OUTSTANDING AMATEUR AND seven-time national champion Henry Turner is turning professional and will be promoted and managed by Frank Warren and Queensberry Promotions.

The 19-year-old from near Amersham spent all bar one year of his amateur stint at the Repton Boxing Club, having joined at the age of 12. His roll of honour includes becoming Minors National champion, Schoolboy National champion, twice Junior ABA champion, NABC champion, GB Schoolboy champion, GB Junior champion, European Junior gold medallist, European Schoolboy quarter-finalist, six-times London champion and four-times International Box Cup winner.

Turner’s amateur tenure spanned 60 fights, of which he lost only four. He describes himself as a southpaw counter-puncher and he intends to campaign professionally at super lightweight, training out of the iBox Gym in Bromley.

“I am just over the moon to get this signed after all my years of being amateur,” said Turner, an amateur teammate of Dennis McCann. “It has all finally fallen into place for me and I couldn’t ask to have a better team around me, with having Alan Smith at the iBox Gym along with Frank.

“I am thrilled with how it has worked out and hopefully I will get to make my professional debut in November. It is brilliant for me that Frank will manage me too and not many fighters get to say that.

“I am a southpaw counter-puncher off the back foot and I think that appeals to my trainer Al, who was not looking to take on any more boys as he is so busy. I went for a trial and after a couple of minutes on the pads he said he would be delighted to take me on.

“Hopefully it will be a good journey with Alan and Frank for me.”

Promoter Warren said, with a nudge towards one of British boxing’s most favourite sons, that Turner would be named after another famous Henry.

“I am delighted with this signing and he is a top little fighter with an exceptional amateur pedigree,” said the Hall of Fame promoter. “We are going to call him ‘Our ‘Enry’ and I believe he is a cracking fighter and another star in the making that we have got in our stable.”

You can follow Henry’s journey on his social media channels:

Twitter – @Henryturner_123
Instagram – /henryturner_123

LAS VEGAS (September 9, 2019) – Undefeated super lightweight prospect Kendo “Tremendo” Castaneda plans to do some early trick or treatin’ October 25th, when he headlines another installment of “RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®,” co-promoted by Joey Gilbert Promotions in association with Silver Legacy Resort Casino at THE ROW in Reno, Nevada.

The Oct. 25th show in Reno 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.

The 25-year-old Castaneda (16-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of San Antonio, Texas, is a rising star and reigning North American Boxing Association (NABA) super lightweight champion. His last fight was an impressive 10-round unanimous decision victory over dangerous knockout-artist Eudy Bernardo (24-3) last March.

“An impressive win on UFC FIGHT PASS means everything for me and my career,” said the personable Castaneda, who will be fighting outside of his native Texas for only the third time as a professional. “Getting back in the ring is just another date for me. Come October 25th, the people are in for a ‘Tremendous’ thrill, because I will portray Michael Myers on a classic Halloween Night of Boxing.”

Castaneda had approximately 120 amateur fights, highlighted by his gold-medal winning performance at the 2018 Ringside World Championships. He was also a two-time San Antonio and Texas State Golden Gloves champion (201102012), losing both times at the Golden Gloves National Championships to the eventual champion.

At 18, Castaneda decided that he’d had enough of amateur boxer and he turned pro, largely because he his style is much better suited for the pro ranks.

Castaneda will face the stiffest test of his young career, Estonia-native Stan Martyniouk (20-2, 6 KOs), who fights out of Belmont, California, the main event.

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

DALLAS (September 9, 2019) – Unbeaten IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. was honored as a special guest at the home openers of the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday and the Southern Methodist University Mustangs on Saturday as he nears his title unification against WBC Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter Saturday, September 28 in the main event of a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

“It was really exciting to feel the love from my city at the Cowboys and SMU games,” said Spence Jr. “This is a city of champions and I’m looking to stand out amongst all the stars here. I definitely know that Dallas is going to be in my corner September 28 and its’ got me even more motivated to bring another title back home.”

Spence’s big weekend first saw him take part in the pre-game coin toss as an honorary captain for SMU at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas. Spence met with the University’s leadership including President Gerald Turner and watched the hometown team defeat the University of North Texas.

On Sunday, Spence returned to the site of his March triumph over four-division champion Mikey Garcia at AT&T Stadium to watch his Dallas Cowboys in their season opener live on FOX against the New York Giants. After visiting the field pregame, Spence was show on the FOX telecast with a promo for the event on September 28 and featured on the main video screen in the stadium.

Tickets for the September 28th event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. PORTER
Spence vs. Porter pits unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. against WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter in a 147-pound title unification that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell facing unbeaten former champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez in the co-main event, unbeaten contenders Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov battling for the WBA Super Lightweight title, and rugged veteran Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and brawler John Molina Jr. competing in a 10-round welterweight fight.

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

MANCHESTER, Conn. (September 9, 2019) – If not for a critical decision four years ago, 21-year-old “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams could very well be elite amateur training to compete for a spot on the 2020 USA Boxing Olympic Team, rather than the 15-0 rising star that he is today in professional boxing.

Williams (15-0, 7 KOs), who lives in East Hartford (CT), has overcome life-altering obstacles in which his father was murdered when Mykquan was only eight months old, and the family house burned to the ground when he was 10.

Ineligible to compete for a roster spot on the 2016 USA Boxing Olympic Team because he was too young, Williams had two choices: remain an amateur for four years without any guarantees of qualifying for the Olympics, or get a jump start on his professional career. He chose the latter route and hasn’t looked back.

Williams was a decorated amateur whose style, in retrospect, is much better suited for pro boxing than the amateurs. He had a 45-13 amateur record, highlighted by three gold-medal performances at the Ringside World Championships, in addition to capturing top honors at the National PAL and National Silver Glove championships.

“I was too young for the last one,” Williams explained his decision to turn pro when he did.” Williams explained. I ended my amateur career after there were scoring changes. I lost some tough decisions. I decided to take the next step and go pro to get paid. My style was more suitable for the pros. I don’t throw 100 punches a round; I pick my spots when I have openings.

“I didn’t want to wait several years. I chose to turn pro (when he was a senior at Prince Tech). I’m already 15-0, climbing the rankings, and I’m getting paid to do this. I was meant to do this.”

Williams is the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) United States super lightweight champion, rated No. 5 by the United States Boxing Association (USBA), and No. 12 by the North American Boxing Federation (NABF).

Williams is promoted by Lou DiBella, managed by Jackie Kallen (pictured above to left), and trained by Paul Cichon (far right).

“I believed that Mykey was ready to turn pro,” Kallen commented. “Under Paul’s tutelage he was far enough advanced and eager to tackle the pros. His style was perfectly suited for the pros and at 18 years old he was ready to take the leap. His youthful good looks made him an ideal young prospect.”

My concern at that time was the Olympic Team was no sure thing,” added Cichon, who has trained Williams for the past 10 years. I had the confidence in Mykey, but the risk wasn’t worth the gain. We decided to go pro.”

Four years later, instead of competing against America’s elite amateur boxers in his weight class – Keyshawn Davis, Bruce Carrington and Dalis Kaleiopu — at the 2020 Olympic Trials and USA Boxing’s National Championships, December 7-15, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Williams is one of the top 21-and-under prospects in boxing.

INFORMATION:

Twitter: @MarvelousMyke, @JackieKallen
Instagram: @M.mkw_, @jackie.Kallen
Facebook: /MykquanWilliams, /PaulCichon, /JackieKallen

Eddie Hearn:

Good afternoon everyone, thank you for being here today for a very special press conference ahead of our huge show on October 26 at The O2 Arena, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and DAZN.

What a card, what a main event and what a group of fighters we have here today. The Unification match up, the Ali Trophy, The World Boxing Super Series Final between Regis Prograis the WBC Diamond, WBA World Champion and Josh Taylor the IBF World 140lb champion. It’s an absolutely brilliant fight, I was lucky enough to be there in Glasgow when Josh Taylor won the World title against Baranchyk in the Semi-Finals and I am delighted to be working alongside Kalle Sauerland and the WBSS to bring this to Sky Sports Box Office on a huge card.

You have only got to look at the names, I feel a bit bad that these guys are on a bottom table if there was such a thing. Three-weight World Champion Rick Burns, former World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby, Conor Benn, Yves Ngabu, Lawrence Okolie brilliant European Cruiserweight match-up as well and of course Derek Chisora against Joseph Parker. The two came head-to-head in Los Angeles last week, we’ll be bringing you exclusive content of that. Parker is now in camp, he’s underway.

Adam Smith:

What a monster, monster show it really is a fantastic one. October 26, at The O2, we were treated by Vasiliy Lomachenko’s brilliance and Luke Campbells superb display as well and an amazing atmosphere the other week. Its a special place the O2 and it is going to be lit up by this card. As Eddie said the bottom table shouldn’t be. Ricky Burns is a three-weight World Champion that we have worked with for many years, Lee Selby, utter class down there. A fantastic European Title fight and Conor Benn is going great guns. Look up here, I know we are missing Joseph Parker but Derek Chisora and Joseph Parker is a wonderful Heavyweight fight in the blue-ribbon division. It’s a mouthwatering fight, Derek finding form even at this stage of his career and you never quite know what you’re going to get, what a terrific knockout against Artur Szpilka last time. Joseph Parker is young and hungry and wants to play a real part in this division.

As for this one, the World Super Series Final, Kalle I am so glad you have brought the guys to us. I’ve wanted Josh Taylor on Sky for so many years. We had him on the Semi-Final, that was fantastic. I wasn’t there that night in Scotland as we were in America but I cannot wait to be ringside for this. This young man to my right Regis Prograis could be a real superstar of this sport. He is dangerous, exciting and unbeaten like they both are. It’s a terrific top of the bill and I think it is one of the best cards Eddie you have put on in a long time. We’re not going to miss this one.

Kalle Sauerland: 

It’s great to be in London, it’s great to be putting this fantastic Ali Trophy final on and we have to thank Matchroom and Sky Sports Box Office for providing this great platform at The O2 in London. The atmosphere there is incredible and is fitting for this super final. This is it, the Champions League of boxing, the Super-Lightweight final. As a fan this is my peak, this is the one that when we set it out this was the golden final. The ticket to the Ali Trophy and it is a dream to have both guys, two undefeated and very young fighters with huge personalities. Two fighters who will come forward, both slick in different ways and both amazing to work with. It’s not often you see the best going against the best, this is one of the fights of the year and is an amazing card from top to bottom.

Conor Benn:

My career has been a rollercoaster. It feels like I have been pro for a long while but really it’s only been four or five years. It’s been so dramatic but I know that I have Britain behind me and all these learning fights are going to put me in good stead for the future. I have been dropped twice and managed to get back up off the canvas, put the other opponent down twice, boxed ten rounds, been cut and had injuries all these things. I am only 22 so when I am 25, 26 these things won’t be anything new to me so as far as I am aware, I’m on course and I’m excited to have a great year.

As I get older my man strength is coming and people are going to get laid out clean. They are not going to get back up! My last fight was expected to be a hard fight and when I looked at him I thought I’m in trouble here and then he came out flying in the first round and I managed to get him out of there. If people want to come and have it with me I will have it back with them. If I go down, then they’re going down with me. I’m not worried who they put in front of me, whoever it is there it will be the same outcome and I am going to go out there and do one job and one job only.

Yves Ngabu:

I came here one year ago to the UK with a plan, the first was to win my fight and the second was to fight the number one from the UK who is Lawrence Okolie. Lawrence is a good fighter but I know where I want to go and to get where I want to get – these are the things I have to do and get out of my way. 

I am focused on my work and we are going to see on October 26 how I am going to beat him. He is a good fighter, he is tall and strong and everything until now he has done perfectly but I believe I can beat him and I believe I am stronger than him.

Lawrence Okolie:

I’m happy to be here, shoutout to Josh Taylor. This is going to be the third Champion I have boxed. I have beaten the British Champion, beaten the Commonwealth Champion and I am looking forward to beating the European Champion next. I’ve seen a lot of interviews with him and I like the way he speaks, he speaks very confidently. I’m just looking forward to going through training camp and then going to work.

It is going to be a very exciting fight, he has got a style which is opposite to mine. He is a come-forward fighter who also knows how to box with good counter-punching. There is going to be a lot of things to deal with on the night but I will deal with them all comfortably and go on from there. The most important thing is to make weight in seven weeks and we can go from there.

Lee Selby:

The O2 has been great to me and I have boxed there more than any other venue. I won the Lonsdale belt there, won and defended my World title and now I am back there on October 26. I’ve got a tough opponent in front of me, Ricky Burns is a former three-weight World Champion and to be a World Champion and defend it once you have got to be a great fighter, to do it twice you have got to be brilliant and to do it at three different weights, you’re elite. I have got the upmost respect for Ricky Burns and we shared the ring back in 2014. He got me in for sparring in preparation for his fight with Crawford and from what I can remember it was great sparring, up and down. After each session, everyone in the gym would give us a standing ovation so if the sparring is anything to go by then we are in for a treat.

A few years back when I was British Champion making Featherweight was a real struggle and I remember you asking me Eddie, “how do you make the weight?”. The sacrifices and some of the stuff I had to do to make the weight you wouldn’t believe. Losing the World title was very upsetting but it was a weight lifted off my shoulders, I can fight at a more comfortable weight and I’m in the gym and feeling good.

Ricky Burns:

I’ve finally got a fight over the line, it has been a frustrating year for myself. We have had a couple of fights being spoke about but they fell through. My last fight was in November last year but we have pulled it out the bag with this one. I know that I am in for a tough fight, as Lee said, we sparred before and he came up to help me when I was boxing Crawford and I can always remember when we were sparring I said to him he “you’re so big for a Featherweight, how do you do it?”. It was competitive sparring and like I said, on the night the best man will win. I just feel like I am going out there to do a job, training has been going well so far and I can’t wait for October 26.

David Haye:

We know what Parker brings to the table, he is well established. More importantly he holds that all important win over Andy Ruiz Jr who is arguably the number one Heavyweight on the planet after the crazy stoppage victory he got over AJ in New York which I was ringside for. For me, Derek getting that win against Parker means more than just a win. It really catapults him up there to the top players in the division and he has shown time and time again that he can come again. Last time out against Artur Szpilka his training camp hadn’t gone well, sparring was a struggle but he managed to get it together in the last two sparring sessions. Fortunately the universe works in strange ways and I was in the Hayemaker gym round the corner today watching Derek Sparring for the first time since that fight in his first real war sparring and he is back. He is in a better place now seven weeks out than he was on fight night last time out. The fact he hasn’t had long out the gym and is back working hard means he is a great spot and he is going to build on what we brought to Artur Szpilka at the O2, an arena where he has a great history. Parker is in shape and is going to come to win this fight and I think it is going to be an absolute barnstormer. 

Dave Coldwell will no longer be training Derek Chisora because of a logistical issue in the sense that Dave couldn’t come down to London and Derek wasn’t able to get up to Dave. We will make an announcement in the coming weeks who will be in the corner but if sparring is anything to go by you are in for an absolute treat and Joseph Parker would never have had the heat that is going to be brought to him on October 26.

Derek Chisora:

I’m bringing war, I’m not playing. This is my show. Boxing is thriving because of the Heavyweights. Mike Tyson said it when AJ knocked out Klitschko, the money is back in the division. I want more money if I’m not headlining the show!

Josh Taylor:

I’m really looking forward to fighting for the first time in London, headlining at The O2 and I am so excited for it, I can’t wait.

I am fully confident going in to this fight. I am bigger than him, stronger, quicker and punch just as hard – I can beat him in every department. If he comes and tries to walk me down then I believe that he will walk onto a shot and I will get him out of there, if not I can outbox him for the full 12 rounds. I am fully confident I can win this fight either way It goes so I am happy and excited to be here. I have always wanted to box on a big show in London and I’ve been to watch shows here in the past. I am so excited to be headlining and to be a part of a great night.

I believe myself and Regis are one and two in the division – we’re the two guys to beat. We will prove this on October 26 and I feel like this is my time to shine. I can’t see him beating me at all and I am super confident. However it goes you will see a Josh Taylor win, I can’t see anything other than a win for myself.

Barry McGuigan MBE:

These are the two best Super-Lightweight fighters in the world. Prograis is a tremendous puncher, very aggressive and he can box on the back foot too – he is very exciting to watch. Josh Taylor has improved rapidly since he has turned pro. We have moved him very aggressively and I think that he is the best 140lb fighter in the world. 

Regis Prograis:

I am so glad to be here and I am so excited for October 26. It has been a dream for me for a long time to come and fight in London, the fans over here are some of the best in the world. For me, there is no animosity towards anybody and most fighters don’t get this chance in a lifetime. You have got four things on the line, my title, his title, the Ali Trophy and the Ring Magazine belt. I had a late start but a lot of fighters have been fighting for 20 or 30 years and never have got this opportunity. For me to be here is the opportunity of a life-time and this is about personal legacy right now.

To be getting this chance in London, at The O2 – I can’t wait! This is number one and number two, two undefeated fighters in their prime, both champions – sometimes you have two champions but they’re not number one and number two but this time it’s two prime undefeated guys. This is a huge show and I am so excited to be a part of it. Everybody that I have fought was supposed to be an even, 50-50 fight but I dominated. He is taller and longer than me but the tale of the tape doesn’t matter to me. You can’t determine my hook by the tale of the tape or my boxing IQ. I don’t just want to repeat what he said but I really cannot see how he can beat me. I am not being cocky or arrogant but I just can’t see it. He’s been hurt in his last fight and he was dropped too. The past is the past and this is going to be me and him and I think he will bring his A game like I will – this is going to be one hell of a fight.

I am not going to predict what round I will win I am just going to go out there and do my thing. Just like I always say, I go out there and I have fun and I do my thing. If I hurt him or knock him out I don’t know but so far I have been dominating and that’s what I plan to do on October 26.

Sam Katkovski:

We are so glad that everything got sorted out and was finalised – we cannot wait for October 26. We are coming to fight and will be finishing our camp over here in the UK – we’re looking forward to a great fight. Regis is special in and outside of the ring and to be able to fight on such a massive show is amazing and the winner will establish themselves in the P4P rankings. The winner potentially goes on to fight to be Undisputed for all four belts and that will be Regis Prograis. Every time he has told how he was going to do something that’s how it happened – all I am expecting is the same on October 26.

Star Boxing has an exciting regional title fight that will co-feature the September 20 card at The Paramount. Dominican Republic native, JUNIOR “BOMBITA” ALMONTE (12-0 9KO’S), will be defending his WBC FECARBOX Bantamweight title against a talented Michigan super bantamweight powerhouse, ERNESTO GARZA III (10-3 6KO’S). The critically acclaimed “Rockin’ Fights”series will be headlined by Long Island’s own undefeated super welterweight, TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (Elmont, NY 10-0 7KO’s).

Through trials and tribulations both fighters have earned their way onto the September 20 card at The Paramount. Junior Almonte, was an outstanding amateur and shows great promise for the Bantamweight division. As an amateur he had a record for 92 wins and 8 defeats with 4 victories over highly respected Olympians. Almonte is world ranked by WBC (#24) . In Almonte’s most recent bout against ANGELO “EL OLIMPICO” MUNOZ, Almonte showcased his power with a first-round TKO. Almonte is proving to be a knockout machine who is prepared to take the world of boxing by storm, starting with his United States debut. On September 20th, Almonte for the first time in his young and bright career will fight on American soil at The Paramount and will be looking to finish Garza like he finished his previous six of seven opponents.

Almonte had this to say about the great opportunity that is ahead of him, “The first phase of my training was in the Dominican Republic, and the second phase has been in the US and everything is going well. I am going to do my best to Impress the American fans and I am thankful to be on American soil defending my title. God willing, there will be greater things ahead. I want to do a good job and show that there is talent in the Dominican Republic, and I am just very happy for this opportunity.”

However, standing in Almonte’s way is, Ernesto Garza III, who is more than ready for his shot at the WBC FECARBOX Bantamweight title. Garza’s pedigree and experience actually exceeds that of Almonte. As an amateur, Garza holds many National titles including the 2008 national Golden Gloves title at 119 pounds. He finished third in 2009, then fought at 125 pounds in the U.S. National Championships, also finishing third. As a pro, Garza has taken on top prospects Including several bouts on Showtime. Garza has fought at weights over 130 lbs, seeking money and opportunity but is now fighting Almonte as his natural 118 lbs division. In his latest fight Garza dominated JENO TONTE by TKO in round 1. Garza knows a lot is on the line for him as well, and a win over undefeated Almonte on September 20, will skyrocket him up the world rankings in the bantamweight division.

Garza had this to say about his co-feature bout on September 20, “First off I would have to thank my Lord and Savior and Jesus Christ for blessing me with this big opportunity and victory and Split-T-Management Davud McWater and Joe Quiambao for making this fight happen. This will be just the beginning from me and it feels great to win a title that would put me in the ranking of the WBC. The fans can expect the best out of me to give it my all in the ring. I’ll give the fans what they want to see. I’ll be the one forcing the fight. He’s never fought anybody like me before, my resume speaks for itself. It’s gonna be a fight and the fans can expect me to come out on top.”

These hard punching bantamweights come from different parts of the world, but on September 20th they will meet at The Paramount for what promises to be a thrilling fight. For Junior it’s an opportunity that will open doors for him in the United States. For Garza, it’s a shot to prove he the heralded prospect that he was considered when he came out of the US amateur program at 118 lbs. This will be a promising fight and will leave little room for imagination.

CEO of Star Boxing, JOE DEGUARDIA, had this to say about the bout, “We are very excited to bring Junior Almonte to the United States against one of the toughest possible guys out there. Almonte has dominated in the Dominican Republic, and he has his WBC FECARBOX Title to show for it. But Garza is a special fighter himself. This is an eagerly anticipated fights by ‘those in the know’ as Garza is a very experienced and tough known quality fighter. I expect a thrilling fight for the fans at The Paramount come September 20.”
BUY TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS” AT THE PARAMOUNT HERE
TICKETS START AT $50 | FIGHT NIGHT: FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 20

BENSALEM, PA- The action is sure to pick up at Parx Casino® when Omar Kabary Salem meets Jamaal Davis in the co-main event of Xcite Fight Night 5 on Friday, Sept. 20.

This semifinal bout will pit a fighter with a young and promising career in Salem against one with a lengthy resume in Davis. A pro since 2003, Davis has more fights on his card than Salem has rounds in the ring. He’ll take that experience to the Xcite Center along with the momentum of being active recently. This will be his third fight in the last sixth months.

“Being able to pick and get right back into the motion of things has been fun.” Davis said. As far as the veteran’s game plan for the young southpaw, he said, “Reflexes are everything, we gotta wear this kid down and box this kid.”

While Davis (18-5-1, 7K0s) comes into the fight with the edge in experience, Salem (9-0, 4K0s) will have the physical edge, being both taller and having recently fought in a higher weight class. In his last time out at Parx Casino, the southpaw impressed the crowd with a quick first-round knockout of Jacob Fox.

“I’m a boxer-puncher, I move around a lot but at the same time I can get it in and scrap if he wants to.” Salem said.

He’ll be gunning for another impressive showing in his return to Xcite Fight Night. The Brooklyn-based Salem isn’t afraid of coming down to Philadelphia for a fight, and he relishes the opportunity.

“I love it, I love competing with Philadelphia, they have a lot of competition,” he said. “I like the fans, too. The people in Philly, they love boxing.”

The main event will follow. Steven Ortiz (10-0), the recently crowned Pennsylvania state lightweight champion takes on a former Ohio state champion in the game challenger, Alejandro Salinas (10-2). Their lightweight showdown is a showcase of two young, rising talents.

The undercard fights each feature an undefeated fighter looking to take the next step in their careers. Recent Lou DiBella signee Joshafat Ortiz will be try to move to 7-0 as he takes on Andrew “Sweet Pea” Bentley, who is riding his own three-fight winning streak into the bout.

Daiyaan Butt (4-0) is returning once again and looking for his third straight knockout. He’ll face his most experience opponent to date in Latorie “War Machine” Woodberry in a super lightweight fight.

Also making a return is Jan Czerklewicz. The powerful Polish light heavyweight is back for his second turn at Parx Casino, and will be the welcome wagon for Nigerian-born Afunwa King’s pro debut.

ABOUT SEPTEMBER 20th

This event is only for adults age 21 and older. Tickets priced at $50, $75 and $100 are on sale at Joe Hand Promotions (215-364-9000). You can also purchase tickets from the Hold My Ticket Call Center at (1-877-466-3404) and at www.parxcasino.com

ABOUT PARX CASINO®

Parx Casino® is owned and operated by Greenwood Racing, Inc. and is the #1 revenue generating casino property in Pennsylvania. Parx Casino® is conveniently located 20 minutes north of center city Philadelphia, I-95 exit 37 or PA Turnpike exit 351 (westbound), exit 352 (eastbound) on Street Road in Bensalem Bucks County. Parx features over 200,000 square feet of gaming; 3,270 slot machines and 124 live table games; 48 poker tables in custom built private room; live racing & simulcast action; Xcite Center, 1,500 seat live entertainment venue, Liberty Bell Gastropub, farm-to-fork inspired menu; Oliveto, New York City style pizza and Italian Classics; Parx Grill, an upscale signature restaurant; Foodies quick service dining; Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab House and SportsBar; Jax sports bar; Circle Bar; Bambu Noodle House; The Lucky Cheese ~ gourmet grilled cheese eatery; XLounge, luxury casino lounge and complimentary parking for over 5,000 cars. In 2019, Parx Casino® continues to grow and entertain the region with the launch of sports betting and online gaming. For more information on Parx Casino®, visit www.parxcasino.com.

New York, NY (September 6, 2019) Following his victory on August 23 in Tampa, FL, DiBella Entertainment’s 25-year-old undefeated heavyweight prospect Amron “The Sandman” Sands (9-0, 8 KOs) returned to his native Bahamas to visit family when Hurricane Dorian struck. With his countrymen, relatives and friends left to recover from the effects of the destruction, Sands has since done all he can to offer his assistance and help the relief efforts.

“What happened to the Bahamas was devastating and my heavyweight, Amron Sands, was among the many thousands of people personally affected by this tragedy,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “He stayed behind to weather the storm with his family to help them and others stay safe and healthy through the devastation. Amron has continued to help by donating fresh water, clothing and other important items. There are many great relief organizations to donate to, including AllHandsandHearts.org, and DiBella Entertainment supports their efforts.”

“I went back to the Bahamas shortly after my last fight to spend time with my family. About a week later, Hurricane Dorian touched down and ravaged the islands,” said Sands. “My father’s house in Nassau was flooded and left without power and my seventy-year-old grandparents’ home in Freeport was absolutely destroyed. They are currently living in a shelter right now, as the airport in Freeport is shut down and the only way in and out is via helicopter.

“After the hurricane hit, I moved into a hotel for a few days on Paradise Island. Even with the hotel built at a higher elevation in case of situations like this, the pouring rain was still beating down through the windows, and hotel personnel made everyone on the ground floor move up to at least the third floor. A few friends of mine displaced by the storm came by my room to use the shower and sleep on the floor. I have other friends still sleeping in their cars.

“When I left the Bahamas to head back to Orlando, the airport in Nassau looked like a crowded hospital with people bandaged up and lying on the floor hoping to get out. My sister and I have been bringing packages of water, canned goods, clothes and other helpful supplies to the Bahamas Air terminal at Orlando Airport, where they have been transporting items back to the Bahamas for people in need. Anyone local can go to their drop-off location to donate. I’ll be heading back to the Bahamas myself as soon as I can to help with the cleanup and rebuilding process. I also strongly support hurricane relief groups like AllHandsandHearts.org and I encourage anyone that is capable to please donate and help those affected by this storm.”

Lance Pugmire, of The Athletic, detailed Sands’ extensive relief work in a story that can be read HERE.

The heavy-handed Sands turned professional in 2017 and has scored eight knockouts in his first nine fights, all coming within the first two rounds.
About All Hands and Hearts/Hurricane Dorian
Disaster Profile — Hurricane Dorian battered the Bahamas as a slow-moving category 5 hurricane, with heavy rains, damaging winds and severe storm surges. As Dorian pulls away from the Bahamas and moves up the US Atlantic coast, it has weakened to a category 2 hurricane.
Our Work — Our Disaster Assessment Response Team is prepared to deploy to the Bahamas. Given our 14+ years of experience, having worked in more than 100 disasters, we recognize that our team should not move in until the hurricane has passed, local authorities have signaled that search and rescue is winding down, and they can safely arrive via the airport. All funds donated will be used to help the impacted communities and our experienced team’s preparation will ensure we effectively and efficiently provide needed help. Additionally, our US assessment team has staged in Georgia, in anticipation of Dorian’s potential impact on the US coast. They are prepared to head into affected areas to perform ground assessments as soon as it is safe to do so. We will continue to update our website so please check back for the latest information periodically.

Devin Haney is thrilled to have the chance to land the WBC Interim World Lightweight title when he faces Zaur Abdullaev at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York on Friday September 13, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK. 
TICKETS START AT JUST $30 (PLUS FEES) AND ARE AVAILABLE FROM TICKETMASTER HERE
Haney (22-0 14 KOs) arrived in New York last night having finished training camp at home in Las Vegas, and has a spring in his step after his final eliminator clash with Abdullaev (11-0 7 KOs) was given added spice by the WBC adding the Interim title to the spoils.

Pound-for-pound star Vasiliy Lomachenko added the WBC strap to his WBA and WBO crowns with victory over Luke Campbell in London last weekend, and the winner next weekend will be in pole position to face the Ukrainian for the full title.

“The WBC Interim World Championship means a lot to me,” said Haney. “Some people kept labeling me a prospect when I knew I was so much more. Being able to fight for an Interim World title means everything. This not only makes me the WBC mandatory for Vasiliy Lomachenko, but I’m able to do Interim title defenses until Loma is ready to fight. I believe the winner of Haney vs Abdullaev is in a really good position with the WBC.

“I know Abdullaev is focused, he’s been at the top of the rankings for a while now, so I know he’s ready to fight. He’s an undefeated fighter, who has beaten some quality opposition, so I take him very seriously. I’m just very excited to face Abdullaev because it will show the world my skills and why I am the new face of the sport.

“Training camp has been great. We started strength and conditioning with Coach Reggie at Phase 1. I really got stronger and I can feel the difference. I spent the next portion of camp at the SNAC System facility in the Bay Area working with Victor Conte. There I worked on my speed and explosiveness with well renowned track coach Remi Korchemny. I’ve had a world class training camp, with everything from strength and conditioning, to tremendous sparring, included with a lot of rest and recovery. This will be another memorable performance like my last fight on DAZN.”

Haney’s clash with Abdullaev is part of a huge night of action as record-breaking seven-weight World champion Amanda Serrano challenges WBO World Featherweight champion Heather Hardy in an all-Brooklyn affair, brought to you by DiBella Entertainment in association with Matchroom Boxing USA.

Serrano (36-1-1 27 KOs) conquered her seventh weight class at the Hulu Theater in title in January when the Puerto Rican destroyed Eva Voraberger inside the opening round to claim the vacant WBO Super-Flyweight title.

Serrano held the WBO Featherweight strap in 2016 before vacating it then her sister Cindy picked it up later that year. Hardy (22-0 4 KOs) was next in line to win the vacant title in October in a rematch against Shelley Vincent in the Hulu Theater. Hardy put boxing on hold to return to MMA in June with an outing at Bellator 222 at Madison Square Garden but returns to boxing to go head-to-head with her fellow Brooklynite.

The Heavyweight landscape remains a hot one and there’s a great 50-50 clash on the card as Michael Hunter challenges Sergey Kuzmin for the WBA Intercontinental title. Hunter (17-1 12 KOs) holds the International strap with the WBA having KO’d Alexander Ustinov in Monte Carlo in November and defended that with a second round KO of Fabio Maldonado in Maryland in May. The 31 year old is rapidly rising in the rankings and can take a huge leap towards World title action with a win but faces a crunch challenge in the form of Kuzmin (15-0 11 KOs).

The unbeaten Russian puts the strap he won at Wembley Stadium in London in September against David Price and first saw off LaRon Mitchell and then Joey Dawejko in successful Stateside defenses. With Kuzmin ranked #5 and Hunter #8 with the WBA, the victor in New York will be knocking on the door for a title shot, raising the stakes in this pick’em match-up, in association with World of Boxing.
 Tickets are on sale now starting from just $30 plus fees and available here: https://www1.ticketmaster.com/event/3B0057098391108F?dma_id=345

LAS VEGAS (September 6, 2019) – Rising star and undefeated lightweight contender, Devin “The Dream” Haney (22-0, 14 KOs), has wrapped up training camp for his upcoming showdown with Zaur Abdullaev (11-0, 7 KOs).

Haney vs. Abdullaev, promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Devin Haney Promotions, will be a 12-round main event bout for the WBC interim lightweight championship on Friday September 13 at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

Haney, who will be making his first appearance at “The Mecca of Boxing” – Madison Square Garden, will look to make it a memorable one as he has plans to take over the lightweight division.

TICKETS START AT JUST $30 (PLUS FEES) AND ARE AVAILABLE FROM TICKETMASTER HERE

Here is what Haney had to say about the upcoming fight:

On his upcoming fight against Zaur Abdullaev:

“I know Abdullaev is focused, he’s been at the top of the rankings for a while now, so I know he’s ready to fight. He’s an undefeated fighter, who has beaten some quality opposition, so I take him very seriously. I’m just very excited to face Abdullaev because it will show the world my skills and why I am the new face of the sport.”

On his recent training camp:

“Training camp has been great. We started strength and conditioning with Coach Reggie at Phase 1. I really got stronger and I can feel the difference. I spent the next portion of camp at the SNAC System facility in the Bay Area working with Victor Conte. There I worked on my speed and explosiveness with well renowned track coach Remi Korchemny. I’ve had a world class training camp, with everything from strength and conditioning, to tremendous sparring, included with a lot of rest and recovery. This will be another memorable performance like my last fight on DAZN.”

On fighting for the WBC interim lightweight title:

“The WBC Interim World Championship means a lot to me. Some people kept labeling me a prospect when I knew I was so much more. Being able to fight for an Interim World Title means everything. This not only makes me the WBC mandatory for Vasiliy Lomacheno, but I’m able to do Interim Title defenses, until Loma is ready to fight. I believe the winner of Haney vs Abdullaev is in a really good position with the WBC.”

On headlining at Madison Square Garden on DAZN?

“This is something I’ve always dreamed about for sure. MSG is the most historic and iconic arena in all of sports. I’m headlining a card full of great fights. Heather Hardy (22-0) vs Amanda Serrano (36-1) for the WBO World Female Featherweight Title will be a very exciting fight. My good friend from Las Vegas, Michael Hunter (17-1) vs Sergey Kuzmin (15-0) will be a terrific fight as well. There are only two losses between all six of the fighters on the main card. This is my first time at the Hulu Theater, and I’m going to put on a helluva show. Everyone should get their tickets now, because it’s going to be a great night of boxing and entertainment.

OAKLAND, Calif. (September 6, 2019) – Undefeated rising star Mario “El Azteca” Barrios is deep into training camp for the biggest fight of his professional career as he prepares to battle fellow unbeaten Batyr Akhmedov for the WBA Super Lightweight title Saturday, September 28 as part of the FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The 24-year-old Barrios will fight for the title, look to earn a career-best win and reach a milestone in his professional journey that dates back to 2013. After competing at featherweight and super featherweight, the 5’11” Barrios moved up to 140-pounds in 2016 and has been on an eight-fight knockout streak since.

“I’ve worked my whole life to get into this position,” said Barrios. “Fighting for my first world title is a dream come true and I won’t be denied. This is my time to shine and show the world that I’m the best super lightweight in the world.”

Barrios’ years of experience have led him to one of the biggest stages in boxing, a pay-per-view event in the fight hub that is Los Angeles, with a chance to put on a star-making performance and officially announce his arrival at the championship level.

“Every fight keeps getting bigger and bigger and this is the biggest one yet being on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Shawn Porter pay-per-view,” said Barrios. “My goal is to steal the show and give all the fans watching their money’s worth. I’m grateful for this opportunity to perform on the FOX Sports platform and I want to thank everyone for believing in me.”

Standing in Barrios’ way is the 28-year-old Akhmedov, who’s already reached this point in his career in just seven pro fights after a stellar amateur career that included representing Turkey in the 2016 Olympics. With two unbeaten fighters looking for their first title, it has the makings of a memorable duel.

“We’ve both had a lot of time to prepare for this fight so the fans can expect an explosive night of boxing when Batyr Akhmedov and I step in the ring,” said Barrios. “He’s a southpaw with a lot of power and he has good footwork. It’s going to be a clash of two fighters who are going to leave everything in the ring. Once he feels my power, we’ll see how he reacts.”

Barrios is currently in training for the September 28 clash working in the Bay Area with renowned coach Virgil Hunter. Barrios’ knockout streak also coincides with the time that he has worked with Hunter, all leading up to this first title fight.

“Training camp is going great,” said Barrios. “Like always I started off training back home in San Antonio with my dad Martin Barrios. Then I headed off to train with Virgil Hunter in the Bay Area, where I do all my boxing training at his gym. Training at the SNAC facility with Victor Conte is another important part of my regimen. Everyone has got me in tremendous shape and I’ll be ready to let my hands fly on fight night.”

# # #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. PORTER
Spence vs. Porter pits unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. against WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter in a 147-pound title unification that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell facing unbeaten former champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez in the co-main event, unbeaten contenders Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov battling for the WBA Super Lightweight title, and rugged veteran Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and brawler John Molina Jr. competing in a 10-round welterweight fight.

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

Salita Promotions proudly announces the signing of current IBO Women’s Super Welterweight World Champion Hannah Rankin to a promotional contract.

The first Scottish woman in history to win a boxing world title, Rankin (7-3, 1 KO), from Glasgow, is a well-known celebrity athlete in the UK where she headlines sold-out shows, moonlights as a commentator on Box Nation and her fights are shown live on the BBC.

Rankin didn’t start boxing until the relatively late age of 21, but her wealth of natural talent quickly caught the eye of respected London-based trainer Noel Callan. After an undefeated stint on the UK’s unlicensed boxing circuit, Rankin turned professional at age 26 and in just 10 fights, has already held the WBC Silver 160-lb title in addition to her world championship.

Hungry to learn from the best, the now 29-year-old Rankin has traveled the globe to spar with a long list of world-class female fighters including Cecilia Breakhus, Christina Hammer, Mikaela Lauren, Klara Svensson, Kali Reis, Elin Cederroos and Ewa Brodnicka. In 2018, the fearless Rankin stepped up in weight to face two of the sport’s best, performing admirably against current WBA Super Middleweight Champion Alicia Napoleon at 168 lbs and against women’s superstar and unified 160-lb champion Claressa Shields in separate fights.

Remarkably, Rankin also studied Bassoon at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and passed a worldwide audition process to attend The Royal Academy of Music. She also has a total of three degrees, a BMUS Hons, Master of Arts and a Professional Diploma.

Rankin will make her debut under the Salita Promotions banner on Saturday, October 5, on the undercard of the Claressa Shields vs. Ivana Habazin battle for the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight Championship at the Dort Federal Event Center in Flint, Mich. She is scheduled to face veteran Erin Toughill.

“I’m delighted to have signed a promotional deal with Salita Promotions,” said Rankin. “I admire Dmitriy’s support of women’s boxing. I love fighting in America and I can’t wait to give all my Scottish fans living in America the opportunity to watch and cheer their champion as I start this chapter in my career. I’m looking forward to fighting and getting back under the lights on October 5 and being part of an historic night for women’s boxing in Flint, Michigan. I can’t wait!”

“I’m thrilled that Hannah has signed a promotional deal with Salita Promotions for US-based fights,” said Mark Taffet, President of Mark Taffet Media and co-manager of Hannah Rankin, along with Sam Kynoch of Kynoch Boxing. “Dmitriy Salita’s demonstrated track record of success in women’s boxing is second to none, and I look forward to working with Dmitriy, Hannah Rankin, and Sam Kynoch to lift women’s boxing even higher.”

Promoter Dmitriy Salita, a champion of women’s boxing and one of the main driving forces behind its recent resurgence, says that Rankin adds a unique presence to his growing stable.

“I’m excited to have Hannah Rankin join the Salita Promotions team. She is a world-class fighter and person — a champion and young woman with the heart of a lion who exemplifies the best of women’s boxing,” said Salita. “Salita Promotions is proud to represent Scotland’s boxing bassoonist and first female champion and looks forward to a great future with her.”

London (6 September 2019) Classy super-featherweight Alex Dilmaghani aims to punch himself into the 130lb world rankings and line up a world title fight when he faces the dangerous Nicaraguan Francisco Fonseca at Mote Hall, Mote Park, Maidstone, on Saturday 28th September, live on terrestrial free-to-air Channel 5 in the UK.

A fistful of fighters from the home isles already feature in the 130lb world rankings, but criminally, the super talented 28 year old southpaw – who is now undefeated in his last 15 starts spanning well over eight years – isn’t among them.

However, the dashing ‘Dilma’ – now under the guidance of renowned promoter Mick Hennessy – is determined to show he deserves to be listed alongside the best in the division by scalping the lethal Latino.

The 25 year old from the nation that delivered ring legends Alexis Arguello, Ricardo Mayorga and ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez has been bettered just twice in a 28 fight pro career that has brought a daunting 19 stoppage wins.

Both reverses on Fonseca’s slate came in IBF world title tilts on megashows over in the USA. Baltimore’s Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis stopped him in eight (contentious) on the Mayweather-McGregor undercard in Las Vegas (2017), while Philadelphia’s Tevin Farmer edged him out on points over 12 on a ‘Canelo’ Alvarez card at the hallowed Madison Square Garden, New York last December. Fonseca has rebounded with a hat-trick of impressive stoppage wins in 2019 and is clearly a major player within the division.

Dilmaghani, a Southampton University law graduate who conquered his craft under arguably the sport’s finest contemporary coach ‘Nacho’ Beristain at the world renowned Romanza Gym in Mexico City, is positively salivating at the prospect of breaking out into genuine world class.

‘Many other leading contenders turned down the opportunity to face me on this date but Fonseca showed he’s a true gladiator by stepping up,’ stated Dilmaghani, who copped rave reviews for his eight round slaughter of 25-2-1 Slovakian Martin Parlagi – who had never been stopped – in his first British start for almost six years in late May.

He added, ’But Fonseca will be dealt with accordingly. I’ve stopped seven of my last 10 and will certainly be seeking an eighth here. I expect another fantastic win on free to air terrestrial TV that’ll expose my talents and take me a step closer to the world title fight that is my destiny.’

Hennessy is delighted to bring national free-to-air broadcaster Channel 5 to Kent for a big night of boxing. He said, “I’m really going to be banging the drum for Alex now and with Channel 5’s backing I firmly believe that he is going to become a big star on the channel. The fight against Fonseca, who is a world class operator, is just the type of fight Alex needs and it will bring the best out in him. When people see it put on him that is when he will really shine and his heart and talent will be clear to all. I’m really excited with this main event fight and we’ll announce a quality undercard over the next few days.”

Tickets are priced at £40 and £75 (VIP) and are available from MyFightTickets at https://myfighttickets.com/shop-1?olsPage=products%2Fhennessy-mote-park

Philadelphia, PA- Junior welterweights Victor Padilla, of Berlin, NJ, and Romain Tomas, of Brooklyn, NY, will square off in the main event Friday evening, Oct. 4, at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

The eight-bout card, labeled Blood, Sweat & 50 Years, will celebrate the Golden Anniversary of Peltz Boxing Promotions. The card is being promoted by Raging Babe (Michelle Rosado) with J Russell Peltz serving as the matchmaker. First bout 7:30 p.m.

Going old-school on this one, Peltz has scheduled the Padilla-Tomas fight for six rounds, harking back to the first two decades of the 20th century when all main events in Pennsylvania were limited to that distance.

The 20-year-old Padilla, originally from Vieques, Puerto Rico, is a southpaw with speed and power. He has won all five of his fights by first-round knockout. In fact, he has only been in the ring for a total of six minutes, 29 seconds, in those five contests. Although none of his five opponents had a winning record when he fought them-their combined mark was 17-29-1 at the time-Padilla still is considered one of the best young pros on the East Coast. He is promoted by Lou DiBella’s DiBella Entertainment.

The 30-year-old Tomas is originally from Emerainville in the Seine-et-Marne region of France, outside Paris. He brings an 8-2 record into the fight with Padilla. Tomas is coming off his biggest career win, a six-round decision over previously unbeaten (7-0) Omar Bordoy in Bordoy’s nearby backyard of Hampton, NH.

“Some of the greatest fighters of all-time appeared in hundreds of six-round main events during those 20 years at the turn of the last century,” said promoter J Russell Peltz. “In my 50 years in boxing, this marks the first time I have been involved with a six-round main event. When you’ve never done something before, often that is the best reason for doing it.

“Hall-of-Fame champions like Jack Johnson and Benny Leonard boxed six-round main events in Philadelphia during those years,” said Peltz. “How about Stanley Ketchell vs. Sam Langford or Joe Gans taking on Jack Blackburn? I would have loved to have seen those battles. Lew Tendler, Abe Attell, Terrible Terry McGovern, Rocky Kansas, Philadelphia Jack O’Brien. Philadelphia was the boxing capital of the country and six-round main events was the norm.

“I’m an old-school kind of guy so this is going to be fun for me. This represents the past and Padilla vs. Tomas will give us a peek into the future.”

The undercard is topped by three additional six-round rematches.

Junior middleweights Roque Zapata, of Culpeper, VA, and Isaiah Wise, of North Philadelphia, meet in a rematch of their 2016 at the 2300 Arena, won by Zapata via majority four-round decision, the first loss of Wise’ career.

Zapata (6-2-4) also defeated Fred Jenkins, Jr., early in 2017 over six rounds in the same ring. Wise (7-2-1, 4 K0s) last boxed 10 months ago when he knocked out Andy Gonzales, of Worcester, MA, at the 2300 Arena.

Junior welterweights Gerardo Martinez, of Coatesville, PA, and Osnel Charles, of Atlantic City, collide in the other six-round rematch.

Martinez (4-1, 1 K0) earned a four-round majority decision over Charles (13-19-1, 2 K0s) at the 2300 Arena. While Martinez has been idle since, Charles picked up a four-round points victory in June over Laquan Lewis, of Brooklyn, NY, at the Parx Casino in Bensalem, PA.

North Philadelphia welterweight Marcel Rivers (7-1, 4 K0s) will fight in a six round contest.

Four-rounders scheduled for Oct. 4 include: Shinard Bunch, of Trenton, NJ, vs. Rakym Dyer, of South Philadelphia, welterweights; Christopher Burgos, North Philadelphia, vs. Tyree Arnold, North Philadelphia, junior welterweights; Vinnie Denierio, Elmira, NY, vs. Seifullah Wise, North Philadelphia, lightweights.

Lightweight Shamar Fulton, of North Philadelphia, also will appear in a four-round contest.

Tickets to “Peltz Boxing 50th Anniversary Celebration” are priced $50, $70 and $90. They can be purchased online at www.2300arena.com or by calling 215-758-2173 and/or 215-765-0922. Doors open at 6:30 pm and first bout is at 7:30 pm. Credential applications are due by Sept 20 and can be requested at ragingbabe.com/credentials. Blood, Sweat & 50 Years is brought to you by Rocco’s Collision and Cricket Wireless.

New York, September 5, 2019 –Star Boxing is excited to return to The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island, for the 36 edition of the critically acclaimed “Rockin’ Fights” series on September 20. A thrilling card is shaping up for yet another great night of exciting fights.

After eight stellar bouts at The Paramount, undefeated super welterweight, “The Jackpot” TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES (Elmont, Long Island 10-0 7KO’s) takes the next step in his career, headlining his first “Rockin’ Fights” on September 20. In his last bout, James took on Ray Oliveira Jr., dominating in emphatic fashion earning his tenth-consecutive victory, by second-round TKO. This will be James’ ninth bout at The Paramount, which has become a home for his “Jackpot” fanbase to come out and support the Elmont product. Opposing James in the main event, will be former USA Oklahoma State champion, DENNIS “PAWNEE EXPRESS” KNIFECHEIF. Fighting in New York for the first time, Knifechief (12-10-1 7KO’s) will look to upset the rising star, that is Tyrone James. This will be a scheduled 8-round super welterweight bout.

Another undefeated rising star is also on the card and will be making his United States debut in the co-feature. Highly touted Dominican Republic bantamweight prospect, JUNIOR “BOMBITA” ALMONTE (Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic 12-0 9KO’s) will throw his first punch in the US at “Rockin’ Fights.” At just 118 pounds, Almonte packs a punch, with a 75% knockout rate. Almonte has fought all twelve of his professional bouts in his home country of the Dominican Republic, earning the Dominican Republic Bantamweight and WBC FECARBOX Bantamweight titles over this span. On September 20, Almonte will put his title on the line against ERNESTO GARZA III (Saginaw, MI 10-3-1 6KO’s) who is a Multi-National Champion, National PAL, and National Golden Glove Champion. This will be a scheduled 8-round WBC FECARBOX Bantamweight title bout.

Italian cruiserweight, GIOVANNI SCUDERI (Ridgewood, NY by way of Sicily, Italy 1-0) will be taking on CESAR BENNETT (Kansas, KC 0-1) in a scheduled 4-round cruiserweight bout. Scuderi, born in Sicily, began boxing at the age of 4. After coming to the states to pursue his boxing career, Scuderi won the Washington D.C., North Carolina and Virginia Golden Gloves. After winning his pro-debut against Charles Johnson at the Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, Scuderi will make his second professional bout at The Paramount.

In the opening bouts of the evening, Bellport, Long Island’s, ALEX VARGAS (3-0 1KO) makes his third appearance at The Paramount and will take on the talented JOHNATHAN PIERRE (Vero Beach, FL 3-1) who last appeared Star Boxing’s International Boxing Hall of Fame Weekend at Turning Stone Resort Casino in a great action bout against Roberto Duran Jr. (then 2-0 2KO’s). This will be a scheduled 4-round welterweight bout. Be on the lookout for other exciting undercard bouts.

LOS ANGELES (September 5, 2019) – With just weeks to go until their blockbuster welterweight title unification, IBF Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBC Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter had a heated series of exchanges on “PBC Face to Face” as they went back and forth previewing their showdown that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

Spence Jr. and Porter both predicted knockout wins in their quests become a unified champion, a win that would bring the victor one step closer to their goal of becoming the undisputed top welterweight in the world.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

A two-time welterweight champion, Porter captured the WBC belt last September with a win over Danny Garcia and defended it on FOX with a victory over Yordenis Ugas in March. Porter plans to use his status as the veteran of numerous title fights on the biggest stages to eventually overwhelm his opponent on September 28.

“I’m expecting to break Errol Spence in a lot of different ways,” said Porter. “I’m expecting this to be the fight that comes as a wakeup call for his career.

“Any top notch fighter or any fighter that’s talked about for a long time and who you’ve seen win over crowds in the ring, that’s who I am. As a fighter, I’m prepared to do whatever it takes to leave a grand mark in my era. I will not be denied and that’s what makes me so good as a fighter.”

A highly-touted U.S. Olympian coming out of the 2012 games, Spence has lived up to the promise and became a welterweight champion in 2017 by stopping then unbeaten Kell Brook in the U.K. Since then he has made three successful defenses, including his most recent triumph over four-division champion Mikey Garcia in a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View in March, and he will look to leave it all in the ring on his path to becoming a unified champion.

“I already have it in my head that I want to punish Shawn and get an impressive knockout,” said Spence. “Nothing he can say can stop me. That’s my mentality come September 28.

“I have a lot of dog in me, I’m a guy who always comes to fight. I’m going to do what it takes to win.”

Catch the “PBC Face to Face” replay on FS1 this Sunday, September 8 at 9 p.m. ET and on FS2 tomorrow, Friday, September 6 at 11 p.m. ET and again on Saturday, September 7 at 12:30 p.m. ET and 9:30 p.m. ET. Here are some of the top exchanges from the show between the two welterweight champions:

On going from “from friends to foes” after a relationship dating back to their amateur days:

Shawn Porter: “I wouldn’t say I’ve shifted, but when he said he wants to fight me, I’m like ‘let’s go’. This is what we do. This is what we signed up for. But you know just like I know, it’s time to take care of business.”

Errol Spence Jr.: “This is something that I’ve wanted for a long time. To be a unified champion. To have that WBC Belt. I’m more loyal to my dream and to my job than I am to a friendship. This is how I put food on my family’s table.”

On their Las Vegas press conference on July 20 where Spence declared he would knock Porter out:

Porter: “I heard you, and I heard you clearly. Was there hesitation? Possibly. Do you really believe it? I don’t know. The fact remains that I am who I’ve always been. Nobody’s ever knocked me out. You can say what you want to say, but doing something is completely different.”

Spence:”My mom always said there’s a first time for everything. You’ve never been knocked out before? That’s cool. Everybody knows that I can knock him out. That’s something that I’m willing to do, that’s what I’m training for and that’s something that very likely could happen come September 28.”

On the Porter family’s familiarity with Spence (Shawn’s father and Trainer Ken trained Spence during a portion of his amateur career)

Porter: “From 2012 to now a lot of things can change and I’m sure a lot of things have changed. I do feel that in some ways, we have a good insight, but not a complete insight on who Errol Spence Jr. is and what he’s capable of.”

Spence: “You can go back and look at amateur tapes and see why I lost, but at the end of the day, you’re going to be in a real fight. I’m looking to punish him from the first round until I stop him. I’m looking to make history. I’m looking to be the best. That’s why I took on this challenge and that’s’ why I wanted to fight Shawn Porter.”

On if Spence has enough respect for Porter heading into this fight

Porter: “No, but he has the respect that he needs. The respect he needs is to understand that ‘if I’m going to beat Shawn Porter, I have to punish him.’ Those are the same words that are being said in my camp. We’re talking about punishing you. We’re talking about taking you to the deep waters and drowning you. We’re talking about hitting you and hurting you. We’re talking about hitting you with things you’ve never felt before. It’s nothing new, but the talking is done pretty soon, and we’ll have to get it on.”

Spence: “I know what he comes with. He’s aggressive and will try to take me to deep waters. That all sounds good, but everybody knows that I come in great shape. I throw a lot of punches. I can do it all. They can try to drown me, but you might be the one getting drowned.”

Porter: “I’ve been in the ring against guys who hit hard and I had to keep going until I come out on top, on the bottom or however it goes. The fact remains the same, I’m never going to stop. You can say you’re going to do this, you’re going to do that, but do you really have what it takes to stop me?”

On Spence’s fight against Mikey Garcia

Spence: “They said if it was a tactical fight, Mikey Garcia was going to beat me. They said it all throughout the whole presser and through the lead up to the fight. And I made sure that I was going to show my skillset, my talent and my abilities, not only physically, but mentally, just my whole skill set. And I’ve been saying that.

Porter: “You came on my show ‘INSIDE PBC BOXING’ sat next to me, and I said, ‘Were you mad that you didn’t knock him out?’ You said: ‘Yeah, I was a little mad.’ I said: ‘Oh, I’m surprised. I would have thought the opposite. I didn’t think you will be mad.’ You said: ‘Well yeah, I wanted to knock him out.’ Now you’re saying you didn’t want to hurt him?”

Spence Jr.: “Did I say the whole time I was going to knock him out? Through the whole lead up to the fight, did I say I going to knock him out? Now I’m saying I’m going to knock you out.”

Porter: “That’s what you’re supposed say. That’s how you’re supposed to feel.”

Spence Jr.: “You going to be swinging wild and you’ll just miss. I am going to punish you. Watch.”

Porter: “The blessed part about it is, I’m not banking on that to beat you. I’m not banking on my will. I’m not banking on my heart.”

Spence Jr.: “But the best thing about that is I’m better than you talent wise, skill wise, and I know I’ve got more talent than you. You’re going to find out on September 28.”

Porter: “Guess we’re going to find out.”

On the role of experience in this fight

Porter: “I don’t think you’ve been in the ring with anyone that has made you adapt, has made you make adjustments, has made you get out of your comfort zone, and on September 28, that’s exactly what I plan to do.”

Spence Jr.: “He doesn’t have the skills to beat me. I’m not worried about Shawn boxing like he did with Ugas, or what he did with Danny Garcia. He’s going to have no choice but to come forward.”

Porter: “What do you trust that’s telling you that’s the only way I can beat you?”

Spence Jr.: “Like I said, you’re going to have no choice but to come forward. Period. You’ll find out September 28.”

Porter: “I want to know where the confidence comes from.”

Spence Jr.: “The confidence comes within me, I’m going to punish you, man. I promise you that.”

On fighting for the top spot in the welterweight division

Porter: “1, 2, 3. Make them however you want to make them. Shawn Porter, Errol Spence, Manny Pacquiao. After this right here, there’s only two.”

Spence Jr.: “I want to be a legend a sport. And he’s in my way. So, I’m not thinking about Manny Pacquiao right now. Shawn Porter is first.”

Porter: “You can still have your legacy and everything, I’m just going to slow you down a little bit.”

Spence Jr.: “We’ll see. I’m going to put you on my resume.”

On getting the win by stoppage on September 28

Porter: “I most definitely can stop him. It’s all about timing. Everything you send to me, I’m going to shoot it right back at you. The difference is I’m willing, I’m capable of doing it when we get in the ring. I don’t think you are.”

Spence Jr.: “It doesn’t matter what you say. You can lie to yourself all you want.”

Porter: “I’ll come out and knock you out in the first round. It’s still going to be exciting. People are still going to be on their feet. It’s going to be one of the most exciting knockouts of the year. I’m making it plain and simple, baby. No matter how this fight goes, I’m leaving the ring with the belt. And because you are who you are, it’s going to be exciting watching me.”

Spence Jr.: “You’re not. You’re going to be congratulating me as a unified champ. That’s what you’re going to do.”
Porter: “However he lets it end, it’s going to be with me winning.”

Spence Jr.: “This fight ends in a spectacular knockout by me. I’m going to punish him. I’m going to beat him up mentally and physically. I’m going to have him distraught in the ring. Then, I’m finishing him.”

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ABOUT SPENCE VS. PORTER
Spence vs. Porter pits unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. against WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter in a 147-pound title unification that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

The pay-per-view event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell facing unbeaten former champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez in the co-main event, unbeaten contenders Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov battling for the WBA Super Lightweight title, and rugged veteran Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and brawler John Molina Jr. competing in a 10-round welterweight fight.

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

Undefeated German light heavyweight Leon Bunn (14-0, 8 KOs) will defend his IBF International title on November 2 at the CGM Arena in Koblenz.

Team Sauerland and Bunn return to the CGM Arena for the second time this year following a successful show on February 16 that saw the 27-year-old Frankfurt-native claim a unanimous points win over Viktor Polyakov (13-6-1, 6 KOs).

Bunn is back in action following a career best ninth-round TKO victory over Leon Harth (18-4, 12 KOs) on May 4 in his hometown at the Fraport Arena, where he claimed his first professional honour by winning the IBF International belt.

“I am pleased to be able to box again in Koblenz,” said Bunn. “I hope my fans get behind me and support me. I’m going full throttle in my preparation to ensure I give everyone a great performance and an exciting evening of boxing.”

Also on the bill is 17-year-old sensation Sophie Alisch (4-0, 1 KO), who began life in the pro ranks at the CGM Arena on February 16 scoring an explosive first-round knockout win over Sopo Kintsurashvili. The Berlin-boxer will be looking for victory number five as she continues her promising career in Koblenz.

The show, named ‘Fighting For Future’, is a special evening that will see Team Sauerland partner with AWR Abbruch GmbH and Holefeld Promotion and the ticket revenue and money raised from the evening will be 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. 

“We have great memories of our last fight night in Koblenz and we look forward to returning in November,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “We are delighted to support these three important causes and thank AWR Abbruch GmbH and Holefeld for their ideas and commitment on the ground. Leon and Sophie will do their part to make ensure the evening is a sporting success as well!”

Tickets for the Team Sauerland event in Koblenz are on sale now and available via www.eventim.de, www.adticket.de and at all known ticket agencies. Sport 1 will broadcast the action from the CGM Arena live in Germany. 

HEAVYWEIGHT boxing’s shining light Daniel Dubois feels he’s in a real-life Colosseum when he goes into battle at the Royal Albert Hall.

Dubois (12-0, 11KOs) challenges Ghana’s Ebenezer Tetteh (19-0, 16KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight title on Friday October 27 at the famous venue that has stood since 1871.

Promoter Frank Warren believes the historic hall will become the sensational London prospect’s fighting home, following in the footsteps of heavyweight greats who have boxed there.

Dubois, 21, headlined at the London venue in March, and was inspired. Then he slaughtered Razvan Cojanu inside two rounds at the 135 foot domed venue, claiming the WBO European crown.

He has promised the same treatment for Tetteh adding: “You look up and it’s like a gladiators colosseum and you feel the energy.

“It’s real and it gives you a good feeling that you’re about to go out and handle business.

“It is a very good arena. When it’s packed out you feel the buzz of the crowd and it gives you energy.”

Dubois who beat Nathan Gorman to become British champion in his last fight is astonished to be following his idols who have fought at the atmospheric arena in Kensington, when he performs there for the second time in little more than six months.

Muhammad Ali boxed exhibition matches at the iconic venue in 1971 and 1979 in Farewell to London, the Magic of Ali.

British heavyweight greats Lennox Lewis, Frank Bruno, Henry Cooper, Joe Bugner, Don Cockell and Tommy Farr all boxed there.

And in 1968 Theotis Martin’s classic win against fellow American Thad Spencer is widely considered as one of the most exciting non-title heavyweight contests ever. Primo Carnera also boxed there six times.

Daniel Dubois headlines the bill when he meets Ghana’s Ebenezer Tetteh for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight crown and there will be a world title clash involving WBO flyweight champion Nicola Adams, live on BT Sport.

The card will also feature WBO European super-featherweight champion Archie Sharp who makes his second title defence against Dublin’s Declan Geraghty.

Middleweight banger Denzel Bentley, heavyweight Jonathan Palata, lightweight Mohammad Bilal Ali and precocious bantamweight talent Dennis McCann are also in action.

Exciting prospects Lewis Edmondson, Eithan James and Sam Noakes all make their professional debuts.

Tickets for the September 27 bill at the Royal Albert Hall are available to purchase from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and www.royalalberthall.com. Prices £40, £50, £75, £100, £150 Ringside.

NEW YORK – September 5, 2019 – Undefeated American heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin will face Pavel Šour on Saturday, October 5 live on SHOWTIME from Dort Federal Events Center in Flint, Mich.

Franklin (19-0, 13 KOs) will make his third consecutive SHOWTIME appearance of 2019 as he seeks a definitive victory less than an hour from his hometown of Saginaw, Mich.  The 25-year-old will take on once-beaten Czech Republic heavyweight Šour (11-1, 6 KOs) on the undercard of a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast headlined by Claressa Shields vs. Ivana Habazin.

Headlining the non-televised undercard will be an “All Detroit” showdown between crosstown rivals, as West Detroit’s Ja’Rico “Great Lakes King” O’Quinn and East Detroit’s James “O.G.” Smith battle in a 10-round fight for Motown super flyweight supremacy.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Center box office. 

Considered one of the top American heavyweight prospects, Franklin is a former amateur standout and 2014 National Golden Gloves Champion.  He passed on the opportunity to compete for a spot on the 2016 Olympic Games and, after turning professional in 2015, built his undefeated record with relative ease through his first 17 fights.  In 2019, Franklin stepped up his level of opposition in consecutive fights on SHOWTIME, earning a unanimous decision over former No. 1-ranked U.S. amateur Rydell Booker in April, followed by a hard-fought split-decision over Jerry Forrest in July.  Now, the 6-foot-2 Franklin returns for his third bout of the year seeking a conclusive victory for his hometown fans. 

“This is what I have been waiting for,” said Franklin.  “I can’t wait to put a show on in front of my hometown with friends and family in the crowd.  I’ve been working on my diet and taking better care of my body since my last fight.  I’m focused on not wasting any punches and letting the knockout come naturally, not pushing for it.  I’m going to be better conditioned and more patient and finally prove to fans why I’m America’s next great heavyweight.”

Šour turned professional in 2016 and has won 11 of his first 12 professional bouts.  The 36-year-old is coming off a career-best win over previously undefeated Tomas Salek for the regional Czech heavyweight title.  The 6-foot-5 Šour has fought all but one of his professional bouts in his native Czech Republic and will make his U.S. debut against Franklin. He was an accomplished amateur overseas and racked up an 80-43-2 record while representing the Czech national team from 2008 to 2015. The lone blemish on Šour’s record is a 2017 loss to highly regarded unbeaten heavyweight Filip Hrgovic. 

“I have the technique, speed and power to beat Jermaine Franklin,” said Šour.  “I am in great shape, I’m training hard and I’m very confident heading into this fight.  Franklin is underestimating me because of my age, but I’m going to show him he’s wrong and have my hand raised when the final bell rings.”

“Jermaine Franklin is on a mission to show the world that he is the top new heavyweight on the scene,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “He will fight the big and strong Pavel Šour who is coming off a career-best win. This is a significant heavyweight fight that will add to the already historic and electric event on October 5 headlined by Claressa Shields vs. Ivana Habazin.”

The 24-year-old O’Quinn (12-0-1, 8 KOs) stands 5-foot-6 and is rated No. 13 in the world by the WBO. Blazing-fast hands and effortless combination punching have allowed the undefeated O’Quinn to become a favorite among Motor City fight fans. O’Quinn was the No. 1-ranked amateur bantamweight in the country before turning professional in 2015. He was last seen on April 13 of this year at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, winning a dominant unanimous eight-round decision over Minnesota veteran Vicente Alfaro Martinez.
 

“On October 5 you can expect nothing less than what I always do and that’s win!” said O’Quinn. “This is the biggest fight of my professional career and my first 10-round fight and I’m taking it very seriously. I will look the best I’ve looked as pro on that night and after the fight I’ll be looking for bigger names to take on in the super flyweight division.”

A 29-year-old standing 5-foot-3, Smith (13-2, 7 KOs) carries a reputation as a throwback and one of the most exciting Detroit fighters of the last decade. Known for his fearless aggression in the ring, Smith’s fights are always “must see” fare for Detroiters. Also an accomplished amateur, Smith is a former National Amateur Champion and eight-time Golden Gloves Champion. His last fight came in February of this year at the Performance Arts Center in Dearborn, Mich., where he won a unanimous six-round decision over Mexico’s Jonathan Lecona Ramos.

“My opponent is solid, but he’s not on my level,” said Smith. “He throws a lot of punches but he slaps a lot. There is nothing he can show me that I have not already seen before. The fans can always expect an exciting fight when it comes to me. I’m going to always put it all on the line to win.”

“Detroit is one of the best boxing fight cities in the country and this fight is an example of that,” said Salita. “Ja’Rico is touted as one of the best American super flyweights, while James Smith was a can’t-miss prospect when he turned professional. This fight could turn out to be the fight of the night because both guys will leave it all in the ring to win.  Will it be Ja’Rico’s speed and timing, or will James Smith grind him down with his aggression and pressure? No matter who wins, this will be an unforgettable war.”

Barry Tompkins will call the SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

NEW YORK – September 5, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight prospect Brandun Lee will make his television debut against Nicaraguan Milton Arauz in the eight-round opening bout of a three-fight ShoBox: The New Generation telecast on Friday, September 20 live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from La Hacienda Event Center in Midland, Texas.

In the previously announced main event, Midland native and fast-rising prospect Michael Dutchover will face ShoBox veteran Thomas Mattice in a 10-round lightweight bout while undefeated featherweight prospects Ruben Villa (16-0, 5 KOs) and Enrique Vivas (17-0, 9 KOs) clash in a 10-round matchup.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing in association with GH3 Promotions, Garcia Promotions and Now Boxing Promotions, are priced at $120, $100 and $80 and can be purchased online at www.haciendamidland,com or by calling 432-563-3737.

Super lightweight prospect Lee(15-0, 13 KOs), of La Quinta, Calif. turned pro at 17 after a decorated amateur career (196-5). He has sparred with Mikey Garcia, Devin Haney and Mauricio Herrera. Trained by his father Bobby, the 20-year-old has built up an 87-percent knockout ratio. A very active fighter, he had five bouts in 2018 and he will be facing his fourth opponent this year. He last fought on August 23 and is looking for a definitive win on his TV debut.

“I’m really excited about my first television fight on ShoBox and my first eight-round fight,” Lee said. “I’m in camp training really hard with my dad and trainer. This is an amazing opportunity for me. I will not disappoint on September 20.”

The 27-year-old, Arauz (10-1-1, 5 KOs), of Jinotega, Nicaragua, had a successful amateur run. He fought 80 amateur bouts and compiled a record of 74 wins against six defeats. He turned pro in 2014 and won his first nine bouts. His lone loss came in May of 2017, when he was disqualified for repeated low blows against Angel Galo. Nicknamed “El Norteño”, Arauz will be fighting outside of his native Nicaragua for the first time on September 20.

“I’m very excited to showcase my talent on such a big network,” Arauz said. “Knowing so many great fighters had the opportunity to fight on ShoBox, I’m ready to put on a show. Also being able to come to the United States for the first time. I’m ready to give it my all and put on a great performance.”

Arauz said he’s aware of the undefeated Lee’s background and that he was also an outstanding amateur. “That’s not going to stop me, and I’m ready to give it my all and take it to him,” Arauz said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me and I’m going to take advantage of it. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get the win.”

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 80 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki AlFaisal Al Saud, Chairman of the GSA:

“I want to start with welcoming everyone to Saudi Arabia, especially to Diriyah. I Would like to welcome the fighters here and I wish them luck. Firstly, boxing is one of our growing sports in the Kingdom, we have had events in the past and international events which started with Formula E, WWE, the Italian Super-Cup final and other events in the Kingdom. They all fall under the 2030 vision guided by the custodian of the two holy mosques, his majesty King Salman and the Crown Prince Hamed Salman. The direction of Saudi Arabia is to enhance sport because sport is good for everyone. We are not just focusing on one sport we are focusing on many sports and maybe that Is reflected on the number of events that we have hosted.

“We are very lucky that we have managed to host this fight in Saudi and in Diriyah, which is a very special place for all of us. We also want to reflect to the world what Saudi Arabia is and hopefully everyone can come and enjoy this fight in one of our special places in the Kingdom. I think everyone is already excited outside and inside the Kingdom. We are really looking forward to welcoming everyone, anyone who wants to come to Saudi and watch this fight is more than welcome to come. Sports reaches everyone, and I think it is fundamental in the ‘2030 Vision’ and one of the key visions in the 2030 vision is to promote and grow sports within the Kingdom. We are not just hosting fights, we are increasing the interest in the Kingdom. We have seen the interest in sports have grown drastically in the last few years and we want to give this opportunity to Saudi citizens who can come and watch this fight.

“This is the start of something exciting and everybody has been excited in the Kingdom since this fight was first announced. Everybody is looking forward to getting tickets and I think it will boost the interest in boxing in general. Lots of gyms and venues are opening up. Boxing is an old sport but is relatively new for Saudi Arabia. That is something that we would like to enhance from these events, to open up the interest in boxing in the Kingdom but also to have a long lasting plan to really encourage the youth in getting into boxing.

“I think that everyone who is coming to watch this fight is going to experience something that they haven’t experienced anywhere else in the world, that is our aim. In October we will announce all the details and how people can purchase tickets. We will have an easy system that anyone can apply to and anyone can apply for a VISA and come to Saudi and watch this fight. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone.”

Eddie Hearn, Managing Director, Matchroom Boxing:

“Thanks Ravi and thank you to the whole panel and of course everybody who made this event possible. The GSA, Prince Abdulaziz thank you, Skills Challenge Entertainment, Omar and the team and an huge thank you to Prince Khalid who plagued me and didn’t let this go to bring this fight here, we were so close and looking at almost a dozen other venues that were knocking at our door for this World Heavyweight Championship, the biggest fight in boxing today. Prince Khalid saw the vision, the love and passion for the sport and would not stop calling me. He would not stop trying to bring this event to Saudi Arabia. 

“I have to tell you, sitting here now and having just watched that incredible show and having been a fight fan for 30 years, I felt a bit emotional. This is such a monumental occasion for our sport which is sometimes very narrow minded – there’s Las Vegas, there’s New York, there’s London – no. There is a whole world out there and now there is Saudi Arabia for boxing. This is such a monumental opportunity for our sport and you’re not just bringing a fight to the Kingdom, you are bringing the biggest fight in world boxing, the biggest prize in boxing – the World Heavyweight Championship. 

“This is not a one off fight, this is a rematch for one of the fights of the year. Back on June 1 at the sold out Madison Square Garden we witnessed one of the greatest Heavyweight upsets of all time. Andy Ruiz may not feel it was an upset but it did go down in history that way, it was an incredible fight with both men on the canvas as Andy Ruiz beat Anthony Joshua to become the Unified World Heavyweight Champion.

“On December 7 in Diriyah we do it all again, for your entertainment in a purpose built, open air arena with 16,000 people. We love what you are doing here for sport and we love Formula E, we love the European Tour and I think that WWE is great, but there is nothing like the sport of boxing. You will witness an event that will go down in history – some people will be looking from the outside in and say this is a strange destination but they also said that with ‘The Rumble in The Jungle’ and ‘The Thriller in Manilla’, and this as an event will go down in history just like those iconic moments in our sport.

“I want to thank everybody for bringing this fight here and I want to thank the fighters – for those who know or those who are new to the sport of boxing know that these guys who are the gladiators. They are the guys who get in the ring and fight for these belts, for their legacy and for your entertainment. These are the guys that deserve so much respect. This is not just about bringing a major fight to Saudi Arabia, this is about the potential to grow the sport of boxing here. One of the reasons that we’re even here is because of Prince Khalid’s vision to grow the sport here. We’re already in the talks about academy’s and about grass-roots boxing, this is how you grow the sport of boxing. Trust me, the people of Saudi Arabia once they see this event and touch and taste the sport of boxing, they will be addicted. This will be a monumental occasion for this sport. The world will stand still to witness history in Saudi Arabia. Ticket details will be released in due course.”

Andy Ruiz Sr:

“First of all I want to thank all the people from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, I felt so proud of my son when he won the fight – it was a dream that we had when he was six years old. I believe that dreams come true, I have been working for this and thinking who was going to be champion of the world. I had a dream I was going to have my Mexican Rocky and then it came true so I feel so happy and thankful to Eddie Hearn for this opportunity.”

Robert McCracken MBE, trainer of Anthony Joshua:

“This is Heavyweight boxing, we’ve seen it time and time again. Andy is a very good fighter and is the World Heavyweight Champion and Anthony is now challenging – it’s turned completely on its head. AJ is driven and determined to get those titles back so it’s going to be exciting and interesting to see. It is going to be challenging for both fighters but I think it will be a challenge they will look forward to, certainly Anthony is looking forward to it, he’s excited already. It’s December so it will be a little bit cooler which should suit both fighters and it will certainly suit Anthony and he will be prepared. He will be in tip-top shape and he knows that Ruiz is a tremendous champion, but he is a tremendous challenger and he’s aiming to win those belts back on December 7.”

Manny Robles, trainer of Andy Ruiz Jr:

“First of all thank you to everyone, the media and the country of Saudi Arabia for having us here in the city of Diriyah. This is an incredible country with very nice people and thank you for the warm welcome. It’s time to turn the page, dreams do come true but now it is a reality and it’s time to go to work. I can promise everybody and the fans here and across the world that Andy will be ready – he will be ready for the challenge. We respect Anthony Joshua and his team, he is a great fighter and we know that he is going to bring it, so that is the reason why we need to be at our best come December 7. It’s part two, it’s a continuation of part one. Both fighters know each other and know what to expect from one another so there will be changes. We will have more time to prepare this time around and we have begun our preparation – there will be some changes and you can expect a better, faster, leaner and stronger Andy Ruiz than we saw the first time around.”

Anthony Joshua OBE:

“Thank you all for your hospitality, to the people and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I never thought that I would be fighting outside of London or America so it is a blessing and I am humbled to be here. With the fight, I feel that I was up against a good challenger at the time and I was only champion until June 1, as Andy is champion now, that will last until December 7 when he has to put his titles in the air and two warriors will go to war and the best man will walk out victorious. I am really looking forward to the challenge and I am glad the people here are supporting boxing. Some may support me, others may support Andy, but at the end of the day we are going to have a really good night of boxing and that is what we are all here for.

“My parents and their heritage is from Nigeria and I was born in England. I started boxing when I moved to London and my cousin was training. I was only doing it as a mindset thing. I needed to change my mindset when I was younger, I was getting in some sorts of trouble and I wasn’t really focused on my education as such. Being around the older generation and the wise generation they gave me advice and a lot of game that I could use on my day to day life and I started thinking as an individual. In three years from being a novice in the gym I was competing at the Olympics and by that point I had been to so many countries around the world representing Great Britain.

“I turned professional and based myself in England where I won the gold medal and I have been competing out of Great Britain ever since until I went to America when I lost my titles. I should say ‘the’ titles because I believe that being a champion is more than just having belts which I have always said, being a champion has responsibilities and it’s about having a championship mindset. The belts will go in the air and we will fight for them again and this time around it’s not London, it’s not America, it is Saudi Arabia.”

Andy Ruiz Jr:

“I’m really happy to be here and I thank everybody. On June 1 I made my dreams come true with a lot of sacrifice, blood and tears. I just believed in myself and I think I am here for a purpose and I just want to tell everybody that if they have a dream they’ve got to follow through with it and everything is possible.

On December 7 I know that Anthony Joshua is going to come hard, he’s going to come strong and will be preparing really well but so am I. I’m really hungery, a lot of people have been saying that I’m not training or taking it seriously but come on I have all these belts and there is responsibilities to this. I am going to try my best and I’m going to keep these belts and take them back to Mexico. On December 7 I am going to make history again and win here in the same fashion and the same way that I won on June 1 and I am going to prove everybody wrong.

“The hunger still remains, I don’t want 15 minutes of fame I want this to last for a generation. I want to be a champion for many years and I have a good fighter next to me who is going to try and take these belts but god is with me and we’re going to be training really hard for December 7. 

“I expect a tougher test this time round, he is more hungry and wants his belts back but that is what is motivating me and making me more hungry. I want to train harder because I know he is, I only had a month, month and a half, to train for the first fight but this time we have a whole camp so it benefits me. It is going to be an exciting fight, a hell of a fight – two big Heavyweights punching each other in the face – tune in December 7, it’s going to be a hell of a fight.”

Washington, D.C.(Sept. 4, 2019) — On Saturday, Sept. 14, Sam “The Vanilla Gorilla” Crossed (8-0, 5KOs) will return to the ring for the first time this year in a six-round bout when he takes on 33-fight veteran Edgar Perez.  The match will take place at the Dulles Sportsplex on Sterling, Va., just outside the Nation’s Capital.  the card, titled “Countdown to the Commonwealth”, is promoted by Cory Sanders of CyNation Sports in association with Greg Cohen Promotions.

“Perez has been in there with a lot of good guys and always comes to fight,” Crossed said.  “If I can get him out early, that would be great, but if I get some rounds in, that wouldn’t be bad either.”

Perez has faced top-notch competition throughout his career.  Perez will be the 15th undefeated fighter the Puerto Rican warhorse has faced in the squared circle, seven of whom he took the distance including a win over former light heavyweight prospect Lavarn Harvel, who was 13-0, 7KOs, when Perez handed him his first defeat, putting him on the canvas twice in rounds one and three.

Crossed was scheduled to face cruiserweight gatekeeper Larry Pryor on May 19, but due to circumstances beyond his control, the bout was scrapped just before the card was set to begin in Washington, D.C.  Although he was devastated that he was unable to ply his trade, Crossed said he didn’t let it slow him down.

“I felt terrible for my fans when my fight was canceled at the last minute.  I felt like I let everyone down,” Crossed said.  “I have stayed in the gym just waiting for an opportunity to get back in the ring, and I want to make it up to everyone with a great performance.

“I am working with Billy Robin, and I feel the best I have in my career.”

The D.C. area fan favorite will be fighting at a catchweight of 185 pounds for this bout as he moves down to the light heavyweight division.  This will be the lowest contracted weight at which the power punching Greenbelt, Md., native has ever competed.

“I have been fighting at my walk around weight my entire career,” Cross said.  “My next fight I plan to come in around 180 and then keep working my way down to 175 pounds.”

The promotional free agent, Crossed, has stated that would like to fight at least twice more before the years end.

“I want to thank Cory Sanders and CyNation Sports for giving me the opportunity to fight on this card,” Crossed said.  “This is my first time fighting in Virginia and on the CyNation card, hopefully we can keep this going.”

“I want to be as active as possible, I haven’t fought since December and I am dying to get back in there.”

Tickets tickets priced at $55 and $75 can be purchased at www.SamCrossed301.complus any applicable fees. 

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Follow Sam Crossed on Twitter at @SamCrossed301 on Instagram at @VanillaGorilla301 and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VanillaGorilla301

For interview requests please email vanillagorilla301@gmail.com 

Baton Rouge — September 4, 2019 — A long-time member of the World Fighting Championships family lost his life over Labor Day weekend. Justin Thomas, who fought 16 of his 21 fights at the Belle of Baton Rouge Casino with WFC, was shot leaving a bar in his hometown.

The youngest of five children, Thomas graduated from Glen Oaks High, where he played basketball, and went on to attend Southern University.

Thomas began boxing in 2004, but was in and out of trouble, and unfocused at the beginning of his career. In 2009, when he was 26 years old, he met Floyd Mayweather, Jr., who inspired him to take his dream of winning a world title seriously.

In 2010, he relocated to Houston to perfect his craft. There he amassed 55 fights, and competed in the Houston Golden Gloves.

In February 2011, Thomas’ mom was in an accident, and he returned to Baton Rouge to care for her. She had rods and screws in her leg, and the recovery process took years. During that time, Thomas continued boxing, while working at a local plant.

He was proud of having turned things around during those years. “I use the stuff that used to get me trouble to better myself,” said Thomas in 2015. “I work with troubled kids. I try to be a good influence on people. Just because you start off on the wrong foot doesn’t mean you can’t turn things around. You’re never too old to go for your dreams.”

“He was a sweet guy,” WFC founder and promoter Matt McGovern said of Thomas. “He was always welcoming, and had a big following because he was so able to connect with people.

“He really wanted to be a world champion. He worked hard, and wanted to get somewhere in the boxing business.”

At 35, Thomas was an active boxer until his death. He last fought in Elkins, West Virginia in June. Never one to turn down a tough bout, he faced Georgia prospect Eric Moon, taking him the distance before losing a decision.

“All of us at WFC will miss Justin, and our thoughts and hearts are with his family, his coaches, and his teammates,” said McGovern. “There are a lot of people in Baton Rouge, Houston and throughout the fight game that will be missing him.”

TIJUANA, MEXICO (Sept. 4, 2019): Jaime Munguia (33-0, 26 KOs) hosted a media workout yesterday in his hometown of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico ahead of defending his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title in a 12-round bout against African warrior Patrick Allotey (40-3, 30 KOs). The young star was joined by his trainer Erik Morales, along with Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy, and Fernando Beltran, CEO of Zanfer Promotions. The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Below is what yesterday’s participants had to say at the media workout:

Jaime Munguia, WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion:
“For this camp, we’ve been working on keeping my hands up, moving my waist and using lateral movement. That’s what we have been practicing every day with my new trainer Erik Morales. Erik and I had known each other from before, but I never thought that I’d be training with him. Things happen for a reason, and I think it’s for the best.”

“Erik and I have a good relationship, and we get along well. We’re happy when we’re working with each other as I have been with my father and other trainers as well. Erik brings a lot of intelligence to camp. He knows what to do in the ring. He knows how to work on defense, and he gives me a lot of advice regarding what to do in a fight. It comes with his experience, and of course I execute what he says when I am in the ring. It has been really good.”

Erik Morales, Hall of Famer and Trainer to Jaime Munguia
“In Jaime Munguia’s last fight, he was criticized a lot. He showed vulnerabilities in his defense. However, he has a lot of potential. He’s young, strong and can hit very hard. We haven’t changed much. Rather, we’ve strengthened his combinations and focused on his offense. We’ve made some minor changes in his defense, but it will nevertheless make the a difference.”

“We weren’t friends before working together, but we thought well of each other. When we’d see each other, we would greet each other happily. Now that we are together, we have a very cordial relationship. When you bring a new voice into a corner, it can be tough at first. But when you find a way to listen and you see that things are going your way, it can be a calming experience. If there’s any advice that I’d give to Jaime, it’s to listen to his corner, pay attention and let us help him.”

Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy:
“I like what I see in Jaime Munguia now that he has the legendary Erik Morales in his corner. He’s having him sit down more on his punches. Before, he was on his toes too much. Now he has him sitting on his punches and throwing combinations. At the same time, he is moving his head and being smart, so I like what I see.”

“I’m expecting Jaime to box a little bit, but I also expect him to be more aggressive and throw combinations. Fighters today don’t throw as many combinations. They want to knock people out with one punch. But it’s not the first punch that knocks you out-it’s the third or fourth punch. I like Jaime is being more aggressive and throwing more combinations. We’ll see what happens on Sept. 14.”

Fernando Beltran, CEO of Zanfer Promotions:
“Jaime Munguia is improving a lot with Erik Morales. There are a lot of similarities between them. Both guys came from Tijuana and were undefeated when they became world champions at only 21 years of age. They both started with their fathers as well. This team will do a lot in boxing. I see Jaime Munguia is improving his defense and on not throwing punches for the sake of throwing them. He’s thinking more in there. He’s improving a lot.”

“Erik Morales has a lot to prove as a trainer. As a former fighter, he has a lot of knowledge, which he can now pass down to other fighters who are coming up. They get along very well. We are very happy to have put them together and that they are getting along so well. We’re also happy with Jaime’s improvement. We just saw him moving his head in sparring and throwing a lot of punches. He’s not jumping as much. I really like it.”

Munguia vs. Allotey is a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and Orange Crush. The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 14 at Dignity Health Sports Park and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Allotey are on sale and are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased at goldenboytickets.com, https://www.axs.com/, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at Dignity Health Sports Park Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

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

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

The newest Samoan powerhouse on the heavyweight boxing scene, cement-fisted 6’ 5” slugger Patrick “The Magic Show” Mailata, will make his American fighting debut in just his second professional fight, this Thursday, September 5, 2019.

Mailata (1-0, 1 KO) will face Mexico’s Daniel Franco (2-1, 2 KOs) as part of the Final Fight Championship 40: Egli vs. Lemminger mixed combat-sport event being held at the Fight Dome located inside of Rio Las Vegas.

From a boxing family, Mailata was born in Apia, Samoa, but moved to New Zealand as a youngster. The 24-year-old turned to boxing in 2010 after an injury prematurely ended a promising rugby career.

After just two years of amateur boxing, Mailata lost a close decision to former WBO Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker in the New Zealand National Olympic Trials. Among many other distinctions, he went on to become a three-time New Zealand national elite champion from 2012 to 2014 and a Commonwealth Games bronze medalist.

Mailata signed a promotional agreement with Vegas-based Epic Sports and Entertainment in June 2019 and has been training there for the last three months.

“Where I come from, this is the heart of boxing,” said Mailata of his American debut. “Everyone around the world wants to make it here in Vegas. For me to be fighting here in my second fight is an amazing feeling. I look forward to having bigger and bigger fights here in Vegas.”

In many ways, Mailata is not your typical heavyweight. In addition to his powerful punches, Mailata can also move with surprising agility.

“My team and I are working on harnessing my skills here in Vegas. I’m very entertaining in the ring and I can do things that seem impossible for someone my size. That’s why they call me ‘Magic Show.’”

“We’re excited to have signed Patrick Mailata to our Epic stable,” said Ivaylo Gotzev of Epic Sports and Entertainment. “He’s the one to watch of the new crop of heavyweight prospects. He’s a combination of Samoan strength and power with unbelievable natural athletic ability. He possesses the special talent that will take him to the top.”

ORANGE, Calif. (Sept. 4, 2019) – Unified world champion Danny Roman will have to wait a little longer to defend his WBA title.

Roman, who also holds the IBF crown, was forced to pull out of his upcoming fight with mandatory contender Murodjon Akhmadaliev on September 13 due to a left shoulder injury.

Examinations by two Los Angeles-based shoulder specialists revealed tendinitis in Roman’s left shoulder. The primary doctor who evaluated Roman ordered him to suspend all boxing activity for a period of four to six weeks.

“My plan is to rest and take it easy,” said Roman, who would have made the fifth defense of his WBA title that he won in knockout fashion two years ago over Shun Kubo. “I want to fight Akhmadaliev before the year is over. We’ll have a better idea for a date as soon as I get medical clearance to resume training.”

“It’s unfortunate that some people are saying that he’s using the injury as an excuse to not fight,” said Alex Camponovo, matchmaker and general manager at Thompson Boxing. “He’s not running away from any challenge. That’s not who he is. For the other side to suggest anything otherwise is very immature and unprofessional.”

Thompson Boxing and co-promoter Matchroom Boxing are in the early stages of figuring out a new date for the championship fight.

The fight was scheduled for the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden in New York.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

(Sept. 4, 2019) —European heavyweight kingpin Agit Kabayel is coming to America.

Kabayel (19-0, 13 KOs) has signed a promotional contract with Top Rank, which will co-promote his bouts with SES Boxing. He is ranked No. 4 by the IBF and No. 9 by both the WBO and WBC.

Kabayel made three defenses of the European heavyweight title before vacating the crown to pursue opportunities stateside. He will make his Top Rank debut on an ESPN platform in either late 2019 or early 2020.

“My American Dream has come true,” Kabayel said. “I can’t wait to showcase my skills in the U.S. and on ESPN. As the European champion, the time is now to go all in and achieve my lifetime goal of becoming the first German world heavyweight champion since the great Max Schmeling.”

“We are delighted to join forces with Bob Arum and Top Rank to present Agit Kabayel on ESPN, the biggest sports platform in the world,” said SES Boxing President Benedikt Poelchau. 

“Agit is ready for the world’s best heavyweights, and at only 26 years of age, the best is yet to come. Like all great fighters, Agit wants to make his mark in America,” said Ulf Steinforth, founder of SES Boxing. 

Kabayel, who was born in Germany to Kurdish parents, has fought 14 of his 19 pro bouts in his home country. An eight-year pro, Kabayel won the vacant European crown in February 2017 with a 12-round unanimous decision over Herve Hubeaux. Nine months later, he scored his most high-profile victory, a majority decision over perennial contender Derek Chisora. A seasoned veteran who has sparred lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and former unified champion Anthony Joshua, Kabayel opened his 2019 campaign March 2 with an impressive unanimous decision over Andriy Rudenko in Magdeburg, Germany. 

New York, September 3, 2019–Star Boxing’s newest star, heavyweight world title challenger, CARLOS TAKAM (36-5-1, 28 KO) has been added to the September 14 “Catskills Clash II” at Resorts World Catskills in Monticello, New York. Takam will headline an already fantastic card, with featured bouts by New England’s top undefeated prospects, “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (E. Hartford, CT 11-0 4KO’s) and light heavyweight, RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (Hartford, CT 12-0 10KO’s).

Takam’s global fan base last saw the strong heavyweight in December of 2018, when he defeated respected German prospect, SENAD GASHI (then 17-1 17KO’s) at the 02 Arena in the UK. Takam was scheduled to fight undisputed cruiserweight champion, OLEKSANDR USYK (16-0 12KO’s) this past May but Usyk pulled out of that fight with an injury. The Usyk fight was not rescheduled so Takam will forge his own path back to heavyweight supremacy, starting at Resorts World Catskills on September 14.

Now under a new trainer, DWIGHT YARDE, and promoter, JOE DEGUARDIA, Takam is poised to make a run at a heavyweight world title. With a team by his side that is dedicated to giving him the right opportunities to be successful, the Cameroon born, French citizen has his sights set on being a fully prepared and dangerous version of himself, that the world has yet to see fully.

In the “Catskills Clash II” main event, Carlos Takam will take on, 6’5″ Detroit native, CRAIG LEWIS (14-3-1 8KO’s). A sparring partner of WBC Heavyweight World champion, DEONTAY WILDER, Lewis is no stranger to working with the elite of the heavyweight division. Lewis is highly regarded veteran coming off a majority decision and close fights with two top prospects with combined record of 37-0 with 23 KO’s. Lewis has never been stopped in his career.

Takam had this to say about the opportunity to fight in the United States for the first time, “For my return on September 14 at Resorts World Catskills, … I’m really excited. USA is new for me. I have to create my fan base there. Only good job and humility can do this. And I can tell you, I’m ready to satisfy USA boxing fans as I did in Africa, in Europe and elsewhere before. No doubt, I am ready to do the Job.”

Trainer, DWIGHT YARDE, had this to say about the next step in Carlos’ career, “The fans can expect a new and rejuvenated Carlos Takam, in the best shape of his life and more determined and focused on his boxing. With regards to coming to America, this will enable Carlos to fight on an even playing field on his quest to become a heavyweight champion, while showcasing his skills to the American audience.”

Star Boxing Promoter, JOE DEGUARDIA, said this about Carlos’ return on September 14, “Carlos is ready to fight, anywhere, anytime. With the team we have assembled around him, and the opportunity to bring him to the United States for the first time, I know the American fans will be thrilled to see elite level heavyweight action at Resorts World Catskills.” DeGuardia continued, “we are excited and plan on bringing Carlos the biggest and best opportunities on the path to a world heavyweight championship opportunity.”

The last show at Resorts World Catskills was a resounding success that had all fans and experts alike raving about the quality of the fights. The Catskills which has had a storied boxing history hosting everyone from Rocky Marciano to Mike Tyson welcomes its second boxing show back after a long hiatus at the beautiful and majestic Resorts World Catskills, a full casino with live table gaming and full sports book only 90 minutes from NYC.

Bethlehem, PA (September 3, 2019)–World-Ranked junior welterweight Mykal Fox will look to continue his winning ways when he takes on hard-punching Eudy Bernardo in the 10-round main event on Saturday September 14th at The Wind Creek Event Center (Formerly Sands Bethlehem Event Center).

The nine-bout card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Fox of Upper Marlboro, Maryland has a record of 20-1 with five knockouts.

The 23 year-old Fox, who is currently ranked number-15 by the WBA, won his first 19 bouts which were highlighted by wins over Ricardo Garcia (14-1), former world champion DeMarcus Corley and Gonzalo Dallera (5-0), before suffering his only blemish which was a narrow decision to undefeated Shohjahon Ergashev on ShoBox: The New Generation.

Fox rebounded in a big way, as in his last outing, he was impressive in winning a unanimous decision over 2016 Olympic Gold Medal winner Fazliddin Gaibnazarov on May 11th in Tucson, Arizona.

Bernardo of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic has a record of 24-4 with 18 knockouts.

Like Fox, The 32 year-old Bernardo won his first 19 bouts.

In just his 4th bout, he won the Dominican Republic Lightweight Title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Jose Antonio Rodriguez Silvencia (3-0). Bernardo continued his winning ways with victories over Tomas Mendez (8-0), Darnell Jiles Jr. (8-1-1) and Mendez again (20-5).

Bernardo has been featured several times on national television, and is coming off a 10-round decision defeat to undefeated Kendo Castaneda (15-0) on March 28th in San Antonio, Texas.

In the eight-round co-feature, Erik Spring of Reading, PA battles Courtney Pennington in a junior middleweight fight.

Spring has a record of 13-2-2 with one knockout.

The five year-professional has won three straight fights, and has victories over two undefeated foes in Simon Henriksson (4-0) and David Wilson (5-0-1). In Spring’s last outing, He won a eight-round unanimous decision over Nicholas Hernandez at The sands Bethlehem Event Center.

Pennington of Brooklyn, New York has a record of 12-4-3 with five knockouts,

The 32 year-old is a seven year pro, and he has an impressive resume with wins over Rich Neves (9-2-2), Boyd Melson (15-1-1), Khiary Gray (14-1-1), former world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez and Steven Martinez (18-3).

In Pennington’s last outing, he dropped a 10-round decision to 2016 U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell on June 8th at Madison Square Garden.

In eight-round bouts:

Nicolas Hernandez (9-4-1, 2 KOs) of Lebanon, PA takes on Terrance Williams (5-3-1, 1 KO) of Harrisburg, PA in a junior middleweight fight.

In six-round bouts:

Martino Jules (6-0) of Allentown, PA fights Michael Stoute (3-1) of Long Island, New York in a featherweight contest.

Jonathan Torres (5-0, 1 KO) of Bethlehem, PA takes on Kaylin Waites (1-3) of Dallas, TX in a bantamweight fight.

Rasheed Johnson (6-2, 2 KOs) of Willow Grove, PA mixes it up with Kashon Hutchinson (5-5 1 KO) of Reading PA in a welterweight fight.

In four-round bouts:

Khainell Wheeler of Bethlehem (2-0, 2 KOs) fights Juan Zapata (6-15-2, 4 KOs) of Bronx, NY in a super middleweight tussle.

Brandon Mullins (5-0, 2 KOs) of Newark, DE fights Brent Oren (1-1) of Harrisburg, PA in a middleweight fight.

Jose Lopez (0-1-1) of New York takes on Jerrod Miner (1-6-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia in a bantamweight contest

THERE WILL BE A PRESS CONFERENCE ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12TH IN THE BUCKS ROOM AT THE WIND CREEK BETHLEHEM BEGINNING AT 4 PM

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $35,$50, $70 and $100, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.