ARCHIE SHARP MAKES a third defence of his WBO European super featherweight title when he takes on the unbeaten Artjoms Ramlavs at the Copper Box Arena on December 21.
 
In what is a strong addition to an already stellar BT Sport card – ‘Sharpshooter’ Sharp will be looking to solidify his position at the forefront of the 130-pound brigade. It is one of five title fights currently scheduled on the bumper bill that also includes the heavyweight collision between Daniel Dubois and Kyotaro Fujimoto for the WBO International and WBC Silver titles, Liam Williams going up against the American Alantez Fox for the right to fight for the WBO world middleweight title, Sunny Edwards and Marcel Braithwaite battling it out for the British super flyweight title, as well as the return to ring duties of Tommy Fury and title action for super welterweight contender Troy Williamson.
 
Sharp, 17-0 (9KOs) is on a roll since parting the previously unbeaten champion Lyon Woodstock from his belt in Leicester in October of last year. Injury prevented immediate title progression before he got back in the swing with a second round stoppage of Sergio Gonzalez at Wembley in April and he proceeded to make a first defence against the tough Scot Jordan McCorry at the o2 Arena in July, where he recorded a convincing points victory.
 
His most recent assignment came at the Royal Albert Hall in September, where he again defended his WBO strap, this time against the unpredictable Irishman Declan Geraghty. The Dubliner presented early problems to the Welling man before a peach of a punch dispatched by the 24-year-old spectacularly ended Geraghty’s night in the fourth round.
 
It was an emphatic statement delivered by Sharp, who is jostling for position in the super featherweight pecking order along with Commonwealth champion Zelfa Barrett and former British ruler Sam Bowen, who recently dropped a decision to Belfast man Anthony Cacace.
 
Ramlavs from Riga will enter into unfamiliar territory on the night of ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ at the Copper Box.
 
Known as ‘Supersonic’, the 30-year-old has not previously fought outside his native Latvia in a career that has spanned 11 professional fights, with six of his wins coming via KO.
 
The 5ft 7″ southpaw and the champion Sharp do have one opponent in common in the Nicaraguan Gonzalez, who Ramlavs fought in 2018 and recorded a points victory.
 
“He is a southpaw, 11-0 with six stoppages and I see he had a bit of amateur pedigree,” said Sharp on his forthcoming mission. “So we have got another unbeaten fighter to come and take me on and he is a little bit shorter than Declan (last opponent, Geraghty) and that will probably work a little bit in my favour.
 
“I think what is happening is he is tough and game, but I don’t think his ability is up there with the other boys I have fought and he will come to work and have a right go.
 
“Facing an unbeaten fighter brings another dynamic because every time he has showed up before he has won. He’s now got a shot at the WBO European title so we will see how he turns up.
 
“I’ve just got to make sure I am in tip-top shape and able to adapt to whatever he brings on December 21. It is another lively one and I think they are all going to be that now.”

ABOUT THE SHOW 

Unbeaten Heavyweight sensation Daniel Dubois (13-0) looks to continue his path of destruction against Japan’s Kyotaro Fujimoto (21-1). The WBC Silver Heavyweight championship and the WBO International Heavyweight belts will be on the line.

Liam Williams (21-2-1) faces American Alantez Fox (26-1-1) for the right to become number one in the rankings for the WBO world middleweight crown.

Sunny Edwards (13-0) fights for the vacant British super-flyweight title against former amateur teammate Marcel Braithwaite (9-1), with Light Heavyweight prospect and Love Island star Tommy Fury (2-0) making his long awaited return to the boxing ring after winning the hearts of the nation on the popular ITV reality television show over the summer. 

Tickets from £40 are now on sale via Seetickets and via Ticketmaster

£250 – Hospitality
£150 – Floor
£100 – Floor
£75 – Floor
£50 – Lower Tier
£40 – Upper Tier  

MEXICALI, MEXICO. (Dec. 12, 2019): Diego De La Hoya (21-1, 10 KOs) and Renson Robles (16-6, 9 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at the Lobby Bar at Hotel Araiza ahead of their 10-round fight. The event will take place Saturday, Dec. 14 at The Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico and will be streamed live on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Below is what today’s participants had to say at the press conference:

DIEGO DE LA HOYA, Featherweight Contender:

“I’m happy and motivated for this fight in Mexicali. I’m happy to go to war and score a victory for everyone here in my hometown. I’ve worked hard for my career, and I’m going to fight hard this Saturday.”

RENSON ROBLES, Featherweight Contender:

“I’ve been preparing a lot in Venezuela. I know it’s going to be a very hard fight, but no matter what I’m here to win.”

ROGER GUTIERREZ, Super Featherweight Contender:

“I’m prepared 100%. I love being here and I love Mexicans because they mean war and I’m ready for war.”

ANDRES TAPIA, Super Featherweight Contender:

“I’m doing a good job of keeping my confidence high. You don’t waste these types of opportunities. Roger is a great fighter and I’m going to fight hard and that trophy is staying in Mexicali.”

WILLIAM ZEPEDA, Lightweight Contender:

“I’m so honored to be here. I’m thankful for my Dad’s support and I’m excited to see all these fighters here. I’m ready to give it my all!”

JAMPIER OSES, Lightweight Contender:

“Thank you for the support. Thank you for the opportunity and we’re here for victory only. We are going to do everything right, we’re ready for Saturday.”

CHRISTIAN BAEZ, Lightweight Contender:

“It’s an honor to be here. It’s a good opportunity and thank you to the public. We’re ready for war, it’s going to be a good fight. This is my first but not my last time in Mexico.”

LUIS LOPEZ, Lightweight Contender:

“Thank you for GB for the opportunity and for being here in Mexicali and I’m excited to represent Mexicali. Christian is a great fighter, but I prepared for this fight. Like he said I’m ready for war and we’ll see each other this Saturday.”

De La Hoya vs. Robles is a 10-round featherweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The fight will take place Saturday, Dec.14, 2019 at The Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico. The event will be streamed live on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page. The series will also be available in your area, click here.

Tickets for De La Hoya vs. Robles are one sale and are available at www.Zonaticket.mx

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoy. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy Follow the conversation using #DeLaHoyaRobles. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing.

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

SPRINGFIELD, MASS. (December 12, 2019) — The official weigh in for tomorrow night’s “New England Explosion” was held today at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Below find fighters’ weights, pictures and additional information:

MAIN EVENT – CRUISERWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS*
RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA: 191.5 lbs.
“MIGHTY” JOE JONES: 197 lbs.

CO-MAIN EVENT – SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS*
“ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO: 141.5 lbs.
ANGEL “AZTEC WARRIOR” HERNANDEZ: 144.5 lbs.

SUPER LIGHTWEIGHTS – 8 ROUNDS*
OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY: 141.5 lbs.
DIEUMERCI “ELEPHANT” NZAU: 142.5 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
DERRICK “BAD BOY” WHITLEY II: 148 lbs.
JERMAINE “REAL STEEL” CORLEY: 148 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS – 6 ROUNDS
JEFFREY “THE BLACK RICAN” TORRES: 147.5 lbs.
ANTONIO FERNANDEZ: 150.5 lbs.

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – 4 ROUNDS
ANGEL VAZQUEZ(0-1), Springfield, MA 175.5 lbs.
LEANDRO SILVA (1-3), Woburn, MA 177.5 lbs.

*denotes live on NESN
(card subject to change)

TICKETS:
Ticket prices start at $40.00 (excludes facility fees and convenience charges) and are on sale now HERE the MassMutual Center Box Office, as well as through Hartford Boxing Promotions (860.840.6244 / 519.1505).

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET and the NESN broadcast commences at 9 p.m. ET.

INFO: East Hartford super lightweight “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (12-0, 4 KOs) returns home in an 8-round tilt against ANGEL “AZTEC WARRIOR” HERNANDEZ (17-14-2, 11 KO’s), Hartford cruiserweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (15-0, 12 KO’s) faces Virginia cruiserweight “MIGHTY” JOE JONES (11-1, 8 KOs), while Danbury lightweight OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (9-1, 3 KO’s) meets Dublin, Ireland’s undefeated “SLICK” VICTOR RABEI (8-0, 2 KO’s). On the undercard will be local Springfield, Mass favorites, DERRICK “BAD BOY” WHITLEY II (6-1-1) the son of Springfield’s, Derrick Whitley Sr., former USA Massachusetts State Super Middleweight Champion, as well as ANGEL VASQUEZ (0-1).

DEC. 13 “NEW ENGLAND EXPLOSION” TICKETS
Ticket prices start at $40.00 (excludes facility fees and convenience charges) and are available for purchase at HERE or at the MassMutual Center Box Office.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET

WATCH LIVE ON NESN
NESN Star Boxing Night’s, “New England Explosion” sponsored by MGM Springfield will air live for the first on New England Sports Network (NESN), starting at 9PM ET / 6PM PT. The home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox, NESN is available nationally on a sports subscription basis. NESN is the only way to watch Star Boxing’s “New England Explosion” in the New England area (except Fairfield County, CT.)

WATCH ON FITE.TV PPV
For those outside of the NESN regional footprint, you can catch the action via FITE.TV. FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on thewww.FITE.TVwebsite, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will stream the “New England Explosion,” and be available for just $14.99. Pre-order “New England Explosion” HERE.

NEW ENGLAND EXPLOSION DEC. 13 PROMO

SHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND TAG @STARBOXING

FIGHT NIGHT: FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2019
TICKETS START AT JUST $40 (PLUS FEES)
BUY TICKETS
HERE!
Previous Releases:
New England Explosion Announced
New England Explosion: Richie Rivera Returns
New England Explosion: “Action” Anthony Laureano
New England Explosion: Laureano & Rivera Visit TD Garden
New England Explosion: Feature Fighters Open Workout
New England Explosion: Omar Bordoy Steps Up vs Victor Rabei
New England Explosion: Undercard Announced

About MassMutual Center
MassMutual Center is managed by the entertainment and hospitality industry leader, MGM Springfield, and owned by the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority. MassMutual Center is Western Massachusetts’ most diverse function space with over 100,000 sq. ft. of meeting space including a 40,000 sq. ft. flexible exhibit hall, five fully-functional meeting rooms, a 15,000 sq. ft. ballroom, and an 8,000-seat arena. The facility is the proud home to the AHL Springfield Thunderbirds and American International College D1 Men’s Hockey team, in addition to hosting family shows, concerts, meetings, social and corporate functions, sporting events and more.

About MGM Springfield
MGM Springfield covers three city blocks in the heart of downtown Springfield, Mass. As the world’s first LEED™ Platinum-certified gaming resort, MGM Springfield ignites a cultural and economic renaissance in a historic New England city by seamlessly blending new design with restored historic buildings. The resort offers more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space, a 250-room boutique hotel on Main Street, superior spa services, diverse retail and inspired dining headlined by award-winning Chef Michael Mina’s Cal Mare. MGM Springfield also features a seven-screen Regal luxury cinema complex, bowling lanes, a seasonal skating rink and outdoor marketplace displaying local art, events and talent. The property opened on August 24, 2018. For additional information, please visit mgmspringfield.com.

About NESN
NESN is consistently one of the top-rated regional sports networks in the country with award-winning Red Sox and Bruins coverage. NESN and NESNplus are delivered throughout the six-state New England region and are available anytime, anywhere on any device on the NESN app and at NESN.com. The network is also distributed nationally as NESN National. For the past six years, Forbes Magazine has ranked NESN as one of the 10 Most Valuable Sports Business Brands in the World. NESN.com is one of the country’s most visited sports websites with a state-of-the-art HD studio dedicated to digital video productions. NESN’s social responsibility program, NESN Connects, is proud to support and connect its employees with charitable organizations in our communities. NESN is owned by Fenway Sports Group (owners of the Boston Red Sox) and Delaware North (owners of the Boston Bruins).

About Star Boxing
For over a quarter century Star Boxing has consistently delivered boxing events of the highest caliber that attract loyal fans from all corners of the globe. Star Boxing has promoted events at practically every locale and on every network. From the Antonio Tarver – Roy Jones trilogy to the meteoric rise of Chris Algieri and Joe Smith Jr. through the critically acclaimed Rockin’ Fights Paramount Series, Star Boxing continues to develop world rated contenders and red-hot prospects into future world champions. Founded by its Joe DeGuardia, an attorney, former boxer and respected boxing leader, Star Boxing has become revered worldwide throughout the industry for its credibility, integrity, and exciting fights.

Undefeated Middleweight star Demetrius Andrade (28-0, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO World Middleweight Championship against contender Luke Keeler (17-2-1, 5 KOs) at Meridian at Island Gardens in Miami on Thursday January 30, live on DAZN in the US and Sky Sports in the UK.

Also featured on the packed evening of boxing is Tevin Farmer (30-4-1, 6 KOs) defending his IBF world super featherweight title against JoJo Diaz (30-1, 15 KOs) and unified world super bantamweight champion Daniel Roman (27-2-1, 10 KOs) defending his titles against Murodjon Akhmadaliev (7-0, 6 KOs). 

Andrade, 31, looks to successfully defend his piece of the middleweight title for the third time as massive unification fights loom in 2020. Following his homecoming debut in front of a packed crowd in Providence, Rhode Island, Andrade continues to stay active and take on all challengers following an impressive 2019. Standing in his way is Keeler, 32, of Dublin, Ireland. The former WBO European Middleweight Champion bested top contender Luis Arias in August, and will aim to make a statement in his U.S. debut against Andrade.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring again finally! It’s a great opportunity to show the world my talents and to be part of Super Bowl weekend in Miami is incredible,” said Andrade. “Miami is a beautiful city and I’m looking to once again showing that I’m the best 160-pound fighter in the world. It’s me again!

“There are major fights for me in the Middleweight division,” Andrade continued. “Those are the fights I want and I’ve been very vocal about it. At the end of the day, I just need to keep winning. They can’t avoid me forever. On January 30, we have to take care of business against Luke Keeler. He’s tough and he’s coming to fight, which will make for a great night of action for the fans in Miami and everyone else watching around the world on DAZN.”

“Demetrius is a great fighter and I understand I’ll be written off as a huge underdog but it’s exactly how I like it, there isn’t a drop of pressure on me,” said Keeler. “It feels surreal in a way but at the same time, I’ve always visualized it so in a way I expected this opportunity to come. Again, there is no pressure on me at all. I’ll have nerves like every fight but I’m going to enjoy every moment, bounce to the ring and pull off the upset.

“It’s a life changing fight and winning brings life-changing paydays but I would’ve taken this fight for free to be in the position that comes with winning,” stated Keeler. “It puts me right up there for fights with Gennadiy Golovkin and Canelo Alvarez.”

In the chief support bout of the evening, a highly-anticipated grudge match will take center stage when Tevin Farmer puts his IBF world super featherweight title on the line against JoJo Diaz. The fight between Farmer and Diaz has been brewing for more than a year following multiple run-ins and trash talking between the two fighters. Farmer, 29, won his super featherweight strap in August 2018 against Billy Dib and successfully defended it four times in a nine-month span. Now, the slick southpaw will face Diaz, 27, also a southpaw, who will get his second chance at claiming a world championship after a decision loss to Gary Russell, Jr. in his first title opportunity in 2018.
 

On the undercard, 29-year-old unified World Super-Bantamweight champion Daniel Roman will meet undefeated Uzbekistan-native Murodjon Akhmadaliev. Roman, a Los Angeles native, unified titles when he captured the IBF World Super-Bantamweight title from TJ Doheny in front of his hometown crowd this past April in one of the most memorable fights of 2019. This fight will mark Roman’s fifth defense of the WBA title that he won in 2017. Akhmadaliev, 29, is Roman’s mandatory challenger and one of the most lauded prospects in the Super-Bantamweight division. Entering just his third year in the professional ranks and eyeing his first World Championship, the southpaw’s tremendous knockout power is expected to thoroughly test Roman’s slick boxing ability. 
“Our goal all along was to have this fight in 2019, but injuries happen so we had to be cautious and wait a little longer than we wanted,” said Roman. “I’ve been back in the gym with no limitations and I can say I feel fresh and motivated to defend my title once again. This is the longest break I’ve had between fights in a long time so it’s only natural for me to be anxious to get back in the ring. Akhmadaliev presents a strong challenge and I know that I’ll be getting his best shot, but I’ve been down this road before and everyone knows my track record in world title fights.”

“I am very glad that Daniel Roman took this fight,” said Akhmadaliev. “I know that we are both warriors and this will be a real war! Don’t miss this fight!”

DAZN presents Miami Fight Night, brought to you by Matchroom Boxing USA will be held at Meridian at Island Gardens. Meridian is a 65,000 square-foot custom built multi-level premier live event and entertainment experience that will play host to additional VIP events. DAZN and Matchroom Boxing USA will kick off the big week at Meridian as the first of three nights of entertainment leading into Sunday. 

“We are excited to provide the perfect spot for a night of world-class boxing,” said Jack Murphy of Meridian. “We built Meridian to deliver a unique, one-of-a-kind venue to host events that stand out above the rest and are deserving of first-class hospitality and VIP experience for corporations and the general public alike.  We look forward to hosting DAZN, Matchroom Boxing USA, and boxing fans worldwide.”

“I’m delighted to announce our first show of 2020 and our first ever in Miami,” said Eddie Hearn. “This triple-header is the biggest card in Miami for many years and will be held in a purpose built arena on Super Bowl weekend. All these World championship fights are great match ups and there is plenty more to come for this electric show live on DAZN.”

“We are thrilled to continue to break into new markets as we enter our second year in boxing,” said Joseph Markowski, DAZN EVP, North America. “There is nothing quite like the big game in America and we have a tremendous opportunity to showcase boxing to all of the fans and media who will also descend upon Miami that week.” 

Tickets will go on sale tomorrow at www.ticketmaster.com. More details on the special night of boxing from Miami to be announced soon.

Los Angeles, CA (December 12, 2019) Fast-Rising Super-Welterweight Star, Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (16-0, 16 KOs), of Vinitza, Ukraine, returns to battle Tomorrow Night, December 13 against heavy-handed Colombian Carlos ‘El Guerrero’ Galvan, (17-9-1, 16 KOs’) at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, CA in a scheduled eight-round bout. Bohachuk and Galvan have an outstanding combined 93% knockout victory percentage.

The event, headlined by the welterweight showdown between Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Brad Solomon is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

Trained by the renowned Abel Sanchez in Big Bear Lake, CA and promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, the 24-year-old Bohachuk, known for crowd pleasing performances, looks to capitalize on an already outstanding 2019 campaign in which he has compiled four knockout victories all taking place at the popular ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ events at the AVALON Nightclub.

Stated Sanchez, “Coming off of the October 27th win over Tyrone Brunson, training camp continued in preparation for this opportunity on this Golden Boy Promotions, Fantasy Springs event. Serhii has had very good sparring on and off the mountain, the weight has been easy to maintain because Serhii stayed in the gym training. Sparring and conditioning has been more intense; having the stellar record means he has to work that much harder to stay unbeaten.”

“Serhii is one of the most active and exciting, fastest rising stars in the sport,” said Loeffler. “We look forward to another spectacular performance tomorrow night and seeing if he can keep his perfect knockout streak alive.”

Most recently Bohachuk stopped veteran Tyrone Brunson in the fourth round on October 27, 2019 earning the vacant WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Title. Other knockout victims this year included former world title challenger Freddy Hernandez and battle-tested veterans Cleotis Pendarvis and Fernando Marin. He is currently world ranked #14 by the WBC.

The 28-year-old Galvan hits the ring against Bohachuk following a sixth-round knockout of Jose Miguel Rodriguez Berrio on November 18, 2019 in Tolu, Colombia. Over the course of his nine years as a professional Galvan has faced numerous world champions and top undefeated contenders including Caleb Plant, Willie Monroe Jr., Immanuwel Aleem, Javontae Starks and Bakhram Murtazaliev.

Advance tickets for the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino event may be purchased online HERE. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.

Harrisburg, PA (December 12, 2019)–Alycia Baumgardner (8-1, 5 KOs) will be looking to put on an emphatic performance when she appears in the headlining bout against Christina del valle Pacheco (11-12-2, 2 KOs) this Saturday night at The Zembo Shrine in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

The card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Baumgardner, 25 years old of Fremont, Ohio, has a record of 8-1 with five knockouts, and has been working hard as she prepares for this coveted main event spot.

“My training camp has been amazing. This probably the best camp that I have had so far,” said Baumgarder.

Baumgardner knows that being the headliner is a chance to raise her profile, and that is something she is not taking lightly.

“It is an awesome opportunity to be the main event. Not only does it showcase me, but it showcases women’s boxing. I want to show everybody who I am and what I represent.”

She knows that she has a tough foe in the native of Argentina, Pacheco, but Baumgardner is ready for the challenge.

“My opponent is a veteran fighter who fought for a world title and she is very experienced. so I have prepared very hard for this fight.”

Baumgardner believes that when the calendar turns to 2020, she will make a breakthrough and be recognized as one of the top fighters in the world.

“2020 will be a fruitful year. I think the public will get a good look on who I am, and since signing with King’s Promotions, I have been promoted well. I am keeping busy and getting the fights that I need to get. I am ready for anybody, and that’s facts. You will have to tune in on Saturday to see “The Bomb””

The 39 year-old Pacheco is a 13 year-professional who in her last bout lost to Yazmin Rivas for the WBA Bantamweight title on November 10, 2018 in Tijuana, Mexico.

New King’s Promotions signee Carlos Vidal (15-0, 14 KOs) of North Las Vegas will also be in action in an eight-round lightweight bout against 62-fight veteran Jonathan Perez (38-24, 30 KOs) of Barranquilla, Colombia

Undefeated heavyweight Michael Coffie (7-0, 5 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York will be in action against crafty Grover Young (13-28-3, 9 KOs) of Memphis, TN in a six-round bout

In four-round bouts:

Luis Morales (2-0) of Harrisburg, PA will take on Ayron Palmer (0-2) of Tallahassee, FL in a lightweight fight.

Roudly Lolo of Harrisburg, PA will make his pro debut against Mike Diorio (0-2) of Cortland, NY in a middleweight contest.

Brent Oren (2-2) of Harrisburg, PA takes Dewayne Williams (1-2) of Philadelphia in a middleweight bout.

Unique Harris (1-3) of Philadelphia will fight Britain Hart (3-3-2, 2 KOs) of Bedford, VA in a lightweight fight.

James Bernadin (2-0-1, 1 KO) of Lancaster, PA squares off with pro debuting Nick Baez of Bronx, NY in a lightweight bout.

Khainell Wheeler (3-0, 3 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA fights Patrick Pierre (3-9, 1 KO) of Brooklyn in a light heavyweight bout.

Tickets for this outstanding evening are $25, $50 and $400 for VIP tables and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE

The Zembo-Shine Auditorium is located at 2801 North 3rd Street, #2 in Harrisburg.

VERONA, N.Y. (Dec. 12, 2019) — The previously announced light heavyweight showdown between former world champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (24-1, 12 KOs) and Michael “Cannon Handz” Seals (24-2, 18 KOs)— Saturday, Jan. 18 from Turning Stone Resort Casino — will air live on ESPN and the ESPN App (in Spanish) beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m.

Alvarez-Seals will be part of Top Rank on ESPN’s 2020 January kickoff schedule that also includes the Jan. 11 light heavyweight battle between Jesse “Hollywood” Hart (26-2, 21 KOs) and Joe Smith Jr. (24-3, 20 KOs) on ESPN, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Alvarez-Seals and a soon-to-be-announced co-feature will follow the undercard stream live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, starting at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel, tickets priced at $89, $75, $69, $62, $59 and $40 are on sale now and can be purchased at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office, charge by phone by calling 800.771.7711 or online at Ticketmaster.

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

Use the hashtag #AlvarezSeals to join the conversation on social media.

About Turning Stone Resort Casino
Host of the January 18th event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is a Forbes Four-Star Award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year caliber boxing. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including The Lounge with Caesars Sports, its new sports book in partnership with Caesars Entertainment, four hotels, more than 20 signature dining options, two spas, a 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, multiple entertainment venues, five golf courses, and several bars and lounges offering live entertainment every weekend. Additionally, Turning Stone and the International Boxing Hall of Fame announced a multifaceted partnership to spotlight boxing throughout the entire region. The program includes a series of boxing events at Turning Stone, culminating every year in June with an elaborate and bigger-than-ever International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend celebration. International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend will be held June 11-14, 2020.

NEW YORK CITY (Dec. 11, 2019) — The fighters were all business on the press conference dais. The best triple-header of the 2019 boxing calendar didn’t need any pomp and circumstance.

Saturday evening at Madison Square Garden (ESPN, 9 p.m. ET), Terence “Bud” Crawford (35-0, 26 KOs) will defend his WBO welterweight world title against Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas (21-0-1, 17 KOs), while the co-feature will see IBF lightweight world champion Richard Commey (29-2, 26 KOs) hoping to avoid the takeover in Teofimo Lopez (14-0, 11 KOs).

The ESPN opener will see Irish sensation Michael “Mick” Conlan (12-0, 7 KOs) hoping to turn back amateur nemesis Vladimir Nikitin (3-0, 0 KOs) in a 10-rounder at featherweight. Nikitin defeated Conlan twice as an amateur, including in their 2016 Olympic quarterfinal bout, a decision that sparked international controversy.

At Wednesday’s final press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Terence Crawford

“I’m starting to get used to fighting on these big stages, so it ain’t nothing new to me. This week is going to be a great, spectacular show. I am well-prepared for whatever he brings to the table, and I’m sure they know that as well.”

“Nothing really changed between me and {trainer Brian McIntyre}. We’re a team. Iron sharpens iron. We added some more great fighters to the team. We’re pushing each other each and every day in camp. If I’m tired, {Maurice Hooker} will talk to me, ‘Come on little guy, you tired?’ And that just motivates each and every one of us to go that extra mile. Either we’re running, sparring, hitting the bag. Everything is a competition when we’re in the camp.” 

“I’m not focused on no other opponent besides the opponent that’s in front of me. My goal is to make sure I get the victory come this weekend, and that’s the only person I’m focused on now. Anyone else is talk. It goes in one ear and out the other. He’s young, hungry and I’m not taking him lightly.”

Bob Arum

“They’re all good fights.The Teofimo-Commey fight, bookmakers have made that a 50-50 fight, so that’s obviously of great interest. And the other two fights are not walkovers. They’re tough, tough matches. Terence is worth the price of admission by himself. He is pound-for-pound the best fighter in the world, and everybody will have an opportunity to watch him fight a very tough Lithuanian in Kavaliauskas, who has fought for us for many years and is a tough, tough Eastern European fighter.”

“Mick Conlan gets his chance for revenge. You all know the story. When most people thought he’d won his fight in the Olympics and Nikitin was given the nod, now they have a chance in professional boxing for revenge, a rematch. And that will be of interest to fans all over the world.”

On Commey-Lopez

“Some young man who has three of the lightweight titles and is looking to fight for a fourth will be on hand. He’s coming in on Friday to watch this match. Vasiliy Lomachenko will be here. A lot at stake in this Lopez fight with Commey. Both great fighters.”

Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas

“Crawford was on my mind from the start of training camp in June. So every day was Crawford, Crawford, Crawford. My mindset is good. I’m happy for this fight. When this fight was made officially, I was super happy. I was smiling all day. I want to fight the best, and we’re fighting in the Mecca of Boxing.”

“We started {training} in June, but we started light. Still, all the tactics, everything was about how Crawford fights, which stance {he’ll use}. Sparring, we had lots of different guys, southpaw, orthodox, guys in different stances. And the training camp, [we worked on} speed, power, sparring, technique and tactics, all in this five, six months.” 

“Going straight ahead to Crawford is not an option because he’s too smart and he showed in his last fight that he’s smart in the ring. So, yeah, we’ll work on my combinations. We don’t want to go very wild at him.”

Richard Commey

“2019 has been a great year. I’ve worked so hard coming from Ghana. You know how it is. To get to this stage, man, just an amazing feeling.”

“How many boxers have come from Ghana with a chance to fight in {The Garden} in the co-main event…God bless us, and I’m ready to retain my title. There is no way I’m going to lose.”

Teofimo Lopez

“It’s a blessing. It’s a breathtaking moment. It’s just something I have to visualize and just know that, 22 years old, I have a great opportunity here to do a lot. I’m excited, man. What better way to finish off the year than fight in the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden, for my first world title, in New York? This is a moment right here.”

On the criticism from his last fight against Masayoshi Nakatani

“I think everybody needs something like that. I needed that. Everything happens for a reason. I take everything they try to throw at me negatively and turn it into a positive. You can’t faze me. You can’t bring me down. I’m here for a reason. Teofimo is doing what he’s doing come Saturday night. We’re going to go out there and take over. I have vengeance in me. I’m holding that, holding everything. I want to shut everyone up the best way I can, and that’s doing what I do best.”

“God didn’t bring us this far for nothing. I didn’t come out here just to talk my smack and not back it up. We’re gonna do what we have to do. Richard Commey is a {former} world champion for a reason. And we know that it’s going to be a great and exciting fight.”

Michael Conlan

“This is straight business for me. There is no personal or emotional attachment to it. Vladimir, obviously he beat me in 2013 when I moved up to bantamweight. 2016, he got the decision, but he knows deep down he needs to prove something because his career will always be remembered for losing to me in the Olympics. He’s gotta prove something Saturday night. I don’t believe he will. I’ve prepared fully, and I’ve been training for 14 or 13 weeks for this camp. I’m ready for anything Saturday night.”

“It’s very fitting for me to be boxing here, having this rematch in MSG. This is where I re-started my boxing career after the Olympics, and this is where I’ll close the chapter. We’ll put everything in the past and we’ll stop talking about him because I’m fed up with it. I just want to take care of business and move on.” 

Vladimir Nikitin

“I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. I won two bouts against him in the amateurs and, right now, this is just another big step in my professional career.”

“I fought my last fight here at the {Hulu Theater} at Madison Square Garden. I’ve been in the arena. This is the next step in my professional career. I am preparing for every fight {the same}. It doesn’t matter.”

“I’m ready for 10 rounds. We’ll see what will happen in the ring.”

ESPN, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Terence Crawford vs. Egidijus Kavaliauskas, 12 rounds, Crawford’s WBO welterweight world title

Michael Conlan vs. Vladimir Nikitin, 10 rounds, featherweight

ESPN+, 5:45 p.m. ET/2:45 p.m. PT

Josue Vargas vs. Noel Murphy, 10 rounds, vacant IBF North American junior welterweight title

Edgar Berlanga vs. Cesar Nunez, 8 rounds, super middleweight

Julian Rodriguez vs. Manuel Mendez, 8 rounds, super lightweight

George Kambosos Jr. vs. Mickey Bey, 10 rounds, lightweight

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

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment and MTK Global, tickets priced at $506, $306, $206, $106 and $56 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and 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.

Use the hashtags #CrawfordMachine, #CommeyLopez and #ConlanNikitin to join the conversation on social media.

(Dec. 11, 2019) — Boxing’s most action-packed single-elimination tournament — The Golden Contract — returns Saturday from the Brentwood Centre in Brentwood, England, with the quarterfinals of the light heavyweight tournament.
 
The action begins at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service. The semifinal and championship bouts of the three Golden Contract tournaments (featherweight, super lightweight and light heavyweight) will stream on ESPN+ in 2020.
 
The eight fighters in the light heavyweight bracket are as follows: former British champion Hosea “The Hammer” Burton (24-1, 11 KOs), former British and Commonwealth champion Bob “Lionheart” Ajisafe (19-3, 9 KOs), Steven “The Quiet Man” Ward (12-0, 4 KOs), Liam Conroy (17-5-1, 9 KOs), Serge “Bavarian Sniper” Michel (9-1, 7 KOs), Latvian veteran Ricards Bolotniks (15-5-1, 6 KOs), Andre Sterling (10-1, 4 KOs) and Scottish prospect Tommy Philbin (13-0, 4 KOs).
 
The quarterfinal draw was set Wednesday afternoon and will feature the following bouts: Sterling vs. Conroy, Ward vs. Bolotniks, Philbin vs. Michel and Burton vs. Ajisafe.
 
#MTKFightNight Comes to Kazakhstan
Monday, 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT
 
Many of Kazakhstan’s top prospects will fight in a highly anticipated homecoming celebration from Baluan Sholak Sports Palace in Almaty, Kazakhstan. In the main-event, WBC International lightweight champion Viktor Kotochigov (10-0, 4 KOs) will face former South American lightweight champion Javier Jose Clavero (27-5, 5 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
 
Kotochigov, who signed with MTK Global earlier this year, has already fought in seven nations during his career. The world traveler returns home for the third time in the paid ranks for his fourth outing of 2019. A former amateur standout, Kotochigov has fought at lightweight and super lightweight as a pro, most recently defeating Jairo Lopez over 10 rounds to win the WBC International lightweight belt. Clavero, from Cordoba, Argentina, has won five of his last six and will be making only his third ring appearance away from his home country.

In other action on the ESPN+ stream:

• Kazakh prospect Iskander Kharsan (7-0, 6 KOs), who is coming off an impressive TKO victory over Isidro Ochoa on the Tyson Fury-Otto-Wallin card in Las Vegas, will face Cameroonian veteran Thomas Essomba (9-5, 3 KOs) in an eight-round bantamweight clash.
   
• Sultan Zaurbek (8-0, 6 KOs), a former Kazakh amateur sensation, will fight for the sixth time this year against Chinese veteran Leshan Li (16-3-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round junior lightweight tilt. In the unpaid ranks, Zaurbek defeated the likes of 2016 Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceicao.
   
• 2016 Olympic gold medalist Fazliddin Gaibnazarov (7-1, 4 KOs) will make his return against Jose Guadalupe Rosales (38-22, 20 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight bout.
   
• In a six-round middleweight fight, Kazakh prospect Abay Tolesh (4-0, 3 KOs) will face Czech veteran Tomas Bezvoda (8-10, 5 KOs). 

Use the hashtag #MTKFightNight to join the conversation on social media.

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

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

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

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

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA — Kiante Irving is ending 2019 on a high note with a fourth round stoppage over veteran fighter Carlos Garcia Hernandez last Saturday evening. Irving remained unbeaten, improving his record to seven wins, all by knockout.

The popular Reading middleweight, promoted by Chris Middendorf’s Victory Boxing Promotions, saw the fourth round for the first time since his September 2018 professional debut.

The two met at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh in a scheduled six round contest. Irving controlled the action throughout the fight, dropping the experienced Hernandez in the second round with a heavy right hand. The Puerto Rican fighter would finish the round, and survive until 2:32 into the fourth round, when a barrage of punches from Irving prompted Referee Ernest Sharif to wave off the bout.

It was the fourth fight for Irving in 2019, and the only one in his home state of Pennsylvania. He is expected to return in January 2020 in Washington DC.

For more information about Victory Boxing Promotions, visit www.victoryboxingpromotions.com

ONTARIO, Calf. (December 11, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo continued their heated war of words while previewing their highly anticipated rematch on “PBC FACE TO FACE” this past Saturday on FOX. The title showdown headlines FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Catch the next airings of this episode Thursday, December 12 at 11 p.m. ET and Saturday, December 14 at 5:30 p.m. ET on FS1 and Friday, December 13 at 9:30 a.m. ET and 1:00 p.m. ET on FS2.

With their rematch set to take place almost one year after their first battle, Harrison and Charlo have kept up the animosity that has boiled ever since their controversial first meeting.

“There’s not a drop of love in my heart for him,” said Harrison “There’s a lot of animosity and there’s only one way to settle it. That’s fighting. I’m the most dangerous guy in the division. I’m 6’1, super-fast, strong and I have all the attributes of a guy no one wants to fight.”

“He’s a fraud,” said Charlo. “He manipulated the system and he isn’t the real champ like I am. I’m the real champion and it will take me going in there and showing why I am the champ. I get to do that on December 21.”

The rematch was originally set to take place in June, before Harrison was forced to withdraw from the fight due to an ankle injury. Charlo went on to knockout Jorge Cota in the main event on FOX June 23. The rematch that didn’t happen has been its’ own saga and only added to the rivalry.

“He wasn’t really injured, we’re all boxers and we all go through things,” said Charlo. “It’s a wear and tear sport. It puts a lot on our mind and on our bodies. If you don’t do it the right way, it’s going to tear you down. Maybe he used the smallest excuse and used it to get him out of the fight. There’s no easy routes in this thing. When you’re at the top, you have to fight.”

“For me, everything happens for a reason,” said Harrison. “Whatever the reason was, I just answered back and said I’ll do better and make the turnaround from it. I never questioned it. I knew my heart wanted to go and keep fighting. It told me to go beat him, because he’s not what he says he is. But my brother and my dad told me that if you’re not 100 percent, no one will want to hear the excuses If you let him beat you.”

Having already squared off at four press conference and multiple “FACE TO FACE” tapings, Harrison and Charlo have had plenty of opportunities for mental battles in anticipation of their encounters in the ring.

“This is going to be easy because I’m already in his head,” said Harrison. “I think he’s trying to figure out what he has to do different to beat me. I’ve got the mental battle won. I have him all riled up, now it’s just about capitalizing.

“I’m living rent free in that head,” added Harrison. “He’s mentally weak. Period. He’s emotional. He fears me and he fears everything about me. He knows I’m a threat. He likes the way I walk. He likes everything about me. He likes the way I talk what I talk.”

“This energy he’s portraying isn’t really him,” said Charlo. “I know something about you. They made you up to be this clown. You have a different animal in front of you now. This won’t be the same Jermell Charlo on December 21. The good thing is, I get a chance to show you and everyone that night.

“I’m a passionate person,” continued Charlo. “I’m a winner. When they took that one from me, of course a passionate person is going to have a different reaction than he would have had. I found out where your heart was. I’ve been able to make more investment into myself to destroy you ever since then.”

With their high-stakes rematch just around the corner, Harrison and Charlo gave their final thoughts on how the second fight will look, and how they will put themselves in position for a career-defining victory.

‘I don’t like ‘phony’ Harrison,” said Charlo. “It’s easy to explain why the rematch will be different. I’m knocking him out. I can’t let them judges make any decisions. That’s what I need. He’s going to sleep. Cold.”

“I’m a better athlete than Jermell Charlo and I will beat this man at anything we do,” said Harrison. “I know in my heart I would never lose to a sucker and he’s a sucker. As long as he’s walking this earth, there’s nothing he can do to beat me. I’m going to dominate this man. I just want to beat him 12 rounds like he stole something.”

#

ABOUT HARRISON VS. CHARLO II
Harrison vs. Charlo II will see the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo headlining the FOX PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis fighting for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title and rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

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, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 11, 2019): Golden Boy is delighted to announce that it has signed the highly sought-after prospect Luis “El Matador” Hernandez (20-0, 18 KOs) to a promotional agreement. The reigning WBC Youth Super Lightweight Champion will return to the ring in early 2020.

Hernandez is a 23-year-old native of Chihuahua, Mexico who debuted as a professional in November 2015. Since then, he has remained undefeated across 20 fights, winning 18 of them by knockout. After several months of vetting many offers from different promoters, this young man has decided to take his career to the next level with Golden Boy. Hernandez, who has the same name as the legendary soccer player Luis “El Matador” Hernandez, will now look to follow in the footsteps of fellow fighters who also hail from Chihuahua, Mexico, such as Quirino Garcia, Juan Carlos “El Ranchero” Ramirez, David “Tacubayo” Murillo and Miguel “Mickey” Roman.

“I am very pleased to sign with the biggest promoter in the world,” said Luis Hernandez. “I have a job to do, and my promoter will get me to where I need to go, and that is to bring a world title back to Chihuahua, Mexico! Viva Mexico!”

“Luis Hernandez represents a new generation of Mexican talent, so we are proud to have him in our growing stable,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “He has an exciting style and is in a very competitive division, so we look forward to promoting Hernandez as we continue to extend our presence in Mexico and beyond.”

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

GILROY, CA (December 11, 2019) – After winning three fights on his comeback trail, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero (36-6-1, 20 KOs) is ready to step up in competition. The former multiple division world champion is looking to step in the ring with any of the big names at welterweight in the upcoming 2020 year.

“In 2020 I want to step up and fight any of the big names at welterweight,” said Guerrero. “I wouldn’t mind stepping in the ring with Mikey Garcia, who I think is one of the best fighters in boxing. I’ve always respected Mikey and I think that would be a good fight for the fans. Manny Pacquiao is another big name that I can see myself fighting. I also wouldn’t mind doing a rematch with Danny Garcia.”

In 2013, Guerrero fought Floyd Mayweather Jr., followed by some tough fights with Keith Thurman and Danny Garcia to name a few. The Ghost always gives the fans their money’s worth and he’s looking to do the same in the upcoming year.

“Everyone knows I always come to fight, who ever it is,” Guerrero continued. “I feel the time off during my lay off did my body some justice as I needed the proper rest. I’ve won all my comeback fights and now its time to step up. Given my track record, I feel I’ve earned the right to be in a big fight. 2020 is going to be a big year for me and I’m ready to take on all the big names.”

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Toyota Center with two blockbuster world championship fights. UFC light heavyweight champion and No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter Jon Jones looks to continue his dominance when he meets undefeated No. 4 ranked contender Dominick Reyes. UFC women’s strawweight champion and No. 11 pound-for-pound Valentina Shevchenko aims for her third successful title defense when she faces battle-tested No. 1 contender Katlyn Chookagian.

UFC^® 247: JONES vs. REYES will take place Saturday, Feb. 8 at Toyota Center and will stream live nationally on Pay-Per-View, exclusively through ESPN+ in the U.S. at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT in both English and Spanish.

ESPN+ is the exclusive provider of all UFC Pay-Per-View events to fans in the U.S. as part of an agreement announced in March and continuing through 2025.

As UFC^® 247: JONES vs. REYES approaches, fans will be able to purchase itonline at ESPNPlus.com/PPV or on the ESPN App on mobile and connected-TV devices. ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App on all major mobile and connected TV devices and platforms, including Amazon Fire, Apple, Android, Chromecast, PS4, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, X Box One and more.

Preliminary fights will air nationally in English on ESPN and on ESPN Deportes (in Spanish) starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT with the early prelims simulcast on UFC Fight Pass and ESPN+ at 6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT.

The most dominant light heavyweight champion in UFC history, Jones (25-1 1NC, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) aims to tie the UFC record for total title defenses at 11. Throughout his storied career, Jones has earned impressive victories over world champions Daniel Cormier, Rashad Evans, Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson and Shogun Rua. He now looks to put on another show-stealing performance to further etch his name in the history books.

A dangerous finisher sporting a perfect record, Reyes (12-0, fighting out of Victoriaville, Calif.) looks to become the first fighter to stop Jones. Since joining the UFC roster in 2017, he has delivered memorable wins against Chris Weidman, Volkan Oezdemir, Ovince Saint Preux and Jared Cannonier. He now hopes to become the 14^th undefeated fighter to earn a UFC world championship by dethroning one of the biggest names in mixed martial arts.

Undefeated since moving to the UFC flyweight division in 2018, Shevchenko (18-3, fighting out of Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan) has proven to be a force at 125 pounds. After capturing the vacant championship last year against Joanna Jedrzejczyk, the former kickboxer has delivered successful title defenses over Jessica Eye and Liz Carmouche. Shevchenko aims to keep her spot at the top with another spectacular performance.

A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt under Renzo Gracie, Chookagian (13-2, fighting out of Kenilworth, N.J.) has proven herself to be one of the toughest fighters on the UFC flyweight roster. Throughout her career, she has secured impressive wins against Jennifer Maia, Joanne Calderwood and Alexis Davis. Chookagian looks to stop Shevchenko and achieve her dream of winning a UFC championship.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 5 ranked contender Derrick Lewis (22-7 1NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) goes for another highlight-reel KO when he welcomes Ilir Latifi (15-7 1NC, fighting out of Malmo, Sweden) to the heavyweight division
• In a pivotal flyweight contenders’ bout, No. 6 ranked Lauren Murphy (11-4, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.) takes on No. 8 Andrea Lee (11-3, fighting out of Shreveport, La.)
• Heavyweight prospects collide when Juan Adams (5-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas) faces Justin Tafa (3-1, fighting out of Brisbane, Australia)
• Mirsad Bektic (13-2, fighting out of Montreal, Canada by way of Srebrenica, Bosnia) squares off with Dan Ige (12-2, fighting out of Haleiwa, Hawaii) in an exciting featherweight bout

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts live and subject to change.

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

Tickets for UFC^® 247: JONES vs. REYES go on sale Friday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. CT. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.toyotacenter.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 10 a.m. CT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Dec. 12 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

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About UFC^®

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

About Toyota Center:
Since opening in October 2003, Toyota Center has set a new standard for sports and entertainment, becoming one of the premier live entertainment venues in the nation. Laid over the span of six city blocks, Toyota Center is home to the NBA’s Houston Rockets. Toyota Center also plays host to the nation’s top concerts and touring shows. The arena’s playing surface is set nearly 32-feet below street level giving Toyota Center the largest lower level of any arena in the nation. Coupled with the exclusive Lexus Lounge, trendy Golden Nugget Club, Red and White Bistro’s superior food and service, Toyota Center offers something for everyone making it the hottest spot for sports and entertainment in Houston. For more information, visit ToyotaCenter.com.

About ESPN+

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

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

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

About ESPN

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

Top Rank on ESPN returns to the big house at Madison Square Garden, the historic “Mecca of Boxing”, this Saturday, December 14, for a live presentation of a special tripleheader headlined by pound-for-pound undefeated king, Terence “Bud” Crawford (35-0, 26 KOs), defending his WBO welterweight world title against mandatory challenger, Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas (21-0-1, 17 KOs). The undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET. Main event coverage will air exclusively on ESPN and stream on the ESPN App (in Spanish) starting at 9 p.m. ET. ESPN Deportes will join the event in progress at 10 p.m. ET.   

The tripleheader will also feature IBF lightweight world champion Richard “RC” Commey (29-2, 26 KOs) defending his title against Brooklyn native and rising star Teofimo Lopez (14-0, 11 KOs). In addition, in a 10-round featherweight special attraction, Irish sensation and New York fan favorite Michael “Mick” Conlan (12-0, 7 KOs), will take on the undefeated Russian Vladimir Nikitin (3-0, 0 KOs) in a rematch of their highly controversial 2016 Olympic quarterfinal bout.  

Calling the action for ESPN will be Joe Tessitore (play-by-play), former #1 pound-for-pound two-division world titleholder and 2004 Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward (analyst), and former two-division world titleholder Tim Bradley (analyst). The on-location desk team will feature analysis from Max Kellerman, Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna.  

ESPN’s presentation will feature unique production enhancements to bring fans closer to the ring and deliver views that enhance their experience. The production will feature 25 cameras, including a mini FlyCam, an aerial tracking camera system, five super-slow-motion cameras, a jib camera for unique 360-degree vertical and horizontal shots, as well as bumper corner cameras.  The mini FlyCam and bumper corner cameras were exclusively developed for Top Rank on ESPN telecasts.  

ESPN’s official coverage of fight week continues Wed., Dec 11 with a re-air of “Blood, Sweat & Tears: Countdown to Crawford vs. Kavaliauskas,” (ESPNEWS, 8 p.m. ET) a show that takes fans inside the training camps of the main event fighters. 

Coverage will also include:

Preview here

• Unguarded: Andre Ward with Terence Crawford – in-depth one-on-one interview between ESPN’s Andre Ward and Terence Crawford. 
• Crawford vs. Kavaliauskas official press conference (Wednesday, Dec. 11 at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN+).
• New episode of “The Prospects” featuring Michael Conlan (Available now on ESPN+).
• 17 on-demand replays of Crawford’s past fights, including showdowns with Yuriorkis Gamboa, Amir Khan, Jeff Horn, Julius Indongo and more.  (Exclusively on-demand on ESPN+).
• Max on Boxing: Crawford vs. Kavaliauskas Weigh-in (Friday, Dec. 13 at 4:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, Live).

From ESPN.Com

Preview here

• A video and written piece from Mark Kriegel on Teofimo Lopez, boxing’s most electrifying young fighter, who was 14-0, on the cusp of a title shot, but was also about to crack, carrying a weight that went back generations. On ESPN.Com Thursday, Dec. 12. 
• Tim Bradley breaks down the Crawford-Kavaliauskas bout (available Tuesday, Dec. 10 on ESPN+).
• News updates, predictions and a complete guide to the fight on ESPN.com and the ESPN app from Dan Rafael out Friday, Dec. 13.  

Top Rank on ESPN(All times Eastern)

About ESPN+

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

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

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

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

ATLANTA (December 11, 2019) – More tickets are now available for the December 28 event at the award-winning State Farm Arena that is headlined by boxing’s hottest attraction Gervonta “Tank” Davis taking on former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in the first world title fight in Atlanta since 1998.

Good tickets are still available through www.ticketmaster.com. All tickets start at $54 and $104.

Former super middleweight world champion José “Bolivita” Uzcátegui will return to battle Lionell Thompson in a 10-round fight that opens the action live on SHOWTIME as part of a special year-end Premier Boxing Champions event.

The main event will see the two-time super featherweight champion Davis as he moves up in weight to battle the former unified champion Gamboa for the vacant WBA Lightweight Title in a show promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions.

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will feature a co-main event pitting WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal against two-division champion Badou Jack in action that starts at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

The 28-year-old Uzcátegui (29-3, 24 KOs) captured the Interim IBF 168-pound world title in March 2018 by stopping top contender Andre Dirrell after eight rounds of their rematch on SHOWTIME and was elevated to full champion shortly after the bout. Originally from Venezuela but now fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico, Uzcátegui bounced back from a decision loss to Caleb Plant in his first world title defense in January by knocking out Roberto Valdez in September. Prior to defeating Dirrell, he put together a four-fight winning streak after suffering his first career loss, including an explosive knockout of then unbeaten Julius Jackson.

“Everyone will see the real ‘Bolivita’ on December 28 in Atlanta,” said Uzcátegui. “I’m very excited for this fight announcement and I’m thankful to everyone involved in making this happen. I’m going to be 100 percent ready for anything that my opponent brings and show the best version of myself. I’m ready to finish this year on a high and positive note with a win against Thompson.”

Born in Buffalo, New York and now fighting out of Las Vegas, Thompson (21-5, 12 KOs) has won back-to-back fights by stopping Scott Sigmon in September and winning a 10-round decision over Derrick Findley in 2018. The 34-year-old owns victories over tough prospects Earl Newman and Steve Lovett and has come up short in tough fights against stiff competition including Sergey Kovalev, Edwin Rodriguez and Radivoje Kalajdzic.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m thankful my team got me this fight,” said Thompson. “Some people told me I’m too small for light heavyweight, so I made the decision to come down to 168. The only real fight I see is to make weight the right way. They say he’s a big puncher, but I can punch too. I’ve hung in there with the best of the best again and again. It’s the guys who come to fight that really bring the best out of me so if he comes to fight, this will be a great fight for the fans.”

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA
Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

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

World Championship winning kickboxer Artur Kyshenko will make his professional boxing debut this Thursday night at the Palau Olympic Vall D’Hebron in Barcelona, live on DAZN in Spain.

Kyshenko, who began his glittering kickboxing career back in 2003, will step into the realm of professional boxing for the first time as Matchroom Boxing raise the curtain on their Spanish venture with a double-header of European title action.

Campaigning across multiple weight divisions, Kyshenko amassed 90 wins on the professional circuit, securing World Championship status in 2015 when he won Beijing’s Kunlun Fight Tournament with just 22 seconds on the clock. 

Fans favourite Kyshenko is seen as a pioneer of kickboxing in his native Ukraine, opening two gyms of his own to promote young fighters, most recently last year in Barcelona. 

The 33-year-old also organised the suitably named Kyshenko Cup in 2016, giving opportunities to children across four countries in Europe to compete including in his homeland, where both Oleksandr Usyk and Vasiliy Lomachenko helped with the tournaments promotion.

Despite being ranked #1 by Combat Press at Welterweight as of last year, Egis Klimas managed Kyshenko will compete at Super-Middleweight in his anticipated six round debut this week – with a stern first test in store against seasoned Colombian knockout artist, Beibi Berrocal (17-5, 16 KOs).

On his highly-anticipated debut Kyshenko said: “I’m very excited to be making my professional boxing debut on DAZN. This is a great platform and a big opportunity for me to get off to a winning start in the boxing ring!”

NEW YORK CITY (Dec. 10, 2019) — Pound-for-pound king and WBO welterweight world champion Terence “Bud” Crawford returns to Madison Square Garden Saturday evening (9 p.m. ET, ESPN) as the headliner for the card of the year, a three-headed monster that will follow the Heisman Trophy ceremony.

Crawford (35-0, 26 KOs) will make the third defense of his welterweight crown against No. 1 contender Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas (21-0-1, 17 KOs), Richard Commey (29-2, 26 KOs) will defend his IBF lightweight world title against unbeaten sensation Teofimo Lopez (14-0, 11 KOs)and Michael Conlan (12-0, 7 KOs) hopes to gain revenge on former 2016 Russian Olympic nemesis Vladimir Nikitin (3-0, 0 KOs).

The ESPN+ undercard (5:45 p.m. ET) will feature Bronx-born super lightweight Josue Vargas (15-1, 9 KOs) against Noel Murphy (14-1-1, 2 KOs) and Brooklyn-born knockout artist Edgar “The Chosen One” Berlanga (12-0, 12 KOs), who has never seen the second round as a pro, against the durable Cesar Nunez (16-1-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight showdown.

At Tuesday’s media workout, this is what the fighters had to say.

Terence Crawford

On the pressure of being a top pound-for-pound fighter

“It’s a blessing because it motivates me and adds fuel to the fire. I like proving people wrong. That’s more joy for me.”

“{New York} is one of the big stages. Vegas is a big stage. I do my thing in the ring, and every time I fight, I send a message to all the welterweights out there.”

“Everyone poses a threat. {Kavaliauskas} is a good fighter. He is a two-time Olympian for a reason. He’s undefeated, strong and hungry.”

On his popularity in Omaha now

“It’s the same. I’ve been the around the city since my amateur days. Some people want a picture, others shake my hand and say, ‘What’s up?’ 

“When I was at 140, everybody criticized me and said I was too big for 140. When I was at 140, everyone said I was too big for 135. If I was to go back down to 140, what would everybody say? I’m picking and bullying people. There you have it.”

On “sides of the street” in boxing

“Well, Deontay Wilder is about to fight Tyson Fury and you never hear about any ‘sides of the street.’ It’s just something people say when it comes to Terence Crawford. You don’t hear ‘wrong side of the street’ with any other fighter but Terence Crawford. Why do all these other fights get made, but when it’s Terence Crawford, it’s about the ‘wrong side of the street?'”

Egidijus Kavaliauskas 

“This is a great opportunity for me against the world’s best fighter. When I win, I will be considered one of the world’s best fighters.”

“Terence Crawford is a great fighter, which is why I wanted this fight. I am ranked number one for a reason. I am here for a reason, and I can’t wait for Saturday night.”

“The way to win a title is to fight the best, and Terence is the best welterweight in the world. I want that title, and I will be the first Lithuanian-born boxer ever to win a world title.”

Teofimo Lopez

“If someone were to tell me I’d win my first world title at 22 years old at Madison Square Garden, I wouldn’t believe it. It’s huge. It’s happening, and it’s a blessing. We have the opportunity, and this is what we’re doing. Nine weeks in camp. I know ya’ll have seen the pictures. We’re ready, man.”

“Everybody is ready. We’re ready. He’s ready. Everyone will be tuned in for a reason. All I want is a great night for all the fans. When you have a great style fight like this, it’s going to be a short night.”

“We gotta get the job done on Saturday. We ain’t there yet.”

“I felt much happier than all my other camps. It’s a new me. I came back rejuvenated and ready to go. These last two fights, I missed that. I needed to go through these trials to make me the man I am today.”

“I have a great team behind me. I have everything I need.”

“We all saw what happened last year when I fought after the Heisman celebration. Look out.”

Richard Commey

“I won my title in February, and I look forward to defending my title for the second time, my first fight at Madison Square Garden, home of champions.”

“I look forward to facing Teofimo Lopez and proving my worth in the ring. This is going to be one hell of a fight.”

Michael Conlan

“It’s nothing personal with Vladimir and I, but I have a job to do on Saturday night, and it’s going to be a demolition job.”

“This fight is a long time coming. We were supposed to fight in August, but Vladimir got injured. I’m excited. We’re ready to rock, and the fans in New York can expect a big performance.”

“Listen, regardless of what I think about the {amateur} judges, I have never officially beaten him. I need to go out there and get my hand raised. I want to right the wrong of what happened in Rio.”

Vladimir Nikitin

On the two amateur fights against Conlan

“We fought twice, and I won both times. I know this is the professional game, and I am happy that I have to chance to prove that I am once again the better fighter.”

On the biceps injury he suffered that postponed the original fight date

“I was upset that I had to cancel the fight, but I am ready now. The best man will win, and I am confident it will be me.”

Josue Vargas

“I call him {Murphy} Canelo because he looks just like him, so I know Canelo. We used to train in the same gym. We sparred two, three times, so I know what he’ll bring to the table. I saw his last few bouts, and he hasn’t gotten better. I know I’ve gotten better sparring the likes of Jose Ramirez, Vergil Ortiz and Mikey Garcia. I sparred those guys after I sparred ‘Canelo,’ so I know what I’ll bring and what he’ll bring. I’m not expecting anything different.”
 
“He can take a shot and he’s tough. I can’t sleep on him. I’m going to take it home because I have to show out in front of my friends and family.”

“I know he’s confident, but I want to know why. I want to know where that’s coming from because when I sparred him his trainer took him out in the fourth round due to a body shot.”

Edgar Berlanga

“I didn’t have a ton of people the first time I fought at the Garden, but for some reason, my name is hot and I’m fighting back home ready to put on a show.”

“Now that I’m maturing and getting older, I have to understand that I need to go some rounds. All my fans have seen is the power, but they haven’t seen the full me, the movement, skills, jab. I can fight like Pernell Whitaker if I have to. This is a step-up fight. If I can’t get the guy out of there, then I’m ready to go some rounds.”

For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.
 
Use the hashtags #CrawfordMachine, #CommeyLopez and #ConlanNikitin to join the conversation on social media.
 

LAS VEGAS (December 10, 2019) – Two-division world champion Badou Jack showed off his skills and previewed his upcoming title fight at a Las Vegas media workout Tuesday as he prepares to take on WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal Saturday, December 28 live on SHOWTIME from the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by boxing’s hottest attraction Gervonta “Tank” Davis as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, GTD Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale and available through Ticketmaster.com.

Jack hit the ring and talked to media at Mayweather Boxing Club as he prepares to face Pascal in a bid to become a three-time champion and capture his second title at light heavyweight. Here is what the workout participants had to say Tuesday:

BADOU JACK

“Mentally I’m better than I’ve ever been. I’m hungrier and I feel like I did the first time I fought for the title. I’m always hungry, but I’m really excited for this fight.

“Sometimes losses make you better. My first loss was an accident, and I became better because of it. The loss to Marcus Browne, it wasn’t the fairest loss, but it’s made me even hungrier. I’m going to go out there and win the fight no matter what.

“People have written Pascal off a couple of times and he always came back. He’s a throwback fighter who definitely knows how to fight. He brings it every time. He’s got more mileage than me, but I can’t overlook a guy like him.

“I’m ready to do whatever it takes to win the fight. I feel 100% physically. The cut was cleared in March, and we’re way past that. I’ve been ready physically and this camp has proved that to me and my whole team.

“Pascal and I sparred before but it was a long time ago and sparring is way different than a real fight. I’ve fought bigger punchers, but you have to respect the power of anyone in the ring. Anything can happen. You can get caught by someone who’s not a puncher.

“I know that I have a lot left to give this sport. I feel like I’m young for my age. The break between fights and bouncing back from a loss have made me more motivated than ever. I’m ready to go in and give the best performance of my career.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Badou has a glow about him, just like the old Badou. He looks super-fast in the ring and everything is what we would want to see.

“Badou Jack has shown time and time again that he wants to fight the best and he’s not going to back down no matter what the challenge is. We’ve never had to think twice about it and one setback wasn’t going to stop him from having that mentality.

“Badou is a fighter who always uses his platform to make the world better for those less fortunate. He’s done wonderful things and is really so much more than a champion boxer. It’s an honor to work with him and always a pleasure to watch him perform.”

#

ABOUT DAVIS VS. GAMBOA
Davis vs. Gamboa will see two-time super featherweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Mayweather Promotions’ top rising star and boxing’s hottest attraction, as he takes on former unified world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa for the WBA Lightweight Title live on SHOWTIME Saturday, December 28 at the award-winning State Farm Arena in Atlanta in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The special holiday SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Jean Pascal battling two-division champion Badou Jack in the co-main event.

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

NEW YORK (December 10, 2019)- Split-T Management’s welterweight Janelson Figueroa Bocachica remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over veteran Luis Eduardo Florez in a bout that took place on Saturday night at The Performance Arts Center in Dearborn. Michigan.

Bocachica got the better of the action in a fight where the fighters stood toe to toe on several occasions, with the 21 year-old Bocachica landing the sharper and harder punches.

Bocachica of Detroit won by scores of 80-72 on all scorecards, which raised his perfect mark to 15-0.

Bocachica is promoted by King’s Promotions

Nutley, NJ (December 10, 2019)- This past Saturday night, Ronald Ellis moved down in weight successfully and won a 10-round majority decision over Immanuwel Aleem in a bout that took place at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, and was streamed live on SHOWTIME Sports®

Ellis boxed well behind a nice jab, and landed the sharper punches throughout the fight. Ellis won on two judges scorecards 98-92, 97-93, while a 3rd judge somehow saw that fight even at 95-95.

With the win, the native of Lynn, Massachusetts raises his mark to 17-1-2.

“It was a good performance for Ronald. The fight was supposed to be his introduction to the middleweight division, but Aleem could not make the weight, and asked for a heavier weight. Ronald was on the card with Chris Eubank Jr. and Jermall Charlo, and we would love to fight either of them. Ronald is not out of the super middleweight business either. If a fight with one of the champions or top contenders becomes available, we would gladly take those opportunities,” said Vito Mielnicki, the promoter of Ellis, and CEO of GH3 Promotions.

Trenton, NJ (December 10, 2019) – On Saturday night, January 25th, Silver Bow will stage the Inaugural ChampBox Series event at the CURE Insurance Arena in Trenton, New Jersey.

The ChampBox series is designed to showcase the top professional and amateur boxers in the New Jersey area.

“It’s an honor to start the ChampBox series in my home state of New Jersey,” said Bill Halkias of Silver Bow. “We have an abundance of Professional and Amateur fighters for the series, and it will provide opportunities for many fighters.”

“Partnering up with the CURE Insurance Arena is important, as it’s a 1st class facility, and located in the capital city of Trenton.”

Headlining the event will be undefeated cruiserweight Mike Hilton.

Hilton of Trenton is a former National Golden Gloves champion, who currently has a record of 9-0 with seven knockouts.

The 33 year-old Hilton will be making the 3rd appearance in his hometown, and he is coming off a 3rd round technical decision over Hector Perez on March 10, 2018 in Atlantic City.

Appearing on the card will be Ian Green (12-2, 9 KOs) of Paterson, New Jersey.

Green has wins over undefeated foes Khiary Gray (13-0) and Andy Mejias (15-0). Green will be looking to get back in the win column following dropping a fight to Kemahl Russell on September 9, 2017 in Queens, New York.

Also in action will be Glennwood Lattimer (1-0) of Philandelphia in a junior middleweight fight.

Highlighting the amateur portion of the card will be locals, Zaire Gross, Kevin Alexander and Jabbar Abercrombie.

Tickets for this special evening of boxing are $25, $39, $59, $79 and the 1st two rows are $99. Tickets can be purchased at the following link:

CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS:

The event is being sponsored by Flash Tech IT and CyberSecuirty since 1992. www.flashtech.com

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Springfield, Mass (December 10, 2019) — Having already announced a fierce New England focusd triple-header showcasing, Hartford’s RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (15-0 12KO’s), E. Hartfrod’s “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (12-0 4KO’S) and Danbury’s OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (9-1 3KO’s), Star Boxing is pleased to showcase the talents of two local Springfield fan favorites, DERRICK WHITLEY II and ANGEL VAZQUEZ, in separate bouts.

Tickets to “New England Explosion,” presented by JOE DEGUARDIA’S STAR BOXING, powered by MGM Springfield, from Mass MutualCenter, start at $40.00 (excludes facility fees and convenience charges) and are on sale now, HERE, and at the MassMutual Center Box Office. “New England Explosion” will air live in a first for New England Sports Network (NESN), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. As the home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox, NESN is available nationally on a sports subscription basis.

Whitley, who meets JERMAINE CORLEY (3-8, 1 KO) in a 6-round bout, is a direct descendant of Springfield boxing royalty. His father/head trainer is former Mass State champion Derrick Whitley, and his uncle/assistant trainer, Darin Whitley, also was a popular regional pro boxer. The Whitley brothers are twins.

“It’s exciting,” Derrick II spoke about fighting at home in Springfield. “I started out in boxing off my father’s name. I have a lot to live up to, but I’m a little different than him. I have my own fanbase, which is pretty cool, and they’re there win or lose. There hasn’t been a lot of boxing here since the Hippodrome closed, but MGM Grand has brought boxing back to Springfield. This will be my third fight here.

“I’m popular in my city because I played football here in high school. It’s been a thrill for me to still have my family and fans watching me. They’ve always supported me. It’s been pretty crazy for this fight.”

Vazquez (0-1), a native of Puerto Rico, faces LEANDRO SILVA (1-3) in a 4-round match.

“I feel great, like Muhammad Ali,” an excited Vazquez said about fighting at home. “This is awesome. Springfield is my town! I’m proud. I grew up in Puerto Rico, but I’ve lived here seven years. I want to put on a great show for my hometown.”

Also fighting on the undercard in a 6-round bout is Hartford welterweight JEFFREY TORRES (5-0, 4 KOs) vs. Brockton, MA veteran ANTONIO FERNANDEZ (3-39-4, 3 KOs).

“New England Explosion” is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, and will take place at MassMutual Center, powered by MGM Springfield.

INFO: East Hartford super lightweight “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (12-0, 4 KOs) returns home in an 8-round tilt against ANGEL “AZTEC WARRIOR” HERNANDEZ (17-14-2, 11 KO’s), Hartford cruiserweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (15-0, 12 KO’s) faces Virginia cruiserweight “MIGHTY” JOE JONES (11-1, 8 KOs), while Danbury lightweight OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (9-1, 3 KO’s) meets Dublin, Ireland’s undefeated “SLICK” VICTOR RABEI (8-0, 2 KO’s). On the undercard will be local Springfield, Mass favorites, DERRICK “BAD BOY” WHITLEY II (6-1-1) the son of Springfield’s, Derrick Whitley Sr., former USA Massachusetts State Super Middleweight Champion, as well as ANGEL VASQUEZ (0-1).

DEC. 13 “NEW ENGLAND EXPLOSION” TICKETS
Ticket prices start at $40.00 (excludes facility fees and convenience charges) and are available for purchase at HERE or at the MassMutual Center Box Office.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET

WATCH LIVE ON NESN
NESN Star Boxing Night’s, “New England Explosion” sponsored by MGM Springfield will air live for the first on New England Sports Network (NESN), starting at 9PM ET / 6PM PT. The home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox, NESN is available nationally on a sports subscription basis. NESN is the only way to watch Star Boxing’s “New England Explosion” in the New England area (except Fairfield County, CT.)

WATCH ON FITE.TV PPV
For those outside of the NESN regional footprint, you can catch the action via FITE.TV. FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on thewww.FITE.TVwebsite, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will stream the “New England Explosion,” and be available for just $14.99. Pre-order “New England Explosion” HERE.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (Dec. 9, 2019) — Steven “So Cold” Nelson and Cem “Champ” Kilic were set to tangle Saturday evening in a battle of unbeaten super middleweights on Terence Crawford’s undercard, but an unexpected injury changed their plans.

Nelson and Kilic will now fight in a 10-rounder for the vacant NABO title Saturday, Jan. 11 as the co-feature to the Jesse Hart-Joe Smith Jr. main event at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena (ESPN & streaming on the ESPN App (Spanish), 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT). The co-feature slot became available after Rob “Bravo” Brant, who was set to fight Habib “Wild Hurricane” Ahmed, suffered a torn biceps.

“This is one of those moments. When this opportunity presented itself, I knew I had to take it,” Nelson said. “I compare this to when Terence Crawford got the late call to fight Breidis Prescott on HBO. He took advantage of that opportunity, and I am going to take advantage of the ESPN spotlight.”

“While I’m disappointed not to fight on the Dec. 14 card, I am beyond excited to showcase my talent to an even bigger audience just four weeks later on ESPN,” Kilic said. “I have been working hard in Florida with Buddy McGirt so all sports fans can see the best Cem Kilic on fight night!”

Nelson (15-0, 12 KOs), from Omaha, Neb., is part of one of boxing’s great stables, the Brian “BoMac” McIntyre-trained crew that also includes Crawford and junior lightweight world champion Jamel Herring.A 2012 U.S. Olympic team alternate and a U.S. Army veteran, Nelson took up the sport in 2010. He won the first 14 bouts of his career as a light heavyweight before moving down to super middleweight. In his super middleweight debut, Sept. 1 in Omaha, Nelson blew away Derrick Findley in four rounds. Kilic (14-0, 9 KOs) is a Los Angeles-based native of Germany who has won four of his last five by stoppage, most recently stopping Martez McGregor June 15 on the Tyson Fury-Tom Schwarz undercard.

The winner of this battle of world-ranked 168-pounders will position himself for a shot at one of the world titles. Nelson and Kilic have to wait four more weeks for the fight of their lives.

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

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Star Boxing, tickets priced at $100, $60, $40 and $25 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.ticketmaster.com and www.hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.  

NEW YORK (December 7, 2019)- Diego Pacheco destroyed Selemani Said in the 1st round of their scheduled four-round super middleweight bout.

Pacheco, who is managed by Split-T Management, dropped Saidi with a vicious combination that consisted of a right to the body, uppercut and a deviating left that sent Saidi down for several minutes.

The fight was halted after just 98 seconds.

Pacheco, 167.1 lbs of South Central Los Angeles is 8-0 with seven knockouts. Saidi, 166.8 lbs of Tanzania is 20-16-5.

With the win, Pacheco won his eighth bout in just under 12-months and with his last several knockouts being “Highlight-Reel” stoppages, the 18 year-old Pacheco will enter 2020 as one of the top super middleweight prospects in the world.

Pacheco is promoted by Matchroom Boxing.

BOSTON (December 9, 2019) — Unlike most boxing prospects, lightweight prospect OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (9-1, 3 KOs) is always willing to take risks, even fighting undefeated opponents, instead of simply padding his record.

Bordoy, fighting out of Danbury, CT, meets undefeated Irish sensation, “SLICK” VICTOR RABEI (8-0, 2 KOs) on December 13 in an 8-round bout on a stacked “New England Explosion” card, at MassMutual Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.

“New England Explosion,” presented by JOE DEGUARDIA’S STAR BOXING, and sponsored by MGM Springfield, will air live from Mass MutualCenter in a first for New England Sports Network (NESN), starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. As the home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox, NESN is available nationally on a sports subscription basis.

“I fought an undefeated fighter before and it was cool to give him (3-0 Terell Bostic) his first loss,” the 24-year-old Bordoy said. “An undefeated record could be padded. Rabei is a good fighter and I expect a very good fight. He’s a good fighter who is good defensively. He’ll want to be fighting on the outside because he’s 5′ 9″ and I’m 5′ 5”. But he’s coming down in weight and we’re fighting at my natural fighting weight. I’ve fought taller opponents before. It looks like he has a little power. We’re both stepping up.

“I’m excited to be fighting on live television for the first time. I’m a kid who came from nothing and now I’m fighting on TV. I’ve fought in pre-recorded fights before, but this will be my first on live television. It makes everything even more exciting. I’m glad to be fighting on this NESN platform.”

Bordoy has won two in a row since losing a disputed 6-round split decision last April to Romain Tomas (7-2).

“I didn’t get into boxing to go undefeated,” remarked Bordoy, who will be fighting in his first scheduled 8-rounder. “Only a few fighters have ever retired undefeated. A loss doesn’t bother most greats. It’s part of my developmental stage. I’d rather suffer a loss early in my career than later. I certainly don’t feel like a defeated fighter going into this fight. I learned a lot about myself and what to do better from that loss.”

Cutting weight for this fight, Bordoy didn’t really enjoy Thanksgiving. In fact, he ate alone because it was too difficult dieting and eating with others. So, he had brown rice and baked chicken.

“Yeah,” he added. “I didn’t get to eat much. I’m going to splurge this fight. And I’ll get an early Christmas present when my hand is raised at the end of the fight.”
BORDOY OPEN WORKOUT DEC. 10 IN DANBURY, CT.
Bordoy will hold an open workout Tuesday, Dec. 10, between 6:30-8:30 p.m. ET at Danbury Champs Gym in Danbury, CT to promote his Dec. 13thfight. Dambury Champs Gym is located at 128 E. Liberty St., Danbury, CT. The public is welcome.
DEC 13 “NEW ENGLAND EXPLOSION” TICKETS
Ticket prices start at $40.00 (excludes facility fees and convenience charges) and are available for purchase at HERE or at the MassMutual Center Box Office.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7:30 p.m. ET

WATCH LIVE ON NESN
NESN Star Boxing Night’s, “New England Explosion” sponsored by MGM Springfield will air live for the first on New England Sports Network (NESN), starting at 9PM ET / 6PM PT. The home of the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox, NESN is available nationally on a sports subscription basis. NESN is the only way to watch Star Boxing’s “New England Explosion” in the New England area (except Fairfield County, CT.)

WATCH ON FITE.TV PPV
For those outside of the NESN regional footprint, you can catch the action via FITE.TV. FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on thewww.FITE.TVwebsite, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will stream the “New England Explosion,” and be available for just $14.99. Check availability in your area by going to the FITE.TV website.

INFO: East Hartford super lightweight “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (12-0, 4 KOs) returns home in an 8-round tilt against ANGEL “AZTEC WARRIOR” HERNANDEZ (17-14-2, 11 KOs), Hartford cruiserweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (15-0, 12 Kos) faces Virginia cruiserweight “MIGHTY” JOE JONES (11-1, 8 KOs), while Danbury lightweight OMAR “THE BEAST” BORDOY (9-1, 3 KOs) meets Dublin, Ireland’s undefeated “SLICK” VICTOR RABEI (8-0, 2 KOs). On the undercard will be local Springfield, Mass favorites, DERRICK “BAD BOY” WHITLEY II (6-1-1) the son of Springfield’s, Derrick Whitley Sr., former USA Massachusetts State Super Middleweight Champion, as well as ANGEL VASQUEZ (0-1).

Harrisburg, PA (December 9, 2019)–Fresh off her win on November 2nd, lightweight Alycia Baumgardner will be right back in action on THIS SATURDAY NIGHT, December 14th when she headlines against former world title challenger Christina del valle Pacheco an eight-bout card at the Zembo Shrine in Harrisburg, PA.

The card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Baumgardner, 25 years old of Fremont, Ohio, has a record of 8-1 with five knockouts, has been a professional for over two years, and is coming off a six-round unanimous decision over Annette Pabello on November 2nd in Tampa, Florida.

Pacheco of Cordoba, Argentina has a record of 11-12-2 with two knockouts.

The 39 year-old Pacheco is a 13 year-professional who in her last bout lost to Yazmin Rivas for the WBA Bantamweight title on November 10, 2018 in Tijuana, Mexico.

New King’s Promotions signee Carlos Vidal will also be in action in an eight-round lightweight bout against 62-fight veteran Jonathan Perez

Vidal of North Las Vegas, Nevada has a record of 15-0 with 14 knockouts. The 29 year-old is a three-year professional, and who owns a knockout win over Antonio Castro (5-1). Vidal is coming off a 2nd round stoppage of 54-fight veteran Jesus Ricardo Armenta on May 25th.

Perez of Barranquilla, Colombia has a record of 38-24 with 30 knockouts.

The 32 year-old is a 14 year-veteran who has wins over Gustavo Sandoval (7-1-1), Hugo Berrio (15-2) and former world title challenger Gamalier Rodriguez (25-3-3).

Perez is coming off a Dravontay Speed Rawls on May 11th in Fairfax, Virginia.

Undefeated heavyweight Michael Coffie (7-0, 5 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York will be in action against crafty Grover Young (13-28-3, 9 KOs) of Memphis, TN in a six-round bout

In four-round bouts:

Luis Morales (2-0) of Harrisburg, PA will take on Ayron Palmer (0-2) of Tallahassee, FL in a lightweight fight.

Roudly Lolo of Harrisburg, PA will make his pro debut against Mike Diorio (0-2) of Cortland, NY in a middleweight contest.

Brent Oren (2-2) of Harrisburg, PA takes Dewayne Williams (1-2, )) of Philadelphia in a middleweight bout.

Unique Harris (1-3) of Philadelphia will fight Britain Hart (3-3-2, 2 KOs) of Bedford, VA in a lightweight fight.

James Bernadin (2-0-1, 1 KO) of Lancaster, PA squares off with pro debuting Nick Baez of Bronx, NY in a lightweight bout.

Tickets for this outstanding evening are $25, $50 and $400 for VIP tables and can be purchased by CLICKING HERE

The Zembo-Shine Auditorium is located at 2801 North 3rd Street, #2 in Harrisburg.

ONTARIO, Calif. (December 9, 2019) – Top middleweight contender Hugo “The Boss” Centeno Jr. will battle Mexico’s Juan Macías Montiel in a 10-round clash that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes Saturday, December 21 from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

The FS1 telecast begins at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and will feature 2016 U.S. Olympian Karlos Balderas taking on Mexico’s René Téllez Giron in an eight-round lightweight duel and unbeaten prospect Raymond Guajardo battling New Orleans-native Donnis Reed in a super welterweight bout.

FS1 PBC Fight Night precedes the FOX PBC Fight Night broadcast headlined by the highly anticipated rematch between WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony Harrison and former champion Jermell Charlo with coverage beginning on FOX and FOX Deportes at 8 p.m./5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at the Toyota Arena box office and Ticketmaster.com.

Fighting out of his hometown of Oxnard, California, Centeno (27-3, 14 KOs) will look to bounce back after he lost a close decision to Willie Monroe Jr. on FS1 in June. The 28-year-old had won three out of four fights heading into the Monroe fight, including a highlight-reel knockout of then unbeaten Immanuwel Aleem on FS1 in August 2017. He will step into the ring for the third time in 2019 on December 21, having also defeated Oscar Cortes in February.

The 25-year-old Montiel (21-4-1, 21 KOs) has fought professionally since 2009 and most recently stopped longtime contender Marcos Reyes in February by fourth-round TKO. Representing Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Montiel will make his U.S. debut on December 21, in a career that has seen him knockout then unbeaten Ivan Montero and drop a 2017 contest to eventual world champion Jaime Munguia.

One of the most highly regarded prospects from the 2016 U.S. Olympic team, Balderas (9-0, 8 KOs) returns for an eight-round lightweight affair to close out 2019. The 23-year-old from Santa Maria, California has won his last five fights by stoppage, including three in 2019. His most recent outing saw him stop Robert Frankel in July. He will be opposed by the 20-year-old Giron (13-1, 7 KOs), who fights out of Queretaro, Mexico and is looking to rebound from a decision loss to unbeaten Michel Rivera in June.

Guajardo (4-0, 3 KOs) turned pro one week after his 19th birthday this March and kicked off his career with a second-round knockout of Leonardo Mendez in his hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Guajardo will enter the ring on December 21 in a four or six-round contest seeking his fifth win of 2019. He most recently defeated Brian Urday by first-round knockout in October and will be opposed by the 34-year-old Reed (3-4, 2 KOs) as he steps into the ring for his third fight of 2019.

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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, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

Philadelphia, PA (December 9, 2019)– World Ranked welterweight Mykal Fox won a eight-round unanimous decision over Johnny Arellano in the main event of a seven bout show at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The card was promoted by King’s Promotions.

Fox of Forestville, Maryland, controlled the action by keeping his jab in the face of Arellano. Arellano tried to get inside, but it was the experience of the fighter known as “The Professor” that was able to thwart the offense of Arellano.

In round five, Fox was able to score a knockdown on shot that landed while both fighters were on the inside.

The number-14 ranked welterweight in the world by the IBF and number-15 by the WBA, Fox won by scores of 80-71 twice and 78-73 to run his winning streak to three in a row and raise his overall mark to 22-1. Arellano of Conroe, Texas is 10-2.

“Johnny is tough. He was awkward. He has some height on him presented some challenges, but we made the adjustments like we are supposed to,” said the 6’4″ Fox. “In 2020, we are looking for good fights, and just keep moving forward. That’s the biggest thing. We are going to go back to the gym, and work on the things we need to. I am going to work on what we did bad, and improve on what we did good, and look for a big 2020. We are going to keep working.”

Kalvin Henderson and Genc Pllana battled to an eight-round majority draw in a super middleweight bout.

Pllana took a card 79-73, while two cards read even at 76-76.

Henderson of Fayettville, AR is 12-0-1. Pllana of Hagerstown, MD is 7-1-2.

WBA number-10 ranked super bantamweight Marcus Bates won an eight-round unanimous decision over Francisco Pedroza.

In round eight, Bates dropped Pedroza with a left hook to the head.

Bates of Washington, DC won by scores of 80-71 twice and 78-73 and is 11-1-1. Pedroza is 13-10-2.

“It was a good performance. I could have done better. I have to go back to the gym and talk with my team, put the work in and get better,” said Bates.

“Whatever my team and promoter want me to do next is what I am going to do.”

Tyrome Jones stopped previously undefeated Shamar Fulton in round two of a scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

Jones dropped Fulton in round two with a hard right hook. Fulton was hurt, and Jones scored some vicious follow up shots and the but was stopped at 2:10.

Jones of South Bend, IN is 5-6-1- with two knockouts. Fulton of Philadelphia is 4-1-1.

Shinard Bunch won a six-round unanimous decision over Vicente Morales in a welterweight bout.

Bunch of Trenton, , NJ won by scores of 60-54, 59-55 and 58-56 and is now 5-1. Morales is 3-5-2.

Martino Jules won an six-round unanimous decision over Eric Manriquez in a junior lightweight bout.

In round three, Jules dropped Manriquez with a hard right hook. Jules scored another knock down in round five, and cruised home to the victory by scores of 59-53 and 60-52 twice.

Jules of Allentown, PA is 8-0. Manriquez of Houston is 8-10-1.

Devar Ferhadi stopped Vincent Baccus in round five of a scheduled six-round bouts of undefeated super middleweights.

Ferhadi rocked Baccus in the 3rd with a left hook to the head. In round five, Ferhadi dropped Baccus with a hard 1-2 combination. Ferhadi continued to beat down Baccus until the bout was called off at 1:45.

Ferhadi, who just granulated from Medical school is from Frederick, MD via Iraq is now 8-0 with seven knockouts. Baccus of Oklahoma is 4-1-1.

“We had to take our time in there, it was out 1st six-round fight. I had to listen to my corner and patiently walk him down, get the jab going, figure out what punches he was throwing, and try to get the caliber of his power, and respect it accordingly,” said Ferhadi. “The Philly fans are great. Hopefully I will be back soon.”

Ferhadi just finished Medical School.

KING’S PROMOTIONS WILL BE BACK THIS SATURDAY NIGHT AT THE ZEMBO SHRINE IN HARRISBURG, PA WITH A BIG NIGHT OF ACTION FEATURING FEMALE SENSATION ALYCIA BAUMGARDNER