WEIGHTS FROM ONTARIO

Ruben Torres 135.6 vs. Gabino Cota 135.9
George Acosta 134.7 vs. Ivan Benitez 134.8
Saul Sanchez 118 vs. Victor Trejo 118
Jose Sanchez 127 vs. Luis Montellano 126.8
Richard Brewart 157.7 vs. Erick Martinez 164
Ivan Zarate 121.7 vs. Ulises Gabriel 121.1

Tickets for “Path To Glory” are priced at $40, $60, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel, and ThompsonBoxing.com.

The livestream starts at 8:05 p.m. PT / 11:05 p.m. ET.

The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave., Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at 909-937-0900.

“Path To Glory” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. To follow the conversation on social media, please use #NewBlood, #TBPresents, and #ThompsonBoxing.




KEVIN NEWMAN AND GENC PLLANA TALK TRAINING CAMP AHEAD OF SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TRIPLEHEADER FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

LAS VEGAS – February 20, 2020 – Super middleweight prospects Kevin “The Second Coming” Newman (11-1-1,6 KOs) and Genc Pllana (7-1-1,4 KOs) discuss training camp leading up to their 10-round bout that opens a three-fight ShoBox: The New Generation telecast on Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME at 10:45 p.m. ET/PT from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.

The telecast is headlined by Mayweather Promotions’ undefeated super lightweight prospect Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11 KOs), who is returning for his second test on the series, this time in a tough matchup against the undefeated Keith Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs). In the co-featured fight, 2016 Olympian Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) faces Rhode Island’s Nick DeLomba (16-2, 5 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight matchup.

Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown start at $25 and can be purchased at: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/.

After closing 2019 with a string of consecutive wins, Newman returns with more to prove as he continues to ascend the super middleweight rankings. After defeating Marcos Hernandez in a rematch in November on ShoBox, Newman makes it clear “revenge is always a great feat, but it’s just a small win in the bigger picture and I have more to prove.” He remains hungry and humble, consistently perfecting his craft and learning from the greats before him, like legendary boxer Roy Jones Jr., former world champion Andre Dirrell, and stablemate Andrew Tabiti.

Kalvin Henderson was originally set to face Kevin Newman in a 10-round super middleweight matchup, but later withdrew due to an injury. 26-six-year-old Albanian Genc Pllana will replace Henderson and go toe-to-toe with Newman inside of Sam’s Town Live.

Pllana, now fighting out of Hagerstown, Md., stayed active throughout 2019 with seven consecutive fights. In his most recent bout on December 6, 2019, Pllana fought the undefeated Henderson to his first career draw. Although he had just four amateur bouts to his name, Pllana has the determination to climb the super middleweight rankings and one day become a world champion.

Here is what the fighters had to say ahead of their February 28 contest:

On training camp…

Newman: “Training camp has been going great. I’ve always been a hard worker. It’s just in my DNA to have a strong work ethic. Kobe Bryant is my all-time favorite athlete so when the news came to me about his passing it was just extra motivation for me to push myself, give no excuses, and keep that Mamba Mentality alive. We will not leave any stones unturned come fight night.

“Skills pay the bills and ultimately I’m just the better, more skilled fighter overall.

Pllana: “Training camp has been great for this fight. I feel very prepared and ready!

I know that he’s a very slick fighter and that he’s going to come ready to fight. I expect this to be a very exciting and entertaining fight.”

On the impact Roy Jones Jr. & Floyd Mayweather has had on Newman’s career…

Newman: “I’ve known Roy Jones for going on three years now and Floyd Mayweather for over six years. It’s an honor to have the legends who I looked up to as a kid here mentoring me and to have that access to them is invaluable. I’ve been blessed enough to have access to them and as a student in this game it’s only going to benefit me in the end.

“Two of the most important things I’ve learned from Roy is really just learning how to get all the leverage on all my punches and throwing combinations. From a mental aspect, he’s instilled a championship mentality encouraging me to truly, fully believe in myself and my ability. He always says, ‘You have to give something the people will want to watch and that’s through a dominating performance. You gotta entertain people along the way.’

“With Floyd, I’ve been able to pull from his defense. He’s hands down one of the best defensive fighters and it’s an art to watch him in the ring.”

On how it feels to fight on such a large platform…

Newman: “I’m just blessed. To have another opportunity on SHOWTIME, back-to-back, it really just shows me that I’m doing the right thing. This is God’s plan.

“I always come to win. I don’t know much about my opponent. I know he’s going to come to win and so am I, and I want to get the win in style so the fans at Sam’s Town and around the world can really see my talent shine on fight night.

Pllana: “I feel right at home fighting on such a large platform like SHOWTIME. I can’t wait to show the world what I’m capable of as a fighter. My family has made a big impact on my career by continuing to encourage and push me to be the best I can be.

“A win on February 28 will continue to show why I believe that I am the absolute best fighter at 168 pounds.”

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About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

For more information: visit www.sho.com/sports, www.mayweatherpromotions.com/events, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, and on Instagram @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, #SinCityShowdown and #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, or www.bit.ly/sincityshowdown.




RISING 140-POUND KNOCKOUT ARTIST BRANDUN LEE TO FACE CUBA’S CAMILO PRIETO ON SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION FRIDAY, MARCH 13 LIVE FROM HINCKLEY, MINN.

NEW YORK – February 20, 2020 – Talented undefeated super lightweight prospect Brandun Lee will headline his first ShoBox: The New Generation main event when he takes on Camilo Prieto in a 10-round super lightweight bout that headlines a quadrupleheader on Friday, March 13 live on SHOWTIME (10 ET/PT) from the Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minn.

The four fights include five boxers who have yet to taste defeat with a total record of 107 wins to just three defeats and two draws. In the co-featured bout, undefeated Brian Norman Jr. (16-0, 14 KOs) puts his perfect record on the line as he takes on Flavio Rodriguez (9-1-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight matchup. Undefeated Alejandro Guerrero (11-0, 9 KOs) meets Jose Angulo (12-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight scrap while yet another unbeaten fighter Aram Avagyan (9-0-1, 4 KOs) takes on fellow undefeated Dagoberto Aguero (17-0, 11 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight fight.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions in association with D&D Boxing and Rapacz Boxing, are priced at $75 Ringside, $50 Reserved, $25 General Admission, and $62.50 Table Seating (two-ticket minimum), and are on sale now at ticketmaster.com or the Grand Casino Hinckley Box Office.

“We are excited about our March 13 card, which includes amateur national champions, knockout artists and undefeated fighters,” said Gordon Hall, executive producer for ShoBox: The New Generation. “We open up with a battle of unbeatens and that will be followed by three of boxing’s top prospects under the age of 22. These three very talented prospects all had stellar amateur careers and each are talented in their own way. They all have something in common and that’s power as the threesome have a combined 39 knockouts in their 45 fights. You can expect an action-packed card and certainly some KOs.”

“On March 13th, boxing fans are in for a treat,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “This fantastic ShoBox card is showcasing some of the most talented prospects in boxing. Top to bottom, is going to be a must watch night of fights, shining the spotlight in my opinion, in some of tomorrow’s champions.”

“These are four terrific matchups between up-and-coming young fighters,” said Cameron Dunkin of D&D Boxing. “Brandun Lee has a big test in front of him for his first main event on ShoBox. Brian Norman and Alejandro Guerrero will both be in the toughest fights of their careers as well. All four televised bouts have the potential to be explosive. These are the types of fights that boxing needs.”

Just 20 years old, the knockout artist Lee (18-0, 16 KOs) from La Quinta, Calif., has KO’d all but two of his opponents (88.89 percent), including 11 in the first round, four in the second and one in the third. The third-year pro is making his second ShoBox appearance. In September, Lee scored a second-round knockout against Milton Arauz in his ShoBox debut. (VIDEO). This is Lee’s second fight of 2020 as he knocked out Miguel Zamudio in a non-televised January 17 bout in Sloan, Iowa.

Lee had a decorated amateur career with an estimated record of 196-5. He was the 2015 U.S. Junior National Champion, taking home the gold medal at 145 pounds. With lightning quick hands that also pack power, the exciting Lee has sparred with Mikey Garcia, Devin Haney, Mauricio Herrera, Timothy Bradley Jr., Thomas Dulorme, to name a few. Lee is trained by his father Bobby Lee and is also a full-time college student.

“I’m excited to be headlining my first SHOWTIME show,” Lee said. “I’m looking forward to giving fans something different that they haven’t seen from me before. They’re going to see me display my boxing skills a lot more. In my last two fights, I feel like I didn’t really show how good my defense is. I’m going to use the left hand a lot more to feel him out. And then, when the time is right, I will drop the bombs. Headlining my first ShoBox is a huge accomplishment. It’ll sort of be like graduating the high school of boxing. After this, I hope to move onto the University level of boxing like SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING or Pay-per-View. 

The 33-year-old Prieto (15-1, 10 KOs) is riding a seven-fight win streak with his last loss coming in February 2017. In his last fight in November, Prieto recorded a six-round unanimous decision against Yogli Herrera. Prieto trains at various gyms around Miami and for the past year has been working with former light heavyweight world champion and Roy Jones Jr. conqueror Glen “The Road Warrior” Johnson.

“It’s been great working with Glen,” Prieto said. “I am getting knowledge from an ex-world champion who knows what it takes to be at the top level and has been there before. He knows how to push and guide you the right way for big fights like this. Brandun Lee looks like a young, undefeated fighter to me, but I don’t see anything too impressive, honestly. You can expect to see fireworks that night. I’m going to really come and put Brandun to the test. He’s never faced anyone as good as me. It’s going to be an action-packed fight.”

Norman, the 19-year-old Atlanta resident, like Lee also has won all but two of his fights by knockout. Most recently, Norman earned a unanimous decision victory over Evincii Dixon on January 17 in Sloan, Iowa. Norman goes by the nickname “The Assassin II” as his father Brian Norman Sr. was known as “The Assassin” as a professional boxer from 2003-2011. Norman is trained by both his father and Barry Richardson.

“I’m not looking for just a victory on ShoBox, I want to show off,” Norman said. “I want to show what I can do. I want to break my opponent down and let everybody know I’m here. You can expect to see a lot of fireworks. Both my father and Barry are giving me their all, and I’m giving it back. I know Rodriguez is a short, pressure fighter. He’s basically made for me to beat.”

Rodriguez trains at Capetillo Boxing Academy in East Los Angeles. He had an amateur record of 86 wins and 14 losses and was a silver medalist at the Junior Olympic Nationals.

“Fighting on SHOWTIME is a dream come true,” Rodriguez said. “Growing up, I always wanted to be one of the guys that fought on TV, so it’s pretty exciting to get the opportunity to do so and show the world my skills. A victory would mean a lot to me, especially a win over someone as tough as the guy I’m fighting. I’m hoping a win over him can bring me to bigger opportunities to fight for a world title.”

Guerrero is a big-punching prospect who has won his last three fights by knockout. A celebrated amateur who won two junior national titles, “Pork Chop” has sparred with the likes of Mikey Garcia and Brandon Rios at the famed Garcia Boxing Academy in California. Fighting out of Houston, the 21-year-old will be making his national television debut March 13 and is coming off a second-round TKO of Darnell Jiles Jr. in January of this year. 

“I love that I’m getting this opportunity,” said Guerrero. “I’ve trained for this my whole life. My dream is to become a world champion, so a win would mean so much for me and my family. I’ve been training really hard for this fight, knowing it’ll be on national television. I don’t really know much about Angulo, but we train hard for anyone. The outcome will always be the same. I will always win.”

Angulo, of Guayaquil, Ecuador, will be making his United States debut after fighting 12 of his 13 professional fights in his native country. His lone loss came in his only fight outside of Ecuador, a unanimous decision to Ryan Pino in Puerto Rico. Since the loss, Angulo has rattled off six consecutive wins, including knockouts in the second and first rounds of his last two fights, respectively.

“There’s going to be a big surprise waiting for Guerrero on March 13,” said Angulo. “He likes fighting on the inside and he comes forward with a lot of aggression too, so he’s the perfect style for me and the way I like to fight. I’m looking forward to showcasing myself on this big platform and putting all my skills to work. I will win.”

Avagyan, a 29-year-old from Yerevan, Armenia, represented his home country in the 2016 Olympic Games. Avagyan had an accomplished amateur career, winning bronze medals at both the 2013 and 2015 European championships. Turning pro following the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games, Avagyan won his first eight professional bouts before fighting Russian Evgeny Smirnov to a split-decision in September 2018. His last time out, he made his U.S. debut on the undercard of Canelo Alvarez-Daniel Jacobs, where he handily out-boxed then-unbeaten Francisco Esparza en route to a unanimous decision.

“Every fight is a chance to prove myself and rise to the top,” said Avagyan, who is signed to Salita Promotions. “When I go out into the ring, I only think about winning any at cost. Aguero is just another obstacle that must be moved out of my way. Before each fight, I surrender myself to training one hundred percent so that on the day of the battle, I do not regret the path traveled. Fight night is like a holiday for me because the time has come for which I was preparing.”

The 26-year-old Aguero was an impressive amateur in his native Dominican Republic. Aguero was a silver medalist at the 2011 Pan-Am Games in Guadalajara, Mexico, losing only to future two-time Olympic Gold Medalist Robeisy Ramírez. As a pro, the San Cristobal native won the first 10 fights of his career in his home country before making his U.S. debut in February 2017 when he earned the most impressive win of his young career over Olimjon Nazarov.

“Fighting on SHOWTIME is what we have been waiting for,” said Aguero, who is currently training in Pahokee, Fla. “I look at it as the opportunity to show people who I am and when I win this fight, it’ll be the beginning of a great boxing career where I can feed my family and give my son everything he needs and deserves.”

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports  

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 81 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 




ISAAC CHAMBERLAIN SAYS DEONTAY WILDER HIT HIM SO HARD HE THOUGHT HE WAS BACK IN LONDON…BUT HE’S A REALLY COOL GUY!

London, UK (20 February 2020) Ahead of the big Deontay Wilder-Tyson Fury World title showdown this Saturday night, London cruiserweight hotshot Isaac Chamberlain has told of what it’s like to take a punch from one of the hardest hitting heavyweight world champions in history.

The 25-year-old from Brixton was selected by Wilder to help him prepare for his WBC World Heavyweight title challenge against Bermane Stiverne in 2015 that he won on points  to begin his now five-year reign.

Wilder possesses freakish power in both hands that have iced 41 out of 43 opponents and every fighter who has taken a shot from him in a fight or in sparring – from David Haye to Tyson Fury – has talked about his almost super-natural power.

Chamberlain said, “At the time I was 20. It was just amazing. I remember in the hotel room just after we landed. They said, ‘Guys just so you know Deontay really wants this world heavyweight title’. It was before Bermane Stiverne and they brought me in for the speed and agility. They were like ‘Deontay really wants to win this world title so he’s going to go really hard so if you want to go now is the chance’. For me now I was treating the sparring sessions if I was preparing for a fight. I was the first person in and I did well. Some of the sparring partners were trying to get a bit tasty and he would ice them out. I was thinking to myself, ‘What the f***?’. The second time we were there in sparring they said they were only going to use me that day. I think it was because I done better all the sparring partners that day. I remember he did one thing that was completely different, I left myself open after throwing a jab and he threw a right uppercut. Everyone was surprised I was still standing. He hit me that hard I thought I was back in London! He’s a really cool guy, he would speak with me after and tell me what I should work on. He was a great person to spar with.”

The pair became great friends during Chamberlain’s time sparring with Wilder in Alabama and still stay in contact now.  He added, “It was great. We would go out to eat like a family. Even me and Deontay speak now. We message each other. It was a great experience being out there and sharing a ring with him and becoming friends with him.”

‘Chambo’ has also spared with the IBF, WBO, WBA Super World Champion Anthony Joshua and described the different types of power between the two kings of the division.

He said, “I think Wilder and Joshua’s power is very different. I’ve sparred Joshua as well. Wilder’s is like a sniper rifle, if he hits you then you’re going to go to sleep. Joshua’s power is like sledgehammers. Wilder you want to go sleep instantly and I have seen him do that. It’s a sharp pain, rather than a big blow like Joshua. It was a great experience for me. I was one of the best sparring partners they had. They wanted to sign me because of how well I did in the sparring.”

Going into the rematch between Wilder and Fury, Chamberlain finds it a very hard to call a winner. He said,  “I don’t know, I really don’t know. Just because of the opposition Wilder has faced, Tyson Fury had that massive cut too so I don’t really know what will happen. I will edge to Wilder, especially because he’s my boy.”

Chamberlain (10-1-0, 4 KO’s) recently signed a long-term promotional deal with renowned promoter Mick Hennessy of Hennessy Sports and will feature on two shows within four weeks as he kick-starts his career and gets back on track for a World title shot.

First he features on the undercard of Shakan Pitters against Craig Richards for the British Light-Heavyweight Championship at the Coventry Skydome on Saturday 28th March and then on the undercard of Alex Dilmaghani’s challenge for the European Super-Featherweight title against Champion Samir Ziani on Saturday 25th April at the National Sports Centre, Crystal Palace. Both fights are exclusively live in the UK on free-to-air Channel 5.

He added, “Signing with Hennessy Sports is a big thing for me. I will fight on Channel 5 which is free TV. It’s been a long-time coming. I’ve had a lot of interest since I signed with Hennessy. It’s good. I’m excited. I’m excited for the next stage in my career. He has a track record of building great fighters like Tyson Fury, Carl Froch, James DeGale, Darren Barker, Junior Witter, Chris Eubank Jnr. I definitely believe this is the right moment and right step in my career.”




WILDER VS. FURY II UNDERCARD FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (February 20, 2020) – Fighters stepping into the ring this Saturday, February 22 on the Deontay Wilder vs. Tyson Fury II undercard previewed their respective showdowns at the final press conference Thursday before they step into the ring at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The press conference featured fighters competing in the PPV undercard, including former heavyweight champion Charles Martin and former title challenger Gerald Washington, whomeet in the co-main event, WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete, a.k.a. “The Mexican Iron Man”, and Filipino contender Jeo Santisima, who battle in the PPV featured bout, and unbeaten super welterweights Sebastian Fundora and Daniel Lewis, who fight in the PPV opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Also squaring off Thursday were fighters who enter the ring for Wilder vs. Fury II Prelims beginning at at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT, including hard-hitting unbeaten contender Subriel Matias and Petros Ananyan, who meet in a super lightweight showdown, plus contenders Amir Imam and Javier Molina, who will fight in a super lightweight attraction.

Prelims will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT on FS1, ESPNEWS and in Spanish on FOX Deportes and ESPN3. ESPNEWS’ coverage will switch to ESPN at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Rounding out the lineup and appearing at Thursday’s event were unbeaten prospect Rolando Romero, who takes on Arturs Ahmetovs, rising prospect Gabriel Flores Jr., who faces Matt Conway, 17-year-old sensation Vito Mielnicki Jr., who battles Corey Champion, and unbeaten featherweight Isaac Lowe, who will fight Mexico’s Alberto Guevara. These fights will be available on the FOX Sports App and ESPN App beginning at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Media Center at MGM Grand:

CHARLES MARTIN

“I can’t wait for this. I’m not letting anything get to me, I’m just here to work. I grew up and I am more mature. I am ready to take on the heavyweight division. My prediction is that I’m going to stop him in four.”

“This is going to get me in another good spot and it’ll put me on the way to get my heavyweight title back. This fight is coming at a great time in my career and I feel ready for Saturday.”

“It’s a blessing to be in this position. My whole family is going to show up and we’re all excited. My cousin is even going to walk me out to the ring. We’re excited to be a part of this big card.”

“Me and Washington sparred a while back, but you have to remember that some people are gym fighters and some perform when the lights are bright. Personally, my sparring has nothing to do with how I perform when it’s go time.”

“I’m a heavyweight and we come to deliver knockouts. That’s all I know how to do. Knockout in four. That’s what’s happening Saturday night.”

GERALD WASHINGTON

“I’m very excited. We put together a great training camp, I went around the world. I went to London to work with Derek Chisora, and I went to Saudi Arabia and worked with Andy Ruiz. I brought a great team together and we are just ready to go to work.”

“I was able to turn myself into Gerald Washington 2.0. I have always had the physical part down, I always work hard and train well, but it is the mental side that you need to put together to be a complete fighter and that is where I am at now. I have a great group of people around me.

“Those who know boxing, know that it’s hard, and everyone goes through their own demons. I took a loss and it didn’t go my way, but to be able to pick yourself up and keep going, you build that strength. You become a new person and I’m carrying all that with me. I know what that loss felt like and I’m on a personal mission for me to complete my goals.”

“We are locked in mentally. I did everything to prepare myself for this fight, we are in great shape physically and mentally.”

I know Martin well, and he’s a hard-working fighter. We will be cool before the fight and we will be cool after, but we are fighting for a title eliminator and we both want the same thing.”

“It is going to be a good, tough fight. He is going to be tough and it is going to be an exciting fight.”

EMANUEL NAVARRETE

“I always say yes to a fight. Even though I’ve been fighting quickly fight after fight, I have always come out with good health. That makes me ready for the next fight that comes up.”

“I think my next fight will depend on Saturday’s results. I do think it is more convenient and realistic to move up in weight than to wait for a unification fight.”

“Preparation for this fight has been excellent. This is another great opportunity that has been given to me and I will demonstrate once again that I’m the best at 122-pounds”

“I’m going for another knockout victory and after that I would like to unify. If that doesn’t happen, I’ll probably move up to challenge the champions at featherweight. I want to be a global superstar for the sport of boxing and I’m well on my way”

“i draw inspiration from the other iconic fights between Mexican and Filipino fighters that have taken place right here, especially Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez. It’s going to help me put on another good performance on Saturday.”

JEO SANTISIMA

“I’m very excited and I had a really good camp. We’re ready to put together a great performance and achieve my dream of winning a world title.”

“I’m going to be like Manny Pacquiao and win a world title in my first fight in the U.S. Achieving that is a huge motivation for me. It’s an opportunity I’m going to take advantage of.”

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I walk around at this weight. I came to Las Vegas at 157 pounds. I don’t know exactly how it’s so easy, but I make the weight easily and I’m going to be in this division for a while.”

“We have different strategies for different fights. Whatever the fight presents and whatever my opponent brings, we’ll be ready.”

“I believe this fight is going to be very entertaining. I’m coming for the knockout. Expect a great fight with exciting action. We won’t disappoint.”

“I’m excited to be on a card like this. It’s another great step for me, with a real challenge against a good undefeated fighter. I’m going to bring the fight to him.”

DANIEL LEWIS

“We’re just ready to fight. We will fight them all, and we will fight the best. We fought in Los Angeles in November, got the win there, and now we have another opportunity to get a good win. That’s what we are going to do.”

“Working with Terence Crawford was another great opportunity that we took on. Getting into camp with him was amazing. He has such high spirits and is so fast, he is hard to hit. It was a great experience early in my career.”

“I’m very grateful for such a big opportunity. We’re here to make this a great fight and put on a good show for everyone watching.”

SUBRIEL MATIAS

“I’m very thankful for this opportunity. My team has gotten me in great condition and worked with me every day in camp so that I’m ready for Saturday night.”

“I’m very excited to be in this position. I promise you that you will not regret watching this fight. We’re going to bring action.”

“To my opponent, thank you for taking this fight. I’m here to realize my dream with a win on Saturday and I’m not letting anyone stand in my way.”

“I’m not worried about what’s in store after this fight. I’m just focused on Saturday night. I’ll leave the rest to my team, but I’m definitely putting the whole 140-pound division on notice.”

PETROS ANANYAN

“I know my opponent has a powerful punch, but I’ve worked very hard to accomplish my dream. This is very important for me.

“I’ve had great sparring and I’m ready for anything that could happen in the ring. I thought I should have gotten the decision in my last fight, but Saturday I will be able to start a new winning streak.”

AMIR IMAM

“This will put me high up in the rankings, so I am looking forward to putting on a great show and displaying my talents”

“The chemistry with my team is great. We have fun, but we work really hard. I want to thank my manager for putting me in a great position, and I am ready to put on a show.”

“Molina is just as tall as me, he’s just as quick as me, but I think I have more experience than him due to the title fight. Skill-wise I believe I am just better than him as well.”

“I know I have power, but I’m not depending on that. I am going out to perform my best and win any way I can, whether that be a decision or a knockout.”

“It’s a blessing to be in this position, and I plan to take advantage of every opportunity that’s put in front of me.”

JAVIER MOLINA

“I feel like I have to make a statement in this fight. Just a little over a year ago I was struggling to even get a fight. I’ve been active since then, so I think this fight is happening at the perfect time for me.”

“Imam is a tough fighter and a win gets me that much closer to a title. We’re prepared and ready for anything he brings to the ring.”

“I’m glad to be in this position. I didn’t think it would take this long, but we’re here now. I’m going to take full advantage of this opportunity in front of a lot of eyeballs.”

ROLANDO ROMERO

“I’m going to get another first round knockout Saturday night. If you know me, you know that when I say I’m going to do something, it’s going to happen.”

“One punch is all it takes for me. I believe I’m one of the hardest punchers in boxing and the hardest puncher under 147-pounds. There’s no doubt about it, I’m getting a first round knockout Saturday.”

GABRIEL FLORES JR.

“I try to get better and better each performance. That’s how I learn from my mistakes. I want to put on a great performance Saturday night.”

“Back in 2013 I lost my mom, and that was tough. It was someone I was used to seeing every day. Once I heard about Kobe Bryant, I could only think about the rest of his family. I know part of that pain. For me, this fight is for everyone who’s ever felt that pain.”

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“I’m balancing training and school, but I want to graduate to six-round fights and show I’m more than just a 17- year old prospect. I’m here to stay.”

“Being on this stage motivates me, because one day I want my face to be on all the posters and art all over MGM Grand. I’m really motivated to keep working hard and get the job done each and every time out.”

ISAAC LOWE

“I have a good opponent who’s only been beaten by the best. He’s fought world champions and quality fighters, so this is a big step up for me. If I win and put on a good display, it’s going to put me right in the mix with the top fighters.

“You’re going to see on Saturday night that 2020 is my year. I’ve got a worthy opponent who’s going to come to win. So I’m ready and I can’t wait to show the world that I’m a world level fighter.”




Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda Training Camp Notes

LAS VEGAS (February 20, 2020) – Undefeated super lightweight Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda (17-0, 8 KOs) has been in training camp since the beginning of this year in Boxers & Brawlers gym in his San Antonio hometown to prepare for his February 28th fight against North American Boxing Organization (NABO) champion Yomar “The Magic” Alamo (17-0-1, 12 KOs) airing live on Boxeo Telemundo, starting at 11:30 p.m. ET / 8:30 p.m. PT, from Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee, Florida.

Alamo vs. Castaneda is co-promoted by All-Star Boxing, which promotes Alamo and the event, and Castaneda’s promoter, Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions.

“This is the biggest fight of Kendo’s career to date,” CEO & Co-Founder Keith Veltre said. “He is the type fighter who doesn’t back down from anyone and knows what it takes to get the win. Kendo trains hard and we are fully confident that he will come home with the win.”

The 26-year-old Castaneda, who is ranked No. 15 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), will take on WBO No. 8-rated Alamo, the defending NABO super lightweight champion, in the 10-round main event.

Castaneda captured the vacant North American Boxing Association (NABA) crown a year ago, taking a 10-round decision from previously undefeated Gilbert Venegas, Jr. (10-0), and followed that with an impressive 10-round unanimous decision over Dominican veteran Eudy Berbardo (24-3).

Last October in Reno, Nevada, Castaneda stopped Stan Martyniouk (20-3) in the sixth round, after which he was installed by the World Boxing Organization as its No. 15 rated super lightweight in the world.

WBO No. 8 ranked Alamo, fighting out of Puerto Rico, is coming off the lone blemish on either fighter’s pro record, a draw with Antonio Moran (24-4-1).

Alamo, 24, is the former World Boxing Council (WBC) Youth World and FECARBOX super lightweight champion, who has made three successful NABO title defenses.

Training Camp Notes
(quotes from Kendo Castaneda)

Training Camp: “Everything here has been good. I’m ready to rock and get back in the ring. I’ll have no trouble making weight for this fight. My sparring partners are local guys, some pros, and other amateurs. I like helping up-and-coming fighters who want to turn pro. They have natural speed at 18, 19 years old, but their strength hasn’t fully developed, yet. They learn and I get good work. My No. 1 sparring partner, Limon, has had more than 100 amateur fights. His style is similar to Alamo’s. He’s tall and lengthy, but not as powerful as Alamo. He throws great jabs and boxes well, which will help me when I fight Alamo.

Yomar Alamo: “He fights off his back foot a lot. He likes to box and is a good counterpuncher.
He’s undefeated but who knows how he wants to fight? I like razzle-dazzle and I’ll quickly learn what I’m in for.”

Fighting in Alamo’s backyard: “I’m not concerned about that at all. My first fight with RJJ Boxing was in Las Vegas against a local fighter, Chuy Gutierrez, and I won that fight. I don’t mind fighting in my opponent’s backyard and I’m getting used to it. My last fight was in Reno against a California fighter, who lived a lot closer to Reno than I do in San Antonio. And I fought a local fighter in New Hampshire, when I had a bare-knuckle fight.”

How do you envision this fight going: “Alamo will go into the fight thinking it’s going to be a boxing match, almost like an exhibition starting the fight. But I’m going to go in strong, like a street fight, banging him around. I’ll catch him with some surprises, throwing hard blows. In the third or fourth round, I’ll start boxing more. Then it’s going to be too much for him, and I’ll take him out in the eighth or ninth round.”

Bout importance: “I think I’ll possibly get a world championship eliminator fight with an impressive victory. I’m a rare, old-fashioned boxer.”

Prediction: “The referee will be announcing, ‘And the new NABO champion…..’”

INFORMATION:
Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @KeithVeltre, @KendoTremendo
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @KeithVeltre
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /KeithVeltre

ABOUT ROY JONES JR, BOXING PROMOTIONS:

Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. RJJ has already made a huge impact in the boxing community in a few short years. Creating exhilarating content for CBS Sports, Showtime, ESPN and beIN Sports in some of the finest venues across the country, RJJ has proven it is conquering the sweet science of the sport.

Based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable: WBO #6 rated bantamweight Max Ornelas, featherweight Ray Ximenez, WBO #15 rated super lightweight Kendo Castaneda, middleweights John Vera, Connor Coyle and Shady Gamhour, super middleweight Juan Barajas, and heavyweight Alexander Flores.




BAD PROMOTIONS RETURNS TO GULFSTREAM PARK OM MARCH 20TH AFTER SELLOUT DEBUT

Hallandale Beach, FL – BAD Promotions in association with ChampionsHeart returns to The Sport of Kings Theatre at Gulfstream Park & Racing in Hallandale Beach on Friday, March 20, 2020, with “Only The Strong Survive 2” for another sensational night of High-Class Professional Boxing & Entertainment!

As a follow-up to their highly successful sold out inaugural show in January of 2020, BAD Promotions in association with ChampionsHeart have secured four future dates filling the 2020 calendar at their home Sport Of Kings Theatre at Gulfstream Park and Racing in Hallandale Beach, Fl. Executive Director Johnny Farace and founder CEO Blake Davis have been working close with top names in the business securing deals to take the series worldwide. Next up on the Calendar is March 20, already with 9 bouts scheduled and two additional main card bouts to be named shortly.

Right back in the action is 25 year old boxing entrepreneur Blake BAD Davis 5-0 as he comes off of a big win both inside and outside of the ring while debuting his own boxing promotional company. Davis felt great after his match and is eager to get back in the ring in March. Davis has caught praise of many boxing insiders after his highly successful promotional debut and is beam-lined focused to continue his strive for ultimate success both in and out of the ring.

In a Special female attraction is Australian/Swiss boxer Avril Mathie 5-0-1(2KO) who is fresh off of her TKO win on DAZN’s Miami Fight Night in January. Mathie the former ‘Miss USA Swimsuit International’ started boxing late in 2012, and had her first amateur fight within 6 months. Five years and 20 amateur fights later, she began her professional career in December 2017. Mathie is now based between Miami FL and Athens, Greece.

Hard hitting fan favorite Dustin DGA Arnold is back in action in his debut with BAD Promotions. Arnold has forged his skills in the professional ranks while training among the best in boxing and thrilling fans with a number of fire fight matchups along the way to his outstanding 6-2 record! DGA has played spoiler and always brings the fight to the fight. Expect a fight of the night performance out of Arnold!

Exciting Esteban Mussio 1-0 makes his return to “Only The Strong Survive 2” after his big win at OTSS1, “Maxi” promises his second bout will be his best.

Cuban amateur star now living in Miami Beach, Enmanuel Guerra 3-0 (1KO) makes his much anticipated South Florida debut.

Local Brazilian favorite Daniel Araujo Figueiredo 2-0(2KO) will get his chance to shine after his opponent failed to meet obligations for OTSS1.

Six-time state and three-time national amateur champion Gaspard “Sweet Feet” Pierre will make his professional debut. The former Elite Amateur athlete is a member of the Haitian National Team ahead of the 2020 Olympics Games in Tokyo, however is taking his talents to the pro ranks.

Six-foot ten James “Big Jim” Tourney will make his professional boxing debut. Big Jim, an Irish Boston born former Division 1 Basketball star with movie star looks and a devote Christian will be something to watch on March 20th. Big Jim has crazy athletic skills and moves like a middleweight, while punching like a giant.

Tickets for “Only The Strong Survive 2” are on sale now and cost $65, $120, $200. Sofa Loungers, VIP Tables, including 4 Premier Elevated Ringside VIP tables are also available.

Tickets are available through www.BADPromotions.com

Hallandale Park & Casino is located at 901 Federal Hwy in Hallandale Beach Florida, the FIRST BELL will RING at 6 PM sharp in the beautiful Sports of King Theatre on the second floor. Doors Open at 5 PM.




Two-Division World Champion Michael Spinks Confirmed for Sixth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Cinco de Mayo Weekend, Saturday May 2, in Las Vegas

Las Vegas (February 20, 2020) – Two-division world champion Michael Spinks has confirmed that he will appear at the sixth annual Box Fan Expo on Saturday, May 2, 2020, at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

The Box Fan Expo is an annual fan event that coincides with some of the sports’ legendary, classic fights in Las Vegas, including Mayweather vs. Maidana II, Mayweather vs. Berto, Canelo vs. Chavez Jr., Canelo vs. GGG II, and Canelo vs. Jacobs. Centered in boxing’s longtime home – Las Vegas – this year’s Expo is a must-do for fight fans coming in for this legendary weekend, with dozens of professional fighters, promoters, and companies involved in the boxing industry. The Expo is the largest and only Boxing Fan Expo held in the United States. http://boxfanexpo.com- @BoxFanExpo

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:
https://bitly.com/BoxingExpo2020

Spinks will make his second appearance at this years’ Expo and will be signing gloves, photos, personal items and memorabilia. Spinks will also have merchandise on sale at his booth, and fans will also have an opportunity to take pictures with this boxing legend also known as “Jinx.”

About Michael Spinks
Spinks is a two-division world champion, having held the undisputed light heavyweight title from 1983 to 1985, and the lineal heavyweight title from 1985 to 1988. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1994. As an amateur he won a gold medal in the middleweight division at the 1976 Summer Olympics.

Spinks is the brother of former world heavyweight champion Leon Spinks, and uncle of Cory Spinks, a former welterweight and light middleweight champion.
Spinks went undefeated in his first 31 professional fights, beating such opponents as Dwight Muhammad Qawi, Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, Marvin Johnson and Eddie Davis en route to becoming the undisputed light heavyweight champion. Following ten successful title defenses, Spinks moved up to heavyweight, and as an underdog defeated long-reigning IBF heavyweight champion Larry Holmes; in doing so, Spinks became the first reigning light heavyweight world champion to win the heavyweight title. Spinks only defeat in his professional career came to the hands of Mike Tyson on June 27, 1988. The International Boxing Research Organization and BoxRec rank Spinks among the ten greatest light heavyweights of all time.

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

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

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

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

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available at Eventbrite –
http://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com/

To request information on exhibiting and sponsorship at the Expo:
For media credentials:




FOSTER v REID 2 PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

FOSTER V REID 2: PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
THE LEAD CHARACTERS from Saturday’s show at York Hall assembled today a short distance from the venue to preview what promises to be a cracking night of boxing on BT Sport and ITV ahead of the BT Box Office blockbuster between Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder over in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
Brad Foster vs Lucien Reid tops the bill in a rematch with the British and Commonwealth super bantamweight titles at stake following a majority draw at the same venue in September. Kody Davies also faces Umar Sadiq in an official eliminator for the British super middleweight title.
Unbeaten super middle Willy Hutchinson and top bantamweight prospect Dennis McCann were also in attendance and below are selected quotes from the media gathering.
Francis Warren
It is very exciting to build up the career of someone like Dennis McCann from scratch. He is sitting there with a wry smile and a Dennis the Menace scarf on, but when he gets in the ring he is all about business. He is doing things that are being likened to a certain Naseem Hamed, but he is very much his own man and is very much managing his own way in this sport. He has not put a foot wrong and if he keeps working hard and listening to Alan Smith at the Queensberry iBox Gym then I can’t see too much going wrong for Dennis.
Willy Hutchinson is another real gem and it is a pleasure to work with him. He is talking about dropping down to super middle so he will be very interested in the big Davies-Sadiq fight and him against the winner would be an interesting fight to make later this year. Willy is a guy we have put a lot of focus and attention on and is someone I firmly believe will win a world title.
I rate the Umar-Kody fight highly and it has been given official eliminator status by the Board towards the British title currently held by Lerrone Richards. These two guys didn’t have to take it and a lot of fighters in their positions would have taken an eight rounder to keep ticking along. They want to show who the best in the stable is and this is the way to prove it.
I think Brad and Lucien is the biggest rematch on Saturday, without a doubt! It was a terrific fight first time around and, if Brad is honest with himself, he didn’t turn up with the full capabilities he’s got and, if Lucien is honest with himself, he surprised everybody with what he did over 12 rounds. They both know what each other are about now and they will look forward to this even more than the first one just to prove a point. I can’t wait to see it again.
Dennis McCann
I will definitely have to be patient because it is Francis’ and Alan’s job to keep me back. To be honest, I would fight anyone in my division right now and the weight above, it doesn’t bother me at all. I have been sparring with some big kids and none of them can deal with me, so when I go in with someone my own size I take them out in four or five rounds. Being compared with Naz is a very good thing but there is only one Dennis McCann and I am going to be a world champion too. I have watched him loads of times and he Facetimed me once. He has put a bit of beef on, hasn’t he? I will be that size too when I have retired!
Willy Hutchinson
It is all about learning. I’ve had 10 fights now and this will be my 11th – I am just learning and progressing. As long as I keep winning and moving forward, that is the main thing. My partnership with Dom Ingle has gone very well and he takes care of me. I have just got married and have got my wife now, but Dom is still helping me out and makes food for me and stuff. I am always with him and we have got a good relationship that will hopefully go all the way to the top. I am still only young and it is time to make super middleweight and make some noise. Kody and Umar are fighting at the weekend and I wouldn’t mind fighting the winner out of them.
Umar Sadiq
I didn’t see my loss to Zak Chelli as a setback and I’d rather lose early in my career than later on. I have six fights since and have backed myself because I know where I am going and I know my capabilities. I have stopped five out the last six fighters I have boxed, although they were not fighters with winning records, but the result is I am doing what I am supposed to do. I am now back to where I should have been a year ago and I am looking forward to this fight. I am really happy and appreciative of Kody’s team for taking this fight because a lot wouldn’t and when they took it, it wasn’t even an eliminator. It has been very hard for me to get matched since losing to Zak so I am really happy and on Saturday night the fans are in for a great show. I am confident I am going to stop him.
Kody Davies
I see the fight going how I want it to go. Me and Gavin Rees work every day and Gavin has got the recipe to be a world champion and I follow it day in, day out. I don’t concentrate on my opponent and what he can do, I concentrate on myself and my ability to adapt to what is in front of me. Respect to Umar for taking this fight. People say you don’t have to take this fight or that, but the reality is for me I have got to take these fights because it is my life. It is my job, not a hobby, it is what I do and it is in my blood. Anything that will progress my career I will take with both hands, simple as that. I will be calm, collected and will put on a fantastic display. If I knew super middleweight would be this easy to make when I turned pro I would never have boxed at light heavy in the first place. I can tell you I am in the best shape, both physically and mentally.
Brad Foster
It was a good and entertaining fight where I don’t think I was at my best last time, so I’ve got to settle the score and put it right. Everyone has an opinion and some people say he won, some say I won and some say it was a draw. I am confident of settling it now and I just need to punch him more times than he punches me! I had three 12 rounds fights in a short space of time so I was probably a bit burnt out, so I rested over Christmas and let a few injuries heal. It has to be different this time. The ITV exposure will be massive for both of us and I cannot wait to get in there.
Lucien Reid
Without exposure you don’t get to a certain level and every boxer needs it. ITV will hit the general public and not just the boxing fans so I am looking forward to it and seeing the numbers as well. Don’t get me wrong, I could get hit with a jab and think I’ve lost the round. I’m just like that but I do believe I won last time by at least one round and I have not heard one person say that Brad won or it was a draw. I am going to make it right on Saturday and I have to for my boxing life and my son.



SATURDAY: Lucien Reid-Brad Foster Super Bantamweight Rematch Kicks off Wilder-Fury 2 Fight Day LIVE on ESPN+

(Feb. 20, 2020) — Hours before the most anticipated rematch in years — Deontay Wilder versus Tyson Fury — Lucien Reid and Brad Foster will settle a score of their own. Foster will defend his Commonwealth and British super bantamweight titles in a 12-round rematch Saturday from London’s York Hall on a card promoted by Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions.

Foster and Reid fought last September, with Foster retaining his titles via majority draw in a pitched battle that saw both men cut. In the co-feature, 19-year-old bantamweight sensation Dennis “The Menace” McCann (5-0, 4 KOs) will face Pablo Narvaez in a six-rounder.

Foster-Reid II will headline a scheduled six-fight card beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. PT live on ESPN+.

Foster (11-0-2, 4 KOs) won the British super bantamweight title with a points verdict over Josh Wale in March 2019, then added the Commonwealth belt to his collection two months later with a 12th-round TKO over Ashley Lane. Reid (8-0-2, 4 KOs) appeared to have done enough to defeat Foster last September, but after 12 rounds, two of the judges scored it even. The London native hopes to gain revenge in one of the new year’s most anticipated all-British tilts.

In other action on ESPN+:

In a 10-round eliminator for the British super middleweight title, Kody Davies (10-0, 3 KOs) will face the hard-hitting Umar Sadiq (9-1, 6 KOs), winner of three straight by knockout.
Former UK amateur standout Henry Turner (1-0, 0 KOs) will take the next step in a four-round super lightweight test against durable Welshman Rhys Saunders (3-22-1, 1 KO).
Willy “Braveheart” Hutchinson (10-0,7 KOs) will fight an opponent to be named in an eight-round light heavyweight bout.

Lightweight prospect Sam Noakes (2-0, 2 KOs), a promising 22-year-old puncher, will fight Des Newton (8-14, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.
For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 7.6 million subscribers in less than two years, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com. It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ ­— all for just $12.99/month.




DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT’S BROADWAY BOXING DEBUTS IN MIAMI, FL, ON THURSDAY, MARCH 12 LIVE ON UFC FIGHT PASS

New York, NY (February 20, 2020) DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing series, celebrating its 17th year, will debut in Miami, FL, from The Warehouse at Magic City Innovation District on Thursday, March 12. The 114th edition of Broadway Boxing will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, beginning at 8:30pm ET/5:30pm PT.

Presented in association with Global Legion FC, tickets, priced at $250, $100 and $50, may be purchased online through Eventbrite. The Warehouse at Magic City Innovation District is located at 6301 Northeast 4th Avenue in Miami, FL. Doors on the night of the event will open at 6:00 p.m. ET, with the first bell at 7:00 p.m. ET.

“I’m thrilled to bring Broadway Boxing to the fantastic fight town of Miami, Florida, and look forward to working with Kosmas Livanos, of Global Legion FC, on this tremendous night of action,” said 2020 Hall-of-Fame Inductee Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The stacked card will be headlined by Ghanaian lightweight contender Emmanuel Tagoe, live on UFC FIGHT PASS.”

Fighting out of the talent-laden region of Accra, Ghana, world-ranked lightweight Emmanuel “The Gameboy” Tagoe (31-1, 15 KOs) will seek to keep his remarkable winning streak intact, facing Rey “The Technician” Perez (24-11, 8 KOs), of North Hollywood, CA, by way of Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines, in a 10-round clash. Tagoe’s only defeat came in his 2004 pro debut.

Ranked #2 by the WBO, #6 by the IBF, and #10 by the WBC, Tagoe will be fighting in the United States for the first time in seven years. Most recently, the heavy-handed Ghanaian knocked out Ishmael Aryeetey in the sixth round, on July 20, 2019, in Accra. He also holds victories against former world champions Moses Paulus and Mzonke Fana.

“Tagoe is on the verge of a world title shot, but first must get past an experienced veteran in the Filipino Perez, in what promises to be a thrilling main event,” said DiBella.

The 30-year-old Perez hits the ring following a hard-fought decision loss to undefeated contender George Kambosos on January 19, 2019, in Las Vegas. Perez has been tested against solid opposition throughout his 11-year career, facing Jessie Magdaleno, Lamont Roach, Chris Avalos and Oscar Duarte. Prior to the loss against Kambosos, Perez stopped Christian Gonzalez in the seventh round on October 18, 2018, in Los Angeles, CA.

“Undefeated Miami fan favorite Harold Calderon competes in the co-feature, highlighting a stacked undercard,” continued DiBella. “Former world champion Kali Reis is in a fantastic matchup against former world title challenger Alma Ibarra, and several rising prospects see action, including Colombian Olympian light heavyweight Juan Carlos Carrillo, Puerto Rican welterweight Jose Roman, heavy-hitting Greek middleweight Andreas Katzourakis and undefeated female super welterweight Logan Holler.”

Popular Miami welterweight contender Harold Calderon (22-0, 15 KOs) takes on Gustavo “El Perrito” Vittori (26-6-1, 12 KOs), of Concordia, Entre Rios, Argentina. A native of Honduras, the hard-hitting southpaw Calderon, known in South Florida for his devastating knockouts, blasted his way through 2019 with four stoppages, the last coming on December 13, in the second round against Krisztian Santa in Miramar, FL.

In an outstanding women’s bout, former world champion Kali “KO Mequinonoag” Reis (16-7-1, 5 KOs), of Providence, RI, faces off against former world title challenger Alma Ibarra (7-1, 4 KOs), of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, in an eight-round welterweight bout. Since challenging undisputed champion Cecilia Braekhus in May of 2018, Reis has won three consecutive fights, including a six-round decision on August 29, 2019, against Patricia Juarez. Ibarra is returning to battle following her loss to Raquel Miller in a 10-round world title clash on November 23, 2019, in Quebec City, Canada.

In a scheduled six-round light heavyweight battle of unbeaten prospects, 2016 Colombian Olympian Juan Carlos Carrillo (3-0, 2 KOs) continues his ascent as a professional challenging hard-hitting Demetri Bentley (8-0, 6 KOs), of Atlanta, GA. The 27-year-old Carrillo is staying busy in 2020, last fighting on February 8, scoring a second-round knockout of Ben Williams in Daytona Beach, FL. Also keeping an active schedule, fighting eight times in 2019, the 24-year-old Bentley returns to action after an eight-round unanimous decision versus Ian Darby on September 29, 2019.

Featured on the undercard, 22-year-old top undefeated prospect Andreas Katzourakis (5-0, 4 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA, will compete in a six-round middleweight bout. He returns to battle after a second-round stoppage of fellow prospect Edward Brown on December 13, 2019, in Miramar, FL. The native of Athens, Greece, was a European Middleweight Champion as an amateur.

Undefeated Puerto Rican prospect Jose Roman (10-0, 5 KOs), of Bayamon, P.R., co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Universal Boxing, will see action in a six-round welterweight bout. Fighting in Brooklyn, NY, on October 24, 2019, the 26-year-old Roman knocked out Fabian Lyimo in the fifth-round.

Exciting female junior middleweight prospect Logan Holler (8-0-1, 3 KOs), of Columbia, SC, clashes with Leslie Pope (4-1, 3 KOs), of Kansas City, MO, in a six-round bout. Fighting for the first time in 2020, the former star college athlete Holler has moved her training to South Florida, where she is guided by Javiel Centeno in a camp alongside Tagoe and Kambosos. She is looking to bounce back following the only blemish on her record; a six-round majority draw to Bertha Aracil on February 23, 2019.

Former amateur standout Otar Eranosyan, of Tbilisi, Georgia, will make his professional debut in a six-round lightweight bout. Representing the country of Georgia, the 26-year-old Eranosyan earned a bronze medal at the 2019 European Games in Belarus.

Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.




Heavyweight Jeremiah Milton To Be Lead Sparring Partner For Joe Joyce As He Prepares For DuBois

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 20, 2020) – Heavyweight Jeremiah Milton, who recently signed a managerial agreement with Victory Sports & Entertainment, is now in Las Vegas, Nevada, sparring 2016 Olympic Silver Medalist Joe Joyce (10-0, 9 KOs), as he prepares for his bout with Daniel DuBois (14-0, 13 KOs).

“It feels good sparring someone of such a high caliber like Joe Joyce,” said Milton after training. “I came in second at the Olympic Trials, which gave me a ton of confidence. Now that I’m working with a fighter like Joe Joyce, I am learning a lot, and we are going hard rounds. Not a lot of fighters get this much experience prior to turning pro.”

Milton, a 25-year-old amateur stand-out from Tulsa, Oklahoma, who was a silver medalist at the Olympic Trials and won the Western Qualifiers in 2019, is ready to take his career to the next level.

“I made sacrifices last year, I moved to Oakland to train and get better,” stated Milton. “Now I am training in Las Vegas and I want to be the best I can be. I have to go where there’s world championship level sparring, it doesn’t get better than this. Helping Joe Joyce with his camp is just the start of many great things for me.”

Milton, who is fresh out of the amateurs, is more focused than ever on making a statement as a professional. His manager Mike Leanardì is thrilled with this opportunity.

“Milton has only been boxing for three years, but is able to give Joe Joyce quality work, which speaks to Milton’s attributes,” said Mike Leanardì, CEO of Victory Sports & Entertainment. “Milton is a person with strong character and a lot of integrity as well as talent. Learning from a decorated amateur and rising pro like Joe Joyce will only improve Jeremiah, and his quest to become a world champion.”




Undefeated Featherweight Martino Jules takes on Three-Time Olympian Anvar Yunusov on Saturday, March 14th at The Wind Creek Events Center in Bethlehem, PA

Bethlehem, PA (February 20, 2020)-A terrific main has been signed that will feature undefeated Martino Jules and three-time Olympian Anvar Yunusov in an eight-round bout for the NABA U.S. Featherweight title that will top a big night of action on Saturday, March 14th at The Wind Creek Bethlehem Event Center.

The card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Jules of nearby Allentown, PA has a record of 9-0 with two knockouts and has become a local fan-favorite.

Jules, 22 has wins over undefeated fighters Malik Loften and Felix Sosa, and is coming off a 1st round stoppage over 40-fight veteran, Pablo Capul on February 8th in Allentown, Pa.

Yunusov of Dushanbe, Tajikistan, represented his country in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. Since turning professional, the 33 year-old Yunusov has compiled a record of 8-1 with four knockouts.

Yunusov captures the USBF Silver Junior Lightweight title with an eight-round unanimous decision over Carlos Colon (5-1). Yunusov is coming off his 1st professional blemish, which was a controversial 11-round split decision defeat to undefeated Hector Luis Garcia on July 27th in Garcia’s home of the Dominican Republic.

In six-round bouts:

Another local favorite in Jonathan Rodriguez (8-0, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, Pa takes on an opponent to be named.

Undefeated heavyweight sensation, Sonny Conto (6-0, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Guillermo Del Rio (2-3-1, 2 KOs) of Mexico.

Poindexter Knight Jr. (6-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Terrance Williams (5-4-1, 1 KO) of Harrisburg, Pa in a junior middleweight contest.

James Bernadin (3-0-1, 2 KOs) of Lancaster, Pa, squares off with Osvaldo Morales (4-0, 2 KOs) of Harrisburg, Pa in a battle of undefeated junior lightweights.

Khainell Wheeler (4-0, 4 KOs) of Bethlehem, Pa. fights Vincent Baccus (4-2, 3 KOs) of Okmulgee, OK in a super middleweight affair.

Christian Bermudez (1-0) of Brooklyn fights Nicholas Baez (0-1) of Pearl River, NY in a lightweight contest.

Kashin Hutchinson (7-5, 1 KO) of Reading, Pa. fights Roy McGill (6-4, 3 KOs) of Harrisburg in a welteweight fight.

In four-round fights:

Jahdon Ervin of Pottsville, PA makes his pro debut against Roudley Lolo of Harisburg in a middleweight contest.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $35,$50, $70 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.




DUBOIS AND JOYCE TO BATTLE FOR EUROPEAN TITLE

THE ALREADY HUGE heavyweight showdown between Daniel Dubois and Joe Joyce at the o2 Arena on April 11 – live on BT Sport Box Office – has just got bigger with news that the vacant European title will also be on the line.
 
Joyce was originally mandated to fight Marco Huck for the coveted belt in January before the Berlin man succumbed to injury. The pair were set to fight following the vacating of the belt by Agit Kabayel.
 
The EBU have now determined that Dubois and Joyce, the two rising stars of the world heavyweight division, will fight for the European honour.
 
The big collision at the o2 now has the European, WBC Silver and WBO International, along with the British and Commonwealth titles riding on it.
 
The last British holder of the EBU belt was Tyson Fury, who defeated previous owner Dereck Chisora at the ExCel Arena in November 2014. Henry Akinwande, Lennox Lewis, Derek Williams, Frank Bruno, John L Gardner, Joe Bugner and Henry Cooper are amongst other British fighters to have held the heavyweight belt.
 
Promoter Frank Warren is delighted with the development.
 
“The EBU sanctioning this fight for the vacant title is the cherry on the cake,” said the Hall of Fame man, who is currently in Las Vegas with Tyson Fury.
 
“They have recognised the magnitude of the fight, the fact that it is between two unbeaten fighters who are the best two up and coming heavyweight forces in world boxing.
 
“I am particularly pleased for Joe given that his European shot didn’t happen in January, while for Daniel it nicely continues the ‘every belt’ journey we have set him on.
 
“Daniel vs Joe is a fight that you simply cannot afford to miss.”

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Tickets are now on sale via AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk

Ticket Prices:

£400 Ringside – Hospitality
£300 Floor
£200 Floor
£150 Floor/Tier
£100 Tier
£80 Tier
£55 Upper Tier
£40 Upper Tier




DEONTAY WILDER VS. TYSON FURY II FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (February 19, 2020) – Unbeaten WBC Heavyweight Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and undefeated lineal heavyweight champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury nearly came to blows at a heated final press conference Thursday as they previewed their highly anticipated rematch headlining a historic mega PPV event this Saturday, February 22 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Wilder and Fury exchanged words and shoves on stage, just two days before they reignite their rivalry in the ring for the most eagerly awaited heavyweight showdown in decades.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased at www.mgmgrand.com or www.axs.com. The event is promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions, Top Rank and Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions. A Premier Boxing Champions presentation.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday from the MGM Grand Garden Arena:

DEONTAY WILDER

“I truly realized my power during my current knockout streak. I looked at my record and realized I was running through guys and knocking them out. You don’t just go in and knock a human out based on will, you really have to have the power to do so, and through that I realized I had something different. I am just applying my service to my greatness and I am going to use my power up until I can’t use it anymore.”

“My power is God-given; I don’t have to do anything at all. I don’t have to lift weights or do a special type of cardio; it’s born with me. It’s an amazing feeling to have it and to be in this position, out of all the things I could be doing, God placed me in this position. As fighters, we are free in this sport, we say as we please with less consequences, so when I use my platform, I use it well. If people see what I do in my occupation and see that I bring the greatness out of myself, then that will translate to people that look up to me.”

“Anything is possible in the ring, but it comes down to if he can back up his words. That is where your preparation for the fight comes out. One thing for sure, though, I am a great fighter on my back foot. That’s when I’m able to really time you and set you up, and have you run into my own traps. He has a lot of things going on in his camp so that tells you how nervous he is.”

“I don’t believe anything Fury says. I think he is just trying to butter me up and use a lot of mind games. He did that in the first fight to try and steal rounds, so we were lucky that we had experienced judges that weren’t influenced by that. I am not concerned with what I says, I am more focused on what he does. I am a man of action.”

“I am planning for everything, but I think when coming forward doesn’t work for him, he will resort to what he knows. He may try to come forward at first, but once he feels my power, that will stop quickly.”

“Round 12 has been in his mind since day one, that’s why he ran away from the rematch. In the back of Fury’s mind, he will think about how I gave him a concussion and how he had no idea how he even got on the ground. So, I do believe that round is in his head, and if he says otherwise, he is lying.”

“I deserve to be here because of the talent I have and what I am able to do. I have been knocking guys out for 12 years, so this is nothing new to me. I mean what I say, and I say what I mean, and I am exactly where I am supposed to be.”

“You can see that we’re both emotionally invested in this. We both want to give you all the best of us. Come Saturday night, we’re going to release all of our energy in the ring and it’s going to stay there.

“This is the moment I’ve been waiting for, and I’m sure he’s been waiting as well. There are so many odds looking in and helping to put the heavyweight division on notice. This division has had tremendous action these last few years. Our first fight was amazing, and this is going to be an even more intense.”

TYSON FURY

“Wanting to go head to head with him is a bold move, but we fight fire with fire. When I went at him in the first fight, though, he could not contain me. If I start doing that in round one, then he will be gassed by round five and hanging on for dear life, if he even gets that far.”

“The 12th round of our first fight was a good round, and credit to Wilder, he got me with two of the best punches I have ever seen thrown in a 12 round heavyweight fight. As we have seen, that has become very famous, the ole’ knockdown of the Gypsy King was very active online and all over the world. But the thing Wilder must be thinking is, I hit that guy with my hardest punch in round 12, and he got up. What do I have to do to keep him down?”

“The biggest puncher who ever lived should have to problem opening my cut up. He could not keep me down in the 12th round, so now I want to see if he is able to get up off the floor. I don’t think he has the guts to get up.”

“I gave Wilder the biggest payday of his life and brought him to the biggest stage. Deontay owes me everything, I brought him to this level, and this is his second fight at the top.”

“He’s going to try to and the right hand. If I’m stupid enough to get hit with it, I deserve to lose. I hit the floor last time, but I showed that I’m truly a fighting man. If he can’t finish me, I’m going to eat him up.

“Kenny Bayless is a top referee; he has refereed me before and he did a good job. I have no objections with the referees and judges, whoever they are they are, they will do a good job.”

“It’s been no secret that I’m looking for a knockout. That’s why I hired Sugarhill and went back to Kronk. He gets you to sit down on that big right hand, and that’s the game plan.”

“What I did last time clearly was not good enough, and what better club to go to than Kronk? I know they can bring out of me exactly what I need for this fight.”

JAY DEAS, Wilder’s Co-Trainer

“We don’t worry about weight. We don’t even use the scale at the gym. As long as he’s training hard and eating well, which he always is, the weight just is what it is. He’s a freak of nature, so we’re not worried about what the other guy brings as far as his weight. Deontay has always been the lighter guy. It’s normal for us. It’s usually advantageous for us.”

“Sugar is a great trainer, so we are ready for the best Tyson Fury. When Deontay wins this fight, he will get the credit for beating Tyson at his absolute best. I don’t want any talk about anything else. I want both guys at their best, and I think that’s what we’ve got.”

“Its fight week, this is what is supposed to happen. This is what happens when you have the two best heavyweights in the world, both undefeated and highly motivated. I wouldn’t expect anything less than this type of energy.

SUGARHILL STEWARD, Fury’s Trainer

“Tyson Fury is a very tall heavyweight, so we believe that he can carry more weight, along with his power. He’s a big, strong heavyweight and extra weight won’t hurt him. He still moves around just like a super middleweight. Plus, he still has the ring IQ to set things up. We’re just adding some punching power to his arsenal.”

“I am excited watching the fighter’s reactions today. Up until now it has been quiet and subtle. Today you saw the mood swings, and all the hard work the fighters have put into their training camps. Emotions are going up, and emotions are going down, but this is what big-time boxing is. Both of these fighters have a chip on their shoulder and are expressing themselves as they should.”

“I feel as if I have done everything he asked for. He wanted to be better technically, more aggressive, and be a big dominant heavyweight.”

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ABOUT DEONTAY WILDER VS. TYSON FURY II
Wilder vs. Fury II will see the highly anticipated rematch between unbeaten WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and undefeated lineal champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury as they headline a historic, mega PPV event Saturday, February 22 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The Wilder vs. Fury II PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin squaring off against former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington for a 12-round IBF Heavyweight Title eliminator in the co-main event. WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete, a.k.a. “The Mexican Iron Man” will defend his title against Filipino contender Jeo Santisima in the PPV featured bout. Plus, in the PPV opener, super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will face 2016 Australian Olympian Daniel Lewis in a 10-round battle of unbeatens.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.toprank.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.foxdeportes.com and www.espn.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @trboxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @ESPN, @ESPNRingside, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/trboxing,www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes andwww.facebook.com/espn.




UNDEFEATED SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT KEITH HUNTER TRAINING CAMP NOTES AHEAD OF SHOBOX MAIN EVENT

LAS VEGAS – February 19, 2020 – Undefeated super lightweight sensation and Las Vegas native, Keith “The Bounty” Hunter (11-0, 7 KOs), talks about training camp in advance of his upcoming showdown against fellow undefeated prospect Malik Hawkins (18-0, 11KOs) in the main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, February 28 live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT) from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.

In the co-main event, 2016 Olympian and undefeated super lightweight prospect Richardson Hitchins (10-0, 5 KOs) takes on Rhode Island’s Nick DeLomba (16-2, 5KOs) in a 10-round bout and once-beaten Las Vegas native Kevin Newman II (11-1-1, 6 KOs) faces Albania’s Genc Pllana (7-1-1, 4 KOs) in a 10-round super middleweight matchup that opens the telecast.

Tickets for the Mayweather Promotions’ Sin City Showdown start at $25 and can be purchased at: https://mayweatherpromotions.com/events/.

Hunter, 27, returns to Sam’s Town Live after an impressive 2019, in which he won a decisive 10-round unanimous decision against Cameron Krael and scored an upset victory over former amateur standout Sanjarbek Rakhmanov. He comes from a family of fighters, he’s the younger brother of heavyweight contender Michael Hunter and his father was a well-respected boxer who sparred with Mike Tyson. Hunter has spent the entirety of his training camp at Prince Ranch Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, where he trains alongside undefeated welterweight Blair Cobbs.

Here is what Hunter had to say about his recent training camp and upcoming battle with Hawkins:

On his opponent…

“This is my time to shine. Hawkins is a good fighter, he is talented, but he stands in my way. I am not just fighting for myself, but for my family. If you look at my record, I’ve fought some very tough guys.  I know I’m battle ready to take my career to the next level. Hawkins is going down. I am going to make people respect the Hunter name once again

“I have nothing bad to say about Malik Hawkins. He is a hard-working fighter. I just feel that I am better. This is my time, and no one can take this opportunity away from me.  The problem for Hawkins is, I have trained harder than ever to get the win. I am more focused than ever.”

On training camp…

“I wanted this camp to be very specific. I get good sparring at Bones Adams’ gym and a lot of top pros have come through there like Shakur Stevenson, Manny Pacquiao, and many others. I have watched how they trained, and I have used that same work ethic and principles for this camp with the supervision of my coaches.”

On his status as a contender…

“I’m now ranked 13 by the WBA, which makes me a contender. I must get past Hawkins, so believe me when I tell you I’m going to leave everything in the ring.  I’m looking at this fight like it’s a world title. Losing is not an option.”

On making his SHOWTIME debut…

“I am excited to headline on ShoBox: The New Generation. It’s a platform that launches fighters’ careers, and SHOWTIME has a fantastic and professional production crew. One goal from the beginning was to showcase my talent on a big stage like this, now I’m here.  This is a very big opportunity for me, I’m not going to let it slip away.”

Hunter is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing, advised by former two-time heavyweight world champion Hasim Rahman promoted by Greg Cohen, Founder and CEO of Greg Cohen Promotions.

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For more information: visit www.sho.com/sportswww.mayweatherpromotions.com/events, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, and on Instagram @mayweatherpromotions, @showtimeboxing, #SinCityShowdown and #ShoBox, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.Facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions, or www.bit.ly/sincityshowdown.




Atlantic City Favorites Anthony “Juice” Young Plus DeCarlo Perez as well as undefeated Thomas Velasquez added to Huge Fight card on Saturday, March 7th at Ballys Atlantic City Hotel and Casino

Atlantic City, NJ (February 19, 2020)– Some more local flavor has been added to an already terrific night of boxing that will take place on Saturday, March 7th at
Ballys Atlantic City Hotel and Casino.

Atlantic City natives in welterweight contender, Anthony “Juice” Young plus super middleweight DeCarlo Perez pas well as undefeated super featherweight Thomas Velasquez will be added to an impressive lineup that will be headlined by a eight-round South Jersey Super Middleweight Showdown between Derrick Webster and Gabriel Pham.

Young has a record of 21-2 with eight knockouts. The 32 year-old Young is a nine-year professional who has wins over Jose Javier Calderon (4-1) and his last bout when he burst into contendership when he stopped former junior middleweight world champion Sadam Ali (27-2) in three rounds on May 4th in Las Vegas.

Young will be making his 13th appearance in Atlantic City.

Perez has a record of 17-6-1 with five knockouts, will be competing in a six-round super middleweight bout. The 28 year-old Perez is a 10 year-professional who has wins over Shamone Alvarez (21-5), Dante Moore (8-0-2), Jamar Freeman (9-1-2), Marcus Willis (13-3-2), Tyrone Bruns (22-2-1), Jesse Nicklow (24-5-3), Juan Ubaldo Cabbrera (23-0), Lanell Bellows (16-1-1),. In his last bout, Perez won an eight-round unanimous decision over cross-town rival Antowyan Aikens on September 8, 2018 in Atlantic City.

Perez will making his 10th hometown start.

Velasquez of Philadelphia has a record of 9-0-1 with five knockouts. The 24 year-old Velasquez is a five year professional, has Grashino Yancy (1-0). In his last bout, Velasquez battled to a draw with Tyrome Jones on September 19, 2017 in Bethlehem, Pa.

Opponents for Young, Perez and Velasquez will be announced shortly

Besides those four aforementioned bouts, Isiah Seldon (13-3-1, 4 KOs) of Atlantic City fights Darryl Bunting (4-6-2, 2 KOs) of Asbury Park, NJ in a six-round super middleweight fight.

Jeremy Cuevas (12-1, 9 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in an lightweight bout.

Christian Tapia (10-0, 9 KOs) of Coamo, Puerto Rico fights Carlos Colon (5-2, 2 KOs) of Hatillo, Puerto Rico in a super featherweight contest.

Jan Carlos Rivera (4-0, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a super lightweight contest.

In four-round bouts:

Benny Sinakin (5-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Francisco Neto (1-8, 1KO) of Woburn, Mass. in a light heavyweight contest.

Jeff Lentz (5-1, 1 KO) of Lanoka Harbor, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a middleweight fight.

Tickets are on sale now for $100 for VIP, $65 for Ringside and $50 for VIP and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com and at The Caesars Box Office.




TWO UNDEFEATED LONG ISLANDER’S ADDED TO FEBURARY 28, SELDIN-MARTINEZ, TAKAM-MALDONADO, “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” UNDERCARD

New York, February 19 2020

The much anticipated “Rockin’ Fights” 38 double main event of hometown hero, CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN (Shirley, Long Island 24-1 20KO’s) defending his NABA title against Colombian slugger, HUMBERTO MARTINEZ (33-9-2 25KO’S) as well as top, world rated heavyweight, CARLOS TAKAM (Henderson, Nevada 37-5-1 28KO’s) against heavy-handed combatant FABIO MALDONADO (Sao Paulo, Brazil 26-3 25KO’s), has created a buzz in the boxing world.

On the undercard, adding to the excitement, Star Boxing is pleased to announce that undefeated Long Island talents, Haitian born, WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT (Huntington, Long Island, 10-0 4KO’s) and ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (Bellport, Long Island 5-0 1KO) will be featured on the undercard.

Toussaint is set to face the tough, JERMAINE “REAL STEEL” CORLEY in a scheduled 6-round super welterweight bout. Toussaint stands at 6’0″, and has recently found dynamite in his hands, winning four of his last five bouts by knockout. Toussaint is returning from a hand injury that has kept him out since June of 2019 and looks to pick up where he left off. Corley (Mt. Vernon, NY 3-8 1KO) has earned the respect of many based on his no-nonsense, brawler style. In eleven professional fights, Corley has fought nine undefeated fighters, Toussaint making ten, and has an overall opponent record of 54-5-1.

Toussaint is prepared to go to work on February 28, “I’m very happy to be getting back in the ring in front of my fans at The Paramount. I plan on putting on a great fight and look forward to having a very busy and productive, 2020.”

Undefeated Bellport product, and 2013 NY Golden Gloves champion, ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (5-0 1KO) has quickly made a name for himself at The Paramount. Following the best win of his career over then undefeated DASHAUN JOHNS (2-0) at “Rockin’ Fights” 37 in November, Vargas looks to continue his rise, when he takes on Puerto Rican veteran ANTONIO SANCHEZ (Toa Alta, Puerto Rico 6-8-3 3KO’s). Sanchez has become a pseudo gate keeper of the welterweight division has made a name for himself in tough fights with high level prospects in both the United States and Puerto Rico.

Vargas is ready to put on a show in front of his rowdy hometown fans, “I’m excited to return to the Paramount to fight in front of all of my people again. My opponent has a lot of experience but I’m working hard, staying focused and looking forward to getting another win.”

Both Toussaint and Vargas look to continue their dominance at The Paramount come February 28th, adding to an already stellar card featuring Cletus Seldin and Carlos Takam. Rockin’ Fights 38 is anticipating a sell-out, so be sure to get your tickets now, before it’s too late!




FRANK WARREN BOXERS ARE WINNERS IN NEW BT SPORT/ITV PARTNERSHIP

FRANK WARREN and Queensberry Promotions talent stacked stable will get terrestrial TV exposure following BT Sport’s innovative link up with ITV.

Fight content will be shared between the broadcast giants, giving Warren promoted boxers unrivalled coverage in Britain thanks to the ground-breaking initiative.

Hall of Fame promoter Warren said: “This is fantastic news for boxing, our boxers and even better for fans who now have another outlet to watch our exciting boxers.

“BT Sport is showing their long-term commitment to the sport and their desire to give boxing an even bigger audience is there for all to see with this new arrangement.”

The BT Sport/ITV partnership begins on Saturday (February 22nd) with simultaneous live coverage from York Hall, Bethnal Green of the grudge rematch between British and Commonwealth Super-Bantamweight champion Brad Foster (11-0-2) and Lucien Reid (8-0-2).

When they fought each other last September, their fight ended in a controversial draw.

ITV1 coverage commences at 10.15pm on Saturday. Besides the much-anticipated double title clash between Foster and Reid, unbeaten prospects Dennis McCann (5-0) and Willy Hutchinson (10-0) are featured in live televised action.

Kent Super-Bantamweight McCann, 19, has been compared with all-time great Naseem Hamed and Super-Middleweight Hutchinson was Scotland’s first ever World amateur champion.

Warren added: “What a night Saturday promises to be starting with high class action at York Hall where we have delivered the rematch fans demanded between Brad and Lucien.

“The bill is filled with young prospects and young Dennis and Willy will benefit even more from joint BT Sport and ITV1 exposure. This is brilliant for our boxers.

“Once the show finishes at York Hall it gets even bigger on BT Sport Box Office with live coverage of Tyson Fury’s rematch against Deontay Wilder – the biggest fight in the world this year.

“This unique broadcasting partnership will continue and that brings bigger exposure for our boxers who can become household names.”

Lichfield’s Foster had a stunning 2019 – taking the British title from Josh Wale before adding the Commonwealth crown when he stopped Ashley Lane in the 12th round.

His draw against Reid followed, but with added exposure he is determined to show Londoner Reid and TV viewers who is the boss this weekend.

Foster, 22, said: “It is wicked being on BT Sport and ITV1. I was buzzing as soon as I was called with the news about extra television coverage.

“I am pressing to get in the world title picture and with even more people watching at home it can only benefit all the boxers.

“It is going to be great fight and now everyone can watch Lucien and myself give fans a night to remember. It’s massive.

“Lucien and myself have both been in there with each other and that makes the fight even more tasty.”

Many ringsiders believed Reid deserved to win their first meeting and although one judge sided with him, the remaining two scored it level which meant the majority draw.

“It’s amazing news,” said Reid who was a decorated amateur.

“All the sports fans have BT Sport, but ITV can take it to another level by hitting the general public who might not watch boxing regularly.

“This arrangement means it is an even bigger audience that will watch me showcase my skills against Brad.

“There is rivalry from the first meeting, we’re both good and people will see two Super-Bantamweights flying at each other. There will be speed, skill and it’s a great fight.

BT Sport’s live broadcast from York Hall starts at 8pm. Among the action included on Fight Night Live is the British Super-Middleweight title eliminator between Kody Davies (10-0) and Umar Sadiq (9-1).

Also on the bill is Alex Bishop (3-0), Ryan Garner (8-0), Eithan James (2-0), Louie Lynn (5-0), Sam Noakes (2-0) and Henry Turner (1-0) take the next step towards early title contention, while 2016 Olympian Muhammad Ali, makes his professional debut at featherweight.




UFC® RETURN TO LINCOLN, NEBRASKA HEADLINED BY TOP LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDERS (#3) ANTHONY SMITH AND (#9) GLOVER TEIXEIRA

LAS VEGAS – UFC® returns to Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Neb. for the second time in two years with an exciting main event guaranteed to deliver action, as No. 3 ranked light heavyweight contender Anthony Smith looks to defend his home state territory against No. 9 Glover Teixeira.Also on the card, No. 10 ranked strawweight Cynthia Calvillo aims to make a statement when she moves up in weight to take on No. 12 ranked flyweight Antonina Shevchenko.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: SMITH vs. TEIXEIRA will stream live from Pinnacle Bank Arena with all fights carried exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish. The main card begins at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, April 25, with the prelims kicking off at 5 p.m. ET.  Doors open at 4 p.m. ET.

Competing in his home state for the first time under the UFC banner, Smith (32-14, fighting out of Omaha, Neb.) looks to get back into the title conversation with another highlight-reel victory. After joining the light heavyweight division in 2018, Smith quickly established himself as a top contender with impressive first-round knockouts over former champions Rashad Evans and Mauricio Rua. He now looks to put on a show for his fans by taking out his third former-title challenger in a row.

A perennial top contender since joining the UFC in 2012, Teixeira (30-7, fighting out of Danbury, Conn.) aims to spoil the homecoming of Smith and notch his fourth win in a row. Tied with champion Jon Jones for the most stoppages in light heavyweight division history, Teixeira has scored emphatic finishes over Rashad Evans, Ovince Saint Preux and Ion Cutelaba. He now plans on breaking back into the top 5 with a record-setting performance.

The older sister of women’s flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko, Shevchenko (8-1, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan) looks to keep building her own legacy in the UFC. A former K-1 and Muay Thai world champion, Shevchenko holds wins over Ji Yeon Kim and Lucie Pudilova. She now intends to build the first win streak of her UFC career with another bonus-earning performance.

A top contender in the strawweight division, Calvillo (8-1-1, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) moves up in weight for the first time in her UFC career in order to compete at her full potential. A dangerous submission specialist, she has locked in finishes against Amanda Cooper, Pearl Gonzalez and Poliana Botelho. Calvillo now aims to make a statement by being the first person to stop Shevchenko.

Announced bouts on the card include:

  • Light heavyweight finishers battle as Ovince Saint Preux (24-13, fighting out of Knoxville, Tenn.) attempts to hand Shamil Gamzatov (14-0, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) his first loss
  • Evan Dunham (18-7-1, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) returns to the Octagon against Michael Johnson (20-15, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla.) in a clash of lightweight veterans
  • Brazilian women’s strawweight prospects meet as grappling ace Mackenzie Dern (7-1, fighting out of Long Beach, Calif.) hunts for another submission against Ariane Carnelossi (12-2, fighting out of Presidente Prudente, Sao Paulo, Brazil)
  • Anthony Rocco Martin (17-5, fighting out of St. Cloud, Minn.) and David Zawada (17-5, fighting out of Düsseldorf, Germany) look to make a statement to the rest of the welterweight division
  • Middleweights Andrew Sanchez (12-5, fighting out of Montreal, Quebec, Canada) and Zak Cummings (23-7, fighting out of Kansas City, Mo.) compete to climb back into the win column
  • Rising lightweight talents meet as Roosevelt Roberts (9-1, fighting out of San Bernardino, Calif.) takes on Matt Frevola (8-1-1, fighting out of Long Island, NY)
  • Alexander Romanov (11-0, fighting out of Gagauzia, Moldova) intends to make a statement when he makes his UFC debut against Raphael Pessoa (10-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
  • Lightweights Christos Giagos (17-8, fighting out of Hawthorne, Calif.) and Alan Patrick (15-2, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) look to bounce back into the win column

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

Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: SMITH vs. TEIXEIRA go on sale Friday, February 21 at 10 a.m. CT. Tickets are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, February 19 at 10 a.m. CT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, February 20 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

To sign up for ESPN+, go to www.ESPNplus.com/UFC.

###

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 300 million fans and 75 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 65 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ grew quickly to 3.5 million subscribers in 18 months, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com.  It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ ­— all for just $12.99/month.

About ESPN

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




ESPN+ Releases Premiere Episode of The 3 Knockdown Rule

Hope you are doing well. I wanted to reach out and let you know that ESPN+, the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service, today released the premiere episode of its new boxing series – “The 3 Knockdown Rule.”

The 3 Knockdown Rule is hosted by television personality and boxing aficionado Mario Lopez and ESPN boxing writer Steve Kim as they have brought their popular podcast to the screen, exclusively on ESPN+. This show will analyze and deliberate the biggest bouts of the year, with thoughtful insights, healthy debate and special guests from around the world of boxing.  

The premiere episode previews this Saturday’s highly anticipated rematch between undefeated lineal heavyweight champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury and unbeaten heavyweight champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder. This episode also includes a special guest appearance by legendary trainer, and good friend, Joe Goossen as he breaks down each fighter’s keys to success.

Goossen explains what he thinks Fury’s points of emphasis should be for this fight:

“I think Fury did a great defensive job in the last fight but in the pro boxing game it’s aggressiveness that wins the day. So if you are going to be defensive when you make a guy miss you have to make him pay for it and Fury has to do that in this next fight.”

Goossen also gives his thoughts on why Fury changed his trainer for this fight:

“I think he probably went back and looked at the tape of the last fight and said look I need something new and I need somebody that really knows this game and what I am going to be expected to do in this next fight and what I need to do. I think this move is going to pay off or him.”

I have included the press release below, but if you are interested, I would be happy to also share preview videos for future episodes, and I can offer an opportunity for you to speak VP and Executive Producer, Original Content, ESPN+, Brian Lockhart about the series.

Please let me know if this is of interest and I look forward to your feedback. Thanks!

Best,
Matt

February 19, 2020

Streaming Now on ESPN+: The 3 Knockdown Rule,

Premiere Episode Previews Fury vs. Wilder II

  • Mario Lopez and Steve Kim bring their popular podcast to the screen, exclusively on ESPN+
  • Series will deliberate the biggest boxing matches throughout the year
  • First episode previews Fury vs. Wilder II on Saturday, Feb. 22
  • Subscribe on the ESPN App, ESPN.com and connected TV devices
A close up of a mans face

Description automatically generated

The premiere episode of The 3 Knockdown Rule, hosted by television personality and boxing aficionado Mario Lopez and ESPN boxing writer Steve Kim, previews this Saturday’s highly anticipated rematch between undefeated lineal heavyweight champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury and unbeaten heavyweight champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” WilderThe 3 Knockdown Rule streams exclusively on ESPN+, the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service.

Taking their popular boxing podcast of the same title to the screen, Lopez and Kim discuss and debate their expectations and insights into what promises to be the championship fight of the year. The two also jump into the ring with legendary trainer and good friend Joe Goossen to break down each fighter’s keys to success. Future episodes of The 3 Knockdown Rule on ESPN+ will also feature Lopez and Kim analyzing and deliberating the biggest bouts of the year, with thoughtful insights, healthy debate and special guests from around the world of boxing.

Preview video: https://vimeo.com/391612755 / Password: tkr

PLEASE NOTE: Preview video is for MEDIA VIEWING ONLY, not for posting.

Fury vs. Wilder II will be available as part of a joint presentation by ESPN+ PPV and FOX Sports PPV live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Saturday, Feb. 22. Their first fight in December 2018 saw Wilder retain his title via split draw after Fury rose from a 12th-round knockdown to finish the fight. 

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the leading direct-to-consumer sports streaming service from Disney’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown quickly to 7.6 million subscribers in less than two years, offering fans thousands of live events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, as well as premium editorial content. 

Programming on ESPN+ includes exclusive UFC and Top Rank boxing events, thousands of college sports events (including football and basketball) from more than a dozen sports at 20 conferences, hundreds of MLB and NHL games, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, Bundesliga – beginning in 2020, EFL Championship and Carabao Cup, Eredivisie), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, exclusive ESPN+ Original series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films.

Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) through the ESPN App, (on mobile and connected devices), ESPN.com or ESPNplus.com.  It is also available as part of a bundle offer that gives subscribers access to Disney+, Hulu (ad-supported), and ESPN+ ­— all for just $12.99/month.




PARKER TELLS WILDER AND FURY: FIGHT AJ NEXT

Joseph Parker has told Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury to fight Anthony Joshua next and crown an undisputed World Heavyweight champion, as Parker himself prepares to return to action against Shawndell Winters at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas on Saturday February 29, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW STARTING AT $25 VIA SEATGEEK

Parker (26-2 20 KOs) is back on the World title trail after having to pull out of a proposed clash with Derek Chisora in London in October after sustaining an illness through a spider bite.

The former WBO champion is finishing his preparation for his return to action against Winters (13-2 12 KOs) in Las Vegas this week before heading to Texas, and on Saturday night the Kiwi fan-favorite will take his seat in Sin City as Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury rematch for Wilder’s WBC title.

Parker has grown close to Fury having bonded with the former champion when he defended his old belt against his cousin Hughie in Manchester in September, and while he’s backing ‘The Gypsy King’ to beat Wilder on Saturday night, his message to both men is simple: face unified champion Anthony Joshua next, providing the British IBF, WBO and WBA champion comes through his next fight unscathed.

“I want to see the winner challenge Joshua,” said Parker. “The reason I say that is because we’ve been talking about the undisputed champion for a long time. It’s important to give the fans what they want to see, who the best is in the division at this time.

“I have to side with Fury on Saturday. I like his boxing ability and what he can do in the ring as a big man, moving, jabbing, combinations. I just hope it’s a great fight again.

“It’s whoever executes the plan. They’ve both had time to look at the tape of the first fight and study each other and their own movements, so it’s who executes their plan first, or better.

“Both of these guys talk a lot of crap, but they are very entertaining. If I tried to talk like that it wouldn’t work, not even close, so I’ll just stick to what I know!

“The first fight was so exciting and controversial, I think. A lot of people thought Fury won the fight on points, other people thought because of the knockdowns Wilder won, so the rematch is going to be very interesting.”

Parker’s clash with Winters is part of a stellar night of action in Frisco topped by the Welterweight clash between Mikey Garcia (39-1 30 KOs) and Jessie Vargas (29-2-2 11 KOs) with the WBC Diamond strap.

Britain’s longest reigning World champion Kal Yafai (26-015 KOs) puts his WBA World Super-Flyweight title on the line against the former pound-for-pound king and four weight World ruler Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez (48-2 40 KOs) and rising Mexican sensation Julio Cesar Martinez (15-1 12 KOs) makes the first defense of his WBC World Flyweight title against unbeaten European champion Jay Harris (17-0 9 KOs) and Israil Madrimov (4-0 4 KOs) defends his WBA Inter-Continental Junior-Middleweight title in an official eliminator for the #2 position in the WBA against Venezuelan Charlie Navarro (29-9 22 KOs).

Matchroom Boxing USA talents Diego Pacheco (8-0 7 KOs) and Alexis Espino (5-0 4 KOs) get their first taste of action in 2020 and headline star Garcia will showcase two of his Garcia Promotions charges with 20 year old unbeaten Texan Flyweight Jesse Rodriguez (10-0 6 KOs) clashing with Marco Sustaita (12-2-1 10 KOs) over ten rounds and unbeaten Mexican Middleweight Leo Ruiz Acevedo (6-0 4 KOs) taking on Dennis Knifechief (12-11 7 KOs) over six rounds.

ENDS

About The Star in Frisco
The Star is the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and training facility in Frisco, Texas. Developed as a first-of-its-kind partnership between the City of Frisco, Frisco ISD and the Dallas Cowboys, The Star features Ford Center, a 12,000-seat stadium that hosts Frisco ISD football games, other world class sporting events such as top flight boxing matches, concerts and other events; Cowboys Fit, a 60,000 square-foot gym developed in partnership with leading fitness developer, Mark Mastrov; Cowboys Club, a members-only club where the country club meets the NFL; the Omni Frisco Hotel, a 16-floor, 300-room luxury hotel; Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star, a 300,000 square-foot center of excellence for sports medicine; Twelve, a 17-story, luxury residential tower in partnership between Pro Football Hall-of-Fame Quarterback #12 Roger Staubach, and Dallas-based developer and former Dallas Cowboys center, Robert Shaw; Formation, a dynamic coworking experience offering a collaborative work environment of open workspace, dedicated desks and private offices; as well as a variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options throughout The Star District. For more information on The Star, visit www.TheStarInFrisco.com.




HAWAIIAN PROSPECTS DALIS KALEIOPU AND ASA STEVENS SIGN WITH GOLDEN BOY

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 19, 2020): Golden Boy is delighted to announce that it has signed Hawaiian amateur standouts Dalis Kaleiopu and Asa Stevens to promotional agreements. This exciting duo will look to make their professional debut in the near future.

Kaleiopu is a 21-year-old native of Waianae, Hawaii who will compete in the lightweight division. After starting to box at the age of 13, Kaleiopu participated in several amateur tournaments and the Olympic Trials. This young prospect can box and punch, so he’ll look to make waves in the stacked 140-pound division.

“I thank God for allowing me to be in this position and to have Golden Boy promote me,” said Dalis Kaleiopu. “This is a big compliment to my family and team for all the hard work we do together in and outside of the ring. Oscar was a great fighter, and he has developed champions all over the world. So, to be a Hawaiian from a small island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean makes me feel truly blessed to be in your stable amongst your great champions. Mahalo Nui Loa, Mr. De La Hoya and Team Golden Boy.”

Stevens, a 19-year-old prodigy who is also from Waianae, Hawaii, will compete in the bantamweight division. Stevens is a multi-national amateur champion with a smooth, tactical southpaw style. The cousin of UFC fighter Max Halloway, Stevens will look to gain similar popularity in the sport of boxing.

“This is beginning to feel real now,” said Asa Stevens. “The thought of turning pro and becoming a world champion was secondary to becoming an Olympian. But now I understand the amateurs were just a part of my journey and that those dreams are over with. Now, I am ready to turn the page to this new chapter of my life and showcase my talent as a professional. Waianae, Hawaii, we are on the map now. The world is watching, and I won’t let us down!”

“Our stable is getting better and better every single day,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “Dalis Kaleiopu is a huge kid for 135 pounds, so we look forward to seeing him grow in what is a very stacked division for us at Golden Boy. On the other hand, Asa Stevens is a slick, intelligent southpaw who without a doubt will enter the upper echelon of the division in just a few years. With these two new talents, anything is possible. We can even host an event in Hawaii so they can showcase their skills in front of a hometown crowd. Stay tuned.”

About Golden Boy
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy was established in 2002 by Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy is a media and entertainment brand committed to making fighting entertainment more accessible and affordable. The company’s in-house production team develops creative original programming for ESPN, RingTV.com and international channels across the globe. The company holds the exclusive rights to top boxers and has promoted some of the biggest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport. Now, Golden Boy is one of the most successful boxing entertainment companies in the world and shapes the future of boxing for fighters and fans alike through its 2019 partnership with streaming platform, DAZN.




Salita Promotions Signs Undefeated Armenian Featherweight Aram Avagyan to a Promotional Contract

Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions proudly announces the signing of undefeated Armenian featherweight Aram Avagyan to a promotional contract.

Avagyan (9-0-1, 4 KOs) hails from the Armenian capital of Yerevan and currently fights out of Moscow, Russia. The former amateur star started boxing at age 10 and went on to win two bronze medals at the European Championships and participate in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Known as a smart tactician in the ring, 29-year-old Avagyan holds a master’s degree in International Relations from the Armenian State Institute of Physical Culture and Sports at the Russian-Armenian University.

A three-year professional, Avagyan won the WBC International Silver Feather Title with a unanimous decision over proven Mexican veteran Emanuel Lopez in 2018. He made his US debut and successfully defended his title for the second time in Las Vegas last May with a unanimous decision over fellow undefeated prospect Francisco Esparza on the undercard of the Canelo vs. Danny Jacobs fight.

“I have high expectations with Salita Promotions, and I believe that we will soon reach great heights,” said Avagyan. “I am glad that the head of the company is a former professional boxer since he understands very well what to be an athlete. My goal with every fight is to win and move closer to my goal of becoming a world champion. I have chosen this path and I want to fight with anyone in the top 10 and all the champions. I’m always ready anywhere and with anyone!”

Promoter Salita says Avagyan will soon start working with Sugarhill Steward at the Kronk Gym in Detroit to prepare for his upcoming debut under the Salita Promotions banner. That fight will be announced shortly.

“Aram has the resume and skills to be a force in the featherweight division,” said Salita. “His exciting style and desire to face the best will create a lot of exciting fights in the talent-packed division.”

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




Card Shaping up for RDR Promotions card on Saturday, March 7th at The 2300 Arena

Philadelphia, PA (February 19, 2020) – Local attractions will highlight the inaugural RDR Promotions card on Saturday, March 7th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

In the main event, Samuel Teah (16-3-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Dieumerci Nzau (11-11, 8 KOs) of Silver Spring, Maryland in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

In six-round bouts, Brandon Robinson (14-2, 9 KOs) of Upper Darby, PA fights Jose Obando (19-26-2, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico in a super middleweight bout.

Nahir Albright (7-1, 2 KOs) of Sicklerville, NJ will take on Andrew Rodgers (4-8-2, 2 KOs) of Elkhart, Indiana in a junior welterweight affair.

In four-round bouts:

Nafear Charles (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Joseph Santana (0-2) of Providence, RI in a super lightweight contest.

Laquan Evans (3-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles debuting Anthony Young in a bout that will feature debuting Philadelphia based middleweights.

Ryan Umberger (3-0, 3 KOs) of Bensalem, PA boxes Estevan Payan (1-8-1, 1 KO) of Glendale, Arizona in a middleweight fight.

Naheem Parker of Camden, New Jersey will make his pro debut against Anthony Carter (0-1) of Philadelphia in a lightweight bout.

Rashiem Jefferson of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against an opponent to be named.

Victor Medina (1-0, 1 KO) of Hartford, Ct will take on an opponent to be named in a super bantamweight fight.

Tickets are $125 VIP with a drink; $75 Ringside and $55 General Admission and can be purchased at 2300arena.com




SHANE MOSLEY JR. SIGNS CO-PROMOTIONAL AGREEMENT WITH GOLDEN BOY AND TOURNAMENT OF CONTENDERS

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 19, 2020): Middleweight Shane Mosley Jr. (15-3, 9 KOs) has signed a co-promotional agreement with Golden Boy and Tournament of Contenders.

Mosley Jr. is a 29-year-old middleweight standout who made his professional debut in 2014. Son of Hall of Famer Shane Mosley, Sr., the younger Mosley has spent the past few years fighting all over the country. Most recently, he participated in the revived reality show The Contender from MGM Television and Paramount Television, which airs on premium cable network EPIX, and he’s coming off two victories in a row.

“I am thrilled to be joining Golden Boy,” said Shane Mosley Jr. “I feel this was meant to be; I’ve known Oscar, Eric and Robert since I was a kid. It feels like a homecoming. This is an incredible opportunity for me and a big step in the right direction on the road to becoming a world champion. I’m grateful to Golden Boy, The Contender and my management team, Victory Sports, for making this happen.”

“Shane Mosley Jr. is family to us,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “We’ve known him since he was very young. So, I’m delighted to have him join the Golden Boy stable. This is the place where he belongs, and I’m positive that he will flourish in his new home.”

“We’ve had a long relationship with Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy,” said Jeff Wald of the Tournament of Contenders. “So, this is great for Shane Mosley Jr. It’s the result of his hard work, discipline and dedication. It’s easy for people to underestimate Shane Mosley Jr. He doesn’t come from the tough background like most fighters, and his movie star good looks make people think he’s not as tough, but believe me the kid can fight.”

“We are excited to partner with Golden Boy and feel that this is the best place for Shane to take his career to the next level,” said Rick Torres, President of Victory Sports. “Having worked with Oscar, Eric and Robert on a number of events in the past, I know they have what it takes to help us guide Shane to a world championship.”

About Golden Boy
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy was established in 2002 by Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy is a media and entertainment brand committed to making fighting entertainment more accessible and affordable. The company’s in-house production team develops creative original programming for ESPN, RingTV.com and international channels across the globe. The company holds the exclusive rights to top boxers and has promoted some of the biggest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport. Now, Golden Boy is one of the most successful boxing entertainment companies in the world and shapes the future of boxing for fighters and fans alike through its 2019 partnership with streaming platform, DAZN.




SHAKAN PITTERS REVEALS BRUTAL TRAINING REGIME AS A KID THAT WILL TAKE HIM TO BRITISH TITLE GLORY

London, UK (19 February 2020) Undefeated Birmingham light-heavyweight hotshot Shakan Pitters claims the inexhaustible lung power that has taken him to the cusp of a British title can be traced to his primary school years and the eccentricities of his ex-pro father Colin.

On Saturday 28th March, the freakishly tall sharpshooter squares off against fierce domestic rival Craig Richards for the vacant domestic 175lb crown on promoter Mick Hennessy’s big bill at the Coventry Skydome, exclusively live in the UK on free-to-air Channel Five.

‘When I was in Year Four (age nine), a couple of times a week dad would wake up my mum and us kids at 4a.m and demand we go on a five mile run with him,’ revealed Pitters, who at a lofty 6ft 6in is the tallest contender in the division by some distance.

‘I didn’t mind because I was a good runner and just enjoyed doing everything Dad wanted me to do. When we got home, it’d be pull-ups on the door ledge and an ab circuit before going back to bed!

‘From the age of six, Dad had me in the gym, watching him hit the bags and coach the likes of Matt Macklin and Frankie Gavin at the Small Heath gym. As a kid I could hold my own sparring with older, heavier kids but dad never allowed me to box. He was confident I’d make it as a footballer.

‘I was on West Bromwich Albion’s books for about six years as a schoolboy. Those middle of the night jogs made a huge difference on the pitch. I could run non-stop. Coaches would ask: ‘What are they feeding him?’

‘But, unfortunately, I had injuries. The Albion released me so I turned to boxing, aged 22.’

For five seasons, Pitters flitted casually between the Second City and Eastside gyms, engaging in a score of bouts but paying scant regard for such rudiments as roadwork or nutrition. The arrival of his daughter four years ago forced the logistics worker to re-evaluate.

‘Suddenly, at 27, I needed money so started to do it properly,’ disclosed Pitters.

‘Though I never took it seriously as an amateur, I barely lost a handful and always acquitted myself well sparring good pros like Terry Carruthers, Dee Mitchell and Cella Rendo at Eastside. I knew if I kept my discipline, I had the talent and attributes to go far.’

The Brummie boy comes from good breeding. In the early 1990s, his father Colin extended Richie Woodhall, then a 6-0 prospect and a future WBC World Champion; plus quality champions Steve Foster, Neville Brown and Adrian Dodson. Colin’s brother Rob lost just one of his first dozen as a hot light-middle prospect before descending into the role of a journeyman.

‘There was no chance I was going on the road, as my dad and uncle had,’ states Shakan.

‘Dad’s mindset was just to earn money to support the household. He was a smoker but, when he took it seriously, he was very capable.

‘Though he never wanted me to take the boxing up and hasn’t been to many fights, I know he’s proud. He’ll be at my British title challenge.

Since first dipping his toes into the professional pool in March 2017, skyscraper ‘Shak’ has racked up a lucky 13 straight wins, bagging an Ultimate Boxxer crown at London’s O2 Indigo in November 2018 and the English 12st 7lb title following a comprehensive 10 round decision over Scunthorpe’s 16-2 Dec Spelman at the York Hall last September.

Though 10 of his fights have been scheduled for four rounds or less, his raking right hand has registered four brutal stoppages (all inside two rounds) with three victims succumbing to the full 10 count.

‘I don’t have the physique of a strongman but, as a young kid, could always hit those punch machines hard and dad commented on my power on the pads before I’d even had any bouts. In sparring, I’ve hurt heavyweights and cruisers,’ he claims.

‘As a kid, Tommy Hearns was an idol. Like him, I’ve got the range, distance, technique, twist and leverage to generate serious power. I can crack with or without gloves. I’m a chilled guy but I’ve banged a few over on the street…the last one because they spat at my girlfriend.

‘I’ve also got excellent natural stamina, just as I had as a footballer. And my inside game is pretty underrated. My style’s not one dimensional, it’s a bit crazy, very hard to train for. I alternate, depending on what’s in front of me.

‘Against Dec Spelman – a real hard puncher – I showed I can fight on the back foot but I’m equally comfortable going forward. Dad had me going forward and back on the pads and when skipping, at a very young age so it’s natural. Others might think Dad was barmy, but I’ve a lot to thank him for!’

A top quality undercard is headlined with the return of red-hot cruiserweight talent Isaac Chamberlain from Brixton, South London, as he returns to action and back on his pursuit of a world title.

The card also features some great Midlands match ups that includes a fiery Coventry derby between welterweights Jordan Cooke and Michael Green over six-rounds; Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis takes on Walsall’s Shaun Cooper over six rounds at lightweight; Coventry’s River Wilson Bent clashes with Tamworth’s Lee Gunter in a four-round light-middleweight contest; Tamworth welterweight Tom Silcox in a four-round contest; Birmingham super-featherweight Lewis Coley in a four-round contest; Leamington Spa lightweight Danny Quartermine in a four-round contest and Battersea light-heavyweight Mark Williams in a four-round contest.

Also on the card will be exciting middleweight prospect Michael Hennessy Jr. from Sevenoaks, Kent, in his fifth professional bout in a six round contest.

For further information go to www.hennessysports.com or social media: Facebook @HennessySports, Twitter @HennessySports and Instagram @hennessysports and join the conversation at #PittersRichards

BritishTitle




DEONTAY WILDER & TYSON FURY MAKE GRAND ARRIVALS AT MGM GRAND

LAS VEGAS (Feb. 18, 2020) —WBC heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and lineal heavyweight champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury made their grand arrivals Tuesday afternoon at MGM Grand, kicking off fight week events for the most anticipated heavyweight showdown in two decades.

Fury (29-0-1, 20 KOs) rolled up in a red Ferrari, while Wilder (42-0-1, 41 KOs) arrived shortly after in a Rolls-Royce SUV, both greeted by throngs of fans awaiting Saturday’s clash.

They will renew their rivalry this Saturday, February 22, in a historic mega PPV event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Wilder has defended his world title successfully 10 consecutive times, while Fury is unbeaten in five bouts since returning from a nearly three-year layoff in June 2018.

The grand arrivals also featured fighters competing in the PPV undercard squaring off, including former heavyweight champion Charles Martin and former title challenger Gerald Washington, who meet in the co-main event, WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete, a.k.a. “The Mexican Iron Man”, and Filipino contender Jeo Santisima, who battle in the PPV featured bout, and unbeaten super welterweights Sebastian Fundora and Daniel Lewis, who fight in the PPV opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

This is what the main event fighters had to say Tuesday:

DEONTAY WILDER

“The first fight was great, but the second time around we’re getting even more love. It’s been a blessed feeling and I’m so excited to show my greatness come Saturday night.”

“I’m going to knock out Tyson Fury in devastating fashion on Saturday night. After I show the world what greatness lies inside of me, I will continue to go even further and do more amazing things in this sport.”

“We all know that boxing is the hurt business and we both have bad intentions coming into this fight. I’m looking forward to our energies colliding and having an amazing fight.”

TYSON FURY

“Las Vegas is the home of champions, and ‘The Gypsy King’ is here to put on a show. I am knocking that bum out in two rounds. It’s going to be an early night.”

“I’ve done all I can, and I can’t wait for Saturday night to be here. The WBC belt is the only major title I’ve yet to win. Saturday night, it will be mine.”

“Las Vegas is the new home of ‘The Gypsy King.’ This is my time. Wilder got a gift last time. That won’t happen again. I’m coming for the knockout.”

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ABOUT DEONTAY WILDER VS. TYSON FURY II
Wilder vs. Fury II will see the highly anticipated rematch between unbeaten WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and undefeated lineal champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury as they headline a historic, mega PPV event Saturday, February 22 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The Wilder vs. Fury II PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin squaring off against former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington for a 12-round IBF Heavyweight Title eliminator in the co-main event. WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete, a.k.a. “The Mexican Iron Man” will defend his title against Filipino contender Jeo Santisima in the PPV featured bout. Plus, in the PPV opener, super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora will face 2016 Australian Olympian Daniel Lewis in a 10-round battle of unbeatens.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com,www.toprank.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.foxdeportes.com and www.espn.com/boxing, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @trboxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @ESPN, @ESPNRingside, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/trboxing,www.facebook.com/foxsports, www.facebook.com/foxdeportes andwww.facebook.com/espn.




HEAVYWEIGHT KO ARTISTS (#8) ALISTAIR OVEREEM AND (#9) WALT HARRIS HEADLINE UFC® RETURN TO PORTLAND

Las Vegas – UFC® returns to Portland, Ore. for the first time in over three years with a battle of heavyweight contenders, as No. 8 ranked Alistair Overeem takes on No. 9 Walt Harris. In a pivotal strawweight contenders’ bout, former champion and No. 7 ranked Carla Esparza takes on No. 8 Michelle Waterson.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: OVEREEM vs. HARRIS will take place Saturday, April 11 at Moda Center. The main card begins at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN+ in English and Spanish, with the prelims kicking off on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 7 p.m. ET. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET.

Among the most decorated strikers in MMA, Overeem (45-18 1NC, fighting out of Amsterdam, The Netherlands) has his sights set on another highlight-reel knockout. Over the course of his career, he has earned thrilling victories over former UFC heavyweight champions Junior Dos Santos, Fabricio Werdum and Andrei Arlovski. Overeem is now poised to re-assert himself as a title threat with a specular performance.

A heavy-handed striker, Harris (13-7 1NC, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.) has earned all his MMA victories via knockout. His two most recent outings saw him finish both Aleksei Oleinik and Sergey Spivak in under one minute each. Harris also holds wins over Daniel Spitz and Chase Sherman. Harris now hopes to continue his rise up the division by netting the biggest win of his career.

The inaugural UFC women’s strawweight champion, Esparza (16-6, fighting out of Irvine, Calif.) looks to take another step back towards title contention. Winner of The Ultimate Fighter: A Champion Will Be Crowned, she holds impressive victories over Rose Namajunas, Alexa Grasso and Cynthia Calvillo. Esparza is now gunning for her third consecutive win against one of the division’s perennial contenders.

A former Invicta FC atomweight champion, Waterson (17-7, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) aims to take out her first former UFC titleholder. A talented striker and grappler, she holds entertaining wins against Karolina Kowalkiewicz, Paige VanZant and Felice Herrig, and she hopes a win over Esparza will continue her ascent up the strawweight ladder.

Additional bouts on the card include:

No. 13 ranked welterweight contender Vicente Luque (17-7-1, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) looks for another highlight-reel finish against surging Randy Brown (12-3, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.)
Eryk Anders (13-4, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.) collides with Krzysztof Jotko (21-4, fighting out of Orneta, Poland) in an entertaining middleweight bout
Niko Price (14-3 1NC, fighting out of Cape Coral, Fla.) takes on Muslim Salikhov (16-2, fighting out of Buynaksk, Dagestan, Russia) in a welterweight bout guaranteed to deliver fireworks
Tristan Connelly (14-6, fighting out of Vancouver, Canada) aims to continue the momentum from his Fight of the Night debut victory when he meets Alex da Silva (21-2, fighting out of Balneario Camboriu, SC, Brazil)
Don’Tale Mayes (7-3, fighting out of Louisville, Ky.) faces Rodrigo Nascimento (7-0, fighting out of Belo Horizonte, Brazil) in a clash of Dana White’s Contender Series signees
Markus Perez (11-3, fighting out Sao Paulo, Brazil) meets Alessio Di Chirico (12-4, fighting out of Rome, Italy) in an exciting middleweight bout
Julia Avila (7-1, fighting out of Oklahoma City, Okla.) squares off with Karol Rosa (12-3, fighting out of Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

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

Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN+®: OVEREEM vs. HARRIS go on sale Friday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. PT. Tickets are available for purchase online at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Feb. 20 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

To sign up for ESPN+, go to www.ESPNplus.com/UFC.




Q and A Unbeaten Lightweight Ruben Torres

ORANGE, Calif. (Feb. 18, 2020) – Undefeated lightweight prospect, Ruben “Ace” Torres (11-0, 9 KOs), gives an inside look into his mindset as he will headline Thompson Boxing’s “Path To Glory” event this Friday, Feb. 21st, from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Torres, age 22, who hails from South Central Los Angeles, faces the dangerous puncher from Mexico, Gabino Cota (19-10-2, 17 KOs), in an eight-round main event bout. Torres is guided by Danny Zamora and trains out of the Santa Fe Springs Activities Center in, Santa Fe Springs, Calif.

Here is what Torres had to say before his showdown this Friday.

On his desire to make his grandmother proud of him, who suddenly passed away last year:

“My grandmother was dear to my heart and I will always keep her in my memory, everything happened so fast when she passed away out of nowhere. She was my number one fan and I miss her like crazy; I’m still trying to deal with her not being here and I can’t really put it into words, but I know she’s in a better place. I will always have her spirit with me when I step into the ring and I know she’s watching over me. I’m going to continue this journey to a world title with her in my mind, I want to make her proud.”

On how his manager and trainer Danny Zamora demands that he attends college:

“My manager and trainer, Danny Zamora, has been a big influence in my life. After going to school for a few years, I dropped out to pursue my boxing career. When I came back to the Santa Fe Springs gym, Danny told me that he wouldn’t train me unless I continue to attend college. Right now, I’m taking courses at Cerritos College as advised by Zamora and I’m thankful to him for always looking out for my best interest.”

On fighting in front of the fans in Ontario as he headlines the next Path to Glory show:

“I love the energy when I fight at the Doubletree Hotel, everyone is right on top of you. I can see and hear everyone in the building and it’s not far from downtown LA, where a lot of my family is from, so its nice that they can all come see me. It’s a lot fun and electrifying to say the least.

Tickets for “Path To Glory” are priced at $60, & $100 (general seating is sold out) and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

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All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents via our Facebook page, YouTube channel, and ThompsonBoxing.com. Beto Duran will handle blow-by-blow duties, while Rich Marotta provides expert, color commentary, and both will be accompanied by Jessica Rosales who will present special features and interviews for Path to Glory. The livestream starts at 8:05 p.m. PT / 11:05 p.m. ET. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave., Ontario, CA 91764, and can be reached at 909-937-0900, doors open at 6:30 PM.

“Path To Glory” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Henry Fortifiber, Belgard Pavers and Everlast.