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/.

NEW YORK (OCTOBER 26, 2020)– This past Friday night, Split-T Management’s Diego Pacheco remained undefeated by knocking out Juan Antonio Mendez in round two of a scheduled six-round super middleweight fight in Mexico City.

In round two, Pacheco dropped Mendez with a sweet uppercut and the fight was stopped immediately at 2:02,

Pacheco, 167.2 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 10-0 with eight knockouts. Mendez, 164.9 lbs of Mexico City is 12-3-2.

On the same card that was streamed live on DAZN, junior lightweight Otha Jones III fought to a disputed split-draw with undefeated Kevin Montiel.

Each fighter won a scorecard 58-56, while a 3rd card read even at 57-57.

Jones, who was a 21-time amateur National Champion, continues to show the willingness to fight take on top competition, and took on the undefeated Montiel as an opponent on just two days notice.

Jones, 130 lbs of Toledo, OH is 5-0-1. Montiel, 130 lbs of Mexico is 6-0-1.

Both Pacheco and Jones are promoted by Matchroom Boxing.

Los Angeles, CA (October 26, 2020) Undefeated Knockout Artist Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (18-0, 18 KOs), fighting on Friday, September 25 posted huge viewership numbers defending his WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Title on Grupo SIPSE TV with his sixth round knockout of Alejandro Davila, (21-2-2, 8 KOs), broadcast from the network’s studios ‘behind closed doors’ in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.

Said Mario Abraham of local promoter Max Boxing, “Bohachuk vs. Davila garnered one of the highest rated shows in the history of Grupo SIPSE TV. We are very happy with this high rating and look forward to Bohachuk coming back in the future.”

Bohachuk is promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions and Ural Boxing Promotions in addition to being trained by the renowned Manny Robles at his Legends Boxing Academy in Norwalk, CA.  The super welterweight power puncher is rated #8 by the IBF and #9 by the WBC.

“Serhii was very busy before the fight doing a wealth of publicity, particularly with the Mexican press. Fight fans in Mexico were very excited to see him fight and he entertained them with a dominant performance, stopping Davila in the sixth round,” said Tom Loeffler of 360 Promotions. “We look forward to Serhii fighting again soon and bringing him back to Mexico in the future.”

New York, NY (10/26/20) – The IMPACT Network, in conjunction with SMH Group, will present IMPACT Championship Boxing brought to you by T&K Boxing Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, featuring an exciting women’s world title fight between Kali Reis and Kandi Wyatt. The event takes place on Friday, November 6, from the St. Petersburg Clearwater Marriott, in St. Petersburg, FL, and will premiere on IMPACT Network, Saturday, November 7, at 10:30pm ET.

In the main event, Kali “KO Mequinonoag” Reis (16-7-1, 5 KOs), of Providence, RI, will meet Kandi “Krush” Wyatt (10-1, 3 KOs), of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, in a 10-round clash with the vacant WBA world female super lightweight title on the line. The winner of this high stakes battle could be in line for unification matches against IBF champion Mary McGee or WBO champion Christina Linardatou.

“I’m thrilled to collaborate with T&K Boxing Promotions and Steven Marcano to bring an exciting night of championship boxing to IMPACT Network’s wide-ranging audience,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Former world champion Kali Reis will take on highly skilled Canadian Kandi Wyatt for a vacant super lightweight world title and heavyweight slugger Elvis Garcia collides with Dell Long. Boxing fans will also get to see a pair of rising stars in action, including unbeaten Puerto Rican lightweight contender Victor Padilla and Sin City heavyweight Jeremiah Milton. The Reis-Wyatt title fight joins a string of significant female championship fights worldwide. I’m thrilled to have found a home for it on IMPACT Network.”

“We are pleased to be back on November 6 for the live event, which will air November 7, at 10:30pm ET, to IMPACT’s 90 million homes via basic cable,” stated Steven Marcano, of the SMH Group, the programming partner with Impact Media Group. “After discussing with the IMPACT executive team, Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, Royal Jackson and Terry Arnold, we all agreed that we wanted to work with Lou DiBella, who is now a Hall-of-Famer, and he’s brought us a terrific event featuring a female world title fight worthy of IMPACT Network. We were supposed to do another event with Lou earlier this year, but it was cancelled due to Covid-19. IMPACT plans to have a 24-show calendar for 2021 and plans many more shows with DiBella Entertainment. IMPACT Boxing is also excited to welcome boxing great Antonio Tarver, who will call the action from ringside, along with Curran Bhatia and ringside reporter and boxing insider Zach Hirsch.”

“T&K Boxing Promotions is happy to announce that we are working together with DiBella Entertainment on our November 6 event, known locally as ‘All or Nothing’, and we are thrilled that it will be broadcast on IMPACT Network,” said Jesus Escalera, President of T&K Boxing Promotions. “We were all set to present a great show featuring local talent and then Lou DiBella approached us with an opportunity to televise it. Lou also provided us with a tremendous women’s world championship main event, along with other up-and-coming prospects for the undercard. It will be a special night for us, as it is part of the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame’s induction weekend. The Class of 2020 will be in attendance.”

Reis is a former WBC middleweight world champion. Her nickname, “KO Mequinonoag”, which means “many feathers, many talents”, represents her Native American heritage, of which she is part Cherokee, Nipmuc, and Seaconke Wampanoag. In one of women’s boxing’s biggest events, Reis challenged then-undisputed welterweight world champion Cecilia Braekhus in 2018. It was the first women’s bout telecast by HBO World Championship Boxing in its 45-year history. Remarkably, the fight averaged 904,000 viewers, the second highest rating by the network for boxing during that year. Reis has rebounded with three wins in a row.

Wyatt, promoted by Michael Short’s Dekada Promotions, is a former world title challenger, having faced Linardatou for the WBO world female super lightweight title in March 2019. She was a highly accomplished amateur, before her 2014 pro debut, becoming a 10-time Provincial champion, six-time National champion and four-time Ringside World Tournament champion.

Rising lightweight Victor Padilla (8-0, 7 KOs) will be featured in a six-round bout. Trained by Rashiem Jefferson and managed by Carlos Rosario, the heavy-handed Padilla has stopped six of his opponents inside the opening round. Born in Puerto Rico, now living in Berlin, NJ, Padilla turned professional in December 2016, following a stellar amateur career that included three National championships, ending with a record of 90-7.

Elvis Garcia (8-0, 5 KOs) will clash with Dell Long (7-6-2, 4 KOs), of Artie, WV, in an attractive six-round heavyweight bout. Born in Mexico, now living in Indio, CA, trained by Joel Diaz, Garcia returns to the ring following a victory against Hugo Trujillo. He also recently gained invaluable experience working as the “secret weapon sparring partner” that promoter Eddie Hearn referred to with regard to Anthony Joshua’s preparation for his rematch against Andy Ruiz last year. Prior to turning pro, Garcia was an outstanding amateur with a record of 85-10, 42 KOs. After winning gold at the Washington State Golden Gloves, as well as a silver and two bronze medals at USA National Tournaments, Garcia moved to Tijuana, Mexico, where he won the Mexican National Championships and the Mexican Golden Gloves Tournament twice. Long is coming off of an unexpected upset win against Don Haynesworth (16-4-1) on August 29, and he also owns a knockout victory against 13-1 Travis Clark.

Heavyweight prospect Jeremiah Milton (1-0, 1 KO), originally from Tulsa, OK, now based in Las Vegas, NV, will compete in a four-round bout against Robert Brothers, of Titusville, FL. Milton’s pro debut on August 20 lasted just 75 seconds, ending with a knockout of Dennis Vance Jr. As an amateur, Milton was a super heavyweight silver medalist at the 2019 US Olympic Trials. In preparation for his pro debut, Milton sparred with Luis Ortiz, Joe Joyce and Guido Vianello.

UFC star Khabib Nurmagomedov says he wants to see former Undisputed Cruiserweight World Champion Oleksandr Usyk take on WBC Heavyweight ruler Tyson Fury.

Dana White hailed Russia’s Nurmagomedov as the ‘GOAT’ and pound-for-pound best after he sensationally retired following his second-round stoppage of Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in Abu Dhabi.

The undefeated Lightweight World Champion is a long-time fan of boxing, and was even spotted ringside for Anthony Joshua’s huge rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr in Saudi Arabia last year, but it is Ukraine’s Usyk he wants to see share the ring with ‘The Gypsy King’, not ‘AJ’.

When asked for his assessment of the sport, prior to Vasiliy Lomachenko’s loss to Teofimo Lopez in Las Vegas, Khabib told reporters: “Right now, I think three guys. Oleksandr Usyk, Vasiliy Lomachenko and Canelo Alvarez.

“Oh sorry, Tyson Fury too. Four guys. It’s very hard [to decide] who is the best.

“I really want to see Usyk vs Fury. It’s gonna be a very good fight. He [Usyk] has very good skill and technique, Tyson Fury too.

“He is not like other Heavyweights, more technique, his footwork is very good, his conditioning is very good, I really wanna watch Usyk against Fury.”

Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs) sits as WBO Mandatory Challenger to Joshua, but must first deal with an in-form Derek Chisora at The SSE Arena Wembley on Saturday, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in all of its nine markets including the U.S.

Usyk vs. Chisora tops a huge night of action, 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.

Tommy McCarthy believes that winning the EBU European Cruiserweight Title against Bilal Laggoune at The SSE Arena, Wembley this Saturday October 31, live on Sky Sports Box Office and onDAZN in all of its nine markets including the US, will put him him in line for a dream World Title shot. 

The Belfast man (16-2, 8 KOs) edged past Italy’s Fabio Turchi last October to land the WBC International Cruiserweight Title on away soil and believes his European Title shot against Belgium’s Laggoune has come at the perfect time. 

“I’ve been training for a long time and I’ve had a great camp,” said McCarthy. “We’ve had good notice for this fight. I feel like he’s made for me. To win this belt will open even more doors for me. The WBC Title opened doors; this will put me in the rankings with all of the governing bodies. Anyone who has come before me and won the EBU Title has usually gone on to fight for a World Title after. I’m looking at this as a World Title eliminator. 

“This will probably be the biggest show of the year. It’s live on pay-per-view and topped by two massive names in Oleksandr Uyk and Derek Chisora. For me the plan is to shine on this show, all eyes will be on me. It will boost my profile and I could become a household name within boxing. It will catapult me to stardom.”

McCarthy’s career took a huge blow in March 2019 when he was stopped in four rounds by Walworth’s big-punching British Cruiserweight Champion Richard Riakporhe at the East of England Arena in Peterborough, but the 29-year-old believes that loss was the making of him as a fighter. 

“Even when I was at the bottom, I always knew it would turn good because I have the talent,” said McCarthy. “I had a terrible loss, an embarrassing loss, and I had to pick myself up from being at an all-time low. After I sat down and did some soul-searching, I phoned Mark my manager and I said, ‘look, that’s never happening again, so let’s get a fight as soon as possible’.

“It doesn’t feel surreal or anything because I always had faith that it was going to end up this way. I believe that everything happens for a reason. When I was a kid I wanted to become Ireland’s first black World Champion. My main life-long goal is to become a World Champion. If the history comes with it, it just makes it sweeter.”

McCarthy vs. Laggoune 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, 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.

(October 26, 2020) — November’s most anticipated fight now has an exclusive UK broadcast home.
 
Premier Sports and Top Rank have announced that pound-for-pound king Terence “Bud” Crawford’s WBO welterweight world title defense against Sheffield’s Kell Brook — Saturday, November 14 in the United States — will air live on Premier Sports 1, with coverage starting at 12.30 a.m. Sunday morning.
 
The Crawford-Brook telecast will also include the highly anticipated rematch between WBA super flyweight world champion Joshua Franco and former world champion Andrew Moloney. Franco upset Moloney via unanimous decision June 23 to capture the world title.
 
Premier Sports 1 is available in HD via Sky (412 & 429), Virgin TV (551 & 552) and online via the Premier Player available on app and desktop. New subscribers to Premier Sports can easily sign up via the website – www.premiersports.com.
 
Richard Sweeney, CEO of Premier Sports said, “We are delighted to partner with Top Rank and broadcast this massively anticipated fight next month. There is huge interest in this event from fans in the UK, and we’re pleased to make it live and exclusive to Premier Sports customers.”
 
Brook said,“I am delighted to announce that my fans across the UK will be able to watch me fight Terence Crawford for the welterweight world title LIVE on Premier Sports.
 
“It’s bonfire season, and I’m going to be bringing the fireworks, so make sure you subscribe and tune in to watch me become two-time world champion, baby!”
 
Added Bob Arum, Top Rank Chairman, “I commend Premier Sports for stepping up to broadcast Crawford-Brook. Terence is a generational talent, and I strongly believe Kell has the skills to give him a tremendous challenge. The UK boxing fans deserved an outlet to watch this fight, and thanks to Premier Sports, they will have an opportunity to do so.”
 
About Premier Sports
Formed in 2009, Premier Sports is currently broadcasting in the UK and Republic of Ireland with live and exclusive rights to the Premier League, LaLiga, Serie A, Guinness PRO14, Scottish Cup and Betfred Cup, GAA, NHL, NASCAR and also operate BoxNation, a dedicated boxing channel. Many of these rights are available in both territories with some exclusive to each region.

Dave Allen will fight Christopher Lovejoy on the undercard of the blockbuster Heavyweight clash between Oleksandr Usyk and Derek Chisora 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.

Fan favourite Allen was due to make his ring return against Christian Hammer before the German was forced out after testing positive for COVID-19 now meets undefeated Christopher Lovejoy whose 100% KO record from his 19 professional bouts see him ranked in the top 15 with the WBA.

2019 held mixed fortunes for Allen, who has now linked up with trainer Jamie Moore, with ‘The White Rhino’ looking to end Lovejoy’s unbeaten run in style.

“I’m looking forward to this fight with Chris,” said Allen. “He’s positioned 15th with the WBA and I’d love to take that World ranking. He’s a big, strong man and just look at his record – He’s done what’s been asked of him in those 19 fights. There’s not much footage of him, so I don’t know really know what I’m preparing for which adds to the intrigue but I’m going in there to do a number on him.”

“I finally made it here to the U.K!” said Lovejoy. “I’m here to shock the world and show what Chris Lovejoy is really about. Dave will end up number 20 on my record. I’ve travelled a long way so I just hope he shows up!”

“This is fascinating,” added promoter Eddie Hearn. “Here we have this giant in Christopher Lovejoy that has amassed 19 wins with 19 KOs against limited opposition and has somehow found himself in the world top 15. The truth is, he might be an absolute beast or he may get found out but for Dave Allen it’s a huge opportunity. There will be plenty of eyeballs on this fight and if Dave can get the win he will force himself into the World rankings and land a major fight in 2021. I have absolutely no idea what’s going to happen but I’m excited to find out!”

Allen vs. Lovejoy lands of huge night of action which sees former Undisputed Cruiserweight king Oleksandr Usyk and Derek Chisora meet in a thrilling Heavyweight clash, Lee Selby and George KambososJr square off in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Lightweight World Title, Savannah Marshall and Hannah Rankin collide for the WBO Middleweight crown, Belfast’s Tommy McCarthy fights Belgium’s Bilal Laggoune for the European Cruiserweight Title and Amy Timlin faces off with Carly Skelly for the Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight Title.

Julio Cesar Martinez has set his sights on unification battles in 2021 before moving to Super-Flyweight as the WBC World Flyweight king meets Moises Calleros tonight at TV Azteca Studios in Mexico City, Mexico, live on DAZN.

Martinez (16-1 12 KOs) fights for the second time as WBC king following his first defense against Welshman Jay Harris in Dallas in February having won the vacant strap with a ninth round KO in a thrilling shootout with former champion Cristofer Rosales in December.

Calleros (33-9-1 17 KOs) failed to make weight for the battle so cannot win the strap, but Martinez is still looking to impress and reignite the momentum he had going following his World title wins.

The 25 year old is eyeing battles with IBF champion Moruti Mthalane and WBA ruler Artem Dalakian in unification battles but admits that the lure of big showdowns with tonight’s fellow World title defenders Juan Francisco Estrada and Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez could see him move to Super-Flyweight later in 2021.

“I would like to go up against Mthalane,” said Martinez. “There’s him, there’s Dalakian. Honestly, I will go up against anyone, anywhere. I’m ready to have my hand raised first thanks to God, because we’re going in with everything other than fear. We won’t disappoint, it will a great fight.

“I want to stay here a little while to get two or three more belts. But I want the biggest fights, so I’d want El Gallo Estrada and Chocolatito, big fights. But whatever comes. Maybe I have six more months and I’ll move up to Super-Flyweight before they run away from me.

“More than anything, I’m very happy and very excited to be fighting in my homeland. I’m just happy that, after my fight, I can go be with my family, with my wife, with my kids. 

“I spent my whole training camp at the Centro Ceremonial Otomi. I’ve always said that I prepare with everything other than fear. I don’t train at 100 per cent. I train at 1000 per cent with my training Mauricio Aceves. We fight with whoever, wherever and we always give 100 per cent.

“We’re really happy that Eddy Reynoso and the rest of the guys have accepted us into that group. In that stable you have guys like Canelo, Andy Ruiz Jr, Ryan Garcia, Oscar Valdez ‘El Pantera’ Luiz Nery, they’re really all great friends. It’s really great motivation, anything is possible and we’re going into this fight with everything and for the fights to come, thank God.

“It’s a really good fight tonight. He’s a guy that moves a lot and who brings it all in the ring. But we know we’re also going to leave it all in the ring. And like I always say against whomever and wherever, we always give it our all.”

Martinez’s clash with Calleros is part of a huge fight night in Mexico City, topped by a triple header of mouthwatering World title action.

Juan Francisco Estrada (40-3 27 KOs) defends his WBC World Super-Flyweight title in a rematch with Carlos Cuadras (39-3-1 27 KOs) and Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (49-2 41 KOs) defends his WBA World Super-Flyweight strap against Israel Gonzalez (25-3 11 KOs) – with Estrada and Chocolatito on a collision course for a rematch should they both emerge victorious.

Three of Eddie Hearn’s young tyros make their return to action on the bill, with Diego Pacheco (9-0 7 KOs) boxing for the tenth time in the paid ranks, Austin Williams (5-0 4 KOs) making a second foray outside the States in his sixth pro fight and Otha Jones III (5-0 2 KOs) also boxing for the sixth time as a pro.

Israel Gonzalez believes he has the boxing IQ to beat WBA World Super-Flyweight champion Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez as they clash for the belt live on DAZN tonight from TV Azteca Studios in Mexico City, Mexico.

Gonzalez (25-3 11 KOs) is hoping it’s third time lucky in World title fights having fallen short against Jerwin Ancajas in February 2018 for the IBF strap and then Kal Yafai nine months later for the WBA belt.

Chocolatito ripped the title from Yafai in Dallas in February with a ninth round KO underscoring a dominant performance by the former pound for pound king. The carrot of a rematch with Juan Francisco Estrada dangles over the evening with both champions putting their belts on the line, as WBC king ‘El Gallo’ meets Carlos Cuadras in another rematch.

But 23 year old Gonzalez is confident he will rip up those plans and is relishing the chance to go up against the vastly experienced Nicaraguan, believing he can outwit the 33 year old and land the World title.

“I’m excited, I’m ready and I think it’s the opportunity of a lifetime, the fight of my life,” said Gonzalez. “I’m going up against one of the best pound for point fighters in the world at the smaller weights. It’s an opportunity that I can’t waste and I’m ready for this fight, I’m sure that it’s going to be my night.

“I think my intelligence will be the key in the fight, my intelligence in the ring. Knowing how to use my timing and use the distance and to fight an intelligent fight against Roman, who is also very intelligent. I think that will be the main factor, not to pressure myself, not to get hit with too many punches – hit and not get hit. 

“I’ve watched his fight with Yafai a few times. I get a lot out of watching it; I don’t think Yafai looked great, I didn’t see him very concentrated in the fight and I think that made things easier for Roman. My style is completely different from Yafai, so this will be a very different fight. 

“I’ve been through similar things before, different fighters like Yafai before facing them, they were already looking ahead to other fights, and it hasn’t gone well for them. In don’t think this will be an exception. Tonight, we will show them they’re doing things wrong and should be looking at what’s in front of them.”

“I don’t like to make predictions but I just can’t wait for the fight. I want to show all the work I’ve put into training. I guarantee it will be a good fight, I don’t doubt that it will be my night and I have no doubt I will become World champion.” 

Gonzalez’s clash with Chocolatito is part of a huge fight night in Mexico City, topped by a triple header of mouthwatering World title action.

Juan Francisco Estrada (40-3 27 KOs) defends his WBC World Super-Flyweight title in a rematch with Carlos Cuadras (39-3-1 27 KOs) – with Estrada and Chocolatito on a collision course for a rematch should they both emerge victorious – and Julio Cesar Martinez (16-1 12 KOs) will now defend his WBC World Flyweight title against Moises Calleros (33-9-1 17 KOs).

Three of Eddie Hearn’s young tyros make their return to action on the bill, with Diego Pacheco (9-0 7 KOs) boxing for the tenth time in the paid ranks, Austin Williams (5-0 4 KOs) making a second foray outside the States in his sixth pro fight and Otha Jones III (5-0 2 KOs) also boxing for the sixth time as a pro

NEW YORK (October 23, 2020) – Unbeaten WBA Super Lightweight Champion and San Antonio-native Mario “El Azteca” Barrios will look to put on a memorable performance in front of his hometown fans when he battles Ryan “Cowboy” Karl in the SHOWTIME PPV co-main event Saturday, October 31 from Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

“It always feels great to fight in Texas, but this fight is even sweeter because I’ll be defending my WBA title in my hometown of San Antonio,” said Barrios. “I’m expecting a huge turnout from my San Antonio and Texas fans and I promise to bring everyone at Alamodome a sensational night of action. There is a lot at stake, and I won’t be denied. I’m ready to drop some bombs and remain champion.”

For the 25-year-old Barrios, October 31 is another opportunity on a big platform to make a statement that he is one boxing’s young rising stars. Being able to take the stage on a stacked event only increases his excitement leading up to the fight.

“This is a great opportunity for me and it definitely adds to my motivation to be part of what could be a historic night for boxing,” said Barrios. “It’s a humbling experience. I’ve been getting tons of feedback from my local fans about purchasing tickets, so I encourage everyone to buy them as soon as possible. If you’re unable to be there, make sure you order it on SHOWTIME PPV, because this is not a card you will want to miss out on.”

Barrios has continued to work with renowned coach Virgil Hunter as he resumes his climb up the 140-pound rankings. Hunter has overseen Barrios as he’s compiled a record of 8-0 with seven knockouts since moving up to super lightweight in 2017. This includes Barrios’ most recent triumph, a unanimous decision over then unbeaten Batyr Akhmedov in September 2019 to capture his WBA crown.

“Training camp with Virgil has been great,” said Barrios. “We keep growing with each fight. I’m learning and adding more to my arsenal. I have full confidence in my preparation, so I know that come fight night, I’ll be ready to handle the best Karl is able to bring.”

Barrios will be opposed by the Milano, Texas-born Karl. The two Texans have known each other for years dating back to their days competing in the same amateur tournaments. Barrios expects the best from his familiar foe, but will not be holding back when they finally square off on fight night.

“Ryan Karl is an excellent fighter who is going to bring a lot of heart into the ring,” said Barrios. “He’s strong and likes to mix it up, so I’m preparing for a war. We’ve known each other since our amateur days back in Texas, but this will be the first time fighting each other. At the end of the day, business is business, I am honored to be sharing the ring with him, but my goal will be to display my boxing abilities and explosiveness. I’m not looking for a knockout, but everything I throw is with bad intentions.”

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/.

Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez defends his WBA World Super-Flyweight title against Israel Gonzalez tonight at TV Azteca Studios in Mexico City, Mexico live on DAZN – and says his win over former champion Kal Yafai is one of the proudest of his glittering career.

Chocolatito (49-2 41 KOs) handed Yafai a first career defeat with a dominant performance in Dallas in February with a ninth round KO to return to World champion status for the first time since losing his WBC strap to Srisaket Sor Rungvisai in March 2017.

The Nicaraguan is heading for a rematch with WBC ruler Juan Francisco Estrada should he beat Gonzalez and ‘El Gallo’ gain a second win over Carlos Cuadras, and the 33 year old is proud of his performance against Yafai for setting up the possibility of a blockbuster second clash with the Mexican in 2021.

“I’m really proud because I’ve had the strength and blessings to win a World title again,” said Chocolatito. “After so many fights, the one against Kal Yafai and being crowned World champion again, it was one of the most satisfying victories of my life. 

“I did great work in training camp with my team, you’ve already seen the results and we’re doing the same and persevering through this time, so we are prepared to come out with our hand raised again.

“It’s a hard fight with Israel. You cannot look past anyone. He has to watch out, and so do I. We’re going to have a great fight, I always hope everything turns out well in the end. He’s coming in good shape and so am I, so we move forward.

“We are focused on Friday tonight, I think it’s going to be a difficult fight, like every fight is. The most important thing is coming in there in good shape, mentally and physically and coming out with my hand raised. After that, we can discuss many important things and we’ll see about the fight with Estrada.

“Thank God, I had that last opportunity i had in the fight with Yafai. We had that fight and then the pandemic happened. I went to my family. There were a lot of important things that I couldn’t do. 

“But God has his plans, it’s been hard these three months that I haven’t been home. I’ve missed my family, but I’ve been careful during the pandemic. And we’re still here, thank God. I know we’re all going to get through this, it’s been hard but we’re still here fighting.”

Chocolatito’s clash with Gonzalez is part of a huge fight night in Mexico City, topped by a triple header of mouthwatering World title action.

Juan Francisco Estrada (40-3 27 KOs) defends his WBC World Super-Flyweight title in a rematch with Carlos Cuadras (39-3-1 27 KOs) – with Estrada and Chocolatito on a collision course for a rematch should they both emerge victorious – and Julio Cesar Martinez (16-1 12 KOs) will now defend his WBC World Flyweight title against Moises Calleros (33-9-1 17 KOs).

Three of Eddie Hearn’s young tyros make their return to action on the bill, with Diego Pacheco (9-0 7 KOs) boxing for the tenth time in the paid ranks, Austin Williams (5-0 4 KOs) making a second foray outside the States in his sixth pro fight and Otha Jones III (5-0 2 KOs) also boxing for the sixth time as a pro.

NEW YORK (OCTOBER 23, 2020)– Tonight in Mexico City, two of
Split-T Management’s undefeated prospects, super middleweight Diego Pacheco and junior lightweight Otha Jones III will be in action on a card that will be streamed live on DAZN (7 PM ET).

Pacheco (9-0, 7 KOs) of Los Angeles battles Juan Antonio Mendez (12-2-2, 8 KOs) of Mexico, while Jones (5-0, 2 KOs) battles fellow undefeated Kevin Monitel (6-0, 3 KOs) of Mexico. Both bouts are scheduled for six-rounds.

Pacheco, still just 19 years-old continues his upward ascension as he continues to take on quality opposition. He was wins over four undefeated foes, and is coming off a win over 34-fight veteran Oscar Riojas on February 29th.

Pacheco is under the guidance of Tim VanNewhouse.

Pacheco was 167.2 lbs at Thursday’s weigh-in. Mendez was 164.9 lbs

Mendez, 33 years-old, has wins over two undefeated fighters and undefeated in his last four outings. He is coming off a win over Rafael Rocha Merino on November 19th.

The 20 year-old native of Toledo, Ohio, Jones, who was a 21-time National Amateur Champion, looks to raise his mark to 6-0 as he battles an undefeated opponent.

Jones is coming off an impressive 2nd round stoppage over Juan Santiago on January 30th in Miami.

Montiel, 21 years-old, who has wins over Cesar Ramos (4-1) and Pedro Ivan Bernal (2-0), is coming off a Angel Enrique Leal Pacheco on November 16.

Both Jones and Montiel were 130 lbs, at Thursday’s weigh-in.

Jones and Pacheco are promoted by Matchroom Boxing.

IBF Welterweight Interim World Championship – 12 Rounds

Sergey Lipinets – 147 lbs.

Custio Clayton – 147 lbs.

Referee: David Fields (Newark, N.J.); Judges: Glenn Feldman (Avon, Conn.), Tom Schreck (Albany, N.Y.), Don Trella (Noank, Conn.)

WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Xavier Martinez – 130 lbs.

Claudio Marrero – 130 lbs.

Referee: John McKaie (Flushing, N.Y.); Judges: Tom Carusone (Hebron, Conn.), Glenn Feldman (Avon, Conn.), John McKaie (Flushing, N.Y.)

Super Lightweights – 10 Rounds

Malik Hawkins – 140 ¼ lbs.

Subriel Matias – 139 ½ lbs.

Referee: Johnny Callas (West Hartford, Conn.); Judges: Tom Carusone (Hebron, Conn.), John McKaie (Flushing, N.Y.), Don Trella (Noank, Conn.)

*  *  *

ABOUT LIPINETS VS. CLAYTON

Lipinets vs. Clayton will see former world champion Sergey Lipinets face unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title headlining action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, October 24 from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see undefeated contender Xavier Martínez battle hard-hitting Claudio “The Matrix” Marrero in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Rising super lightweight Malik “Iceman” Hawkins will duel knockout artist Subriel Matías in a 10-round showdown to kick off the televised action.

The event is promoted by TGB Promotions, Lee Baxter Promotions and Mayweather Promotions.

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

Juan Francisco Estrada insists he is fully focused on his WBC World Super-Flyweight title defense against Carlos Cuadras tonight at TV Azteca Studios in Mexico City, Mexico, live on DAZN. 

Estrada (40-3 27 KOs) meets Cuadras in a rematch of their closely fought first battle in September 2017, and should Estrada retain his title and Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez prevail in his WBA World Super-Flyweight title defense against Israel Gonzalez this evening, the pair will clash in a hotly-anticipated rematch in early 2021.

Cuadras (39-3-1 27 KOs) says he has learned lessons from the first fight and has promised a war, but ‘El Gallo’ is ready to meet fire with fire, and revealed injuries had him underprepared for their first battle.

“It was a great fight without a doubt, it was very close,” said Estrada. “Carlos was a World champion, he’s not just any opponent, thank God we came out with the victory. I learned that in those title fights, in those World title elimination fights, you have to give your all, no matter who the opponent is. I think that in this second fight against him, we’ll show things with more clarity. 

“It’s been nearly three years since that fight, I’ve had other fights and you never stop learning. We’ve been studying and we’ve watched my first fight with him. More than anything I learned that I have to train at 100 per cent. I only trained at 50 or 60 per cent for that fight, but I wasn’t fully healthy, I had some injuries and now, thank God, I don’t have any injuries and I’m at 100 per cent. So, if he wins, he’s better than me, but I really doubt it. I think we’re well prepared both mentally and physically. 

“First and foremost, I am focused on getting past Carlos which is the priority. If we both win it looks like there’s a 90 per cent chance, we’re going into a fight with Chocolatito. It’s already been eight years since the first fight and a lot of people are calling for the rematch, I’m excited for it and I really hope it happens next year. 

“I have two other losses and I avenged them both, that’s the only one left to avenge and I hope it happens soon. The truth is we’ve both changed a lot, it’s been eight years and I think we’re both really experienced. Now we’re both World champions too, it would be a great unification fight. It was at Light-Flyweight and I was at Flyweight at the time I went down for the opportunity for a World title. 

“I was 21 years old; I was inexperienced fighting against the best Flyweight and pound-for-pound fighter. Now, with the World titles I’ve won, I’ve gained experience and strength. I’m at Super-Flyweight, two weight classes higher, I think we’ve both adapted to this weight class, we’ve both won World titles, it would be a better fight than the first. It’s a fight that the people would really enjoy. 

“I’m really happy to finally be able to fight after one year and two months. It’s been sad more than anything, because there has been a lot of inactivity, not necessarily for me but for everyone in general. It’s been pretty hard. Thanks God things are slowly getting back to normal. But there are still people coming out with positive COVID test and we have to take care of ourselves.”

Estrada’s clash with Cuadras is part of a huge night of action in Mexico City, topped by a triple header of mouthwatering World title action.

Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (49-2 41 KOs) defends his WBA World Super-Flyweight title against Israel Gonzalez  (25-3 11 KOs) – with Estrada and Chocolatito on a collision course for a rematch should they both emerge victorious – and Julio Cesar Martinez (16-1 12 KOs) will now defend his WBC World Flyweight title against Moises Calleros (33-9-1 17 KOs).

Three of Eddie Hearn’s young tyros make their return to action on the bill, with Diego Pacheco (9-0 7 KOs) boxing for the tenth time in the paid ranks, Austin Williams (5-0 4 KOs) making a second foray outside the States in his sixth pro fight and Otha Jones III (5-0 2 KOs) also boxing for the sixth time as a pro.

Derek Chisora says Oleksandr Usyk is in store for the “fright of his life” when they collide in a Heavyweight Halloween blockbuster 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.

‘WAR’ Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs) intends on giving Usyk nightmares in his second fight up at Heavyweight, and the Finchley powerhouse heads into next weekend’s clash in terrifying form having scored big knockout wins over Artur Szpika and David Price at The O2 in 2019. 

“On October 31st, Oleksandr Usyk is going to get the fright of his life,” said Chisora. “He wants to claim he is at the top of the food chain, but if he wants to do that he needs to box a true Heavyweight. It’s a fight, the guy is going to chuck the kitchen sink at me. I’m just going to bite down on the gum shield and let god take over. I am coming for war!

“The fight sells itself, he is a good fighter and is loved by the English fans. Even people who don’t like boxing love watching him and he’s fighting myself. There is nothing bad about this fight, there’s not hatred, it’s all about the love for the sport.

“He’s not scary, it’s a fight. He’s a man and I’m a man. The worst thing that can happen is you get knocked out. I will make sure that when Usyk gets out that ring he knows he has been in a fight. Seek and destroy, no mercy! That’s what we’re aiming for.”

Usyk vs. Chisora tops a huge night of action, 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, 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.

Matchroom Boxing are delighted to announce Betfred as the official title partner for Oleksandr Usyk’s highly-anticipated Heavyweight clash with Derek Chisora at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday October 31, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in the US. 
 
Pound-for-pound star Usyk (17-0, 13 KOs) made the move to Heavyweight after dominating at Cruiserweight, winning all of the major belts in an extraordinary spell at 200lbs that saw him crowned the Undisputed World Champion. 
 
The 2012 Olympic Gold medallist is determined to become a two-weight World Champion but faces an in-form Chisora (32-9, 23 KOs) who is coming into this fight off the back of two devastating KO wins over Artur Szpilka and David Price. 
 
Usyk vs. Chisora is supported by an all-action undercard as 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, 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 and Amy Timlin (4-0) faces off with Carly Skelly (3-0) for the vacant Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight Title.
 
Fred Done, Owner of Betfred, said: “We enjoy a fantastic relationship with Barry Hearn’s Matchroom Sport through our sponsorship of snooker and darts, so I am delighted to be joining up with Matchroom Boxing for what should be a superb Heavyweight clash.”
 
Eddie Hearn, Managing Director of Matchroom Sport, said: “Betfred have been a huge supporter of Matchroom events over the years, especially through their World championship snooker partnership and I am delighted to welcome them onboard for this huge fight next week, and look forward to delivering them unprecedented global exposure and a thrilling night for Betfred and fight fans around the world.”

Billy Joe Saunders will make the second defence of his WBO Super-Middleweight World Title against British rival Martin Murray at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Friday December 4, live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in all of its nine markets including the U.S.

Hatfield star Saunders (29-0, 14 KOs) became a two-weight World Champion with a shutout points win over Shefat Isufi in May 2019, outclassing his Serbian opponent over 12 rounds to add the WBO 168lbs crown to his collection. 

The former Middleweight ruler was on the verge of securing a mega fight with Mexican pound-for-pound icon Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez earlier this year before the coronavirus pandemic turned the sporting world on its head and scuppered his shot at greatness. 

Four-time World Title challenger Murray (39-5-1, 17 KOs) stands in the way of unification fights for Saunders in 2021, and the St Helens man is more determined than ever to finally land a World Title of his own and put his rivalry with Saunders to bed after their scheduled meeting in 2018 fell through twice. 

“I am very happy to be defending my WBO World Title again,” said Saunders. “I haven’t boxed for a year and I really do miss being in the ring. I can’t wait to have my 30th professional fight and finish the year with a bang before a big 2021.

“The coronavirus pandemic has affected everybody in many ways, and it has had a big impact on the sport of boxing. The Canelo Alvarez fight falling through was very frustrating for me but now the journey continues in December. 

“Martin and I were supposed to fight twice before but it didn’t happen either time. He said some stuff and so did I, so let’s see who can back it up. I’m enjoying training with Mark Tibbs. He’s incredibly knowledgeable in the sport of boxing and we are working on new stuff that we will show on the night.”

“I’m really looking forward to getting back in there and fighting for another World Title,” said Murray. “The big fights definitely bring out the best in me. This year has been a good year for me personally. It seemed like all the stresses of life were taken away so I really enjoyed being able to relax a bit more and spend even more time with my family.

“There was no bad blood really between me and Billy to be honest, it was just a lot of frustration after he pulled out twice. That got left where it was, but we’ve definitely got some unfinished business. I’m expecting a hard fight and Billy Joe to be at his best, so I’ll be ready.”

“I’m delighted to announce another big fight for the 2020 schedule as we close out this tough year with a huge bang,” said Eddie Hearn. “All-British World Title fights are always special, especially in the Super-Middleweight division, and I’m really excited to see Billy back in the ring. We were 24 hours away from an announcement for Billy to fight Canelo when the pandemic hit and so it throws up the final roll of the dice for Martin Murray who will give it everything on December 4.”

“We’re bringing you more World Title action on our Sky Sports schedule during a thrilling end to the boxing calendar, which also features the return of Katie Taylor and some huge Heavyweight nights on Sky Sports Box Office,” said Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports.

“Billy Joe Saunders defends his WBO Super-Middleweight belt in an all-British battle against Martin Murray, with live boxing back on a Friday night! Katie Taylor returns next month on a triple-header of women’s World Title fights – and Britain’s Heavyweights also take centre stage as Usyk vs. Chisora, Povetkin vs. Whyte 2 and AJ vs. Pulev will guarantee Heavyweight drama.”

Lee Selby can take a step closer to becoming Wales’ first ever two-weight World Champion when he takes on George Kambosos Jr in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Lightweight World Title on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora on Saturday October 31, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Former IBF Featherweight World Champion Selby (28-2, 9 KOs) made the move up to Lightweight after losing his title to Josh Warrington at Elland Road back in May 2018, and the 33-year-old from Barry has won two in a row at 135lbs, most recently beating Ricky Burns over 12 rounds last October. 

Next up for ‘Lightning’ is a scheduled 12-rounder against Australia’s unbeaten contender ‘Ferocious’ Kambosos Jr, who had previously promised to retire Selby in front of his home crowd when they were due to meet at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff back in May.

“On social media he comes across quite outspoken and arrogant,” said Selby. “He’s saying he’s going to do this and do that. To look at him, he looks like a very good fighter. He’s got fast hands; he looks like he can punch. He can box a bit as well; he brings a lot of pressure. He’s young, hungry and ambitious.

“When we did an E-Press Conference earlier in the year he told me that every time he hit me in sparring, he rocked me to my boots. That in itself just gave me extra confidence, knowing that he’s making up tales about sparring. 

“You don’t speak to anybody like that. It is disrespectful. To me it’s water off a duck’s back. It doesn’t bother me. I don’t know whether he’s trying to get me to fall into a trap, but that’s just not who I am. I’ve got very thick skin.”

A number of Welshman have had the opportunity to become two-weight World Champions, including Caerphilly’s Robbie Regan and Newport’s Gavin Rees, but Selby is promising to go one better than his countrymen by dethroning Teofimo Lopez when he gets the chance. 

“If I come through this fight then I’ll be in another massive World Title fight,” added Selby. “Teofimo Lopez is within touching distance and a dream is close to becoming a reality for me. It will be life-changing for me if I can get through this fight.

“I’ll become the first Welshman to become a two-weight World Champion. All I have to do is win two fights. Two fights and I’ve written my name into the history books. It would not only be massive for Welsh boxing, but British boxing too. You can’t put a price tag on that.

“On October 31 you’re going to see a Lee Selby win, by any means possible, whether the stoppage comes or it’s a 12-round decision – you’ll see a Lee Selby win. I’ve had time to grow into the weight. During lockdown I was doing a lot of strength and conditioning work and I feel like a fully-fledged Lightweight now.”

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, 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) 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.

Live on DAZN from 7pm ET

6 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest

Otha Jones III (130 lbs)                  vs.     Kevin Montiel (130 lbs)
Toledo, Ohio                                            Mexico       
5-0 (2 KOs)                                      6-0 (3 KOs)

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Middleweight contest

Austin Williams (160 lbs)      vs.     Esau Herrera (157.6 lbs)
Houston, Texas                      Mexico City, Mexico
5-0 (4 KOs)                             19-11-1 (8 KOs)

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest

Diego Pacheco (167.2 lbs)    vs.     Juan Antonio Mendez (164.9 lbs)
Los Angeles, California          Mexico City, Mexico
9-0 7 KOs                               12-2-2 (10 KOs)

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBC World Flyweight Championship

Julio Cesar Martinez (111 lbs)       vs.     Moises Calleros (117.4 lbs*)
Mexico City, Mexico                                 Monterrey, Mexico
16-1-1 (12 KOs)                               33-9-1 (17 KOs)

*Calleros failed to make weight – fight goes on but Calleros unable to win the title that Martinez owns.

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA World Super-Flyweight Championship

Roman Gonzalez (114 lbs)    vs.     Israel Gonzalez (114 lbs)
Managua, Nicaragua                       Los Cabos, Mexico
49-2 (41 KOs)                                  25-3 (11 KOs)

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBC World Super-Flyweight Championship

Juan Francisco Estrada (114.5 lbs) vs.     Carlos Cuadras (114.5 lbs)
Sonora, Mexico                               Sinaloa, Mexico
40-3 27 KOs                                              39-3-1 27 KOs