Carlos Cuadras has been waiting patiently to get his revenge on Juan Francisco Estrada and now his moment has arrived as they clash for Estrada’s WBC World Super-Flyweight title on Friday night at TV Azteca Studios in Mexico City, Mexico, live on DAZN.
 
Cuadras (39-3-1 27 KOs) and Estrada first met in September 2019 in Los Angeles, with Estrada edging Cuadras out by a point on the cards, with a knockdown in the tenth round proving decisive. 
 
For Estrada, a successful defense of his belt will lead to a long-awaited rematch with Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez in 2021, but Cuadras is eyeing a rematch with the former pound for pound king himself after they boxed in September 2016, and says he’s got his gameplan right this time to level the score with ‘El Gallo’.
 
“This is the fight I have been waiting for,” said Cuadras. “I am better prepared this time. I’m throwing a lot of punches in training. I’m throwing 12 rounds of sparring with three different guys. I’m doing a lot of mitt sessions.
 
“I think I’m going to arrive very fast and invincible and I’m going to give the Rooster his medicine. So, let the Rooster take care because I’m going to tear his head off. It’s going to be an honor to win The Ring magazine and WBC belt as well. 
 
“He can be a slow starter, but once he is in a rhythm, he is harder to fight. He’s good to the body and he has a good right hand, that’s the punch he put me down with in our first fight. I gave it my all in the first rounds, so I lost my energy for the second half, I went too hard from the start.
 
“He’s not going to get the rematch with Chocolatito – I am going to get my rematch with him, because people saw that I won that fight.”
 
Cuadras’ clash with Estrada 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. 

SAN CARLOS, Sonora, México (October 21, 2020) — The official weigh in was held today for tomorrow night’s Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions (RJJ Boxing) and iKON Fighting Federation (iKON) doubleheader at Marinaterra Hotel Spa Event Center in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico.

The combat sports twin-bill will stream live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. RJJ Boxing starts at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT, followed by iKON 2 MMA action at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

Official fighters’ weights below:

BOXING

MAIN EVENT – LIGHTWEIGHTS (8)*
Luis Torres (8-0, 6 KOs), Ciudad Obregón, México 135 ½ lbs.
Orlando Zepeda (9-1, 2 KOs), Guadalajara, Jalisco, México 134 ½ lbs.

CO-FEATURE – FEATHERWEIGHTS (8)*
Alan Solis (10-0, 6 KOs), Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México 127 lbs.
Eddy Valencia (15-4-6, 5 KOs), Culiacán, Sinaloa, México 127 lbs.

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (8)*
Lester Martinez (5-0, 5 KOs), Guatemala City, Guatemala 167 lbs.
Michi Munoz (28-11-1 (19 KOs), León, Guanajuato, México 167 lbs.

LIGHT WELTERWEIGHTS (4)*
Omar Ulises Gutierrez (pro debut), Guadalajara, Jalisco, México 141 lbs.
Geovanni Lopez (4-4, 4 KOs), Guadalajara, Jalisco, México 141 ½ lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
Giovanny Meza (pro debut), Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, México 147 lbs.
Jesus Hernandez (1-1-1-, 0 KOs), Nogales, Sonora, México 149 lbs.

MMA

MAIN EVENT – FEATHERWEIGHTS (3 X 5)*
Alejandro Flores (17-3-0) Monterrey, Nuevo León, México 145 ½ lbs.
Andy Perez (10-8-0), Tucson, Arizona, USA 145 ½ lbs.

CO-FEATURE – FEMALE BANTAMWEIGHTS (3 X 5)*
Bella Mir (pro debut), Las Vegas, Nevada, USA 137 lbs.
Danielle Wynn (pro debut), Atlanta, Georgia, USA 134 ½ lbs.

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (3 X 5)*
Jonny Parsons (5-2-0, iKON: 1-0-0), Las Vegas, Nevada, USA 192 lbs.
Juan Raymon Grano Medina (6-4-1), Chihuahua, Chihuahua, México 194 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS (3 X 5)
Anthony Paucar Jimenez (5-1-1), San Bernardino, California, USA 148 lbs.
Daniel Palomares (3-1-0), Manzanillo, Manzanillo, México 144 lbs.

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (3 X 5)
Pete Rodríguez (pro debut), Tucson, Arizona, USA 175 lbs.
Jorge Olea (2-2-0), Guaymas, Sonora, México 175 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS (3 X 5)
David Briones (3-1-0), Las Vegas, Nevada, USA 155 lbs.
Alejandro Corrales (2-1-0), Monterrey, Nuevo León, México 155 lbs.

BANTAMWEIGHTS (3 X 5)*
Eraj Aliev (pro debut), Houston, Texas, USA LATER
Erick Olea (pro debut), Guaymas, Sonora, México 125 lbs.

(card subject to change)
*denotes streaming live on UFC FIGHT PASS

CO-PROMOTERS: Boxing – RJJ Boxing Promotions and De La O Promotions, MMA – iKON (in association with RJJ Boxing) and De La O Promotions

BROADCASTERS: Boxing – Sean Wheelock (blow-by-blow), and James “Smitty” Smith (color commentator); MMA – T.J. DeSantis

RING ANNOUNCER: Jeff Huston

WHERE: Maninaterra Hotel & Spa Event Center, San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico

WHEN: Thursday, October 22, 2020

CO-PROMOTERS: Boxing – RJJ Boxing Promotions and De La O Promotions, MMA – iKON (in association with RJJ Boxing) and De La O Promotions

LIVE STREAM: Streaming live on UFC FIGHT PASS
®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, boxing starts at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT, followed with MMA action at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT
To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

BROADCASTERS: Boxing – Sean Wheelock (blow-by-blow), and James “Smitty” Smith (color commentator); MMA – T.J. DeSantis

RING ANNOUNCER: Jeff Huston

INFORMATION:

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

ATLANTA, GA (OCTOBER 21, 2020)– Boxing prodigy brothers Nathan and Elijah Lugo added to their already impressive resumes with victories in the 4th Nations Junior Cup in Vrbas, Serbia.

Representatives of the United States of America, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Northern Macedonia and Serbia were in attendance.

Nathan, 16, won the 201-pound bracket as he scored a 32 second knockout in his opening round bout against an opponent that was riding a 15-bout knockout streak. Nathan later won the tournament in a walkover as his prospective opponent claimed a shoulder injury and would not compete.

Elijah, 14, originally came to Serbia in support of his older brother, but was asked to compete in the tournament after organizers waived the 16 year-old age minimum so he could compete in the 165-pound division.

Elijah went out and defeated his Serbian opponent by a 2-1 score on the strength of a standing-eight count in the final frame. He then won his final with a 2nd round knockout as he dropped his opponent with hard body shots that were set up by great boxing skills. Elijah was awarded the Best Boxer in the competition.

The Lugo’s were the only representatives from the United States and their strong performances catapulted USA to finish in 2nd place.

Nathan and Elijah are coached by their father, Michael, and are widely considered the two best young prospects in the United States. They have both been a part of USA Boxing since the age of eight.

Nathan has an amateur record of 219-9 and is a 21-time National Champion. He is tied for the most stoppage victories in history by a USA Boxer.

Elijah is 151-19 and is a 15-time National Champion. He will be fighting in December for a chance to be on Team USA.

The Lugo’s reside in Atlanta.

SAN ANTONIO, TX – October 21, 2020 – Rising unbeaten Michel Rivera will take on lightweight contender Ladarius Miller in a 10-round showdown highlighting non-televised undercard action on Saturday, October 31 from the Alamodome in San Antonio in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The event is headlined by the highly anticipated showdown between Gervonta “Tank” Davis and Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz , as the two stars battle for the WBA Lightweight and WBA Super Featherweight Championships on SHOWTIME PPV.

Pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features 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 taking 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.

Additional undercard attractions will see unbeaten Jerry Pérez (12-0, 9 KOs) face Joshua Zuniga (11-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-round super featherweight bout and undefeated welterweight Kent Cruz (15-0-1, 9 KOs) squaring off against Mexico’s José Marrufo (12-10-2, 1 KO) in a six-round fight.

Rounding out the lineup is unbeaten Julián Rodarte (17-0-1, 7 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight fight opposite Mexico’s José Morales, and the pro debut of Anthony Cuba in a four-round lightweight affair against Leon Cavalli (1-1, 1 KO).

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.

The highly touted Rivera (18-0, 12 KOs) was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now fights out of Miami, Fla. The 22-year-old burst onto the scene in his U.S. debut in June 2019 on ShoBox: The New Generation, handing René Téllez Girón his first career loss in one of his three victories that year. Rivera stepped up again in competition in his 2020 debut, stopping Fidel Maldonado Jr. in round 10 of their February clash.

Fighting out of the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas, the Memphis-born Miller (21-1, 6 KOs) has put together an impressive 11-bout winning streak since losing a six-round decision in 2016. The 27-year-old picked up a win over current 130-pound champion Jamel Herring in 2017, and last July he defeated former world champion Jezreel Corrales by decision. Most recently, Miller dominated Marcos Leonardo Jimenez on his way to a unanimous decision victory in February of this year.

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.

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/.

Professional Boxing records in the state of New Hampshire date back to 1886 but the fastest knockout in the state’s history took place this past weekend when Oxnard, California featherweight, Danny Robles knocked out New York’s Antonio Lucaine in 13 seconds as part of Boston Boxing Promotion’s Showcase II which was streamed live on www.YouTube.com/bostonboxing.

Robles, who has been making noise at gyms in the boxing hotbed of Ventura County with his unnatural power, entered the state history books with a single shot knockout that rendered his opponent unconscious in terrifying fashion.

“It was scary for a few minutes. I was relieved my opponent was ok.”, explains Robles who fights out of KnuckleHeadz Boxing in Ventura, California.

“I was really hoping to get some rounds in knowing my opponent had a decent amateur background, but he wanted to trade right out of the gate and that’s a mistake for anyone to do with me.”

As for setting a record that’s stood for decades, Robles is proud of the feat but is anxious to accomplish more.

“It’s an honor to have set a record like that. My team and I were looking to have a busy year and fight every other month in 2020 to help make up for my lack of amateur experience but then the pandemic hit. I’ve been making up for it with some great sparring and now I’m looking to fight as much as possible and keep the knockouts coming. I’m thankful to Boston Boxing Promotions for bringing me out to the east coast and giving me this opportunity to set a record. I look forward to fighting for them again at the start of the new year and having a breakout 2021.”

As Boston Boxing Promotions President, Peter Czymbor adds, “Danny Robles has exhibited extraordinary power in his last two fights, both with us at Boston Boxing Promotions, in the state of New Hampshire. In his fight in August, it sounded like a gun shot went off when he needed just north of 90 seconds to dispose of his opponent with a brutal body shot. We were hoping to see him get more work in his most recent fight this past Saturday, but one well placed right hand ended everything in 13 seconds. In hindsight, it’s exciting to say that the fastest KO in New Hampshire state history happened on one of our events. However, in the moment it was scary. His opponent was able to walk away OK but it was frightening for a few minutes. Robles has the type of terrifying but exciting power that makes him a can’t miss young fighter the boxing world needs to know about.”
ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events in places like Boston, Cape Cod, New Bedford and New Hampshire. Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event, post pandemic, this past August when they held an empty venue show in Windham, New Hampshire that was broadcast for free on YouTube and watched live by thousands of boxing fans worldwide. After the successful event that featured numerous safety protocols including Covid-19 testing, Boston Boxing Promotions returned with another matinee event on October 17th once again for free and broadcast online at www.youtube.com/bostonboxing and will hold their annual Night Before Thanksgiving Event before a limited capacity crowd in Windham, New Hampshire on November 25th.

Liverpool Light-Heavyweight talent Thomas Whittaker-Hart has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will face Bradford’s Jermaine Springer over eight rounds on Saturday November 14, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

Whittaker-Hart (4-0, 2 KOs), a former England and Team GB man who was planning on staying in the amateur game until the Tokyo Olympic Games, trains with Joe McNally at the Rotunda ABC in Kirkdale and has made a perfect start to life in the professional ranks. 

The former English National titlist, who is managed by former WBC Cruiserweight World Champion Tony Bellew, made his pro debut on the Liam Smith vs. Sam Eggington show at the M&S Arena in March 2019, outpointing Poland’s Przemyslaw Binienda.

Three wins have followed for the 25-year-old prospect who will be looking to push on under his new promotional banner, starting with a win over Springer (7-1, 1 KO) next month on an historic World Title triple-header card.

“Tony phoned me a couple of days ago to tell me that I’m signing with Matchroom,” said Whittaker-Hart. “I was made up with the news! It’s the best promotional umbrella to be under at the minute so I was buzzing when I found out. 

“I’m looking forward to performing on the biggest platform. I’m going to showcase what I know I can really do. I’m pleased that I’ve got the opportunity to be able to broadcast my skills to such a big audience on Sky Sports and DAZN. 

“I’ve made a positive start to life in the pros with four wins and two knockouts. I don’t think I’ve showed enough of what I can really do. Now I’ve signed with Matchroom I can start to really push on and I know the opponents are going to get harder, that’s when you’ll see the best version of me. 

“I don’t know a lot about Springer but I’ve seen the odd clip of him. I know that he’s a good step up for me at this stage of my career. I’m more than confident in my ability to get the job done and I’ll be more than ready on November 14. It’s a great show to be a part of. 

“I want to keep on improving and going up the levels. I’m planning on getting to the top – that’s where I want to be. I couldn’t ask for much more with Tony managing me and Matchroom promoting me. Tony has helped me out a lot and he’s got me into a great position. He’s been there and done it so I look up to him massively.”

“I’m very excited about Thomas Whittaker-Hart!” said Bellew. “He’s been out the ring 12 months but I’m confident that within these next 12 months he will be in and amongst the top 3 domestically and ready for the British Title! He’s been working hard and has been sparring with renowned World Champions and vastly experienced fighters! The best is yet to come from Thomas.”

Hart vs. Springer helps shape a huge night of World Title action; Irish star KatieTaylor (16-0, 6 KOs) puts her Lightweight World Titles on the line once more against Mandatory Challenger MiriamGutierrez (13-0, 5 KOs), Denaby’s Terri Harper (10-0-1, 5 KOs) faces her first WBC Mandatory challenger in Spanish-Norwegian KatharinaThanderz (13-0, 2 KOs), Walsall’s RachelBall (6-1) takes on undefeated Australian EbanieBridges (4-0, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBA Bantamweight crown, Swindon Southpaw Jamie Cox (25-2, 14 KOs) returns with a new team after two years out the ring against ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (18-2-1, 9 KOs) and big-punching John Docherty (9-0, 7 KOs) steps up against Jack Arnfield (25-3, 6 KOs).

Diego Pacheco is ready to take the next step in his exciting career as he prepares for his tenth pro fight in Mexico City on Friday night, live on DAZN.
 
Pacheco (9-0 7 KOs) turned over in December 2018 and the rangy Mexican-American has blasted seven of his opponents away inside the distance, and boxed in Mexico, America and Saudi Arabia.
 
The 19 year old hits double figures on Friday night over six rounds against Juan Antonio Mendez (12-2-2 10 KOs), and the South Central LA talent is ready to move up a gear in 2021.
 
“I am in a great place right now in my career, I’m just where I want to be, I’m 9-0, soon to be 10-0, and now talking about becoming a contender,” said Pacheco. “I feel like this is a really critical time in my career but that we’re on the right path to where we want to go.
 
“I’m a lot taller than most of the fighters in my division, which makes me longer than them and I can control the distance, but when I do get in there with people that are my high and have my reach, I think my boxing skill just higher than my opponents and rivals in the division.
 
“I feel like I am ready. People would tell me that they thought I was being rushed because I was fighting every month, I was 9-0 in my first year, but they were doing that for a reason, they could see that I was ready for these fights. 
 
“When the pandemic happened and gave me time off from the ring, I feel like it’s helped me to mature and learn even more, so going into my tenth fight I am ready. I trust in the process and I’m going along with it. Every fight I am getting better, there’s something new each time that I have been working on and whomever they put in front of me, I figure them out and do what works. 
 
“The path I am on right now is taking me to a great place. All the guys I talk to that have more experience than me and have been in the sport longer than me, they tell me to keep going and doing what I am doing, the sky is the limit.”
 
Pacheco’s tenth pro outing is part of a huge night of action in Mexico City, topped by a triple header of mouthwatering World title action.
 
Juan Francisco Estrada (40-3 27 KOs) will defend his WBC and Ring Magazine World Super-Flyweight titles 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 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).
 
Two of Pacheco’s fellow young guns appear on the card as 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 boxes for the sixth time as a pro.

LOS ANGELES (October 20, 2020) – Four-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz previewed his upcoming SHOWTIME PPV main event against Gervonta “Tank” Davis during a virtual media workout Tuesday as he prepares for the highly anticipated showdown taking place Saturday, October 31 from Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Santa Cruz and Davis will fight for the WBA Super Featherweight and WBA Lightweight championships in the rare clash in boxing history in which world titles in two weight classes will be at stake. Other notable instances in recent boxing history are the 1988 Sugar Ray Leonard vs. Donny Lalonde fight for the light heavyweight and super middleweight titles, and the 2014 Floyd Mayweather vs. Marcos Maidana rematch for the super welterweight and welterweight championships.

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.

Here is what the workout participants had to say Tuesday in Los Angeles:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I’m looking forward to being the main event on pay-per-view. We’re going to lay it all out on the line and give a great show for the fans.

“Being the underdog is definitely extra motivation. People think I’m the smaller guy, but I asked for this fight for a reason. I’m ready to prove everyone wrong.

“People thought I didn’t want to fight big names or challenging opponents, so who better to fight than Gervonta Davis? He has great skills and great power. I’m going to show everyone that I’m not scared of anyone.

“This is the hardest fight of my career, so I’m training harder than ever. This is the best camp I’ve ever had and I feel strong and ready. I’ve never been in this good of shape.

“People are doubting me. So that just makes me want to go out there even more and give a great fight. I want to prove myself, compete and give it my all.

“Gervonta doesn’t have the experience that I have. I have to watch out the first few rounds and be careful, but I’m still a warrior who wants to mix it up. We’re going to do a little of both the brawling and boxing. In the end, I know that I have to do whatever I can to win the fight.

“Hearing the fans in the crowd lifts me up. It’s extra motivation. They’re the ones who have got me in this position. I’m preparing hard so that I can give everyone their money’s worth. I’m going to risk it all and come out with the victory.

“It’s very special to be in this position. I don’t have the words to express how it makes me feel. I’m very grateful. This is what I’ve dreamed of since I was a child. Now that it’s here, I just can’t believe it and I can’t wait.

“I’ve learned that you always have to be hungry in the gym. You have to be hungry even if you’re already champion. I train like it’s for my first world title every time. This is the opportunity of a lifetime and I’m going to give it my all.

“When you have a fighter on top of you throwing punches, you can’t think and you can get frustrated. I know he’s going to try to counterpunch me and I have to be smart. But I’m going to use everything in my arsenal to make sure he’s uncomfortable.

“Gervonta is dangerous until the last round. We’ve been practicing avoiding those big shots. I just have to listen to my corner and stay calm.

“I’ll be making history as a five-division world champion from Mexico if I win. I think the winner of the fight deserves to be on the pound-for-pound top 10 list, that just makes this fight even more important.”

ANTONIO SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’s Brother and Co-Trainer

“Leo has put on some muscle and his power has gone up a lot. He’s looking really strong. People say that Gervonta is a monster in the ring, but I think Leo is going to be the monster on October 31.

“We always follow the advice of our father, Jose. He’s making the rules while I’m in the ring with Leo. He knows what he’s doing. He’s proven it fight after fight with Leo.

“Leo has brought his power up in weight with him. When he hits the mitts, I can feel the increased strength that he has. I think it’s going to help him in the ring because Gervonta is going to have to respect that power.

“Gervonta is a knockout artist, but I of course believe that Leo can take him. Leo is smart and so dedicated. He has the extra motivation in seeing our father still here fighting through his cancer. He sees how strong he is fighting and knows he can be strong enough to beat Gervonta.

“I think that Leo is going to throw too many punches and give too much pressure. Leo has the experience and the intelligence to get this win.”

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.

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/.

Savannah Marshall and Hannah Rankin will contest the vacant WBO Middleweight World Title on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Derek Chisora on Saturday October 31, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in the US.

The pair were scheduled to meet on the Lewis Ritson vs. Miguel Vazquez show in Peterborough on Saturday October 17 but Marshall’s trainer Peter Fury returned a positive COVID-19 test, resulting in the fight being postponed in line with the British Boxing Board of Control rules. 

“Honestly it has been a dream to have this fight rescheduled so quickly,” said Marshall. “After the past week I’ve just been overjoyed with the news. I couldn’t have asked for a better or bigger platform than on the Usyk vs. Chisora bill. 

“It was frustrating that the fight fell through, but it’s one of those things. There was nothing I could have done about it. Peter is okay which is the main thing.

“My training won’t change and will just be like any other training routine 10 days out from a fight. Nothing will change. It hasn’t got more personal for me, as me and Rankin are just two girls that can’t wait for a dust up with each other.”

“It is great that the fight has been rescheduled so soon, thank you to Eddie Hearn and Matchroom for sorting it all out,” said Rankin. “Nothing changes for me. I will be crowned WBO Middleweight World Champion on October 31.”

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, said: “It’s fantastic news that Savannah Marshall’s World Title fight with Hannah Rankin has been swiftly rescheduled for the Usyk-Chisora bill, which is fast becoming an unmissable night of action.

“Women’s boxing has never been stronger, with Ellie Scotney showcasing her talent last weekend, and now we can look forward to an all-British battle between Marshall and Rankin, with the WBO Middleweight belt at stake. Savannah, a former Sky Scholar, has those polished amateur skills but Rankin has greater professional experience – it’s an enthralling encounter.

“Lee Selby is also targeting another World Title shot on a stacked undercard, which also features Tommy McCarthy’s European Title fight, before Usyk and Chisora take centre stage, in what promises to be a Heavyweight classic!”

Marshall vs. Rankin 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), Lee Selby (28-2, 9 KOs) and George Kambosos Jr (18-0, 10 KOs) square off in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Lightweight World Title, Heavyweight fan favourite Dave Allen (18-5-2, 15 KOs) returns to action, 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.

Queensberry Promotions can today confirm the return of Friday night fights to BT Sport on November 13th with the announcement of the highly anticipated rematch between British Middleweight standouts Mark Heffron and Denzel Bentley.

The BBBofC have confirmed that the bout will serve as a final eliminator for the British Middleweight title.

UK fans have demanded the domestic duel be rerun ever since their epic September scrap ended with a rare unanimous draw. That wish has now been granted.

Whilst the first fight was arguably the highlight of all post-lockdown boxing, fans were left crying out for more as the ringside judges couldn’t separate the fighters – all three scoring the bout 95-95. 

In the world of social media, neither experts nor fans could unite behind a singler fighter as the rightful winner and, equally, the fighters themselves were both convinced they’d done enough to claim victory.

With no consensus victor from punters, pundits and fighters alike, Frank Warren has taken the only course of action that made sense and booked the rematch.

“The British fans wanted it, so we’ve delivered it” said Warren, adding “it was the easiest decision in the world to put these two back in the ring together.”

“The response to the first fight was overwhelmingly positive. Fans up and down the country were hailing the fight as the best domestic Middleweight scrap in years. With no clear winner, the only thing to do was book an immediate rematch and let these two finally settle the debate once and for all.

“I had the first fight a draw, honestly. I thought Mark was all action and came forward well, but Denzel boxed tremendously, showed great movement and picked his shots intelligently. Denzel scored a big knockdown early, but got hurt himself in the later rounds.

“It’s only right that the fight is an eliminator for the British title. The winner of this will go on and achieve great things.

“This rematch is such a great fight for British boxing fans, and I couldn’t begin to pick a winner. I reckon the bookies are going to struggle to separate them too – it’s the definition of a 50-50 fight.”

Mark Heffron (25-1-1, 19KO’s) said: “I’m so pleased that this rematch has been arranged and I’m back in the ring so quick. You will see a sharper Mark Heffron this time. I know I won the first fight, but in this second one I’m planning on leaving no doubt.”

Denzel Bentley (13-0-1, 11KO’s) said: “Thanks to Frank for getting the rematch on for us straight away and giving me another chance to show the world why I’m the future of this division.”

It was also confirmed that Tommy Fury will return to action on the undercard. Tyson’s younger brother was last seen in action on December 21, and will be looking for another first round stoppage in the Light Heavyweight division. Opponent TBC.

Heffron vs Bentley 2 will air live on BT Sport, Friday November 13th.

NEW YORK (October 20, 2020) – Even with a change in date and then opponent, former world champion Sergey Lipinets remains supremely confident in his training camp and overall preparations as he prepares to take on unbeaten Custio Clayton for the Interim IBF Welterweight Title live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 24 (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“We never missed a beat in preparation, even with the opponent change,” said Lipinets. “My fight with Kudratillo Abdukakhorov was on and off for so long that I already had an idea that he was going to be forced to back out, so I wasn’t shocked. I don’t really care, though. Whoever I have to fight I’m ready to fight, so I didn’t consider backing out of fighting for even one second.”

Lipinets credits his trainer, the renowned Joe Goossen, for helping his fighter mentally through the changes, in addition to the physical training they have undertook heading into the fight.

“Having Joe Goossen is like having a psychiatrist as well as a trainer,” said Lipinets. “He’s been extremely helpful about how to approach all of this. Joe helped me stay calm and understand that something good can always come from a bad or difficult situation, and because of that, I never lost focus.”

Clayton is a Canadian Olympian with an unblemished pro resume heading into this showdown. While Lipinets notes that there are differences in the fighting styles between Abdukakhorov and Clayton, none of it changes his intent on October 24.

“I know that Clayton has a great amateur background,” said Lipinets. “I’ve checked out his style, and the main difference is that Abdukakhorov is more active and Clayton is more accurate. Abdukakhorov is also a little more aggressive and Clayton is more patient.

“I don’t think one is tougher or easier than the other. I think that anyone fighting at this level is a difficult opponent. Abdukakhorov moves around more and can be more awkward with the different styles he uses. Both are very tough guys, but I’m ready for Clayton and focused only on him at this point.”

Despite his sole focus on Clayton, Lipinets knows that this fight brings a big opportunity to make a loud proclamation to the rest of the stacked welterweight division with a big performance to capture the interim IBF title.

“I’m prepared to make one statement – I belong here,” said Lipinets. “I want to fight the best. I want to make my imprint on this sport and build my legacy. I’ve had to do it the hard way, but I’m not complaining. I fought for my first championship in just my 13th pro fight. I believe that I belong right there at the top of this sport. People need to start mentioning my name with the top guys and after this fight they’ll have to. You can’t look past me anymore.”

#

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

Canadian Patrice Volny (15-0-9 KOs) faces off against Patrick Wojcicki (14-0-1-5 KOs) in a final eliminator for the IBF World Middleweight Title on November 14th.

The bout is scheduled to take place at Congress Park in Wolfsburg, Germany and sees both fighters put unbeaten records on the line for a shot at world honours.

Patrice Volny has an opportunity to make a statement, fighting outside his native Canada for the first time in his professional career.

In the opposite corner, Coming off of a TKO victory last time out, Wojcicki will look to impress again before stepping into the world title conversation.

Wojcicki, known by fans as ‘The Wolf’, said the fight is an opportunity he has earned, and one he intends to take full advantage of.

“I have worked for this fight. I have trained hard, taken tough fights and worked with my team around me to get into a position where I’m one step away from a world title shot. My coach, my promoters, myself, we have all really worked for this, I’m not going to let that work go to waste.”

He continued, “Patrice is a fighter who has worked into this position as well. He will be confident and will see the opportunity that lies ahead, but I don’t believe he has what is needed to get past me. I’m ready for this, and I’m ready for what is next!”

Of the fight, Patrice Volny said “This is an amazing opportunity to box in a final eliminator for the IBF World Title, an opportunity like this is not one I could let pass. This is by far the biggest fight of my career, against a very talented opponent – so I’m training like I’ve never trained before. When he steps in the ring with me, he will soon understand why they call me ‘Vicious’.”

Both fighters are undefeated in 15 fights and with the opportunity to fight for a world title there for the winner, the fight is pivotal to what happens in the future of the middleweight division.

Julio Cesar Martinez will now defend his WBC World Flyweight title against Moises Calleros on Friday October 23 at Azteca Studios in Mexico City, live on DAZN.

Martinez (16-1 12 KOs) makes the second defense of his crown and his first on home soil, having defeated Jay Harris in Dallas in February. The 25 year old was due to face fellow countryman Maximino Flores but the IBO champion returned a positive test for COVID-19 and will be unable to challenge for Martinez’s green and gold strap.

Calleros (33-9-1 17 KOs) now has a golden opportunity to change his career overnight in Flores’ place. The 31 year old landed the WBO NABO title at 112lbs last September and fights for World honors for the second time in his career having travelled to Japan in March 2018 to challenge WBO champion Ryuya Yamanaka.

Martinez’s clash with Calleros is part of a bumper World title triple-header in Mexico.

Juan Francisco Estrada (40-3 27 KOs) will defend his WBC and Ring Magazine World Super-Flyweight titles 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 title 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.

LOS ANGELES, CA (October 19, 2020) – Thompson Boxing’s former unified WBA and IBF super-bantamweight world champion, Danny “The Baby Face Assassin” Roman (28-3-1, 10 KOs), is back in the gym and making it clear who he wants next, and that’s WBC super-bantamweight champion Luis Nery (31-0, 24 KOs).

“My last fight against (Juan Carlos) Payano was a WBC final eliminator and I am back in the gym with the goal of getting the green belt against Nery,” said Roman, who is promoted by Thompson Boxing Promotions. “Since I started boxing, I have always wanted to win it and I’d like to make that a reality. I am more focused than ever as I wait for the opportunity to fight for WBC super-bantamweight title. I want to be a champion again and I will prepare harder than ever.”

“Daniel Roman can’t be written off at all, he has proven he is still at the top of his game,” said Alex Camponovo, general manager for Thompson Boxing. “Danny is making it clear that he wants the WBC strap and when he sets his mind on something, he finds a way to get it.”

“Daniel Roman is a consummate professional,” said Eddie Gonzalez, Roman’s manager and trainer. “He was right back in the gym after his win over Juan Carlos Payano and is more focused than ever. He wants Nery because he wants to win the green belt and I think that would be a great action-packed fight for the fans.”

“My desire to be a world champion once again is what’s fueling my hard work in the gym,” Roman concluded. “I know what I am capable of and I fought on the same night as Nery so we should both be ready at the same time. It makes sense and will be great fight for the fans.”

Philadelphia, PA (October 19, 2020) – It has been eight-months since boxing was staged in Philadelphia. It was RDR Promotions presenting a sold out card in it’s inaugural outing that thrilled fans at the 2300 Arena.

On Saturday night, November 7th, RDR Promotions will be back presenting the 1st card since that night as the promotional company will bring back boxing with a six-bout card at the 2300 Arena.

In the six-round featured bout, undefeated Mark Dawson of Philadelphia will take on cross-town rival Vincent Floyd in a welterweight contest.

Dawson, who is signed to Split-T Management, has a record of 6-0-1 with three knockouts.

The 23 year-old, is a four-year professional, and is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over Jordan Morales on March 29, 2019 in Philadelphia.

Floyd has a record of 4-9-1 with two knockouts. The 32 year-old is a seven year veteran has faced six undefeated opponents.

In four-round bouts:

Brandon Mullins (6-0, 2 KOs) of Newark, DE fights Bryant Costello (1-1,1 KO) of Liberty, NY in a super middleweight fight.

Daiyann Butt (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will fight Dieumerci Nzau (11-12, 8 KOs) of Silver Spring, MD super lightweight fight.

Dylan Price (10-0, 7 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a super flyweight contest.

Nafear Charles (4-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia battles David Veras Pena (0-2-1) of Odenton, MD in a super lightweight contest.

Naheem Parker (1-0) of Camden, NJ will fight Joseph Santana (0-3) of Providence, RI in a Lightweight bout.

Tickets are $100 and $75 and must be purchased in groups of four for table seating and can be purchased by emailing rricereview@yahoo.com

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

George Kambosos Jr says he has been training ‘like a man possessed’ ahead of his crucial IBF Lightweight World Title Final Eliminator showdown with Lee Selby on the Usyk-Chisora undercard on Saturday October 31, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

A win for the undefeated Australian (18-0, 10 KOs) would see him become Mandatory Challenger for newly-crowned Unified Lightweight King Teofimo Lopez, who brilliantly overcame Vasiliy Lomachenko by a unanimous points decision in Las Vegas on Saturday.

Hailing from Sydney, 27-year-old Kambosos Jr announced himself as a rising contender in the 135lbs division by defeating former World Champion Mickey Bey on away territory at Madison Square Garden in New York last time out.

‘Ferocious’ will be aiming to make it two wins in two against former champs when he meets Wales’ former long-reigning IBF Featherweight ruler Selby next weekend on an unmissable evening of Halloween fight action.

“Beating Lee Selby means everything to me,” said Kambosos Jr. “I’m hungry, focused and have trained like a man possessed to handle business on October 31st. This is a young man’s sport and Lopez proved that against Lomachenko when he became the Unified Lightweight World Champion and I will prove it once again against Lee Selby.

“This hungry young lion will become Mandatory, that is my complete focus, this is why I have sacrificed so much and then you best believe that ‘Ferocious Kambosos’ will be primed and ready to take all the belts off another hungry, young lion in Teofimo Lopez. Let’s see who the real king of the jungle is.”

Selby (28-2, 9 KOs) edged out Scottish legend Ricky Burns via a majority decision at The O2 in London last October to stay in line for another World Title shot and now finds himself within touching distance of becoming a two-weight World Champion. 

“He’s very confident in himself,” said Selby. “If you listened to him talk you’d think he’s the next Muhammad Ali – which he’s not. Looking at his record, it’s difficult to gauge how good he really is. His best win came against Mickey Bey when he was past his best at 36 and inactive. The rest of his record is padded. 

“This fight has been a long time coming and I’m glad we’re just over a week away now. I’m one step away from a shot at the IBF Lightweight World Title and my dream of becoming Wales’ first ever two-weight World Champion.”

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) collides with Christian Hammer (25-6 15 KOs), 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.

NEW YORK (OCTOBER 18, 2020)–Split-T Management’s IBF Lightweight World Champion Teofimo Lopez became the youngest undisputed champion in the four-belt era by dominating the Pound-for-Pound number-one fighter in the world, Vasiliy Lomachenko over 12-rounds to add the WBC Franchise; WBA and WBO Lightweight world titles in a fight that took place at the MGM Conference Center, AKA “The Bubble” on Saturday night in Las Vegas.

Lopez raced out to an early lead as he set the tone by using a sharp jab, and precision right hands to the body. His offense made Lomachenko very wary to have any aggression of his own as punch stats showed that Lomachenko only threw 58 total punches over the first half of the fight. Lopez continued working behind a nice jab that set up some blistering power shots. Lopez put on a boxing display and beat Lomachenko at his own game.

Feeling a sense of desperation, Lomachenko started to up his pace over the 2nd half of the fight. That led to some good exchanges between the two combatants.

Despite being headbutted that caused a cut over his right eye, Lopez was in control and closed the show in round 12 as he landed a fight high 50 punches in round 12.

Lopez won by scores of 119-109, 117-111 and 116-112 to capture the belts.

Said Lopez, “I had to dig deep, man. I’m thankful. I’m grateful. And each and every day, I take that in. I thank God first because I couldn’t do it without him.

“I’m a fighter. I got to dig in deep. I knew he was coming. I didn’t know if they had him up on the scorecards or not, and I love to fight. I can bang, too. I don’t care, man. I’ll take one to give one. That’s what a true champion does. I find a way to win.

“You just got to keep pressuring him, press the gas, stick the jab and don’t really give him that opportunity to set up. Every time he did want to throw, I had something ready for him.”

“Teofimo was totally dominant, and Lomachenko had no answers for him. Boxing has a new king, and the sport will be better for it. Long live the King!” said Split-T Management’s David McWater.

Photos by Mikey Williams / Top Rank

(October 17, 2020) — The pound-for-pound king is set to reclaim his throne. WBO welterweight world champion Terence “Bud” Crawford will defend his title against former welterweight world champion Kell Brook in a special edition of Top Rank on ESPN Saturday, Nov. 14.
 
In the world championship co-feature, Joshua “El Profesor” Franco will defend his WBA super flyweight title against former world champion Andrew “The Monster” Moloney in a rematch of their June bout, won by Franco via decision.
 
Promoted by Top Rank and sponsored by GEICO, ESPN and ESPN Deportes will televise Crawford-Brook and Franco-Moloney 2 beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, while a full slate of undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

Venue information for Crawford-Brook will be announced soon.
 
“Kell Brook is one of the elite fighters in the world. He has faced so many of the top boxers,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “He is a real test for pound-for-pound great Terence Crawford. This is another premium fight that will be available to boxing fans for no extra charge live on ESPN.”
 
Crawford (36-0, 27 KOs), the pride of Omaha, Neb., has reigned as WBO welterweight world champion since June 9, 2018, when he stopped Jeff “The Hornet” Horn in nine one-sided rounds. He has since defended that world title three times, including a sixth-round demolition over former unified junior welterweight champion Amir “King” Khan in April 2019. Crawford has not fought since last December’s ninth-round TKO over Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas and will enter the ring against Brook coming off a career-long 11-month layoff. He has won seven straight bouts by knockout since a one-sided decision over Viktor Postol in a July 2016 junior welterweight unification bout. Prior to his welterweight world title campaign, Crawford was the lineal lightweight and undisputed junior welterweight world champion.
 
Brook (39-2, 27 KOs), from Sheffield, England, is a former welterweight world champion who made three successful defenses of the IBF title he won from Shawn Porter in 2014. His only defeat at welterweight came to Errol Spence Jr. in May 2017, a competitive fight that ended in the 11^th round after he suffered a broken orbital bone. Since the Spence defeat, “The Special One” has won three bouts at junior middleweight, including February’s seventh-round stoppage over Mark DeLuca. Brook has long campaigned for the Crawford bout, and earlier this year, he ran into Crawford at the Deontay Wilder-Tyson Fury II weigh-in.
 
“You gonna make weight?” Crawford asked Brook.
“You’re running out of opponents,” Brook responded. “I’m here.”
 
Brook said, “I would just like to say a big thank you to Bob Arum and his team at Top Rank and to Baz Kandiara and my management team for getting the ?ght made. Thank you also to Terence Crawford and his team. It’s a fantastic ?ght, a proper ?ght for the fans to get excited about. I’m sure it’s one that will have viewers on the edge of their seats, whichever side of the pond they’re from.
 
“I’ve been told there are people writing off my chances, questioning my age, and my ability to make the weight. Well, let them talk. Some people focus on reading headlines, I focus on making headlines. Those people writing me off as a big underdog? No problem. I guess this big dog will be making a few people richer during a difficult time.
 
“Terence isn’t too much younger than me. They know that I’ve never ducked a challenge, and they should know that I’ve never failed to make 147 on the scales. With age comes experience. My knowledge and experience make me a di?erent ?ghter, a more mature ?ghter. Couple that with a happy fighter, and you’ve got yourself a dangerous fighter.”
 
Moloney (21-1, 14 KOs), from Melbourne, Australia, won the interim world title with a knockout over Elton Dharry last November and was subsequently elevated to world champion. In his first world title defense, June 23 from the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble, he was upset via unanimous decision at the hands of Franco (17-1-2, 8 KOs), a native of San Antonio, Texas, who was previously best known for his action-packed trilogy with Oscar Negrete.

Said Moloney, “I am extremely excited and motivated for my rematch with Franco. I’m very grateful that Top Rank has given me the opportunity to get my revenge and reclaim my world title. I have been working extremely hard every day to make sure that world title is strapped back around my waist on Nov. 14.”
 
Use the hashtags #CrawfordBrook and #FrancoMoloney2 to join the conversation on social media. For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing;twitter.com/ESPNRingside.
 

Rudy Ochoa Jr. (9-0, 5 KOs), Oxnard, CA.
vs. Matt Doherty (8-7-1, 4 KOs), Salem, MA.
8 Rounds, Lightweights

Mike Marrone (21-11, 15 KOs), Vero Beach, FL.
vs. Daniel Martz (19-9-1, 16 KOs), Clarksburg, WV.
10 Rounds, Heavyweights

Brandon Berry (17-5-2, 11 KOs), West Forks, ME.
vs. Bryan Timmons (6-12-1, 5 KOs), St. Joseph, MO.
8 Rounds, Welterweights

Harry Gigliotti (5-1, 3 KOs), Haverhill, MA.
vs. Devin Christie (0-1), Cortland, NY.
6 Rounds, Welterweights

Matthew Tinker (3-0, 3 KOs), Yorkshire, UK.
vs. Jesus Cintron (1-14-2), Springfield, MA.
4 Rounds, Light Heavyweights

Brandon Higgins (4-1, 3 KOs), Chelmsford, MA.
vs. Bruno Dias (0-8), Woburn, MA.
4 Rounds, Welterweights

Danny Robles (3-0-1, 3 KOs), Oxnard, CA.
vs. Antonio Lucaine (0-4), Mt. Vernon, NY.
4 Rounds, Featherweights

Josh Raineri (1-0, 1 KO), Haverhill, MA.
vs. Kyle Cusick (pro debut), Fall River, MA.
4 Rounds, Junior Middleweights

David Tubbs (2-1, 2 KOs), Ventura, CA.
vs. Stephen Stengel (0-1), Windchedon, MA.
4 Rounds, Light Heavyweights
?
Laquan Lewis (4-12-2, 2 KOs), NY, NY.
vs. Shaquan Moore (pro debut), NY, NY.
4 Rounds, Welterweights

Greg Bono (0-1), Watertown, MA.
vs. Robert Bricks (0-3), NY, NY.
4 Rounds, Welterweights

Tyrone Luckey (10-12-4), Galloway, NJ.
vs. Johnny Campbell (pro debut), Whitman, MA.
4 Rounds, Welterweights
ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events in places like Boston, Cape Cod, New Bedford and New Hampshire. Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event, post pandemic, this past August when they held an empty venue show in Windham, New Hampshire that was broadcast for free on YouTube and watched live by thousands of boxing fans worldwide. After the successful event that featured numerous safety protocols including Covid-19 testing, Boston Boxing Promotions is returning with another matinee event on October 17th once again for free and broadcast online at www.youtube.com/bostonboxing.

NEW YORK (OCTOBER 16, 2020)–Tomorrow night at the MGM Grand “Bubble” in Las Vegas, IBF Lightweight world champion, Teofimo Lopez (15-0, 12 KOs) squares off with WBA/WBO/WBC Franchise world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko (14-1, 10 KOs) in the most anticipated bout of 2020.

Lopez is managed by Split-T Management and promoted by Top Rank.

The fight, which will be shown live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN + (Prelims at 7:30 PM ET, with the main card beginning approx. at 10 PM) has been front and center in the minds of boxing fans from all over the world for nearly a year when Lopez won his title with a sensational 2nd round destruction of Richard Commey on December 14, 2020 at Madison Square Garden.

Lomachenko, who many have at the top of the Pound-for-Pound rankings, will be facing his toughest test, when he looks across the ring at the brash 23 year-old Brooklyn native in Lopez.

At Friday’s weigh in, which was highlighted by a piercing stare-down, both fighters checked in at the lightweight limit of 135-pounds.

“Tomorrow night will be Teofimo’s coming out party. It will be the culmination of all the hard work he and his father have put in over eighteen years. It has been an honor for me and the entire Split-T family to have worked with him these last few years, and look forward to him being the youngest undisputed World Champion of the four belt era,” said David McWater of Split-T Management.

Teofimo Lopez Press Conference Quotes:

“Hard work pays off. Eighteen years in, and it’s just the beginning, You haven’t seen anything yet.”

“The Takeover is not just a phrase we throw out there. This is the part where I’m leading the new generation. Winning this is a stamp and a mark to put on for the new era.”

“Get your popcorn ready and just enjoy the show. It’s ‘The Takeover.'”

“A true champion can adapt to everything. It goes for both of us. He fought in arenas sold out. I fought in arenas sold out. My job and my thing are having all of these belts wrapped around me.”

(October 16, 2020) — Unbeaten welterweights Michael McKinson and Martin Harkin will face off in a special edition of #MTKFightNight on Sunday, Oct. 18 from Production Park Studios in Wakefield, England.

The McKinson-Harkin card streams live and exclusively on ESPN+ starting at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT, and it will close out a historic week of fight action on the ESPN family of networks, highlighted by Saturday’s lightweight unification battle between WBC Franchise/WBA/WBO world champion Vasiliy Lomachenko and IBF kingpin Teofimo Lopez (ESPN,  ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+, coverage starts at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT).
 
McKinson (18-0, 2 KOs) had a step-up year in 2019, winning the vacant WBO European title over Russian veteran Evgeny Pavko and besting the previously undefeated Luis Alberto Veron by one-sided decision. He makes his 2020 debut against Scottish upstart Harkin (13-0, 5 KOs), who knocked out the then-unbeaten James Moorcroft back in January.

“Martin Harkin is a dangerous puncher. It’s a dangerous fight for me, but I’ve proven before that I can swim with sharks,” McKinson said. “I’m excited about the challenge, and I’m very excited to fight finally.”
 
Harkin said, “I’m very excited to be fighting. This is a great platform to show people who I am. I’ve slipped under the radar and I’m mostly unknown, so I’m delighted with this chance and I’m going to grab it with both hands.
 
In other streaming action on ESPN+:

• Commonwealth flyweight champion Jay Harris (17-1, 9 KOs) will defend his title in a 12-rounder against former English super flyweight champion Marcel Braithwaite (9-2). Harris last fought in February and dropped a unanimous decision to WBC flyweight world champion Julio Cesar Martinez in one of the best fights of 2020.
   
• Former IBF bantamweight world champion Paul Butler looks to extend his winning streak to six against Ryan Walker (11-2, 2 KOs) in an eight-rounder at bantamweight.
   
• Romanian former kickboxing world champion Amansio Aaraschiv (2-0) will face veteran Scott James (6-6-1) in a four-round middleweight tilt.
   
• In an eight-round welterweight bout, Jack “Demolition Man” Rafferty (12-0, 7 KOs) will take on Tom Hill (9-1, 2 KOs).

 
About ESPN+
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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.

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

    •     Vasiliy Lomachenko 135 lbs vs. Teofimo Lopez 135 lbs 
(Undisputed Lightweight World Title — 12 Rounds)
Judges: Steve Weisfeld, Julie Lederman and Tim Cheatham
Referee: Russell Mora

•    Alex Saucedo 140 lbs vs. Arnold Barboza Jr. 140 lbs 
(Junior Welterweight  — 10 Rounds)

•    Edgar Berlanga 169 lbs vs. Lanell Bellows 169 lbs 
(Super Middleweight — 8 Rounds)

(ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+, 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT)

•    Josue Vargas 142 lbs vs. Kendo Castaneda 142 lbs 
(Junior Welterweight — 10 Rounds)

•   John Vincent Moralde 127 lbs vs. Jose Enrique Vivas 128 lbs 
(Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Quinton Randall 147 lbs vs. Jan Carlos Rivera 146 lbs 
(Welterweight — 6 Rounds)

•    Jahi Tucker 145 lbs vs. Charles Garner 142 lbs 
(Welterweight — 4 Rounds)

Unified Heavyweight Champion of the World Anthony JoshuaOBE will defend his IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO World Titles against Mandatory Challenger Kubrat Pulev at The O2 in London on Saturday December 12, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on DAZN in all of its nine markets including the U.S., on a show promoted by Matchroom Boxing in association with Top Rank and Epic Sports and Entertainment.

Joshua (23-1, 21 KOs) recaptured his belts and position as the Unified Heavyweight World Champion with a masterful unanimous decision victory over Andy Ruiz Jr at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia on an historical night in December that saw the Heavyweight World Titles contested for the very first time in the Middle East.

December 12 will be ‘AJ’s’ first fight on UK soil in over two years, since he defended his crowns with a devastating seventh round knockout of Russia’s Alexander Povetkin at Wembley Stadium, and the former Finchley ABC man will be aiming to deal with Pulev in style to set up an Undisputed showdown against WBC Champion and fellow Brit Tyson Fury in 2021.

Pulev (28-1, 14 KOs), the IBF’s No.1-ranked Heavyweight Mandatory Challenger, gets his second shot at World honours after his defeat to modern legend Wladimir Klitschko in 2014 – the only loss of his 29-fight professional career. He has won six fights in a row since then, including victories over Derek Chisora and an IBF Eliminator win over Hughie Fury in 2018.

The Bulgarian superstar was set to challenge Joshua at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium in October 2017 but was forced to withdraw through an injury and will now get his opportunity to ruin the champion’s plans to face Fury in an all-British blockbuster showdown in the future.

“December 12 is the date and once again the Heavyweight belts go up in the air and it is my sole focus to make sure that come December 13 they are in their rightful place in the UK,” said Joshua. 

“The O2 is the original lion’s den, I have a lot of history with the arena, but without the fans something huge is missing. I am really hoping that, safety permitting, we might be able to bring some boxing fans in, but we will have to see.  I respect every opponent and I respect Pulev. I wish him well during his preparation.”

“For a small country of Bulgaria to stand up for the Heavyweight Titles is a great accomplishment,” said Pulev. “This fight is for my late father and all Bulgarians around the world! I’m coming to London to seize the Heavyweight Championship of the World.”

“After a challenging year for everyone, to end with the unified World Heavyweight Championship is very special,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Over a year after regaining his crown, Anthony Joshua takes on yet another dangerous opponent in Mandatory Challenger Kubrat Pulev. AJ’s resume is unrivalled, and this is the final hurdle until we challenge for the undisputed crown next year. 

“Whilst it’s unusual to think of an AJ fight without tens of thousands of fans in attendance, we will be doing everything we can to lobby for the safe return of fans to this event, we have to move forward together. I know Team Pulev and Bob Arum will be doing all they can to become World Champion on Dec 12 but AJ constantly evolves and improves and I expect a dominant performance and a spectacular KO to close out 2020.”

Bob Arum, Top Rank Chairman, said: “Eddie Hearn better watch out. Kubrat Pulev is going to destroy his plan for a Joshua-Tyson Fury unification fight.”

258 Managing Director Freddie Cunningham said: “Anthony again shows his willingness and desire to chase the Undisputed Title with another tough mandatory fight and despite the challenges of making a fight of this scale during these times it is important for AJ to keep momentum. It will be an exciting way to end the year and unique in every way. We will be working with Matchroom to build a card full of 258 fighters to give the fans entertainment throughout the undercard.”

John Wirt, President of Epic Sports and Entertainment, said: “Crowd or no crowd, we are coming to AJ’s backyard to claim the titles. Come December 12, there will be no more excuses or delays. I guarantee that it will be an epic battle and that Kubrat will stop AJ inside the distance.”

“Anthony Joshua returns to the ring, a year after recapturing his World Titles from Andy Ruiz Jr, and Britain’s Unified World Champion will be determined to reign supreme in a hotly-contested Heavyweight division,” said Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing Development. 

“Kubrat Pulev has proven pedigree, with just that sole defeat to Wladimir Klitschko, and he’ll be hoping to send more shockwaves through the sport with an upset victory, but I know that AJ has been training tirelessly, priming his explosive power for another night of fireworks.

“Tyson Fury will of course be watching – as an Undisputed World Title fight is within touching distance – and AJ cannot afford a slip-up in a blockbuster ending to the boxing year.”

“We’re thrilled to bring the Heavyweight Championship of the World to all DAZN subscribers,” said DAZN EVP Joseph Markowski. “AJ-Pulev will have major consequences for the entire boxing landscape as both men aim to end the year in emphatic fashion.”

DAZN is currently available in the U.S., as well as Austria, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain and Switzerland.

Joe Laws is chasing the perfect 10 having made what he believes is the perfect move in his career.
 
The irrepressible ‘Benwell Bomber’ takes on fellow unbeaten Super-Lightweight Rylan Charlton on Saturday, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US, in his first bout since leaving behind his beloved Toon to base himself in Lanzarote.
 
Already onto his third coach of his career, the 26-year-old (9-0, 5KOs) drops the ‘Jack-the-lad’ persona to say he is deadly serious that this is the route he needs to take to reach the top.
 
“I’ve moved out to Lanzarote where the training is mint and the lads are spot on,” he said Laws. “I’ve really felt the benefit of it. At home I think I was too much in the comfort zone, out there I train go back to my apartment, train again then back to my apartment and so on. I needed a bit of structure and it’s working well for me. To be honest, I can’t wait to get back out there.”
 
Laws will be guided by Champions Gym’s Jonathan O’Brien for the first time in the East of England Arena. The Irishman was a good fighter himself, winning nine and drawing one of his 12 contests. He is in the corner for an acid test with the undefeated Norwich fighter Charlton (5-0-1, 2 KOs) very much a live opponent. 
 
“It’s my hardest fight to date, a big step up, but I’m feeling good and can’t wait for Saturday,” said Laws. “With this pandemic, gone are the days when you are the 70 and the opponent is the 30. This is a good 50-50 fight, but I think that will be where you see the best of me. 

“I’ve been training hard, had some cracking sparring and come Saturday I’m going to perform. I’m going to knock him out, flatten him. I’m throwing with intent to hurt. He’s training to knock me out, know what I mean? Once I get in the ring, it’s personal. Come Saturday I will show no respect whatsoever.”

Even before moving from the Tyne to the Canaries, Laws had shown signs of an increase in maturity as he moves from crowd-pleaser to contender.
 
Gone in his last fight were some of the outrageous swings and he looked so much better for that in a second-round stoppage win against Jan Prokes at the Newcastle Eagles Community Arena at the start of March.
 
“When I hear people say, ‘Laws can’t box’ I laugh my bollocks off thinking ‘yeah, yeah’,” he said. “I’ve come from a very good gym at Birtley ABC. I’ve done hundreds of rounds with Pat and Luke McCormack, Callum French, Thomas Hodgson, Cyrus Pattison and more. Sparring with them has made me a teak-tough kid, but could I do it if I couldn’t box?”

Laws vs. Charlton is part of a huge night of boxing at the East of England Arena in Peterborough, Geordie favourite Lewis Ritson (20-1, 12 KOs) takes on former long-reigning World Champion Miguel Vazquez (42-9, 16 KOs), 2016 Rio Olympian Qais Ashfaq (8-0, 3 KOs) meets Salford’s Marc Leach (14-1-1, 3 KOs) in an Eliminator for the British Super-Bantamweight Title, West Rainton’s Thomas Patrick Ward (29-0, 4 KOs) fights Thomas Essomba (10-6, 4 KOs) over ten rounds at Super-Bantamweight, Birmingham’s Kane Baker (13-7) meets Liverpool’s Meshech Speare (5-0, 3 KOs) over six rounds at Super-Lightweight and Catford’s Ellie Scotney makes her professional debut against Bec Connolly (3-7).

19:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS ARENA

20:15 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS MAIN EVENT

6 x 2 mins Super-Bantamweight Contest 
ELLIE SCOTNEY 8st 13lbs 12oz v BEC CONNOLLY 8st 13lbs 2oz         
(Catford)                                           (Swindon)

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest 
KANE BAKER 9st 12lbs 0oz v MESHECH SPEARE 9st 12lbs 0oz
(Birmingham)                            (Liverpool)

followed by

10 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest 
THOMAS PATRICK WARD 8st 11lbs 3oz v THOMAS ESSOMBA 8st 11lbs 2oz         
(West Rainton)                                              (Wolverhampton)

followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest 
JOE LAWS 10st 6lbs 9oz v RYLAN CHARLTON 10st 4lbs 4oz
(Benwell)                              (Norwich)

followed by

10 x 3 mins British Super-Bantamweight Title Eliminator
QAIS ASHFAQ 8st 9lbs 7oz v MARC LEACH 8st 9lbs 8oz
(Leeds)                                      (Salford)

followed by

12 x 3 mins WBA Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Title
LEWIS RITSON 9st 13lbs 3oz v MIGUEL VAZQUEZ 9st 13lbs 3oz
(Forest Hall)                                (Mexico)

LOS ANGELES (October 16, 2020) – Top heavyweight contender Luis “King Kong” Ortiz will headline a stacked night of heavyweight action when he takes on Alexander “The Great” Flores in the 10-round main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, November 7 from Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see rising unbeaten heavyweight contender Frank “The Cuban Flash” Sánchez battle Brian Howard in the 10-round co-main event. Plus, undefeated Michael Coffie steps in to face hard-hitting Joey Abell in an eight-round heavyweight duel.

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

“Sports fans love the power and drama of the heavyweight division and this lineup on November 7 will provide both in droves,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “‘King Kong’ Ortiz has long established himself as an upper echelon heavyweight, and he will look to work his way back to another title shot against the hungry and game Alexander Flores. With unbeaten heavyweights Frank Sánchez and Michael Coffie in separate bouts on the undercard, this show is built for action from start to finish.”

With exceptional power and sublime technical skills, Ortiz (31-2, 26 KOs) has been a fixture atop heavyweight rankings for years, with his only defeats coming in memorable contests against former longtime heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Born in Camaguey, Cuba and trained by longtime coach Herman Caicedo in Miami, Ortiz won three bouts between Wilder contests, defeating Travis Kauffman, Christian Hammer and Razvan Cojanu. Prior to that run, Ortiz picked up victories over the likes of Bryant Jennings, Tony Thompson and Malik Scott to build up his heavyweight resume.

“I can’t wait to get back in the ring and put on a great performance for all my fans,” said Ortiz. “I’ve been training hard and I’m going to show why I’m still one of the most dangerous and avoided heavyweights around. Credit to Flores for stepping up to the challenge, but I’m planning on making a statement November 7 on FOX.”

The 30-year-old Flores (18-2-1, 16 KOs) will return to action after his last outing saw him stop Mario Heredia in the sixth-round of their November 2019 affair. Fighting out of his native Rowland Heights, California, Flores has fought professionally since 2010, and has scored knockouts in his last 14 victories. The only blemishes on Flores’ record have come against former heavyweight champions Charles Martin and Joseph Parker.

“When I got the call for this fight, I immediately said yes and I was ready to go,” said Flores. “I’m always in shape throughout the year, so now we’re just sharpening the tools for November 7. Ortiz is coming off of a big fight, and I’m preparing for the best Ortiz we’ve ever seen. I don’t know if he’s overlooking me, I just know that I’m going to be ready to take advantage of a life changing opportunity.”

An amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sánchez (15-0, 11 KOs) now trains in San Diego with coach Eddy Reynoso. The 28-year-old added four victories to his ledger in 2019, including a stoppage of Puerto Rican Olympian Victor Bisbal. His 2020 debut saw Sánchez dominate tough contender Joey Dawejko in March on FOX on his way to a unanimous decision victory.

“I look forward to my return so that I can again showcase my skills and make the case that I am a future heavyweight champion,” said Sánchez. “Brian Howard is a very dangerous opponent, but I am even more dangerous. My trainer Eddy Reynoso is preparing me for a spectacular win. I’m a proud Cuban fighting in America in front of millions of people on FOX. It is a dream come true, but only half of the dream. The job will be complete once I become the heavyweight champion of the world.”

Howard (15-3, 12 KOs) made his heavyweight debut in style in August, scoring an impressive first-round knockout over Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron. Fighting out of Atlanta, Georgia, Howard also owns knockout victories over previously unbeaten fighters Shawndell Winters and Alex Guerrero. Howard has won five of his last seven fights since returning from a layoff in 2015.

“I’m really looking forward to this opportunity on FOX against Frank Sánchez,” said Howard. “I’ve been training very hard to be at my best for this fight. I know that I’m going to come to California and be victorious on November 7.”

A Marine Corps veteran who picked up boxing after returning from overseas, Coffie (10-0, 7 KOs) quickly impressed in amateur tournaments enough to earn sparring assignments with Deontay Wilder and Adam Kownacki. The 34-year-old was born in the Bronx, but now fights out of Brooklyn. Coffie most recently emerged victorious in a battle of unbeatens when he stopped Luis Pena in the fifth round of their August matchup on FS1.

“This is going to be a great fight against a really good opponent,” said Coffie. “This is the first step toward getting to where I want to be. Abell is a very credible opponent, and a win will justify me being able to fight higher ranked contenders in the heavyweight division. I can’t wait to go out and put on a great performance on November 7.”

Born in Neenah, Wisconsin and fighting out of Coon Rapids, Minnesota, Abell (35-10, 33 KOs) has faced an impressive lineup of top heavyweights while establishing himself as a tough veteran in the division. Abell has lined up against Tyson Fury, Tomasz Adamek, Oscar Rivas and Chris Arreola to name a few of his notable opponents. Abell owns a knockout victory in 2016 over then unbeaten Wes Nofire on FS1 and most recently stopped Quincy Palmer in the first round of their November 2019 contest.

“I’m blessed to get such a great opportunity to fight on this card,” said Abell. “It’s been a tough year for everyone but I’m looking forward to ending mine on a positive note. I’ve been training like never before. On November 7, I’ll be ready for war.”

#

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

NEW YORK – October 16, 2020 – Unbeaten super lightweight contender Juan Heraldez is deep into training camp and shared insights into his preparations as he nears a showdown against former champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis on Saturday, October 31 live on SHOWTIME PPV in a Premier Boxing Champions event headlined by Gervonta Davis vs. Leo Santa Cruz live from Alamodome in San Antonio.

“It’s been a long eight-week camp preparing for Prograis,” said Heraldez. “We’re fighting a different style of fighter, which is a good thing because he’s the type of fighter who comes to fight. A style like this makes it easier for me to train and prepare.

“Prograis has power, but you have to land it and that’s where my defense comes into play. My defense has always been a factor and it’s something we always tweak and find ways for me to be sharper. On paper his credentials are up there, but in the ring all of that goes out the door. When the bell rings, I’m not thinking about him being a former world champion. I fight and get the job done.”

Heraldez has adapted to the changes produced by training during the pandemic, and has been able to keep focused throughout camp. He credits the infrastructure at the Mayweather Boxing Club, where he trains in Las Vegas, for helping keep things running smoothly as he prepares to face his toughest opponent to date.

“The pandemic has had a slight effect on camp like it has with everything else,” said Heraldez. “There are so many protocols and safety measures, so you can’t just rotate sparring partners as easily as you could before. Adjusting to wearing a mask in the gym and getting tested constantly are things you learn to get used to. The Mayweather Boxing Club has done a great job of keeping the gym clean and safe for all of us. A lot of my stablemates are here in Las Vegas preparing for big fights, so it’s a great feeling knowing that we can come to a gym where safety is the top priority.”

The unbeaten Heraldez will return to the ring after fighting former world champion Argenis Mendez to a draw in May 2019 on SHOWTIME. Heraldez had put together an impressive string of victories dating back to a 2017 triumph over then-unbeaten Jose Miguel Borrego, and included a knockout win over Eddie Ramirez in February 2019 leading into the Mendez fight. Heraldez has continued to fine-tune his arsenal heading into the Prograis fight.

“My team and I have been working on various things such as my jab, but most importantly where I am in the ring at all times,” said Heraldez. “My ring awareness has elevated this camp. My coach and I keep things old school, we don’t have a strength and conditioning coach, we work on the basics and get better at them each camp. Boxing is simple. Stick and move and don’t get hit. The training I get from Coach Otis Pimpleton covers so many things such as cardio, technique, ring IQ, etc., so my job is just to listen to my team and trust them when I’m in camp and in the ring on fight night.”

While Heraldez is looking to improve on the draw in his last fight, Prograis will be seeking to bounce back from his first career defeat, a memorable 140-pound unification clash with Josh Taylor. With both fighters hungry for a win on October 31, Heraldez expects an exciting night for fans.

“On fight night, both of our styles are going to make for great action,” said Heraldez. “We both bring a lot to the ring. We’re both fighting to be the best, but on October 31, everyone will see what I’m capable of.”

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/.

Two-time World Heavyweight Champion Chris Byrd is back in the ring after a prolonged series of health challenges. Following his Hall of Fame worthy career at heavyweight, which included wins over Vitali Klitschko, Evander Holyfield, and David Tua, Byrd (47-5, 22 KOs) suffered from severe neuropathy and chronic pain from fighting far above his natural weight.

“Nobody wanted to fight me at middleweight, so I ate my weight up to heavyweight, And I paid for it. I went through 11 years of suffering. A few years ago, I couldn’t even move my feet apart. The pain in my left leg was so bad that some days I just wanted to cut the whole thing off. I had to make drastic changes and choices in life to get where I am today,” said Byrd. 

Looking chiseled and svelte at 163 pounds, the 50-year-old Byrd’s transformation began nearly three years ago when his daughter was engaged to be married. The idea of being unable to walk her down the aisle pained Byrd, as he was willing to do or try anything that could help improve his condition, and let him be there for the ones he loved. He changed his eating habits – stopped consuming all those things that he was allergic to (wheat, sugar, and dairy) and switched to a plant-based diet.  

A chance meeting with a medicinal cannabis expert proved particularly fruitful in Byrd’s road to recovery. Byrd began a therapeutic regimen of juicing fresh cannabis leaves and utilizing CBD oil and topicals. He consumed ample hemp hearts as a complete source of protein and essential fatty acids. In short order, the ferocious pain he had felt in his left leg and the fatigue that he had battled his entire career began to subside.

By early 2020, Chris had reached a plateau in his recovery “at about ? of where [he is] today.” He then discovered Aaron Cameron, Director of Club Q360, in Malibu, California. Cameron is widely known as the husband of film star and “Real Housewife of Beverly Hills”, Denise Richards. Under Cameron’s guidance, Chris began undergoing radio and sound frequency treatments to treat his neuropathy. According to Byrd, these treatments took his healing to a level – relieving his pain and greatly increasing his mobility.

“Aaron is a fantastic person, unique with a great mind who is an expert in radio and sound frequency work. Doctor’s had told me I would need my shoulders and hip replaced. After my treatments with Aaron, all of that changed. Aaron really wants to see people get healed and he really cares for the people he works with.”

“Chris’ recovery has been nothing short of miraculous,” said Split-T Boxing’s David McWater. “To see where Chris was only a few years ago to where he is now is remarkable. It’s an honor to be able to help him on this path.”

Considering all that he has accomplished in both his professional career and in his dramatic post-career transformation from struggling heavyweight to vibrant and virile middleweight, there is nothing that can stop Chris Byrd.

“I really want to show people that it’s never too late to accomplish your goals, and live out your dreams. My reflexes are razor sharp, my strength is phenomenal, and I’m more focused than I’ve been. I feel I’m ready to make a return to the ring, and with the help and guidance of Split-T Boxing, I hope to make it a reality.

Chris Billam-Smith will take on Deion Jumah for the vacant British Cruiserweight Title on the undercard of Alexander Povetkin’s huge rematch with Dillian Whyte on Saturday November 21, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office. 

Commonwealth Champion Billam-Smith (11-1, 10 KOs) retained his belt in emphatic style last time out at Matchroom Fight Camp in August, using his superior size and strength to blast out Cardiff’s Nathan Thorley in two dominant rounds. 

‘The Gentleman’, trained by Shane McGuigan in Kent, is seeking domestic dominance by avenging a loss he suffered to Jumah in the amateurs before turning his attention to a shot at European honours as he continues to impress with powerful performances. 

English Champion Jumah (13-0, 7 KOs) is undefeated in thirteen fights, winning the Southern Area Title with a fifth round stoppage of Ossie Jervier at York Hall in 2018 before taking out Wadi Camacho in five to secure the English crown in 2019.

‘The Ghost’, a 6′ 1″ southpaw from Chelsea, kicked off 2020 in style as he outpointed Sam Hyde over 12 compelling rounds to retain his English Title, and secure a shot at the famous Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt previously owned by Richard Riakporhe.

“I think it’s a great fight,” said Bilam-Smith. “Me and Dion have shared the ring together in the amateurs and we have sparred as professionals. I think our styles gel really nicely. We both come to fight and we are both always fit. We’re two big punchers so it’s a brilliant fight and one that I’m really excited about.

“He beat me in the amateurs so I’m looking forward to getting me revenge. The British Title is such a prestigious belt and it is a dream for any British fighter to fight for it. I’m absolutely buzzing to add that belt to my Commonwealth. I will become the British Champion on November 21.”

“We have waited too long for an opportunity like this but timing is everything and I’m glad this fight got made when it did,” said Jumah. “Chris Billam-Smith is the perfect opponent for this stage in my career. On November 21 I will be walking away with BOTH the British and Commonwealth Titles. The Ghost Is Coming!”

Billam-Smith vs. Jumah lands on a huge night of action that sees Alexander Povetkin (36-2-1, 25 KOs) rematch Dillian Whyte (27-2, 18 KOs) in a must-win contest for the Londoner and Conor Benn (16-0, 11 KOs) take a huge step up against Germany’s Sebastian Formella (22-1, 10 KOs).

Los Angeles – October 14, 2020 – Ring City USA, a new boxing broadcast and content platform, announced today its first main event and co-feature for November 19, 2020. The inaugural event kicks off a broader, long-term rights deal between NBC Sports Group and Ring City that will feature live boxing events on Thursday nights on NBCSN through 2021.

“We are excited to bring boxing back to NBC Sports,” said Frank Samuel, CEO of Ring City USA.  “This partnership will deliver exciting, highly competitive fights and become a day-in, day-out source of top-notch, unbiased content for fight fans around the world.”

Ring City’s first main and co-main events feature a roundup of impressive young boxing talent squaring up against formidable opponents. Nov. 19 is headlined by resilient super featherweight contender O’Shaquie Foster (17-2, 10 KO’s) and the indomitable Miguel Roman (62-13, 47 KO’s) who will clash in a 10-round showdown. In the co-feature, undefeated lightweight prospect William Zepeda (21-0, 19 KO’s) challenges the skilled Roberto Ramirez (23-2-1, 16 KO’s) in a 10-round contest.  

The fights will take place at Freddie Roach’s legendary Wild Card Boxing Club in Los Angeles. 

“Wild Card is the heart and soul of West Coast boxing,” said Head of Boxing Evan Rutkowski. “Some of the sport’s greatest talent trained and developed there under Freddie’s guidance. As a developmental platform, we couldn’t think of a more perfect place for us to launch Ring City.”

Fighting out of Houston, where he trains under vaunted trainer Bobby Benton and is a stablemate of two-division super lightweight champion Regis Prograis, Foster returns to the ring off of seven straight wins, highlighted by his impressive upset of the previously-unbeaten Jon Fernandez in September 2018. Most recently the increasingly confident Foster headlined “Broadway Boxing,” where he walked away with a unanimous-decision victory against Alberto Mercado. Before turning pro, Foster was an alternate for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Boxing Team and a two-time Junior National Golden Gloves Champion.

“I am so excited to return to the ring and show everyone that I’m the best at 130,” said Foster, who is promoted by DiBella Entertainment. “I’ve sparred with the top guys in this weight class and put in a lot of work over the last year. I’m excited to showcase my talent as the main event on a new series.”

Boxing veteran and three-time world title challenger Roman returns to the ring a little over a year after decisioning former world champion Tomas Rojas. In recent years Roman, who is promoted by Del Pueblo Promotions, has proved gritty in the ring while going toe-to-toe with some of the sport’s best, highlighted by a heroic defeat of Orlando Salido in a thrilling slugfest that was a 2017 Fight Of The Year contender. Known for the valiance and heart he displays in the ring, the 34-year-old Roman challenged Miguel Berchelt for the WBC Super Featherweight title in November 2018, where he was edged in a relentless battle.

“I’m very excited to be back in the ring and guarantee it will be a war that I won’t lose,” said Roman. “There’s no way to beat me when I’m hungrier than ever and training like never before.”

Zepeda returns to the ring after knocking out all but two of his previous opponents. Nov. 19 marks his first professional fight in the U.S. Ramirez, unbeaten in his past 10 fights, is known for his 2018 upset win against former WBC titleholder Dejan Zlaticanin.

Ring City USA will work in conjunction with a variety of promoters including DiBella Entertainment, Del Pueblo Promotions, Golden Boy Promotions and Global Boxing Stars. Local promoters/site coordinators Peter Rasmussen and Steve Bash will oversee the organization of the bouts on behalf of Ring City.

About Ring City USA

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