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.”

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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

MARCEL BRAITHWAITE says he was “done” with boxing earlier this year when he was battling depression.

The Liverpool boxer believes that daily phone calls from trainer Wayne Smith helped him fight the mental illness and return to the gym.

He has overcome his demons and Braithwaite (9-1) challenges hot prospect Sunny Edwards (13-0, 4 KOs) for the vacant British super-flyweight championship at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday December 21, live on BT Sport.

Braithwaite’s problems left him out of action for eight months, but he returned in May and in October beat Craig Derbyshire to claim the English 115lb title.

“I nearly walked away from boxing at the start of the year. I came into 2019 on a loss and my trainer Wayne Smith talked me back into it,” said Braithwaite who bravely opened up about his issues.

“I was done. I wasn’t enjoying my life and at the time I was suffering from depression. It was hard.

“I was just wallowing. I was in a dark place, had low energy, low self-esteem and wasn’t enjoying life.

“I felt being around people was a burden for them so I was avoiding situations.

“Wayne would phone me every day seeing how I was and reminding me what I was capable of.

“He got me to believe again and now I’m English champion and fighting for the British title on BT Sport.

“Wayne was a key factor and when he got me back in the gym he reminded me that a lot of the young kids in there look up to me.

“Things like that brought me out of depression. It was massive for me to get back in the gym and see the young kids watching me train.

“Some of them see me as a role model so I have to handle the responsibility with grace.”

Braithwaite, 25, has seen Edwards get involved with rivals in social media slanging matches in the past, but has kept a low profile.

Edwards tried to hook Braithwaite, by claiming that his rival has unfollowed him on Instagram for not liking his posts.

Braithwaite refused to snap back, but insists that Sunny was fibbing with that claim.

Asked whether he had, Braithwaite quipped: “No, No. Lies run sprints, but truth runs marathons.”

ALSO ON 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

Ticket prices:

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

MASHANTUCKET, CT (December 8, 2019) — Peter Manfredo Jr. wanted a tougher challenge and a few more roads in his unexpected return to the ring Saturday at Foxwoods Resort Casino, but the end result was more of the same for “The Pride of Providence.”

Fighting for the second time in two weeks, Manfredo (42-7-1, 23 KOs) earned a fourth-round stoppage in the main event of CES Boxing’s 2019 season finale on UFC FIGHT PASS® against Milton Nunez (37-23-1) when Nunez’s corner threw in the towel at the 1:39 mark.

Manfredo weathered an early storm against the hard-hitting Nunez. The Columbian veteran with 32 knockouts on his resume actually wobbled Manfredo twice in the opening minute with overhand rights, but Manfredo survived and began to outbox his opponent over the next two rounds while avoiding Nunez’s dangerous right hand.

Midway through the fourth, Manfredo began to pour it on, boxing effectively on angles and peppering Nunez to the body. Having seen enough, Nunez’s corner stopped it with just under two minutes remaining, handing Manfredo his second win of the year since he ended a three-year layoff with a first-round knockout win over Melvin Russell on November 23.

In the co-main event, super featherweight Irvin Gonzalez (13-2, 10 KOs) of Worcester, MA, made quick work of the overmatched Omar Etheridge (3-3-1) of Greensboro, NC, dropping Etheridge three times in the opening round en route to a first-round knockout win at the 3:00 mark.

Featherweights Nathan Martinez (6-1) of New Britain, CT, and Yeuri Andujar (5-2) of Reading, PA, stole the show in the special attraction with Andujar earning a 58-56, 58-56, 59-55 unanimous decision win, handing the 20-year-old Martinez the first loss of his career.

It was all action from the opening bell as the two traded shots for six hard rounds. Martinez got off to a strong start, but Andujar rallied in the middle rounds and simply outworked his opponent by throwing more combinations despite Martinez landing more effectively at times. Martinez rallied late, but could not close the gap on the cards. The win was Andujar’s second in his last three fights.

Female lightweights Marcia Agripino (4-2-1) of New London, CT, and Michelle Cook (1-2-2) of Massena, NY, staged another epic battle in their rematch from 2013, this time with Agripino earning the win after the two fought to a draw six years ago. Cook, who hadn’t fought in five years prior to Saturday, got off to a slow start before fighting back in the later rounds, but Agripino remained the aggressor to earn the win on the scorecards.

In preliminary action, New Haven, CT, super lightweight Carlos Ojeda-Perez (1-0) earned the win in his pro debut, defeating fellow debut DelQuan Dennis (0-1) of Columbia, SC, but unanimous decision, 40-36, on all three scorecards. Welterweight Joe Goss (2-0) of Bridgeport, CT, fought for the first time since 2018 and shook off some early rust to beat Matt Probin (2-4) of Lewiston, ME, by majority decision, 40-36, 38-38, 39-37.

Visit www.cesboxing.com, www.twitter.com/cesboxing or www.facebook.com/cesboxing for more information, and follow CES Boxing on Instagram at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing promoted its first event in 1992 headlined by future Champion Sucra Ray Oliveira. Over the years, CES has earned the reputation as the Heart and Soul of boxing with a rich history that includes the development of former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada, plus Vinny Paz and Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series. Through the years, Jimmy Burchfield Sr has earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, and 2011 inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

NEW YORK (December 7, 2019)- TONIGHT, undefeated welterweight prospect Janelson Figueroa Bocachica will be back in action when he takes on Luis Eduardo Florez in a eight-round bout at the Performance Arts Center in Dearborn, Michigan.

Bocachica is managed by Split-T Management.

Bocachica, 21 years-old of Detroit has a record of 14-0 with 10 knockouts, and will be making his 3rd start of 2019.

Bocachica has a 1st round stoppage over Pablo Sanchez (10-2) and in his last outing, he took out 42 fight-veteran Gabor Gorbics on three rounds on May 3rd in Bethlehem, PA.

Florez has faced nine-undefeated fighters including word champions Miguel Berchelt, Jamel Herring and Anthony Peterson.

Florez is coming off a loss to Split-T Management’s Brian Ceballo on August 23rd in Boston.

Bocachica is Promoted by King’s Promotions

Mashantucket, CT (December 6, 2019) – Listed below are weights for all the participants on tomorrow’s special matinee pro-am boxing event promoted by CES Boxing at Foxwoods Resort Casino’s historic Fox Theater.

The event streams live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS® beginning at 2 p.m. ET.

Doors open at 11 a.m. ET. The event includes amateur bouts beginning at noon followed by the main card at 2 live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®. Tickets are available online at www.foxwoods.com or at the Fox Theater Box Office. The UFC FIGHT PASS stream features CES Boxing publicist and matchmaker Michael Parente handling play-by-play with “Sucra” Ray Oliveira providing color commentary. UFC FIGHT PASS subscriptions are available at www.ufcfightpass.com.

FINAL WEIGHTS

Peter Manfredo Jr.

41-7, 22 KOs

Providence, RI

173

Milton Nunez

37-22-1, 32 KOs

Miami, FL

176

Irvin Gonzalez

12-2, 9 KOs

Worcester, MA

129

Omar Etheridge

3-2-1, 3 KOs

Greensboro, NC

132

Nathan Martinez

6-0, 2 KOs

New Britain, CT

121

Yeuri Andujar

4-2, 3 KOs

Reading, PA

121

Marcia Agripino

3-2-1

New London, CT

127

Michelle Cook

1-1-2

Massena, NY

130

Joseph Goss

1-0

Bridgeport, CT

144

Matt Probin

2-3

Lewiston, ME

148

Carlos Ojeda-Perez

Pro debut

New Haven, CT

140

DelQuan Dennis

Pro debut

Columbia, SC

140

Visit www.cesboxing.com, www.twitter.com/cesboxing or www.facebook.com/cesboxing for more information, and follow CES Boxing on Instagram at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing promoted its first event in 1992 headlined by future Champion Sucra Ray Oliveira. Over the years, CES has earned the reputation as the Heart and Soul of boxing with a rich history that includes the development of former U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada, plus Vinny Paz and Rhode Island legends Gary Balletto and Peter Manfredo Jr., both of whom rose to fame on The Contender reality television series. Through the years, Jimmy Burchfield Sr has earned several noteworthy awards, among them the NABF Promoter of the Year, and 2011 inductee into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Ch

EKATERINBURG, Russia (December 6, 2019) — The official weigh in was held today for tomorrow’s inaugural RJJ Boxing Russia event, streaming live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT from RCC Martial Arts Academy in Ekaterinburg, Russia.

Official weights below:

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT — CRUISERWEIGHTS (10)
Alexei Egorov (9-0, 7 KOs), Russia 200 lbs.
Serhiy Radchenko (7-4, 2 KOs), Ukraine 200 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – VACANT WBA ASIA (10) SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (10)
Muhammad Shekhov (6-0, 3 KOs), Russia 121 lbs.
Aron Juarez (15-6-3, 4 KOs), Nicaragua 120 lbs.

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS (10)
Ruslan Kamilov (7-0-1, 3 KOs) 129 lbs,
Evgeny Smirnov (13-0-3, 3 Kos), Russia 130 lbs.

SUPER FEATHERWEIGHTS (8)
Erzhan Turgumbekov (7-0-1, 2 KOs), Russia 132 lbs.
Evgeny Smelov (5-8-1, 4 KOs), Russia 132 lbs.

FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)
Ivan Chirkov (2-0, 0 KOs), Russia 127lbs.
Stanislav Predybailo (2-3, 1 KO), Russia 127 lbs.

SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (8)
Arstan Umbitkulov (3-1, 1 KO), Russia 141 lbs.
Eugenii Vazem (8-9, 3 KOs), Russia 143 lbs.

MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
Ivan Nikonov (2-0, 0 KOs), Russia 160 lbs.
Eldor Abdukodirov (2-0, 0 KOs), Russia 160 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)
Sergey Fantarov (0-0-1), Russia 135 lbs.
Sherzodzhan Abdurazzokov (pro debut), Russia 135 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS (4)
Javorhirbek Karimov (4-0, 2 KOs), Russia 131 lbs.
Alexander Saltykov (12-57-3, 7 KOs), Russia 133 lbs.

INFORMATION:

Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre
Facebook: /KeithVeltre, /UFCFightPass

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

Based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, NV, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable: former world champion bantamweight Joseph Agbeko, world junior bantamweight title challenger Aston Palicte, junior middleweights John Vera and Daniel Rosario Cruz, junior lightweight Randy Moreno, bantamweights Max Ornelas and Tony Lopez, cruiserweight Adrian Taylor and middleweight Shady Gamhour, featherweight Edward Vazquez, junior welterweight Kendo Castaneda and heavyweight Alexander Flores.

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS®: UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visitwww.ufcfightpass.com.

All times are local

17:00 DOORS 
18:30 FIRST BELL

4 x 3 mins Lightweight contest
MAJID AL NAQBI 9st 7lbs v ILIA BERUASHVILI 8st 12lbs
(UAE)                                       (Georgia)

19:00 WORLD FEED ON AIR

8 x 3 mins WBC Middle East Lightweight Title 
ZUHAYR AL QAHTANI 9st 8lbs v OMAR DUSARY 9st 3lbs
(Saudi Arabia)                                (Kuwait)

20:00 LIVE ON SKY SPORTS BOX OFFICE AND DAZN 

8 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
MAHAMMADRASUL MAJIDOV 16st 7lbs v TOM LITTLE 17st 13lbs
(Azerbaijan)                                                 (England)

12 x 3 mins WBC International Heavyweight Title
FILIP HRGOVIC 17st 3lbs v ERIC MOLINA 17st 10lbs
(Croatia)                                (USA)

10 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
DILLIAN WHYTE 19st 5lbsv MARIUSZ WACH 19st 4lbs
(England)                                (Poland)

12 x 3 mins WBA Heavyweight World Title Eliminator
ALEXANDER POVETKIN 16st 5lbs v MICHAEL HUNTER 16st 2lbs
(Russia)                                                (USA)                               

23:45 MAIN EVENT RING WALKS START

12 x 3 mins WBA, IBF, WBO & IBO Heavyweight WORLD TITLES
ANDY RUIZ JR 20st 3lbs v ANTHONY JOSHUA 16st 13lbs
(Mexico)                               (England)

FLOATS

4 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
HOPEY PRICE 8st 13lbsv SWEDI MOHAMED 8st 13lbs
(England)                            (Tanzania)

4 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest 
DIEGO PACHECO 11st 13lbs v SELEMANI SAIDI 11st 12lbs
(USA)                                           (Tanzania)

NEW YORK (December 6, 2019)- Split-T Management heavyweight Stephan Shaw remained undefeated with a 3rd round stoppage over Gregory Corbin on Thursday night at Terminal 5 in New York City.

Shaw dropped Corbin at the end of the 1st frame with a hard right hand. In round three, Shaw landed a hard combination that caused Corbin to be stunned badly on the ropes, and the bout was stopped at 2:14.

With the win, Shaw, 27 years-old of Saint Louis remains undefeated with a record of 13-0 with 10 knockouts. Shaw took out Corbin faster then former world champion Charles Martin, and will continue to be looked at as one of the top up and coming heavyweights in the world.

Shaw is promoted by DiBella Entertainment.

Emanuel Navarrete 122 lbs vs. Francisco Horta 122 lbs
(Navarrete’s WBO Junior Featherweight world title — 12 Rounds)

   Jerwin Ancajas 115 lbs vs. Miguel Gonzalez 114.8 lbs
(Ancajas’ IBF Junior Bantamweight world title — 12 Rounds)

 Miguel Marriaga 126.5 lbs vs. Alfredo Mejia Vargas 126.7 lbs
(Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

WBC Middleweight World Championship

Jermall Charlo – 159 ¾ lbs.

Dennis Hogan – 158 ½ lbs.

Referee: Charlie Fitch; Judges: Mark Lyson (U.K.), John McKaie (N.Y.), Don Trella (Conn.)

WBA Interim Middleweight World Championship

Chris Eubank Jr. – 159 ½ lbs.

Matt Korobov – 159 lbs.

Referee: Steve Willis; Judges: Julie Lederman (N.Y.), Kevin Morgan (N.Y); Tony Paolillo (N.Y.)

IBF Interim Junior Featherweight World Championship

Marlon Tapales – 121 ½ lbs.

Ryosuke Iwasa – 121 ½ lbs.

Referee: Shada Murdaugh; Judges: Frank Lombardi (Conn.), Robin Taylor (N.Y.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

FLASH QUOTES:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I fight for my family. I fight for my life. He’s going to be fighting for his life tomorrow. It’s Lions Only forever!”

DENNIS HOGAN

“It’s all about me and my destiny. This is about me being world champion. The rest is all noise. I showed up. I’m here. I’m ready to go. Who cares what anyone else says? I’m here and I’m ready. Let’s do it!

“To win, I’ll just have to bring something that no one else has brought before, and that’s exactly what I intend to do. We will win.”

CHRIS EUBANK JR.

“I feel great at this weight. I was eating all throughout the night last night, I was sipping on water all day today. This is my natural weight. I’m not fighting a guy that’s 20 pounds heavier than me on the night, now I’m fighting a guy that’s my size and it’s going to show. I’m going to go out there and I’m going to stop this kid.

“I was just letting him know what’s coming. I’m not out here to play. This is my first fight in the U.S., my first fight in New York. It’s a dream come true. I’m going to come out here and make an explosive statement to the middleweight division. And then I’m coming for all the belts after that.”

MATT KOROBOV

“Yes, of course it’s added motivation that it feels like Eubank is looking past me. But the big motivation is that this is a title fight. I’m really happy to be here again and I’m ready to show and prove that I’m ready to be the next WBA Champion.”

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING COUNTDOWN Live Streaming Online – 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT

Super Middleweight Bout – 10-Rounds

Immanuwel Aleem – 163 ¾ lbs.

Ronald Ellis – 163 ½ lbs.

WBC Interim Atomweight Championship

Louisa Hawton – 101 ½ lbs.

Lorraine Villalobos – 100 ½ lbs.

#

ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN

Charlo vs. Hogan will see WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title.

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

With the 2019 WBO convention in the history books, Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions can look back at a successful journey to Tokyo.

Chief amongst their successes was the announcement that Jack Catterall had secured himself a World Championship guarantee.In what should make for a Merry Christmas in the Catterall household, the WBO confirmed that ‘El Gato’ would get a Super-Lightweight title tilt once Jose Ramirez and Viktor Postol duke it out on February 2nd.

The subsequent World Title fight has to be held within 120 days of that date.

A beaming Frank Warren exclaimed: “I am delighted for Jack. He has waited and waited for his shot at the title and is finally getting what he deserves.”

Elsewhere, Queensberry representatives were hard at work trying to secure top rankings for their fighters.

Daniel ‘Dynamite’ Dubois, the hottest prospect in the sport, can hope to see his rating upweighted to a Top 5 spot.

Warren said: “After what Daniel has achieved at such a young age, it only makes sense.”

“I believe this’ll be another positive step on Daniel’s path to the very top of the sport!”

Another of Queensberry’s hard hitting Heavyweights, Joe ‘The Juggernaut’ Joyce, is looking for a Top 10 ranking but that’ll only be possible should he come past Marco Huck on January 11th.

There were significant requests lodged for other Warren fighters, too, with Lerrone Richards seeking a Top 10 spot, Archie Sharp a Top 5 position and Sunny Edwards hoping to land in the Top 3.

Elsewhere, Liam Williams will go to #1 should he beat Alantez Fox on December 21st, Sam Maxwell will hope to enter the Top 10, Hamza Sheeraz has been put forward as a Top 15 talent and Troy Williamson can look forward to being ranked should he win his next fight.

Francis Warren, present throughout the week, praised the WBO for their hospitality during his time in Tokyo and said: “It was a great convention, a wonderful time was had by everyone and I hope we’re successful in all of our requests.”

Promoter Frank Warren finished by saying: “We are thankful to WBO for recognising the continuing good work of Queensberry Promotions in developing the best British talent into world-level superstars.”

And when asked to make a prediction for the 2020 convention he added: “More success, more titles, higher rankings. As a team, we are only heading one way.”

And what way is that?

“Right to the top!”

WBA #8 cruiserweight Constantin Bejenaru says he’s ready to go in and do the job he set out to do when he started boxing.

Bejenaru (14-0, 4 KOs) will challenge WBA cruiserweight champion Arsen Goulamirian (25-0, 17 KOs) on December 28 at the Palais Des Sport in Marseille, France.

“I have been working my entire career for this opportunity,” said Bejenaru, “…the chance to win a world title; the chance to show myself on the biggest stage with the highest stakes.”

A tricky southpaw from Ungheni, in the Republic of Moldova and now living in Brooklyn, Bejenaru was a 10-time Romanian champion, a Bronze Medalist at the European Amateur Boxing Championships in 2006, a Finalist in the European Union Championships in both 2006 and 2007, and a Gold Medalist at World Combat Games in 2010.

After turning professional in 2012, Bejenaru went on to score wide decision victories on ShoBox: The New Generation over previously undefeated Alexey Zubov (10-0, 6 KOs) and Stivens Bujaj (16-0-1, 11 KOs), as well as a decisive points victory over previous world title challenger Thabiso Mchunu (18-3, 11 KOs).

Bejenaru’s career was stalled for nearly two years by what he called “promotional problems,” but he is now realizing his dream fight in just his second under the Salita promotional banner.

“I love the sport of boxing. I am always working to develop my craft, my skills, my fitness and my mind. It is ultimately the mind that makes a champion. The intelligence and creativity that are necessary to succeed in the ring. The mental discipline that allows a boxer to persevere at the hardest moments.

Goulamirian recently defended his belt for the first time by KO 4 over Australia’s Kane Watts on November 15 in Paris.

“Goulamirian has made a mistake taking this fight against a fighter of Constantin Bejenaru’s caliber so quickly after first defense,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “Constantin has incredibly high boxing intelligence and he’s been waiting for this fight his entire life. I look forward to having a new world champion in the Salita Promotions stable.”

Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) is weighed in and ready for his WBC International Heavyweight Title defence against former two-time World Title challenger Eric Molina (27-5, 19 KOs) tomorrow night at the Diriyah Arena in Saudi Arabia.

Hrgovi?, who fights on the undercard of the huge heavyweight rematch between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua, tipped the scales at 109.32 kg, while his opponent Molina came in heavier at 112.49 kg. 

“I feel very good,” said Hrgovi?. “This is my biggest fight so far but I believe 100% that I can beat him if I put in my very best performance. I don’t think it will be easy but I am ready. I can throw a lot of punches, I have fast hands and I can take a punch, if necessary. I know I have the skillset to win.”

Hrgovi? is backing Joshua to regain his belts in Saturday’s main event, and having already earned top ten rankings, the 27-year-old is aware his World Title shot could come soon, but acknowledges first he must get past Molina. 

“I think Joshua wasn’t himself in the first fight,” he says. “You could see he was under pressure. I think the things around him, the money and fame, took a part and he lost focus. Now, I think he has that back and he will win the rematch and show that he is a big champion. If he doesn’t win, I expect him to retire.

“In boxing anything can happen. Andy Ruiz was only one place ahead of me when his chance came and he took advantage of it. I’m already top ten in the rankings so my chance could come very soon, but first I must win on Saturday.”

“Filip looks in great shape,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “He is fully focused and ready to go. This is a great opportunity for him to announce himself on the World stage. We believe he is the best fighter in the heavyweight division and tomorrow night he has the chance to show that.”

Hrgovic-Molina features on the undercard of the unified World Heavyweight Championship fight between Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua which tops a stacked event at the Diriyah Arena, Saudi Arabia. Also on the card are heavyweight clashes between Alexander Povetkin and Michael Hunter, Dillian Whyte against Mariusz Wach, Mahammadrasul Majidov vs Tom Little and more. All the action will be available to watch on DAZN in the US and other territories, RTL in Croatia and Sky Sports in the UK.

New York, NY (12/6/19) – On Thursday night, DiBella Entertainment (DBE) debuted its long-running Broadway Boxing series at Terminal 5, in the Hell’s Kitchen section of Manhattan, NY, presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House, and Gagliardi Insurance. The 112th edition of the series was streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. The night was also a celebration for DiBella Entertainment as it was announced on Wednesday that DBE President Lou DiBella will be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2020.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

In the main event, world ranked super featherweight contender O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster defended his WBC Silver title for the first time, cruising to a 10-round unanimous decision against Puerto Rican Alberto Mercado. Foster, 129.9 lbs., of Houston, TX, spent much of the contest using feints to catch Mercado, 129.4 lbs., of Humacao, Puerto Rico, with quick counters upstairs. A patient Foster picked his shots well and showed good timing to land with maximum impact and efficiency. When backed against the ropes in round six, Foster found the space to land short right hooks to the body to weaken his adversary. Clearly hurt, Mercado’s legs were rubbery in the seventh and Foster wisely continued to dig downstairs. Outboxing Mercado in the closing rounds, Foster seized the victory with tallies of 99-91 twice, and 98-92. Ranked #8 by the WBC, Foster, now 17-2 (10 KOs), is working his way toward a world title shot. Mercado dropped to 16-4-1 (3 KOs).

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

In a thrilling women’s world title fight, “Merciless” Mary McGee, 138.2 lbs., of Gary, IN, captured the vacant IBF women’s junior welterweight crown with a dominant 10th-round stoppage victory against Argentinean Ana Laura Esteche, 138.8 lbs., of Buenos Aires. McGee controlled the action, but the tough-as-nails Esteche, a former unified WBA/IBF/WBO super lightweight world champion, pressed forward throughout, willing to take shots to work her way inside. McGee, who had twice challenged for world titles going in, set the tone in round two, rocking Esteche with an overhand right then landing three left hooks flush. McGee’s left hook proved to be a key weapon for the entire bout, while Esteche’s sturdy chin and tenacity forced her foe to have a high work rate. In round five, a jab-straight right combination wobbled Esteche, who then stumbled to the canvas for what should have been called a knockdown but was ruled a slip. Esteche would fire back counter shots whenever she was backed up, but McGee’s power overruled her offensive offerings. The two combatants traded shots in an extended rally during the seventh to the delight of the cheering crowd. A jab-straight right felled Esteche in the eighth. Landing very sharp punches, McGee was determined to end the contest inside the distance and dished out a furious barrage of shots to start the 10th round. Feeling Esteche had taken enough punishment, the referee halted the bout. McGee became the first to knock out the Argentinean just 30 seconds into the final frame. With the victory, McGee’s record now stands at 26-3 (14 KOs), while Esteche returns home at 14-6-3 (2 KOs).

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

The 6-foot-4, 27-year-old heavyweight prospect Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw, 246.8 lbs., of St. Louis, MO, lived up to his nickname, dropping Gregory “Bad News” Corbin, 274.4 lbs., of Dallas, TX, near the end of round one with a powerful jab-straight right combination to the temple. Following a barrage of shots to open the second, Shaw pumped a stiff jab to set up his power shots. In the third, a straight right downstairs followed by a left hook to the head stunned Corbin and another cracking right hand to the temple had him stumbling into the ropes, prompting the referee to stop the contest at the 2:14 mark of the stanza. Shaw upped his record to 13-0 (10 KOs), while Corbin’s resume dipped to 15-3 (9 KOs). As an amateur, Shaw won the USA Nationals and National PAL tournament in 2013.

Born in Vieques, Puerto Rico, now living in Berlin, NJ, 21-year-old lightweight southpaw prospect Victor “El Turu” Padilla, 136 lbs., outfought a very game Fredric Bowen, 134.8 lbs., of Jackson, TN, over five frames. Padilla began by applying pressure and trading shots with Bowen. Two right hooks to the temple wobbled Bowen near the end of the first. For the majority of the remaining rounds, it was Bowen pressing forward, though to his own detriment, as he ate a lot of leather. Padilla spent this time focusing on his counter attack. In the fourth, Padilla’s hooks to the body appeared to sap Bowen’s energy. Padilla continued to target the midsection in round five then, with under a minute left, he pawed his jab and followed up with a monstrous left hook that sent Bowen to the canvas and his mouthpiece flying. Bowen rose to his feet, but was met with a follow-up barrage until the referee jumped into save him from further punishment. The stoppage came at the 2:47 mark of round five. Padilla is now 7-0 (6 KOs), while Bowen, 6-4-1 (3 KOs), was stopped for the first time in over a decade. Padilla turned professional in December 2016 after a stellar amateur career that included three National championships and a record of 90-7.

(Photo Credit: Ed Diller/DiBella Entertainment)

Fighting for the first time since challenging then-WBO junior welterweight world champion Maurice Hooker in March, Brooklyn, NY’s Mikkel “Slikk Mikk” LesPierre, 141.6 lbs., rebounded with an eight-round unanimous decision victory against Roody Pierre “Rude Boy” Paul, 141.2 lbs., from Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada. Standing toe-to-toe for much of the contest, LesPierre used his shoulder roll defense to evade fellow southpaw Paul’s offense and land well-placed counter shots. Paul did sporadically land a few punches cleanly, but LesPierre’s accurate uppercuts and consistent body attack wore him down. Scorecards read 80-72, and 79-73 twice, all for LesPierre, now 22-1-1 (10 KOs). Paul left the ring at 16-6-2 (6 KOs). Born in Trinidad and Tobago, LesPierre moved to the US at age six and was raised in the East Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY. When he’s not training, LesPierre works full-time as a data specialist at Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he’s been employed for the past 10 years in various positions.

Welterweight southpaw Mathew “Lefty Gunz” Gonzalez, 146 lbs., of Ridgewood, Queens, NY, dominated Rondale Hubbert, 145.4 lbs., of Minneapolis, MN, en route to a four-round unanimous decision win via scorecards of 40-36 twice, and 39-37. Gonzalez is now 10-0 (7 KOs) while Hubbert fell to 13-11-2 (8 KOs).

Matthew Tinker, 174.4 lbs., of Long Island City, NY, by way of Scarborough, Yorkshire, England, improved to 2-0 (2 KOs) with a first-round stoppage victory against southpaw Dylan Brysan, 174 lbs., of Stuart, FL, now 0-2. The stoppage came at the 1:42 mark of the frame.

Nutley, NJ (December 6, 2019)- Saturday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Ronald Ellis will move down in weight to take on hard punching Immanuwel Aleem in a 10-round bout that will be streamed live on SHOWTIME Sports®.

The digital offering begins live at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page.

Ellis of Lynn, Mass., is looking to get back into the win column after suffering his first defeat to DeAndre Ware on Feb. 1 on ShoBox: The New Generation.

The 30 year-old Ellis won his first 14 bouts as he has racked up wins over Jerry Odom (13-2) and Christopher Brooker (11-2).

In Aleem, he will be facing a tough knockout artist who sports a record of 18-1-2 with 11 knockouts.

Aleem has wins over Oscar Riojas (12-2), Jonathan Cepeda (17-1), Ievgen Khytov (14-0) and is coming off a draw against Matt Korobov on May 11 in Fairfax, Virginia.

“This is a great opportunity for Ronald. He was disappointed in his last outing, but he is facing a very credible opponent, and a win will get back his momentum on the way to major fights,” said Vito Milenicki of GH3 Promotions.

Mykal Fox 142.5 – John Arellano 143

Kalvin Henderson 167.6 – Genc Pllana 168.3
Marcus Bates 121.9 – Francisco Pedroza 122,1
Shamar Fulton 134.4 – Tyrome Jones 134.3
Shinard Bunch 147.1 – Vicente Morales 150.6
Martino Jules 129.9 – Eric Manriquez 129.2
Devar Ferhadi 170.2 – Vincent Baccus 167.4

Promoter: King’s Promotions
1st Bell: 7 PM ET
Stream: Facebook Fightnight Live

Photo By Daniel Cork

Tickets are $100, $75 and $50 and can be purchased at www.2300arena.com

PUEBLA, Mexico (Dec. 5, 2019) — When it came time for the traditional post-press conference face-off, Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete smiled. He is excited to be home.

Navarrete (29-1, 25 KOs) will make his fourth WBO junior featherweight world title defense of 2019 Saturday against Francisco “Panchito” Horta (20-3-1, 10 KOs) from the Auditorio GNP Seguros in Puebla, Mexico (ESPN+, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). Navarrete, who hails from San Juan Zitlaltepec, Distrito Federal, Mexico, won the world title from Isaac Dogboe last December and since taken the mantle as boxing’s most active world champion.

In the co-feature, Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas will make the eighth defense of his IBF junior bantamweight world title against Miguel Gonzalez. In the opening bout on the ESPN+ stream, three-time world title challenger Miguel Marriaga will battle Alfredo Mejia Vargas in an eight-rounder at featherweight.

The fighters went face-to-face for the first time Thursday at the final press conference. This is what they had to say.

Emanuel Navarrete
 “We are friends outside the ring, but I am sorry: Horta will pay for all the sacrifices that I have made during training camp. I am going to take it all out this Saturday on ‘Panchito.'”

“I’m just a few days away from completing my first year as world champion. I have to defend this belt that has cost me so much sacrifice, and I will not let anyone take it away from me. I can assure you that I will knock Horta out. That’s what I always try to do every time I get in the ring. He is the challenger, and I’m the champion, but I’m on the hunt. I’m going after Horta!”
Francisco Horta
 “I think that a lot of people talk about Emanuel — and he deserves it — but that doesn’t worry me. I know what I have to do to come out victorious on Saturday.”

“I’m going to do my job, and I’m going to come out with my hand raised. On Sunday, everyone will know who I am.”
Jerwin Ancajas
 “I’m excited to fight here in Mexico. We prepared very hard, and I’m looking forward to a great fight with Gonzalez.”

“I am one of the longest-reigning champions in boxing, and I don’t plan to end my reign yet. I will remain a world champion for a long time.”
Miguel Gonzalez
 “I am prepared to do what I have to do to bring the world title to Chile. If I have to box, I will box. If I have to fight, I will fight. That title goes with me.”
ESPN+, Saturday, 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Francisco Horta, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO junior featherweight world title

Jerwin Ancajas vs. Miguel Gonzalez, 12 rounds, Ancajas’ IBF junior bantamweight world title

Miguel Marriaga vs. Alfredo Mejia Vargas, 8 rounds, featherweight

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.

BROOKLYN (December 5, 2019) – WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo and highly rated contender Dennis Hogan went face to face Thursday at a final press conference to preview their world title showdown taking place this Saturday, December 7 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The final press conference also featured middleweight star Chris Eubank Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov, who battle for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title in the co-main event, and former champions Marlon Tapales and Ryosuke Iwasa, who square off for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title in the televised opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Lions Only Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on-sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets also can be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Grand Ballroom at the Tillary Hotel Brooklyn:

JERMALL CHARLO

“I’m ready and I’m back like never before. I have a tough opponent in Dennis Hogan who’s real confident and he’s bringing Ireland and Australia with him. It’s going to be a show. If he can’t take my shot, I’m going to hit him flush and put him out.

“I believe I have something to deliver that Hogan has never seen before. I’m back to my most explosive days in boxing. I feel great about my training and the way I prepared myself to get this victory. I think it’s going to be tougher than he thinks it is.

“My daughter’s birth has given me even more motivation to knock this guy out and when you come to Brooklyn, you’re coming to my house. There’s nothing he can do and nothing he can say. They all say the same thing until they have to get in there with me.

“If Hogan says he’s more powerful at middleweight, than he’s going to come to fight and stay in the pocket. If he comes to box, I’ll come to fight, and if he comes to fight I’ll be able to box him. Regardless, we’re going to make adjustments in the fight.

“I’m going to come with a vicious attack. If he can hold it, then I’m going to try again later in the night. However the game plan plays out, I’m going to stop him.

“Dennis Hogan, I’ll see you Saturday night. We’re going to give everyone a great night of boxing. I’m going to deliver something explosive and give Hogan a nice little Christmas gift.

“The birth of my daughter has given me a whole new level of motivation, but I’ve always been fighting for my family. It’s just a new blessing and taking the inspiration to another level.

“I still have time to make Knockout of the Year, so hopefully this guy’s power is what he thinks it is and he comes to fight. I’m ready to shut him down.

“When you’re the champ, people are coming for you. When people know you’re great, they want to challenge you. I’m okay with that. I was on that road and now I’m here. In due time, you will see me get all of the biggest fights.

“I love Brooklyn and the energy I get from the crowd. It reminds me of Houston because the food is good and all my fans and family are here. I love Brooklyn.”

DENNIS HOGAN

“I just want to thank my team and Jermall’s team and everyone for making this fight and giving me this opportunity. It’s been a quick four weeks since our first press conference and I’ve gone to a whole new level of what I can accomplish and achieve in my training. I’ve left no stone unturned and I can’t wait to get out there on Saturday night and make my dreams come true

“I’ve always said that when you have a great atmosphere in the arena, it’s like a third guy in the ring. It gets me motivated and it’s always been a big thing for me. I’m going to feel like I’m fighting in front of my home crowd Saturday night.

“Every opponent that I’ve had thinks they’re going to knock me out. It’s not about how hard you throw a punch, it’s about how hard can you land a punch and that’s the difficulty people have with me. That’s one of my best attributes. When I land clean, they tend to realize I mean business and don’t want to come forward. I feel 20% more powerful and he’s going to feel my punches.

“We’re both professional athletes and we’re going to give the fans a great fight. One of us is going to walk away with the WBC belt and I truly believe it will be me.

“You’re going to see something explosive Saturday night. It’s two fighters who truly believe they’re going to win. That makes for brilliant viewing and I’m excited to deliver that to the public.

“I like fighting against taller fighters. It gives me more target and more opportunity to be elusive and show variations. I’m going to use my size to my advantage. You don’t really know what you’re up against with me until you’re actually in there.

“After the last press conference, I expected him to react and crack once I spoke, so I’m not surprised with what he said. It doesn’t matter either way, the talking has nothing to do with what goes on in the ring. He shouldn’t care what I have to say if he truly thinks that he’s going to win the fight. I think that’s a good sign for me, but either way I’m prepared for what happens in the ring.

“I’ve got an extra snap on my punches right now. The power is there, I’m strong, I’m not having to dehydrate as much and that’s going to make all the difference. I’m really excited. We built some extra muscle in certain areas for this fight and I feel a lot stronger because of that. My coach is brilliant at spotting weaknesses in opponents. Charlo doesn’t have many weaknesses but there are things that I can capitalize on with the right game plan. Even Muhammad Ali had these areas, so everybody has them and it’s about capitalizing on them.”

CHRIS EUBANK JR.

“My pro debut here in the U.S. has been a long time coming. It’s been a dream of mine to come out here and perform for you guys. Korobov is talking about decisions, but he will be stopped before the 12th round.

“I’m going to come for all the middleweight belts after this fight. I want all the big names. I’m 30-years-old and in my prime right now. Korobov is a great introductory fight for me in the U.S., then after that, it’s open season.

“There’s going to be a new kingpin in town after Saturday night. I’ve been fighting guys 20 pounds heavier than me. Now you put me in with guys my own weight, it’s going to be devastating.

“I’m at middleweight, so I’m the best in the division. Korobov is a great fighter and I respect him. He’s done a lot in the sport, but this is my time. I’ve worked too hard to come out here and not go through him.

“I’ve had a lot of big fights in the U.K., but now is the perfect time to introduce myself to the American public. Korobov is just standing in my way.

“I’ve been dreaming about this moment since I was a kid and started boxing. To finally be here after all this time is a great feeling. Especially to be able to perform here in New York. So many great champions were born here and fought here. I haven’t come all this way to have a flat performance. I’m going to dominate this fight.

“There were a lot of good opportunities and money to be made at super middleweight so I did what I had to do. Now I’m in a position where there are great middleweight fights in the states so I can be back to my natural weight and takeover.

“I’m not playing around. I’m not here to fight nobodies and coast. I want the big fights and the toughest guys out here so everyone knows I’m the man. Korobov fits that bill as a world class opponent.”

MATT KOROBOV

“I’m so glad to be here in Brooklyn one year after I fought here against Charlo. I’m so prepared and ready to give everyone a good show and leave the fans happy. I’m going to give the fans what they want to see.

“Looking to my future, this is a really important fight. What’s happened in this past is in the past. I’ve prepared for this fight really well and I’ll be ready Saturday night to win this title.

“Everybody works hard in this sport and goes through things inside and outside of the ring. It’s our job to be prepared. Whatever it takes to win this fight, I’m ready. He’s overlooking me and it’s going to be his mistake.

“We’ve done our research on Eubank. I’ve only watched a little but my team knows him very well. We’ve known him for a long time and known he’s a great fighter, just like his father.

“I’m glad that Eubank accepted the fight against me. It’s another opportunity for me to fight the best in the division and prove that I’m right up there and as good as anyone at middleweight.

“I just have to go in there Saturday night and take this belt home. Any way that I can with any strategy that works best. Whatever it takes, I will win this fight.

“I loved fighting at Barclays Center and it was a great experience for me last year. I think having that experience will definitely help me in this fight. There are a lot of Russians in Brooklyn and I’m excited for them to come out and support me.

“I’m really happy to be back here, especially on the undercard to Jermall Charlo. It makes sense for us because if we both go in and take care of business, we can make the rematch happen easily.”

MARLON TAPALES

“I have trained so much and worked so hard to get here today. We’re going to put on a great show for you Saturday night, and the best man will win.

“I’m going to make this my fourth knockout in the U.S. I’ve worked really hard to make sure that happens and we give all the fans a lot of excitement.

“The training camp that I had was definitely one of the best of my career. I’m strong and ready to show off everything we’ve worked on.

“I’m very motivated for this fight. Every day we focus on becoming world champion again. It is up to me and my team to fight the right way and make sure do everything we can Saturday night.”

RYOSUKE IWASA

“My opponent has very good skills and is a tough fighter. But I also have good skills and a lot of experience. I will give everyone a great fight on Saturday night.

“I’ve been training very hard for a tough southpaw. I’m going to show you the adjustments I’ve made for southpaws on Saturday night. I won’t have any problems with his style.

“I think that my experience will definitely help me in this fight. I’ve fought all over and against every different style throughout my career. Not just in fights, but in sparring too. There won’t be anything we can’t handle.

“We definitely want to steal the show. We work hard so that we can leave it all in the ring and I know that Tapales will bring the same mentality to fight night. It’s going to make the fans the winners and the best man will have his hand raised.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc.

“This is our 20th event at Barclays Center, and 22nd if you count CBS, which is far more than any other network. We’ve been to Barclays Center more than any other venue since it opened. Anybody who is a fan of boxing knows what Barclays Center has done for the sport and we are looking forward to getting back there again.

“This is Jermall’s 10th fight on SHOWTIME. He is a graduate of ShoBox and this is his fourth fight at Barclays Center. We are proud of our history with Jermell and Jermall and bringing you what we feel is a very intriguing card.

“In our co-main event we have the U.S. debut of Chris Eubank Jr. and we are thrilled that it is with SHOWTIME. Of course his father, Chris Eubank Sr., has a history with SHOWTIME and we were proud to be a part of his career and now with Chris Eubank Jr. Chris’ last few fights were at super middleweight and now he returns to his more natural weight of 160. And all six of his victories at 160 were by knockout. So he is certainly someone who should be reckoned with at 160 or 168.

“As for Matt Korobov, he is certainly someone no one wants to fight. We have heard the dialogue around this fight and people question Chris on why he would do this fight – ‘It’s too tough a fight, too risky a fight. It makes no sense.’ Well, it does make sense if you are fighting for your legacy. If you are fighting for meaningful fights. If you’re trying to elevate the sport, these are exactly the fights that make sense and I give much credit to Chris Eubank Jr. and Matt Korobov for taking this very entertaining fight.

“In our main event, what can you say about Jermall Charlo. He is entertaining, he’s charismatic. He’s certainly, undoubtedly, one of the top middleweights in the world. And you can make a good argument, at least in my book, that’s he’s the very best middleweight in the world. I think the most effective think you can say about Jermall is that you never hear him called out. You never hear, or almost rarely, do you hear another middleweight call out Jermall Charlo. When it’s time to set up fights all of the sudden there’s a lot of amnesia going around. And the name Jermall Charlo doesn’t get mentioned, and for good reason. He is the boogieman of the division. When he put a call out for this fight, there are a lot of guys who did not answer and I can testify to that.

“I give much credit to Dennis Hogan because he did step up to a fight that many others did not. We are expecting to see a better Dennis Hogan than we’ve ever seen before, and he will tell you that himself. He’s fighting at a heavier weight of 160 and feeling much stronger.”

#

ABOUT CHARLO VS. HOGAN
Charlo vs. Hogan will see WBC Middleweight Champion Jermall Charlo defend his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™, in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title plus former world champions clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa meet for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title

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

Beverly Hills, CA (December 5, 2019)–Fridayu Undefeated Super Middleweight Kalvin “Hot Sauce” Henderson returns to the site of his biggest victories, The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia when he takes on Genc Pllana in the eight-round co-feature of King’s Promotions card.

Henderson of Dallas, who trains in Fayetville, Arkansas has a record of 12-0 with eight knockouts, and will be making his 3rd start at the 2300 Arena.

On December 7,2017, Henderson stopped Brandon Robinson in seven rounds in a fight that dubbed “The Philadelphia Fight of the Year: On May 10th, Henderson

With those wins, Henderson established himself as one of the fastest rising super middleweight contenders in the world.

“Back in Philly which feels like another home to me. I’m excited to be fighting at the 2300 Arena as the co-main event against a game opponent. Getting back in the ring and continuing our quest to our first world title on December 6th has been on my mind since August! I’m feeling great and ready to put on a show #TeamSauce #Straightright #NoLimitMindset #KingsPromotions #ALLGloryToGod,” said Henderson.

Henderson is managed by Shane Shapiro’s No Limit Mindset LLC, and is promoted by King’s Promotions.

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (Dec. 5, 2019)– Rob “Bravo” Brant’s quest to regain a world title will begin on the Boardwalk. Brant, a former middleweight world champion, will make his ring return against former super middleweight world title challenger Habib “Wild Hurricane” Ahmed 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).

Brant is fighting for the first time losing his belt via second-round stoppage to Ryota Murata, the man he upset to win the WBA middleweight title in October 2018. Following the Murata defeat, Brant enlisted the services of trainer/manager Brian “BoMac” McIntyre and has been training alongside pound-for-pound king Terence “Bud” Crawford, WBO junior lightweight world champion Jamel “Semper Fi” Herring and former junior welterweight world champion Maurice “Mighty Mo” Hooker.

“I am excited to be back fighting under the Top Rank banner with a new team,” Brant said. “Training in Colorado Springs has shown me what it’s like to work with a coaching staff that have mastered their craft. I am expecting a tough fight with Ahmed, as he has proven to be a dangerous Ghanaian fighter. I’m confident my team will train me to showcase my talent. There hasn’t been a day that has gone by that I haven’t thought about regaining my title. None of that happens until I conquer the task at hand. I will reign again as a world champion.”

“This is a great opportunity to prove I am a middleweight to watch,” Ahmed said. “Super middleweight was not my natural weight, and I feel fresher and more powerful since moving down in weight. Rob Brant and his team made the wrong choice for a comeback opponent. I am coming to shock the boxing world and earn another world title shot.”

Brant (25-2, 17 KOs), from St. Paul, Minn., authored one of the biggest upsets of 2018 when he bested Murata over 12 scintillating rounds in Las Vegas. He threw 1,262 punches that evening and followed up his title-winning effort with a dominant 11^th-round TKO over Khasan Baysangurov in Hinckley, Minn. In July, he traveled to Osaka, Japan, and Murata flipped the script, engaging in a toe-to-toe battle that lasted 5 minutes, 34 seconds. Murata landed 64 power punches in the second round before referee Luis Pabon stopped the bout.

Ahmed (27-1-1, 18 KOs), from Accra, Ghana, is best known for his February 2018 title challenge against Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, which ended via sixth-round TKO defeat. He moved down to middleweight in May, notching a shutout eight-round decision over Juan De Angel in Biloxi, Miss. Ahmed has been training in Miami recently and has sparred with the likes of former world champion Andre Dirrell.

The ESPN+ undercard stream, which begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, will include the following bouts:

• The fighting Adorno brothers will once again appear on the same undercard. Older brother Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (14-0, 12 KOs) will face Hector Garcia (14-7-3, 8 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight bout, while 18-year-old Jeremy “Magic Hands” Adorno (3-0, 1 KO) will battle Artrimus Sartor (4-3, 1 KO) in a four-rounder at super bantamweight.
   
• South Jersey native Chris “Sandman” Thomas (13-1-1, 8 KOs) will fight for the sixth time as a pro in Atlantic City versus Samir Barbosa (37-16-3, 26 KOs) in a six-rounder at super middleweight.
   
• Shinard Bunch (4-1, 4 KOs), the fighting pride of Trenton, N.J., will take on Dennis Okoth (4-2-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round welterweight tilt. Bunch’s only defeat came via close decision in August to unbeaten prospect Paul Kroll.
   
• Heavyweight prospect Sonny “The Bronco” Conto (5-0, 4 KOs), who hails from South Philadelphia, will make his Atlantic City debut in a four-rounder against an opponent to be named.
   
• Xander Zayas (2-0, 2 KOs), the 17-year-old welterweight fresh off a first-round TKO Nov. 30 in Las Vegas, will see action in a four-rounder against Antonio Duarte (2-2, 0 KOs). Zayas, a native of San Juan, Puerto Rico, won 11 national amateur titles before signing a pro contract with Top Rank at the age of 16. 

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.  

About ESPN+
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