London, UK (15 November 2019) Here are the official weights from today’s weigh-in for this Saturday’s Hennessy Sports World Championship Boxing event at The York Hall, Bethnal Green, headlined by Alex Dilmaghani v Francisco Fonseca for the Vacant IBO World Super-Featherweight Championship and John Joe Nevin v Freddy Fonseca for the Vacant WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship:

The Vacant IBO World Super-Featherweight Championship
12 x 3 Minute Rounds at 9st 4lbs (130lbs)

Alex Dilmaghani
Crayford, England
9st 3lb 8oz (129.8lbs)

vs.

Francisco Fonseca
Managua, Nicaragua
9st 3lb 5oz (129.5lb)

The Vacant WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship
10 x 3 Minute Rounds at 9st 4lbs (130lbs)

John Joe Nevin
Mullingar, Ireland
9st 3lb 2oz (129.2lb)

vs.

Freddy Fonseca
Managua, Nicaragua
9st 3lb 6oz (129.6lb)

6×3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest

Michael Hennessy Jnr.
Sevenoaks, England
11st 5lb 8oz (159.8lb)

vs.

Richard Baba
Szeged, Hungary
11st 5lb 6oz (159.6lb)

Promoted by Mick Hennessy in association with Infinitum, Channel 5 and Priority Promotions, Dilmaghani v Fonseca will be televised exclusively live in the UK on free-to-air Channel 5 and 5Spike.

Headline attraction on the card features Alex Dilmaghani versus Francisco Fonseca for the Vacant IBO Super-Featherweight Championship. Chief support sees an exciting clash between Irish star John Joe Nevin v Freddy Fonseca for the WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship. A packed and top quality undercard also features: Fast rising Sevenoaks middleweight talent Michael Hennessy Jnr; Stockwell welterweight Samuel Antwi; Welsh super-featherweight Rhys Edwards; Chelsea Lightweight Connor Marsden; two London based Romanians: super-welterweight Flavius Biea and heavyweight Lucian Atani; Basildon super-lightweight Lewis Smith; Islington middleweight Billy Underwood; Luton super-lightweight Jahid Munim and Islington featherweight Alizara Ghadiri.

Tickets are available from MyFightTickets: https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-york-hall

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Dilmaghani vs Fonseca grudge fight is back on!

Ringside Report
Ringside Report Takes a Closer Look at Boxer Alex Dilmaghani

15 November 2019 – Singapore: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), in partnership with the Global Association of Mixed Martial Arts (GAMMA), is set to host the 2019 GAMMA World Championship this 18-23 November at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. The event brings together over 40 teams from GAMMA member nations consisting of world-class amateur mixed martial arts athletes and coaches.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “ONE Championship is excited to host the 2019 GAMMA World Championship in Singapore this 18-23 November. As the world’s largest martial arts organization, we are committed to providing all amateur mixed martial arts athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills on the largest most prestigious global platform for martial arts competition. Working with GAMMA in this initiative is very important for us here at ONE Championship. Our athletes are the very foundation of the sport, who inspire the world with their incredible stories, and stand as role models for society. As a lifelong martial artist, I am personally invested in ensuring that all athletes have the right support to pursue a viable professional career in the mixed martial arts industry.”

Teams from over 40 countries have been confirmed to participate in the tournament, including over 300 top amateur athletes and 100 coaches.

Athletes will be competing for national pride in the discipline of mixed martial arts across 16 weight divisions, both male and female. At the end of the tournament, the top male and female athletes will earn a contract with ONE Championship worth USD $100,000 each. In addition, the winner of each weight division will earn a one year training scholarship at Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts.

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

About ONE Championship™
ONE Championship (ONE) is the largest global sports media property in Asian history, and the largest producer of millennial live sports content in Asia. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE is the Home of Martial Arts, and is the world’s largest martial arts organization, hosting bouts across all styles of martial arts such as Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Kung Fu, Silat, Sanda, Lethwei, Mixed Martial Arts, Tae Kwon Do, Submission Grappling, and more. ONE hosts the biggest sports entertainment events across Asia, featuring some of the world’s best martial artists and world champions on the largest global media broadcast in Asia. ONE Esports, a subsidiary of ONE Championship, runs Asia’s largest global esports Championship Series with some of the biggest blockbuster game titles in the world. In addition to its digital platforms, ONE Championship broadcasts to over 2.6 billion potential viewers across 140+ countries with some of the largest global broadcasters, including Fox Sports, ABS-CBN, Astro, ClaroSports, Startimes, Thairath TV, Skynet, Mediacorp, Great Sports, Tencent, Star TV, Mediaset Italia, ProSiebenSat.1, Dubai Sports, Turner Sports, and more.

SLOAN, IOWA – November 14, 2019 – Uruguayan knockout artist Amilcar Vidal (9-0, 8 KOs) and El Paso’s Zach Prieto (9-0, 7 KOs) are both predicting an all-action affair in their upcoming eight-round middleweight bout.

The two power punchers will collide this Friday, November 15, in the opening bout of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from the WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.

In the 10-round main event, undefeated Erik Vega (16-0, 9 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico, will face 2016 Olympian and decorated amateur Alberto Palmetta (12-1, 8 KOs) of Argentina; and hard-hitting Marcos Escudero (10-0, 9 KOs), also of Argentina, will take on Houston’s Joseph George (9-0, 6 KOs) in the 10-round light heavyweight co-feature.

The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing in association with Paco Presents. Tickets, starting at $10, are on sale now and available at www.WinnaVegas.com.

23-year-old Vidal, from Montevideo, spent his training camp working primarily with older brother Richard Vidal and up-and-coming head coach Freddy Fundora at Fundora’s private gym in Coachella, Calif.

Vidal, who will be fighting for the first time in the U.S., said working with his team and sparring with undefeated welterweight contender Sebastian Fundora gave him the perfect preparations for his big opportunity. “I had great sparring and a perfect camp,” said Vidal. “This is a very important fight for my career and my growth as a professional fighter. It’s a chance for me to demonstrate I can compete at this level. I feel more motivated than ever fighting in the U.S.”

Vidal has only gone the distance once in his young career. In his most recent fight, he scored a dominant unanimous decision over Argentina’s Nicolas Luques Palacios for the WBC Latino Middleweight Championship in May. The South American slugger says he’s eager to start another extended knockout streak against Prieto.

“I’m always looking for the knockout and I will be Friday night. Prieto is a strong guy, but I trust my team and my training to carry me through to the devastating win. I always knew all my hard work would pay off. I’m not sure exactly how it will go in the ring, but I can adapt to any style and get them out of there. This is my dream come true and I will make the most of it.”

27-year-old Prieto says having the proper time to train with former fighter and renowned trainer Louis Burke at the Las Cruces, New Mexico PAL has made him more prepared for this fight than any he’s ever been in.

Training in Las Cruces has also put him in frequent contact with former world champion and hometown hero Austin Trout, who has been sharing advice with the young prospect.

“Camp went great,” said Prieto. “I’ve never had an opportunity to see film and come up with a strategy for an opponent before. We were able to work on a couple things we want to execute. Austin talked to me about a lot of things too, like about fundamentals, how to keep your composure and how to walk in without reaching. He also showed me how to stay active with the jab and assess distance and told me to stay calm and focused under the bright lights. I have a great team behind me.”

The son of a retired El Paso police officer, Prieto says that many of his hometown fans will be having watch parties when he steps in the ring Friday night. While he won’t commit to a prediction in the fight, he says his aggression and pressure will eventually wilt the Uruguayan.

“Vidal has got some reach and knows how to use it, but I’ve fought guys taller than him before in the amateurs and even in the pros. I’m comfortable with taller opponents. This sport puts you in dangerous places and tests you. That’s what I love about it. I’m going in there ready for whatever comes and hopefully I land the right punches to set the guy back. I just want to pick my targets and see how much damage I can cause. I’m ready.”

#

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

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

CONTACTS:
SHOWTIME Sports: (212) 708-1339
Steve Pratt, BZA PR for SHOWTIME: (310) 408-4555
Andre Courtemanche, Sampson Boxing: (954) 302-2462
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.

GUANAJUATO, MEXICO (Nov. 14, 2019): Pablo Cesar “El Demoledor”
Cano (32-7-1, 22 KOs) and Roberto “Massa” Ortiz (35-4-2, 26 KOs) hosted their final press conference today at Quince Restaurante Bar in Guanajuato, Mexico ahead of their 10-round fight for Cano’s WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Title. The action takes place this Saturday, Nov. 16 on the latest edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch at The Plaza De Toros San Miguel De Allende in Guanajuato, Mexico. The fights will be streamed globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

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

PABLO CESAR CANO, WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Champion:
“Some of you may already know me, but the rest of you will have the pleasure of getting to know me this Saturday. I’m very happy to be here in Guanajuato. It’s not my first time fighting here. It’s my second time here. We’ve come very prepared and motivated. We are also very concentrated on this fight as it is very important for my career. I want to dedicate this fight to all of the people here.”

ROBERTO ORTIZ, Super Lightweight Contender:
“I want to thank my promoters, Roberto Diaz and Memo Rocha for giving me the opportunity to step in the ring again. I know it’s a great opportunity. It’s an opportunity to get to the top of the division. I’ve been very concentrated and prepared. I have been visualizing the fight and the victory. I’ve prepared very well with Joel and Antonio Diaz, so make sure you don’t miss this big night of boxing at the Plaza de Toros!”

RICARDO SANDOVAL, Flyweight Contender:
“I’m very happy and grateful to be fighting here. The truth is that it’s my first time fighting here. Tomorrow we will weigh-in and Saturday we will give everything. I’ve very concentrated and prepared for this fight. God willing we will get the victory, so don’t miss it this Saturday because it’s going to be a great one.”

GILBERO GONZALEZ, Flyweight Contender:
“This is going to be a great event. I want to thank Golden Boy for this opportunity. I want to thank thus great city for opening its doors for me. This will be a great fight, and a win will open many doors for me, so expect a great show.”

SULEM URBINA, Super Flyweight Contender:
“I want to thank God for allowing me to get to this point of my career. I come from a very humble background, so if it weren’t for boxing, I would have never even been able to ride on an airplane and be with you all today in this great city. It fills me with such happiness. Because of boxing, I’ve been able to travel the world, and that’s what keeps opening doors for me. I want to thank Golden Boy and Roberto Diaz for the opportunity. I haven’t fought in several months, so I am very happy to be fighting on a Golden Boy card. When I got the call to fight here, I think I almost cried. So, I’m very excited and you have to make sure you don’t miss the fights this Saturday.”

LUZ MARTINEZ, Super Flyweight Contender:
“I want to tell you all to not miss the fights this Saturday. I promise to deliver a great battle. I also want to say something to my opponent: Let’s make sure we give everything in the ring and deliver a great battle!”

Cano vs. Ortiz is a 10-round fight for the WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The event will take place Saturday, Nov 16 at The Plaza De Toros San Miguel De Allende in Guanajuato, Mexico.The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Tickets for the event are on sale and are available at www. ETicket.mx

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

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

PUEBLA, Mexico (Nov. 14, 2019) — Boxing’s busiest world champion, WBO junior featherweight king Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete, will make his fourth world title defense in less than seven months against Francisco “Panchito” Horta Saturday, Dec. 7 at Auditorio GNP Seguros in Puebla, Mexico.

Navarrete, from Mexico City, will fight in his home country for the first time since before he won the world title from Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden last December.

In the co-feature, Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas will make the eighth defense of his IBF junior bantamweight world title against Chilean veteran Miguel “Aguja” Gonzalez. The opening bout will showcase three-time world title challenger Miguel Marriaga against Alfredo Mejia Vargas in an eight-round featherweight bout.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, Navarrete-Horta, Ancajas-Gonzalez and Marriaga-Vargas will stream live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

“Emanuel Navarrete is one of Mexico’s great young champions, and he’s only getting started,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “At 24 years of age, he is wise beyond his years and hungry to challenge himself against the very best. He’ll have defended his belt four times in 2019, and 2020 is shaping up to be another spectacular year for ‘Vaquero.’”

“I am very excited to close the year by defending my world title in my beloved Mexico,” Navarrete said. “This will be another dream that will be fulfilled, and I assure you another exciting fight. I always go for the knockout. I think it is best to win by knockout, and on Dec.7, the fans in Puebla will see another action-packed fight from ‘El Vaquero.’”

“On Dec. 7, the fans will get to know who I am. This will be guaranteed war because we are both Mexican warriors,” Horta said. “This is a golden opportunity. Definitely a dream that will come true sooner than expected. I will dispute the world title against the best 122-pounder in the world, Emanuel Navarrete. I will win the title at any cost.”

Navarrete (29-1, 25 KOs) made his United States debut last December against Dogboe, but in 2019, he has crisscrossed the western part of the country knocking out top opposition. He repeated the deed in May against Dogboe in Tucson, Ariz., scoring a 12^th-round stoppage. In August, headlining the inaugural fight card at Banc of California Stadium in Log Angeles, he stopped the then-unbeaten Francisco De Vaca in three scintillating rounds. Four weeks later, he returned on the Tyson Fury-Otto Wallin card in Las Vegas and knocked out Filipino contender Juan Miguel Elorde in four. The upset-minded Horta (20-3-1, 10 KOs), from Campeche, Mexico, is unbeaten in 13 fights dating back to 2014.

Ancajas (31-1-2, 21 KOs), one of boxing’s longest-reigning world champions, was scheduled to fight Jonathan Rodriguez Nov. 2 in Carson, Calif., but Rodriguez had to withdraw on Thursday of fight week due to visa issues. Ancajas, the Filipino star who won his world title in September 2016, remained in America to prepare for Gonzalez. Ancajas last fought May 4 in Stockton, Calif., knocking out Japanese challenger Ryuichi Funai in six rounds. This will be Ancajas’ first professional bout in Mexico. Gonzalez (31-2, 8 KOs), from Santiago, Chile, has fought only once outside of his home country. He has won two in a row since dropping a WBA world title eliminator earlier this year to Australian standout Andrew Moloney. 

“I am ready to defend my world title in front of the great Mexican fans,” Ancajas said. “Since my fight against Rodriguez was canceled, I’ve stayed in America to train, and I am in fantastic shape. Gonzalez is a worthy challenger and has beaten good opposition to earn this title shot.”

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for,” Gonzalez said. “Ancajas is a great champion, but this is my time.”

Use the hashtags #NavarreteHorta and #AncajasGonzalez 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.

ONTARIO, Calif. (November 14, 2019) – WBC Super Welterweight Champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison and former world champion Jermell Charlo continued their verbal sparring and nearly came to blows at a heated press conference in Los Angeles on Thursday, as they previewed their rematch taking place Saturday, December 21 in the FOX PBC Fight Night main event and on FOX Deportes 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.

Harrison vs. Charlo II has been building ever since the end of the first matchup on December 22, 2018. The two were set to meet on June 23, but the rematch was postponed when Harrison suffered torn ligaments after spraining his ankle in training.

Now that he is fully healed, Harrison is ready to cement his hold on the title while Charlo is ready to take back what he believes belongs to him. The rematch comes just one day short of a full year from the first time the two stepped into ring against each other on FOX.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Conga Room at L.A. Live:

TONY HARRISON

“Every time I see Jermell I just feel like he’s pretending. He’s convinced everyone he’s the toughest guy in the world. He gets up here and barks and makes excuses. I beat you the first time and I’m here again.

“If I was scared, I wouldn’t be here right now. I didn’t take any fight in between. I haven’t fought for a year, but I wanted to be put right back in it.

“I could beat him anywhere, it doesn’t matter. We could fight in this room right now. Nothing is going to change.

“There’s no respect. I’m going to show him each and every time. I’m not the one to play with. This isn’t Jorge Cota. You have somebody from Detroit. Whatever you want to do, we’re ready to do it at any given moment.

“His words definitely sparked the fuel in me that’s on fire now. He talks loud, but he’s not going to do anything. He doesn’t have the skill set to beat me.

“When he fought against Jorge Cota, he was the exact same fighter he was against me. There was nothing different. A leopard doesn’t change his spots. He’s going to hunt the same.

“When I say it’s all on the line, it’s really all on the line. I’ve never had a fight that’s been this important. There’s nothing else that matters. This right here can change my life.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“December 21 is my day. December 22 was the day they made a decision to give Tony a victory. I could have fought for my belt already but you saw what I did to Cota on June 23 and you saw what I was going to get ready to do to you.

“The judges that gave him the first fight woke me up. It’s motivating me. I’m past all the talking. I don’t need to talk trash about him.

“Nothing’s going to make me slow down. I’m going to move forward and I did. I went on and fought and showed everyone what I do. You see why I’m that guy.

“I have to prove a point. He has to prove a point. Let it be what it is. I have no problem with that. All of the talking doesn’t matter. He’s going to have to live up to his word and I’m going to live up to mine.

“It would be great to get a knockout, but we’re down to go 12. I’ll go to 15. It doesn’t matter. He can’t stand up to me in there and hurt me. He’s running scared. I’m for real about this. It’s about our hearts.

“I know that I won that first fight and I’m going to do things in a more dominant fashion this time. I’m going to be overpowering and ferocious. It will be the best Jermell Charlo. My plan is to show everyone that Tony Harrison is not on my level.

“The loss taught me to be more patient. It’s serving as a great motivator. I feel I’m the best in the division and it’s my job to show everyone why I’m a threat to everyone at 154-pounds.”

ALI SALAAM, Harrison’s Father & Trainer

“We’re thankful to everyone who made this fight happen and we appreciate Jermell and Derrick for giving us the opportunity to fight for the title the first time, and now we have the chance to solidify ourselves in the rematch.

“Tony and I are here to solidify ourselves as world champions. We deserve to be here and we’ve had an outstanding camp. It’s been excellent work with excellent sparring. We look forward to December 21 and showing the world we deserve this.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer

“I’m very happy to be here. It’s our third time doing this so hopefully third time is the charm. We’re going to be very prepared for this fight. This is what Jermell has been waiting on since December 23 last year. It’s the opportunity to get his title back.

“We know that Tony is here to defend his title but it’s our job to take it. We’re having great sparring and getting in the work so that we’re prepared for this fight. We’re looking forward to it.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“December 21 is really a tremendous fight between two elite fighters. Tony earned a victory during the first fight, but I know that Jermell is even more motivated for the rematch.

“We know that the fight was originally scheduled for June 23, until Tony suffered his injury. Jermell fought that night and drilled Jorge Cota in spectacular fashion. When we had the press conference to announce that fight, these fighters really did a lot of talking, but now I know they’re sick of talking. Now it’s time to fight.

“The Southern California fight fans are going to get another great fight here at the end of the year in Ontario. The 154-pound division is one of the hottest in boxing but first it’s time to settle this rivalry. This is a fight that promises nothing but fireworks.”

SLOAN, Iowa – November 14, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight prospect Erik Vega (16-0, 9 KOs) and 2016 Olympian Alberto Palmetta (12-1, 8 KOs) both made weight a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation debuts Friday night live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from WinnaVegas Casino in Sloan, Iowa.

The 24-year-old Vega, of Tijuana, Mexico, will make his U.S. debut against his toughest test to date, decorated amateur and Argentinian Olympian Palmetta.

In the co-feature, hard-hitting Marcos Escudero (10-0, 9 KOs) will take on Houston’s Joe George (9-0, 6 KOs) in a 10-round light heavyweight bout, and in the telecast opener, Uruguayan knockout artist Amilcar Vidal Jr. (9-0, 8 KOs) will fight for the first time in the U.S. when he meets Zach Prieto (9-0, 7 KOs) of El Paso, Texas, in an eight-round middleweight bout.

The event is promoted by Sampson Boxing in association with Paco Presents. Tickets, starting at $10, are available at www.WinnaVegas.com.

The ShoBox tripleheader will immediately follow the 9 p.m. ET/PT premiere of PARIAH: THE LIVES AND DEATHS OF SONNY LISTON, a documentary chronicling the rise and precipitous fall of one of the most vilified and misunderstood sports champions of all time. 

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

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Welterweight 10-Round Bout 

Erik Vega – 146 ½ lbs.

Alberto Palmetta – 146 lbs. 

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Carlos Sucre (Florida), Gloria Martinez-Rizzo (Florida), Bob Lafratte (Iowa)

Light Heavyweight 10-Round Bout 

Marcos Escudero – 174 ½ lbs.

Joe George – 173 ½ lbs.

Referee: Adam Pollack; Judges: Carlos Sucre (Florida), Gloria Martinez-Rizzo (Florida), Bob Lafratte (Iowa)

Middleweight 8-Round Bout 

Amilcar Vidal Jr. – 160 ½ lbs.

Zach Prieto – 160 lbs.

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Carlos Sucre (Florida), Gloria Martinez-Rizzo (Florida), Bob Lafratte (Iowa)

FINAL QUOTES:

ERIK VEGA:

“I know how important this fight is for me. Tomorrow, my entire career gets a new start. Everything that has happened in the past doesn’t matter. Tomorrow is all that matters. ShoBox is a great platform and it’s done so much to start the careers for so many fighters. We won’t take this lightly.

“I’m a boxer first but I have a lot of power too. I think I’m the total package. I have a little bit of everything that a boxer needs to be successful. I have skills, I know how to use the angles and I possess knockout power.

“This is a new route for me. All of my fights have been in Mexico but this is a tremendous opportunity for me and that’s why I took the fight. I’ve prepared for this fight very well and I’m taking it very seriously. My opponent is a southpaw, he’s got good skills. But I feel very confident that with the work I put in the gym, I will be victorious tomorrow night.

“I know a little bit about my opponent. I know that he’s aggressive and he likes to come forward. If I want to win, I have to listen to my team and do exactly what we worked on in the gym. I have to outbox him.”

ALBERTO PALMETTA:

“This fight is so important for me. When I left Argentina to come to the U.S. and fight for my dream, my first goal was always to be champion of the world. My team believes in me. Now, we have this opportunity to fight on TV in the main event and get closer to that goal. I’ve trained really hard for this. This is the right moment, the right time, and the right place for me.

“I know that I’m the smaller guy but It’s not important if you are tall or short. It’s more important whether you know how to move and control the distance. In my opinion, if you control the distance, you win the fight. That’s more important than size.

“I’ve watched my opponent a lot. He tries to attack and be aggressive, but we think he’s slow. In my opinion, he doesn’t control his body when he throws his punches. He’s off balance and he reaches. We want to counter every thing he does.

“I miss my family and friends a lot in Argentina. But when you have a dream, when you have a goal, you have to fight for it. My family supports me. It was really hard to leave and get on that plane. But I had to do it. I’m chasing my dream and I won’t stop until I accomplish it.

“My favorite fighters to watch were Roy Jones and Sergio Martinez from Argentina. My favorite boxer now is [Vasyl] Lomachenko and I try to model myself after him.”

MARCOS ESCUDERO:

“This fight means everything to me. I know it’s a step-by-step process to make it to the top, and this is the next step. It’s the most important fight of my life. We plan to bring the smoke.

“I don’t have any nerves about being on TV. I’m just excited for the world to see my talents. I can’t let the cameras and the lights affect me. I just need to stay calm and stick to the game plan.

“I’ve had a great training camp, and I’ve been working hard in camp for three months straight. My team around me is great. Charles [Mooney] knows what it takes and he has really helped me, especially defensively.

“When I came to the United States, I only had 10 amateur fights. I was a baby, brand new to boxing when I started the World Series of Boxing. I came here without experience. I don’t like to compare the amateurs to the pros too much. They are completely different.

“I grew up in the new generation of boxing. I grew up watching Canelo and Mayweather, and of course the Argentinians Sergio Martinez and Lucas Matthysse. Sergio Martinez was my inspiration but Marcos Maidana is the fighter that my style is closest too. I’m aggressive, a hard puncher and I’m always moving forward.”

JOE GEORGE:

“Tomorrow night, you’ll see speed, footwork, sharpness, head movement. When I’m in the zone, it’s hard to explain. You just have to witness it. It’s a beautiful thing. I’m more of a boxer, but I can do both. I can brawl but I prefer to show my boxing skills. This guy is going to fight, so I’ll be able to show more of my skill.

“As a kid, I’ve always dreamed of this opportunity. At the time, it felt impossible. It felt like you needed to be superhuman to get the opportunity to fight on SHOWTIME. So to be here is surreal, but I am ready.

“I’ve trained hard. I’m ready for whoever is put in front of me. I treat all my opponents as a champion, so I put all my work and effort to be prepared for moments like these.

“I know that my opponent has a high knockout ratio. He’s undefeated, but I don’t know how he’ll respond to a fighter of my quality. I won’t take him lightly.”

AMILCAR VIDAL JR.:

“I want to be my country’s first world champion. It would mean so much, not only to my country, but to myself and to my family. That is my goal and this is just a step to getting to that ultimate goal.

“My father was a boxer. My brother was a boxer. I was born in the ring. I started boxing when I was 6 years old and I realized I had a natural talent. As a pro, I was knocking everybody out. My last opponent was the first one that went the distance with me. I wasn’t frustrated that I didn’t knock him out. I still dropped him.

“I’m prepared. I’ve seen a couple of my opponent’s fights. He’s very strong and he has more amateur experience than I do. I know that he’s a knockout artist too, and I’m coming to knock him out. I need to take advantage of every opportunity I get.

“This is my first fight on TV, but I’m calm. I’m not anxious. I know this is a very important fight for me and I’m ready to go.

“I was hit by a car in 2015. I broke my pelvis and my humerus bone in my arm. I was in the hospital for two months and it took a year to fully recover. But I’m 100 percent now and I’m so grateful to be here and have this opportunity.”

ZACH PRIETO:

“We’ve been at it for a while. I’ve trained nearly my whole life for this. I’ve always been involved in the sport, and to finally have an opportunity like this means the world.

“I like the quick knockouts. You never know what’s going to happen in a fight, so the quicker I can end it the better. But I need to be smart with this guy. I can’t expose myself and open myself up to get hit. I’m prepared to go eight rounds and it’s important for me to stay calm while I’m in there.

“I view this as an audition. Of course, I would love to sign with a promoter. I want the fans to remember who I am when they see me, and I want them to say: ‘Where did this guy come from? I like what he has.’ I really like to ‘wow’ the crowd. As a fan growing up, I always liked those underdogs.

“I’ve learned a lot from Austin Trout. How to stay busy, how to keep moving, how to manage your angles, manage distance. He’s been great for me. One of the biggest things he’s taught me is how to stay up on your feet. I’ve sparred countless rounds with him.

“This is my first fight on TV but I’ve seen it all fighting in Mexico. In my eyes, a fight is a fight. The nerves are always going to be there, that’s never going to change. You’re stepping into a dangerous situation and you need to manage your feelings.”

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

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

New York, NY (November 14, 2019) DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing series, now in its 17th year, returns to Manhattan with its annual New York City Holiday Show at Terminal 5 in Hell’s Kitchen on Thursday, December 5. The 112th edition of Broadway Boxing will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Advance tickets, priced at $175, $110 and $70 (Standing Room Only), may be purchased by calling 212-947-2577. Terminal 5, one of the premier live music venues in New York City, is located at 610 W. 56th Street (11th Avenue) in New York City. Doors on the night of the event will open at 6:30pm with the first fight scheduled for 7:00pm. For further information, please visit their website, www.Terminal5NYC.com.

“I’m thrilled to bring Broadway Boxing back to Manhattan on Thursday, December 5, for a special holiday edition of heated action from Terminal 5 in Hell’s Kitchen, streamed live on UFC Fight Pass,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Coming off of a spectacular knockout-of-the-year candidate, WBC Silver super featherweight champion O’Shaquie Foster is determined to move one step closer to a world title shot facing experienced Puerto Rican southpaw Alberto Mercado in the main event. Women’s world championship boxing will be highlighted on this card with Ana Laura Esteche and Mary McGee vying for the vacant IBF super lightweight title. Brooklyn’s Mikkel LesPierre returns to the ring following his spirited battle against world champion Maurice Hooker earlier this year. Heavyweight knockout artist Stephan Shaw and future lightweight star Victor Padilla see action as well. A trio of popular New York prospects round out the stacked undercard, including Tom Loeffler-promoted Brian Ceballo along with Brooklyn’s Christian Bermudez and Frederic Julan.”

Headlining the event, O’Shaquie “Ice Water” Foster (16-2, 10 KOs), of Houston, TX, will defend his WBC Silver Super Featherweight Title in a 10-round clash against Alberto “The Transformer” Mercado (16-3-1, 3 KOs), of Humacao, Puerto Rico.

The 26-year-old Foster, rated #8 by the WBC and one of the sport’s fastest rising stars, won the title by defeating previously unbeaten Jon Fernandez via unanimous decision on September 21, 2018, in a bout telecast on SHOWTIME. The Bobby Benton-trained world ranked contender has been victorious twice this year; a third-round stoppage of Fatiou Fassinou on February 23 followed by a devastating highlight-reel eighth-round knockout of Jesus Bravo on July 17. The upset-minded Mercado seeks his way back into the win column following an eight-round decision loss to Chris Colbert on June 23, 2019, in Brooklyn, NY. Over the course of 10 years as a professional, Mercado has fought numerous top contenders, including Lamont Roach, Jayson Velez and Braulio Rodriguez.

Co-featured in a 10-round women’s world championship bout, former world champion Ana Laura “La Monita” Esteche (14-5-3, 2KOs), of Buenos Aires, Argentina, and former world title challenger “Merciless” Mary McGee (25-3, 13 KOs), rated #1 and #2 respectively by the IBF, square off with the vacant IBF Super Lightweight World Title at stake.

The 29-year-old Esteche will be looking to regain the world title she lost to fellow Argentinian Erica Farias in a very close 10-round decision on December 29, 2017. Earlier this year, Esteche defeated Maria Angelica Ruiz in a six-round unanimous decision on July 12. Having fought most of her nine-year career in the battlegrounds of Argentina, Esteche will be fighting in the United States for the first time on December 5. Riding a five-bout winning streak, the 33-year-old McGee has twice challenged for world titles, coming up short against champions Holly Holm and Farias. Fighting at home on April 6, 2019, she won a six-round unanimous decision against Szilvia Szabados.

Heavyweights will see action as undefeated top prospect Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw (12-0, 9 KOs), of St. Louis, MO, clashes with Gregory “Bad News” Corbin (15-2, 9 KOs), of Dallas, TX, in a scheduled 10-round bout.

The 27-year-old Shaw continues to impress boxing fans around the country with his thrilling knockouts. He kicked off 2019 with a third-round stoppage of Donovan Dennis on March 2, in Columbus, OH. Following that up on August 29, Shaw knocked out Willie Jake Jr. in the fourth round at Foxwoods Resort Casino. Coming from a family of fighters, the 6-foot-4 Shaw capped his amateur years with 2013 championships at the USA Nationals and the National PAL tournament. The heavy-handed Corbin has provided tough tests this year for heavyweight contenders Charles Martin and Filip Hrgovic.

Popular Puerto Rican lightweight prospect Victor “El Turu” Padilla (6-0, 5 KOs), of Berlin, NJ, will face Fredric Bowen (6-3-1, 3 KOs), of Jackson, TN, in a six-round tilt.

The 20-year-old Padilla, recently signed to DiBella Entertainment, has looked sensational in 2019, thrilling crowds with his world class skills. Competing on August 1, he knocked out Benjamin Borteye in the first round in Monroeville, PA. In his last start on October 4, the southpaw won a six-round shutout decision against Romain Tomas in Philadelphia, PA. Padilla turned professional in December 2016 after a stellar amateur career that included three National championships and a record of 90-7. The battle-tested Bowen hits the ring following a third-round knockout versus Ronald Rivas on April 27, 2019, in Joliet, IL.

Former world title challenger Mikkel “Slikk Mikk” LesPierre (21-1-1, 6 KOs), Brooklyn, NY, clashes with Roody Pierre “Rude Boy” Paul (16-5-2, 6 KOs), of Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada, in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

A professional and fan favorite for seven years, LesPierre looks to rebound from his only loss, a hard-fought defeat via decision in a world title clash against then-WBO World Champion Maurice Hooker on March 9, 2019. In his last Manhattan appearance, LesPierre won a highly entertaining 10-round unanimous decision versus previously undefeated Noel Murphy on February 7, 2018. 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. Nine-year veteran Paul has faced a wealth of top Canadian fighters and will be making his New York City debut against LesPierre. The upset-minded Paul hits the ring following a 10-round decision loss to Steven Wilcox on May 9, 2019, in Toronto, Canada.

Other top prospects seeing action in separate bouts on the stacked card include welterweight Brian Ceballo (11-0, 6 KOs), of New York, NY, lightweight Christian Bermudez (1-0, 1 KO), of Brooklyn, NY, light heavyweight Frederic Julan (11-0, 9 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY, and female light heavyweight prospect Shadasia Green (3-0, 2 KOs), of Paterson, NJ. More information on these bouts will be announced shortly. The Ceballo bout is promoted in association with Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions.

New York, November 14, 2019

Unlike the glory years of boxing, these days it is not often that two young stars, with perfect records and future aspirations of world title contention, take the risk to fight one another so early in their respective careers. This statement is a testament to the desire of greatness for both ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (Bellport, NY 4-0 1KO) and DASHAUN “TOOSWEET” JOHNS (Bronx, NY 2-0 1KO). Vargas and Johns will battle to keep their undefeated records when they fight on Star Boxing’s show on November 23rd. The fight will be part of a great undercard to the championship (WBC and ABO), grudge rematch between DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven. NY 18-2-1 7KO’s) and JOHNNY “HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY 10-4 1KO) at The Paramount in Huntington, NY as part of the “Rockin’ Fights” Series (#RF37).

Both Vargas and Johns are active in their communities and represent themselves with extreme character and authenticity. Both were decorated amateur fighters, Vargas a 2013 New York Golden Gloves Champion and Johns a Title National Champion. Both also have huge fan bases that will be competing on the noise meter at the Paramount. However, make no mistake, on November 23, chivalry will have no place in the ring; New York bragging rights as well as a perfect record are on the line. Both fighters have made it very clear that they know what is at stake as “someone’s 0 must go!”.

“I’m really excited for this and I’m ready for it” said Vargas. “Two undefeated fighters both from New York has a lot of bragging rights.” Alex Vargas has proven the ability to rise to the moment over his first four fights at The Paramount. His loud and colorful fan base continues to grow, and creates an entertaining atmosphere, fight after fight. As for what those fans can expect come November 23, “they can expect a very exciting, but smart fought fight. I won’t be the one taking my first loss.”

Vargas’ comments did not go unheard by Dashaun Johns. “Come fight night, he better keep that same energy,” said Johns. Returning to The Paramount for the third time, Johns is prepared to put on a show for his fans and knows a fight of this caliber, at this point in his career, could be a defining moment. “Champions are created inside and out of the gym,” said Johns. “To be the best you have to fight the best. This is my legacy! The time is now.”

“Rockin’ Fights” 37 is promoted by Star Boxing on a thrilling night of fights from The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, featuring a WBC title doubleheader.
JOE DEGUARDIA, President of Star Boxing stated “This is what makes the Paramount so special. It is a throwback to the glory days of boxing, where fighters can develop in an atmosphere that prepares them for mega-fights since they become accustomed to pressure-cooker situations early in their career. Two warriors, under the lights in a packed house, fighting to keep their undefeated records. This is like a world championship fight for them and provides the experience needed for future success. They are both winners and will benefit from this experience, and I applaud them both for having the desire to succeed”.

Tickets are on sale now via ticketmaster.com. Doors open at 7:00 PM and event begins at 7:30 PM. Follow us on social media for more information @StarBoxing and join the conversation by using #RockinFights.
BUY TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” AT THE PARAMOUNT HERE
TICKETS START AT $50 | FIGHT NIGHT: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
BUY TICKETS HERE!

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 14, 2019): Fresh off his impressive victory on the undercard of Canelo vs. Kovalev, super middleweight prospect Bektemir Melikuziev (3-0, 3 KOs) has signed a co-promotional agreement with Golden Boy and World of Boxing. Details for his next fight will be announced shortly.

Melikuziev is a 23-year-old puncher with an impressive amateur resume, having captured silver medals at the 2015 AIBA World Boxing Championships and the 2016 Summer Olympics, among other accolades. The native of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan made his professional debut in June of this year, and he has remained undefeated in three fights that he has won by knockout. With his impressive background, Melikuziev plans to make a quick rise up the super middleweight rankings, and he is proud to do so with Golden Boy and World of Boxing.

“I am looking forward to a long and successful career working together with World of Boxing and Golden Boy,” said Melikuziev. “It’s a pleasure for me to have such a professional team! I have watched many of these great fights on TV and dreamt of one day becoming someone like the boxers that fight in the U.S. Now I have this chance, and I will take full advantage of this opportunity! Don’t blink, every one of my fights will be a performance not to miss!”

“Weare very excited to be working with World of Boxing to promote Bektemir Melikuziev,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “This man is an absolute beast. He’s strong, tough and very quick with his hands and feet, especially for his weight class. We look forward to moving him fairly quickly up the rankings as he puts everybody on notice at 168 pounds.”

Said Andrei Ryabinskiy, head of World of Boxing, “Bektemir is still young, but already a very experienced boxer that has proven his talent in the amateurs. I am confident that working together with Oscar De La Hoya, who has himself stepped into the highest pro ranks from the Olympic pedestal, we will be able to push Melikuziev’s career all the way to the top!”

“Bek is a real ‘Bully’ in the ring, but a very nice and happy person outside of the ring,” said Vadim Kornilov, Manager of Melikuziev. “I look forward to working with World of Boxing and Golden Boy to make Bek into the future star that he is already becoming!”

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

ONTARIO, Calif. (November 14, 2019) – Former world champions Guillermo Rigondeaux and Liborio Solis will battle for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World title Saturday, December 21 in the FOX PBC Fight Night co-main event and on FOX Deportes live in primetime from Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see rising heavyweight sensation Efe Ajagba taking on Iago Kiladze in a 10-round opening attraction. The event is is headlined by the highly anticipated WBC Super Welterweight Title rematch between Tony “Superbad” Harrison and Jermell “Iron Man” Charlo.

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

“With two world title fights and one of boxing’s most exciting prospects entering the ring, Saturday, December 21 is going to be a night of action that fans in Southern California won’t want to miss,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “In addition to the main event, one of boxing’s most skilled fighters, Guillermo Rigondeaux, will look to become a two-division world champion against a battle tested former champion in Liborio Solis. Plus, hard-hitting phenom Efe Ajagba hopes to pass another test with flying colors against Iago Kiladze to round out a tremendous lineup on FOX and FOX Deportes.”

Rigondeaux (19-1, 13 KOs) will look to move down and capture a title in a second weight class while showing off the masterful technical skills that made him a unified 122-pound world champion and perennial member of the pound-for-pound list. A two-time Olympic gold medalist for his native Cuba, Rigondeaux made his name with victories over the likes of Nonito Donaire, Rico Ramos and Joseph Agbeko. Most recently, Rigondeaux scored an exciting eighth-round stoppage of former champion Julio Ceja in June on FOX.

Born in Venezuela and fighting out of Panama, Solis (30-5-1, 14 KOs) will make his U.S. debut on December 21 while riding a five-fight winning streak. Solis captured a super flyweight world title in 2013 amidst a 14-bout unbeaten run. He has lost by decision in his two previous attempts at 118-pound title, including a controversial loss to Jamie McDonnell, which he has bounced back from on his current win streak.

Nigeria’s Ajagba (11-0, 9 KOs) most recently passed the toughest test of his professional career when he defeated fellow 2016 Olympian Ali Eren Demirezen by 10-round unanimous decision in July. The 25-year-old Ajagba gained widespread notoriety in August 2018 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. Ajagba won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified. Living in Stafford, Texas and training with Ronnie Shields, Ajagba has steadily increased his competition and added knockouts wins over Amir Mansour and Michael Wallisch this year.

The 33-year-old Kiladze (26-4-1, 18 KOs) broke a three-fight losing streak by fighting to a split draw in May against undefeated heavyweight Robert Alfonso. Kiladze’s losses had come against top heavyweight Adam Kownacki, Michael Hunter and Joe Joyce, who own a combined 34-1 record. Originally from Georgia and now fighting out of Los Angeles, Kiladze won six straight fights between 2014 and 2018.

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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.

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) came face-to-face with her opponent Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) for the first time at a press conference today in Oslo ahead of their interim WBC World Super Featherweight title fight on Saturday night.

Thanderz, a former European and WBC International Champion, headlines a stacked card at the Ekeberghallen as she challenges for her first World title, while Norway’s number one male boxer Kai Robin Havnaa (15-0, 3 KOs) takes on Mariano Angel Gudino (13-3, 8 KOs) in a crunch cruiserweight clash.

“I feel great. I can’t wait until Saturday,” said Thanderz. “I’ve had a great camp with really hard training. Some days I was completely exhausted but that’s what you have to do to win a fight like this. I have lots of friends and family coming on Saturday so I’m really happy about that. I’m not sure what’s going to happen but I know that I’m going to give it all. This is a big chance for me to realize my dream and win my first World title.”

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Ramos. “Norway is beautiful and it’s the first time I’ve ever seen snow. I feel like I’m already the champ. I didn’t take my belt home to Brazil last time, but there is no way that’s happening again. I’m certain I will win. Come to the fight or watch on TV, I will put in a sensational performance and you will see a new champion on Saturday!”

“It’s a tough fight for both girls and both fighters are here to win,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland.  “It’s a massive night for Norway. Boxing is growing sport over here. It’s been illegal for many years and there have been lots of restrictions, so I’m just happy to put on this great fight night. If Katharina wins then I think there will be a new Norwegian national hero and there will be some very big fights to be made, people like: Terri Harper, Eva Wahlstrom and other big names.”

“I’m happy to be here in Norway,” said Gudino, who comes in as a late replacement for Al Sands. “Havnaa is in trouble. He will see what it is like to fight a real warrior. I’ve come here to fight and I’ve come here to win. I’ve not come here for a holiday. I give the same importance to every fight I have. It doesn’t matter where it is or who it is against. I know Havnaa is a good fighter. He is a big opponent for me, but I’m ready for a war!”

“I can’t wait to get into the ring on Saturday night,” said Havnaa. “I’ve had a late change of opponent before so I’m used to this and I’m not going to let it affect me. My opponent looks fit and strong. I know he is coming here to fight and I will be prepared to face my best opponent yet. He’s says that he’s going to make it war so I’m expecting a war. Let’s go to war!”

“Kai’s had a late replacement. I gave him a list of three fighters and he’s picked the hardest one,” says Sauerland. “I really like his attitude and fingers crossed it doesn’t backfire. I expect a very good, tough fight. It’s going to be a great crowd and we are building something special here in Norway.

“The name Havnaa is synonymous with boxing in Norway. It’s a huge name here. His dad was a World Champion and now Kai is following in his footsteps and emulating his success. He’s the biggest star in boxing in Norway at the moment. He’s taking over and now he needs to produce the goods in the ring.”

Katharina Thanderz headlines a huge show at the historic Ekeberghallen as she faces Danila Ramos for the interim WBC Female World Super Featherweight crown, while Kai Robin Havnaa looks to bolster his World title claim in a crunch cruiserweight clash with Mariano Angel Gudino, and top talents Kevin Melhus, Alexander Hagen, Bernard Torres and Kent Erik Baadstad complete an action-packed card in the Norwegian capital.

Tickets are available online via www.ticketmaster.no. All the action will be available to watch live across Viasat 4, Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway.

Callum Smith has admitted that his 2020 Anfield dream would disappear if he were to surrender his WBA World, WBC Diamond and Ring Magazine Super-Middleweight titles to mandatory challenger John Ryder at the M&S Bank Arena Liverpool on Saturday November 23, live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US. 

‘Mundo’ returns home to fight in his native Liverpool for the first time since outpointing Sweden’s Erik Skoglund in September 2017 knowing that a win over his fellow Brit Ryder is vital if he is to secure a mega-fight against the likes of Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez or Billy Joe Saunders next summer. 

“I want the big fights, I want the superstar names and the only chance of me getting them is by having a World title, so I’ve got to keep my belt for as long as I can,” said Smith. “John Ryder poses a big threat. He wants to take what I’ve worked so hard for. I worked hard to win my World title and I’ve got to work even harder to keep it now.

“I’m expecting a tough fight from John Ryder, he’s in good shape and it’s a big opportunity for him. I just think the best version of me beats any Super-Middleweight on the planet. With the way I’ve been performing in the gym, I think I’m going to put in a big performance. You’ve got to respect him because he’s in good form. He’s won fights where he was the underdog and he wasn’t supposed to win.

“He deserves a lot of respect. He hasn’t just been picked out of a hat, he earnt the mandatory position with good wins. I respect every fighter and John especially, but like I said before I think the best version of me beats any Super-Middleweight in the World and as long as I turn up and perform the way I know I can then I think I’ll be too much for him.”

Smith (26-0, KOs 19), rated as the No 1 fighter in the 168lbs division, will fight for the first time as World Champion on home turf after blowing away Hassan N’Dam in three rounds last time out on the Anthony Joshua-Andy Ruiz Jr undercard in New York in June.

Ambitious plans are in place for Smith to fight at the home of his beloved Liverpool FC in May next year, potentially a unification clash against fellow Matchroom man Billy Joe Saunders who successfully defended his WBO title in LA last week, but Smith isn’t getting carried away and insists his focus is firmly on Ryder next week. 

“This fight is like every other fight in my career, they’ve always been must-win. I always wanted to be where I am now so any loss along the way would have derailed those plans. Now people are talking about 2020 and the massive names and the thought of Anfield. All of that disappears if I lose to John Ryder.

“It’s the same motivation that I’ve always had. I always want more and I’m always wanting to see what’s next. This fight is no different, a win over Ryder opens the door for possible huge fights in 2020. A loss to Ryder and they all disappear and I become a challenger again and I join the queue. It’s a must-win fight for me and that’s all I need. As long as I’ve got a World title I’m in a very good position.”

Smith vs. Ryder tops a huge night of action in Liverpool. 

Craig Glover (10-2, 8 KOs) takes on Chris Billam-Smith (9-1, 8 KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth Cruiserweight title, Anthony Fowler (10-1, 8 KOs) meets Harry Scarff (8-0, 1 KO) for the WBA International Super-Welterweight title, James Tennyson (25-3, 21 KOs) and Craig Evans (20-2-2, 3 KOs) square-off in a final eliminator for the British Lightweight title, Tom Farrell (17-2, 5 KOs) clashes with Sean Dodd (16-5-1, 3 KOs) in a must-win encounter for both men, Liverpool Light-Heavyweight talent Thomas Whittaker-Hart (3-0, 1 KO) aims to end his first year as a pro in style and Liverpool Super-Lightweight Marcus Molloy (1-0) and Skelmersdale Welterweight Tom Aitchson (1-0) both go for their second win in the pro ranks. 

Japanese Heavyweight Kyotaro Fujimoto today unveiled his secret weapon for defeating Daniel Dubois on December 21st: a panda.

At a press conference in Tokyo’s famous Korakuen Hall, Fujimoto declared the bear was key to getting him ready to tackle his “scary” opponent.With his trademark multi-colour hair, and equally impressive suit, Fujimoto stunned the room when he said: “My opponent is a giant of a man. He seems as big and strong as a bear. It’s a little scary to fight a bear, so I’ve brought in a panda as a sparring partner.”

Introducing his unorthodox training partner to the assembled media, Fujimoto finished the remainder of the press conference with his bamboo-loving friend at his side.

Fujimoto, a 33 year old Heavyweight with an impressive 21-1 record and a #12 ranking with the WBA, confessed to being impressed with what he’d seen of Daniel Dubois in the ring.

He said: “I watched some of his fights… my impression is that he boxes very skilfully”

Daniel ‘Dynamite’ Dubois, at just 22, is widely regarded as the most exciting prospect in Heavyweight boxing and at 13-0 with 12 KO’s represents a huge challenge to the Asian boxer.

Fujimoto accepts the deck is stacked in Daniel’s favour, but believes the fight is a milestone moment in his life and one that could change it for the better.

“It’s been a long road getting here so I’m really excited to finally make it to the big stage. Winning this fight is going to change my life, and I want to change my life.”

On the line in this epic match-up will be Daniel Dubois’ WBO International Heavyweight Title and also the WBC Silver Title.

The WBC’s Silver championship was formerly held by Dillian Whyte and is seen as a key stepping stone to a shot at a World title.

When asked about Dubois and promoter Frank Warren’s plans to make him a World Champion Fujimoto said: “They think they’re going to win, of course. They think they’re bringing me over as an easy win, but that’s not the case. I’m ready to take on the world.”

Channelling the spirit of Sylvester Stallone’s famous character, he went on to insist that on December 21st at the Copper Box Arena he could battle to an unlikely Rocky Balboa-style win.

“I’m going to go over there and fight with the spirit of Rocky. This is my big chance to show what I’m made of. I’m going to do my best to make this my Christmas present.

If I win, it’s going to change my life.”

With less than 6 weeks to go until what’s being called ‘The Fight Before Christmas’ Fujimoto, and the panda, had better to get to work if they plan to turn that dream into reality.

———-

Several images from the press conference are available here

Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions are heading to the Copper Box Arena to stage a bumper night of boxing on December 21st.

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.

Light Heavyweight prospect and Love Island star Tommy Fury (2-0) makes 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 will be available via Ticketmaster shortly

Ticket prices:

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

London, UK (14 November 2019) Irish ace John Joe Nevin scoffs at suggestions that he is being pitched into a world class assignment without the appropriate professional seasoning. In 13 paid outings so far, the super-skilled 2012 Olympic finalist and 2013 European amateur gold medallist is yet to feature beyond eight rounds. However, at London’s York Hall this Saturday (16 November), Nevin has been cast against Nicaragua’s seriously nasty Freddy Fonseca, a proven world grade operator who has conceded just four times in 32 starts and sent 18 opponents down before the scorecards were required. The pair collide over 10 rounds for the WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship with the victor assured a world ranking. The salivating showdown will be screened live and exclusive in the U.K on free-to-air Channel Five. ‘I’m not remotely worried. After being told I’d never boxing again, I’m enjoying these new challenges. I’ll be walking my way to the world title!’ quipped the Mullingar traveller who was told he might never box again after both his legs were broken in an out-of-ring altercation in April 2014. ‘You have to remember all my experience from the WSB (World Series of Boxing). I had 11 bouts (9 wins) boxing for Paris United, then the London Lionhearts; without head guards, wearing eight-ounce gloves in five round fights against elite opposition with professional style scoring. They were proper, aggressive scraps. They more than compensate. ‘On November 16th, U.K fans will see the skills of a genuine contender who’s coming to hunt the world champions down. After nailing the WBA International title I’ll chase a world title straight after. I’d only be interested in the European belt and the like if it guarantees getting me closer to a world title. ‘(Reigning IBF Champion) Tevin Farmer would be my preferred choice. He’s from Philly where I was based for the start of my pro career (under promoter Tom Moran’s GreenBlood organisation). When we were on the same bill, I sold a lot more tickets than Farmer ever did. They weren’t boxing fans who attended, they were John Joe Nevin fans. ‘Farmer beat two Irish guys already, Jono Carroll and James Tennyson, so I’d like to avenge that for Irishmen everywhere. I’d willingly fight Tevin in his home town but before MY fans. He’s pretty slick too but he’s not got what I’ve got.’ But if he’s to force that grudge match, nifty, nimble Nevin knows he must cast a spell over the formidable Fonseca in London on Saturday week in what is easily the stiffest assignment of his five and a half year pro career. ‘This kid’s no journeyman. He’ll not go into hiding. He’ll really go for it,’ acknowledges the man from County Westmeath. ‘Fonseca brings this big, big left hand. He knows he can punch but I’m confident I can frustrate him then walk him onto stuff. And I hit very hard. My record shows just the four kayos but it’s very hard to knock a man out when he’s running away. It’s just about timing the right punch. ‘An impressive win will stick me into the world top 15 and then I’ll not be too far away.’ Promoted by Mick Hennessy in association with Infinitum, Channel 5 and Priority Promotions, Dilmaghani v Fonseca will be televised exclusively live in the UK on free-to-air Channel 5 and 5Spike. Headline attraction on the card features Alex Dilmaghani versus Francisco Fonseca for the Vacant IBO Super-Featherweight Championship. Chief support sees an exciting clash between Irish star John Joe Nevin v Freddy Fonseca for the WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship. A packed and top quality undercard also features: Fast rising Sevenoaks middleweight talent Michael Hennessy Jnr; Stockwell welterweight Samuel Antwi; Welsh super-featherweight Rhys Edwards; Chelsea Lightweight Connor Marsden; two London based Romanians: super-welterweight Flavius Biea and heavyweight Lucian Atani; Basildon super-lightweight Lewis Smith; Islington middleweight Billy Underwood; Luton super-lightweight Jahid Munim and Islington featherweight Alizara Ghadiri. Tickets are available from MyFightTickets: https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-york-hall

Tickets are available from MyFightTickets: https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-york-hall

LOS ANGELES (November 13, 2019) – Three-division world champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz showed off his skills at a media workout in Los Angeles Wednesday as he prepares to battle Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the vacant WBA Super Featherweight Title on Saturday, November 23 in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Pay-View co-main event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.mgmgrand.com or www.axs.com.

Los Angeles’ Santa Cruz hosted media at City of Angels Boxing as he nears his opportunity to win a world title in a fourth weight class. Here is what Santa Cruz had to say Wednesday:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“I’m only focused on my fight because I know that Miguel Flores is going to bring everything he has to try to win that title. There are a lot of great champions in this division but I can’t think of anything past Flores.

“I’m expecting a classic Mexico vs. Mexico brawl. Flores is from Michoacan and the people from there have a lot of heart and they leave everything in the ring. I’ve seen him do it. He throws to the body really well. He has a good uppercut too. So I know it’s going to be a tough fight.

“We always work hard in the gym so that we can throw a lot of punches in the fight. We want to put the pressure on and give the fans a great fight and take home the win.

“I train hard no matter who the opponent is. That’s the only thing I know how to do. So I don’t think about any let downs, only about winning the fight in front of me. I think this is a great opportunity to introduce myself to the division.

“I’m going to go in there and fight hard for 12 rounds or as long as it lasts. I’m going to be smart and make sure I get the win. But we also always want to give the fans a great show from start to finish.

“I feel really good right now. I think I’m going to be strong at that weight and have extra power in the ring on fight night. I don’t spend as much time in camp worrying about cutting weight so everything else will be better because of that. I’m going to be ready for everything Miguel Flores can bring.

“I want to win another title for my legacy and so I can continue to give fans great fights. This is a great opportunity so I’m going to go ahead and make the most of it.

“It’s great to be on this card with such an exciting main event. You know that Deontay Wilder can knock anyone out at any minute. The heavyweight division is really exciting right now and I know Wilder and Luis Ortiz are going to give everyone something to remember. I want to make an exciting fight too and steal the show. It’ll be hard to do, but I’m going to go out there and try to do it.”

#

ABOUT WILDER VS. ORTIZ II
Wilder vs. Ortiz II will see boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Saturday, November 23 in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View action live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz seeks a title in another division when he takes on Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship in the co-main event.

Pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated rising star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his WBA Super Bantamweight Title against former champion Julio Ceja while undefeated Mexican power-puncher Luis Nery battles Puerto Rico’s Emmanuel Rodríguez in a matchup of former bantamweight champions.

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

MELBOURNE, Australia (November 13, 2019) – Guyana-native Elton Dharry didn’t travel halfway around the world from New York City to Australia simply to pick-up a paycheck, after his World Boxing Association (WBA) Interim super flyweight title fight this Friday, against undefeated Aussie fighter Andrew “The Monster” Moloney.

Dharry (24-5-1, 14 KOs) plans to ruin the expected coronation of Moloney (20-0, 13 KOs), the No. 1-rated WBA contender for the vacant title, who knocked out Miguel Gonzalez (29-1) this past March in the fourth round of their WBA Title Eliminator.

Moloney vs. Dharry is the 12-round main event streaming live on ESPN+ from Melbourne, Australia.

“I’ve trained and worked hard a really long time, so, for me, it doesn’t matter where this fight is being held,” Dharry said. “Traveling here wasn’t a problem. This is for a world title and that’s what I want. I do recognize it as my biggest fight, but I’m treating it as just another fight, and he’s just another opponent to me. That’s how I see it.

“I came here because I believe I can win this fight. It’s the reason I traveled 30-plus hours to get here. I don’t predict my fights; I just go in the ring prepared for whatever style. I’m going to do whatever it takes to win. His style doesn’t really mean anything to me. I’m here to win!”

The 33-year-old Dharry, WBA-rated No. 5 and reigning WBA Fedecentro and World Boxing Council (WBC) FECARBOX super flyweight champion, will enter the ring riding a 21-fight win streak dating back to 2010. As a bantamweight, Dharry is a former International Boxing Federation (IBF) Inter-Continental, Guyanese, and WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation title holder. In his sixth pro fight, back in 2007, Dharry extended future four-time, three-division world champion Leo Santa Cruz the full distance in a loss by way of a four-round unanimous decision.

“We’re extremely excited about this opportunity,” Havoc Boxing Promotions CEO Rob Diaz added. “Elton’s head trainer, Martin Gonzalez, has put together a masterful plan. We have no doubt Elton will execute and bring the championship back to Brooklyn.”

INFORMATION:

Website: www.TeamHavocUSA.com
Twitter: @HavocBoxingNYC, @elton_dharry
Instagram: @havoc_ceo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HavocBoxingNYC

New York, NY (November 13, 2019) On Thursday night in Washington, D.C., top contender Sonny Fredrickson (21-1, 14 KOs), of Toledo, OH, defends his USBA Super Lightweight Title against
Samuel “Tsunami” Teah (15-3-1, 7 KOs), of Philadelphia, PA, in the 10-round main event at the
30th Annual “Fight for Children” Gala held at the Hilton Hotel in our nation’s capital.

Today at the pre-fight weigh-in, the 25-year-old Fredrickson tipped the scales at 139.8 pounds, while Teah weighed in at 139.4.

Promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Fredrickson will be seeking his fourth straight victory. On May 18, 2019, the 6-foot-1 Fredrickson knocked out former world title challenger Joseph Laryea in the first round in Dearborn, MI.

Headlining last year’s “Fight for Children” event on November 1, 2018, Fredrickson won the vacant USBA Super Lightweight Title via 10-round unanimous decision versus Manuel Mendez. The only loss of his six years as a professional came in a hard-fought battle against Shohjahon Ergashev on January 12, 2018, in a bout telecast on SHOWTIME.

Fredrickson is currently world ranked #8 by the IBF and #11 by the WBA.

The 32-year-old Teah looks to rebound following a tough decision loss to Tre’Sean Wiggins on February 23, in Philadelphia, PA.

More information on the “Fight for Children” event can be found on their website at: www.FightForChildren.Org.

(Nov. 13, 2019) — Get ready for a fistic marathon.
 
Four fight cards from four nations spread across two days will stream live this weekend on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service.

The previously announced card from Melbourne, Australia, featuring twin brothers Jason and Andrew Moloney, will kick off the weekend starting Friday at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT. From England and Scotland to an interim world title bout in Germany, here’s what’s in store for fight fans.
 
Rocky Fielding Returns on #MTKFightNight Card in Liverpool
Friday, 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT
 
Former WBA super middleweight world champion Rocky Fielding (27-2, 15 KOs) will fight for the first time since challenging Canelo Alvarez last December, returning in a 10-rounder against Tanzanian puncher Abdallah Paziwapazi (26-6-1, 23 KOs) at the Olympia. Fielding won the world title last July with a TKO over then-unbeaten Tyron Zeuge, but he fell short against Canelo via third-round stoppage at Madison Square Garden. Paziwapazi is unbeaten in 10 bouts dating back to 2017, having won a pair of regional belts to earn the shot at Fielding.
 
In other bouts streaming from Liverpool:

• Four-time world title challenger Martin Murray (38-5-1, 17 KOs) will face Sladan Janjanin (27-4, 21 KOs) in an eight-rounder at super middleweight. Murray is best known for his controversial 2013 decision loss to middleweight world champion Sergio Martinez in Martinez’s home country of Argentina.
• Former lightweight world champion Terry Flanagan (35-2, 14 KOs) will face Jayro Duran (14-6, 13 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight tilt.
• Lightweight prospect Ged Carroll (11-0, 0 KOs) will take a step up in class versus Jeff Ofori (9-1, 3 KOs) in an eight-rounder. 
• Super flyweight Blane Hyland will make his long-awaited professional debut against Steven Maguire (0-18-1) in a four-rounder.

Fornling and Bösel to Battle for Interim Light Heavyweight World Title
Saturday, 2:30 p.m. ET/11:30 a.m. PT

Top Rank, in association with SES Boxing, will present a world championship afternoon of boxing from Messe Arena in Halle, Germany.

In the main event, Dominic Bösel (29-1, 11 KOs) will face Swedish contender Sven Fornling (15-1, 7 KOs) for the interim WBA light heavyweight world title. Bösel most recently defended his European crown in April with an eighth-round knockout over Timy Shala. Fornling has won five in a row since the lone loss of his career, most recently winning a unanimous decision over former world title challenger Karo Murat.

Said SES Boxing founder Ulf Steinforth: “I’m excited to give our fighters the opportunity to showcase their skills on the biggest sports platform in the world.”

In other bouts streaming from Germany:

• The fighting pride of Morocco, 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Mohammed Rabii (9-0, 5 KOs) will make his ESPN debut against Mexican veteran Jesus Gurrola (27-14-3, 14 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight contest.
   
• 2012 German Olympian Stefan Haertel (18-1, 2 KOs) will face David Zegarra (34-3, 21 KOs) in a 12-round showdown for the WBO Intercontinental super middleweight title.
   
• Top heavyweight prospect Peter Kadiru (5-0, 1 KO) will fight Venezuelan upstart Pedro Martinez (11-2, 5 KOs) in a six-rounder.

All-Scottish Bantamweight Battle Headlines #MTKFightNight from Glasgow
Saturday, 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT

This is about more than titles.

In one of the biggest all-Scottish clashes in a long time, Commonwealth bantamweight champion Lee McGregor will take on British champion Ukashir Farooq in a 12-round showdown from Emirates Arena in Farooq’s home city of Glasgow. McGregor, meanwhile, hails from Edinburgh, a roughly one-hour train ride away.

The 22-year-old McGregor (7-0, 6 KOs) defended his Commonwealth title in June with an eighth-round TKO over Scott Allan in a bout that streamed live on ESPN+. Farooq (13-0, 6 KOs) last fought in August, making the third successful defense of his British title with a first-round blitzing of Duane Winters.

Said McGregor: “This is the biggest fight in Scotland for a long, long time. You have to go back to Alex Arthur’s reign to find a comparison. It’s massive for me, for Kash and for all the Scottish boxing fans.”

In other bouts streaming from Scotland:

• The unbeaten Kieran Smith (15-0, 7 KOs) will make the first defense of his WBC International silver super welterweight belt against Italian challenger Vincenzo Bevilacqua (16-0, 0 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
   
• In an eight-round light heavyweight tilt, Tommy Philbin (12-0, 4 KOs) will take on the 18-year-old Nicolas Holcapfel (11-1, 9 KOs).
   
• Former Irish amateur superstar Pierce O’Leary (1-0, 0 KOs) will fight the battle-tested Chris Adaway (9-61-4, 1 KO) in a four-round super lightweight bout.
   
• Top Rank-signed Irish welterweight sensation Paddy “Real Deal” Donovan (1-0, 1 KO), who turned pro last month with a first-round stoppage, will fight Danny Mendoza (6-5, 4 KOs) in a scheduled six-rounder. 

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.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 13, 2019) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated blue-chip prospects, featherweight Richard Medina (5-0, 4 KO), and welterweight Hector Coronado (3-0, 2 KOs), will both be in action this Saturday, November 16, 2019, at the San Antonio Event Center. The card titled “Return of The Champ” is being promoted by TMB & PRB Entertainment and will feature former world champion, John Michael Johnson (31-10, 23 KOs) versus Omar Castillo (5-1, 2 KOs) in a 6-round super featherweight main event.

The 19-year old Medina, who is a native of San Antonio, TX, is looking to impress his hometown fans with a spectacular performance as he will be fighting in the 6-round co-main event. Medina will face veteran Guadalupe Perez (2-23) of Garland, TX.

“I’m very happy with my how my career is going,” said Media. “My promoter TMB & PRB Entertainment have been keeping me busy. Rick Morones and Alex Draghici are doing a fantastic job getting me fights. I appreciate everyone on my team for all their hard work, including my manager Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing. Together I have a solid team behind me and I’m ready to put on another great performance in front of my family and friends.”

Coronado, who resides in Del Rio, TX, will be making his third appearance of 2019. The 23-year old is coming off a unanimous decision victory, where he went the distance for the first time in his career. Coronado will face Raul Hinojosa, who will be making his pro debut.

“I’m looking to come out strong from the opening round,” said Coronado. “I don’t know much about my opponent except that he’s making his pro debut. I’m going to let my hands go and see what transpires from there. I know I have the proper skills to adjust if I have to. In addition, I’m looking to steel the show with a powerful knockout.”

“Both Medina and Coronado have the talent to go far in this sport,” said Greg Hannely, president of Prince Ranch Boxing, who manages both fighters. “These kids work very hard and I’m happy to see they are staying busy. I want them to finish 2019 with strong performances. Next year we will step up in competition and look to capture a regional belt.”

“We have another great show in place here in San Antonio and the Event Center,” said Rick Morones, of TMB & PRB Entertainment. “Medina and Coronado are fan favorites because they always come to fight and put on a show. Boxing in San Antonio is alive and well. I’m expecting another sold out show so fans should get their tickets now as we only have a small amount of tickets left.”

“With each show we promote the crowds are getting bigger and bigger,” said Alex Draghici, of TMB & PRB Entertainment. “Medina brings a big fan base, as does Coronado. Both bring a lot excitement to the ring. We are gaining momentum and this Saturday will be another great event.”

“Return of The Champ” takes place at the San Antonio Event Center on November 16, 2019. Tickets priced $30 General Admission, $90 Ringside, $900 VIP Tables are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (210) 449- 5599 or (210) 322-9974. The San Antonio Event Center is located at 8111 Meadow Leaf, San Antonio, TX 78227. Doors open at 6:00 PM, first bell at 7:30 PM.

Ray Flores
Thank you very much to the media for joining us wherever you are around the world. We are very excited for next Saturday November 23 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena for the highly anticipated rematch between boxing’s longest reigning Heavyweight Champion “The Bronze Bomber” Deontay Wilder as he puts his WBC Championship on the line once again against the hard hitting Luis “King Kong” Ortiz in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event next Saturday November 23 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

This is a rematch of their epic 2018 battle back in March of last year which saw Ortiz nearly stopping Wilder but then Deontay showed his championship mettle and went ahead and stopped Luis Ortiz in the 10th round. That seventh round and that tenth round are absolutely memorable.

The pay-per-view gets rolling at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. It features a heck of a pay-per-view lineup including Leo Santa Cruz seeking a championship in the fourth division when he battles Miguel Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship. That will be the main co-event.

Tickets for the event are going quickly. It’s promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions. They are on sale now and you can get them at www.mgmgrand.com or www.axs.com.

Now let’s talk about the challenger.

His record, 31 wins, 26 of those by knock out against one defeat. Originally from Camaguey, Cuba now living in Miami. He has actually been training in Las Vegas where the fight will be held next week.

He has reeled off three straight victories since losing and coming up short in the only blemish of his career when he first met Wilder back in 2018. Most recently he picked up a unanimous decision over Christian Hammer back on March 2 at Barclays Center.

He is one of the most avoided fighters in the heavyweight division. Now one thing about Luis Ortiz he is also a very proud family man. His daughter Lismercedes actually has a painful skin condition which results in painful skin blistering and Ortiz has worked quite a bit and done a wonderful job to raise awareness for EB.

Ladies and gentlemen I want to introduce to you Luis “King Kong Ortiz”, Luis, opening comments.

Luis Ortiz
Thank you very much for having me and thank you very much for everyone who is tuned in and, yes, I’m ready for November 23.

Q
Herman while you were in corner watching what was unfolding in that seventh round, could you explain it to me or tell me what were you seeing that round that got Luis so close to the stoppage win. What was working for him and what were you seeing?

Herman Caicedo
It was a combination of a few things but I think primarily it was just him getting settled in to the fight figuring out the style a little bit, he was boxing, he was just getting to his groove as he does, when he does that he is very dangerous and that’s pretty much it. After that, once he made the connection and he hurt him, then I felt like everyone else, he was the new Heavyweight Champion.

Q
Luis do you believe that this is your final chance at winning a Heavyweight title?

L. Ortiz
No. Absolutely not. I’m going to win the title so no need for another opportunity. I will be the champion.

Q
Do you still look back at that first fight for what you could do better?

L. Ortiz
No. No. Other than just being in better shape, no. I don’t necessarily see anything that could have been done differently on my part. I think that some of the things that Wilder did and the antics that Wilder does could be dealt with differently this time around, the illegal things.

Blows that he throws with the inside of his fists, punching down from the top of the head down and all kinds of craziness that he does, which makes it very difficult to get settled in any fight and quite frankly should be illegal and borderline criminal.

Q
Does it feel easier to prepare for it this time around?

L. Ortiz
You absolutely never know what Wilder is going to do as far as how he approaches his fights. But one thing for sure is that both mentally and physically I’m at my best and prepared. So he can bring whatever he is going to bring. No problem.

Q
What did you feel was working best for Luis at that moment in the seventh round?

H. Caicedo
Well, I think the best thing that was going our way was him boxing — getting behind a good jab, and just beating him to the punch and not allowing Wilder to just get crazy with his antics and come out swinging wailing away. So I think just being a little bit better on the technical side and on the basics.

But again like Luis just said it’s very difficult with him sometimes because he’ll spin around and hit you with a back fist so it’s like you never know what could happen.

Q
Are you confident that in the rematch that Luis can get into position to be in that same situation where he has Deontay in big trouble like that and this time he will be able to finish him off?

H. Caicedo
I’m very confident that Luis is going to be in that same spot or different but in the same scenario and actually be able now to finish job.

He has dedicated 12 weeks in Las Vegas to a camp and he has really given everything that he obviously couldn’t the first time around. So at the end of the day it’s 1000% he will be there. He is a much superior boxer, fighter, thinker and has the experience.

Wilder has the experience over 10 defenses but Luis has experience over a history of fighting since he was 10 years old. So that’s going to make all the difference when it comes down to all things being equal in condition.

Q
Luis could you also think back to round 7 and from your point of view how close did you think you were from a knockout?

L. Ortiz
As soon as I made the connection and hurt him and I saw him where he was and I knew I was going to finish him and that the fight was over basically. I haven’t had any other situation like that where I hadn’t gotten a knockout in a scenario like that. So it’s just a matter of putting some punches together and winning this fight.

I don’t really remember which punch it was. It’s just like a flash it was probably the right hook that did the damage but after that I can’t remember what was doing more damage or not.

Q
Did you feel like the ref could have or should have stopped the fight at that moment?

L. Ortiz
I have no quarrels with the referee. At that time he was an eight time defending world champion and he should have been given the opportunity to defend himself and obviously fight and I felt like the referee probably did the right thing.

Q
Herman was it just your decision to setup headquarters in Las Vegas as opposed to training out of your facility in Miami?

H. Caicedo
It was really a team decision. We were mulling it over for some time before we found out 100% that the fight was on. We considered California and a few other places.

Luis is definitely a family man and he is here and there and he is at the kid’s events and school events and plays and whatever it takes. He is there. And at the end of the day that’s not going to really drive and mix well with winning a championship and absolutely being at his very best.

So it was an easy decision. It was just a matter of where we were coming.

Q
Was it a concentrated decision to be in better shape than the first fight and do you anticipate being around the same weight or do you believe you’ll be lighter for the rematch?

L. Ortiz
Absolutely. It’s never been about weight loss. I have always fought around the same weight but I’m definitely leaning out fat and transferring to muscle. So it was a conscious decision with everybody and it’s been a very productive 10 – 11 weeks here so far.

Q
How does your new strength and conditioning coach help you heading into this super fight?

L. Ortiz
Coach Larry Wade has brought professionalism to the camp that fits right in with what we already do as far as schedules and professionalism. I got a new look at some of the stuff that’s being done with fighters. So it was a nice change and obviously sometimes it can be the same thing but just approached differently and the body will react better and that’s what it was. I’m very happy with coach Wade.

Q
What has been the most unique training method that’s been implemented in this particular training camp?

L. Ortiz
There have been a few things obviously. If I had to pick one thing, it’s been the pool work.

Q
How will being away from his family impact the training and preparation for this fight?

L. Ortiz
It will help 1000% in the discipline and sacrifice for the fight. I miss my family so it’s more fuel on a daily basis to to be heavyweight champion.

Q
Is this fight more of a personal mission for you to beat Deontay or is it more so simply avenging the loss? Is that more of a greater motivator for you for this fight?

L. Ortiz
I have absolutely nothing personal towards Deontay. I respect him as a man, father, human being and that’s got nothing to do with nothing. It’s all about being a world champion, coronating myself that night on the 23rd, achieving my goal since I was 10 years old.

Q
Does Andy Ruiz’s win serves as a special inspiration or motivation for Luis for this fight?

L. Ortiz
He is very happy that Ruiz won the fight. It was his destiny that night to do so and no one is taking that from him and I’m very proud of him and obviously any Latin fighter that has any kind of prosperity in the sport is great for sure.

Q
Do you think Andy will beat Joshua again and do you foresee maybe a title unification between two Latin Heavyweight Champions?

L. Ortiz
I would be ecstatic to have a unification battle period and even more ecstatic if it were between two Latin fighters. As far as Ruiz winning or not, I’m not 100% sure on which way it goes but I would like to see him come out the victor once again.

R. Flores
All right. Thank you very much to Luis Ortiz, Herman Caicedo, thank you very much gentlemen. We look forward to seeing you next week during fight week in Las Vegas – Luis Ortiz challenging Deontay Wilder for the WBC Heavyweight Championship of the World next Saturday November 23 live on FOX Sport PBC Pay-Per-View. A big night of live action.

Now we get set for the champion as we go ahead and look at a man who has a record of 41 wins and no losses, one draw, 40 wins coming by way of knockout. He actually earned his Bronze Bomber nickname when he won a Bronze medal for the United States at the 2008 Olympic Games.

He is boxing’s longest reigning Heavyweight World Champion having held his championship since January 2015. He will be making the 10th defense of his championship. Now if he is successful next Saturday November 23 he will join the likes of Joe Louis. Muhammad Ali, Larry Holmes, Tommy Burns, the Klitschko Brothers as those with 10 or more consecutive successful title defenses.

He is a rising star out of the ring as he was ranked 34 on ESPN’s World Fame 100 list, the top spot for any boxer. He is an active champion as this will be the third title defense in his last 11 months.

Ladies and gentlemen with a knockout percentage of 95% please welcome the Bronze Bomber Deontay Wilder. Deontay, do you have opening thoughts?

Deontay Wilder
What’s going on? What can I say? November the 23rd is going to be an amazing, amazing, amazing time for boxing and boxing fans. Me and Luiz Ortiz, the first fight is self-explanatory. It was an amazing fight. It was a thrilling fight.

It was a fight that kept everyone on the edge of their seats from the first round through the 10th round. No one knew what was going to happen until it happened and here we are again. The same effect, the same momentum, the same game plan coming in for us. I’m sure it’s the same for him. He wants to be the first Cuban Heavyweight Champion of the World and – I still want to keep my title.

This is what it’s all about in the Heavyweight Division. The big boys. It’s the heavy hitters where one hit can end everything no matter how hard a person has worked, no matter how many weeks, how many moths. One fight, one night, one blow can end it all. And we already know I’m the hardest hitter, probably in boxing history period.

I’m coming to keep my title. November 23 will be a great moment and I can’t wait.

Q
What was your thought process of wanting to grant Luis Ortiz a rematch?

D. Wilder
There were several reasons. One, he is one of the best in the world. No one has dared to give Ortiz the opportunity even after I defeated him the first time.

Most of the times when you win, especially when you knock him out, other guys are willing to fight him. They see weaknesses. They see kinks in his armor. But Ortiz’s situation in this case, none of these guys still they didn’t want to fight him then and they don’t want to fight him now.

So I wanted to give him an opportunity again to prove all doubt about our first fight that we had/

Secondly, Ortiz has a family. I grew a great bond with Ortiz the first time with his child and my child, as she was born with a disorder as well. So I know personally how hard it is and how much it takes to take care of a child with a disorder. It takes a lot of money and it takes a lot of care and I grew a great bond with him.

So I have seen him as one of the top guys in the heavyweight division and I want to bless him. You need money to support them and I wanted to bless him again for not only for him being a great warrior, one of the best in the world, but also for his family. I wanted to bless his family and put him on pay-per-view.

This might be his last at 40 years old. Coming in we all know when you fight Deontay Wilder I take something from you. I take years from your life. And that is me going to him again to get some more. You already got some these sweet potatoes and now he’s coming back for seconds. And I’m ready to fill his mouth full with it.

Q
What have you taken from that Joshua vs. Ruiz fight to make sure you avoid hitting those pitfalls next Saturday?

D. Wilder
So me and Anthony Joshua, we have different mindsets. My mindset is very strong. It’s way stronger than him. I spoke about this before and Joshua, he called it upon himself. He knew he was going to lose one day. He had spoken about it.

He had spoken it to the universe and even when it was time for it to happen, look, he gave his belts over to Ruiz. He literally transported his belts to this man. His energy gave his belts to this man.

My mindset is different. I’m a totally different king. I’m a totally different beast. I’m the best in the world and I prove it each and every time I go in the ring.

I’m not worried about going in and making any mistakes and stuff and if I do make any mistake in the ring, rest assured I will correct it as the fight goes on. I see this fight going one way and that’s Deontay Wilder knocking out Luis Ortiz point blank and period. You know it, he knows it, I know it.

I know when we were in the ring the first time he hit me with everything in the kitchen sink, stuff that he knows that he usually hits opponents with and they go down. But I’m a different beast and with that being said I have got a lot of things that I have got to do. I’m fighting for one champion. One face. One name. That’s the unification and nothing is going to get in my way of that. Nobody.

Q
Did you watch anything with Tyson Fury in WWE and if you did what did you think of Tyson’s performances?

D. Wilder
I didn’t. I didn’t even get a chance to see it. I wish I actually got a chance to see it. I would have loved to see how he transformed from boxing to WWE. Although WWE is more entertainment as far as acting things out and boxing is more serious. We risk our lives for sure.

But it would have been refreshing just to see how he does. I don’t hold grudges and I don’t have ill will towards any fighter. No fighter at all because I’m a fighter myself and I understand what we go through as fighters.

If any fighters have the opportunity to do other great things outside of the boxing ring I’m all for it because most fighters, they have been doing it for so many years, especially the ones they have been doing it since they were kids. They feel like this is all they have got. This is all they know how to do.

If all you know how to do is fight and let somebody dictate your career, then I feel sorry for you. The ones that know how to get out and go get another income or another resource, I congratulate you. That’s how I feel with that. I didn’t get to see it but hopefully I see a rerun or something and see how he did.

Q
Does that nice round number of 10 title defenses mean anything to you?

D. Wilder
It’s definitely not easy to do. It’s a great accomplishment for myself and for my career. It’s definitely going to carry with me as I rack up these numbers. But to be honest at the end of the day it’s just what it is. It’s a number.

It’s a great honor to be able to say this is my tenth title defense that I’m about to have, especially when many thought I was never going to be the heavyweight champion. And here I am 10. 10. 10 title defenses out of 41 fights and 40 have been knockouts.

It’s amazing to be at this point in time and right now all I could do at this point in time for my career is just rack up numbers.

I have always fought for a legend’s legacy and I’m still fighting to this day for that. I just want to be the best in the world. I want to be the best that has ever done it.

When people think about boxing I want them to say Deontay Wilder and I’m doing everything in my power and I have done everything in my power to try to bring it to be and I’m still doing it right now to be the best. And if numbers are what makes you standout. If people look at numbers and see that’s what makes you standout, then so be it.

But not only do I want the numbers to standout for me, I want my actions to speak as well too because actions speak louder than words any day and that’s what it means to me.

Q
How did you survive that seventh round and what did that teach you about yourself when you are in that kind of crisis?

D. Wilder
The seventh round was an amazing time for me. It allowed me to see what I’m really made of. It allowed the world to see what type of champion and a true champion that they have in America and he has been here.

With that seventh round being under the conditions that I was under, I was very proud of myself to be able to handle those situations. To be able to go into the fire like that for one, plus just taking the fight going in to the fire like that with a flu. You know proper protocol is to cancel that and wait to a later date until you are healthy.

But being me, I’m a hard headed. I always do things that many boxers don’t do and I think that’s part of wanting my legacy to be different from the rest. I don’t want the same old, I want to be different. That’s why I do the things that I do.

Q
How did you view what happened in the seventh round and did you think you had control of the fight after you scored your first knockdown?

D. Wilder
I never go there and get ahead of myself. I’m always taking care. You want to be honest, in the fifth round the bell saved him.

Q
I would say the bell saved you in the seventh round, didn’t it?

D. Wilder
Well I wouldn’t say so because he still had 40 seconds. How many seconds did I have in the fifth round to finish him off? He had 40 seconds and he couldn’t do it. He threw everything, everything. If you know anything about a flu it makes you weak mentally, physically, emotionally and he couldn’t get me out. He threw everything.

Q
What do you remember about that round when he was throwing and what was going through your mind as he has you up against the corner post?

D. Wilder
Yes. I remember getting buzzed. How it first happened is we threw a punch together but he landed before me and that’s what buzzed me the first time but it was like a slight buzz the first time. And then I tried to bluff it but I didn’t bluff it.

When I bluffed it I wasn’t separating myself from him. I didn’t have enough distance apart from him. I was polling my jab just to let him know I’m still here, I’m active to bluff from that slight buzz that happened.

He was an experienced fighter and he caught on that I was buzzed and definitely he came again with the right hand and then that’s when it became a severe buzz. I was never hurt.

I think people use hurt too much. They throw that round too much because they don’t understand the difference between buzzed and hurt. I advise anybody if you are in boxing and you want to talk about boxing, experience some of things that we go through. Go in the ring, get hit and see what it feels like to get buzzed or maybe even get knocked out.

But I understood everything that was going on with me. I was coaching myself internally my inner voice was telling myself to keep going. Make sure the referee sees you. Make sure you just keep hitting him.

I didn’t want to make any punch effective because I didn’t want to waste any unnecessary energy because I wanted to be able to recover. So I didn’t want to use that much energy and so that’s why I hit him anywhere I could no matter where it was so that the referee could understand that I’m very active. I’m aware and I can still fight.

I don’t think I got enough credit for that. That’s where the commentaries that were commentating the fight, they didn’t understand what I was doing, how I was closing in the perimeter on him. I didn’t give him enough space where he could release out enough punches. I stayed close to him in a peer to peer. I didn’t get no credit for the intellect that I had in the ring coming around in the seventh round.

So I knew what I was doing and when the bell rung as you can see I knew exactly where I was. I went right back to my corner and I still was talking shit going back there too.

Q
What is your response to Ortiz saying that some of what you do is possibly illegal or beyond the rules?

D. Wilder
You know I have never heard of that so I think that he is being sarcastic. Only thing that’s criminal is me hitting people with the right hand and almost killing them. That’s the only thing I can go with.

As far as in the ring I don’t know what can be criticized. I would love to know myself to be honest.

I want to know that because if it’s something to tear me down or something like that, then that will make me even more motivated towards Ortiz if he’s trying to try to tear me down after I have blessed him twice.

I would love to know what he meant by that. That could be good for raising my blood and make me want to even more hurt him more than what I want to do now.

So he need to clarify that for me before I take it the wrong way. We know when I get mad, it’s over with. It’s over with. So right now I’m mutual with him. I’m very respectful. He said thank God for me, I blessed him a second time. A second time. A second time ladies and gentlemen, when I didn’t have to.

So I need that clarified or I’m going to take this the wrong way and I’m really going to want to beat him down.

Q
When you say that you want to leave no doubt this time, do you believe that getting a win is enough to silence any doubters or does it have to come from another knockout?

D. Wilder
A win is a win whether it’s ugly, pretty or in-between. A win is a win. I never want to leave the ring without a man being knocked out. I knock you out. That’s the rules that I play with in this boxing industry. I don’t play around with no one. I don’t act like I play around with you and everything I say I mean.

I make it loud and clear. I meant it what I said, I say it loud and clear so there is no miscommunications between my language and the words that I chose to use. I’m a knockout artist. That’s what I plan to do, to knock you out. That’s plain and simple.

There are no other better words that can explain that. I come to knock you out point blank, period. I don’t care who you with, where you are from or what you’ve got going on at that time of your life. You sign the contract. You step in the ring with me now you’re getting blessed.

Q
Did you think that you two might have to run it all the way back again or did you think that that part of your career against Luis Ortiz was over?

D. Wilder
After that fight I felt like I wanted to run it back. It was such a great fight, I definitely wanted to run that one back with him. There was a moment in time where I felt like there was a part of me proving myself as a heavyweight champion.

Everybody has got their own different opponents that they look and say okay, I believe him. He is the real deal. I think with Ortiz it opened up a lot of people’s eyes. I know for a fact it opened up a lot of people’s eyes and it allowed a lot of the haters or the doubters I will say, it silenced the doubters and it made them a big fan of mine.

Now there is an uproar about Deontay Wilder not only because of the Ortiz fight but after my actions of what I have done after that and here we are again running back around with Ortiz too.

I always wanted to fight him again because I feel like it would be good for boxing. It will be great for pay-per-view because of what we did the first time.

Q
If given the chance at whatever point in time whether it be during your career or after your boxing career is done, given the opportunity to go to WWE and kind of do the same thing that Tyson Fury did for the past month, would you take it?

D. Wilder
WWE was a thing that we years ago talked about as far as promotion and different things and that’s the reason why he is doing it for promotion. He is trying to get his name bigger in America and that’s a good route to take because WWE has millions upon millions of followers that look at it.

So that was a good approach for him trying to build his name especially after coming from his Vegas shows and their ticket sale. The only reason he sold the first time was because he was coming to have a fight with me.

So now he is trying to find some type of way to market himself even more before the rematch or the fight. We are going to tell the difference when I fight in Vegas, you are going to see the difference of what I do and what he did and we will know for sure who sold the pay-per-view and I guarantee you right now it’s going to be me.

But if the opportunity came by at this point in time who knows. It all depends on what I have got going on at the moment in time or when the opportunity presents itself what the scale will be looking like.

My stardom has grown tremendously everywhere. I have got multiples of countries wanting to host me to their country. I’m popular right now. Life is great and I just want to continue to add to that.

I can’t say no and I can’t say yes. You know, I’m going to keep that bridge open. You never want to burn bridges because you may never know when you may need to cross them again. So that bridge is still open.

R. Flores
Do you have any final comments Deontay before we get to Las Vegas next week ahead of your championship defense?

D. Wilder
I just want to tell all the fans of boxing and fans that are going to tune in to boxing, I just want to say thank you so much for your support. Thank you so much for your time and your willingness to understand this sport. It’s a brutal sport and I always say it all the time, this is not a gentleman sport for me.

It may be for others, but for me we are not asking each other to hit each other in the head. We’re doing it on will because we are getting paid to do so. We have a job that we have to do. You might as well call us hit men because that’s what we do.

We’ve got a contract to beat somebody up and we sign it and we go in and we have got a name on the paper and there is a price on his head and I’m going to do my job well like I always do.

So I appreciate you guys so much. The last fight with Ortiz it was amazing fight. It was an exciting fight. You didn’t know who was going to win and this is the fight that you want to be looking at. This is the fight that you want to tune into and pay your money.

If you can’t be there, click that pay-per-view button. You want to see a fight where you don’t know what’s going to happen but you know that at point in time something is going to happen, Wilder vs. Ortiz is the fight to see.

I can’t wait to perform for you guys as I always do. I can’t wait until you guys witness that you have a bad man in Deontay Wilder in America and we aren’t going anywhere.

Again, thank you guys for your love. Thank you guys for your time, and thank you for your money. I love you. God bless and I can’t wait. BombZquad!

#

ABOUT WILDER VS. ORTIZ II
Wilder vs. Ortiz II will see boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Saturday, November 23 in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View action live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz seeks a title in another division when he takes on Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship in the co-main event.

Pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated rising star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his WBA Super Bantamweight Title against former champion Julio Ceja while undefeated Mexican power-puncher Luis Nery battles Puerto Rico’s Emmanuel Rodríguez in a matchup of former bantamweight champions.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (November 13, 2019) – Prince Ranch Boxing’s undefeated cruiserweight prospect, Muhsin “Silent Killer” Cason (5-0, 3KOs), makes his way back to the ring this Saturday, November 16, 2019, against Montez Brown (8-1, 6KO), as the two power-punchers will collide at the La Fontaine Bleue in Glen Burnie, Maryland. The 6-round main event bout is being promoted by Shabazz Brotherz Boxing.

Cason, who is currently riding a three-fight knockout streak, is looking to make it four, as he returns to the cruiserweight division. He’ll be facing his toughest opponent to date against Brown.

“This is a big step up fight for me and I’m looking forward to the challenge,” said Cason, who is managed by Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing. “What’s important is that I put on a great performance. I want people to be excited seeing me fight. With constantly exciting and well-rounded performances, I know I can get to the next level in the sport.”

Montez Brown is coming off the first loss of his career and is looking to make a statement against Cason, who is not looking past him. Cason, who is trained by his brother, former two-time heavyweight world champion, Hasim Rahman, is feeling good going into this fight.

“I have worked very hard in this camp, and I feel I am the best version of myself,” Cason continued. “Brown is a tough opponent, one who offers different challenges than my last few opponents, so I am not looking past him.”

“Cason is a well-coached, terrific fighter, who has all the tools needed to be a world champion.” said manager Greg Hannely. “Cason wants the best fights available and that is what we are looking to provide for him.”

“My brother has learned a lot in the past year, and this is a chance for him to show how hard he has been training in the gym,” said former two-time heavyweight world champion and older brother Hasim Rahman, who also serves as a Prince Ranch Boxing advisor. “We took training camp to California and got some really good work. Muhsin is ready to go!”

London, UK (13 November 2019) Nicaraguan Nightmares Francisco and Fonseca Freddie bowl into London’s East End this Saturday night seeking to cause the kind of carnage not seen since the Kray twins, Ron and Reg, ruled the manor with their own iron fists back in the 60s. The Fonseca bros descend on the hallowed York Hall, Bethnal Green – just a check left hook from the twins’ family home in Vallance Road – intent on cutting down home hopes Alex Dilmaghani and John Joe Nevin in a brace of world grade super-featherweight shoot-outs that will be screened live and exclusive in the U.K on free-to-air Channel Five. Fransisco takes on Dilmaghani for the Vacant IBO World Super-Featherweight title, while Freddy faces Irish star Nevin for the Vacant WBA International Super-Featherweight title. Just like the Krays, the Brothers Fonseca are a study of menace and violence. Between them, they boast 37 early knockouts in 60 starts combined so compassion is likely to be in short supply when they land at the home of London boxing this Saturday night. Prior to terrorizing London’s East End in the 60s, Ron and Reg proved pretty handy with their dukes themselves. Introduced to the Noble Art by maternal grandfather Jimmy ‘Cannonball’ Lee, both fought on the fairground booths – once famously against each other – and both were decent amateurs. Reg, older by 10 minutes, even netted a London schoolboy title. In 1951, as 17 year olds, they turned pro together on a promotion in Mile End and were to fight on the same bill on six occasions. Lightweight Reg, easily the more skilled, won seven straight while welter Ron lost twice in six – once by DQ(!) – before their progress was scuppered by national service. Later their combative instincts brought fame and fortune but, alas, not inside the prize ring! But the reality is that, as pugilists, the twins weren’t a patch on the lethal Latinos who claim over 50 pro wins and have both operated at top world level. Twenty seven year old Freddie, elder by two years, gave white hot US talent ‘Jo Jo’ Diaz a hard night in a WBA Gold title fight this May, while Francisco has twice acquitted himself with credit in IBF world title fights, losing to the formidable US duo of Gervonta Davis and Tevin Farmer. Both Fonsecas are young enough and tough enough to return to the highest stage. “On November 16th, you’ll see the toughest brothers ever to fight in London,” claimed Francisco. “This ‘East End’ might be rough but it’s hardly the barrios of Managua! Forget these gangsters, our weapons are our fists and our records inside the ring proves we know how to use them. Destructively! Dilmaghani doesn’t know what’s coming his way.” Freddy added, “Nevin and Dilmaghani are talented fighters, for sure, but they’re nowhere near our experience and they’ve nothing close to our power. They’re going to be eliminated, painfully, before their own fans. We don’t mess about, we’re not here to play. Believe me, the judges won’t be needed.” Promoted by Mick Hennessy in association with Infinitum, Channel 5 and Priority Promotions, Dilmaghani v Fonseca will be televised exclusively live in the UK on free-to-air Channel 5 and 5Spike. Headline attraction on the card features Alex Dilmaghani versus Francisco Fonseca for the Vacant IBO Super-Featherweight Championship. Chief support sees an exciting clash between Irish star John Joe Nevin v Freddy Fonseca for the WBA International Super-Featherweight Championship. A packed and top quality undercard also features: Fast rising Sevenoaks middleweight talent Michael Hennessy Jnr; Stockwell welterweight Samuel Antwi; Welsh super-featherweight Rhys Edwards; Chelsea Lightweight Connor Marsden; two London based Romanians: super-welterweight Flavius Biea and heavyweight Lucian Atani; Basildon super-lightweight Lewis Smith; Islington middleweight Billy Underwood; Luton super-lightweight Jahid Munim and Islington featherweight Alizara Ghadiri. Tickets are available from MyFightTickets: https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-york-hall

BROOKLYN (November 13, 2019) – Former world champions and top-rated contenders clash when the Philippines’ Marlon Tapales and Japan’s Ryosuke Iwasa go toe-to-toe for the Interim IBF Super Bantamweight Title on Saturday, December 7 live on SHOWTIME from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo defending his title against highly-ranked contender Dennis Hogan. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features middleweight star Chris Eubank, Jr. and top contender Matt Korobov squaring off in the co-main event for the Interim WBA Middleweight Title.

The non-televised undercard will feature a clash between once-beaten middleweight contenders as Immanuwel Aleem (18-1-2, 11 KOs) takes on Ronald Ellis (16-1-2, 11 KOs) in a 10-round fight, unbeaten Ghanaian bantamweight Duke Micah (23-0, 19 KOs) in a 10-round duel against the Philippines’ Joseph Ambo (9-2-1, 6 KOs) and Australia’s Louisa Hawton (9-2, 5 KOs) battling Los Angeles-native Lorraine Villalobos (4-2, 2 KOs) for the Interim WBC Strawweight Championship.

Rounding out the lineup is Harlem’s Arnold González (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round welterweight fight, the pro debut of heavyweight Steven Torres in a four-round showdown against Mexico’s Daniel Franco (2-2, 2 KOs), plus a pair of Dallas-natives in action as unbeaten super middleweight Burley Brooks (4-0, 4 KOs) steps in for a six-round attraction while Amon Rashidi (7-1, 5 KOs) competes in a six-round bout.

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.

Fighting out of Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte, Philippines, Tapales (33-2, 16 KOs) captured a bantamweight world title in 2016 with a comeback knockout victory over Panya Uthok while down on the scorecards. The 27-year-old has fought professionally since 2008, and rides a 12-fight winning streak into this bout. This will be his third consecutive appearance in the U.S. after scoring knockout victories over Fernando Vargas and Roberto Castañeda so far this year.

The 29-year-old Iwasa (26-3, 16 KOs) made his U.S debut in February with a technical decision victory over veteran contender César Juárez, rebounding from losing his 122-pound title to T.J. Doheny last year. Fighting out of Kashiwa, Japan, Iwasa won the title in 2017 by stopping Yukinori Oguni and defended it successfully against Ernesto Saulong. Iwasa enters December 7 the winner of seven of his last eight fights.

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

VENTURA, CALIF. (Nov. 13, 2019): WBA Super Featherweight World Champion
Andrew “El Chango” Cancio (21-4-2, 16 KOs) hosted a media workout yesterday
at KnuckleHeadz Boxing in Ventura, Calif. ahead of his 12-round title defense against Rene “Gemelo” Alvarado (31-8, 20 KOs). The fight will place Saturday, Nov. 23 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Below is what the champion had to say at his workout:

ANDREW CANCIO, WBA Super Featherweight World Champion:

On the Changes Cancio Has Made Since His First Encounter with Alvarado:

“There have been changes in my training, my trainers and my confidence. Before I was kind of timid with my head movement and my jab. I feel a lot better throwing combinations now. My sparring partners know that when I’m done throwing a combination, they can expect a few more punches right after. They always say, ‘man I thought you were done with the combination and here I am getting caught again.'”

“I love the combinations my coaches are working on with me, and I feel that’s what is going to be the difference in this fight. I think it’s going to be easier for me just because the first time we faced off I would only throw one or two punches at a time. Now it’s going to be four or six punches at a time. I’m also using my jab and head movement more now. I’m also stopping my opponents now.”

“Darden [Zenunaj] was the only one I didn’t stop in the past four fights. Darden was game and I threw a lot of punches, a lot of combinations. I feel like it intimidates them, and it throws them off their rhythm. I’ve been learning more and more as each day goes by in the gym. I’m getting more accustomed to my coach’s styles and their philosophies on how to do things, and I think Rene is going to see that difference.”

“I like throwing body shots. My combinations include body shots, and I think that’s going to be the key. It was the key with Alberto Machado, and think it’s going to be the key to beating Rene Alvarado. He already knows that I hit hard. He felt it our first fight. I think psychologically, he saw how I destroyed Machado. He shouldn’t expect any less from me on fight night.”

On Leo Santa Cruz fighting for the WBA Super Featherweight Super World Title:

“I think it’s a bunch of B.S. I got the short end of the stick once again. I’m not a big name to a lot of people like Leo Santa Cruz is. I feel like that’s why they did it. Machado, his belt got taken away because he was super champion and they gave it to Gervonta “Tank” Davis, so if I come out victorious Nov. 23 and if Leo comes out victorious Nov. 23, that’s a fight I definitely want to make. I feel like I’m the bigger, stronger 130-pound guy. I feel like his style and my style will clash for a good fight, but I think he’s going to realize the difference at 130 pounds.”

On Dealing with His Full-Time Job and Working:

They [Southern California Gas Company] are helping me out more now as a champion. I don’t have any more time on my book to take days off, but you can take days off without pay, though It’s up to the supervisor’s discretion. They help me out in that aspect. Like today I have media workout. I was going to go in for four hours, but I knew it was going to be very tiring to go out there and drive and drive back over here. I didn’t want to be late, so they help me out in that aspect, but I still have to work like everyone else.

On Being an Inspiration to Those Who Want to Succeed:

“I’m doing what I’ve always wanted to do, so that’s how I’m able to do all of this. My grandma told me it’s not going to be easy. She would say that it’s not impossible, and it’s true. I’m still doing it till this day. I’m doing this because I love this. I want people to know that if you put your mind to it, you can do anything.”

Cancio vs. Alvarado II is a 12-round fight for the WBA Super Featherweight World Title presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 23 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN. The title defense is one of several highlights this fight season on DAZN – an entire fall featuring boxing’s biggest matchups in one of the best schedules in boxing history.

Tickets for the event are on sale and are priced at $35, $45 and $55. Tickets
will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and DAZN.com.
Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy and https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CancioAlvarado2.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying
and pasting the link http://bit.ly/CancioAlvarado2 into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

LAS VEGAS (November 13, 2019) – Unbeaten WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder broke down the top three knockouts of his illustrious title run ahead of his highly anticipated rematch against Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz taking place Saturday, November 23 in the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View main event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Watch the full video of Wilder discussing his top knockouts HERE via the Premier Boxing Champions YouTube page.

Wilder first examined his explosive ninth-round knockout of Artur Szpilka, which took place in January 2016 as Wilder successfully made his third title defense.

“It was amazing because Szpilka had a lot of Polish fans there and it was incredible to hear the roar,” said Wilder. “He was a tricky southpaw, but I ended up figuring him out and drawing him into the corner. Then bam! It was good night.”

Boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight champion then reviewed his November 2017 destruction of former champion Bermane Stiverne. Wilder stopped Stiverne in the rematch after Stiverne became the first fighter to go the distance against Wilder when he lost the title to him in 2015.

“This was the guy who I had taken the title from,” said Wilder. “I told him that I knew him like the back of my hand. In that fight, I wasn’t myself. I was possessed. Something had come over me. I remember the referee ended up on my back and I was carrying him like a cape that night.”

Finally, Wilder highlighted his latest triumph, a first round dismantling of Dominic Breazeale with a monster right hand that immediately went viral and gave the champion his ninth consecutive successful title defense.

“If you didn’t see that fight, go back and look at it,” said Wilder. “I took his soul out of him. I’ll never forget that knockout.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions, TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.mgmgrand.com or www.axs.com.

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ABOUT WILDER VS. ORTIZ II
Wilder vs. Ortiz II will see boxing’s longest reigning heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder defending his WBC title in a rematch against once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong” Ortiz Saturday, November 23 in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View action live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Three-division champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz seeks a title in another division when he takes on Miguel “El Michoacan” Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship in the co-main event.

Pay-per-view action begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features undefeated rising star Brandon “The Heartbreaker” Figueroa making the first defense of his WBA Super Bantamweight Title against former champion Julio Ceja while undefeated Mexican power-puncher Luis Nery battles Puerto Rico’s Emmanuel Rodríguez in a matchup of former bantamweight champions.

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

Tickets for the Super-Middleweight blockbuster between Daniel Jacobs and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, Arizona on Friday December 20 go on pre-sale at 10am MST on Wednesday November 12.

Jacobs (35-3 29 KOs) moves up to Super-Middleweight in a bid to become a two-weight World ruler having twice been king at 160lbs. Two-weight champion is the same goal for Chavez Jr (51-3-1 33 KOs) too and that journey starts in the same venue his legendary father closed the book on his storied career in September 2005.

Tickets for the event start at $25 (plus booking fee) and go on pre-sale at 10am MST at https://www1.ticketmaster.com/event/19005766D115614C with the codes ‘JACOBS’, ‘CHAVEZ’ and ‘MBUSA’.

Tickets go on general sale at 10am MST on Thursday November 13 at https://www1.ticketmaster.com/event/19005766D115614C

An announcement on the undercard will be made next week.

HOUSTON, TX–Roberson Sports Management has announced the signing of Two more promising prospects in super lightweight Divante Jones and cruiserweight Garreth Payton.

Divante ‘The Dominator’ Jones started boxing at the age of seven after getting in to a fight after school on the school bus. “When he got home I told my dad what happened. my dad paused for a moment and asked me if he was alright,” said Jones. It was at that time Divante told his dad he was fine, but he wanted to learn how to box. Divante didn’t fight in school after that day, but instead he decided to learn how to box and use his talent in the boxing ring.

Boxing is a physical and mental sport, explains Divante. “I started following the bent in my family. My father and trainer, Albert Jones, had a very decorated amateur and professional boxing career. Additionally, my uncles and great uncles were all very successful boxing athletes. To be the best you have to become a student of the game of boxing ~ that was my goal.”

Divante’s amateur record was 83 wins, and 28 losses. Winning three national championships, six regional championships and 10 state championships while winning the Most Outstanding Boxer twice.

He decided to turn pro after the 2012 Olympic Trials, where he lost 21-20. After getting tired of the politics in amateur boxing, he decided the next best thing was for him to turn pro. As a professional boxer his current record is 9 wins 2 losses with 7 knockouts. “My ambition in is to be the greatest and successful pound for pound boxer of all time. I have
been told my style is similar to that of Roy Jones, Jr. and Floyd Mayweather, Jr.”

“I consider it a privilege and an honor to be compared to them. My ultimate goal is to become the greatest most successful, pound for pound boxer of all time. I don’t have any fear at all, because.”

In the future, Divante would like to continue inspiring youth to use their talents and abilities to make a positive impact in their community. As a mentor, he makes public appearances and speaks to youth about boxing and what it done for him.

Garreth Payton started boxing in 2012. He has always been a huge fan of the sport of boxing, but he never took time out to really get into it him elf. One day while incarcerated he finally decided to watch some of boxing matches and wasn’t too happy with the performance of Elayn Correctional Center Boxing Team.

Afterwards I said “You know what, I am about to start boxing to show those guys how you represent.”

With an amateur record of 31-3 with 27 KO Payton turned pro after release from incarceration.

Garreth was trained by Sylvester Sullivan, Vernon Jones, Jonny Evans, Charles Rodgers and Clifford Etienne. Etienne fought Mike Tyson.

His current trainer is Varice Copper who has trained Roy Jones. Jr.

Los Angeles, CA (November 12, 2019) Fast-Rising Star Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (16-0, 16 KOs), of Ukraine currently residing in Los Angeles, CA, is now world ranked #14 by the World Boxing Council in the super-welterweight division, it was announced today.

Promoted by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, the 24-year-old Bohachuk is trained by the renowned Abel Sanchez in Big Bear Lake, CA. Most recently, the heavy-handed Bohachuk knocked out contender Tyrone Brunson in the fourth-round headlining ‘Hollywood Fight Nights’ at the AVALON Nightclub on October 27, 2019. With the victory he earned the WBC Continental Americas Super Welterweight Title.

Brunson, holder of the record for the most consecutive first-round knockouts (19) to start as a professional, had previously battled with former world champions Caleb Plant, Kermit Cintron and Tony Harrison in addition to world ranked contenders Dennis Hogan and Carson Jones.

“Serhii has made great strides since turning professional in February 2017. With each fight he’s adding new pieces to his game which make him a more well-rounded, exciting and entertaining fighter and that shows in each performance. While the knockouts are great for the fans, there’s so much more to his technique and skill set,” said Loeffler.

“Abel Sanchez has a long history of training some of boxing’s biggest punches and Serhii fits right in among them. We feel that he is one of the top young stars in boxing and 2020 is going to be a very big year for him. We look forward to providing him the biggest opportunities as he ascends in the super welterweight division.”

Details on Bohachuk’s next fight will be forthcoming.