WBA Lightweight champion Gervonta Davis was charged in a domestic violence incident that happened over the weekend, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

The Incident happened with the mother of his daughter at a charity basketball game on Sunday in Miami.

 Davis was seen approaching a seated woman and forcefully grabbing her near her neck and pulling her out of her seat during a charity basketball game that was set up around the Super Bowl festivities. Davis then walked her out of the arena as they appeared to argue.

“As a result of an ongoing investigation after being notified through social media and the victim, on February 1, 2020, (Davis) was observed battering his former girlfriend (with) whom have a child together,” Coral Gables police said in a statement. “(Davis) surrendered himself to Coral Gables police detectives assigned to the case.”

After the video surfaced, Davis, who has a history of legal issues, wrote on social media, “I never once hit her, yea I was aggressive and told her come on… that’s the mother of my child I would never hurt her other than that happy New Years.. January was trash.”

“It looks like it’s a legal matter. We don’t comment on legal matters,” said Tim Smith, spokesman for Premier Boxing Champions, which manages Davis.

BROOKLYN (February 4, 2020) – Undefeated heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba will take on former title challenger Razvan Cojanu in the 10-round co-main event of FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, March 7 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The night of heavyweight action begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn native Adam Kownacki looking to thrill his hometown crowd when he takes on Robert Helenius in a 12-round WBA Heavyweight Title eliminator. The opening attraction will see rising heavyweight Frank Sánchez step in to face Philadelphia’s Joey Dawejko in a 10-round battle.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase now at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

The non-televised undercard lineup will include exciting Brooklyn native Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa (20-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight fight and undefeated Cuban heavyweight Robert Alfonso (19-0-1, 9 KOs) in an eight or 10-round attraction against Puerto Rico’s Carlos Negrón (20-3, 16 KOs).

Rounding out the action is heavyweight prospect Steven Torres (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round bout and the pro debut of Boston’s Francis Hogan in a four-round middleweight fight.

Nigeria’s Ajagba (12-0, 10 KOs) has increased his opposition in his recent fights and passed those tests by getting off the canvas to stop Iago Kiladze in December 2019 and defeating fellow 2016 Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen by 10-round unanimous decision in July, both on FOX. The 25-year-old Ajagba gained widespread notoriety in August 2018 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. Ajagba won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified. Living in Stafford, Texas and training with renowned veteran trainer Ronnie Shields, Ajagba will make his 2020 debut and third career appearance at Barclays Center on March 7, after four victories in 2019.

Born in Romania and now residing in Burbank, California, Cojanu (17-6, 9 KOs) most recently won a decision over Tamaz Zadishvili in October 2019. The 32-year-old has fought professionally since 2011 and rebounded from a defeat in his first pro fight to win 16 of his next 17 bouts. He defeated Zhiyu Wu in 2016 to earn a title fight against Joseph Parker, which he lost by decision in 2017. Cojanu would then go on to challenge top heavyweight contender Luis Ortiz, plus rising contenders Daniel Dubois and Nathan Gorman, in three straight fights from 2018 until his most recent triumph.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

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

NEW YORK CITY (Feb. 4, 2020) — Shakur Stevenson, the 22-year-old phenom on the cusp of pound-for-pound greatness, will make the first defense of his WBO featherweight world title Saturday, March 14, against three-time world title challenger Miguel “Escorpión” Marriaga at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden.

Three days later, Irish featherweight Michael “Mick” Conlan will make his annual St. Patrick’s Day pilgrimage at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in a 10-rounder against hard-charging Colombian veteran Belmar Preciado.

The Stevenson-Marriaga co-feature will see former junior featherweight world champion Jessie Magdaleno fight the unbeaten Sakaria Lukas in a 10-round featherweight showdown. Stevenson-Marriaga and Magdaleno-Lukas will be televised LIVE on ESPN and ESPN Deportes beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

Conlan-Preciado and a 10-round female super featherweight showdown between the unbeaten Mikaela Mayer and former featherweight world champion Melissa Hernandez will stream live in English and Spanish on ESPN+ beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets for the Stevenson-Marriaga and Conlan-Preciado cards are priced at $200, $100, $70, $40 and $30 (not including applicable fees) and go on sale Friday, Feb. 7 at 12 p.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.MSG.com.

For a limited time, when purchasing a ticket online to one of these cards, you will then be given the option to purchase discounted tickets to the other event.

“What a great two nights of boxing on ESPN and ESPN+, as we get to see Shakur Stevenson defend his title against the big-punching Marriaga and Mick Conlan continue one of boxing’s great traditions,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “New York is going to turn out in force to watch two of boxing’s great young stars.”

Stevenson (13-0, 7 KOs), the pride of “Brick City”, Newark, N.J., was the first male boxer from the 2016 Rio Olympics to win a professional world title. Last October, he bested Joet Gonzalez via unanimous decision to win the vacant WBO featherweight world title. The Gonzalez win punctuated a banner year for the Olympic silver medalist, who also defeated former world title challenger Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz on the Terence Crawford-Amir Khan PPV undercard. Last July, he headlined an ESPN telecast in front of an adoring hometown crowd of more than 5,000 at Prudential Center, knocking out Alberto Guevara in three rounds.

“We’ve been trying to make this fight with Miguel Marriaga for a long time now,” Stevenson said. “I wanted a strong opponent for my first title defense. He’s been in the ring with multiple world champions, and I am ready to prove that I am the best featherweight in the world. This is my fourth fight at Madison Square Garden, but my first as a world champion, and it will be my best performance yet. I know all of my East Coast fans will come out and support on March 14.”

Marriaga (29-3, 25 KOs), one of the division’s hardest punchers, is hoping the fourth time’s a charm. He fell short in previous world title challenges against Vasiliy Lomachenko, Oscar Valdez and Nicholas Walters, but he’s riding a four-bout winning streak (all by KO). He last fought in December 2019, knocking out Alfredo Mejia Vargas with a body shot. A native of Arjona, Colombia, he’s been scouting Stevenson as a potential foe.

“I always wanted this fight, and the time is right now that he’s a world champion,” Marriaga said. “He speaks often about how people are ducking him, but here I am. Colombia will have a new world champion March 14.”

Magdaleno (27-1, 18 KOs) is 2-0 as a featherweight since losing his junior featherweight world title to Isaac Dogboe in one of the best fights of 2018. A native of Las Vegas, he is coming off a unanimous technical decision over Rafael Rivera last August in Los Angeles. Lukas (23-0, 16 KOs), from Namibia, is one boxing’s best-kept secrets, a nine-year pro who has three knockouts in his last four fights.

“The guys people don’t know about are the dangerous ones,” Magdaleno said. “With the mindset I have now, I don’t think anybody can beat me. “My trainer {Jorge Capetillo} and I are looking ahead. I’m just waiting on what’s next, but we have to take care of business against Lukas first. Once we do that, I have every right to call out all of the champions.”

“There is a Desert Storm coming to New York in the name of Sakaria Lukas, and this storm is targeting the destruction of Jessie Magdaleno,” Lukas said.

Conlan (13-0, 7 KOs) has made Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden his professional home, as he turned pro in front of a sold-out St. Patrick’s Day crowd there back in 2017. In the years since, he has graduated from prospect to contender, as he’s the No. 1 contender for the title held by Stevenson. He went 3-0 in 2019, including a decision win in December over Olympic nemesis Vladimir Nikitin. Preciado (20-2-1, 13 KOs) will be making his third ring appearance outside of his native Colombia, and he has won two in a row since a KO loss to former world title challenger Hiroshige Osawa.

“I’m honored to return to the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden, and fight for the fourth straight St. Patrick’s Day,” Conlan said. “I know how tough Preciado is, but this fight is a great test as I continue on my path towards becoming a world champion. Fighting in New York City is very special for me. The fans have been very supportive right from the beginning at my pro debut on St. Patrick’s Day in 2017, and I look forward to putting on another tremendous show for them this year.”

“The fans will be there to see Conlan, but mark my words, they will remember me,” Preciado said. “I am more than just another ‘opponent.’ When I win, I won’t be surprised. I am prepared for a hard 10 rounds.”

Mayer (12-0, 5 KOs), who turned pro in August 2017 after representing the United States at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has been dominant in the paid ranks. One of the 130-pound division’s top contenders, she last fought Oct. 26 on the Shakur Stevenson-Joet Gonzalez undercard, knocking out Alejandra Zamora in six rounds. Hernandez (23-7-3, 7 KOs), winner of four of her last five, won the WBC female featherweight world title in 2012. Last April, she dominated then-unbeaten Selina Barrios over eight rounds.

“I’m excited to be fighting again in New York City, especially on St. Patrick’s Day at Madison Square Garden,” Mayer said. “I love that I’m going up against a former world champion because it’s going to make for a very competitive, exciting event. I’m also happy to be on a Mick Conlan card. He has a huge Irish and European fan base whom I hope to impress and turn into fans. See you at MSG!”

For more information, visit www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtags #StevensonMarriaga and #ConlanPreciado to join the conversation on social media.

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 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.

LAS VEGAS, NV (February 4, 2020) – 16-year-old featherweight prodigy Demler (DJ) Zamora III (2-0, 2 KOs), who trains out of the Pound-4-Pound Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, Nevada, continued his dominance in the ring as won via a first-round knockout last Friday, January 31st at the Big Punch Arena in Tijuana, Mexico.

DJ III landed a straight left that rocked his opponent and forced the referee to stop the contest. DJ Zamora III was a decorated amateur who now has started off his professional career with back-to-back knockouts

“The fight played out perfectly,” said DJ Zamora III. “I worked so hard in this camp and this performance shows just how much work I put in. I’m looking to go back to Mexico next month to continue my quest to become a world champion.”

“DJ trained hard for this bout and the goal is to keep him very active,” said Demler Zamora Jr, the father, and trainer of Zamora III. “He fights well beyond his age and it is showing early in his professional career with these types of performances.”

“DJ got great sparring this camp for this fight as he sparred Tugstsogt Nyambayar, who is fighting Gary Russell Jr for the WBC featherweight world title this weekend,” said Richard Barrientes Jr, DJ’s assistant coach. “DJ is a really good fighter who is getting better with each fight.”

Prodigy boxing twins, Angel Barrientes (1-0, 1 KO), and Chavez Barrientes (1-0, 1 KO), both 17-years old, didn’t get to fight as both of their opponents backed out at the last minute.

On February 28, JOE DEGUARDIA’S STAR BOXING returns to The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, for one of the most anticipated “Rockin’ Fights” to date. The return of CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN (Shirley, NY 24-1 20KO’s) to where it all began has Long Island buzzing. Seldin will be defending his NABA Super Lightweight Title against Colombian veteran HUMBERTO “METRALETTA” MARTINEZ (Monteria, Columbia 33-9-2 17KO’s).

Seldin returns after an eight-month layoff due to his torn rotator cuff. The injury occurred during perhaps Seldin’s best win to date, an 11-round TKO upset victory over 6-time world champion ZAB “SUPER” JUDAH (44-9 30KO’S) at Turning Stone during the illustrious Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend. Seldin is currently riding a three-bout knockout streak, which began at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma against NELSON LARA (17-10-4 9KO’s) on ESPN+, followed by a dominating TKO performance against ADAM MATE (28-13 21KO’s) on NESN at Mohegan Sun Arena.

Making his United States debut, Humberto Martinez will be challenging Seldin for his NABA title. Martinez is no stranger to big time fights, having challenged for the WBC Latino and Continental America’s as well as the WBO Latino Super Featherweight Titles. Taking on the likes of former world champion JORGE LINARES (then 46-5 28KO’s) and former WBC International Silver Lightweight Champion, DANTE JARDON (32-6 23KO’S), Martinez has the experience he feels is necessary to upset the hometown hero.

Seldin’s come forward, crowd pleasing, no breaks style always brings fans to their feet – especially the Seldin faithful who affectionately call themselves “Hamma Heads.” Known for his immense power, Seldin displayed improved footwork, boxing IQ and tactic during the Judah fight, which he hopes to continue to progress ahead of his February 28 bout.

Martinez believes he is up for the challenge, “I know Cletus is a very hard puncher, but we have fought hard punchers before. We are starting camp in Florida and I promise I will be in great shape and make a very good fight”

Seldin cannot wait to defend his belt in front of his Long Island faithful, “I am not only coming into this fight looking to put on a show, but what better way for me to return to The Paramount by also bringing my NABA belt home and defending it in front of my hometown fans. Be there February 28, you will not want to miss it.”

“As one of, if not the, hardest punchers at super lightweight, anytime Seldin steps in the ring, it is guaranteed to bring fireworks,” said Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA. “We are excited to bring Seldin back to where it all began, at The Paramount. He has a very pleasing style that really excites the fans. You will not want to wait to get tickets to “Rockin’ Fights” as they are already moving fast.”

“Rockin’ Fights” 38 is presented by JOE DEGUARDIA’S STAR BOXING in a thrilling night of fights from The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island. For more information follow @StarBoxing and join the conversation using #RockinFights.

HOUSTON, TEXAS – February 4, 2020 – Former world champion Guillermo Rigondeaux will seek to become a three-time, two-division world champion when he moves down to bantamweight to challenge former champion Liborio Solis for the vacant WBA title live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, February 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from PPL Center in Allentown, Pa.

“I’m trying to make history by winning a third world title in a second weight class, while also matching my two [Olympic] Gold Medals,” said Rigondeaux, who will fight at bantamweight for the first time in his career. “I want to make a statement and solidify my legacy as one of the best Cuban fighters ever. I want the boxing world to be talking about me, as I seek to become a world champion once again. February 8 will be a special day for me and my family.

“I know at super bantamweight I am a force to be reckoned with. Now that I’m moving down to bantamweight, I feel stronger and I’m getting the most out of my skills. The bantamweight and super bantamweight divisions are filled with great fighters to test myself against. It’s a very exciting time and I am training very hard for each opportunity that is granted to me.”

This will be Rigondeaux’s second straight fight working with the renowned head trainer Ronnie Shields, and conducting training camp at Shields’ gym in Houston.

“Ronnie and I are working very hard and smart,” said Rigondeaux. “We have put together a great game plan that we are going to execute on fight night. All of my tools are getting sharpened up and everyone will see that the hard work we’ve put in will pay off. Ronnie is a great coach and I’ll be fighting with something to prove on fight night.”

“He is very focused, and one of the hardest workers in the gym,” said Shields. “Rigondeaux is so determined to become a world champion once again. He comes to camp every single day with that goal, and I don’t see any way he doesn’t achieve it.”

Rigondeaux is coming off an exciting knockout win over former world champion Julio Ceja last June. The Guantanamo, Cuba native will look to capture his next world title when he faces Solis, a former super flyweight world champion for the vacant WBA belt.

“Solis is a good opponent and a worthy challenger, but I am ready to reclaim my status as a world champion,” said Rigondeaux. “I’m going to show people why I am one of the best boxers of my generation.

“This is a very big deal for me. For years I was one of the best fighters in the world, if not, the best fighter in the world. When you’re a champion, you only fight the top opponents and those are the type of fights I want. I’m going to start another long reign as champion beginning February 8.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Kings Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through www.pplcenter.com/events (direct link HERE).

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ABOUT RUSSELL VS. NYAMBAYAR
Russell vs. Nyambayar will see WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. defend his 126-pound crown against unbeaten mandatory challenger Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, February 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solís battle for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title in the co-main event, plus Jaime Arboleda meeting Jayson Vélez in a 12-round WBA Super Featherweight Title eliminator bout opening the telecast

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

Washington, D.C. (February 4, 2020)—On Friday, February 28, 2020, Greenbelt, Md., native Sam “The Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed (9-0, 5KOs) will face the toughest test of his boxing career when he squares off with Baltimore’s “Slick” Nick Kisner (21-5-1, 6KOs). The 10-round matchup for the vacant Maryland Cruiserweight Championship is presented by Jeter Promotions and will take place at the world class Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Md. The bout will serve as the chief support for the main event between super middleweights Demond Nicholson (22-3-1, 20KOs) and Mike Guy (12-4-1, 6KOs).

“It is a huge fight for me that could really change my career,” Crossed said. “A win over Nick puts me in position to fight on the world stage and I am not taking this opportunity for granted.”

While this will be their first sanctioned bout, it will not be the first time Maryland pugilists have faced each other as they have sparred hundreds of rounds preparing each other for different opponents throughout their respective careers. 

“We know each other very well,” the Greenbelt native said. “I have spent a ton of time in the ring with Nick over the years but this time we aren’t going to be wearing headgear and 16oz gloves.

“This isn’t going to be a sparring session and I plan to go out there and show how much I have improved from the fighter I was when I made my debut.”

The fan favorite Crossed hopes his 2020 is better than his 2019, a year in which he had a plethora of fights fall out due to issues beyond the fighter control.

“Last year was very frustrating; I had so many fights fall out,” Crossed explained. “I never lost focus though, and I feel great heading into this one.”

The Jeter Promotions card will be the first for the wildly popular Crossed’s bout at Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover, Md., which is just minutes from where the former Roosevelt High School football and baseball standout grew up.

“When I started this journey I figured I would have few pro bouts and then move on with my life,” the undefeated boxer stated. “To be in a position to fight for the Maryland Cruiserweight Championship in just my tenth fight in front of my hometown crowd at a venue like Live! Casino & Hotel is kind of surreal.”

Crossed previously fought on a Jeter Promotions card in 2018 and hopes to continue the relationship with world-class Maryland-based boxing promoter. 

“I would like to thank Tony and Christin of Jeter Promotions for the opportunity to fight on a platform like this and for a title at this early stage of my career,” Crossed said. “ I would also like to thank my sponsors for this fight Cloakroom D.C. and Jersey Mike’s.”

Brooklyn, N.Y. (Feb. 4, 2020) – Ronson Frank’s Uprising Promotions announced today that it has added middleweight Melody Popravak to its roster. After most recently competing in the Olympic Trials at 165 pounds, Popravak now has her sights set on making her professional debut under the Uprising Promotions banner this spring.

“Uprising Promotions has been an avid supporter of women’s boxing at our shows over the years, and we are excited to sign Melody as the first female boxer officially on our team,” said Ronson Frank, Uprising Promotions President. “Melody is a really hard worker who is dedicated to her craft. She is eager to fight, and we look forward to getting her into the ring as soon as possible.”

Originally from Fort Myers, Florida, Popravak now trains and resides in Brooklyn, New York. A high-level athlete throughout her life, she is a former NCAA Division 1 softball player at Boston University and Florida Gulf Coast University. Additionally, she achieved her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Accounting and has her Personal Trainer Certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine.

Popravak only started boxing a little over a year ago, but she quickly proved to be a fast learner. During a very successful amateur campaign, she won the 2018 New York Metros Championship, 2019 Ringmasters Silver, 2019 Eastern Qualifier Bronze and 2019 Last Chance Qualifier Silver, which solidified her spot in the 2020 Olympic Trials. She eventually placed fourth at the Olympic Trials, defeating some of the top competition in the country.

Now working towards her professional debut, Popravak is currently training under the tutelage of Steven Frank. A former IBF world title challenger and NBA super middleweight champion, Frank also competed in the 1984 Olympics and was recently inducted into the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame. Assisting him is Thomas Baldwin, who brings a high amateur pedigree and further professional experience to the team.

“I could not be in better hands than having Steven Frank as my mentor and trainer in boxing,” said Popravak. “To move into the professional ranks just as he did, and be working with Uprising Promotions as well, it is a dream come true! The entire female middleweight division is stacked with talent and excitement right now, and I am ready to add my name into the mix.”

Stay tuned as details begin to materialize on the professional debut of Popravak under the Uprising Promotions banner.

Keep it locked to UprisingPromotions.com and @UprisingNYC for all of the latest information from Uprising Promotions.

Vincent Feigenbutz (31-2, 28 KOs) hosted a press conference today in his home city of Karlsruhe ahead of flying out to Nashville, Tennessee, where he will challenge Caleb Plant (19-0, 11 KOs) for the IBF Super Middleweight World title at the Bridgestone Arena on February 15th. 

Known as the ‘KO King’ due to his 85% knockout ratio, Feigenbutz has worked himself into a mandatory position with the IBF following a run of ten consecutive victories – nine of which came within the distance. 

The 24-year-old German previously held the WBA World Super Middleweight title having stopped Mauricio Reynoso in the third round at the Gerry Weber Stadium in 2015. Feigenbutz successfully defended the title with a unanimous decision victory over Giovanni De Carolis, before losing a rematch the following year. 

Feigenbutz, who hopes to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Max Schmeling by becoming only the second German boxer to win a World title in America, informed the gathered media that Caleb Plant can expect a tough night on February 15th. 

“I am pleased that we are so close to the fight now,” said Feigenbutz. “I’m feeling fantastic and very well prepared. Caleb Plant is a tough opponent, but I’m not going to give him anything.

“I will give everything I have and fight until the last second! I want to thank my whole team and Team Sauerland for making this dream a reality for me!”

Dr. Martin Lenz, the mayor of Karlsruhe, was also in attendance at the press conference and expressed the city’s pride and support of Feigenbutz.

“It is a great honour for the city of Karlsruhe that Vincent will represent us in the USA,” said Lenz. “We are very proud of him regardless of this fight! We would also like to thank his promoter Team Sauerland and manager Rainer Gottwald for bringing the city of Karlsruhe to this big stage.

“It’s remarkable that with Regina Halmich, Sven Ottke and now Vincent Feigenbutz we produce such great boxers. The city of Karlsruhe will have our fingers crossed for Vince!”

Feigenbutz’s promoter Nisse Sauerland is confident Germany will have a new World Champion come February 15th. 

“We are delighted to make this fight happen and reward Vince’s hard work with the opportunity of becoming a two-time World Champion,” said Sauerland. “This is a great opportunity for Vincent and also for German boxing – don’t miss Vincent make history on February 15th”. 

The World title fight takes place at the 20,000-seater Bridgestone Arena and all the action will be broadcast live on Fox in the US and other territories to be released shortly. 

Martin J Ward hopes that a standout performance against Mexico’s Jesus Amparan at the FlyDSA Arena in Sheffield this Saturday February 8, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US, will get the ball rolling for a shot at one of the 130lbs World Titles in 2020.

Former European Super-Featherweight Champion Ward (23-1-2, 11 KOs) is undefeated in four fights since suffering his sole career loss to IBF World Title challenger James Tennyson back in May 2018, claiming the WBC Silver International crown against Devis Boschiero in Italy and stopping Josue Bendana in his last fight.

The Tony Sims-trained fighter is desperate for a shot at World honours having earned his stripes by taking the ‘traditional’ route, winning the British, Commonwealth and European titles since turning over in 2012. ‘Wardy’ believes that a World Title shot is on the horizon and admits any slip ups in Sheffield would be disastrous for him.

“I’m 28 years of age and I truly believe this year I will get my shot at a World Title and win a World Title,” said Ward. “That’s what it’s all about, that’s my main goal since I’ve been in boxing from the age of 8. I really feel like I’m going to have a good year this year.

“I’m going to stay in the gym, stay dedicated, keep on working hard as I do all of the time and the rewards will come. After this fight I want my shot at a World Title. I want to get this fight out of the way and look good. Hopefully we can get a title shot pencilled in after.

“I’ve got one eye on the guys that have the titles but I’ve been in camp for Jesus Amparan and my full attention is on him. There will be no slip-ups, none at all. I’m concentrating on getting the job done on him and looking good doing it.”

Talk of World Titles will come to a shuddering halt if Ward fails to impress against Amparan, a hungry 23-year-old with 14 big knockouts from 16 career wins, but Ward insists that he’s done his homework on ‘Toro’ and won’t be underestimating him in the slightest.

“He’s a big puncher, I had a little watch of him. He’s a typical Mexican fighter, all off the left hand work, it’s going to make for a good exciting fight. I need these guys coming to win to bring out the best in me and it’s a good test.

“If the stoppage comes it comes, if it doesn’t it doesn’t. He carries power as his record suggests but my speed is going to be a big factor in this fight. I’m going to put on a dominant performance so I’ve got the right to call out these big names for my next fight.

“I’ve been working a lot on my speed and putting my punches together with a different variety of shots. I’m going to put on an exciting performance. You’re going to see a better version of me, a faster version of me. I’m going to be dangerous on fight night. The big fights are coming, trust me.”

Ward has picked out Argentina’s WBA title holder Rene Alverado as a potential opponent in 2020. ‘Gemelo’ broke down and stopped Andrew Cancio in seven rounds at the Fantasy Springs Casino Resort in November to earn the title.

“Andrew Cancio was beaten by Rene Alverado at the back end of last year. Alverado is with Golden Boy. That’s definitely a fight that could happen. Matchroom and Golden Boy are working together with DAZN so that’s definitely a fight that could happen this year. Hopefully I can look good in this next fight and put myself in line for a shot at one of these champions.”

Ward vs. Amparan is part of a huge night of action in Sheffield.

Kell Brook (38-2, 26 KOs) will be aiming to shake off the ring rust and fire his name back into the mix for a Word Title shot in 2020 when he meets the USA’s Mark DeLuca (24-1, 13 KOs), Kid Galahad (26-1, 15 KOs) takes on Claudio Marrero (24-3, 17 KOs) in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Featherweight crown, Terri Harper (9-0, 5 KOs) clashes with Finland’s Eva Wahlstrom (23-1-2, 3 KOs) in a unification for the WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles, Anthony Tomlinson (11-0, 6 KOs) takes on Stewart Burt (13-1-1, 1 KO) in an Eliminator for the British and Commonwealth Welterweight titles, Dave Allen (17-5-2, 14 KOs) makes his long-awaited return after eight months out of the ring, Super-Middleweight John Docherty (7-0, 5 KO) continues his march towards a first title, Leeds Featherweight Hopey Price (2-0, 1 KO) looks to go 3-0 and Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Callum Beardow (1-0) fights for the second time as a pro.

MONTREAL (February 3, 2020) — Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM) confirmed today the signing of North American Boxing Federation (NABF) light flyweight, Montreal’s own Kim Clavel, (11-0, 2 KOs), to an exclusive, long-term promotional contract, allowing her to soon be positioned as a world title challenge.

After completing an outstanding amateur career highlighted by seven Canadian championships and a gold medal in the Continental Championship, the Canadian National Team member made her pro debut in 2017. In her last fight, Clavel took the measure of her Mexican opponent, Esmeralda Gaona Sagahon, by way of a unanimous decision to capture her first title (NABF).

Clavel will soon return to the ring where she’ll headline the March 21st Dooly’s Boxing Series at Cabaret du Casino de Montréal. Moreover, this 2020 GYM Series will be particularly devoted to Clavel, who is guaranteed to participate in at least four of the five planned events.

“When we learned that Kim Clavel had become a free agent, we expressed our interest as she is among the most talented pugilists in Canada, whatever the genre,” GYM president Yvon Michel (pictured tyo left with Kim) said. “We are convinced that Kim has the talent and team required to reach the highest peaks, and above all to have a major impact on the popularity of boxing in Quebec, thanks to her dynamism, charisma and endearing personality.”

The 29-year-old undefeated boxer is convinced that she made the right choice: “After analyzing my options,” she commented, “I concluded that the promoter who best suited my needs and my values was GYM. I want to thank them for their confidence and for this agreement which will give me the opportunity to fight as a headliner.”

Clavel trains at the Boxe Montréal gymnasium inside the Claude Robillard Centre. Her head trainer is former world super bantamweight contender, the excellent and experienced Danielle Bouchard. Her team of assistant coaches is composed of Sara Kali and Nathalie Forget, while Stéphane Larouche, Pierre Bouchard, and Carl Handy provide support as advisers.

“I am extremely happy to start this new adventure with GYM and people I have known very well for most of my life. As a coach, I love planning and I am happy to see that Kim now has a career plan designed specifically for her in order to become world champion,” Bouchard added.

Clavel is from Joliette and has a diploma in health and nursing assistance, which she obtained in Montreal in 2014. She worked in Joliette until 2019, but took an unpaid leave from work to devote herself full-time to her boxing career. Her sponsors included Christin Chevrolet, Buick and GMC.
The Dooly’s Boxing Series, held at the Cabaret du Casino de Montréal, which is a presentation of Mise-O-Jeu, in association with Videotron, is back in 2020 with five events on March 21, May 2, June 6, October 24 and December 12.

Tickets are available now on Ticketmaster.ca, 514-790-1245 / 1-855-790-1245 starting at $ 70.50 or directly at the Casino de Montréal box office. Season tickets or tables for the five events are available to a 10-percent discount by directly contacting Groupe Yvon Michel at 514.383.0666, extension 5.

: groupeyvonmichel
: @groupeyvonmichel
: @yvonmichelGYM

LOS ANGELES (Feb. 3, 2020): Three homegrown Golden Boy fighters will make their ring returns after challenging for a world title on the March 19 edition of Golden Boy and DAZN’s Thursday Night Nights at Avalon Hollywood. The event will be streamed live on DAZN, RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

In the main event, Joet Gonzalez (23-1, 14 KOs) of Glendora, Calif, will take on Chris Avalos (27-7, 20 KOs) of Lancaster, Calif. in a 10-round featherweight fight. Gonzalez will return after challenging for the WBO Featherweight World Championship in October 2019.

“I can’t wait to step back into the ring,” said Joet Gonzalez. “I fought for a world title, so I know what it’s like to be at that level. Now, I’ll be coming back with an even stronger desire to become a world champion. I want to thank my manager, Frank Espinoza, and my promoter, Golden Boy, for the opportunity. This March 19, I will not disappoint.”

“We’re coming to win,” said Chris Avalos. “We’re back on track. The old Chris Avalos is back. You [Joet] may think I’m a joke. You may think I’m washed up. But I’m coming to kick your ass. Keep your hands or you will see what happens.”

In the co-main event, Lamont Roach Jr. (19-1-1, 7 KOs) of Washington, D.C. will fight against Filipino warrior Neil John Tabanao (17-7, 11 KOs) in a 10-round super featherweight fight. Roach Jr. will come back after challenging for the WBO Junior Lightweight World Title in November 2019.

“I’ve been itching to get back in that square to show that I’m the best at 130,” said Lamont Roach Jr. “My last fight was just a glimpse, but this year it’s all the way up with me.”

“I’m looking forward to this fight against Lamont Roach Jr.,” said Niel John Tabanao. “I know that he’s coming off his first loss and that he wants to fight for a world title again. However, I more experience than he, and I know how to score an upset. We’ll see you all on March 19.”

Marlen Esparza (7-1, 1 KO) of Houston, Texas will participate in a six-round super flyweight clash against Lucia Nuñez (7-10) of Mexico City, Mexico. Esparza will return after fighting for the WBA Interim Flyweight Title in November 2019.

“I’m ready to get back in the ring,” said Marlen Esparza. “There were multiple factors that made this last fight a real learning experience, but this next round of professional boxing is just the beginning of much more. I’m looking forward to coming out with the new strategies that I’ve been learning and switching up my game a bit.”

“I’m coming to score the upset,” said Lucia Nuñez. “I know that Marlen Esparza is strong and that she has a lot of experience. But I also have those same qualities, and I’ll be coming with an even stronger will to win. We will see you all on March 19.”

The undercard of his event will be stacked with some of Golden Boy’s most promising rising stars.

Richard “Kansas Kid” Acevedo (5-0-1, 5 KOs) of Garden City, Kansas will take on Jeremy Ramos (11-8, 4 KOs) of Colorado Springs, Colorado in a six-round super welterweight battle.

Rudy “El Tiburon” Garcia (10-0, 1 KO) of Los Angeles and Andrew Strode (6-0, 1 KO) of Denver, Colorado will meet in a six-round super bantamweight bout between two undefeated prospects.

Jousce “Tito” Gonzalez (10-0-1, 9 KOs) of Glendora, Calif. will return in a six-round lightweight fight against Jose Meza (6-4, 1 KO) of Durango Mexico.

Nick Sullivan (2-0, 1 KO) of Norfolk, Va. will open the night in a four-round 135-pound clash against Marquese Steward (1-1) of Pflugerville, Texas.

Gonzalez vs. Avalos is a 10-round featherweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The fights will take place Thursday, March 19 at Avalon Hollywood. The event will be streamed live on DAZN, RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The series will also be available
on Pluto TV’s FIGHT Channel and regional sports networks around the nation. To see when and where the series is available in your area click here.

Tickets for Gonzalez vs. Avalos go on sale on Monday, Feb. 3 at 10:00 a.m. PT and are priced at $30, $40, $50, and $80, not including applicable service charges and taxes. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.goldenboytickets.com and the Golden Boy Facebook page.

Media interested in covering Gonzalez vs. Avalos must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are due Monday, March 16 at 5:00 p.m. PT. Click here to apply for a media credential. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval for a credential. You cannot transfer your credentials to someone else. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

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

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/GonzalezAvalosinto a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy for photos and videos used.

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. (February 3, 2020) – Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP) has announced it will bring professional boxing for the first time ever to Framingham, Massachusetts with “Fight Night In Framingham,” Friday night, March 20, at Sheraton Framingham Hotel.

Proceeds will benefit Fighting Life, an after-school youth boxing and academic empowerment program, available 100-percent free of charge, to students beginning in elementary school through high school education. With the continuous growth in technology and available access to various social media platforms today, children (especially those ages 11 to 18 years) are easily exposed to and influenced by various social pressures, such as but not limited to, hatred, drug availability, and everyday violence. Located out of UpperKuts Boxing Club in Ashland, Massachusetts, the Fighting Life Boxing Program was founded by owner and head coach, A.J. Thomas, as a resource and program to provide children with a positive outlet and outlook in life. Visit www.fightinglife.org to learn more about this organization.

“We are extremely happy to bring professional boxing to Framingham for the first time,” SBP president Chuck Shearns said, “in addition to teaming with such a great cause in Fighting Life. “We believe that there are plenty of boxing fans in the community who will enjoy a quality show. The early support for this event has been amazing and local businesses have been extremely charitable.

“On a personal note, SBP and Framingham have a very important history together. It is where I first met my wife, Karen, and lived when starting our family. I also boxed in Framingham when I was younger.”

The City of Framingham, located 20 miles southwest of Boston, dates back to the American Revolution and, perhaps, may be better known as being part of the famed Boston Marathon course. Framingham may never have had a pro boxing show held there, but it doesn’t necessarily mean boxing isn’t popular in the city of nearly 69,000 residents.

“We’ve had amateur boxing shows in Framingham, but this will be the first professional event,” Thomas explained. “Kids here are into boxing even though they may not be as knowledgeable about boxing as elsewhere. If more kids understand what boxing can do to better their lives, boxing would have and will get bigger with more exposure to the sport, and that’s why it’s so important to support this show.”

Framingham’s most notable boxer is 2008 USA Olympic Team alternate, Danny O’Connor, who has 30-3 (11 KOs) as a pro. Many Framingham-area boxers now have an opportunity to establish their own names in that market, starting with the March 20th show, including unbeaten super featherweight Timmy Ramos (5-0-2, 5 KOs).

Ramos, a two-time New England Golden Gloves champion, plans to grab the local spotlight in the 6-round, main event against Carlos Marrero, III (2-3-1), of Bridgeport, Connecticut. In 2017, Ramos fought to a 4-round, majority draw with Philip Davis, who Marrero upset in his last fight by way of as 4-round, split decision.

In the co-featured event, undefeated super featherweight Nelson “Chino” Perez (2-0, 2 KOs) faces an opponent to be determined in a 6-tound match. Another New England Golden Gloves champion, Puerto Rico-native Perez fights out of nearby Marlboro, MA.

In a battle of quality MMA fighters in a boxing ring, Albania-born super middleweight Kastriot “Slaughterhouse” Xhema, fighting out of Greenwich, CT, makes his pro boxing debut versus Framingham favorite Saul “The Spider” Almeida (0-10-3, 20-11 in MMA), who hails from Brazil.

Also fighting on the undercard is Southbridge, MA welterweight Wilfredo “El Sucaro” Pagan (6-1, 3 KOs) vs. Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (9-12-4, 7 KOs), in a 6-round bout; Worcester, MA super welterweight Hansen Castillo (0-3), Worcester super featherweight Ranse Andino (1-1) and pro-debuting Hartford, CT super flyweight Angel Gonzalez, Jr. against opponents to be determined in 4-round fights.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets prices are $75,.00 ringside (rows 1-3), $60.00 (seated), $45.00 standing room, and VIP tables (of 10) for $1000.00 and may be purchased HERE, at UpperKuts gym, or from any of the local fighters on the card.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first fight at 7 p.m. ET.

Street Light Ventures is the presenting sponsor. Other sponsors include Bernardi Auto Group, East Coast Herbalist, Tecate, Ashwood Advisors LLC and A Affordable Insurance.

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/ShearnsBoxingPromotions

Twitter: @ShearnsBoxing, @UpperKutsBoxing, @sheratonframingham

Instagram: @ShearnsBoxingPromotions, @Upperkuts_boxing_club, @sheratonframingham

Francesco Patera will face Devis Boschiero for the Interim WBA Lightweight World Title on the same night that Gamal Yafai challenges Luca Rigoldi for the EBU European Super-Bantamweight Title at the AGSM Forum in Verona, Italy on Friday March 27, live on DAZN.

Patera (23-3, 8 KOs) has been in red-hot form since he claimed the Vacant EBU European Lightweight crown against Lewis Ritson on away soil at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle back in October 2018.

The 26-year-old has made three successful defences of his title since, outpointing Marvin Petit in Belgium before stopping Paul Hyland Jnr in six rounds at The Allianz Cloud in Milan and most recently earning a unanimous decision against Domenico Valentino in October.

Boschiero (48-6-2, 22 KOs), a former European Super-Featherweight Champion, gets his second shot at world honours after falling short against Takahiro Ao for the WBC Super-Featherweight World Title in Tokyo, Japan back in 2011.

Yafai (17-1, 10 KOs) steps up to challenge Italy’s Rigoldi (22-1-2, 8 KOs) for the European Super-Bantamweight Title following three wins on the bounce since his first career loss to former World Title challenger Gavin McDonnell.

The Birmingham man, younger brother of undefeated WBA Super-Flyweight ruler Kal, can take a huge leap towards a World Title shot of his own should he get past Rigoldi, who is undefeated in 14 fights since March 2016.

Elsewhere on the card, Florence Cruiserweight Fabio ‘Stone Crusher’ Turchi (17-1, 13 KOs) returns following his first career loss to Tommy McCarthy in Trento, Serhiy Demchenko (22-15-1, 15 KOs) takes on Croatia’s Hrvoje Sep (10-0, 8 KOs) in an eight round Light-Heavyweight contest, Samuel Nmomah (13-0, 4 KOs) meets Christian Arvelo (12-4, 6 KOs) in an eight round Super-Welterweight contest and Roma’s unbeaten Super-Welterweight prospect Mirko Natalizi (7-0, 4 KOs) takes part in a six round contest.

Eddie Hearn said: “I’m delighted to promote the first World Title fight on a Matchroom Boxing Italy show as Franceso Patera and Devis Boschiero clash for the Interim WBA Lightweight crown. Patera has gone from strength to strength since beating Lewis Ritson in Newcastle and lands a golden opportunity against the experienced Boschiero. Gamal Yafai steps up to take on local favourite Luca Rigoldi for the European Super-Bantamweight title. Catch it all live on DAZN.”

Christian Cherchi of OPI Since 82 said: “We are proud to deliver a WBA World Title fight to the beautiful city of Verona – the first in a long time. Patera and Boschiero collide in an exciting main event, European Super-Bantamweight Champion Luca Rigoldi looks to impress against mandatory challenger Gamal Yafai and we see the return of Fabio Turchi. This is a must-watch evening on boxing shown live on DAZN.”

Tickets will be available today from ticketone.it

Mark DeLuca says his clash with former IBF Welterweight World Champion Kell Brook at the FlyDSA Arena in Sheffield on Saturday February 8 is “make or break” as he looks to cause an upset in the toughest fight of his career, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

DeLuca (24-1, 13 KOs), a durable and hard-hitting southpaw hailing from Massachusetts, avenged his sole career loss to Walter Wright in an immediate rematch in October 2018, unanimously outpointing the Seattle man over ten rounds to earn the NABA Super-Welterweight Title. 

‘The Bazooka’ added two more wins to his record in 2019, outclassing Jimmy Williams in Boston and then Brandon Brewer at the Dunkin Donuts Centre in Providence, and has been much more active than Brook in recent times, having fought 12 times since 2016. 

“This is the pinnacle of my career at this point, fighting a former World Champion,” said DeLuca. “Kell Brook fought two of boxing’s biggest boogeymen at the time in Errol Spence and Gennadiy Golovkin, he shook up their world. I have admiration and respect for Kell as a champion but in order for me to get to where he has been, I have to beat him in Sheffield.

“I can’t speak for him, but I know he is at the crossroads in his career. I know he wants to get back to where he once was and in order to do that he needs to beat me. I don’t think that he has taken this fight lightly as it’s a make or break fight for both of us.”

Brook hasn’t fought since decisioning Australia’s Michael Zerafa back in December 2018 and is determined to prove that he still belongs at the top of the sport after teaming up with trainer Dominic Ingle once again. A loss for Brook would be disastrous at this stage of his career and DeLuca insists all of the pressure will be on the Sheffield fighter. 

“I don’t really get into social media or read online comments, but I think he is feeling the pressure ahead of this one. All of his fans are waiting for him to come back and it’s in his hometown. He has to deal with this pressure and show up and perform, he has his hands full!

“This is my chance and this is my time. I feel great. I have been grinding on small cards in small venues to get to this point and I can showcase my skills and what I am all about in this fight. I am deceiving and people will look at me as a puncher but I can do cute things in there. Everything can change at any moment in a fight.

“This would be like winning a World Title for me. Although the belt isn’t on the line the man that I am fighting means everything. Fighting someone of his calibre means everything to me. I am confident in my preparation and that is what it all comes down to, fighting the best that I can, that’s all I can do.”

Brook vs. DeLuca is tops a huge night of action in Sheffield.Kid Galahad (26-1, 15 KOs) takes on Claudio Marrero (24-3, 17 KOs) in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Featherweight crown, Terri Harper (9-0, 5 KOs) clashes with Finland’s Eva Wahlstrom (23-1-2, 3 KOs) in a unification for the WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles, AnthonyTomlinson (11-0, 6 KOs) takes on Stewart Burt (13-1-1, 1 KO) in a Eliminator for the British and Commonwealth Welterweight titles, Dave Allen (17-5-2, 14 KOs) makes his long-awaited return after eight months out of the ring, Brentwood Super-Featherweight Martin Joseph Ward (23-1-2, 11 KOs) returns, Super-Middleweight John Docherty (7-0, 5 KO) continues his march towards a first title, Leeds Featherweight Hopey Price (2-0, 1 KO) looks to go 3-0 and Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Callum Beardow (1-0) fights for the second time as a pro.

NEW YORK (February 2, 2020) – Two members of the Split-T Management management stable, junior lightweight Otha Jones III and middleweight Hurshidbek Normatov scored big wins over the past five days.

Normatov got things started on Tuesday night when he gained a eight-round unanimous decision over Uriel Hernandez in Toronto.

Normatov resisted a knockdown in round seven en-route to the shutout victory by scores of 80-71.

The 27 year-old native of Brooklyn via Uzbekistan remained perfect as record jumped to 10-0. Hernandez falls to 13-6.

Otha Jones III (Photo by Damon Gonzalez)

Thursday night in Miami, Jones stopped 35-fight veteran Juan Santiago in round two of their scheduled six-round bout.

Jones was dominating over the four-and-a-half minute fight, as he featured a strong right hand that continuously found a home on the head of Santiago. Midway through the 2nd round, Jones dropped Santiago with that punch, and the bout was stopped at 1:29.

The 19 year-old native of Toledo, Ohio, Jones, who was a 21-time National Amateur Champion, improves his mark to 6-0 with two knockouts.

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD. (February 1, 2020) – Hard-hitting James Kirkland will take on all-action “Madman” Marcos Hernández in a 10-round middleweight showdown that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, March 14 from MGM National Harbor in Maryland.

The action begins at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT and features unbeaten top prospect and 2016 Lithuanian Olympian Eimantas Stanionis taking on Justin DeLoach in the 10-round welterweight co-main event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.mgmnationalharbor.com/.

“James Kirkland and Marcos Hernández both bring exciting styles to the ring that are sure to give the fans an action packed main event Saturday, March 14 live on FS1 from MGM National Harbor in Maryland,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Combined with Eimantas Stanionis, one of the 2016 Olympics’ most promising prospects, in a tough fight against the battle-tested Justin DeLoach, there will be high stakes drama in the ring for sure.”

Born in Austin and fighting out of San Antonio, Texas, Kirkland (34-2, 30 KOs) has made a name for himself as one of the most exciting and explosive fighters in the sport in a long career that’s only seen him defeated twice. The 35-year-old returned to the ring in 2019 with two knockout victories, his first action since losing to Canelo Alvarez in 2015. Kirkland sports an 83% knockout rate and has previously picked up notable wins against former champion Carlos Molina and Alfredo Angulo.

“I’m very excited to make the most of this opportunity,” said Kirkland. “I want to thank my whole team, Davies Entertainment, PBC and Warriors Boxing, for putting me in this position. It’s truly a blessing to be back in the mix. I’m training hard and perfecting my craft like always. Look for me to bring fireworks on March 14.”

The 26-year-old Hernández (14-3-1, 3 KOs) has faced excellent competition in his career, battling a litany of tough fellow rising contenders. Fighting out of Fresno, California, Hernández has twice faced current unified 154-pound champion Jeison Rosario, fighting to a draw in their first meeting before losing the rematch. He most recently lost a decision to Kevin Newman in November 2019, a rematch of a fight Hernández won in 2017. He has taken down then unbeaten fighters in Newman and Thomas Hill in 2016.

“It’s a dream come true to be in a fight like this against a dangerous man like James Kirkland,” said Hernández. “Everyone knows he has tremendous punching power and can take anyone out with one punch. But my plans are to take him to school and show him what a great boxer I am. At this point in my career, I’m ready to turn the corner and show everyone I have the talent to be a world champion. Everyone watching on FS1 will see a great battle between two warriors. The fans will get their money’s worth, that you can guarantee.”

A native of Lithuania who now lives and trains in the U.S., Stanionis (10-0, 7 KOs) is one of the most promising fighters to come out of the 2016 Olympic games and has continued to impress in the pro ranks. The 25-year-old will step up again in competition for the first time since a hand injury in May 2019 when he goes against DeLoach. Stanionis picked up three victories in 2019, beating Samuel Figueroa in March, before showing he was recovered from the hand injury by stopping Julio Cesar Sanchez and Evincii Dixon.

DeLoach (18-4, 9 KOs) will return to the ring looking to bounce back from a loss to then unbeaten Terrel Williams in April 2019. The 25-year-old put together an impressive run in 2016 and 2017, defeating three-straight unbeaten fighters in Dillon Cook, Junior Castillo and Domonique Dolton, before knocking out Christopher Pearson. The Augusta, Georgia native suffered defeats against now unified champion Jeison Rosario in 2018 and Nathaniel Gallimore in 2017, before rebounding to beat Michael Ogundo in November 2018.

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Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX, FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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

SHREVEPORT, La. – January 31, 2020 – After his fourth consecutive victory in a little more than 12 months on ShoBox: The New Generation, Ruben Villa is ready to graduate from the 19-year prospect series.

The undefeated featherweight Villa put on a boxing clinic in a dominating unanimous decision win over Alexei Collado. The judges scored the fight 99-91 and 98-92 twice in the main event Friday night from George’s Pond at Hirsch Coliseum in Shreveport, La.

Photo By Emily Harney/Banner Promotions

The 22-year-old Salinas, Calif., native Villa (18-0, 5 KOs), who entered the ring paying tribute to the late Kobe Bryant by wearing his No. 8 Lakers jersey into the ring, called his performance “solid” against a “tough and aggressive fighter.”

“He was challenging throughout the fight,” said Villa. “I feel like I put on a good show. He was a big knockout puncher and he’s no pushover. He brought out the best in me.”

Villa, who was the was also the 2014 and 2016 National Golden Gloves Champion, is currently ranked No. 5 at 126 pounds by the WBO and No. 13 by the WBC. He said after the fight he’s ready for the best his division has to offer.

The 31-year-old Cuban Collado (26-3, 23 KOs) who lives in Miami, lost for the first time in seven bouts. “It was a good fight,” said Collado, who won the 2006 Junior World Title in the flyweight division. “We both brought everything. We put on a good show for the fans. He moves a lot and he’s a smart fighter. I feel like when I threw a lot I hit him but I wasn’t active enough.”

Villa said he stayed disciplined training during the holidays. “Now I’m going to take a few weeks off and then get right back in the gym,” he said.

In the co-featured bout, undefeated Ukrainian and 2012 Olympic Bronze medalist Taras Shelestyuk (18-0, 10 KOs) recorded a dominating unanimous decision victory against Argentina’s Luis Alberto Veron (18-2-2, 9 KOs). The judges scored the 10-round welterweight fight 97-93 and 98-92 twice.

Shelestyuk, who overcame a bad fifth-round cut on his forehead, had boxed just 10 rounds in the last three years.

Photo By Emily Harney_Banner Promotions

“It was a good fight,” Shelestyuk said. “I hit him with some good shots, and controlled the fight. I have been out since March, and I feel that I performed well. I am happy to be back on television.

“The cut didn’t bother me. This is professional boxing, and these things happen. I want to be back in May or June. If I come back in the next several months, I want to fight a big name – guys like Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia.”

In the telecast opener, late replacement Sulaiman Segawa (12-2-1, 3 KOs) looked impressive in his ShoBox debut seemingly out-boxing Zhora Hamazaryan (9-1-2, 6 KOs) and recording the better stat sheet, but the close lightweight fight was called a split-decision draw. One judge had Segawa winning 78-74, another 77-75 for Hamazaryan and the third judge called it even, 76-76.

ShoBox analyst Steve Farhood had the fight scored 77-75 Segawa, while Barry Tompkins and Raul Marquez both saw it 78-74 in favor of Segawa.

“I won the fight,” said Segawa, who took the fight on just four days’ notice. “I maintained him and his aggressiveness. I came up to his weight and dictated the action. I staggered him a couple of times and he was not touching me.”

Segawa earned the better stats in nearly every category. Hamazaryan was more active (57.5 punches per round to Segawa’s 53.6) but Segawa outlanded him 130-100 overall, 42-14 jabs and 88-86 power and was more accurate in all phases (30%-22% overall, 28%-8% jabs, 31.3%-31.1% power). Segawa even led 25-22 in body connects

Segawa, 28, moved to Silver Spring, Md., two years ago and is originally from Kampala, Uganda. He has won six times against previously undefeated opponents with his two losses also to undefeated fighters.

Hamazaryan, who was making his third ShoBox appearance, returned to the ring after 16 months as he returned to his native Armenia to get his physical education degree.

“It was a good fight,” the 23-year-old Hamazaryan said. “I started slow because of the switch in opposition and felt rusty. I’m going to go right back to the gym and keep on learning. And I will be better.”

It was the second consecutive split draw for Hamazaryan, who also recorded a split draw against Thomas Mattice in his last ShoBox appearance in September of 2018.

Friday’s fights were promoted by Banner Promotions, Thompson Boxing and Bishop Promotions LLC. The full telecast will replay on Monday, February 3 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.

Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with fellow Hall of Famer 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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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.

Lightweight

Victor Padilla (8-0, 7 K0s) def. Israel Suarez (4-8-3, 1 K0), R1 2:46

Jr. Middleweights

Isaiah Wise (8-2-2, 5 K0s) def. Enver Halili (10-3, 3 K0s), K0 R2 1:27

Lightweights
Christopher Burgos (3-4-1, 1 K0) def. Sheldon Deverteuil (2-1-2), UD 59-55, 59-55, 59-55

Jr. Welterweights

Tyhler Williams (4-0, 3 K0s) def. Demetris Williams (1-7), K0 R1, 1:48

Super Middleweights

Charles Brewer, Jr. (1-0, 1 K0) def. Kyl Fritz (0-1), K0 R2, 1:17

Cruiserweights

David Stevens (3-0, 2 K0) def. Tahlik Taylor, K0 R1, 1:02

Jr. Lightweights
Shakhzod Atoev (1-0) def. Juan Ibarra (0-3), UD, 40-36, 40-36, 40-36

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TOPPENISH, Wash. (January 31, 2020) – Hot Filipino prospect Jade “Hurricane” Bornea struck America last night and he delivered, winning a 10-round split decision over previously unbeaten Ernesto Delgadillo, to capture the vacant North American Boxing Federation (NABF) super flyweight title.

Bornea vs. Delgadillo headlined RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, live and exclusively from Legends Casino in Toppenish, Washington. To sign up for UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com

Fighting for the first time as a professional in the United States, the 24-year-old Bornea (15-0, 1o KOs) went into the fight rated No. 10 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and No. 15 by the World Boxing Association (WBA). He is a former IBF World Youth and World Boxing Oriental Youth super flyweight champion.

Last night on a show presented by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions, Bornea made a name for himself outside his native Philippines with an impressive victory against Delgadillo (11-1-2, 2 KOs), a former World Boxing Council (WBC) United States super flyweight titlist.

Bornea (R) is a rising Filipino prospect

The 10-round main event was split into almost two different fights: Delgadillo effectively jabbed his way to take the early rounds, and he registered a somewhat questionable knockdown in the sixth round. Bornea successfully closed the distance after three rounds, sitting in the pocket and becoming more aggressive as the fight went on.

Bornea won a split decision (96-93 X 2 & 93-96) to become the new NABF super flyweight champion.

In the co-featured event, Northern Ireland middleweight Connor “The Kid” Coyle improved his record to 12-0 (5 KOs), needing only three minutes to take care of business. Coyle connected on a crisp combination at the end of round one, hurting his Mexican opponent, Miguel Dumas (11-3, 8 KOs). On the advice of the ringside physician, referee Joel Scobie halted the action after round one for a Coyle TKO win.

Irishman Connor Coyle improved his pro record to 12-0

In a battle of undefeated Northwest light heavyweights, Seattle’s Richard VanSicien (8-0, 4 KOs) scored a first-round stoppage of Abraham Martin (5-1, 5 KOs), of Oregon, when referee Jack Reiss waved off the fight after one round.

Washington super lightweight William Hernandez-Gomez (4-0, 2 KOs) pitched a shutout against Abdul Kamara (1-2), winning all four rounds in convincing fashion.

In a rematch of a draw, Washington super lightweight Margarito Hernandez (1-0-1) won a unanimous 4-round decision over intra-state rival Joshua Wheeler (0-1-1); Tacoma, WA featherweight Jerrell Barbour (1-0) won his professional debut with a 4-rround unanimous decision over Kendall Ward (0-6).

Florida middleweight Glenn Hagler, Jr. (4-1, 2 KOs) and Oregon’s Charon Spain (1-13-2) fought to a 4-round draw.

Official results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – VACANT NABF SUPER FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP

Jade Bornea (15-0, 10 KOs), General Santos City, Cota del Sur, Philippines
WDEC10 (96-93, 96-93, 93-96)
Ernesto Delgadillo (11-1-2, 2 KOs), Dallas, TX
(Bornea won NABF super flyweight title)

CO-FEATURE – MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Connor Coyle (12-0, 5 KOs), Derry, Northern Ireland, UK
WTKO1 (3:00)
Miguel Dumas (11-3, 8 KOs), Tijuana, Mexico

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Richard VanSicien (8-0, 4 KOs), Seattle, WA
WTKO1 (3:00)
Abraham Martin (5-1, 5 KOs), Medford, OR by way of Mexico

MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Glenn Hagler, Jr. (4-1-1, 2 KOs), Daytona Beach, FL
D4 (39-37, 38-38, 37-39)
Charon Spain (1-13-2), Portland, OR

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS
Margarito Hernandez (1-0-1), Wapato, WA
WDEC4 (39-35, 39-35, 38-36).
Joshua Wheeler (0-1-1), Blaine, WA

William Hernandez-Gomez (4-0, 2 KOs), Burlen, WA
WDEC4 (40-35, 40-35, 40-35)
Abdul Kamada (1-2), Vancouver, WA by way of Sierra Leone

FEATHERWEIGHTS
Jerrell Barbour (1-0), Tacoma, WA
WDEC4 (40-36, 39-37, 39-37)
Kendall Ward (0-6), Colorado Springs, CO

*denotes streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS

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Former junior middleweight champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout easily made weight for his showdown tomorrow night against Rosbel Montoya on the inaugural edition of boxing on the Impact Network. Trout tipped the scales at 149.1 pounds as he works his way down to campaigning in the welterweight division. His opponent Rosbel Montoya of Mexico came in at 153.6 pounds.

In the first co-feature bout, Alonzo Butler (31-3-2) weighed in at 295.6 lbs. while his opponent Jesus Albert Martinez (23-13-1) was 292.4 for their heavyweight battle. In the opening televised bout Abel Mendoza (21-0) came in just below the super featherweight limit at 129.7 pounds while his local rival Juan Carlos “Johnny” Guillen weighed in at a lean 127.4 lbs.

The action takes place at the Inn of the Mountain Gods in Mescalero, New Mexico. The televised portion of the card begins on the Impact Network at 830pm local mountain time.

Here are the rest of the weigh in results:

Brandon White (4-0) 112.2
Mario Chavez Tovar (0-3) 116.6

Robert Garcia (5-0) 151.0
Rey Trujillo (1-6-3) 155.3

Rene Palacios (3-0) 122.2
Manuel Rubalcaba (4-32-1) (weighing in later-not yet arrived)

Wanya Reid (pro debut) 167.0
Shawn Hamilton (pro debut) 155.2

Jack Story (pro debut) 208.9
Omar Acosta (1-6-1) (weighing in later-not yet arrived)

Rising Super-Middleweight talent John Docherty says he would love to headline a JD NXTGEN show in his native Scotland as he gears up for a ‘breakout’ 2020, starting with a six round contest against the Czech Republic’s Stanislav Eschner on the undercard of Kell Brook vs. Mark DeLuca at the FlyDSA Arena in Sheffield next Saturday.

The former Team GB member, now training under Tony Sims alongside Scottish fight legend Ricky Burns in Essex, made an explosive start to life in the professional ranks, demolishing his first five opponents inside the distance to earn a reputation as one of the hardest-hitting 168llbs prospects in the UK.

That KO streak came to an end when ‘The Doc’ went the distance for the first time in his career against experienced journeyman Darryl Sharp at the Exhibition Centre in Liverpool followed by another points win against Lewis van Poetsch at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle.

Despite banking some much-needed rounds in his learning fights against Sharp and Poetsch, the Montrose man is eager to get back on the KO train as he continues to work towards his first professional title opportunity in 2020.

“I had a rest over Christmas but not much as I knew I had this fight just after new year and this is a fight that I am really looking forward to putting on a show,” said Docherty. “I had an active 2019 but I’m used to fighting a lot because of my amateur background. I was performing and getting KO’s meaning I was consistently on the shows. It is just important for me to keep winning and looking good at this stage.

“I learnt so much from my last two fights against experienced journeymen in Sharp and Poetsch. They’re both slippery customers and know every trick in the book, so it was all good learning experience which is what I need at this stage of my career. Saying that, there’s still no better feeling than getting a big KO and the fans will be seeing more of that in 2020.”

Proud Scotsman Docherty has only boxed in his homeland once since turning over in October 2018, blitzing Wilmer Gonzalez in one round at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow, and the Commonwealth games bronze medallist hopes the recent signing of slick Bantamweight contender Kash Farooq might persuade promoter Eddie Hearn to venture north of the border again.

“I would love to headline a NXTGEN show, especially in Scotland! I have this fight and then an eight rounder shortly after. If the title fight comes it comes and I am ready to take that opportunity. I want the step-up to come, I am ready for it. There is a lot of good Scottish fighters at the moment so fighting back up there is something I want to do, with the likes of Ricky Burns and Kash Farooq it’s definitely possible.

“2020 is a big breakout year for me, it’s a massive year. I want to get a big fight this year and show everybody what I am all about. I have got the rounds banked in my last two fights but now I want to get back on that KO streak, hopefully starting in Sheffield. Anyone who wants it, they can get it. Simple as that. I’ll come to your back yard!”

Docherty vs. Eschner is part of a huge night of action in Sheffield.

Kell Brook (38-2, 26 KOs) will be aiming to shake off the ring rust and fire his name back into the mix for a Word Title shot in 2020 when he meets the USA’s Mark DeLuca (24-1, 13 KOs), Kid Galahad (26-1, 15 KOs) takes on Claudio Marrero (24-3, 17 KOs) in a Final Eliminator for the IBF Featherweight crown, Terri Harper (9-0, 5 KOs) clashes with Finland’s Eva Wahlstrom (23-1-2, 3 KOs) in a unification for the WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles, Anthony Tomlinson (11-0, 6 KOs) takes on Stewart Burt (13-1-1, 1 KO) in a Eliminator for the British and Commonwealth Welterweight titles, Dave Allen (17-5-2, 14 KOs) makes his long-awaited return after eight months out of the ring, Brentwood Super-Featherweight Martin Joseph Ward (23-1-2, 11 KOs) and Sheffield Super-Featherweight prospect Donte Dixon (2-0, 1 KO) return, Leeds Featherweight Hopey Price (2-0, 1 KO) looks to go 3-0 and Sheffield Light-Heavyweight Callum Beardow (1-0) fights for the second time as a pro.

Following a blockbuster year for Croatian heavyweight sensation Filip Hrgovi? (10-0, 8 KOs) and German teenage prodigy Sophie Alisch (5-0, 1 KO) both have been nominated for the WBC’s ‘Prospect of the Year’ Award for 2019.

Hrgovi? started the year in style, marking his American debut with a first-round knockout win over Gregory Corbin at the MGM National Harbor in Maryland, successfully defending his WBC International title for the first time.

‘El Animal’ then headed to Hermosillo, where he made quick work of local hero Mario Heredia. The referee waved off proceedings one minute into the third round following a brutal attack that sent the Mexican tumbling to the canvas.

The Olympic Bronze medalist then continued his impressive campaign on the biggest card of the year as he faced two-time World title challenger Eric Molina on the undercard of Joshua-Ruiz 2 in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. Hrgovi? once again ruled supreme as he forced the stoppage in the third round having dropped the American multiple times on route to sealing his tenth professional win.

Now ranked seventh with the WBC, eighth with the IBF and fifteenth with the WBO, Hrgovi? is considered one of the hottest prospects in the heavyweight division as he closes in on a World title shot in 2020. 

“Myself and my team are very satisfied with 2019,” said Hrgovi?. “I got three good wins, made my debut in America, fought in Mexico and I got to fight on the most anticipated fight night of the year in Saudi Arabia.

“The highlight of 2019 was fighting on the Ruiz Joshua 2 card. The whole world was waiting to see what was going to happen and it was a huge honour to be part of such a show. I will take 2020 step by step and continue my winning streak.”

18-year-old Alisch has been nominated in the women’s category following a magnificent 2019 that began with a knockout victory on her professional debut on February 16th in Koblenz, and concluded with an eight-round shutout points victory over two-time World title challenger Irma Adler in November.

Alisch, who won all five fights in her maiden year as a professional, is keeping her feet on the ground and hopes a successful 2020 will edge her closer to achieving her ultimate dream of becoming World Champion.

“2019 was a fantastic year for me. I got a knockout on my professional debut and ended the year with 5 victories, but we are only just beginning,” said Alisch.

“Making my debut was incredibly special for me, it was the first step towards my dream of becoming a World Champion. 2019 was full of highlights but you are only as good as your last fight. I prefer to look forward than backwards.

“My goal has been the same since I started boxing – to become a World Champion. 2020 is about chasing dreams. I want to thank everyone who has helped me on my journey so far and I look forward to sharing more success with you in the future.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland was pleased to see two of Team Sauerland’s brightest stars among the WBC’s nominations for their annual awards, and predicts 2020 will bring even greater success for the talented duo.  

“It’s great to see the WBC recognising Filip and Sophie for their fantastic achievements in 2019,” said Sauerland. 

“We see Filip as a contender rather than prospect as he is becoming a global star. He boxed in three different countries last year and won all of them by knockout. 2020 will be an even greater year. It’s now just a matter of time until he fights for a world title.

“Sophie has made a blistering start to her professional career. She knocked out her opponent in the first minute of her debut and she hasn’t slowed down since. She has only just turned 18 and is already beating World title challengers. She is known as ‘The Future’ in Germany and we expect her to be the face of female boxing for many years to come.”

LAS VEGAS (Jan. 30, 2020) — Three exciting, high-stakes showdowns have been added to the PPV undercard for the historic, mega PPV event headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between unbeaten WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and undefeated lineal champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury taking place Saturday, February 22 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
 
In the co-main event, former heavyweight world champion Charles Martin will square off against former title challenger Gerald “El Gallo Negro” Washington in a 12-round IBF Heavyweight Title eliminator. The PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and includes the PPV featured bout as WBO Junior Featherweight World Champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete, a.k.a “The Mexican Iron Man” defends his title against Filipino contender Jeo Santisima. 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.
 
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.
 
The 33-year-old Martin (27-2-1, 24 KOs) became heavyweight champion in January 2016 when he won by TKO against then unbeaten Vyacheslav Glazkov. After losing his title to Anthony Joshua, Martin has won four of his last five fights, with all of his wins coming inside the distance. Originally from St. Louis, now living in Las Vegas and currently training in Southern California with Manny Robles, Martin bounced back from a narrow decision defeat to Adam Kownacki in 2018 to earn victories in 2019 against Gregory Corbin in March and Daniel Martz in July.
 
“It is great to be back on the big stage,” said Martin. “Wilder vs. Fury II is the biggest heavyweight fight in a long time and it’s great to be on the PPV.  February 22 will get me one step closer to my goal of becoming two-time heavyweight champion. Gerald Washington is standing in my way, so it’s my job to go right through him toward my ultimate goal.”
 
Washington (20-3-1, 13 KOs) is a six-foot-six heavyweight contender who was a former college football standout at the University of Southern California and a U.S. Navy veteran. Born in San Jose, California, Washington scored an impressive victory in his last outing, knocking out veteran contender Robert Helenius in July. Washington was unbeaten in his first 19 pro fights, before dropping his world title challenge against Deontay Wilder in February 2017.
 
“This title eliminator is a very big opportunity for me and I’m going to do everything in my power to win on February 22,” said Washington. “I have the right team behind me and the right mindset. I’ve known Martin my whole career and we even spent some time working together in the ring. I’m going to be at my best and I expect the same from him. It’s an honor to be a part of an event like this. Deontay and Tyson are both characters and I’m glad I can be a part of what’s going to be a great night of boxing on February 22.”
 
Representing San Juan Zitlaltepec, Distrito Federal, México, Navarrete (30-1, 26 KOs) captured his 122-pound title by defeating Isaac Dogboe in December 2018, and emphatically retained the title by stopping Dogboe in the final round of their rematch in May 2019. The 25-year-old stayed busy after securing the title, scoring stoppage victories in successful title defenses in August, September and most recently in December, when he knocked out Francisco Horta in Mexico. He is boxing’s most active world champion, as the Santisima bout will be his fifth title defense in nine months.
 
“I am motivated to make my fifth defense in less than a year and especially because I’m proud to be part of a historic card headlined by Wilder vs. Fury II,” said Navarrete. “This is a great opportunity to put on an exhibition for the fans and showcase my talent once again. I’m very grateful to my promoters, Bob Arum and Fernando Beltran, for giving me these opportunities.”
 
The 23-year-old Santisima (19-2, 16 KOs) turned pro in 2013 as a 16-year-old and has not lost a fight since his fourth career contest in 2014. A native of Masbate City, Philippines, Santisima will ride a 17-fight winning streak into his U.S. debut and his first world title opportunity on February 22. His 2019 campaign saw him deliver victories over Alvius Maufani in August and Rene Dacquel in December.
 
“I really appreciate this opportunity, as this has been my dream since I was a kid,” said Santisima. “For this fight, I will train and prepare to become the new champion. I don’t feel any pressure. I will just do my best on fight night to show the world who I am. I heard and read the news that this fight is a mismatch, but I will do my best to give a great fight.”
 
Towering at nearly six-feet six-inches, Fundora (13-0-1, 9 KOs) has used his height and length, combined with power and aggressiveness, to rack up an unbeaten record since turning pro in 2016. Fighting out of Coachella, California, Fundora fought three times in 2019, including TKO victories over then unbeaten fighters Donnie Marshall and Hector Manuel Zepeda. The 22-year-old most recently fought to an exciting split-draw against fellow contender Jamontay Clark in August.
 
A 2016 Olympian representing his native Sydney, Australia, Lewis (6-0, 4 KOs) was unbeaten in 2019, his first year as a professional. The 26-year-old picked up his first five wins between his debut in March and his U.S. debut in November where he defeated Alexis Gaytan. Most recently, Lewis knocked out then-unbeaten Rivo Kundimang in December.
 

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LAS VEGAS, NV (January 30, 2020) – 16-year-old featherweight sensation, Demler (DJ) Zamora III (1-0, 1 KO), who trains out of the Pound-4-Pound Boxing Gym, which is one of the top gyms in Las Vegas, Nevada, will return to the ring on January 31, 2020 at the Big Punch Arena in Tijuana, Mexico.

DJ Zamora III was a decorated amateur who has never lost in international competition, winning the Monkstown Box Cup in Ireland two years in a row, and in 2017, was voted the best male boxer at that tournament.

“It is a dream come true to have my second professional fights at only sixteen years old,” said DJ Zamora III. “I am looking to have a similar performance as my professional debut, which was a first-round knockout. I am working hard, and I feel I made the right decision to turn professional at such a young age.”

DJ Zamora III is trained by his father, Demler Zamora II, and assistant coach, Richard Barrientes Jr.

“He was an outstanding amateur, but we made the decision to turn professional when he couldn’t compete in 2020 Olympics based on his age,” said Demler Zamora II, the father and trainer of DJ Zamora III. “At his height, five-foot-ten-inch, and fighting as a southpaw at featherweight, he has a major advantage over the rest of his competition. He has an incredible work ethic and I know he’s going to be something special.”

“DJ has been getting great sparring this camp as he sparred Tugstsogt Nyambayar, who is fighting Gary Russell Jr. for the WBC featherweight title,” said Richard Barrientes Jr., Zamora III’s co-trainer. “DJ is a really good fighter and will make a lot of noise in the pros.”

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 30, 2020) – Prodigy twins, Angel Barrientes (1-0, 1KO), and Chavez Barrientes (1-0, 1KO), both 17-years old, will return to the ring on January 31, 2019 at the Big Punch Arena in Tijuana, Mexico. Both will fight in separate 4-round bouts against opponents TBA.

Angel and Chavez made their professional debut last year at the bantamweight division, both winning by 1st round knockout. The two combined have won 25 nationals in the amateurs, and are looking to duplicate that success in the pros. Together they are off to a fast start as the make their 2020 debut.

“I can’t wait to put on another great performance in Mexico,” said Angel Barrientes, who goes by the nickname AK-47, and has never lost an amateur tournament, winning all fourteen that he entered. “This will be an even better performance since I know what to expect in the professional game. I’m going to be on the attack from the opening bell.”

“I am very motivated going into this fight and I know what is needed to get the win,” said Chavez “The Beast” Barrientes. “I am setting realistic goals so that I can achieve them one by one, with the next one being this upcoming fight in Mexico. I’ll be looking to take my opponent out before the final bell.”

Both Barrientes brothers are trained by their father, Richard Barrientes Jr., and managed by Bob Santos and Luis DeCubas Jr.

“The success they have had and are having as professionals is solely based upon the hard work they put into the gym,” said father and trainer Richard Barrientes Jr. “They work very hard, and that is showing up on fight night. I expect to see another great performance from both my sons.”

“The talent both of these young phenom fighters have is incomparable to most at the same age or place in the pros,” said manager Bob Santos. “It’s exciting to work with such talented fighters, who I know will be a major force in boxing for the next decade.”

NEW YORK (January 30, 2020) – Tonight at the Meridian at Island Gardens in Miami, Florida, Split-T Management’s undefeated junior lightweight prospect Otha Jones III will face by far his most experienced foe, Juan Santiago in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

Jones of Toledo, Ohio has transitioned nicely from his amateur days, where he was a 21-time national champion to having an outstanding rookie campaign that saw him go 4-0 with one knockout.

Still just 19 years-old, the Toledo, Ohio native had a good camp in preparation for Thursday’s assignment.

“Things were good. I had good sparring. I had good Calisthenics and weight training. I feel good going into this fight,” said Jones.

Jones has relied on his immense ability, and he feels that if he does what he trained to do, the positive results will continue to come.

“It really doesn’t matter who I am facing. My first opponent was 5-1, so by Santiago having 35 fights, I don’t get discouraged at all. I just keep working hard and continuing to sharpen on my craft. My brother and my father are great to have with me. I sharpen them too, and its going to be easy.”

Santiago of Denver Colorado has a record of 16-17-2 with nine knockouts, and has scored many an upset as he has wins over Jose Morales (5-0), Brad Jackson (9-2-1), Ty Barnett (16-0-1), Cesar Holguin (9-2), Donaldo Holguin (8-1) and Antonio Diaz (5-1).

This card, which will feature three world title bouts, and will take place in the same city as Sunday’s Super Bowl 54, so a large celebrity presence is expected to be ringside and Jones is eager to show his skills off.

“It means a lot to fight on the card. There is a lot of good talent on this card. It shows me that I am good enough to be around this talent. There will be a lot of good fights”

Jones knows that at just 19, he is still growing as a fighter.

“I feel and see Improvement. After each fight we go back and look at what we did wrong and what we need to work on. I am going into my 2nd year as a pro, I know that I will get to where I need to be.”

“I am looking to be the prospect of the year, and turning into a contender.I feel good and I will show everyone when I fight on Thursday” .

Jones weighed 134.8 lbs at Thursday’s weigh-in. Santiago was 132.4

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (January 29, 2020) – Undefeated 2016 U.S. Olympian Gary Antuanne Russell will take on Mexico’s José Marrufo in a 10-round super lightweight bout, while unbeaten bantamweight contender Antonio Russell steps in the ring for a 10-round fight highlighting the non-televised undercard Saturday, February 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

The card is headlined by the older brother of Gary Antuanne and Antonio, as undefeated WBC Featherweight Champion Gary Russell Jr. will defend his 126-pound crown against unbeaten mandatory challenger Tugstsogt “King Tug” Nyambayar live on SHOWTIME.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solís battle for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title in the co-main event, plus Jaime Arboleda meeting Jayson Vélez in a 12-round bout WBA Super Featherweight Title eliminator in the opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Kings Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through www.pplcenter.com/events (direct link HERE).

Undercard action will also see super welterweight contender Jamontay “The Quiet Assassin” Clark (14-1-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showdown against Mexico’s Vladimir Hernández (10-4, 6 KOs) and Springfield, Massachusetts native Anthony Velázquez (8-0, 8 KOs) in a six-round welterweight duel against Reading, Pennsylvania’s Kashon Hutchinson (7-5, 1 KO).

Rounding out the lineup is Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Torres (7-0, 3 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Edson Eduardo Neri (3-4, 2 KOs) for six rounds of bantamweight action, and a six-round battle of unbeaten welterweights as Bowie, Maryland’s Marlon Bolen (3-0, 2 KOs) squares off against Miami’s Osmel Mayorga (2-0, 1 KO).

The 23-year-old Gary Antuanne Russell (12-0, 12 KOs) has yet to allow an opponent to make it the distance against him since turning pro in 2017 following his run representing the U.S. at the 2016 Olympics. Russell added five more stoppage victories in 2019 and will be opposed by the 28-year-old Marrufo (12-9-2, 1 KO), who was born in Sonora, Mexico but fights out of Phoenix, Arizona. Marrufo split a pair of fights against then unbeaten Willie Shaw in 2019, defeating him in March before dropping a decision in the rematch in August.

Antonio Russell (16-0, 12 KOs) trains alongside his brothers Gary Antuanne and Gary Jr., with their father and head trainer Gary Russell Sr. in their Capitol Heights, Maryland hometown. The 26-year-old is unbeaten since turning pro in 2015 and picked up four wins in 2019, including his first 10-round fight, when he bested Francisco Pedroza in July, and most recently a first round stoppage of Samuel Gutierrez in November.

–MAIN EVENT–
6 Rounds – Lightweights
VICTOR PADILLA (135.6 lbs) vs ISRAEL SUAREZ (134.6 lbs)

6 Rounds – Jr. Middleweights
ENVER HALILI (154.2 lbs) vs ISAIAH WISE (155.9 lbs)

6 Rounds – Lightweight
CHRISTOPHER BURGOS (135.6 lbs) vs SHELDON DEVERTEUIL (133.4 lbs)
**
4 Rounds – Welterweights
TYHLER WILLIAMS (143.2 lbs) vs DEMETRIUS WILLIAMS (146.7 lbs)
**
4 Rounds – Super Middleweights
CHARLES BREWER JR. (173.4 lbs) vs KYL FRITZ (173.2 lbs)
**
4 Rounds – Junior Lightweights
SHAHKZOD ATOEV (127.1 lbs) vs JUAN IBARRA (130.1 lbs)
**
4 Rounds – Cruiserweights
DAVID STEVENS (179 lbs) vs TAHLIK TAYLOR (178.7 lbs)
**