot more.

“It would mean the world to me to become a five-division champion. It would be another dream come true. I would put the Santa Cruz last name right up there with the best.

“Gervonta is a big guy and I know he’s going to come hit hard. But I’ve trained with bigger guys all camp and I’ve been able to take everything thrown at me.

“The fans want you to go and make it a back and forth war. I know against Gervonta I have to fight smart. I’m going to just try as hard as I can to listen to my father’s advice.

“I definitely took this fight to quiet the critics. People said I didn’t want to fight the big names. So I went after the biggest challenge in the division and that’s Gervonta Davis.

“I leave the opinions to the fans and media. My job is to get the win and give the fans a great fight. I’m going to give it my best and leave it all in the ring.”

CALVIN FORD, Davis’ Trainer

“Camp has been great. It was unbelievable. I really appreciate the work that he put in. I can’t wait to see Tank in the ring. I’m looking forward to great performances from both fighters.

“‘Tank’ accomplished a lot of things that I’ve asked him to do, but this is the pinnacle of them all right here. Both of these families have walked the same line with different trails. They both have a chance to become greats with this win.

“Every time I look at ‘Tank’ now, I flash back to those younger years in the gym with him as a child. Now he’s the man I’ve always looked at him to be. He’s a family man, business man and a wonderful fighter. It’s amazing to see one of my boys all grown up.”

JOSÉ SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’s Father and Trainer

“We had a really good training camp and understand the importance of this fight. Leo is fully prepared for this fight on Saturday and I expect him to have a great performance.

“I’m very thankful to be here. I’m so happy to be here with my son for such a big fight and be able to guide him and help him accomplish his dream.

“We know that Davis is a very strong and accomplished fighter. But Leo has just used it to motivate him in the gym every day and you’ll be able to see that on Saturday.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“One of the biggest reasons I love boxing is because we get to witness young men, like ‘Tank’ Davis and Leo Santa Cruz, develop and mature right in front of our eyes. This is our ninth fight with ‘Tank’ and 13th with Leo. We have seen them mature as fighters and we have seen them mature as young men. We’ve seen them struggle, sweat, and triumph. We’ve seen them become fathers.”

“I remember the first time I met ‘Tank’, it was April 2016 in Washington, D.C. He was on the non-televised undercard of an Adrien Broner fight. He had already fought, he came over during the telecast and Floyd introduced him. I remember his very words, ‘This is my young fighter. Watch out for this kid.’ And we’ve been watching ever since.

“I remember the first time I met Leo was in June 2012. Shortly before his first world title fight. He was a very humble, quiet, soft spoken, almost shy young men. Very different from the guy that I saw in the ring about 48 hours after that. The point is, we’ve been along for the journey of these young men.

“They have been battling the odds, literally since birth. We were lucky enough to spend time with them during ALL ACCESS. They opened their hearts, their minds, and themselves to share their stories. The thing I’ve heard most is that the difficulty about this fight is not whether people want to watch it or whether they’re going to buy it, it’s who they’re going to root for. Because if you know these young men’s stories, what they’ve gone through, and what they’ve experienced, it is incredible.

“The bottom line is in these two young men we have two of the most accomplished and popular young fighters in the sport today. Leo has been a champion almost consistently since 2012. ‘Tank’ had sellouts or near sellouts in Los Angeles, Baltimore and Atlanta, just last year. We have got these two accomplished young men fighting on Saturday night. You have to respect their journey, where they come from, and respect the teams that come around him.

“We do know what’s going to happen on Saturday night. Leo is going to come into the ring, throw a lot of punches and show an activity rate that’s unlike just about anybody else in the sport. ‘Tank’ is going to show the power, speed, and the athleticism that has made him one of the fastest rising young stars that we’ve seen in sport in some time. Beyond that, it will be up to them, just like it’s been up to them for their entire lives.”

ABOUT DAVIS VS. SANTA CRUZ
Davis vs. Santa Cruz will see three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz battle for the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight Championships headlining a SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, October 31 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

The stacked undercard will feature unbeaten San Antonio native and WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios defending his title against hard-hitting Ryan “Cowboy” Karl in the co-main event and former super lightweight world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis will take on unbeaten contender Juan Heráldez in a 10-round showdown. In the telecast opener, lightweight contenders Isaac Cruz and Diego Magdaleno will battle in an IBF title eliminator bout.

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

This Friday, October 30, at 12:30 pm EST (9:30 am PT), Salita Promotions returns with another night of livestreamed professional boxing on their popular YOUTUBE CHANNEL, free of charge and live from the Soviet Wings Sport Palace in Moscow, Russia.

The exciting six-fight card, presented by Shamo Boxing, will feature a 10-round main-event battle for the WBA Asia South Middleweight Championship between 2017 Russian National Amateur Champion Shamil Khataev (4-0, 1 KO) from Urus-Martan, Russia, and Moscow via Alaverdi, Armenia’s Grachya Margaryan (7-1-1, 5 KOs).

“I’m excited to provide a free, easily accessible platform for fight fans in the US and around the world,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “Boxing fans will experience international fight-night atmosphere and see upcoming world-class talent that most have not seen before. On October 30, tune in on your phone, iPad or computer and check out some great fights.”

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

“I’m thrilled to be able to help bring high-quality international boxing to audiences around the world,” said Erdman. “Salita Promotions is providing a tremendous resource for the hardcore boxing fans out there and is making a lot of great Russian fighters accessible to an audience that might not have otherwise seen them. The last Shamo Boxing show we broadcast on the Salita Promotions page produced one of the Upsets of the Year, and I can’t wait to call what comes next.”

In chief supporting action will be Saint Petersburg, Russia-based southpaw Evgeny Terentiev (15-3, 7 KOs) taking on active Russian veteran Varazdat Chernikov (11-16, 5 KOs) in a middleweight eight-rounder.

In a six-round super middleweight bout, Moscow’s Oleg “Hard” Misiura (5-0, 4 KOs) will test himself against fellow Russian Timur Pashaliev (1-1-2, 1 KO). Saint Petersburg’s Mikhail Ostroumov (1-0, 1 KO) will throw down with Angarsk, Russia via Pruzhany, Belarus’ Vasily Shtyk (1-1, 1 KO).

Also scheduled is an eight-round women’s lightweight battle between “Kazakhstan’s Sexiest Athlete,” once-beaten Firuza Sharipova (11-1, 6 KOs) and Serbian veteran Sara Marjanovic (7-7, 3 KOs) of Belgrade.

To open the action, Moscow’s Artem Ivanov (3-1-1, 1 KO) will face Kyzyl, Russia’s Artysh Lopsan (2-1-1, 1 KO) over eight tough rounds.

The livestream will be the second of its kind for Salita Promotions’ ever-expanding YOUTUBE CHANNEL, that already offers thousands of hours of past fights from many of the biggest names in boxing, free of charge, and attracts more than 5 million monthly views with 110,000 subscribers with upwards of 200,000 daily viewers.

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.

London, 29^th October 2020 – Channel 5 has announced an agreement with SHOWTIME Sports and Premier Boxing Champions to broadcast World Championship Boxing live in the UK.

Channel 5 will air the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight world titles fight between three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division world champion Leo Santa Cruz. The boxers will square off for the world titles live from Texas, USA. The event will begin on Channel 5 on 1^st November at 2am GMT Sunday morning, with the main event fighters anticipated to make the walk just before 4am GMT.

The action-packed card will start with a 10 round super lightweight bout between Regis Prograis & Juan Heraldez. Followed by a WBA Super Lightweight world title fight between undefeated Mario Barrios & Ryan Karl.

“We at Channel 5 are so proud to present one of the fights of the year in partnership with our ViacomCBS colleagues SHOWTIME. This latest matchup is testament to our commitment as a broadcaster to bring the British public world class boxing live and free,” said Caj Sohal, Head of Sports at Channel 5.

“We are proud to partner with Channel 5 to deliver this great event to the legions of passionate boxing fans across the UK,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Showtime Sports and Event Programming. “This is a prime opportunity to work with a corporate partner to distribute high-impact sports content across our global platforms. Saturday night’s card is stacked with intriguing fights, and the main event is one of the most anticipated matchups of the year. We have a boxer with one of the sport’s highest knockout ratios in “Tank” Davis facing one of the busiest, highest pressure fighters in the sport in Leo Santa Cruz. The UK boxing fans deserved an outlet to watch this exciting fight card live, and thanks to Channel 5, they will be able to do so.”

The fight will also be made available on Channel 5’s streaming service My5 from 9am Sunday morning, as well as on ViacomCBS-owned Pluto TV in the UK.

Nutley, NJ (October 29, 2020) – This Saturday night in Sinora, Mexico, junior middleweight prospect Derrick Colemon Jr. will be back in action as he takes on 46-fight veteran Lisandro de los Santons in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

Colemon (11-1, 8 KOs) of Detroit has been chomping at the bit to get back in the ring following his only professional blemish that took place on February 14th against Joseph Jackson in a bout that was televises live on ShoBox: The New Generation on SHOWTIME.

Soon after that, the Covid-19 Pandemic struck, and Colemon has been eager to get back in the winners circle.

“It was hard at first to train because all of the gyms were closed, but I stayed in shape, I ran outside, worked out so when the gyms were open, I was already in good shape, said the 21 year-Colemon.

In the loss the Jackson, Colemon took it as a great learning experience and he knows that he is young enough to be able to shake off and become a world champion.

“I learned that I beat myself that night. I over-trained, but I have no excuses. There have been a lot of world champions that suffered losses early in their career I was 20 years-old, now 21, and I was fighting an opponent who was 15-0. There are not many fighters my age willing to take that step up. I believe in my ability, and I know big things are in store for me.

“I am ready to redeem myself, and the fans did not get to see the real me that night. I am back now. I think after three more fights, I will be right where I need to be, and I will be primed for a big 2021.”

Colemon Jr. is promoted by GH3 Promotions, and is managed by Sheer Sports Management.

Warwick, RI (October 28, 2020) – Super featherweight sensation Toka Kahn-Clary of Providence and Lynn, MA, welterweight Khiry Todd step back into the ring Thursday night at “The Tent” at the Crowne Plaza Hotel to highlight CES Boxing’s long-awaited return to live action.

Kahn (27-2, 18 KOs) faces Colombian challenger Jonathan Perez (38-25, 30 KOs) in the eight-round main event, airing live on UFC FIGHT PASS ®, combat sports’ No. 1 streaming platform. Making his first appearance since signing a long-term promotional agreement with CES, the hard-hitting Todd (10-1, 8 KOs) battles Puerto Rican challenger Ryan Pino (8-5-2, 4 KOs) in the six-round co-main event.

There will be no fans in attendance, but the event will stream live on FIGHT PASS beginning at 7 pm ET with the broadcast duo of CES Boxing publicist and play-by-play announcer Michael Parente and former light welterweight champion and color commentator “Sucra” Ray Oliveira.

Visit FIGHT PASS for more information on subscription packages and how to access to the service live on fight night. Stay up to date on all future events at CESBoxing.com, and follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING. Listed below are the complete results from Wednesday’s weigh-in.

WEIGH-IN RESULTS
TOKA KAHN-CLARY
Providence, RI
27-2, 18 KOs
131
JONATHAN PEREZ
Barranquilla, Colombia
38-25, 30 KOs
132
KHIRY TODD
Lynn, MA
10-1, 8 KOs
148
RYAN PINO
San Juan, Puerto Rico
8-5-2, 4 KOs
149
JAMES PERELLA
Mansfield, MA
5-0, 4 KOs
145

ANTONIO CASTILLO
Massillon, OH
1-1
147

FRANCIS HOGAN
Boston, MA
2-0, 2 KOs
157

CHARON SPAIN
Spokane, WA
2-13-2, 1 KO
160

ELIJAH PEIXOTO
East Providence, RI
2-0, 1 KO
137

KRISTOPHER BERBERICH
Wasilla, AK
0-1
145

INFORMATION

CES Boxing promoted its first event in 1992 headlined by future Champion Sucra Ray Oliveira. Over the years, CES has earned the reputation as the Heart and Soul of boxing with a rich history that includes the development of former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada, plus Vinny Paz and Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series. Through the years, Jimmy Burchfield Sr has earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, and 2011 inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combat sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel Providence-Warwick is the first choice of those seeking the best in accommodations, convenience, service and sophistication in Rhode Island. A nine-time winner of the Intercontinental Hotel Group’s Torchbearer Award, one of the most prestigious accolades in the hotel industry, the Crowne Plaza Hotel has 266 guestrooms and 45,000 square feet of meeting space. Whether you’re a business traveler seeking respite from a long flight, a family on vacation visiting nearby Newport, a trade association holding its annual convention, or a young couple planning a wedding, the Crowne Plaza is ready to satisfy your every need. Located 10 minutes from downtown Providence and two miles from T.F. Green Airport on a spacious landscaped 17-acre site featuring abundant, free parking, the Crowne Plaza Hotel is prepared to treat you like royalty.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – October 28, 2020 – Fighters competing on the Gervonta Davis vs. Leo Santa Cruz SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) undercard previewed their respective matchups at a final press conference Wednesday before they square off this Saturday, October 31 from Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The press conference featured unbeaten San Antonio native and WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and hard-hitting Ryan “Cowboy” Karl, who meet in the co-main event, plus former super lightweight world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis and unbeaten contender Juan Heraldez, who square off in in a 10-round showdown, and lightweight contenders Isaac Cruz and Diego Magdaleno, who battle in an IBF title eliminator to kick off the pay-per-view.

Davis vs. Santa Cruz is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions, GTD Promotions and Santa Cruz Boxing Club. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. The Alamodome has implemented a comprehensive health and safety plan to protect against the spread of the coronavirus. All fans attending the event will be screened upon entry and are required to wear a mask as well as follow social distancing guidelines. Tickets will be distributed in seat blocks known as “pods” to maintain distance between groups not from the same party. For more information, visit Alamodome.com.

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

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m super excited to be back home for my first title defense. Come Saturday night, it’s going to be an explosive night of boxing throughout this whole card. I’m trying to steal the show in the co-main event.

“I don’t feel any pressure. I’m fighting at home and defending my title, so it’s just a dream come true. You have an Aztec warrior and a Texas cowboy going at it. I couldn’t imagine a better co-main event.

“We had another great camp with Virgil Hunter in California. I’m excited to continue to show everyone why I’m the best in my division.

“Ryan definitely comes to fight. He’s known for being a pressure fighter. I’ve always considered myself a boxer-puncher. I’ll try to use my jab and fight from the outside as much as I can. But I’ve been known to brawl on the inside as well. It’s going to end up being a fan-friendly fight.

“I’m a complete fighter. I have the speed and power. I also have height and length. I carry my power throughout twelve rounds. I’m a dangerous fighter from the opening bell until the very end.

“You’re going to see a completely different fighter on Saturday night. My last fight I showed the warrior that I am, and during the championship rounds, I made big things happen. Saturday night, I’m going to show everyone how I’ve improved.”

RYAN KARL

“You’re going to see a great fight on Saturday. We are going to steal the show, because I’ve come prepared. I’m at my very best and it’s going to make me victorious. We put the work in. I’m going to seize this opportunity now that I have it.

“I’m not worried about getting a knockout. I just have to be victorious and become champion. Nothing else matters.

“I’m healthy and injury free now. It’s been over two years since I could say that. It’s a new start in a way. I’m listening better and my corner is the best it’s ever been. I expect it to be a very explosive and exciting fight.

“I’ve known Barrios since the amateurs, but it never crossed my mind that we’d fight because he was much smaller than me then. He’s matured and gotten a lot bigger now, so I’m anticipating he’ll bring the fight to me on Saturday.

“I come to fight, I’m rough and ready and I’m coming to win any way possible. It doesn’t matter to me. I’ve never been in a boring fight. Win, lose or draw, you’ll always get your money’s worth.”

REGIS PROGRAIS

“I’m excited to be here. Training has been amazing. I just want to go out there and prove that I’m still the best at 140 pounds. I was number one for a long time. This is the first step toward getting my belts back. I’ve been training differently than ever before. I’m really living like a fighter right now. I just have to go out and do what I know I have to do.

“I need a stoppage or a shutout. That’s what I’m looking for. He’s an okay fighter. I don’t want to degrade him too much, because I just feel like I’m the better fighter.

“This is my first step toward proving I’m still the best. You sit and go over the fight a million times in your head and it usually never goes that way. I’m just going to do me and show the world that I’m still here. I train too hard not to be number one. I don’t want to be behind anybody.

“We’re all going to do our thing Saturday night. It’s a huge stacked card. Order SHOWTIME PPV and watch me mess Heraldez up.

“I’m just taking it one fight at a time right now. The landscape in boxing changes all the time. I’m not worried about anything else other than Juan Heraldez.”

JUAN HERALDEZ

“I’m going to go out there and show everyone what the sweet science is all about. It’s about hitting and not getting hit. That’s my game plan.

“I believe that my style is exactly what boxing is all about. I have more advantages in my game than he does. I’m going to make sure that everyone sees it on Saturday night.

“Prograis had his chance to be elite, now it’s my time. He fought Taylor and lost. I didn’t really even watch more than a couple of rounds of that fight though, because I’m a completely different fighter than him.

“Prograis is a step up on paper, but all that goes out the window once we’re in the ring. It’s about boxing skills and toughness. I’ve been boxing all my life, so I don’t think I’m stepping up to him.

“I can box and I can punch. There’s not going to be anything else that needs to be said or done. This fight is going to prove to everyone that I have great boxing skills. It’s going to put me in a position to earn respect, win belts and make more money.

“I don’t think he’s going to be able to land clean shots on me because of my defense. You’ll have to ask him afterwards how hard I punch. I know his eye was really swollen after his last fight. Plan on seeing him look the same on Saturday.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m very happy to be here in San Antonio. I’ve been doing a lot of sparring for this fight, especially against southpaws. I’ve sparred over 200 rounds so I will be at my very best on Saturday night.

“I came to fight, I came to steal the show, and I came for the victory. I don’t need to talk too much. I can talk with my fists on Saturday.

“I’m very prepared to give Diego Magdaleno a great fight. I’m a classic Mexican fighter who keeps coming forward. I throw a lot of punches and I don’t break down after the early rounds. I love to give a good show.

“I’m facing a good fighter with a lot of experience. He’s had a lot of tough fights, but we came very well prepared to take the victory with us.

“After this fight, people will not be able to forget my name. I’m ready to keep giving more and more in the future.”

DIEGO MAGDALENO

“I’ve fought in Texas so many times and I love fighting in front of these real fight fans. This started back in February when I kicked off 2020 with a roar. I was one of the last fights with a crowd, and now I’m back here with a crowd again. I’m relishing in the energy of this event.

“It’s my birthday and I’ve never felt this great. The whole world is right in front of me and I just have to go out and grab it.

“I’m bringing something huge on Saturday. You’ve never seen Diego on this much ‘fuego’ before. I never stopped believing in myself and that’s why I’m here today.

“I know I have to stay focused and stick to the game plan. I’m going to be true to myself. I have to be smart and everything else will be taken care of.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Since we first started Mayweather Promotions we’ve promoted over 20 pay-per-view fights, and I have to say that from top to bottom, this is one of the most stacked undercards we’ve had. That will bring nothing but excitement for the fans come Saturday.

“The opening fight is an outstanding lightweight fight with Isaac Cruz taking on the always exciting Diego Magdaleno in a title eliminator in one of boxing’s hottest divisions.

“Then we roll into former world champion Regis Prograis, who is always in entertaining bouts, taking on Mayweather Promotions’ own unbeaten Juan Heraldez. These guys have gone back and forth during the promotion. Heraldez has told me he thinks Regis is an average fighter, and Regis has talked his trash too. They get to settle it on Saturday night. This has the potential to steal the show.

“The co-main event is an all-Texas showdown with Mario Barrios against Ryan Karl. This will definitely be an exciting bout. They both have highly respected trainers in Virgil Hunter and Ronnie Shields. So you know they will be extremely well prepared. From top to bottom we have a very entertaining undercard, so make sure to tune-in Saturday night.”

ABOUT DAVIS VS. SANTA CRUZ
Davis vs. Santa Cruz will see three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz battle for the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight Championships headlining a SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, October 31 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

The stacked undercard will feature unbeaten San Antonio native and WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios defending his title against hard-hitting Ryan “Cowboy” Karl in the co-main event and former super lightweight world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis will take on unbeaten contender Juan Heráldez in a 10-round showdown. In the telecast opener, lightweight contenders Isaac Cruz and Diego Magdaleno will battle in an IBF title eliminator bout.

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

Pomona, CA (October 28, 2020) Forgoing the start of his professional career, 18-year-old amateur standout Tito Mercado of Pomona, CA has elected to seek the Gold Medal at the 2021 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, it was announced today.

“I’m just turning 19 this week so I’ve decided to represent Nicaragua next summer in Toyko at the Olympic Games with the absolute goal of winning the Gold Medal and then turning professional after that,” said the highly touted Mercado who was rumored to be entering the paid ranks this past summer.

“My Dad and I sorted through the different opportunities to turn professional and we decided to fight in the 2021 Olympics first. He was born in Nicaragua so it makes the most sense especially with how cloudy things had gotten with Team USA,” said Mercado, who will compete in the 138lb./63 kg division.

“It’s a great opportunity for me, I’ll stay busy training, sparring and learning over the next few months.” Among the sparring partners Mercado has worked with include Nicaraguan Boxing Legend Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez, Azat Hovhannisyan, Ruben Villa and Adam Lopez. Tito has also spent a wealth of time sparring and training at Freddie Roach’s famed Wild Card Boxing Gym.

Mercado is trained by his father, Ernesto Mercado at the G2G Boxing Gym in Pomona, CA. “This is the best plan for Tito, he’s a very smart young man who is getting better every day training. The timing wasn’t right for him to turn professional this summer but we look forward to him fighting in the Olympics in 2021 with an eye towards turning professional after winning the Gold Medal.”

Among the honors Mercado has received as an amateur include; First Places Finishes in the 2016, 2017 and 2018 National Golden Gloves, First Place in the 2018 Youth National Championships, First Place in the 2018 Youth Open Championships, First Place in the 2018 Eastern Regional Open, First Place in the 2016 Junior Open Championships and First Place at the 2019 Team USA Last Chance Qualifier.

Tito also earned the Gold Medal at the 2019 Emil Jechev Memorial Tournament. With over 20 National Championship First Place Finishes, Tito is one of the most decorated amateur fighters this century.

Video Credit/Team Mercado

Social Media –Tito Mercado

Twitter: @RealTitoMercado

Instagram: @RealTitoMercado

Facebook: @Tito.Mercado

LAS VEGAS (October 28, 2020) — Australian contender Jason Moloney is going “monster hunting” Saturday evening (ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET) when he faces WBA/IBF/Ring Magazine bantamweight world champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue (19-0, 16 KOs) from the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble.

In the co-feature, female boxing’s brightest star, 2016 U.S. Olympian Mikaela Mayer, will challenge WBO junior lightweight world champion Ewa Brodnicka. Mayer (13-0, 5 KOs), the betting favorite, will seek to dethrone a seasoned champion who has made five title defenses. Moloney (21-1, 18 KOs), meanwhile, is confident he can upset the odds and topple the three-division world champion and one of the sport’s most devastating punchers.

Moloney, Mayer and Top Rank chairman Bob Arum met the media for a fight week Zoom press conference. This is what they had to say.

Bob Arum

“When {Mikaela} came to Top Rank, the one thing she told us is she wanted to fight for a world championship. It took some time, but she was grounded in the professional ranks. She’s performed tremendously, and now on Oct. 31, she has the opportunity to win a world championship. And we believe she has the experience now, and the ability, to bring home to the United States a world championship.”

“When Mikaela gives the orders, you step to attention and try to get {the world title fight} done. We’re very proud of Mikaela. She’s comported herself tremendously, both in and out of the ring, and she’s going to be a great world champion and a great credit to women’s boxing.”

Mikaela Mayer

“I have been calling out the champs for a while. It’s been something I feel like I’ve been ready for for a few fights, but now in hindsight looking back, I think everything worked out perfectly. Like Bob Arum said, I’ve had some really great fights, and I’ve really been able to settle in to my pro style. I’m more ready than ever to take on these world champions. I feel like I’m the best in this division.”

“I am honored that Top Rank has really moved me in the way that they have. It’s not just me, but believing in women’s boxing. I think that they’ve moved me perfectly. I think that they’ve put me on some amazing cards, and it’s given me the platform I’ve wanted.”

“I’m peaking as an athlete. I’m really coming into my own. And so it’s really not about Ewa. It’s really about me. They always train me like I’m going up against somebody amazing, and I always have to be like, ‘You guys, don’t worry, relax. I got this.’ But that’s what good coaches do. They’re looking at everything Ewa Brodnicka does really well and then they’re acting as if she does it better than how she actually does it.”

“I think {Brodnicka} is hyping up the fight, talking a big game, but I don’t think she believes anything that she’s saying. I think she knows I’m a better fighter. She knows I’m fast. She knows I’m strong. She knows I’m more technically sound. She’s just playing into the hype.”

“I absolutely hope that after I get this belt from Brodnicka that Eddie Hearn and {WBC champion} Terri Harper will be willing to make this fight happen with me, so we can unify these belts. Because that’s what they told me: ‘Go get a belt, Mikaela, and then we’ll talk about it.’ So, Bob, hold them to their word when it comes to that.”

Jason Moloney

“Every fighter should want to fight the best. That’s why we’re in this sport. My dream and my goal is to be the best bantamweight in the world, and the only way to make that happen is to beat Inoue. I’ve been working towards this opportunity, and have wanted this opportunity, for a long time. It’s finally here. I’m completely confident, and I know I’ve got what it takes to beat him. Saturday night’s the opportunity to prove it. I can’t wait. I’m ready to go.”

“I love being the underdog, and I love proving people wrong and going out there and, as I’ve said before, shocking the world. I know a lot of people don’t give me a chance in this fight, and that just gives me extra motivation and extra fire in the belly to go out there and show people what can be done. People place some of these fighters like Inoue and Lomachenko on this pedestal and think that they’re unbeatable, but they’re not. We’re all human. We all got two arms and two legs, and everyone has weaknesses. Everybody can be beaten.”

“Me and {twin brother} Andrew walked into the boxing gym together for our first day 17 years ago. There’s been a lot of hard work and sacrifices, and we’ve grown together every step of the way, and rode the roller coaster together. A lot of ups and a lot of downs and a lot of hard work. A lot of blood, sweat and tears, and in three weeks’ time, we can get on a plane together with four world titles and go home to Australia and celebrate together with each other, but also with our friends and family and everyone who supported us since day one.”SATURDAY’S CARD

ESPN+, Approximately 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

Naoya Inoue vs. Jason Moloney, 12 rounds, Inoue’s WBA/IBF/Ring Magazine bantamweight world titles

Ewa Brodnicka vs. Mikaela Mayer, 10 rounds, Brodnicka’s WBO female junior lightweight world title

ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT

Robson Conceição vs. Luis Coria, 10 rounds, junior lightweight

Andres Cortes vs. George Acosta, 8 rounds, junior lightweight

Julian Rodriguez vs. Jose Eduardo Lopez Rodriguez, 10 rounds, junior welterweight

Andy Hiraoka vs. Rickey Edwards, 8 rounds, junior welterweight

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to 8.5 million subscribers, offering fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $5.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) at ESPNplus.com, ESPN.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices). It is also available as part of The Disney Bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, ESPN+ and Hulu (ad-supported) — all for just $12.99/month.

George Kambosos Jr bids to secure the mandatory spot for Teofimo Lopez’s IBF Lightweight crown against former World Champion Lee Selby at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday October 31, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in all of its nine markets including the U.S.

‘Ferocious’ heads into this weekend’s chief-support bout with an unblemished 18-0 (10 KOs) record, last seen outscoring former IBF ruler Mickey Bey on two of the judges’ scorecards at Madison Square Garden IN New York.

The 27-year-old Australian plans on making a huge statement in his first fight in the UK and certainly hasn’t been short of confidence ever since the clash with Selby was first announced for May in Cardiff before the sporting world was brought to a halt by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’ve got to prove to everyone what I’m about, I want the world to know,” said Kambosos Jr. “I fought a former World Champion in my last fight, and I am straight away back in with another former World Champion, then I’m coming for Lopez. I’m hungry and ambitious, he’s had his time, it’s my time now.

“Out with the old and in with the new, this is a young man’s sport. The young hungry lion is here. It’s not only the freshness, it’s everything that I’m bringing. The footwork, the power, the speed and the ferociousness are all going to trouble Lee.

“It has been a long time coming but I’ve stayed patient, put in the work and I’m ready. I’m always in the gym and I have been able to work on things I don’t usually work on. I’ve become a better and more explosive fighter which I will showcase in this fight.”

Despite their differing opinions on who won the rounds they shared in sparring at the famous Wildcard Boxing Gym in California, Sydney’s Kambosos Jr says it’s in the past now and all that matters is winning this weekend. 

“He knows what happened in the sparring, it was three years ago,” added Kambosos Jr. “This is 12 rounds! I had so many Welsh fans messaging me, so I’m disappointed that no one will be in there to witness the statement I’m going to make. As long as it’s me and him in the ring that’s all that matters. There are no ifs or buts, this is it, I’m a savage right now.

“I had the boy running all over the gym, he was just trying to use his little jab. Every time I touched him; he was shaking in his boots. I got the upper hand back then, so he needs to understand what I am going to do him now. I’ve left no stone unturned in this camp. Enjoy these next couple of days Lee, you will retire after this fight!”

Selby vs. Kambosos Jr is part of a huge night of boxing as pound-for-pound star Oleksandr Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs) faces his first real Heavyweight test in Derek Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs), Heavyweight fan favourite Dave Allen (18-5-2, 15 KOs) returns against American KO artist Christopher Lovejoy (19-0, 19 KOs), Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (8-0, 6 KOs) meets Glasgow’s Hannah Rankin (9-4, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBO Middleweight World Title, Belfast’s Tommy McCarthy (16-2, 8 KOs) clashes with Belgium’s Bilal Laggoune (25-1-2, 14 KOs) for the vacant European Cruiserweight Title, Kash Farooq (13-1, 6 KOs) makes his Matchroom debut against Martin Tecuapetla (15-2-4, 10 KOs) and Amy Timlin (4-0) faces off with Carly Skelly (3-0) for the vacant Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight Title.

NEW YORK – October 27, 2020 – Showtime Sports Documentary Films today announced it will air MACHO: THE HECTOR CAMACHO STORY, an unflinching look at the remarkable life, storied career and unsolved murder of one of boxing’s greatest showmen. Premiering Friday, December 4 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME, the documentary debuts just two weeks after the eighth anniversary of Camacho’s fatal shooting in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.

For the first time on film, MACHO: THE HECTOR CAMACHO STORY offers a thorough examination of an unlikely sports hero. The film celebrates Camacho’s sublime boxing skills and the unbridled charisma that brought Spanish Harlem and Puerto Rican culture to the center of the sports world. Through rare and revealing interviews with his mother, Maria Matias, sisters, wife Amy and son Hector Jr., the documentary also delves into the legendary fighter’s troubled mind and spirit, his battle with addiction and the inner turmoil that ultimately lead to his demise – a mysterious double homicide on a roadside in November 2012.

“Macho Camacho’s charisma, boxing prowess and flamboyant style made him a Puerto Rican sports icon, and, for a time, the biggest star in boxing. When he stepped into the ring, everyone knew it was ‘Macho Time,’” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “This film reveals the complex highs and lows of Hector’s life: the joy he brought so many, as well as the demons that he battled privately behind the scenes. Through it all, however, Camacho brought boxing a level of showmanship and flamboyance that was far ahead of his time.”

Born in Bayamon and raised in the projects of Spanish Harlem in the 1970s, Camacho ascended to the pinnacle of boxing. His dynamic speed, footwork and power combined with his unparalleled showmanship helped usher in a new era of modern boxing and made him a member of an exclusive club of fighters who transcended the sport. The film tells the story of Camacho’s rise from a troubled youth to a multi-division world champion. MACHO: THE HECTOR CAMACHO STORY revisits Camacho’s unforgettable performances against legends such as Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard and Julio Cesar Chavez, and pivotal career turning points in bouts with Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini and beloved New England fighter Vinny Pazienza. Through all the ups and downs and wins and losses, Camacho’s story of resilience is inspiring, though, in the end, there was one opponent he could never beat – himself.

MACHO: THE HECTOR CAMACHO STORY isdirected by two-time Emmy^® Award winner Eric Drath (Assault in the Ring and No Más, 30 for 30), and produced by Drath and Danielle Naassana, both of Live Star Entertainment. Sixteen-time Emmy Award winner Aaron Cohen served as writer and consulting producer.

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

TOMMY FURY ADMITS his recent gruelling training sessions with SugarHill Steward have “opened his eyes” and insists he is excited to show the world the improvements he’s made to his game.

SugarHill, nephew of legendary ‘Kronk Gym’ trainer Emmanuel Steward, is credited with having helped mastermind Tyson Fury’s astonishing victory over Deontay Wilder in their rematch earlier this year.

With ‘The Gypsy King’ readying himself for a first homecoming defence of his WBC title in December, SugarHill was flown in to help oversee his camp and the younger Fury wasted no time in making sure he got some training time with the American.

“(I learnt) a lot of things,” said Tommy. “When you train with Sugar he strips you down to nothing and makes you feel like you’ve never boxed before in your entire life. That is how I was feeling. I felt demoralised. Every little thing I was doing, from my feet upwards, he was stopping me, correcting me – saying this is how you do this, this is how you do that.

“To spend a few weeks with him, just going through the same stuff, it’s really opened my eyes.

“Sugar is a world class technician, Tyson is not going to go wrong with him. No one can go wrong with SugarHill as he’s just got all that knowledge.”

Under the watchful eye of dad Big John Fury, Tommy returned to the ring after a stint on ITV’s Love Island in December last year. On that night he scored a huge first round KO and the 22-year-old Light Heavyweight can’t wait to show off the improvements he’s made with both his dad and SugarHill.

“My only aim now, when I get in that ring, is to show everybody that I’ve got different aspects to my game. I know it’s very early days (in my career), but I’ve not shown a glimmer of what I can do.

“Anyone can go in the ring and throw some punches, but on November 13th i’m going to show that i’ve got a lot in my game to go all the way. I’m going to box and move, I’m going to show my power and I just can’t wait to get in there now.”

Tommy returns on another huge night of boxing on BT Sport on November 13th – a show that will be headlined by the British Middleweight title bout between Battersea’s Denzel Bentley and Oldham’s Mark Heffron.

The two domestic Middleweights first met on September 12th, battling to a rare unanimous draw in what many consider to be the best fight of post-Lockdown British boxing.

Fury admits he’s happy to be sharing the bill on November 13th with such a highly anticipated scrap and like boxing fans up and down the country he’s struggling to pick a winner.

“I couldn’t really pick a winner last time, but I definitely can’t wait for the rematch!” he said, adding “and how much better is it that the British title is on the line?”

“That changes things. Whoever wins this is going to be British champion and that’s obviously a very big thing. I think it’s going to make for ten times more of a fight… you’re going to see the best out of both men.

Despite being the sibling of boxing’s biggest star, Tommy is ambitious in his own right and, seeing inspiration in the likes of Denzel Bentley and Mark Heffron, wants to be fighting for a British title before long.

Another Light Heavyweight showcase on November 13th is up first though, and Fury is pretty clear what fans can expect.
Asked his plans for his November foe, Fury laughed: “A big dirty knockout.

“You’re going to see thrills, it’s going to be a good fight. I can’t wait. I want to show everything I’ve been working on in the gym and I’m beaming with confidence. It’s going to be a good show, so definitely tune in.”

Tommy Fury returns on the bill of Heffron vs Bentley 2 – Friday November 13th, live on BT Sport.

Tijuana, Mexico (October 27, 2020) -Toscano Boxing Promotions returns Saturday November 21, 2020 from The Historic Jai Alai Forum in Tijuana, Mexico

The bouts will be streamed live on www.globalsportsstreaming.com and www.bestinboxing.com

In the main event, hard hitting Manuel Jaimes (10-0, 9 KOs) of Stockton, California will face fellow undefeated Cristian Vazquez in an eight-round bout for the WBC Youth Lightweight World Title

The Quiet, Hard Grinding of Jaimes has paid off. This 20 year-old has earned himself the opportunity to take the next step onto the elite prospect ladder. Manuel and his Trainer Steve Salas have been in non-stop camp since early 2018. He debuted on July 20, of that year in Stockton, and has since built a strong foundation as a disciplined, dedicated, and focused fighter. The young Jaimes looks to bring the 1st of the Coveted Green Belts back to his hometown of Stockton on November 21st.

Jaimes has quality knockout wins over Lorenzo Antonio Juarez (5-0) and his last bout where he destroyed Francisco Rubio (9-1-1) with a highlight reel 5th round stoppage on September 5th in Tijuana.

19 year-old Vazquez (15-0-1, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico is a three-year professional, and is coming off his most impressive outing as he took out Russell Fiore (24-2-1) in six-round on September 12th in Mexico.

In a six-round lightweight bout Jose “El Karma” Alvarado (7-0, 4 KOs) of Rosarito, Mexico will take on an opponent to be named.

Alvarado, 22, who is looking to put on an impressive performance, said “I’m always ready for whoever you put In front of me, Soy Mexicano (I am a Mexican).

Rolling hard into the ring will be undefeated super lightweight Wade Jones lll (5-0, 3 KOs) of Stockton Ca. Jones and “Team Nasty” will look to continue sharpening the razor-sharp skills of this young and strong assassin when he takes on Juan Ramon Bernal (8-7-1, 5 KOs) of Tijuana. Jones is coming off his 1st round body smashing knockout over Alberto Guzman Ante on September 5th in Tijuana.

The 23 year-old Jones will look to continue the momentum on November 21st

Damian El Samurai Sosa (15-1, 8 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico will be in action as he takes on Ernesto Olvera (11-4-1, 3 KOs) of Durango, Mexico in a 10-round super welterweight fight.

The 23 year-old Sosa is looking to make a statement against a fellow veteran fighter,.

Sosa has wins over fighters Alan Carillo (6-0); Giovanny Gonzalez (6-1), and his last bout when he took out undefeated Angel Beltran Villa (9-0) in seven rounds on June 26th

More fights and Start time will be announced shortly

The fights will be streamed live on the following Platforms

bestinboxing.com, globalsportsstreaming.com; Fight Hub TV on Youtube; Abrams Boxing on Youtube; www.15rounds.com www.abramsboxing.com

LAS VEGAS (October 27, 2020) – California heavyweight Alexander “The Great” Alexander (18-2-1, 16 KOs), whose only pro losses have been to world champions, will have the opportunity of his boxing career on November 7th, when he takes on 2-time world title challenger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz (26 KOs).

King Kong vs. Alexander The Great will air live on FOX television, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT, in the 10-round main event on the Premier Boxing Champions card from Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles.

“Ortiz is a 2-time world title challenger who has a lot of experience,” Flores said. “I’m young, hungry, driven and determined to win. Beating Ortiz is a life-changing opportunity that I won’t be taking for granted.”

“Ortiz is a great fighter,” Flores’ promoter Keith Veltre (RJJ Boxing CEO/co-founder) added, “but I think he may regret fighting a hungry lion like Flores. Fighting the elite of the heavyweight division has never been a problem for Alexander, whose only two losses have been to world champions. He gained invaluable experience in those fights that he’ll take into the ring against Oritz. We’d like to thank Team Ortiz, PBC and FOX for this tremendous opportunity.”

The 30-year-old Flores, fighting out of Roland Heights (CA), lost in 2014 to world champions Charles Martin and Joseph Parker four years later Flores captured the World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth World heavyweight title in 2012 with a fifth-round stoppage of Joey Montoya.

Cuba-born Ortiz, who lives in Miami, has lost only twice, both times to world champion Deontay Wilder. Ortiz, a 41-year-old southpaw, has defeated a litany of world-class heavyweights during his 10 ½ year pro career, including Christian Hammer, Travis Kaufman, Malik Scott, Tony Thompson, Bryan Jennings, Monte Barrett, Lateef Kayode and Epifanio Mendoza. As an amateur, Ortiz had a reported 349-19 record, and he captured a gold medal at the 2006 Cuban National Championships.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /KeithVeltre
Twitter: @Keith_Veltre, @RoyjonesJRfa @RoyJonesJrOfficial,
Instagram: @KeithVeltre, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

Kash Farooq is promising to bring something different to the table when he finally makes his highly anticipated Matchroom debut against Mexico’s Martin Tecuapetla at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday October 31, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in all of its nine markets including the U.S.

The Pakistan-born Glasgow-based talent won the British Bantamweight Title in his home city in September 2018, blitzing Jamie Wilson inside the first three minutes to claim the prestigious Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt.

Three successful defences followed before 24-year-old Farooq took on his toughest challenge yet in the form of fellow Scot Lee McGregor, losing a contentious split decision after a pulsating 12 rounder.

Despite suffering his first professional defeat, Farooq’s stock grew and he believes having the time off to reflect and work on improvements will leave him in good stead moving forward.

“I’ve kept myself active and busy during this period,” said Farooq. “Whether it’s running or doing circuits in a park, anything to keep myself active. I was hoping to box maybe three times this year but it’s just one of those things, I am just grateful to be back in the ring.

“Having the break off has helped me. I’ve come back fitter, stronger and healthier so it has been good. I have taken a step back and worked on a few things, slowing things down and working on punches and technique. When you have a fight date sometimes you forget about working on the other things which is what I’ve been able to do.”

Looking to get himself back in the picture for titles, Farooq is confident he is on the perfect platform to do so, and that the future of Scottish boxing will be bolstered with his eye-catching performance on the huge Usyk-Chisora bill.

“All I want to do is continue to improve,” added Farooq. “I’ve had great sparring in preparation for this fight. This is the next stage of my career, it’s time to go to the next level. I’m looking forward to making my Matchroom debut in this next chapter.

“Theres a good few Scottish fighters at the moment, all with good TV contracts, and I believe any of them could be topping a bill at The Hydro soon. I’m good friends with Hannah Rankin and I will be cheering her on this weekend. She came up the hard way like me without any amateur background, it’s a tough fight against Marshall but she is more than capable of winning it.

“I think everyone can expect a fan-friendly style with a lot of head movement. I’m bringing something different, that’s what people can expect!”

Farooq vs. Tecuapetla is part of a huge night of action topped by Oleksandr Usyk’s (17-0, 13 KOs) Heavyweight showdown with Derek Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs), Lee Selby (28-2, 9 KOs) and George Kambosos Jr (18-0, 10 KOs) meet in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Lightweight World Title, Heavyweight fan favourite Dave Allen (18-5-2, 15 KOs) returns against America’s KO artist Christopher Lovejoy (19-0, 19 KOs), Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (8-0, 6 KOs) takes on Glasgow’s Hannah Rankin (9-4, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBO Middleweight World Title, Belfast’s Tommy McCarthy (16-2, 8 KOs) meets Belgium’s Bilal Laggoune (25-1-2, 14 KOs) for the vacant European Cruiserweight Title and Amy Timlin (4-0) faces off with Carly Skelly (3-0) for the vacant Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight Title.

ORANGE, CA (October 26, 2020) – Thompson Boxing Promotions had some unforeseen changes occur to its next edition of 3.2.1 Boxing but will still feature three exciting-and-compelling bouts.

The free stream will air live on Sunday, November 1st, 2020, on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube pages. 3.2.1. Boxing will take place at the Omega Products International Event Center in Corona, CA, and will start at 4:00 p.m. PT / 7:00 p.m. ET.

Originally the main event was set to be Michael “The West Texas Warrior” Dutchover (14-1, 10 KOs), of Midland, TX, taking on Manuel “La Tormenta” Mendez (16-7-3, 11 KOs), but an outside of the ring accident has removed Mendez from the bout.

The new 8-round main event will be a battle of undefeated lightweights as Israel “Bad Ways” Mercado (8-0, 7 KOs), faces Mike Sanchez (6-0-1, 2 KOs), of Colton, Ca, in a bout in which someone’s “O” must go.

Mercado, who defeated Adrian Valdovinos (6-1-1, 5 KOs) in the Top Rank Summer Series, is looking to make a statement in this upcoming bout.

“I have worked my whole life to be showcased in a main event and now the opportunity is here,” said Mercado. “I have been training very hard and I am extremely focused on winning this bout and win impressively. As always, I’ll be gunning for a knockout. It’s go time!”

Sanchez, an undefeated southpaw, received a draw against Eric Mondragon (3-0-1, 2 KOs) in his last bout, but defeated Diego Elizondo, in Elizondo’s hometown of Reno, Nevada, last year.

“I am ready to let my hands go and put on a good show for Thompson Boxing,” said Sanchez. “People will talking about me after this fight. I haven’t had any easy fights and the road that I have been on has prepared me for my battle with Mercado.”

In the 6-round co-feature, welterweight Esteban “Stone Hands” Munoz (2-1, 2 KO), of San Bernardino, CA, takes on McArio DelCastillo (0-3), of Santa Monica, Ca.

Originally, Richard “Cool Breeze” Brewart Jr. (7-0, 3 KO) was set to face Louis Hernandez (8-0-1, 6 KOs), but Brewart was removed from the card due to an illness unrelated to COVID-19.

The opening bout will be a four-round super bantamweight fight as Szel Martinez (pro debut) will face Lazaro Vargas (pro debut) of Indio, CA, in a fight that promises to be explosive.

“Unforeseen events prevented us from having Michael on our main event, but we’re still putting together a solid card,” said promoter Ken Thompson. “Israel Mercado vs. Mike Sanchez promises to be and all-action battle, and the other two bouts will be great opportunities for the young fighters to showcase themselves.”

“We are ready for another installment of our 3.2.1 Boxing series,” said Alex Camponovo, Thompson Boxing’s general manager and creator of 3.2.1 Boxing. “We had to work hard to get this card put together, but we have a solid show with a tremendous main event. I expect everyone tuning in will be happy with the action inside the ring.”

Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer, while Jessica Rosales will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.

3.2.1 Boxing is sponsored by Thompson Building Materials, transforming spaces in beautiful places; Omega Products International, the leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Henry / Fortifiber, moisture system control as easy as 1,2,3; and Makita, rule the outdoors.

For more information, regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #321Boxing and #ThompsonBoxing.

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

NEW YORK (October 26, 2020) – Ryan “Cowboy” Karl is determined to take full advantage of the opportunity in front of him as he prepares to battle unbeaten WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios in the SHOWTIME PPV co-main event this Saturday, October 31 from Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“I’m not content just fighting for a title, I’ll be happy when I win the title,” said Karl. “This is everything that I’ve been working my whole life for. This moment is a huge opportunity for me. A lot of fighters never get this chance.”

The Milano, Texas native enters this fight on a three-bout winning streak, with all of those victories coming by stoppage. This run has come after Karl’s two losses came in a span of four fights from 2017 to 2018, an experience that provided valuable lessons for the 28-year-old.

“I learned to listen better to my corner,” said Karl. “I also learned to not take fights when you’re injured and not fully healed, as well as to not overlook people. I thought that I was so good that I could beat a good fighter when I was less than 100%. So, I’ve learned to not take my health for granted and that you have to be healthy enough to spar and prepare the right way.”

Karl’s winning streak was kicked off by him avenging one of his losses, as he scored a fifth-round knockout over Kevin Watts after suffering that same result in their first matchup. Most recently, Karl triumphed over Bergman Aguilar last November.

“I’ve always believed that I’d be a world champion,” said Karl. “We’ve had setbacks with injuries and other obstacles, but I’ve never doubted myself or thought that I couldn’t do it. I’m lucky to have strong family support as well, which has helped me keep the faith.”

In Karl’s corner is his longtime coach, the renowned Ronnie Shields, who has guided Karl throughout his pro career and during this training camp in the midst of a pandemic. Karl has been sparring with unbeaten Kent Cruz in preparation and has also been buoyed by being able to still be with his family during camp.

“Training camp is going great and we’re very happy with our progress,” said Karl. “It’s definitely different with my coaches wearing masks in the gym and being as cautious as we can be. But the fact that I’m still able to see my wife and my sons is great. My oldest son Jace is six and he’s doing online learning from home at the moment. And then I have a one-year-old son named Jack as well. So it’s great to be around them and my wife who’s due to have our daughter in December.

Karl and San Antonio’s Barrios are very familiar with each other dating back to their days competing in the same amateur tournaments in Texas. Despite their proximity, it was only in recent years, as Barrios moved up in weight, that Karl began to see him as a possible future opponent.

“Early on I didn’t think we’d ever fight because he was so small, but then I saw that he was moving up and I started thinking that he was tall enough that we might see him down the road,” said Karl. “I didn’t know him very well in the amateurs because he was a lot younger than me. Around the time that I turned pro I was 22 and Mario was only 18 then. He was just a lot smaller and younger than me.

“Mario has done a great job as a pro. His managers have built him up and gotten the right fights for him, fighting a lot of smaller guys. He has good power and he’s a good boxer. He does a lot of things well. I think that I’ll be his biggest opponent to date, but he’s handled his previous opponents well so far.”

The “Cowboy” has become known for his come forward style, one that he believes will create a memorable fight for the fans and end with him amongst the sport’s 140-pound elite on October 31.

“I’m not the type of fighter to go in there and wait a bunch of rounds to come on,” said Karl. “Everybody knows that I like to fight. I’m anticipating an exciting, competitive fight. This one definitely won’t be boring. I expect us to throw lots of punches and I’m in great shape, so that plays to my strengths.

“A win against Barrios puts me right there at the top with Josh Taylor and Jose Ramirez. So hopefully this will get me a chance at them and revitalize my career for the biggest and best fights.”

ABOUT DAVIS VS. SANTA CRUZ
Davis vs. Santa Cruz will see three-time world champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis and four-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz battle for the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight Championships headlining a SHOWTIME PPV Saturday, October 31 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas.

The stacked undercard will feature unbeaten San Antonio native and WBA Super Lightweight Champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios defending his title against hard-hitting Ryan “Cowboy” Karl in the co-main event and former super lightweight world champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis will take on unbeaten contender Juan Heráldez in a 10-round showdown. In the telecast opener, lightweight contenders Isaac Cruz and Diego Magdaleno will battle in an IBF title eliminator bout.

The event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions, GTD Promotions and Santa Cruz Boxing Club. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. The Alamodome has implemented a comprehensive health and safety plan to protect against the spread of the coronavirus. All fans attending the event will be screened upon entry and are required to wear a mask as well as follow social distancing guidelines. Tickets will be distributed in seat blocks known as “pods” to maintain distance between groups not from the same party. For more information, visit Alamodome.com.

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