PHILADELPHIA (October 9, 2019)–Hostilities between Philadelphia has been prominent for years on the gridiron and more recently in the Hockey rink, and on Saturday night, October 19th add boxing to the rivalry as Undefeated Heavyweight Darmani Rock will headline in an eight-round bout against Maurenzo Smith the 3rd installment of The Met Boxing Series on at The Met Philadelphia.

The show is promoted by Hard Hitting Promotions and Live Nation.

The card, which will have several Philadelphia vs. Dallas matchups will fall on the weekend where The professional sports teams of each city will also meet in football and Hockey.

Rock of North Philadelphia, who is promoted by Roc Nation Sports, has a record of 16-0 with 11 knockouts.

The 23 year-old will be making his 3rd start of 2019 and his 6th appearance in his hometown. Included in his 16 victories is a 1st round stoppage over Carlos Cotto (8-1-1). Rock is coming off a 2nd round stoppage over Raymond Ocheng on June 14th in Jacksonville, Florida.

Smith who is originally from Houston, but for the past five-years has called Dallas home, has a record of 21-11-4 with 14 knockouts.

Smith has wins over Robbie McClimans (3-0), Ty Cobb (16-4) and Donald Caples (21-5-1). Smith has also fought world champions Andy Ruiz, Shannon Briggs & Charles Martin.

Smith is coming off a 1st round stoppage over Marvin Hunt in June 15th in Forrest City, Arkansas.

Appearing in an eight-round super middleweight bout will be Derrick Webster (28-2, 14 KOs) of Glassboro, New Jersey taking in Francisco Javier Castro (28-11, 23 KOs) of El Paso, Texas

In six-round bouts

Jeremy Cuevas (11-1, 8 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Rondale Hubbert (13-9-2, 8 KOs) of Fargo, ND in a super lightweight bout.

Gadwin Rosa (10-1, 8 KOs) of Ocala, FL fights Danny Flores (15-17-1, 8 KO) of Mexico City n a super featherweight contest

Christian Tapia (9-0, 8 KOs) of of Camden, New Jersey via Coaamo, PR takes on Jorge Luis Santos Guzman (7-8-1, 2 KOs) of Monterrey, Mexico in super featherweight fight.

in Four-round bouts:

Benny Sinkain (4-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Ferris Golden (1-0) of Findley, OH in a battle of undefeated light heavyweights.

Jan Carlos Rivera (3-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will take on Ricardo Escajeda (4-16-1, 2 KOs) of Monterrey,Mexico in a welterweight fight.

Tahmir Smalls (1-0,1 KO) appears in a welterweight bout.

Tickets start at $25 and are on sale now at www.TheMetPhilly.com or 1-800-745-3000. VIP Premium packages which include box seats, beer and cocktails, food options, private space, access to the Citi Grande Salle and other amenities are also available at 610-784-5438.

The Philly vs. Dallas Night of Live Boxing is the third in an ongoing series at The Met Philadelphia produced by Live Nation Philadelphia in association with Hard Hitting Promotions. The Met Philadelphia once held regular boxing events from 1939 until 1954. Now, newly restored, The Met Philadelphia is again hosting live boxing events.

In addition to the Philadelphia and Dallas football teams competing on Sunday, October 20; the Philadelphia and Dallas hockey teams will tangle in Philadelphia on Saturday, October 19.

The Metropolitan Opera House held regular boxing events from 1939 until 1954. Now, newly restored, The Met Philadelphia will again hold live boxing events.

Originally built in 1908 by opera impresario Oscar Hammerstein, the iconic venue recently completed a massive $56 million restoration that combines spectacular live entertainment with remarkable food and drink options to create an unparalleled guest experience. The venue’s transformation is the crown jewel of North Broad Street’s renaissance.

Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren today held the final press conference ahead of Josh Warrington’s third IBF world featherweight championship defence at First Direct Arena, Leeds on Saturday (October 12), live on BT Sport.

Warrington faces number four ranked challenger, France’s Sofiane Takoucht.

Also on the bill, Manchester’s Zelfa Barrett defends his Commonwealth super-featherweight title against Scot Jordan McCorry.

Barrett’s stablemate Lyndon Arthur meets Ghana’s Emmanuel Anim for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight championship.

Here are a selection of quotes

FRANK WARREN

“Hopefully there is no banana skin and if Josh comes through we can get to Elland Road again.”

“He is the best featherweight on the planet and can go on to become one of the best fighters of his generation.”

“If people say he isn’t the best why don’t Leo Santa Cruz and Oscar Valdez want to fight him?”

“Josh is something special and we will make big fights happen, but he has to get past Takoucht.”

“Zelfa against Jordan, this is a good fight. They are both skilful fighters, competitors and I’m sure we will see something special on Saturday night. Zelfa is my fighter, but I love having Jordan on our shows. I’ve never seen a guy give so much as he does.”

“If Lyndon can come through there is a lot happening among the British light-heavyweights and he will be in the shake up.”

JOSH WARRINGTON

“We took our eyes off a few things before the last fight against Kid Galahad. We were so concentrated on unification fights and just beating him up. I think we took our eye off the ball in a few areas of training.”

“This time, I have not looked beyond Takoucht. There is talk about unifications or going back to Elland Road, but the focus is this fight and this fight only.”

“I want an A class performance after the cuddling contest against Galahad. Sofiane can go home a hero by beating me and I can’t let that happen. World champions can get complacent, but we are on a mission.

“My mentality isn’t that this is an instant win. Winning is the most important thing but I want to send a message and win in style.”

SEAN O’HAGAN

“We have left no stone unturned and we have to come back with a statement.

Other world champions have turned down the fight against Josh, but Sofiane took it without hesitation and he will come and try to rip the title away. I believe that Josh is the best featherweight on the planet, but we have to win well.”

SOFIANE TAKOUCHT

“I feel good, I have been training hard,  I am in the best condition and will show up on the night. Josh is a very good champion, but I need to make an impact in order to win. Winning will change my life and reputation in the boxing world. I believe in myself. I am ready to fight.”

ZELFA BARRETT

“Jordan is going to throw the kitchen sink at me and like Frank said he will give 150 per-cent.

We wanted this fight because Jordan will bring the best out of me. Jordan lost to Archie Sharp and Sam Bowen, but I am not them and the best in my weight division. My mindset is great and I am a different man to the boxer who lost to Ronnie Clark.

“If I want to get to world level these are the fighters I have to dismantle. I want the British champion Sam Bowen, but I am not overlooking Jordan.”

JORDAN McCORRY

“I have put everything into this camp and I am going to get a win. I respect Zelfa, he is a good boxer and looked very good against Lyon Woodstock, but I can cause problems if I stick to the game plan.”

“He showed flaws in his defence when he lost to Ronnie Clark and that is a bit of blueprint. Credit to him he went back to the gym and improved. This could be my last chance so I have got to give it everything and show what I am about.”

LYNDON ARTHUR:

“I don’t want a walkover, but there is no department where he is better than me. When I win this I am right behind these guys like Anthony Yarde and those fights can be made.

Right now, Anim is my sole thought. I am in the gym 24/7 perfecting my craft. There are lot of great Manchester fighters and I am just building my legacy.”

EMMANUEL ANIM:

“This is a great opportunity and something I have been waiting for a long time. Lyndon is a average boxer and never fought anyone like me in his life. I am going to take his title. He says I have beat nobody, but I am going to show I am somebody.”

The big night of action in Leeds is headed by local hero Josh Warrington (29-0, 6KOs) who makes the third defence of his IBF featherweight championship against France’s Sofiane Takoucht (35-3-1, 13 KOs). Zelfa Barrett (22-1,13KOs) will make the first defence of his Commonwealth super-featherweight title against exciting Scot Jordan McCorry (18-6-1, 4KOs). In a third title clash Manchester’s Lyndon Arthur (15-0, 12KOs) faces Ghanaian Emmanuel Anim (14-2-1, 12KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight crown , in a battle of the big hitters.

Darlington’s Troy Williamson (11-0-1, 8KOs), Mark Heffron (23-1, 17KOs), Shakiel Thompson (4-0, 3KOs), Reece Mould (12-0, 6 KOs), Shabaz Masoud (5-0, 1KO), John Joyce, 1-0), Jack Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs), Callum Simpson (1-0), Evaldas Petrauskas (1-0 1 KO) plus exciting debutant George Davey are all in action.

Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and firstdirectarena.com Prices: £40, £50, £75, £100, £150, £200, £350 – Inner Ring Hospitality.

“I can confirm that I have made a formal application for a boxing licence with the British & Irish Boxing Authority. I refute the claims that I re-applied for a licence with any other accredited sanctioning body (as has been stated in the press). Therefore, I have not been refused a licence as alleged. It is my decision to box again (although may be seen by some as ‘controversial’). However, unlike many boxers, I have continued to maintain my fitness and healthy lifestyle since my last fight with Steve Collins. 

I acknowledge the risks associated with the sport, and fully understand the importance of being fully assessed by medical professionals. Therefore, I’ve welcomed the requirements of BIBA to clearly establish that I AM ‘fit to box’. I have undergone numerous and regular medical investigations to confirm this, including periodic MRI brain scans. Now that I’m in the UK, within the next few weeks I have welcomed (at the request of BIBA) a further series of tests – including another MRI brain scan to provide clear clarification of my state of health. BIBA are also facilitating additional safeguarding at ringside for my fight (which far exceeds the criteria of any other sanctioning organisation).

My desire to box again is something that has remained within me for several years… It is MY choice alone, and I’ve not been persuaded or coerced by any other person. I feel like that I am being discriminated against because of my age.  I can also confirm that I have chosen to fight an opponent who is a renowned former world champion in his own right. The challenge that I’ve set myself is high. This IS a tough challenge, but one that I feel I need to pursue to bring about final closure and an inner peace of mind for myself as a man. It’s NOT about the money, it’s about closing a desire that remains within my mind, body and soul. This is my dream, and I hope boxing fans around the world will embrace my wishes, and support and respect the fact that this is my decision alone.”

LAS VEGAS (October 8, 2019) – Roy Jones Boxing Promotions has announced a loaded full- card for its latest installment of RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®, October 25 in the great fight town of Reno, Nevada.

Co-promoted by Joey Gilbert Promotions, in association with Silver Legacy Resort Casino at THE ROW, the event will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, from inside the Grande Exposition Hall at Silver Legacy.

Four highly competitive, entertaining matches will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS, preceded by a pair of four-round bouts to open the show.

San Antonio’s undefeated super lightweight prospect Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda (16-0, 7 KOs), the reigning North American Boxing Association (NABA) champion, will take on battled-tested Estonia-native Stan Martyniouk (20-2, 6 KOs), who lives in Belmont, California, in the eight-round main event.

The co-featured event will showcase Reno fan-favorite Oscar “Chapito” Vazquez (15-2, 3 KOs) against Mexican bantamweight Gilberto Mendoza (15-7-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round bout. Vazquez has won 13 of his last 14 fights, while Mendoza is riding a four-fight win streak, winning eight of his last nine.

Undefeated Sacramento cruiserweight Blake McKernan (10-0, 2 KOs) faces New York veteran Shawn Miller (18-5, 7 KOs) in another eight-round bout on UFC FIGHT PASS. McKernan is looking for an impressive win against a former World Boxing Federation (WBF) title challenger such as Miller to build his name recognition outside of the region.

The opening UFC FIGHT PASS bout will match Reno featherweight prospect Ricard Lucio (2-0, 2 KOs) versus Sacramento’s pro-debuting Samir McQueen in a four-rounder.

Scheduled to fight on the undercard on the non-UFC FIGHT PASS segment is Reno lightweight Peter Cortez (1-1) vs. undefeated Las Vegas lightweight Daquan Mays (3-0, 1 KO), and Reno lightweight Kenny Davis, Jr. (0-2-1) vs. Philip Schwartz (3-0-1, 2 KOs), of Stockton, CA, in a pair of four-round fights.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets are available for $25, $45 and $65 and can be purchased at the Silver Legacy Box Office, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 775-325-7401 or 1-800-MUST-SEE.

Silver Legacy Resort Casino is offering a special RJJ Boxing room rate at its hotel as well as its connected sister properties, Eldorado Resort Casino and Circus Circus Reno. Click on the respective property links for more information.

Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first bout 5:45 p.m. PT, and UFC FIGHT PASS starts at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.comwww.SilverLegacy.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @UFCFightPass, @JoeyPromotions, @SilverLegacy
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @JoeyPromotions, @SilverLegacyReno
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /JoeyPromotions /SilverLegacyResortCasino

CARSON, Calif. (Oct. 8, 2019) — The 115-pound fighting pride of the Philippines, Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas, will make the eighth defense of his IBF junior bantamweight world title against Mexican contender Jonathan Rodriguez Saturday, November 2 at Dignity Health Sports Park. Ancajas-Rodriguez will serve as the co-feature to Miguel Berchelt’s WBC super featherweight title defense versus Jason Sosa, and both fights will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (Spanish) starting at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.
 
The undercard will see the return of Oklahoma City’s Alex “El Cholo” Saucedo, who is looking to rebound from his first career defeat against Rod Salka in an eight-round super lightweight bout. Saucedo-Salka and the rest of the undercard will stream live on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
 
“I am looking forward to this fight because Rodriguez brings the Mexican style to his fights, and Mexican and Filipinos make the best fights,” Ancajas said. “I want to thank Top Rank, Senator Manny Pacquiao and my manager, Joven Jimenez, for their continued support. It is going to be a war, and to my Filipino fans, I look forward to putting on a show for you in Carson.”

“I plan on taking full advantage of this opportunity,” Rodriguez said. “Ancajas is a great champion, but my time is now. It is time for a new face at 115 pounds.”
 
Ancajas (31-1-1, 21 KOs) is one of boxing’s longest-reigning and most active champions, as only two current world champions (Deontay Wilder and Wanheng Menayothin) have more title defenses. The dynamic southpaw won the title in September 2016 and defended his belt three times apiece in 2017 and 2018. He last fought May 4 in Stockton, California, knocking out Ryuichi Funai in six rounds. This will be Ancajas’ fourth consecutive bout in California, but the first time he’s showcased his skills in Southern California. Rodriguez (21-1, 15 KOs) is a dangerous foe who has won five in a row since a split decision defeat spoiled his unbeaten record. He is coming off a career-best win June 7 in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, when he knocked out former two-time world title challenger Felipe Orucuta in the 10^th round.
 
Saucedo (28-1, 18 KOs), who turned 25 years old in June, burst onto the world stage in 2018. He overcame cuts and a swollen face to knock out Lenny Zappavigna in front of his hometown fans at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in a Fight of the Year contender. He returned to the Chesapeake Energy Arena last November and was knocked out in seven rounds by Maurice Hooker in a failed bid for the WBO junior welterweight world title. Saucedo regrouped and enlisted the services of a new trainer, Pedro Neme. Saucedo and Neme have been working together for the past four months and have focused on refining his defensive skills. Salka (24-5, 4 KOs) has not fought since an April 2018 knockout loss to former world champion Francisco Vargas, but before the Vargas defeat, he had won five in a row.
 
“I am excited to finally be back in the ring,” Saucedo said. “I enjoyed my time off, but the time was right to come back. I have a new team and can’t wait to show everyone the new Alex Saucedo. On November 2, I will steal the show.”
 
In other undercard bouts:

• Southern California native and 2008 U.S. Olympian Javier Molina (20-2, 8 KOs) hopes to extend his winning streak to four versus Hiroki Okada (19-1, 13 KOs) in a 10-round super lightweight bout. Okada fought Ray Beltran in an ESPN-televised Fight of the Year candidate in February, losing via ninth-round knockout.
   
  “I’m pumped to be fighting an opponent like Hiroki Okada,” Molina said. “We know he’s a tough fighter, but these are the types of fights we are looking for. A win over him will get me one step closer to a world title shot, and that’s what we are aiming for. He’s coming off a loss to Beltran, so we know he’s hungry to get back in the win column. We are going to be ready for anything he brings to the table.”

• 2016 Australian Olympian Daniel Lewis (4-0, 3 KOs) will make his United States debut against Alexis Gaytan (6-4, 2 KOs) in a super welterweight bout scheduled for eight rounds.
   
• Armenian welterweight knockout sensation Gor Yeritsyan (11-0, 10 KOs) will face fellow unbeaten Damien Lopez (9-0-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-rounder. The Freddie Roach-trained Yeritsyan has won four straight bouts via knockout.
   
• Dominican knockout artist Elvis Rodriguez (4-0-1, 4 KOs) will make his fifth ring appearance of 2019 against Chilean veteran Luis Norambuena (4-4-1, 0 KOs) in a six-rounder at super lightweight.
   
• Raymond Muratalla (8-0, 6 KOs) will fight Arnulfo Becerra (7-2, 5 KOs) in a six-rounder at lightweight.
   
• Ruben Rodriguez (9-0, 3 KOs), from Indio, California, will see action in a six-round super lightweight bout versus an opponent to be named. 

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions and Peltz Boxing, tickets for this world championship event are priced at $125, $85, $65 and $30 (not including applicable fees). Tickets can be purchased by visiting AXS.com, charge by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849) and in person at the Dignity Health Sports Park Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). 

For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.
 
Use the hashtags #BercheltSosa and #AncajasRodriguez to join the conversation on social media.
 
About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.
 
Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive 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) and can cancel at any time.
 
ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com.

NEW YORK – October 8, 2019 – Today, SHOWTIME announced PARIAH: THE LIVES AND DEATHS OF SONNY LISTON, a SHOWTIME Sports documentary film, premiering on Friday, November 15 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Written and directed by Simon George and told through original conversations with luminaries, historians and some of Liston’s closest friends and family, PARIAH chronicles the rise and precipitous fall of one of the most vilified and misunderstood sports champions of all time.

Overcoming the seemingly insurmountable odds that life threw his way, Liston became the heavyweight champion of the world when he knocked out Floyd Patterson in 1962. Just eight years later, his wife would find Liston dead in their Las Vegas home from a supposed heroin overdose. Suspicion as to the cause of death pervaded among those that knew him. PARIAH explores the many theories behind his untimely demise. The film features exclusive conversations with Mike Tyson, boxing historians Nigel Collins, Jerry Izenberg, Bob Lipsyte, Don Majeski and Shaun Assael, upon whose investigative work PARIAH is based.

“Sonny Liston’s story is filled with tragedy and triumph, and goes far beyond boxing,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports and Event Programming for Showtime Networks Inc. “PARIAH provides a raw examination of the public’s perception of Liston versus his reality. The film is powerful and compelling, and will reveal an authentic, inside perspective about Liston’s life that has never been told before.”

Liston’s boxing career took him to places he’d never imagined. From fighting for the most prestigious honor in sports to his association with notorious mobsters in America’s violent underbelly, Liston was a man who led many lives. Instead of being celebrated with the reverence reserved for the heavyweight champion of the world, Liston became a pariah, denigrated by white society as a violent criminal and rejected by the civil rights movement because he wasn’t the poster boy they needed. This realization caused Liston to spiral out of control. Expedited by back-to-back losses to Muhammad Ali, including perhaps the most controversial knockout of all time, Liston’s dramatic fall from grace would end tragically.

“To me, Sonny Liston was one of the greatest, yet most misunderstood and vilified sports figures of all time,” said director Simon George. “He was born into a time of great turmoil and upheaval in America, and became the scapegoat for a nation in flux. He was a man who aimed for the stars but instead got torn apart by the factions warring for their places in post-war America. His story is one of race, prejudice and injustice. It is a film about how America chooses its heroes and how it never lets anyone forget their past.”

PARIAH: THE LIVES AND DEATHS OF SONNY LISTON is executive produced by Louise Norman, Adam Hawkins and Dimitri Doganis.

Developed from Shaun Assael’s investigative book The Murder of Sonny Liston: Las Vegas, Heroin, and Heavyweights, PARIAH is the latest in a series of unscripted programming from SHOWTIME Sports Documentary Films that spotlights culturally relevant subject matter in the world of sports. Additional titles in the lineup include the 2017 Sports Emmy^® Award-winning DISGRACED, the multi-part series SHUT UP AND DRIBBLE, 100%: JULIAN EDELMAN and QUIET STORM: THE RON ARTEST STORY.

FRESNO, Calif. (Oct. 8, 2019) — WBC/WBO super lightweight world champion Jose Ramirez wanted to do something to benefit the family of Maxim “Mad Max” Dadashev, who passed away July 23 due to injuries sustained in the ring.

After he defeated Maurice Hooker in a super lightweight unification bout July 27 in Arlington, Texas, Ramirez and his adviser, Rick Mirigian, offered his fight-worn gloves, shoes and trunks to the highest bidder. The board of The Big Fresno Fair, the largest annual event in California’s Central Valley, stepped up with a $10,000 bid.

One hundred percent of the proceeds were sent to the Dadashev family, and the items are currently on display alongside a life-size statue of Ramirez at the Fresno County Historical Museum.

“I’m honored and humbled to have been able to help out Maxim’s family,” Ramirez said. “Every fighter puts their life on the line in the ring. My prayers to his family.”

“These items are incredibly important to our museum, especially with the recent addition of the life-size statue honoring Jose,” said John C. Alkire, CEO, The Big Fresno Fair. “When we knew this was going to support a family during a time of loss, we were all in.”

“Maxim fought in Fresno once as a pro, and Jose and I just wanted to do something to show our support for his family,” Mirigian said.

“From the bottom of our hearts, and on behalf of Maxim’s family and our entire team, we would like to thank Jose, his team and The Big Fresno Fair for their generosity,” said Egis Klimas, Dadashev’s manager.

LAS VEGAS (October 8, 2019) – The Canelo vs. Kovalev undercard will be brimming with action as it features the returns of Ryan Garcia, Bakhram Murtazaliev, Seniesa Estrada, Marlen Esparza and many others. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively as one of the most anticipated events this fight season on DAZN.

“We have put a lot of thought into this long-awaited night, and we’re eager to deliver one of the best undercards of the year,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “This event will feature some of our brightest talents taking on the toughest fights of their careers. With Ryan Garcia, we have a huge star in the making, but he’ll need to get past a tough, hard-hitting contender in Romero Duno to secure his path for a world title. We also have Seniesa Estrada and Marlen Esparza, who will look to final end their rivalry in a fight for the Interim WBA Flyweight Title. So, whether in person or live on DAZN, a new chapter in boxing’s history will unfold on November 2.”

As announced previously, rising superstar Ryan Garcia (18-0, 15 KOs) of Victorville, Calif. will look to unify the vacant WBC Silver Lightweight Championship with NABO Lightweight Champion “Ruthless” Romero Duno (21-1, 16 KOs) of Cotabato City, Philippines in the 12-round co-main event to Canelo vs. Kovalev. This will be a fight between two of the hardest-hitting lightweights in the Golden Boy stable.

“This is a big moment for me,” said Ryan Garcia. “These opportunities don’t come often. It’s my chance to show what I’m capable of on the biggest stage in boxing. I’m not going to let this opportunity slip. I’m fighting against Romero Duno, the opponent I wanted since the beginning, so I’m going show that I’ve reached another level on Nov. 2.”

“This is the opportunity I’ve been waiting for,” said Romero Duno. “I’m so excited to be part of a such a big night as the co-main event of Canelo vs. Kovalev. This fight has been building up for some time. I’ve had my eye on Ryan Garcia for a while now. I promise to do everything it takes to beat him on Nov. 2 and take home a big victory for the Philippines!”

Undefeated Russian prospect Bakhram Murtazaliev (16-0, 13 KOs) will face the biggest test of his young career in a 12-round elimination bout with Jorge Fortea (20-1-1, 6 KOs) of Valencia, Spain for the mandatory position in the IBF Junior Middleweight Division. Murtazaliev was originally supposed to fight Jeison Rosario on September 21 for the #1 position but Rosario pulled out due to an injury. This exciting bout will be co-promoted by Main Events and Krusher Promotions in association with Sampson Boxing.

“I have been waiting a long time for this opportunity. I am excited for my first fight with my new trainer, Virgil Hunter. We will be ready on November 2ndto face Fortea and become mandatory challenger. Thank you to my team Main Events, Krusher Promotions, Kathy Duva, Sergey Kovalev, my manager, Egis Klimas and Virgil Hunter for making my dream a reality.”

According to Fortea, “It’s a moment I have been waiting for whole my life, to be part of the undercard of Canelo vs Kovalev for my US debut is like a dream. I trained 15 years for this. I want to thank Sampson Lewkowicz for making it true, Main Events and Golden Boy for hosting the eliminator. Murtazaliev is indeed a strong and dangerous boxer but I will be ready for that and my skills will prevail. I won’t waste the opportunity to fight for a world title”

Bakhram is a terrific fighter and we are so pleased to be able to give him this great opportunity on such an auspicious night,” said Main Events’ CEO Kathy Duva. “With any luck, Main Events and Krusher promotions will have another world champion soon.”

Two of the most exciting and popular female boxers in the sport today will finally settle their heated rivalry as Seniesa “Superbad” Estrada (17-0, 7 KOs) of East Los Angeles, Calif. and Marlen Esparza (7-0, 1 KOs) of Houston, Texas battle for the vacant Interim WBA Flyweight Title. This clash has been building up for over two years as both fighters have been exchanging words over social media and various interviews.

“Thank you to my promoter Golden Boy, especially Roberto Diaz for making this fight possible,” said Seniesa Estrada. “I’m happy to give the fans the fight they’ve been wanting to see. I’m looking forward to representing women’s boxing in a positive way. I’m going to put on a great show and demonstrate my skills, showing things that people have not yet seen from me. Thank you to all the people who continue to support me.”

“My team and I have been pushing for this fight,” said Marlen Esparza. “I know this is what the fans want. Now I’m forcing her to back up everything she has ever said. She knows it’s going to be a long night for her.”

Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (12-0-1, 8 KOs), a fan-favorite native of Philadelphia, will fight for the vacant NABF Welterweight Title against Carlos Ortiz (11-4, 11 KOs) of Torreon, Mexico. Cobbs is an exciting, unconventional fighter who has taken the undefeated records of Ferdinand “Lucky Boy” Kerobyan and most recently against Steve “Manos de Oro” Villalobos.

Rising 17-year-old prospect Tristan Kalkreuth (2-0, 2 KOs) of Duncanville, Texas will return in a four-round cruiserweight fight.

Meiirim Nursultanov (12-0, 8 KOs) of Merki, Kazakhstan will fight in a 10-roumd middleweight battle against Cristian Olivas (16-5, 13 KOs) of San Ysidro, California for the WBC – USNBC Middleweight Title. Nursultanov is a top prospect in the hot middleweight division and is current ranked #10 in the IBF. Olivas hits hard with power in both hands and has never been stopped. This should be an explosive match-up.

Evan Holyfield, the son of legendary Hall of Famer Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield, will make his much-anticipated professional debut in a four-round junior middleweight fight against Nick Winstead (0-1) of Abita Springs, La.

Canelo vs. Kovalev is a 12-round fight for the WBO Light Heavyweight World Title presented by Golden Boy, Main Events and Krusher Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and Brand-New Grapefruit Crush, Knockout Flavor. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 2 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN. The title clash 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 Canelo vs. Kovalev are on sale and are priced at $1,754, $1,254, $854, $654, $404 and $204, not including applicable service charges and taxes. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.axs.com

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.MainEvents.com
and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @KrusherKovalev and @DAZN_USA. Become a fan on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing,
www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, https://www.facebook.com/thekrusher/,
https://www.facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing and
https://www.facebook.com/DAZNUSA/. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @Canelo, @Main_Events, @SergeyKrusherKovalev, and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKovalev.

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

LOS ANGELES (Oct. 7, 2019): Undefeated middleweight contender D’Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard (20-0, 13 KOs) has re-signed with Golden Boy as he inches closer to a world title opportunity. Ballard will return this December to challenge for a regional title. Details for this fight will be announced very soon.

“As you can see, we are continuing to strengthen our stable by re-signing some of our best talent,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “D’Mitrius Ballard is the next in an impressive list of young contenders who are strengthening their bond with the company before entering into the biggest challenges of their careers. This impressive list includes Vergil Ortiz Jr., Ryan Garcia, Alexis Rocha, Lamont Roach Jr., and now Ballard. Years of development are about to pay off for this hungry fighter as he enters the fast track to world title shot.”

Ballard is a 26-year-old middleweight contender who boasts a decorated amateur career, where he won several national championships. In 2013, the native of Temple Hills, Maryland began his professional career with a knockout victory against Kelly Henderson. Since then, Ballard has steadily moved up the middleweight rankings, taking on tough competitors such as Victor “Sina” Fonseca and Alan “Amenaza” Campa. Though his last fight ended in a controversial no contest against tough contender Elias Espadas in June, the undefeated talent is anxious to demonstrate that be belongs at the top of a very competitive division of 160 pounds.

“I’m so thankful to Golden Boy for believing in me enough to re-sign me,” said D’Mitrius Ballard. “I have worked hard to get to this level, and now it’s time to show the world that I am worthy of becoming a world champion. Let the bells ring. It’s time to rumble!”

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.

Nutley, NJ (October 8, 2019) – GH3 Promotions has announced the signing of undefeated junior middleweight prospect Derrick Coleman.

Coleman of Detroit, Michigan, has a record of 9-0 with seven knockouts.

“Derrick is a very talented young fighter. He possesses a lot of skill and power. I look forward on moving him, getting him great television exposure, and putting him in position for big fights,” said GH3 Promotions CEO, Vito Mielnicki.

The now 20 year-old Coleman began boxing at the age of four because his family, namely his grandfather were big fans of the sport. Coleman had a 135-fight amateur career, and was a four-time National Champion.

Coleman plied his trade at the famed Kronk Gym, and worked with the legendary Emanuel Steward until his passing. Coleman is now trained by Marlon Thomas.

Coleman turned professional in 2017 at the age of 18, and he has been perfect by displaying his boxer-puncher skill-set.

“I signed with GH3 Promotions because Vito treated me like family, and he made me an offer that could not turn down. I can see him moving me and hopefully I will be in the top-20 in the next year.”

Coleman, who is managed by Sheer Sports Management, and advised by Dave “Bing” Dogan.

“This is a great situation to be working with Vito. He can do a lot of good for Derrick and I know he will move him in the right direction,” said Dogan.

Coleman will be in action on Friday, October 25th in Philadelphia.

LAS VEGAS – UFC^® returns to the nation’s capital for the first time in over eight years with a clash of powerful heavyweight strikers, as No. 7 ranked contender Alistair Overeem battles No. 10 Walt Harris. The event also features a matchup of top strawweight contenders as No. 6 Claudia Gadelha faces No. 10 Cynthia Calvillo.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN^®: OVEREEM vs. HARRIS will air live from Capital One Arena on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 9 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 7. Prelims will kick off at 5:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+ and then continue on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 7pm ET. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. ET.

A perennial heavyweight contender, Overeem (45-17 1NC, fighting out of Amsterdam, The Netherlands) has fought the who’s who of mixed martial arts. Throughout his storied career, he has delivered spectacular knockouts against Brock Lesnar, Mark Hunt, Junior Dos Santos and Andrei Arlovski. He now looks to secure his third consecutive stoppage win and stake his claim for another UFC title shot.

A heavy-handed striker, all of Harris’ (13-7 1NC, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.) victories have come via knockout. His power was on full display in his most recent outing, as he stopped Aleksei Oleinik in only 12 seconds. Harris has also netted impressive wins over Serghei Spivac, Daniel Spitz and Chase Sherman. He now aims to continue his ascent up the rankings with another show-stealing finish.

A former strawweight title challenger, Gadelha (17-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) showed off new wrinkles to her game in a unanimous decision win over Randa Markos this past July. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt has also netted impressive victories against Carla Esparza, Karolina Kowalkiewicz and Jessica Aguilar. Gadelha now hopes to keep her momentum going by dispatching another top-level opponent.

A talented grappler, Calvillo (8-1, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) immediately turned heads in her UFC debut with a submission win over Amanda Cooper. She has since earned impressive victories against Cortney Casey, Poliana Botelho, Joanne Calderwood and Pearl Gonzalez. Calvillo is now gunning for the biggest win of her career to crack the strawweight top five.

Announced bouts on the card include:

• No. 10 ranked bantamweight contender Cody Stamann (18-2, fighting out of Sparta, Mich.) locks horns with rising No. 13 Song Yadong  (15-4, 1 NC, fighting out of Heilongjiang, China)
• In a pivotal bantamweight contenders’ bout, No. 4 Aspen Ladd (8-1, fighting out of El Dorado Hills, Calif.) meets No. 7 Yana Kunitskaya (12-4 1NC, fighting out of Murmansk, Russia)
• Heavyweight veterans collide, as Stefan Struve (33-11, fighting out of Beverwijk, The Netherlands) faces Ben Rothwell (36-12, fighting out of Kenosha, Wisc.)
• Former interim welterweight champion Carlos Condit (30-13, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) returns against tough prospect Mickey Gall (6-2, Green Brook Township, N.J.)
• Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner Alonzo Menifield (10-0, fighting out of Dallas, Tex.) aims to remain undefeated against battle-tested Trevor Smith (15-9, fighting out of Tukwila, Wash.)
• No. 15 ranked strawweight contender Cortney Casey (8-7, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.) looks to rebound against Virna Jandiroba (14-1, fighting out of Feira de Santana, Brazil)
• Bryce Mitchell (11-1, fighting out of Searcy, Ark.) goes for his third straight UFC win against Matt Sayles (8-2, fighting out of San Diego, Calif.)
• Dana White’s Contender Series signee Joe Solecki (7-2, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.) debuts against tough veteran Matt Wiman (16-8, fighting out of Portland, Ore.)

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

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

Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT ON ESPN^®: OVEREEM vs. HARRIS go on sale Friday, October 11 at 10 a.m. ET. Tickets are available for purchase at ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, October 9 at 10 a.m. ET via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, October 10 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 300 million fans and 70 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly one billion TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 60 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC was acquired in 2016 by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, along with strategic investors Silver Lake Partners and KKR. UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

About ESPN

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

NEW YORK (October 7, 2019)–Split-T Management fighters Ivan Baranchyk and Brian Ceballo turned in impressive performances on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden as each fighter registered stoppage victories on the undercard of the Gennady Golovkin – Sergiy Derevyanchenko card.
Former IBF Junior Welterweight world champion, Baranchyk stopped tough New Yorker Gabriel Bracero in the 4th round of their scheduled 10-round bout, while Ceballo took out previously undefeated Ramal Amanov in the 3rd round of their welterweight tussle.  

Baranchyk came out throwing hard punches early as he was looking for the an explosive early knockout.  In round two, Baranchyk started getting to Bracero and opened a cut over the right eye of Bracero.  In round four, Baranchyk landed two hard body shots that was followed by a jab and big right that forced Bracero to hold on and eventually fall to the canvas.  When Bracero got to his feet, the fight was waved off at 1:30.
With the win, Baranchyk will look for another major opportunity with a record of 20-1 with 13 knockouts.  
“The Beast is back.  This is my message for everybody,” said Baranchyk.  “This is a good opponent and I am back.  I fought opponents that were dirtiier and I was prepared for that.  Pedro Diaz is my guy as a trainer.”
Baranchyk is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Holden productions and Fight Promotions.

Ceballo was fighting in front of a hometown crowd, and continued his ascent of the prospect rankings as he was dominant in his surgical dissection of Amanov.  
Ceballo cut Amanov’s left eye early in the fight, and the New York native started landing more and harder as round’s two and three commenced.  In the 3rd round, Ceballo landed a hard flurry of punches that forced the stoppage at 1:20.  

With the win, Ceballo, who was fighting for the 5th time in 2019 is now 11-0 with six-knockouts.  Amanov loses for the 1st time and is now 16-1.
Ceballo is promoted by 360 Promotions.
The fights were seen live on DAZN.

Sophie Alisch (4-0, 1 KO) will face the toughest test of her career on November 2nd as the 17-year-old boxing sensation takes on former two-time World title challenger Irma Balijagic Adler (16-12, 8 KOs) at the CGM Arena, Koblenz.

The exciting German star returns to the ring following a dominant points win over Spain’s Vanesa Caballero at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle in Ludwigshafen in August, and will hope to continue her ascent up the featherweight division with a fifth professional victory. 

“I am very pleased to compete against such an experienced opponent and to be in an eight round fight for the first time,” said Alisch. “Irma Adler has already boxed the best in the world and for World Championship belts, but as always I am well prepared and have had a great training camp.

“I made my professional debut at the CGM Arena so I will return to Koblenz with many positive memories, and look to make more!”

Adler, who has twice challenged for WBO World Super Featherweight title against Germany’s Ramona Kühne and Poland’s Ewa Brodnicka, and has shared the ring with a number of world-class fighters including Eva Wahlstrom, Delfine Person and Erica Farias, believes her experience will prove the difference on November 2nd.

“I know Sophie is very young and people are expecting great things from her, but I am much more experienced,” said Adler. “I am expecting a fantastic fight and will give my best to get the victory!”

“Sophie has had an excellent first year as a pro and she’s ready for these bigger tasks,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “It is unbelievable that she’s already so dominant at seventeen.

“Having her first fight over eight rounds against an opponent as experienced as Irma Adler will bring Sophie further forward. We think she’s ready for a title fight soon, maybe in 2020.”

This tantalising featherweight clash features as chief support for Leon Bunn (14-0, 8 KOs) versus Enrico Koelling (26-3, 8 KOs) as Bunn defends his IBF International Light Heavyweight title. Also on the undercard are local stars Slawa Spomer (8-0, 5 KOs), Roman Gorst (6-0, 5 KOs), Hizni Altunkaya (31-3, 18 KOs) and Yasin Altunkaya (14-0, 11 KOs). 

‘Fighting For Future’ on November 2nd is a special event that will see ticket revenue and money raised from the evening donated to three charities: Laughing Hearts, a charity that provides support and opportunities to children affected by poverty, Parents’ Initiative for Children with Cancer Koblenz, who provide support to the parents of children suffering from cancer in Koblenz and Education Unlimited, an education charity who encourage diversity and training across Europe. 

All the action from the CGM Arena is available to watch live on Sport1 in Germany. Tickets are available online via www.eventim.de, www.adticket.de and www.westticket.de.

CHIHUAHUA, MEXICO (Oct. 7, 2019): Lightweight contender Oscar Duarte (17-1-1, 12 KOs) will defend his WBC Latino Lightweight Title in a 10-round main event against Richard Solano (20-2-2, 13 KOs) on the October 19 edition of Golden Boy Fight Night on Facebook Watch at The Gimnasio Rodrigo M. Quevedo in Chihuahua, Mexico. The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

“We’re excited for the second installment of our four-part series in Mexico with Facebook Watch,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “This time, we’re headed to Chihuahua, Mexico as we continue to build our brand’s presence in different parts of the country. Oscar Duarte is a rising Golden Boy star with deep roots in Chihuahua and Francisco Vargas is a former world champion, so we guarantee an impressive event for fans in attendance and from home on Facebook Watch.”

Duarte is a 23-year-old native of Parral, Chihuahua who is coming off two technical knockout wins after suffering his only loss, which was against experienced contender Adrian Estrella. The charismatic puncher has also fought on many important cards under the Golden Boy banner, where he has scored big wins against the likes of Roger “The Kid” Gutierrez and Rey “Flash” Perez. Duarte is inches away from a world title shot, but he’ll have to remove any doubts about being worthy for a title shot in a tough fight before a hometown crowd.

“I’m very happy and motivated to be fighting on my native land, my state and with my people,” said Oscar Duarte. “I am preparing to give the very best of myself. Not only do I want to win the fight, but I also want to show people that I am learning and show that I can serve as an example for all of those who have dreams and goals. Every day I work hard to achieve my dream of becoming a world champion and to be an inspiration for my people. On this occasion, I will face a good boxer from Puerto Rico who himself wants to take advantage of this opportunity. Because of that I respect him, but I’m going to do my job in the ring.”

Solano is a 31-year-old native of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic who has fought his entire profesional career in his home country. Solano will fight for the first time in Mexico, and he plans to defeat the hometown hero in his own backyard.

“I want to thank Golden Boy for the opportunity to fight on one of its events in Mexico against Oscar Duarte,” said Richard Solano. “I always dreamed about fighting a Mexican in his own house. I’m ready to hand him a beating. The fans will see that I’m going to win in his own hometown. Everyone will remember my name, Richard Solano. You don’t want to miss this fight!”

In the co-main event, former world champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas (25-2-2, 18 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico will make his highly anticipated return against Ezequiel “Sheke”Aviles (16-4-3, 6 KOs) of Ensenada, Mexico in a 10-round lightweight fight.

“It’s an honor to be coming back to Mexico to begin another run at a world title,” said Francisco Vargas. “It’s been almost five years since I last fought in my home country, so I’m excited to put on a great show for everyone there and for all those who will watch on Facebook.”

“This is the biggest fight of my career,” said Ezequiel Aviles. “But if I want to become a contender, these are the challenges I need to face. I have what it takes to beat Vargas, and I promise a great win on Oct. 19.”

The undercard of this event will feature some of the best talent from the area.

Luis Hernandez (19-0, 17 KOs), who is the most sought-after prospect from Chihuahua, Mexico, will face Victor Zuniga (20-3, 9 KOs) of Ciudad Acuna, Mexico for the WBC Youth Super Lightweight Title in a 10-round battle. Hernandez, who has the same name as the legendary soccer player Luis “El Matador” Hernandez, will look to follow in the footsteps of fighters such as Quirino Garcia, Juan Carlos “El Ranchero” Ramirez, David “Tacubayo” Murillo and Miguel “Mickey” Roman, all of whom originated in Chihuahua, Mexico.

Angel Pillada (12-1, 7 KOs) of Chihuahua, Mexico will fight in an eight-round bantamweight fight.

Karina Fernandez (12-4-1, 3 KOs) of Chihuahua, Mexico will battle Cecilia Santoscoy (2-5, 1 KO) of Satillo, Mexico in an eight-round super flyweight fight.

Jaime Saavedra (2-0), a prospect from Chihuahua, Mexico who recently signed a co-promotional agreement with Golden Boy and Miguel Cotto Promotions, will return in a four-round welterweight fight.

Ruben Tellez (9-2, 5 KOs) of Chihuahua, Mexico will participate in an eight-round lightweight clash against Joaquin Aguilar (5-2, 3 KOs) of Chihuahua, Mexico.

Eduardo Martinez (2-2, 2 KOs) of Chihuahua, Mexico and Alan Salazar (1-0) of Chihuahua, Mexico will meet in a six-round super bantamweight bout.

Karla Gonzalez (2-0) of Chihuahua, Mexico will battle against Brenda Ruacho (0-1) of Chihuahua, Mexico in a super bantamweight fight scheduled for six rounds.

Bryan Soto (1-0, 1 KO) of Chihuahua, Mexico will participate in four-round battle in the 147-pound division.

Rafael Proano (12-2-3, 8 KOs) of Chihuahua, Mexico will take on Esteban Villalba (11-21-3, 8 KOs) of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico in a welterweight clash scheduled for eight rounds.

Carlos Zaleta of Chihuahua, Mexico will make his professional debut in a four-round flyweight fight against Jose Salmeron (0-0-1) of Chihuahua, Mexico.

Carlos Hernandez of Chihuahua, Mexico will participate in a four-round super featherweight clash against Jesus Cuellar (0-3) of Chihuahua, Mexico.

Duarte vs. Solano is a 10-round fight for the WBC Latino Lightweight Title presented by Golden Boy in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and the City of Chihuahua. The event will take place Saturday, Oct. 19 at The Gimnasio Rodrigo M. Quevedo in Chihuahua, Mexico. The fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page.

Tickets for the event are available at www.DonBoleton.com

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

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

LEEDS UNITED star Pablo Hernandez will be the good luck charm in Josh Warrington’s corner this weekend.

IBF featherweight champion Warrington (29-0, 6 KOs) makes the third defence of his world title against Sofiane Takoucht at First Direct Arena, Leeds on Saturday (October 12) night, live on BT Sport.

The club’s all-time great Lucas Radebe led the ring walk in Warrington’s title winning performance against Lee Selby in May 2018. Now it is the turn of the club’s current Player of the Year Hernandez.

Spanish midfielder Hernandez and several other Leeds United players will be roaring on Josh from ringside when he face France’s Takoucht.

Warrington who rarely misses a match when his team are playing at home said: “Pablo is our own Spanish magician so to have him holding my belt and getting in the ring with me, wow.

“It is great that several of the players can make it because it was the close season when I beat Kid Galahad in the summer and they had a match the next day when I boxed Carl Frampton.

“Leeds United are such a huge part of my life so it’s inspirational having the players watching me box. It’s mad because these are the fellas I cheer every weekend as a fan.

“Having Lucas as part of the ring walk when I fought Selby was something else and having Pablo there fires me up for Takoucht.”

Hernandez has been sidelined with injury, but expects to return later this month and Warrington added: “The reaction I got when I put on Twitter that Pablo was part of my team this weekend was amazing.

“Just imagine the noise this weekend. Takoucht will have never heard anything like it.”

The big night of action in Leeds is headed by local hero Josh Warrington (29-0, 6KOs) who makes the third defence of his IBF featherweight championship against France’s Sofiane Takoucht (35-3-1, 13 KOs). Zelfa Barrett (22-1,13KOs) will make the first defence of his Commonwealth super-featherweight title against exciting Scot Jordan McCorry (18-6-1, 4KOs). In a third title clash Manchester’s Lyndon Arthur (15-0, 12KOs) faces Ghanaian Emmanuel Anim (14-2-1, 12KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth light-heavyweight crown , in a battle of the big hitters.

Darlington’s Troy Williamson (11-0-1, 8KOs), Mark Heffron (23-1, 17KOs), Shakiel Thompson (4-0, 3KOs), Reece Mould (12-0, 6 KOs), Shabaz Masoud (5-0, 1KO), John Joyce, 1-0), Jack Daniels (4-0, 2 KOs), Callum Simpson (1-0), Evaldas Petrauskas (1-0 1 KO) plus exciting debutant George Davey are all in action.

Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and firstdirectarena.com Prices: £40, £50, £75, £100, £150, £200, £350 – Inner Ring Hospitality.

IBO International Cruiserweight Champion Kai Robin Havnaa (15-0, 13 KOs) will face the hard-hitting American dangerman Al Sands (20-4-1, 14 KOs) on November 16th in Oslo as he looks to move into World title contention. 

Norway’s number one male boxer is back in the ring headlining a huge show at the historic Ekeberghallen venue alongside Katharina Thanderz, who meets Danila Ramos for the interim WBC World Super Featherweight crown.

Havnaa was last in action on June 22nd scoring a third-round stoppage win over Levani Lukhutashvili at the Forum Horsens in Denmark. This performance followed a career best win for the 30-year-old, who defeated Rad Rashid in front of his home fans in Arendal on March 2nd to claim his first major title.

Havnaa, the son of Norway’s only ever male World Champion, Magne Havnaa, must now put his World title aspirations on the line against his most dangerous opponent to date in order to prove he is ready to face the best in the division.

Sands, born in Haiti but now based in America, boasts an impressive 72 per cent knockout ratio with 18 of his 20 victories coming inside the distance. The 32-year-old is a former NABA-USA and Minneosaota State Cruiserweight Champion, who has also challenged for the WBO Oriental title.

“It’s amazing to headline a big show in Oslo,” says Havnaa. “Last time I boxed in Oslo was at the Spectrum on the undercard of Cecilia Brækhus in front of 10,000 fans. I’m sure this will be even better with all my supporters and a top Norwegian undercard. I’m very excited.

“My opponent is a very experienced skilled fighter with a long reach and good fundamentals. He is a big puncher, who has fought some of the best fighters in the world, and I will be preparing for the best Al Sands there is.

“I’ve always had a big talent to train hard, but now I’m also starting to master how to train smart. I’ve started to become an experienced fighter. I know what to do, and I know what not to do, and all this is going to take me to next level.

“You never know how good an opponent is until you’re trading punches with them, but from what I can see, Sands is my most dangerous opponent. Boxing is a sport full of surprises and with top shape cruiserweights, anything can happen, but on November 16th, I plan to show why I belong at the top.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland admits he has taken a risk allowing Havnaa to face Sands, but reveals the reward could be a shot at the IBO World Champion.  

“This is potentially a very dangerous fight for Kai,” said Sauerland. “We’re taking a risk here but the reward can be great. This is a chance for Kai to prove he belongs at the top level. If he comes through this, then we could look to make a fight between him and the current IBO World Champion Kevin Lerena.”

All the action will be broadcast live on Viasat 4 in Norway. Christian Ramberg, Programme Manager Sports for NENT Group, says:  “World class boxing finally returns to the capital with an amazing fight card. Kai Robin Havnaa will prove that he is a title contender against a very dangerous American opponent. With two knock out experts in action the viewers should not blink.”

Katharina Thanderz faces Danila Ramos for the interim WBC World Super Featherweight title, while Kai Robin Havnaa looks to move into World title contention with a cruiserweight clash against American dangerman Al Sands.

An action-packed undercard features undefeated cruiserweight prospect Kevin Melhus versus Ossie Jervier, light heavyweight Alexander Hagen against Emmanuel Feuzeu, super featherweight Bernard Torres taking on Yesner Talavera and cruiserweight Kent Erik Baadstad meeting Istvan Kun.

Tickets for ‘Capital Showdown’ on November 16th at the Ekeberghallen in Oslo are on sale now and available online via www.ticketmaster.no.

6 October 2019 – Tokyo, Japan: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), recently held an Open Workout at the ONE Martial Arts Fan Fest featuring select ONE: CENTURY ?? athletes. Demetrious Johnson, Brandon Vera, Aung La N Sang, Angela Lee, Christian Lee, Xiong Jing Nan, Kevin Belingon, and Bibiano Fernandes came out to the Bellesalle Shibuya Garden in Tokyo to demonstrate their martial arts skills for fans in attendance. All athletes are set to see action at ONE: CENTURY ??, ONE Championship’s historic 100th live event which takes place at the Ryogoku Kokugikan on Sunday, 13 October.

Official photos of the Open Workout are available at this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1qdktXIwVO18PFLpHGESMRJRMytp48uVy?usp=sharing

Demetrious Johnson, 12-time Flyweight Mixed Martial Arts World Champion, stated: “It’s such an honor and a privilege to be able to return to Japan where I made my ONE Championship debut last March. The experience was absolutely amazing. I feel very fortunate to be here once again, this time competing in the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix Championship Final. I’m sure the fans are excited for all the festivities. The atmosphere at the ONE Martial Arts Fan Fest is buzzing, and it perfectly sets the stage for the huge event coming up next week.”

Brandon Vera, ONE Heavyweight World Champion, stated: “In my entire career, I’ve dreamed of becoming a two-division World Champion and competing in Japan. Next week, I have the chance to fulfill both of those dreams. This is such a huge fight for me, the biggest in my career so far. Taking on Mr. Aung La for the ONE Light Heavyweight World Championship is an honor. I’ve trained very hard for this fight and I’m ready. It’s going to be an action-packed bout between two come-forward warriors.”

Aung La N Sang, ONE Light Heavyweight and Middleweight World Champion, stated: “The last time I was here in Tokyo, it was a memorable evening for me. I faced a Japanese warrior named Ken Hasegawa, whom I respect and hold in very high regard. Now, I will face an even greater challenge in veteran Brandon Vera. Without a doubt, Brandon will be my toughest opponent to date. But I believe in my coaches, I believe in my preparations. We’ve left no stone unturned and we’re ready to take care of business next Sunday night.”

Angela Lee, ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion, stated: “I’ve taken a step back and collected myself after two tough bouts. They’ve taught me lessons and helped me realize a lot of things about myself as a fighter. With the help of my family, my Dad, and my team, I’ve worked extremely hard in improving my game. I feel now that we have the winning formula. Xiong Jing Nan is a worthy champion, but she’s coming into the atomweight division where I am strongest. Make no mistake about it, I’m looking to end matters dramatically within the distance and successfully retain my ONE Women’s Atomweight World Championship.”

Christian Lee, ONE Lightweight World Champion, stated: “I train year-round to stay ready for any opportunity. I’m more than happy to step up and fight Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev at ONE: CENTURY. Entering the ONE Lightweight World Grand Prix Championship Final, and getting to perform with my sister Angela at this historic event in Japan, it’s going to be an awesome experience. I know my opponent is strong and dangerous, but so am I. I think our styles match up very well. I can’t wait to showcase my skills for the fans in Tokyo. It’s going to be an electric, action-packed bout and I am definitely looking to finish and shock the world.”

Xiong Jing Nan, ONE Women’s Strawweight World Champion, stated: “This is the biggest bout of my career. I was able to hold the fort down at strawweight, but now it’s time to lay siege onto the atomweight world title. Angela is my toughest opponent to date. She is a great champion. To be able to compete against her is an honor. But I am coming for that belt. At the end of the night, I fully expect to have my hands raised in victory and to return home to China a two-division ONE World Champion.”

Kevin Belingon, former ONE Bantamweight World Champion, stated: “I’m very excited for this fight. This is my fourth match with Bibiano [Fernandes]. I think this fight will determine who is the true king at bantamweight. I’ll do my best to emerge the winner of this fight. I’m looking to end my business with Bibiano in stunning fashion. I’m super motivated to get the win here in Japan and bring the title back to the Philippines.”

Bibiano Fernandes, ONE Bantamweight World Champion, stated: “I prepared myself very hard for this fight. I’m ready to compete this Sunday, October 13th in Tokyo, Japan. I’m very excited to face Kevin [Belingon] one more time. The last time we fought, it ended controversially. Now, we get the chance to do it again and this time, there will be no doubt. I look to successfully defend my ONE Bantamweight World Champion. I’m ready to show the fans in Tokyo a very good performance.”

ONE: CENTURY ?? takes place live from the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo, Japan on Sunday, 13 October, and is the single greatest world championship martial arts event in the last 100 years. With 28 World Champions featured across various martial arts, ONE: CENTURY ?? is also the first martial arts event in history to host two full-scale World Championship events on the same day.

ONE: CENTURY ?? features World Championship title bouts, World Grand Prix Championship Finals, and World Champion versus World Champion match-ups. Part I of ONE: CENTURY ?? will be broadcast live in the United States via TNT and B/R Live. Part II in the evening, will be broadcast live across more than 140 countries worldwide and streamed to 2.6 billion potential viewers through the world’s largest television networks.

Part I of ONE: CENTURY ?? starts from 9:00 a.m. JST (October 13) / 8:00 p.m. EST (October 12). Part II starts from 5:00 p.m. JST (October 13) / 4:00 a.m. EST (October 13).

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.

NEW YORK (October 4, 2019)–TONIGHT!!! Split-T Management will have two of it’s high-class fighters in action at Madison Square Garden, as former junior welterweight world champion Ivan Baranchyk takes on New Yorker Gabriel Bracero in a 10-round bout. Also seeing action on the card will be rising undefeated welterweight Brian Ceballo battling undefeated foe Ramal Amanov.

The fights will be part of the Gennadiy Golovkin – Sergiy Derevyanchenko Middleweight title undercard and will be streamed live on DAZN.beginning at 7 PM ET.

Baranchyk of Amursk, Russia, who is now residing in Miami, Oklahoma has a record of 19-1 with 12 knockouts.

The 26 year-old Baranchyk won the IBF Junior Welterweight title with a seven round beatdown of Anthony Yigit on October 27, 2018. Unfortunately, Baranchyk came up just short in dropping his title to undefeated Josh Taylor on May 18th.

Baranchyk also has wins over David Thomas (4-0), Angel Figueroa (4-1-1), Shadi Shawareb (9-0-2), Nicholas Givan (16-0-1), Eliseo Cruz Sesma (9-0-1), Zhiman Wang (7-0), Abel Ramos (17-1-2), Keenan Smith (11-0), and former two-time world title challenger Petr Petrov (38-5-2).

In Bracero, he will be facing a battle-tested veteran who has a record of 25-3-1 with six-knockouts.

Baranchyk weighed in at 139.6 lbs. Bracero was 140 lbs.

Baranchyk is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, Holden Promotions and Fight Promotions.

Bracero of Brooklyn has wins over Winston Mathis (6-0), Danny O’Connor (14-0), Guillermo Valdes (12-3), Jermaine White (17-4), Dmitry Salita (35-1-1), O’Connor again (26-2), and in his last bout, Bracero stopped Artemio Reyes (25-2) in five rounds on July 28th.

Ceballo of New York City has a record of 10-0 with five knockouts.

In just 19 months, Ceballo has climbed to the top of a lot of prospect lists on the strength of victories over Bakhtiyar Eyubov (14-0-1) and Luis Alberto Lopez.

In the Eyubov fight, Ceballo dominated the power puncher, and developed a name for himself as the fight also took place at Madison Square Garden on the Gennadiy Golovkin – Steve Rolls card.

Ceballo is coming off a 4th round stoppage over Luis Eduardo Florez on August 23rd in Boston.

“A win on this stage against another undefeated fighter would allow me to continue my career as a Professional Fighter, and allow people to see what Brian Ceballo can do against different opposition,” said Ceballo

Six-year veteran Amanov is an undefeated foe who sports a record of 16-0 with five knockouts. Amanov has fought mainly in Russia, and will be making his 2nd start in the United States.

Amanov has wins over Ranses Payano (19-1) and Soloman Bogere (12-1-2).

Ceballo was 148.6 lbs. Amanov 148.4 lbs.

Ceballo is promoted by 360 Promotions.

Demetrius Andrade will be a more than interested spectator as the WBO Middleweight champion sits ringside tonight as Gennadiy Golovkin and Sergiy Derevyanchenko clash for the vacant IBF and IBO titles at Madison Square Garden live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.
WATCH OUR EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH ANDRADE IN NEW YORK ON MATCHROOM BOXING’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL
Andrade (28-0 17 KOs) is set to defend his WBO crown in December before hunting a blockbuster clash in 2020 to back up his conviction of being the best 160lber on the planet, and both GGG and Canelo Alvarez are on ‘Boo Boo’s’ radar for that.

The Rhode Island star expects a tough fight tonight though, with Kazakh king Golovkin aiming to regain the IBF and IBO crowns while Derevyanchenko full of belief in his second World title fight.

“Fighting either one of them would be cool,” said Andrade. “Sergiy is a durable guy, his only loss is to Danny Jacobs, one of the best out there, and we’re going to see what is left in GGGs tank tonight. Has he gotten a little older or not? We can’t tell until tonight, and it’s a good step up for Sergiy to see his skill level. Either way, I would get in the ring with the winner as they are both stand out guys.

“GGG is the more popular guy and I want to go out and beat the popular guy. He may not be the most skillful out there. He’s put in the work, they’ve moved him well and he’d be a great guy to put on the resume, even if he loses – it’s still GGG!

“I’m not frustrated, I’m working on my own legacy. I want to stay active, fight who we can fight, fight my mandatories and do what we have to do so there’s no more excuses for why people won’t fight me. There’s a small window of names out there now and sooner or later, we’re going to have to fight. So how can I be frustrated when I am a World champion again, fighting four times in a year, I’m getting paid, I’m chilling, my family is good – there’s nothing to be frustrated about. It would still be an honor to get in with Canelo, with GGG, they’ve done a lot for the sport and so am I. It’s going to happen, me and Canelo are in the same age group.

“When it comes to skills, I do believe I’m the most talented fighter out there. So, people don’t want their business destroyed by fighting me. But at the end of the day, you are fighting one of the best. You’re going to say that you fought Demetrius Andrade – Olympic champion, two-weight World champion, what is there to be upset about. Everyone is fighting around the same time, GGG-Derevyanchenko tonight, Canelo in November, I’ll be fighting in December, we can fight in May or June, so it’s all lining up and all I have to do is keep winning and looking good.”

FLINT, Mich. – October 4, 2019 – The Claressa Shields vs. Ivana Habazin WBO and WBC 154-pound world title fight has been called off following an altercation prior to Friday’s official weigh-in that resulted in an injury to Habazin’s trainer, James Ali Bashir. Without her chief second available for Saturday night, Habazin withdrew from the fight.

The remainder of the event, featuring as many as seven bouts promoted by Salita Promotions will proceed as scheduled from the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Flint.

SHOWTIME will televise a two-fight card featuring undefeated welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis of Philadelphia taking on Argentina’s Demian Daniel Fernandez in a 10-round 147-pound bout. In the telecast opener, unbeaten heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin of Saginaw, Mich., will face once-beaten Pavel Šour in a 10-round heavyweight bout. SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION airs live as planned at 9p ET/6p PT.

Ennis (23-0, 21 KOs) weighed in at 146.2 pounds and Fernandez (12-1, 5 KOs) at 146.6 pounds. Franklin weighed in at 231.4 pounds and Šour at 238 pounds.

Still scheduled for action off-TV is the “All Detroit” 10-round showdown between West Detroit’s WBO No. 13-rated super flyweight Jarico “Great Lakes King” O’Quinn (12-0-1, 8 KOs) and East Detroit’s James “O.G.” Smith (13-2, 7 KOs), as well as Scotland’s Hannah Rankin (7-3, 1 KO) taking on California-based veteran Erin Toughill (7-5-1) in a six-round showcase.

Also fighting will be Flint, Mich., cruiserweight Robert Simms (9-3, 3 KOs) going into a six-round battle against Demetrius Banks of Detroit (10-8-1, 5 KOs); undefeated Kazakhstani heavyweight Izim Izbaki (2-0, 1 KO) facing Mount Morris, Michigan’s Troy Albring over four rounds; and undefeated welterweight Jacob Bonas (3-0-1, 2 KOs), one of the last of the young fighters trained by the late, great Emanuel Steward, taking on Indiana’s Norfleet Stitts in a four-rounder.

LAS VEGAS, NV – Rising super welterweight Brandyn “Bad News” Lynch(9-10) returns to action next Saturdaywhen he faces Bernard Thomas in Pico Rivera, California. The stakes have never been higher for Lynch as the vacant GBO super welterweight regional title will be on the line.

The 28 year old Lynch, who began boxing professionally in late 2016 is the nephew of Eddie Murphy who recently signed a major distribution deal with streaming giant Netflix. This will be the 5th fight of the year for Lynch who expects to keep his busy schedule through 2020 as he moves closer to title contention.

Ronald Johnson headlines the card against Sergio Ramirez in a rematch of their 2017 thriller that took place in Las Vegas. Johnson won the first time around by unanimous decision and is looking to win more decisively in their second go around.

In addition to headlining the card, Johnson is also the CEO of American Dream Presents, the company that is co-promoting the card along with Red Boxing Promotions and Hollywood’s Powerhouse Wardour Studios. This event will serve as the lead in to a big 2020 for the company as several shows are being mapped out both domestically and internationally in 2020.

Johnson is looking for Lynch to be one of the cornerstones of some of the upcoming events. He recently sat down with Brandyn’s father, Vernon Lynch to discuss his son’s future plans and both sides are interested in coming to a long term agreement.

Lynch’s boxing ability, combined with his family’s connections, has generated a lot of interest in Hollywood. Many of Hollywood’s biggest names will be in attendance on October 12th.

Tickets to the event are available at https://www3.ticketon.com/event/SUPREMACY-SHOWDOWN/390204

Promoter/matchmaker and legendary talent scout Sampson Lewkowicz wishes to congratulate his long-time fighter and former junior middleweight and middleweight champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez, for being included on the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) ballot for the class of 2020.

In his long and storied career, Martinez held the Interim World Boxing Council World Super Welter Title and the WBC Middleweight Championship, which he defended six times. His memorable victories over Paul “The Punisher” Williams (KO 2) Kelly Pavlik (UD 12) and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (UD 12) cemented Martinez as one of the top fighters of the early 2010’s.

Lewkowicz, best-known as the man who discovered Manny Pacquiao, signed a then-unknown WBC Super Middleweight Champion David Benavidez and brought Martinez to North America, is also making his debut on the hall-of-fame ballot this year. Lewkowicz was a long-time advisor to Martinez through all the most important parts of his career and the pair enjoy a warm relationship to this day.

Martinez will have his work cut out for him to make the cut, as the Class of 2020 is stacked with superstars including Jorge Arce, Timothy Bradley, Vuyani Bungu, Joel Casamayor, Diego Corrales, Carl Froch, Bernard Hopkins, Juan Manuel Marquez, Shane Mosley, Antonio Tarver and Israel Vazquez.

“I congratulate the great champion, Sergio Martinez, for being named in this esteemed hall’s ballot. He was and will always be a role model and beloved fighter and this recognition is well deserved. I hope the judges see him as the great warrior he is and put him among the best of all time.”

Lewkowicz, a former amateur boxer, was born in Montevideo, Uruguay, and came to the US in 1971. He met then World Boxing Council President Jose Sulaiman while managing an electronics store in New York City and caught the boxing bug. The rest, as they say, is history.

He is nominated in the Non-Participant Category, along with 29 others including Kenny Adams (trainer), Rodney Berman (promoter), Freddie Brown (cut man), Bill Caplan (publicist), Miguel Diaz (trainer/cutman), Lou DiBella (promoter), Cameron Dunkin (manager), Kathy Duva (promoter), Duane Ford (judge); Al Gavin (cut man); Harry Gibbs (referee); Brad Goodman (matchmaker), Dr. Margaret Goodman (ringside physician), Dan Goossen (promoter), Chuck Hull (ring announcer), Brendan Ingle (trainer), Jackie McCoy (manager/trainer); Dave Moretti (judge), Carlos Padilla (referee), Abel Sanchez (trainer), Fritz Sdunek (trainer), Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel (administrator) and Ulli Wegner (trainer), Ted Broadribb (manager), Charles E. “Parson” Davies (Manager), Francois Deschamps (manager), Dai Dollings (trainer), John Fleming (manager/promoter) and Gilberto Mendoza Sr. (administrator).

The hall of fame’s electors, made up of members of the Boxing Writers Association of America and selected non-members of the BWAA as well as a panel of historians from Japan, England, Canada, Italy, South Africa, Germany, Mexico, Puerto Rico and the United States, will vote for five people in each category and, in Lewkowicz’s category, the top three vote-getters will be inducted.

Adding some hope to Martinez’s chances, the IBHOF has made a rule change that states that in addition to the top-three vote getters, any fighter who receives more than 80% of the vote will be inducted, creating the possibility of five fighters being enshrined in one year.

“It is just an honor to be on the ballot with so many great names,” continued Lewkowicz. “My hope is for Sergio Martinez, who deserves to take a place of honor among the greats. He is an icon and a treasure to his countrymen and deserves any accolades he receives.”
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.

MAIN EVENT6 Rounds – Super LightweightRomain Tomas (137.7) vs. Victor Padilla (135.6)

6 Rounds – Super WelterweightRoque Zapata (153.9) vs. Isaiah Wise (155.9)

6 Rounds – Super LightweightOsnel Charles (132.6) vs. Gerardo Martinez (134.8)

6 Rounds – WelterweightsSydney Maccow (142.6) vs. Marcel Rivers (142.2)

4 Rounds – LightweightsLeonard Kenon (133.1) vs. Shamar Fulton (134.5)

4 Rounds – WelterweightsKevin Womack (148.5) vs. Shinard Bunch (149)

4 Rounds – LightweightsChristopher Burgos (136.6) vs. Tyree Arnold (136.1)

4 Rounds – LightweightsSeifullah Wise (139.5) vs. Vinnie Denierio (136.1)

4 Rounds – HeavyweightsJoel Caudle (254.8) vs. Sahret Delgado (265.6)

FLINT, MI. (October 3, 2019) – Unified middleweight world champion Claressa Shields and former world champion Ivana Habazin went face to face Thursday at the final press conference two days before they battle for the WBO and WBC 154-pound world titles live on SHOWTIME from Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Flint, Mich.

Also featured at Thursday’s press conference and competing on the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast were undefeated welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis and Argentina’s Demian Daniel Fernandez, who square off in the 10-round co-feature, and unbeaten heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin and once-beaten Pavel Sour, who battle in the televised opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT

At Thursday’s press conference, Gordon Hall, SVP, Production, SHOWTIME Sports and Event Programming and Executive Producer of Saturday’s telecast, presented Claressa Shields with a $10,000 donation to the “Claressa Shields Community Project.” The project is a summer camp designed to help Flint youth learn how to cope with stress, anxiety, anger, sadness and depression, and provides educational tutoring services to dozens of children. With this $10,000 donation, Shields will surpass her current fundraising goal for the project.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, in association with T-REX BOXING PROMOTIONS, can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Center box office.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center:

CLARESSA SHIELDS

“Starting my community project with the kids and spending a lot of time with them really taught me a lot. It reminded me of the childhood that I didn’t have. My whole life has always been about boxing. That’s why these girls can’t beat me. Growing up, boys didn’t matter. Punching the bag the fastest mattered. Punching the bag the hardest mattered. Doing 25 pushups faster than the boys mattered.

“I always knew I would be the one to do it for women’s boxing. Yeah, we had Laila Ali, respect. But she can’t do for women’s boxing what I’m doing. I put a lot on the line, I started my career at 168. This fight on Saturday is going to be at 154. I had to lose a lot of weight for this fight because I cleaned out the division at 160. Every time I came out of a division, there’s somebody else telling me I’m not the greatest woman of all time. I love when they say that because I want you to come show me I’m not the greatest woman of all time. Ivana is here to do that.

“I don’t know what Ivana came here to do, but I’m telling you right now it’s going less than five rounds. She said her game plan was to stand there and bang with me. Not with muscles like this. She’s going to sleep and her coach is going to be carrying her out on a pillow.

“I watched every fight of hers. Her last six or seven fights, nothing changes. It’s the same combinations. Same hand speed. Getting caught with the same shots. When you see me box, you see improvement. I’m not coming here to Flint to play no games with her.

“I’m a 168 fighter. And I have to keep coming down to these girls’ weight because they’re scared to come see me. So I came to 154 and I came to see her. I’m going to show her. As you can see, this is the Claressa Shields show. It’s about me. There’s no friction in my camp. We are about business and we’re about the money. Pay me.”

IVANA HABAZIN

“I’m definitely ready for this fight. I had a very tough four-month training camp. This is the best preparation I’ve ever had in my life for a fight. I’m in the best shape of my life.

“I am 100 percent focused on this fight. I trained harder than I ever have before. I had the ability to work on a lot of new things. I had five different sparring partners who brought a lot to help me improve. I gave everything into this camp and I believe I will receive something in return.

“None of the pre-fight talk bothers me. I’m not going to make a big show and trash talk. For me, this is just part of the job of what I have to do before I fight. All that matters is what is going to happen in the ring.

“This win on Saturday is going to change my life. This is my biggest fight ever. She’s right now the top women’s boxer, so there couldn’t be a bigger victory.

“I didn’t come here to lose. I came here to win. I don’t want to waste my energy talking before the fight, but I just want to say I’m excited to see how happy everyone here is right now for Claressa, because they’re going to be sad on Saturday when I win.”

JARON ENNIS

“We had a great training camp and Saturday night we’re going to put on a show. We’re going to have some fun.

“I’m ready to rock and roll. Saturday night I’m going to show Flint, Mich., what I can do. This is about the next steps to the next level. To get to the elite level, that’s what we want. And the end of the day we want everyone – champions, top 15, we want everybody.

“Stylistically it’s going to be me controlling the whole fight and knowing what I want to do and having fun and eventually getting the knockout.

“I’ve been sparring a lot of bigger guys because I can’t spar guys my weight or lower because I’m too strong for them. So it’s been only bigger guys in there for sparring. Whatever he brings, we will be ready for anything.

“I appreciate everything Claressa Shields has done for boxing and bringing this show here and hopefully I pick up some of her fans.”

“I don’t think he knows what he signed up for. But we’re going to show him Saturday night. We’re going to have some fun so make sure you all tune in.”

DEMIAN DANIEL FERNANDEZ

“It’s a pleasure to be here and have this opportunity. I came here to bring a victory back to Argentina. I know that my opponent is worthy, but he’s got nothing for me.

“My heart will be the difference in this fight. I’m going to run right through him like a train. I believe that I am better in every aspect of the sport.

“I know that I’m going to bring a challenge that my opponent has never seen. I believe I’ve faced tougher competition and that will play itself out in the ring.

“I see someone who’s been treated carefully and had his record padded. This is a dream come true and it’s all going to come together on Saturday.”

JERMAINE FRANKLIN

“I’m feeling ready to go on Saturday. I changed some stuff up. I have a nice game plan. I’m going to go in there and try to chop the body down early. I’m excited, this is the closest show I’ve had to home. I have a lot of support coming to the fights. It’s always great fighting in front of friends and family but I get a little too excited sometimes. Right now, it’s about trying to stay calm and do what I came here to do.

“In boxing, there’s always a lot of distractions whether you’re fighting home or not. The biggest one is just trying to stay calm. I get a burst of adrenaline when I’m fighting at home. Other than that, I don’t let the distractions affect me because I’m dedicated.

“The journey to get to where I am now has been tough. I went through a lot of trials and tribulations. There have been downtimes. We fight until better days come. I took all my stepping stones the right way so the journey was pretty hard. But in the end, the process was good for me.

“I don’t think I’m that far away from a big opportunity on a big stage. I still have some points to prove. I need to wake some people up. But I don’t think I’m far away from a big pay day, I’m closing in.

“I would love for my next fight to be in Saginaw but that’s something I need to talk to my team about. But I think I could sell out a nice card in Saginaw. They would love to see that. I don’t think it’s a big burden representing for my city. We all show love and support to each other. Robert Simms is fighting on this card and he’s from Saginaw too. I think we all feed off each other.”

PAVEL SOUR

“I’m really happy to be here for my first time in the U.S. I’m very grateful for my team for getting me this opportunity and I’m going to make the most of it.

“Franklin is a strong fighter. He wants to go toe-to-toe, but I’m going to box him from a distance and control the fight from start to finish.

“I think that I have a lot of experience in the ring that will help me in this fight. I’ve boxed for 21 years. He was only a kid when I started in this sport.

“I feel great achieving this dream of fighting in the U.S. I’m happy to take the dream even further with a win on Saturday.”

FLINT MAYOR KAREN WEAVER

“I’m so happy to be here and the city of Flint is thrilled that the time is finally here for us to have another championship right here. Claressa said she was going to do it and we can’t wait for everybody to see what’s going to take place Saturday night.

“We also want to say thank you to Claressa for the love and support that she has shown for her hometown. We’re so grateful that there are people like you that come back home and make a mark in their community. We know that we can’t do it without you, and we are with you.”

DMITRIY SALITA, President of Salita Promotions

“October 5 is going to be a historic night of boxing. The WBO and WBC 154-pound world titles will be on the line when Claressa Shields takes on Ivana Habazin live on SHOWTIME right here at this arena in Flint, Michigan.

“The undercard is going to feature explosive fights with blue chip welterweight prospect Jaron Ennis, and Saginaw, Michigan’s Jermaine Franklin in separate bouts. This is going to be a fantastic night that the fans are going to remember for a long time.

“SHOWTIME has been instrumental in making sure that Claressa is fighting the best fights and getting the most exposure for the sport of women’s boxing.

“You should save your ticket stubs because you are going to want to show your grandkids that you were here in Flint to see Claressa Shields fight.”

MARK TAFFET, President of Taffet Media

“From the day she won gold to the day she turned pro, this is the place where Claressa always wanted to be, and it’s because of the support of everyone here and we thank you so much for that.

“When we made this fight, we knew that this was a historic fight. The opportunity to win a world title in a third weight division, faster than any fighter in history, is truly special.

“I have a lot of experience in this sport, and Claressa Shields is once in a lifetime. I wanted to help make the vision of Claressa Shields a reality. It is because of her that women’s boxing is reaching heights it has never before reached or imagined. She’s on the doorstep of achieving more history. It’s not that the sky is the limit, but there are no limits for Claressa.”

GORDON HALL, Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION

“SHOWTIME has a long history of featuring women in combat sports. Whether it was in MMA with Gina Carano, Cris Cyborg or Ronda Rousey to Laila Ali and Christy Martin in boxing. Most recently, we have the great Claressa Shields, former middleweight champion Christina Hammer, as well as Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano.

“Shields-Habazin will be the eleventh women’s bout that we’ve had on SHOWTIME since 2017 and Claressa Shields is leading the way. Claressa Shields is the best woman fighter today. She has accomplished more in a shorter period of time, dominated all of her opponents and yes, she is still getting better. And frankly, that’s scary.

“Male or female, SHOWTIME is delivering the best fighters in the best matchups and we’ve done that for 35 years. We expect the same on Saturday night. Claressa Shields is making her sixth appearance on SHOWTIME. She’s already made history, holding two division titles including unifying the middleweight division. Now, she’s looking to become the first fighter, male or female, to win three division titles within her first 10 fights.

“Ivana Habazin is an eight-year pro. She is a former welterweight champion who has more than twice the amount of professional fights as Claressa. Both fighters have top trainers and I have no doubt that this will be a fight you won’t want to miss.

“On the undercard, we have one of the top American heavyweights in Saginaw’s Jermaine Franklin, who is making his third appearance on SHOWTIME. He’s facing once-beaten Pavel Sour in a fight for recognition, to try to get their names in the ever-changing heavyweight division conversation.

“Our co-feature spotlights Philadelphia’s Jaron Ennis, who is the best prospect in boxing. No doubt. He was an amateur standout with speed and power that all will appreciate. His opponent Demian Fernandez has only one loss, but I can tell you right now he didn’t come all the way from Argentina to lose.”

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ABOUT SHIELDS VS. HABAZIN
Undisputed Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields will aim to make history by becoming the fastest fighter in boxing, male or female, to become a three-division world champion when she takes on former world champion Ivana Habazin Saturday, October 5 live on SHOWTIME.

The showdown for the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight and WBC Super Welterweight Titles headlines a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from Dort Federal Event Center in Shields’ hometown of Flint, Mich.

Hard charging super featherweight prospect Misael Lopez (11-0) is looking to close out 2019 with a bang.

The 23 year old returns to action tomorrow in Houston, Texas against Nestor Robledo on the first card promoted by Jermall and Jermell Charlo’s Lions Only Promotions in which neither of the twins is fighting on the card.

Lopez is very excited for having the opportunity to put his skills on display in a boxing town like Houston.

“It is amazing to be fighting out there. This is the type of exposure that you want as a boxer to showcase your skills. I am the ‘A’ side and this will be a chance for me to show my skills against a tough Mexican fighter who will be coming forward so I am excited to put on a show. It should be a great atmosphere,” Lopez stated.

His last fight took place in March when he blew out Richard Flores in 1 round. He is planning on this fight ending in similar fashion.

“That would be nice. I know that Ryan Garcia’s brother Sean Garcia couldn’t knock him out so that’s the goal. He fought him last and he couldn’t get him out so we are definitely looking for a knockout,” revealed Lopez.

If everything goes well Lopez hopes to have a quick turn around and get right back in action. Now that he is aligned with Oscar Vazquez and Sugar’s Boxing he expects to be much more active.

“I was supposed to fight in late September so I have been ready for a while. I can’t wait to show what I can do. Now that I have a new team and new coaches like (Mark) ‘Too Sharp’ (Johnson) everything is going in the right direction. We are hoping if everything goes right that we will get a TV fight on a PBC card later this year. That is the goal,” Lopez stated.

The 11 fight card is topped by super lightweight prospect Darwin Price taking on veteran Breidis Prescott in a bout scheduled for 10 rounds.