NEW YORK – August 6, 2019 – Undisputed middleweight world champion Claressa Shields’ attempt at history has been rescheduled for Saturday, October 5 live on SHOWTIME. Shields will aim to make history as the fastest fighter in boxing, male or female, to become a three-division world champion when she takes on former world champion Ivana Habazin for the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight Title on SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (9 p.m. ET/ 6 p.m. PT) from Dort Federal Event Center in Flint, Mich.

The vacant WBC Women’s Diamond Super Welterweight Championship will also be on the line in Shields’ first professional fight in her hometown.

The homecoming fight was initially scheduled for August 17 and postponed in June after Shields suffered a minor injury to her right knee while doing roadwork.

Shields vs. Habazin is promoted by Salita Promotions. Tickets for the live event go on sale today/Tuesday, August 6 at 2 p.m. ET and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Center box office.

The 24-year-old Shields (9-0, 2 KOs) is a two-division titlist who became the undisputed middleweight champion with a near-shutout victory over Christina Hammer in April on SHOWTIME. In doing so, she joined Terrence Crawford, Jermain Taylor, Bernard Hopkins, Oleksandr Usyk and Cecilia Braekhus as the only fighters to have unified all four major world titles in any weight class (Katie Taylor has since joined the prestigious list).

Now, the Flint star seeks to make even more history in her sixth headlining appearance on SHOWTIME. With a win over Habazin, Shields would become a three-division champion in just 10 bouts, breaking the record of Vasiliy Lomachenko, who accomplished the feat in 12 fights.

“I’m more excited than ever. I’m 100 percent recovered, and I can’t wait to get back in the ring and fight in front of my hometown fans in Flint as undisputed champion of the world,” said Shields. “Having the opportunity to become world champion in a third weight division faster than any man or woman in boxing history will make October 5 a night I will cherish forever. It’s another big step in history, and giant step forward in lifting women’s boxing on the road to equality.”

Habazin (20-3, 7 KOs), of Zagreb, Croatia, is ranked No. 1 by the WBO at 154 pounds. The 29-year-old, who will be making her U.S. debut, won the IBF Welterweight Title over Sabrina Giuliani in 2014. In her next fight, Habazin dropped a unanimous decision to Braekhus in a historic unification bout where Braekhus picked up all four major world title belts. Most recently, Habazin avenged one of only three losses in her career to Eva Bajic in Zagreb.

“It’s an honor and a dream to fight in the U.S. on national television,” Habazin said. “A lot of fighters never get this opportunity in their careers so I know I need to make the most of it. I’ve been training for this fight since June and the postponement has only given me more time to get ready. I intend to put my best effort forward to impress the fans and show that I am for real.

“I am not just coming to fight for a world title, I am fighting for my life and my career. I believe I am the best and now I got the chance to prove that, and there is no better opponent for that than Claressa Shields.”

Shields was the first American boxer in history – male or female – to win consecutive Olympic gold medals. She turned professional following the 2016 Olympics and headlined the first women’s boxing main event in premium television history in just her second professional fight in 2017. Shields became unified women’s super middleweight world champion in just her fourth professional fight, and a two-division champion in her sixth professional contest. She was crowned the undisputed 160-pound champion in her ninth fight, less than three years after turning professional following the 2016 Olympics.

“From Christy Martin and Laila Ali to Cris Cyborg and Ronda Rousey, and now Claressa Shields, SHOWTIME has long been the pioneer in women’s combat sports,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION. “Without question, Claressa Shields is the face of women’s boxing and we’re excited to present yet another historic milestone in her career as she looks to capture a third division championship in record time. This is Claressa’s sixth appearance on SHOWTIME and yet another test as she continues her personal quest to become the greatest of all time.”

“With the new date, this fight is going to be even more significant,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “Claressa has had time to get 100 percent healthy and in the best shape of her life as she goes down in weight to fight for another historic accomplishment. On the other hand, Ivana has used this extra time to prepare for Claressa both mentally and physically. She has remained in camp throughout the summer as she prepares to come to America to upset Claressa and fulfill what she feels is her destiny. It’s going to be two fighters at the top of their games.”

“October 5 will be a magnificent event for Claressa Shields, for women’s boxing, and for Claressa’s hometown city of Flint,” said Mark Taffet, manager of Claressa Shields. “Claressa continues to shine a beacon of light on the sport, making history in each and every fight and reaching levels previously unimaginable. She is a once in a lifetime athlete and young woman, and if she is victorious on October 5 she will become the fastest man or woman in boxing history to win a world title in a third weight division.”

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.

The undercard for the telecast will be announced in the coming weeks.

LAS VEGAS, NV (August 6, 2019) – Undefeated welterweight prospect, Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (11-0-1, 7 KOs), who is managed by Prince Ranch Boxing and promoted by Golden Boy Promotions, returns to the ring on Thursday, August 22, 2019, at the Fantasy Springs Resort and Casino in Indio, CA. Cobbs will face fellow undefeated foe Steve Villalobos (11-0-1, 9 KOs) in a 10-round bout. On the line will be Cobbs Jr. NABF title.

Cobbs vs. Villalobos will be shown live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Cobbs, who is also advised by Shahid Malik of 2930, is coming off two impressive wins. In his last bout, he scored a sixth round KO against Robert Redmond Jr (7-2-2, 6 KOs), and before that he soundly defeated former undefeated prospect, Ferdinand Kerobyan (11-1, 6 KOs), giving him his first loss as a processional. Cobbs is excited about facing another undefeated fighter and plans to end his unbeaten streak.

“Everyone knows I’ll fight anyone they put in front of me.” said Cobbs, who is known for being charismatic in the ring. “I’m looking forward to this fight with Villalobos, who is also undefeated. These are the type of fights where the cream rises to the top, and I won’t be left behind. I’m Blair “Anytime-Anywhere-The-Flair” Cobbs. Whoooo!”

“Blair Cobbs is on fire right now and he wants to show the world that he belongs with the best welterweights in the world.” said manager Greg Hannley of Prince Ranch Boxing. “A win against another undefeated fighter like Villalobos will surely be a statement victory. Look for Blair to shine on August 22nd.”

Feliciano vs. Gamez is a 10-round super lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The fight will take place Thursday, August 22, 2019 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The event will be streamed live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The series will also be available on regional sports networks around the nation. To see when and where the series is available in your area, click here.

Tickets for the event are on sale and start at $25. Tickets will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Media interested covering Feliciano vs. Gamez must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are due Monday, Aug. 19 at 5:00 p.m. PT. Click here to apply for a media credential. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval for a credential on-site, no expectations.

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 @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #FelicianoGamez, #ThursdayNightFights and #TNF.

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

FRANK WARREN and Queensberry Promotions return to York Hall on Saturday September 14 with a triple bill of title fights starring some of British boxing’s finest prospects, live on BT Sport.

Croydon’s Sunny Edwards (12-0, 4 KOs) drops down in weight to challenge Mexico’s Hugo Rosendo Guarneros (16-2-2, 8 KOs) for the vacant IBF International flyweight crown at the famous East London venue.

Brad Foster (11-0-1, 4KOS) makes the second defence of his British super bantamweight title against Lucien Reid (8-0-1, 4KOs).

Dec Spelman (16-2, 8KOs) risks his English light-heavyweight championship against Shakan Pitters (12-0, 4KOs).

And, in a magnificent British light-heavyweight title eliminator, expect fireworks when Zak Chelli (7-0, 3KOs) comes up against Kody Davies (9-0, 3 KOs).

Edwards said: “I must be making a name for myself in Mexico because this is the third boxer from there I’ve faced.

“I haven’t looked at him because I say, ‘Yes’ to any opponent I am offered. As long as my trainer Grant Smith is fine with the opponent, I am.”

Edwards who has been campaigning at super-flyweight added: “Going down to flyweight is another new adventure, but I can make the weight nicely and show what I am all about.”

Lichfield’s Foster, 21, won the British title by beating Josh Wale on points in March before stopping Ashley Lane in the final round at Stevenage in May.

The former kick boxer now faces the challenge from accomplished former amateur star Reid.

“He is a good fighter and I don’t expect anything less with him fighting me for the British title,” said the champion of his challenger.

“He’s had a good amateur background and knows how to fight, so I will have to be at my best and I know I will win on the night.”

Reid, who recently teamed up with new trainer Alan Smith in Bromley said: “I now have the perfect team to capitalise and winning this title will mean so much.

“Brad is accomplished and well schooled, but I have boxed his style and every other one all over the world as an amateur. That will be the difference in this fight.”

Spelman will be seeking revenge after losing to Pitters last November in a Ultimate Boxxer competition, which his rival eventually won.

Scunthorpe’s Spelman said: “We fought over three rounds and obviously tasted a bit of each other, so we know what we are both about and it will be interesting. I am looking forward to it.

“That is where I feel comfy over the longer distance. I am mentally strong, I hit hard and carry my power all the way through.”

Birmingham’s Pitters added: “What happened at Ultimate Boxxer counts for nothing and I am not even thinking of that win against Dec.

“I’m just grateful for the opportunity and commend Dec for picking me as a defence, because there are easier fights.”

Fulham’s Chelli who never shirks a challenge has now moved up to light-heavyweight.

Last October he beat former amateur star Umar Sadiq on points and in April won the Southern area super-middleweight crown against Jimmy Smith.

Now he comes up against former Team GB elite amateur Davies, who has also made an impressive and unbeaten start in the pro ranks.

Chelli says: ”Basically I am 21 and still growing. The weight was an issue for me in the Umar Sadiq fight and it was an even bigger issue against Jimmy Smith, but I wanted that title.

“I like to have these fights against undefeated boxers. It is exciting and it is what the public want. They don’t want a predictable fight, do they?

Emerging Welsh prospect Davies, 25, added: “I’m over the moon with this fight being made.

“Thanks to SJAM & Frank Warren For making it happen. Everyone is finally gonna see what a focused, motivated Kody Davies is capable of, and it’s far more than domestic level.

“This is a nice little stepping stone for me and a nice route to burst onto bigger title fights.”

Also in action on the talent stacked bill Harvey Horn (6-0, 2KOs), Boy Jones Jr (18-3-1, 8KOs), Jake Pettitt (6-0, 1KO), James Branch Jr (5-0, 1KO), Mark Chamberlain (3-0, 2KOs), Umar Sadiq (6-1, 3KOs), Caoimhin Agyako (4-0, 1KO) Mickey Burke Jr (1-0) and Chris Bourke (4-0, 4KOs)

Tickets are on sale via www.ticketmaster.co.uk. Prices £40 – Unreserved Floor, £50 – Unreserved Balcony, £60 – Reserved Floor.

Lincoln, RI (Aug. 6, 2019) — There’s a time in every boxer’s career when he or she hopes to take the leap from prospect to contender.

While there’s no set timetable for when a fighter is supposed to climb the next rung on the ladder, most will know when their time has come. With that designation comes additional responsibilities and expectations. Fights are more competitive, training camps are usually longer and more exhausting and, for the select few lucky enough to get this far, the paydays are much brighter.

At 11-0, Worcester, MA, lightweight Jamaine Ortiz is still considered a prospect by most, but the reigning WBC Youth World Champion doesn’t plan on staying in that lane for too long. If Ortiz has his way, he’ll be in the conversation among the sport’s top 135-pounders within the next year and a half, if he isn’t already.

“My job is to be ready for that opportunity,” said Ortiz, who returns Friday night at Twin River Casino Hotel in the co-main event of CES Boxing’s summer-ending showcase at the Event Center.

“I have big goals. I want to go up that ladder. I’m not just content with that WBC belt. My main mission is to win multiple world titles.”

Since capturing the WBC Youth crown in February with a convincing win over previously-unbeaten Oxnard, CA, native Ricardo Quiroz, Ortiz may have officially made the leap from prospect to contender. The belt he wears now was worn by some of the sport’s best, from Canelo Alvarez to Chad Dawson, and being part of the hierarchy of WBC champions usually results in instant gratification in the form of higher rankings and notoriety.

Eight weeks after beating Quiroz, Ortiz returned to Twin River and made quick work of Brazilian Vitor Jones, stopping the veteran by first-round knockout. Now he faces another relatively unknown international standout in Romain Couture (8-1-1, 4 KO), a budding prospect from France who fights on U.S. soil for the first time.

Tickets start at $47 and are available online at www.cesboxing.com or www.showclix.com. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET and the first fight begins at 7.

For Ortiz, these last few months have provided unrivaled peace of mind, specifically now that he has overcome the hand injuries that kept him out of action for most of 2018. Rest and recovery allowed him to avoid surgery, and he returned with a bang in February to beat Quiroz following a nine-month layoff, eschewing the tune-up fight most boxers demand after such a long time away from the ring.

Ortiz is a rare breed, a fighter who knows he can’t be the best unless he beats the best. That mentality carried him through his amateur career when he won more than 100 fights and earned a trip to the semifinals of the U.S. Olympic Trials in Nevada. As a pro, he continues to move forward, stepping up the level of competition each time, provided most lightweights in his path don’t try to avoid him.

“Right now, I feel like I don’t have the spotlight I want yet, so whoever is in front of me, I’m going to knock down until I get there,” Ortiz said. “I know a lot of people want the belt, so I have to stay focused.”

The 23-year-old Ortiz is aware of his surroundings and knows who currently owns that spotlight in the 135- and even the 140-pound divisions, prime contenders such as Ryan Garcia or Devin Haney, both of whom Ortiz envisions himself fighting in the near future. He’s also wary of the upsets this year that have turned the sport on its ear, so he’s cautious of getting too far ahead of himself or overlooking any of his opponents regardless of their experience.

“Anything can happen. This is boxing,” Ortiz said. “I don’t let up on anyone. Regardless of what happened in February and with me winning the title, my work ethic hasn’t changed one bit. I still train hard. Now I’m just more focused.”

As an apprentice carpenter and member of the Local 107 carpenter’s union, Ortiz has flexibility with his job that allows him to take time off when necessary in preparation for a fight, a luxury most fighters don’t have. He’s reached the point in his career where he understand he needs to put everything he has into boxing in order to reach the lofty goals he’s set for himself.

Some may still consider him a prospect, but as he continues to mow down one opponent after another, it’s hard to look at the hard-hitting, elusive Ortiz as a serious contender in the 135-pound division.

“When my time comes, I’m going to put on a show,” Ortiz said. “I just finished one of the best camps I’ve ever had. I’m pain-free for the first time in a while. If I want to be the best, I have to prove it. Whatever competition is in front of me, I’m ready for it.”

Next Friday’s main event features reigning NBA Heavyweight World Champion Juiseppe Cusumano (18-2, 16 KOs) of Sicily in the quest to add another belt to his collection when he battles “The Gentle Giant” Steve Vukosa (11-1, 4 KOs) of nearby Quincy, MA, in an eight-round bout for the vacant WBC USNBC crown.

In the co-main event, WBC Youth World Lightweight Champion Jamaine Ortiz (11-0, 6 KOs) of Worcester, MA, puts his unbeaten record on the line in an eight-round showdown against French challenger Romain Couture (8-1-1, 4 KOs), who makes his United States debut.

The undercard features six undefeated prospects looking to keep their perfect records, including Pawtucket, RI, featherweight Ricky De Los Santos (8-0, 1 KO), who battles Reading, PA, vet and Dominican standout Yeuri Andujar (4-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round featured bout. Lightweight Michael Valentin (6-0, 1 KO) of Providence, RI, also steps up in his toughest test to date against Philadelphia’s Lonnie Jackson Jr. (4-1-1, 1 KO), in a six-round special attraction.

Another red-hot fighter, Marqus Bates (7-2, 5 KOs) of Taunton, MA, aims for his sixth consecutive win in an intriguing six-round welterweight bout against well-traveled Lancaster, PA, vet Evincii Dixon (8-23-2, 3 KOs), who fights for the 34th time in six years and returns to Rhode Island for the first time since 2013.

Also facing a tall order on the undercard, Big Six Boxing Academy super welterweights Victor Reynoso (4-0, 4 KOs) and Lamont Powell (4-0, 1 KO), both of Providence, put their identical records on the line in four-round featured bouts. Reynoso battles Canadian Kenny Chery (2-2, 1 KO), whom Powell faced in February, while Powell looks to build off his impressive win in April in a major step-up against Reading’s Ricardo Garcia (14-7-1, 9 KOs), a Dominican Republic native and veteran of 22 professional fights.

A potential showstopper between unbeaten super lightweight prospects Elijah Peixoto (1-0, 1 KO) of East Providence, RI, and 26-year-old “Slick Hands” Carlos Otero (2-0) of Tampa highlights the preliminary card. Peixoto debuted earlier this year in grand fashion with a knockout win over Carlos Galindo. Otero, a decorated amateur much like Peixoto, returns from a two-year layoff. Worcester, MA, welterweight Nicholas Briggs (4-0, 3 KOs), also unbeaten, returns to face Macon, GA, native Bryan Goldsby (5-13), a veteran of 18 professional bouts.

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

Petchdam Petchyindee Academy, one of the brightest stars in martial arts, will defend his ONE Flyweight Kickboxing World Championship in a homecoming bout at ONE: DREAMS OF GOLD on 16 August at the Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand.

Petchdam is set to face Dutch-Moroccan kickboxer Ilias Ennahachi in which could be the stiffest challenge he has faced since he won the title. Ennahachi, who recently signed a two-year deal with ONE Championship, isn’t intimidated by Petchdam and is hoping to disappoint Thai fans.

Ennahachi is an athlete on the rise, so it’s easy to see how he caught the eye of ONE CEO Chatri Sityodtong and other pundits. Earlier this year, Combat Press ranked him in the Top 10 in the world.

Ennahachi has compiled a record of 29-2 throughout his career. He’s not known for his one-strike power like Petchdam, but Ennahachi’s skills are just as efficient. His skills have led him to world titles in 2016 with BLADE and Enfusion, and the World Fighting League in 2018.

During his time with Enfusion, Ennahachi successfully defended his title three times. Most recently, Ennahachi scored a second-round knockout win over Madani Belhaddad in April — which became proof that he belongs with ONE Championship.

Ennahachi could match up well with Petchdam because, unlike most of the champion’s opponents, length won’t be an issue. Ennahachi stands 5’10, and his legs cover a ton of ground with kicks. He is also sturdy enough to absorb big shots, losing only just one of his matches by stoppage which happened five years ago.

Petchdam is aware of the challenge Ennahachi presents, but winning in his hometown is also at the back of his mind.

“I’m feeling a little bit of pressure because I don’t want to lose in Thailand,” Petchdam said. “It is also my first time fighting the main event, and it’s a World Title defense too.”

“I want to ask the Thai people to come and cheer for me once again. In my last fight, the support I received from Thai people helped me win. I could hear them from the audience cheering me on – it motivated me to keep going,” he added.

Competing in front of the home crowd is a double-edged sword. The energy of the fans can motivate an athlete, but it can also bring them pressure. Petchdam has proven in the past he can rise to the occasion, but Ennahachi will do everything to put a halt to his title reign.

PHILADELPHIA (Aug. 5, 2019) — Carl “The Jackal” Frampton was forced to drop out of Saturday’s featherweight main event against Emmanuel Dominguez at the Liacouras Center after fracturing the fifth metacarpal in his left hand. The injury occurred Monday morning at the fight hotel when someone knocked over a concrete structure, which then struck Frampton’s hand.

The Jason Sosa-Haskell Lydell Rhodes 10-round super featherweight bout has been elevated to the main event, while middleweight knockout artist Edgar Berlanga (11-0, 11 KOs) will face Gregory Trenel (11-4-2, 3 KOs) in the eight-round co-feature. Two-time Cuban Olympic gold medalist Robeisy Ramirez’s highly anticipated pro debut — a four-rounder at featherweight versus Adan Gonzales — will round out the tripleheader, which begins at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN+.

Said Frampton: “I’m gutted, gutted for the people that paid their hard-earned money to make the trip to support me. I’ve spent the summer away from my family training for the fight, all a waste now because of this freak accident.”

All ticket refunds can be made at the Liacouras Center Box Office, Ticketmaster.com or call 1-800-745-3000. Ticket refunds will be valid until Wednesday, Aug. 7.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, remaining tickets priced at $100, $55 and $35 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office and www.liacourascenter.com, or by calling Peltz Boxing at 215-765-0922.

New York, NY (August 5, 2019) On Thursday, August 29, DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing series will return to Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Mashantucket, CT, with a loaded card headlined by Toka Kahn Clary taking on Irvin Gonzalez in a 10-round super featherweight contest. WBA women’s super middleweight world champion Alicia Napoleon-Espinosa will also defend her title in the co-feature. The event will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Tickets for the Broadway Boxing event, presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance, are priced at $125, $75 and $45, and can be purchased online at Foxwoods.com, Ticketmaster.com, by calling 800-200-2882, or visiting the Foxwoods box office. Foxwoods Resort Casino is located at 350 Trolley Line Boulevard, Mashantucket, Connecticut 06338. Doors will open to the Fox Theater at 6:30 p.m., with the first fight scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

“Broadway Boxing returns to Foxwoods Resort Casino, in Mashantucket, CT, on Thursday, August 29, with a loaded card streamed live on UFC Fight Pass,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The main event will feature a terrific New England matchup of super featherweights Toka Kahn Clary and Irvin Gonzalez. The card will also illustrate DiBella Entertainment’s commitment to showcasing women’s boxing, with world champion Alicia Napoleon-Espinosa defending her title in the co-feature and top female contenders Kali Reis and Helen Joseph competing as well. The undercard will have a great mix of contenders and prospects, including unbeaten heavyweight Stephan Shaw, Hershey Normatov continuing his rise in the junior middleweight division and amateur star Fazliddin Meliboev, from Uzbekistan, making his pro debut.”

New England super featherweights Toka “T Nice” Kahn Clary (26-2, 18 KOs), of Providence, RI, and Irvin Gonzalez (12-1, 9 KOs), of Worcester, MA, will clash in the 10-round main event. Victorious in seven of his last eight starts, the 27-year-old Clary, a native of Liberia, returns following a fifth-round knockout of Carlos Manuel Reyes on May 17, also at Foxwoods Resort Casino. Prior to the Reyes stoppage, Clary lost a hotly contested 12-round unanimous decision to world ranked and undefeated contender Kid Galahad on October 20, 2018, in Boston, MA. Unbeaten through his first 12 fights as a professional, the 23-year-old Gonzalez is looking to rebound from his only loss to Elijah Pierce on May 17.

In a 10-round women’s world championship bout, Alicia “The Empress” Napoleon-Espinosa (11-1, 6 KOs), of Lindenhurst, NY, will defend her WBA super middleweight world title against undefeated contender Shemelle Baldwin (3-0-1, 2 KOs), of Newark, DE. Napoleon-Espinosa will be making the second defense of her world title that she captured on March 3, 2018, with a 10-round decision versus previously undefeated Femke Hermans in front of her legion of fans at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY. She followed that with a 10-round world title defense against Hannah Rankin on August 4, 2018, at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY. Napoleon-Espinosa began 2019 with a second-round knockout of Eva Bajic on April 10, in New York City. Before turning pro in November 2017, Baldwin was a Washington D.C. Golden Gloves champion, a three-time Pennsylvania Golden Gloves champion, and a 2015 Olympic Trials semi-finalist.

Undefeated heavyweight Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw (11-0, 8 KOs), of St. Louis, MO, will square off against southpaw Johnnie Langston (7-1, 3 KOs), of Sarasota, FL, in an eight-round contest. The 6’4″ Shaw is determined to keep up the momentum from his last two impressive knockout victories against Aaron Chavers last October and Donovan Dennis in March. Following a stellar amateur career that included 2013 PAL and USA National Championships titles, Shaw turned professional in December 2013. Langston will seek to return to the win column following a majority decision loss to Lyubomyr Pinchuk in July.

Fazliddin Meliboev, a 22-year-old from Kokand, Uzbekistan, co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., will make his pro debut in a six-round bout. The southpaw Meliboev was an amateur star who was an Uzbekistan National champion in 2015. He won silver medals at the 2017 Great Silk Way Tournament in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the 2016 Chinggis Khan Cup in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, and a bronze medal at the 2014 Asian Youth Boxing Championships in Bangkok, Thailand. He also participated in the World Series of Boxing, winning all three of his bouts.

Southpaw junior middleweight prospect Hurshidbek “Hershey” Normatov (8-0, 3 KOs), of Andijan, Uzbekistan, and now based in Brooklyn, NY, will compete in his first eight-rounder. He has defeated two previously unbeaten prospects in Alexis Gaytan and Nicklaus Flaz and, in his last fight, decisioned 9-1-1 Calvin Metcalf on April 10. As an amateur, Normatov accumulated a 190-40 record and won the European Amateur National Championships in 2014.

Former WBC middleweight world champion Kali “KO Mequinonoag” Reis (15-7-1, 5 KOs), of Providence, RI, and Helen “Iron Lady” Joseph (16-3-2, 10 KOs), of New Haven, CT, a former IBF Inter-Continental featherweight titlist, will compete in separate six-round bouts. Last May, Reis clashed with undisputed welterweight champion Cecilia Braekhus in the first women’s bout telecast on HBO, losing a hard-fought 10-rounder in Carson, CA. Reis has returned with two wins in a row, most recently scoring a sixth-round stoppage of Szilvia Szabados on October 19, 2018, in Washington, D.C. On August 3, Joseph dropped then decisioned Hungarian Edina Kiss over six rounds in Brooklyn, NY.

Popular welterweight prospect Adrian “Tonka” Sosa (11-0, 9 KOs), of Lawrence, MA, will see action in a scheduled six-rounder. The 24-year-old Sosa has scored four knockouts in a row following his decision victory against previously unbeaten prospect Khiry Todd last year. Sosa was a 2014 New England Golden Gloves champion and turned pro in July 2016 following an 18-2 amateur career.

Two local newcomers will be featured with Puerto Rican lightweight Nelson “Chino” Perez (1-0, 1KO), of Marlboro, MA, and Bridgeport, CT, super featherweight Jacob Marrero (3-0, 2 KOs) each boxing in four-round bouts. Compiling an amateur record of 58-9, Marrero was a 2016 New England Golden Gloves Champion, a five-time Connecticut Silver Gloves Champion and a five-time Connecticut Junior Olympics Champion.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (August 5, 2019) – This past Saturday at the Alzafar Shrine in San Antonio, TX, Female lightweight contender, Selina “Aztec Queen” Barrios improved to (6-1, 3 KOs) after knocking out Nina Gallegos with a vicious body shot just 42 seconds into round one. Supreme Boxing Promotions was the promoter.

“It was beautiful to see the fans of San Antoinio come out and support our boxing event last night. I wanted to make a statement with a knockout performance, and I was blessed to deliver it. The boxing community and fans in San Antonio are incredible. I’m hoping we can continue to bring more boxing shows to our great city.”

Barrios, the NABF Lightweight champion is looking to get back on world title run.

“My focus now is landing a big fight with any top fighter in the super featherweight or lightweight division,” Barrios continued. “My manager is working on a few things and my next fight will be announced sometime soon, hopefully against a big name.”

“We have plans for Selina to be in a big fight sometime in 2020,” said Kerry Dangle, Barrios’ co-manager. “I think she will be best suited if we can keep her busy, maybe one more tune up fight before we step her up again.”

“Selina is ready to go on a nice run.” said Colin Campbell, Barrios’ co-manager. “She really stepped up her game during training camp and it paid off. She’ll be in a big fight very soon.”

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 5, 2019): Hall of Famer Carlos ‘El Cañas’ Zarate will be the special VIP guest for the event headlined by the 10-round clash between undefeated prospects Luis Feliciano (12-0, 8 KOs) and Genaro “El Conde” Gamez (9-0, 6 KOs) on the Aug. 22 edition Golden Boy DAZN Thursday Night Fights at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The fights will be streamed live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The series will also be available on regional sports networks around the nation.

Zarate is a legendary Mexican boxer who was undefeated in his first eight years as a professional. In 1976, Zarate won the WBC Bantamweight World Title. He then defended his crown nine times over the next three years, all ending by knockout. One of Zarate’s most memorable fights was against WBA Bantamweight World Champion Alfonso Zamora. He also fought the likes of Wilfredo “Bazooka”Gómez, Lupe “El Grillo de Cuajimalpa” Pintor, Jeff “Brick Top” Fenech and Daniel “The Mouse” Zaragoza among others. Zarate ended his Hall of Fame career with 66 wins (63 by knockout) and just four losses.

Zarate will be in attendance for this event to meet fans, sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

In the co-main event, Blair “The Flair” Cobbs (11-0-1, 7 KOs) of Las Vegas, Nevada will fight against Steve “Manos de Oro” Villalobos (11-0-1, 9 KOs) of Mount Vernon, Wash. in a 10-round welterweight battle.

Kevin Ventura (10-0, 8 KOs) of Omaha, Nebraska will participate in a six-round lightweight fight against Brian Gallegos (6-1, 4 KOs) of Las Vegas.

Raul “Cougar” Curiel (6-0, 4 KOs) of Tamaulipas, Mexico will fight Alphonso Black (8-6-1, 4 KOs) of Saint Peterson, Florida in a six-round super welterweight bout.

Richard “Kansas Kid” Acevedo (5-0, 5 KOs) of Garden City, Kansas will participate in a six-round super welterweight fight against Jose Rivera (8-4, 5 KOs) of Manchester, Conn.

Nicholas Sullivan, the recently signed amateur standout of Norwalk,Va., will make his professional debut in a four-round lightweight fight.

Anthony Garnica (3-0, 2 KOs) of Oakland, Calif. will fight in a four-round super bantamweight clash.

Additional opponents for the undercard will be announced shortly.

Feliciano vs. Gamez is a 10-round super lightweight fight presented by Golden Boy. The event is sponsored by Tecate “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING.” The fight will take place Thursday, August 22, 2019 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. The event will be streamed live on RingTV.com and on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The series will also be available on regional sports networks around the nation. To see when and where the series is available in your area, click here.

Tickets for the event are on sale and start at $25. Tickets will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com

Media interested covering Feliciano vs. Gamez must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are due Monday, Aug. 19 at 5:00 p.m. PT. Click here to apply for a media credential. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval for a credential on-site, no expectations.

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 @GoldenBoyBoxing and @DAZN_USA. Follow the conversation using #FelicianoGamez, #ThursdayNightFights and #TNF.

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

Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren today held a press conference at BT Tower to announce major title fights for Daniel Dubois and Nicola Adams at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Friday September 27, live on BT Sport.

Londoner Dubois (12-0, 11KOs) takes on unbeaten Ebenezer Tetteh (19-0, 16KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight title providing the Ghanaian comes through a warm-up on August 10.

The bout was mandated by the Commonwealth Boxing Council after Joe Joyce relinquished the title.

Adams who was elevated to WBO female flyweight champion last week, by virtue of her Interim title status will be in world title action, possibly in a unification showdown.

There is a tentative agreement for Adams (5-0, 3KOs) to meet the winner of the August 16 clash between Argentina’s IBF World champion Leonela Paola Yudica and Mexican Isabel Millan, who Nicola beat for interim title — providing the winner comes through unscathed.

If the winner is unavailable through injury for the London date next month, Adams will defend her WBO crown at the Royal Albert Hall and her following fight will be a unification match.

Here are a selection of quotes.

FRANK WARREN
“Daniel is one of the youngest boxers to ever win the British heavyweight title and the way he has beaten people tells you he is going places. His next fight is his 13th fight and if he wins he will have won seven belts and I can’t think of too many heavyweights who have done that so soon and gone into ten and 12 rounders so young in their career. You have to remember he only had seven senior bouts as an amateur. He still has a long way to go and there are things he needs to work on, but his trainer Martin Bowers has done a fantastic job. This isn’t a 100 metre race. He has got to be equipped not to just fight for a world title, but win it and defend it. Tetteh is banger and if he is anything like the last Ghanian that Daniel fought, Richard Lartey you are going to get entertainment. Daniel is for real and the most exciting young heavyweight I’ve been involved with. You feel there is a sense of anticipation and electricity when he gets in the ring.
We have got to get Nicola back on it. She has history with two Olympic golds and this is her chance to hopefully unify in what will be a historic night with the first ever world title fight between two women boxers at the Royal Albert Hall. She has got to go out there and show everyone what she can do. I want to see her fighting regularly. The Royal Albert Hall is a fantastic venue. I call it a posh York Hall.”

DANIEL DUBOIS
“I’m following in some pretty big footsteps like Lennox Lewis and Muhammad Ali who fought at the Royal Albert Hall, although Ali boxed exhibitions. Myself fighting there is testament to the work I put in to be successful. I want to climb to the top and be world heavyweight champion. The only way to do that is to come through these guys like Tetteh and win well. I feel the best is yet to come. Beating Nathan Gorman was a good win. Some things I did well like pumping the jab out and I was very determined. My overall strength and ability was too much for him. I feel I’m getting close to my goal of being world champion. It’s nice that the hard work I put in is getting rewards. I’m on a journey and loving it. If he is like another Ghanaian I boxed, Richard Lartey I need to sharpen up on a few things and I might get him out of there quicker.”

NICOLA ADAMS
“I really want to do this. It has been my ambition since I turned professional to unify the division. I want to put on a show. I couldn’t ask for more than boxing at the Royal Albert Hall. Muhammad Ali was my hero growing up and to be able to box at the same arena as he did is special. I plan on winning and unifying would be two belts for the price of one. I just want to keep collecting and getting all the titles. I am learning all the time, cut out a lot of my amateur traits and it’s been a learning curve. I am improving and taking it to the next level. If my opponent is Yudica I know how tough it will be, but I have a A, B, C, D and E game plan. I will have an answer for everything she throws.”

Tickets for the September 27th bill at the Royal Albert Hall will be available to purchase from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and www.royalalberthall.com on pre-sale sale this Wednesday (August 7) & on general sale from 1pm this Friday (August 9). Prices £40, £50, £75, £100, £150 Ringside.

Lincoln, RI (Aug. 5, 2019) — Juiseppe Cusumano feels as close as he ever has to reaching that magic moment in the sport of boxing most fighters can only dream of.

From his wild win over Brendan Barrett in February to his trip to Alabama a month later to spar with WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, Cusumano (18-2, 16 KOs) knows greatness is at the doorstep. The ball is in his court, and he’s ready to take that next step Friday night at Twin River Casino Hotel.

The hard-hitting heavyweight returns to the ring for the first time in six months Aug. 9 when he faces Quincy, MA, vet Steve Vukosa (11-1, 4 KOs) for the vacant WBC USNBC title in the eight-round main event of CES Boxing’s summer-ending spectacular at the Event Center.

The significance of winning a WBC regional title isn’t lost on Cusumano; as a historian of the sport, he recalls that Wilder captured the WBC Continental Americas title — a similar stepping stone — in 2013 and, within three fights, earned his shot at the world championship two years later against Bermane Stiverne.

This is a potential life-changing opportunity and the 31-year-old Cusumano has ensured he’s in the best shape of his life both mentally and physically knowing what’s at stake Friday night.

“These are all blessings. A lot of people in this sport wish they could have these opportunities and now I’m here getting my shot,” Cusumano said. “I went through hell in this sport and almost gave it up a few times.

“That’s why I say, ‘Never give up on your dreams.’ Now they’re starting to come true for me.”

Tickets begin at $47 and are available online at www.cesboxing.com or www.showclix.com. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET and the first fight begins at 7.

Two and a half years ago, Cusumano was close to walking away. He had dealt with bad management, depression and a bout with alcoholism, all of which kept him out of the ring and away from the sport he loved. Upon signing with CES Boxing and promoter Jimmy Burchfield Sr., he made the effort to change up his routine and work on his conditioning to get himself back into fight shape.

Since June of 2017, Cusumano has gone 8-1 under CES’ guidance and is now a serious contender in the heavyweight division. When looking at past fighters who’s won the USNBC belt, some notable names stand out. Chris Arreola went on to fight for two world titles after capturing the USNBC championship in 2012. Same for Stiverne and Eric Molina, former USNBC title-holders who eventually faced Wilder for the heavyweight championship of the world.

So why not Cusumano? If he’s successful Friday, his shot at Wilder — or any of the current heavyweight title-holders — could be around the corner. And forget what the odds might say; few gave Andy Ruiz Jr. a chance against Anthony Joshua and now Ruiz is the WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight champion after flattening Joshua in a stunning upset in June.

“That would be amazing. We could shock the world,” Cusumano said. “I’m at a loss for words because being put in this position is such a blessing. It’s finally here.”

No one other than Tyson Fury, who survived a late knockdown in November to earn a draw with Wilder, has come close to dethroning the current WBC champion, but Cusumano had the opportunity to briefly test the waters in camp earlier this year with Wilder and felt he learned a lot in just a short amount of time.

“It really showed me I have a chance to compete with the top guys. I held my own,” Cusumano said. “I hit him with some great shots. There were a few times they told me to calm down in there. I did pretty well. He does hit hard, though – especially in those 10-ounce gloves.”

Before he can dream of a money-making showdown with Wilder, Cusumano must first set his sights on the elusive, enigmatic Vukosa, a 6-foot-4 southpaw who at one point early in his career was considered one of the country’s top amateur heavyweights. Vukosa tried with the legendary Freddie Roach in the early 2000s, but suffered a knee injury so severe he decided to retire.

Twelve years later, he put aside his daytime job as a bus driver and returned in 2014 to dethrone Providence, RI, native and former Olympian Jason Estrada, an unexpected upset given his layoff. Vukosa is now attempting a second comeback following a triumphant return in July and has the speed and the slick boxing technique to give a heavy-handed heavyweight like Cusumano fits once the bell rings.

This, however, is a hungrier Cusumano, one who is itching to get back in the ring after six months off. He’s smarter, too, understanding he can no longer train at 31 the same way he did when he was 21. So he’s working more now on maintenance and focusing on the health of his joints, trading his dumbbells for swimming weights to improve his endurance and flexibility.

“I think my power has increased, but I need to be more patient, too,” he said. “I’m doing more pad work, staying calm. I usually just jump on people when the bell rings, but with some of these bigger guys you can’t do that all the time. There are times I have to set things up. I’ve been doing that a lot.”

Cusumano is also more aware of his surroundings. In addition to technique tips and the overall experience of being in a championship fight camp, Cusumano learned a little bit about how to be a professional if and when he reaches that next level. Wilder is a flamboyant champion and an outspoken advocate for the sport, but, Cusumano said, the unbeaten Alabama native generally lays low outside of the gym. His business-like approach is something all fighters can learn from, especially one like Cusumano who’s confident his time is next.

Friday could be the start of something big for the heavy-handed Sicilian if he can keep his win streak alive.

“I feel good. I’m hungrier. I’m more motivated,” Cusumano said. “I’m looking forward to this opportunity.”

In Friday’s co-main event, WBC Youth World Lightweight Champion Jamaine Ortiz (11-0, 6 KOs) of Worcester, MA, puts his unbeaten record on the line in an eight-round showdown against French challenger Romain Couture (8-1-1, 4 KOs), who makes his United States debut.

The undercard features six undefeated prospects looking to keep their perfect records, including Pawtucket, RI, featherweight Ricky De Los Santos (8-0, 1 KO), who battles Reading, PA, vet and Dominican standout Yeuri Andujar (4-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round featured bout. Lightweight Michael Valentin (6-0, 1 KO) of Providence, RI, also steps up in his toughest test to date against Philadelphia’s Lonnie Jackson Jr. (4-1-1, 1 KO), in a six-round special attraction.

Another red-hot fighter, Marqus Bates (7-2, 5 KOs) of Taunton, MA, aims for his sixth consecutive win in an intriguing six-round welterweight bout against well-traveled Lancaster, PA, vet Evincii Dixon (8-23-2, 3 KOs), who fights for the 34th time in six years and returns to Rhode Island for the first time since 2013.

Also facing a tall order on the undercard, Big Six Boxing Academy super welterweights Victor Reynoso (4-0, 4 KOs) and Lamont Powell (4-0, 1 KO), both of Providence, put their identical records on the line in four-round featured bouts. Reynoso battles Canadian Kenny Chery (2-2, 1 KO), whom Powell faced in February, while Powell looks to build off his impressive win in April in a major step-up against Reading’s Ricardo Garcia (14-7-1, 9 KOs), a Dominican Republic native and veteran of 22 professional fights.

A potential showstopper between unbeaten super lightweight prospects Elijah Peixoto (1-0, 1 KO) of East Providence, RI, and 26-year-old “Slick Hands” Carlos Otero (2-0) of Tampa highlights the preliminary card. Peixoto debuted earlier this year in grand fashion with a knockout win over Carlos Galindo. Otero, a decorated amateur much like Peixoto, returns from a two-year layoff. Worcester, MA, welterweight Nicholas Briggs (4-0, 3 KOs), also unbeaten, returns to face Macon, GA, native Bryan Goldsby (5-13), a veteran of 18 professional bouts.

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

DANIEL DUBOIS will bid to add the Commonwealth heavyweight title to his belt collection and WBO female flyweight champion Nicola Adams will be in world title action when boxing returns to the Royal Albert Hall on Friday September 27, live on BT Sport.

British champion Dubois 12-0 (11KOs), who defeated domestic rival Nathan Gorman in a thrilling encounter at the o2 Arena in July, will seek to win an incredible seventh title in just his 13th professional fight when he takes on Ebenezer Tetteh for the vacant Commonwealth crown.

Previous Commonwealth champion Joe Joyce has relinquished the title and the match between Dubois and Tetteh has been mandated by the Commonwealth Boxing Council, subject to the unbeaten Ghanaian successfully coming through a scheduled fight on August 10.

Promoter Frank Warren also has a tentative agreement for Adams to be involved in a unification clash against the winner of the August 16 clash between Argentina’s IBF champion Leonela Paola Yudica and Mexican Isabel Millan, who Nicola beat for interim title – providing the winner comes through unscathed.

If the winner is unavailable through injury for the London date next month, Nicola will defend her WBO crown at the Royal Albert Hall and her next fight will be a unification match.

Tetteh, 19-0 (16KOs), from Accra will be the second Ghanaian opposition attempting to derail Dubois, who stopped the 31-year-old’s countryman Richard Lartey in April to win the WBO Global title.

“This is a natural progression for me because I want to win every title available to me on my way to becoming a world champion,” said Dubois on his latest assignment.

“I have won the Southern Area, English and British titles already, so I am heading down what people call the traditional route, while also gaining international experience and rankings by winning the WBC Youth, WBO European and Global titles.

“So I believe this is the ideal next step for me against an unbeaten fighter with a lot of KOs to his name.

“It should make for an exciting fight at the Royal Albert Hall and I cannot wait to get back there and do my thing.”

Double Olympic champion Adams, 5-0 (3KOs), was upgraded to WBO world champion last month, by virtue of her Interim title holding status, following the removal of Arely Mucino.

The Golden Girl of British boxing will be in world title action at the Royal Albert Hall in the first ever female professional boxing match at the historic London venue.

Warren added: “I am delighted to be taking another top show back to the Royal Albert Hall, which is such a special venue for boxing.

“It is another ideal test for Daniel in fighting for the vacant Commonwealth title against another dangerous opponent from Ghana. If this turns out to be anything like the Richard Lartey fight then the fans are in for a treat.

“The name of the game for Daniel now is for us to keep stepping him up and him picking up experience. It is only a matter of time before he will reach a mandatory position for a world title.

“Nicola is already in possession of a world title and I am sure she will want to confirm her status with a fine performance in the ring.

“It is only onwards and upwards for our Leading Lady now and this world title is just the beginning for her.”

The show will also feature the WBO European super featherweight champion Archie Sharp, middleweight banger Denzel Bentley, heavyweight Jonathan Palata and precocious bantamweight talent Dennis McCann, along with several exciting professional debuts to be announced soon.

Tickets for the September 27th bill at the Royal Albert Hall will be available to purchase from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and www.royalalberthall.com on pre-sale sale this Wednesday (August 7) Wednesday & on general sale from 1pm this Friday (August 9).  Prices £40, £50, £75, £100 £150 – Ringside

LAS VEGAS (August 3, 2019) – World Boxing Council (WBC) female World super featherweight champion Eva Wahlstrom retained her title by fighting to a 10-round split draw last night with challenger Ronica “Queen” Jeffrey at Thomas and Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Wahlstrom vs. Jeffrey was the main event on another RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS series installment, which was streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports

RJJ Boxing Promotions offered free admission to reward its loyal Las Vegas fans and 5,400 turned out to watch the action.

Wahlstrom (22-1-2), fighting out of Finland, was coming off a loss by decision to undefeated Irish star Katie Taylor this past February at famed Madison Square Garden in New York City. The skilled Finn has been the WBC titlist since 2015 and this was her fifth successful title defense.

Jeffrey (17-1-1, 1 KO), a former IWBF world champion from Brooklyn, was riding a four-fight win streak going into last night’s fight against Wahlstrom.

Wahlstrom (L) and Jeffrey put on a good show in the main event

Wahlstrom and Jeffrey are both tactical, pure boxers who fought that way last night, going back and forth without either being hurt. It was an even fight that could have gone either way with judge Tim Cheatham scoring it a draw (95-95), Richard Ocasio slightly favored Walstrom (96-94), and Lisa Giampa inexplicitly had Jeffrey winning all 10 rounds (100-90).

In the co-featured event, former top 10 rated junior middleweight John “The Phenom” Vera (19-1, 11 KOs) moved up to middleweight, after losing for the first time as a pro last March in France to Michel Soro by way of a 12-round decision. Vera, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas, won a six-round decision against his Uzbek opponent, Ravshan Hudaynazarov (17-2, 13 KOs), the former WBA FEDALATIN welterweight champion.

John Vera (R) looked good in his return last night as a middleweight

Las Vegas-based super bantamweight Jamie “The Miracle” Mitchell (5-0-2, 3 KOs) and Virginian Britain Hart (3-3-2, 2 KOs) battled to a six-round majority draw.

Local favorite Trevor Covington won his professional debut, taking a four-round unanimous decision in the Fight of the Night against Los Angles super flyweight Ming Freeman (1-4-1), who had a point deducted for a low blow.

Official results below:

MAIN EVENT – WBC WORLD FEMALE SUPER FEATHRWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Eva Wahlstrom (22-1-2, 3 KOs), Champion, Helsinki, Finland
SD10 (96-94, 95-95, 90-100)
Ronica Jeffrey (17-1-1, 1 KO), Challenger, Brooklyn, NY
(Wahlstrom retained world title)

CO-FEATURE – MIDDLEWEIGHTS
John “The Phenom” Vera (19-1, 11 KOs), Fort Worth, TX
WDEC 6 (58-56, 58-56, 58-56)
Ravshan Hudaynazarov (17-2, 13 KOs), Las Vegas, NV by way of Uzbekistan

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS
Jamie Mitchell (5-0-2, 3 KOs), Las Vegas, NV
MD6 (589-56, 57-57, 57-57
Britain Hart (3-3-2, 2 KOs), Roanoke, VA

SUPER FLYWEIGHTS
Trevor Covington (1-0), Henderson, NV
WDEC4 (37-36, 37-36, 37-36)
Ming Freedom (1-4-1), Los Angeles, CA

INFORMATION:
Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass, www.thomasandmack.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @ThomasAndMack, @wahlstrom_eva
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @ThomasandMack, @eva_wahlstrom
Facebook: /KeithVeltre, /UFCFightPass, /Thomas&MackCenter, /EvaWahlstrom

DOORS: 16:30

BOXING STARTS: 16:30

4 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest
DYLAN EVANS 9st 7lbs v ALEKSANDRS BIRKENBERG 9st 8lbs
(Moston)                              (Latvia)

4 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest
THOMAS WHITTAKER HART 12st 11lbs 8oz v IVO KRASTEV 12st 7lbs 12oz
(Liverpool)                                                           (Bulgaria)

LIVE ON SKY SPORTS FACEBOOK

17:30 | 8 x 3 mins Super-Bantamweight contest
QAIS ASHFAQ 9st 3lbs v SEAN DAVIS 9st 5lbs
(Leeds)                              (Birmingham)

8 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest
MARTIN BAKOLE 18st 10lbs 6oz v YTALO PEREA 18st 4lbs 12oz
(DR Congo)                                        (Ecuador)

LIVE ON SKY SPORTS ARENA

19:05 | 10 x 3 mins WBA Continental Bantamweight Title 
SEAN McGOLDRICK 8st 5lbs 4oz v  THOMAS ESSOMBA 8st 5lbs 7oz
(Newport)                                             (Tyne & Wear)

10 x 3 mins English Middleweight Championship
JACK CULLEN 11st 4lbs 12oz v JOHN HARDING Jr 11st 5lbs 7oz
(Bolton)                                         (Brixton)

10 x 3 mins WBA Continental Super-Lightweight Championship
LEWIS RITSON 9st 13lbs 7oz v MAREK JEDRZEJEWSKI 9st 10lbs 10oz
(Forest Hall)                               (Poland)

8 x 3 mins Welterweight contest
ROBBIE DAVIES Jr 10st 5lbs 13oz v MICHAL DUFEK 10st 5lbs 6oz
(Liverpool)                                           (Czech Rep)

10 x 3 mins vacant WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Championship
ANTHONY FOWLER 11st 2lbs 8oz v BRIAN ROSE 11st 1lb 3oz
(Liverpool)                                          (Blackpool)

FLOATS

4 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest
JOHN DOCHERTY 12st 4lbs 2oz v DARRYL SHARP 12st 8lbs 6oz
(Montrose)                                        (Middleton)

4 x 3 mins Welterweight contest
NATHAN FARRELL  v     DYLAN DRAPER
(Manchester)                  (Braintree)

2 August 2019 – Manila, Philippines: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), returned to a packed Mall of Asia Arena in Manila for the biggest martial arts event in Philippine history with ONE: DAWN OF HEROES. Once again, the finest martial arts talent in the world came out to showcase their incredible skills. In the main event, Martin Nguyen retained his ONE Featherweight World Championship with a technical knockout victory over Koyomi Matsushima. In the co-main event, Rodtang Jitmuangnon captured the ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Championship with a unanimous decision victory over Jonathan Haggerty.

Visit the official ONE: DAWN OF HEROES photo gallery by clicking: https://bit.ly/onephotos

In the main event, Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Australia and Vietnam continued his reign over the featherweight division with a second-round technical knockout victory over Japanese challenger Koyomi “Moushigo” Matsushima to retain the ONE Featherweight World Championship. Matsushima put the pressure on Nguyen early in the opening round with his solid ground game. The champion was able to make the necessary adjustments in the second round, however, as he picked apart a tired Matsushima with a barrage of strikes to get the stoppage win and successfully defend his title for a third time. 

In the co-main event, Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon of Thailand dethroned English striking sensation Jonathan “The General” Haggerty via unanimous decision to become the new ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion. Haggerty utilized his length in the early going, using front kicks to keep the challenger at bay. Rodtang picked up steam in the succeeding rounds and managed to drop Haggerty twice. After five rounds of explosive action, it was Rodtang who walked away with the victory and the prestigious ONE World Title. 

In the ONE Lightweight World Grand Prix Semi-finals, Eddie “The Underground King” Alvarez of the United States recorded his first victory under the ONE banner with a rear naked choke of former ONE Lightweight World Champion Eduard “Landslide” Folayang of the Philippines. Folayang attacked Alvarez with a blitz of strikes to open the contest and a low kick brought “The Underground King” to the mat. Alvarez, however, was able to sweep Folayang to wind up in mount. From there, Alvarez took Folayang’s back, fished for the submission, and forced the tap.

In the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix Semi-finals, Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson of the United States outlasted Tatsumitsu “The Sweeper” Wada of Japan to take home a three-round unanimous decision. After a brief exchange on the feet in the first round, Wada was able to take Johnson to the mat and secure his back. Johnson however defended very well. Action continued in the second round with Johnson dominating the grappling exchanges. In the third and final round, Johnson appeared to have Wada figured out and took control of the bout to cruise to a unanimous decision victory.

ESPN+ (5 p.m. ET)

Michael Conlan 125.6 lbs vs. Diego Alberto Ruiz 124.8 lbs
(Conlan’s WBO Intercontinental and vacant WBA Intercontinental Featherweight titles – 10 Rounds)

  Chris Jenkins 146.4 lbs vs. Paddy Gallagher 147 lbs
(Jenkins’ British and vacant Commonwealth Welterweight titles  – 12 Rounds)

ESPN+ (3 p.m. ET)

           Luis Arias 161.5 lbs vs. Luke Keeler 161.1 lbs
(Middleweight – 10 Rounds)

Steve Collins Jr. 167.1 lbs vs. Padraig McCrory 167.1 lbs
(Super Middleweight – 8 Rounds)

    Sean McComb 142 lbs vs. Renald Garrido 143 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 8 Rounds)About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It reached 2 million subscribers in less than a year and offers fans thousands of live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.

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ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com. They are the industry-leading all-in-one digital sports platform, delivering a rich, personalized experience to tens of millions of fans every month.

Following a relationship that has spanned the whole professional career of Billy Joe Saunders, that has included World Titles in two weight divisions, Hall of Fame Promoter Frank Warren and Saunders have agreed terms for an amicable release from his promotional contract.

Frank Warren enjoyed a successful partnership with Billy Joe in which he guided him in an unblemished run of British, Commonwealth, European and World Championships at both Middle and Super Middleweight. The partnership saw many big fights at different career levels, which has included wins over John Ryder, Chris Eubank Jr, Andy Lee and David Lemieux.

Whilst holding the WBO World Middleweight Championship, Billy Joe signed contracts to unify the World Middleweight titles against Gennady Golovkin, which did not ultimately take place due to Golovkin not signing and returning the contract but pursuing the Canelo Alvarez fight.

An outstanding career best win against Lemieux in Canada where Saunders announced himself to North American Boxing fans, unfortunately was followed by problems outside of the ring, a period of injury and having to vacate his World Title, losing the momentum built after his win.

Following dialogue between Frank Warren, Billy Joe and his management company MTK over recent weeks, it was mutually agreed that after struggling to regain this collective momentum, and with certain fights not immediately available within the partnership, that it is in the interests of both parties to pursue their respective goals separately.

Frank Warren and all the team at Queensberry Promotions have enjoyed a great personal relationship with Billy Joe over the years and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

We are sure that Billy Joe can continue to demonstrate his always unquestionable talent and we look forward to seeing him achieve the remaining goals he has left in his career.

Frank Warren said “I’ve really enjoyed working with Billy Joe through his whole professional career and guiding him to become British, Commonwealth, European and a two Weight World Champion.

I’m personally very fond of Billy Joe and I wish him every success in the remainder of his career.”

Billy Joe Saunders said, “First of all, I just want to say a massive thank you to Frank for everything he has done for my career over the past decade.

Frank signed me after the 2008 Olympics and was with me every step of the way as I won the British, Commonwealth and European titles before becoming a world champion in two divisions.

It feels a little bittersweet and I’ll always be appreciative for everything Frank has done for me. We’ll stay close.”

Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions is happy to announce the signing of Russian middleweight Timur Kerefov to a promotional contract.

Kerefov (6-0, 4 KOs) was a heavily decorated amateur champion who won several important tournaments and 298 of his 310 unpaid fights. Designated a Master of Sports in Russia, he fought at the elite level internationally on the Russian National team for nearly a decade.

Kerefov, from Shalushka, Russia, has excellent hand and foot speed and the fast-twitch reflexes that only come from a lifetime in the sport. He punches with authority, especially with the left hand, to the head and body.

“I am excited about signing with Salita Promotions and taking my career to the next level,” said Kerefov. “I look forward to showing that I am the best 160 lb. fighter in the world.”

Promoter Salita, who has amassed a strong stable of Russian standouts in the last few years including, says Kerefov is going to fit right in. The plan, according to Salita, is to move the Russian southpaw quickly up the ranks.

“Timur is an extremely talented and skilled fighter,” said Salita. “In the near future, he will make a name for himself on the world stage and in the middleweight division.”

About Salita Promotions

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Lincoln, RI (Aug. 2, 2019) — Marqus Bates is abiding by the philosophy that you no longer have to beat the best in order to be the best, you should probably train with the best, too.

The red-hot welterweight from Taunton, MA, aims for his sixth consecutive win next Friday on Aug. 9 at Twin River Casino Hotel when he faces 33-fight vet Evincii Dixon (8-23-2, 3 KOs) of Lancaster, PA, in one of nine bouts on CES Boxing’s stacked fight card at the Event Center.

To prepare for what he expects to be his toughest challenge, Bates (7-2, 5 KOs) has challenged himself during this training camp with some of the best sparring in New England, trading blows with regional standouts Irvin Gonzalez and Toka Kahn along with North Carolina’s Damon Towns, all of whom are preparing for upcoming bouts. The 26-2 Kahn, a Providence, RI, actually faces Gonzalez Aug. 29 in Connecticut. The experience has been beneficial for Bates, who continues to look for ways to improve despite his recent hot streak.

“I felt like it was definitely time to step it up,” Bates said. “When you’re sparring with someone like Toka, you have no choice but to get better. His hand speed, power and smarts in the ring is amazing, so if you think you’re catching on to him, think again, because then he’s doing something else.

“It’s a constant learning experience. Irvin, he’s strong, smart and fast, and Damon has incredible hand speed. To be able to get in the ring with these three was a blessing. It’s not something I’ve been used to. They definitely keep me on my toes and pushed me to get better.”

Tickets for Aug. 9 begin at $47 and are available online at www.cesboxing.com or www.showclix.com. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET and the first fight begins at 7.

Bates expects his hard work to pay off next Friday when he faces the well-traveled Dixon, arguably his toughest opponent to date despite Dixon’s record. Bates doesn’t pay attention to the numbers, noting that Dixon has consistently faced the best the sport has to offer between 140 and 147 pounds and is coming off a big upset win over previously-unbeaten Philadelphia prospect Marcel Rivers in June, a fight in which Dixon sent his opponent to the canvas three times in the second round before the referee waved it off.

Like Bates, Dixon is recharged heading into this fight, reuniting with his original coach Anthony Key, who brought Dixon to New England in 2013 to face CES stablemates Nick DeLomba, Christian Lao and Jimmy Williams in consecutive bouts.

“His record doesn’t matched how good he is,” Bates said of Dixon. “From what little tape I’ve watched of him, he’s a great fighter. This is something I need. I need to be able to step up and take this to the next level. I take nothing from him, and I don’t underestimate him. I’m coming ready to fight.”

“I’m an animal now,” Dixon said.

The same could be said for Bates, who has turned a corner since his disputed loss to Travis Demko, winning his next five bouts, including three by knockout. He stopped Connecticut’s Jair Ramos in February and then handed Wilfredo Pagan of Massachusetts his first career loss via knockout. The sudden surge in power, he said, stems from his improved patience, which he lacked in earlier bouts.

“I don’t go in there looking for the knockout. I just go in there and fight and be patient and work with whatever I’m given,” he said. “If it comes, I’ll take it. Everything I do for preparation is done in the gym. Then I let it all go in the ring on fight night.”

For a fighter who one day hopes to headline at Twin River, Friday’s showdown with Dixon is the next logical step for Bates as he continues to make up for his lost time after turning pro at the age of 30. Having laid the foundation with a strong camp, the rest is in his hands come fight night.

“I still have a lot to show, a lot to learn, a lot to prove. I haven’t even scratched the surface yet,” he said. “There’s so much I’m still learning, so many tricks. I’m getting faster, stronger and smarter. This is just the beginning.”

Next Friday’s main event features reigning NBA Heavyweight World Champion Juiseppe Cusumano (18-2, 16 KOs) of Sicily in the quest to add another belt to his collection when he battles “The Gentle Giant” Steve Vukosa (11-1, 4 KOs) of nearby Quincy, MA, in an eight-round bout for the vacant WBC USNBC crown.

In the co-main event, WBC Youth World Lightweight Champion Jamaine Ortiz (11-0, 6 KOs) of Worcester, MA, puts his unbeaten record on the line in an eight-round showdown against French challenger Romain Couture (8-1-1, 4 KOs), who makes his United States debut.

The undercard features six undefeated prospects looking to keep their perfect records, including Pawtucket, RI, featherweight Ricky De Los Santos (8-0, 1 KO), who battles Reading, PA, vet and Dominican standout Yeuri Andujar (4-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round featured bout. Lightweight Michael Valentin (6-0, 1 KO) of Providence, RI, also steps up in his toughest test to date against Philadelphia’s Lonnie Jackson Jr. (4-1-1, 1 KO), in a six-round special attraction.

Also facing a tall order on the undercard, Big Six Boxing Academy super welterweights Victor Reynoso (4-0, 4 KOs) and Lamont Powell (4-0, 1 KO), both of Providence, put their identical records on the line in four-round featured bouts. Reynoso battles Canadian Kenny Chery (2-2, 1 KO), whom Powell faced in February, while Powell looks to build off his impressive win in April in a major step-up against Reading’s Ricardo Garcia (14-7-1, 9 KOs), a Dominican Republic native and veteran of 22 professional fights.

A potential showstopper between unbeaten super lightweight prospects Elijah Peixoto (1-0, 1 KO) of East Providence, RI, and 26-year-old “Slick Hands” Carlos Otero (2-0) of Tampa highlights the preliminary card. Peixoto debuted earlier this year in grand fashion with a knockout win over Carlos Galindo. Otero, a decorated amateur much like Peixoto, returns from a two-year layoff. Worcester, MA, welterweight Nicholas Briggs (4-0, 3 KOs), also unbeaten, returns to face Macon, GA, native Bryan Goldsby (5-13), a veteran of 18 professional bouts.

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

LOS ANGELES – Today, FOX Sports announces WBC Heavyweight ChampionDeontay Wilder joins former undisputed, three-time heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis and blow-by-blow announcer Kenny Albert to call FOX PBC FIGHT NIGHT: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA on Saturday, Aug. 3 (8:00 PM ET) live on FOX and streaming on the FOX Sports app. Veteran combat sports journalist Heidi Androl interviews fighters, while International Boxing Hall of Famers Jimmy Lennon Jr. and Larry Hazzard Sr. join the show as ring announcer and FOX Sports PBC rules expert / unofficial scorer, respectively. On FOX Deportes, blow-by-blow announcer Jessi Losada is joined analyst Jaime Motta to call the bouts in Spanish.

Leading up to the fights, undefeated former super middleweight champion David Benavidez joins International Boxing Hall of Famer Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini and host Chris Myers live in FOX Sports’ Los Angeles studios on Thursday, Aug. 1 (4:30 PM ET) for the one-hour FOX PBC PRESS CONFERENCE on FS1, FOX Deportes and the FOX Sports app. Androl presides over the press conference. The same desk crew works the FOX PBC WEIGH-IN SHOW on Friday, Aug. 2 (1:00 PM ET) on FS2 and the FOX Sports app. Lennon Jr. hosts the weigh-ins on stage and Androl interviews fighters onsite.

Saturday’s fight action begins at 8:00 PM ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app and is headlined by undefeated heavyweight Polish star Adam Kownacki (19-0, 15 KOs) taking on veteran former title challenger Chris Arreola (38-5-1, 33 KOs). Plus, unbeaten Interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne (23-0, 16 KOs) battles former world champion Jean Pascal (33-6-1, 20 KOs) in a 12-round Interim WBA World Light Heavyweight title bout. Super welterweights Curtis Stevens (30-6, 22 KOs) and Wale Omotoso (27-4, 21 KOs) open the show with a 10-round clash.

The evening wraps up with the FOX PBC POSTFIGHT SHOW: ADAM KOWNACKI VS. CHRIS ARREOLA at 10:00 PM ET on FS1 and the FOX Sports app, as Albert, Lewis, Wilder and Androl recap the fights and interview winners.

Leading up to the fights, PBC fighters offer unique, behind-the-scenes clips on the FOX PBC social pages. Follow @PBConFOX on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for all updates throughout the #PBConFOX fights Saturday.Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or athttp://FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.For more information, visit FOX Sports Press Pass.
FOX SPORTS PBC PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE

*All programs available on FOX Sports App and FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 **Delayed
 –FOX SPORTS– About FOX Sports 
FOX Sports is the umbrella entity representing FOX Corporation’s wide array of multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, the business has ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses and several licensing relationships. FOX Sports includes the sports arm of the FOX Network as well as FS1, FS2, FOX Soccer Plus and FOX Deportes. FOX Sports’ digital properties include http://FOXSports.com and the FOX Sports App, which provides live streaming video of FOX Sports content, instant scores, stats and alerts to iOS and Android devices. Additionally, FOX Sports and social broadcasting platform Caffeine jointly own Caffeine Studios, which creates exclusive eSports, sports and live entertainment content. Also included in FOX Sports’ portfolio are FOX’s interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network and BTN 2Go, as well as a licensing agreement that established the FOX Sports Radio Network.

New York, NY (August 2, 2019) – On Thursday night, DiBella Entertainment hosted a special edition of its Broadway Boxing Summer Series, titled “Night of the Contenders”, from the Monroeville Convention Center, in Monroeville, PA. The event was promoted by DiBella Entertainment, in association with Pinnacle Fighting Championships, and presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance. The action was streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports.

Returning to the ring for the first time since competing for “The Contender”, Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov, 167.6 lbs., of Brooklyn, NY, moved up to the super middleweight division to face Gabriel Pham, 167.6 lbs., of Atlantic City, NJ, in the main event. Khytrov turned in a tremendous performance, pressuring his way inside the tall 6’3″ frame of southpaw Pham for the entire fight. Continually backing Pham against the ropes, Khytrov pounded the body with stinging jabs and followed up with hooks to the head. Pham attempted to counter off of the ropes, but an undeterred Khytrov maintained control and focused on cutting off the ring. Needing to offset Khytrov’s aggression to find any success, Pham increased his work rate near the midway point, attempting uppercuts as the Ukrainian pressed forward, but was never able to shift the momentum. By round six, Pham was growing fatigued and Khytrov’s left hook to the body resulted in three knockdowns. The referee waved the contest over following the third trip to the canvas at the 2:38 mark. With the win, Khytrov, now 19-2 (16 KOs), seized the WBC USNBC super middleweight title. Pham’s record is now 11-2 (5 KOs). The heavy-handed Khytrov, co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., defeated both Morgan Fitch and Malcolm McAllister by knockout on “The Contender” series last year.

Also fighting in his post-Contender ring return, Eric “The Baby Faced Assassin” Walker, 154.2 lbs., of Plaquemine, LA, took on Jose Antonio “Bachata” Abreu, 155 lbs., of La Romana, Dominican Republic, in the co-featured bout. Walker and Abreu began the contest trading their jab-straight right combinations. Whenever he found an opening, Walker launched powerful overhand rights as well. In the third frame, Walker set up his looping right hands over the top with stiff jabs downstairs. Now in full control, Walker let Abreu walk to him with an attack while he countered off of the ropes with accuracy. In the fourth, Abreu injured his right hand during an exchange and, after issuing an eight-count, the referee stopped the bout due to the Dominican being unable to continue. The time of the stoppage was 1:28. The TKO victory upped Walker’s record to 19-2 (9 KOs), with Abreu dropping to 14-6 (8 KOs). While on “The Contender”, Walker defeated John Jackson and John Thompson before losing a hard-fought majority decision over five rounds to tournament champion Brandon Adams on May 22, 2018, in Los Angeles.

Ukrainian welterweight contender Ivan “The Volk” Golub, 148.6 lbs., of Brooklyn, NY, used pressure and a varied arsenal of punches to dominate a game Joaquim Carneiro, 150.4 lbs., of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., the southpaw Golub stalked Carneiro and consistently landed in combination, with jabs, straight lefts and right hooks to the midsection throughout the contest. To his credit, Carneiro fought back as best he could, attempting to work the body and trade shots with Golub, but never landed anything significant. In the fourth, Carneiro tried to counter Golub’s offense with haymaker overhand lefts. In round five, Golub shifted his focus downstairs and a sneaky right jab sent Carneiro to his knees for a knockdown. Once he arose, a few more lefts and rights to the ribs convinced the referee to halt the bout at the 1:52 mark. The victory improved Golub’s ledger to 17-1 (13 KOs), while Carneiro left the ring at 25-11 (23 KOs). In April, Golub captured the WBC USNBC welterweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision against Manuel Reyes. As an amateur, Golub accumulated a 270-32 record, while becoming a five-time Ukrainian National champion, and won bronze medals at the Junior World Championships in 2006 and at the World Championships in 2009. He also participated in the World Series of Boxing, winning all five of his bouts.

In his DiBella Entertainment debut, 20-year-old Puerto Rican junior welterweight prospect Victor Padilla, 139.4 lbs., ended a near two-year ring absence in devastating fashion, stopping Benjamin Borteye, 140.4 lbs., of Silver Spring, MD, inside the opening frame. The southpaw Padilla quickly stunned Borteye with his first jab-straight left then patiently cut off the ring until he had his foe trapped near a corner. Padilla then threw a right jab that decked Borteye. A follow-up barrage to the head and body forced a stoppage at the 1:12 mark to up Padilla’s record to 5-0 (5 KOs), while Borteye dropped to 4-8 (4 KOs). Now living in Berlin, NJ, Padilla was born in Vieques, Puerto Rico, and had a stellar amateur career, compiling a 90-7 record while becoming a three-time National champion. He is trained by Raul “Chino” Rivas and fights out of the same camp as IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Tevin Farmer.

Heavyweight prospect Mike Balogun, 233.6 lbs., of Upper Marlboro, MD, overcame a first-round knockdown in the toughest test of his career against Ed Fountain, 240.6 lbs., of St. Louis, MO, to earn a unanimous decision victory. After recovering from his trip to the canvas via a Fountain right hand, the southpaw Balogun found the proper distance to dictate the action with his jab and ring generalship. Over the second half, Balogun began to throw jabs to the body and come back upstairs with straight lefts to keep Fountain from closing the gap, in what was his first scheduled eight-rounder. Scorecards read 78-73, and 77-74 twice, all for Balogun. Now 14-0 (10 KOs), Balogun is a former college football standout who started for the Oklahoma Sooners before playing in the NFL for three years. Fountain’s record dipped to 12-6 (5KOs).

Local fan favorite Bill Hutchinson, 134.4 lbs., of Pittsburgh, PA, improved to 17-4-2 (6 KOs) with a third-round stoppage of Charlie Serrano, 127.6 lbs., of Tampa, FL, who fell to 16-5-2 (5 KOs).

Heavyweight Bob Weisen, 195.8 lbs., of Pittsburgh, PA, made his pro debut a successful one, winning a four-round split decision against Dennis Vance (1-1, 1 KO), 235 lbs., of Detroit, MI. Scorecards read 40-36 each way, and 39-37 Weisen.

LOS ANGELES, CA. (Aug. 1, 2019): Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy, has issued the following statement in response to the International Boxing Federation’s decision to strip middleweight world champion, Canelo Alvarez.

“We are extremely disappointed at the IBF for forcing the world’s best fighter to relinquish his world title. We have been in serious negotiations with Sergiy Derevyanchenko’s promoter. We offered his team an unprecedented amount of money for a fighter of his limited stature and limited popularity, but the truth is that I’m now certain they never had any intention of making a deal. But instead they wanted to force us to relinquish Canelo’s belt. This is an insult to boxing and more importantly an insult to the boxing fans of the world. This decision validates already existing concerns about the credibility of the IBF championship. Canelo inherited a mandatory challenger by defeating Daniel Jacobs, the man who beat Derevyanchenko, so to strip him of his title without giving him enough time to make the best fight possible is truly what is wrong with boxing, and I plan to aggressively consider all legal actions possible.”

LAS VEGAS (August 1, 2019) – All of the fighters made weight today for tomorrow night’s RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS® card, headlined by World Boxing Council (WBC) female World super featherweight champion Eva Wahlstrom defending title against challenger Ronica “Queen” Jeffrey, at the famed Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is offering free admission for this show, which will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. Fans may register online to receive their free tickets, minimum of eight per person, by going to: https://www.unlvtickets.com/eventInfo/spe/739/roy-jones-jr-boxing/.

RJJ Boxing co-founder and living legend Roy Jones, Jr. (center in picture below, photo by Manny “Mitts” Merullo) will host a meet-and-great for VIP ticket holders prior to the fights.

All fighter’ weights are below:

MAIN EVENT – WBC WORLD FEMALE SUPER FEATHRWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (10)*
(R) Eva Wahlstrom (22-1-1, 3 KOs), Champion, Helsinki, Finland 128.8 lbs.
(L) Ronica “Queen” Jeffrey (17-1, 1 KO), Challenger, Brooklyn, NY 127.2 lbs,

CO-FEATURE – MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)*
John “The Phenom” Vera (18-1, 11 KOs), Fort Worth, TX 157 lbs.
Ravshan Hudaynazarov (17-1, 13 KOs), Las Vegas, NV by way of Uzbekistan 156.2 lbs.

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS (6)*
Jamie “The Miracle” Mitchell (5-0-1, 3 KOs), Las Vegas, NV 120.8 lbs.
Britain Hart (3-3-1, 2 KOs), Roanoke, VA 118 lbs.

SUPER FLYWEIGHTS (4)*
Trevor Covington (pro debut), Henderson, NV 112.4 lbs.
Ming Freedom (1-3-1), Los Angeles, CA 113.4 lbs.

(all fights and fighters are subject to change)

*demotes streaming on UFC FIGHT PASS
.

INFORMATION:
Websites: http://www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass, www.thomasandmack.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @ThomasAndMack, @wahlstrom_eva
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @UFCFightPass, @KeithVeltre, @ThomasandMack, @eva_wahlstrom
Facebook: /KeithVeltre, /UFCFightPass, /Thomas&MackCenter, /EvaWahlstrom

BROOKLYN (August 1, 2019) – Unbeaten Polish star Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola went face to face at Thursday’s final press conference, two days before they meet in a heavyweight showdown headlining FOX PBC Fight Night this Saturday live on FOX and FOX Deportes from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The press conference also featured fighters competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT as unbeaten WBA interim light heavyweight champion “Sir” Marcus Browne and former champion Jean Pascal, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens and Wale Omotoso, all faced-off ahead of their respective matchups Saturday night.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

The fighters were joined on stage by former lineal heavyweight champion Michael Spinks. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from the Brooklyn Marriott:

ADAM KOWNACKI

“This is one of my dreams coming true. Since the amateurs I’ve wanted to fight at Barclays Center and on Saturday night I’m the main event. I couldn’t be more excited

“I’ve been pushed hard in training camp and I can’t wait to show everyone all of my work on Saturday. The key is going to be jabbing in and throwing my punches in bunches like I always do.

“This is a new experience for me being the headliner, but in the ring it doesn’t matter. It’s just two guys fighting each other. We both love to fight. I can’t wait to get it over with and punch him in the face.

“Chris Arreola is a warrior. You always know that when Chris fights, it’s a good fight. But I’m going to test how much he has left in the gas tank. Chris has been in there with three champions and when I take care of business on Saturday, I’ll be one step closer to being world champion.

“It’s truly a great feeling to have all this support from my fans here. These fans are trusting me to bring the title back to Brooklyn and to Poland.

“Barclays Center has been my boxing home. I can’t wait to get in the ring. This is a tough fight and I have to make sure I send the fans home happy.

“This definitely has Fight of the Year written all over it. Neither of us are afraid to let our hands go and no matter what happens, the fans are going to be winners on Saturday.”

CHRIS ARREOLA

“I understand that Adam is the favorite because he’s undefeated and fighting in his hometown. At the end of the day, none of that matters to me. I’m going to give it my all for this fight.

“I’m carefree right now. I have no stress. If I lose, I’m okay with walking way. But I’m not here to do that. I’m here to win.

“I know I have a tough opponent in front of me. I have my work cut out for me. But ‘The Nightmare’ is going to keep going.

“I went to Joe Goossen as my trainer because I knew it was time to make a change. I have to make this last run count. This is the best team I could imagine. Joe makes you work on your mistakes. I believe the winner of this fight is whoever takes advantage of the first mistake.

“I respect everybody outside of the ring, but once we’re in the ring, I’m not friends with anyone. We’ll shake hands after the final bell, but I’m here to put on a show. It’s lights, camera, action and time to shine.

“He’s a volume puncher. He just keeps coming and he’s smiling at you the whole time. At the end of the day, I’m going to put a frown on his face Saturday.

“My prediction is that the fans are going to get their money’s worth. You better record this one, because you’re going to watch it again and again. I’m going to come out with my hand raised.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“Being in training in Colorado really lets me get attuned to my game plan. It’s just waking up every day and working with that same mentality where I’m focused on nothing but the fight. It’s all about going in there and getting that win.

“I’m going to punish Pascal on Saturday. If the knockout is how he wants to go, I’ll be ready. I promise I’m going to beat him for 12 rounds.

“It feels great to be here defending my belt. I’ll be in a better position after this fight. I’m going to make a statement in this fight and put Pascal in his place.

“Pascal is a guy who doesn’t come to lay down, he comes to beat you. That’s what the sport is about. You have to fight guys of that stature if you’re not fighting champions.

“A win on Saturday puts me in contention to fight for a world title next. That’s my focus, but before that, it’s about Jean Pascal and taking care of him the right way.

“This is a great card for New York with me, Adam and Curtis all representing our home city. It’s great for us to be in this position together.”

JEAN PASCAL

“Marcus has been saying that he’s going to go in there and try to knock me out, but I’m no amateur. I know what his game plan is going to be. He’s going to run around the ring and try to hold. We all know he’s the best at running like a chicken.

“When I was Marcus’ age, I was already a world champion. He was watching me on TV when he was at the Olympics.

“How is he going to knock me out? I think without the cut that Badou Jack had in their fight, he would have knocked Marcus out.

“I’m ready. I’m a solid fighter. I’ve fought the best, so I don’t think Marcus will be able to knock me out.

“I’m too good all-around for Marcus. This is my chance to show that I still have a lot of gas left in the tank. I’m still good enough to fight at the very top level of the sport.”

CURTIS STEVENS

“This is my first time fighting at Barclays Center, and I’m going to give the fans a taste of what they’ve been missing.

“I decided that I’d go down to 154-pounds because my camp has a lot of the top 160-pound fighters so we were getting in each other’s way. There are a lot of opportunities for me in this weight class as well.

“No matter what has happened in my career, I have always come back. I’m mentally always ready to bounce back. I’ve had layoffs in my career, but I know that I’m going to get where I need to be.

“Nobody calls me out because they know I can punch. I’m too risky for the top fighters because they know there’s a chance they get knocked out.

“It’s incredible to have this opportunity to fight at Barclays Center for the first time. It’s going to be a good time for me and all the fans.”

WALE OMOTOSO

“I’m not worried about Stevens being at a new weight. I don’t think it’s going to affect him that much. On Saturday, we’re both going to do our best to get the win.

“He’s a big puncher who brawls. But I’m a big puncher too. He’s been there and fought everybody, but I’m going to show the world what I can do.

“I think this is going to be a toe-to-toe fight. There might be some feeling out, but as the fight goes on and we get into the middle rounds, it’s going to be fought in the middle of the ring.

“I’ve trained well for this fight and had sparring with lots of different fighters. The different styles that I’ve seen throughout camp will have me prepared for anything Stevens shows me on Saturday night.”

# # #

ABOUT KOWNACKI VS. ARREOLA
Kownacki vs. Arreola pits undefeated Polish star and Brooklyn-native Adam Kownacki against veteran former title challenger Chris “The Nightmare” Arreola for a heavyweight showdown that headlines FOX PBC Fight Night on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, August 3 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

The broadcast starts at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features unbeaten interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion “Sir” Marcus Browne battling former world champion Jean Pascal in a 12-round bout, plus Brooklyn’s Curtis Stevens makes his 154-pound debut against Wale Omotoso in a 10-round fight.

Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (August 1, 2019) – The Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame is happy to announce that all its living inductees will be present at the 7th Annual Induction Gala Weekend happening August 9th and 10th 2019 at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa in Las Vegas.

The 2019 Induction Class consists of Bernard Hopkins, Juan Manuel Marquez, “Terrible” Terry Norris, Joel Casamayor, Leroy Haley, Wayne McCullough, Hasim Rahman, Humberto “Chiquita” Gonzalez, Vinny “The Pazmanian Devil” Paz, Ronald “Winky” Wright and “School Boy” Bobby Chacon. Non-Boxer Participants Duane Ford, Dan Goossen, Dr. Flip Homansky, Floyd Mayweather Sr. and Marc Risman.

“It brings me great pleasure to know that all our living inductees will be present at this year’s Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Gala,” said CEO and NVBHOF President Michelle Corrales-Lewis. “This is going to be a fun weekend where fans of all ages will be able to hang out with some of boxing most recognized fighter’s, past and present. Proceeds from our events help support boxing programs in the state of Nevada, so I encourage everyone to get their tickets now, and be part of this great community.”

Tickets priced $95 (Ceremony only) $250, $350 (Dinner and Ceremony), and $500 (Access to all weekend events) for the weekend’s events and Induction Gala are on sale now. For more information please visit www.NVBHOF.com

For Credentials Please Apply HERE

New York, NY (August 1, 2019) DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing returns tonight with a special edition of the Summer Series, titled “Night of the Contenders”, from the Monroeville Convention Center, in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. The event will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, beginning at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT. Broadway Boxing: NIGHT OF THE CONTENDERS is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, in association with Pinnacle Fighting Championships, and is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Fighting for the first time since competing for “The Contender”, Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov (18-2, 15 KOs), of Brooklyn, New York, will headline the event against Gabriel Pham (11-1, 5 KOs), of Atlantic City, New Jersey, in an eight-round contest with the vacant WBC USNBC super middleweight title at stake. The heavy-handed Khytrov, co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., defeated both Morgan Fitch and Malcolm McAllister by knockout on “The Contender” series last year. Pham is riding a five-bout winning streak, including a unanimous decision victory against previously undefeated Jaba Khositashvill on June 20, in Atlantic City. Each fighter weighed in at 167.6 pounds.

In the co-featured bout, junior middleweight Eric “The Baby Faced Assassin” Walker (18-2, 8 KOs), of Plaquemine, Louisiana, will take on Jose Antonio “Bachata” Abreu (14-5, 8 KOs), of La Romana, Dominican Republic, in an eight-round bout. On “The Contender”, Walker defeated John Jackson and John Thompson before losing a hard-fought majority decision over five rounds to tournament champion Brandon Adams on May 22, 2018, in Los Angeles. In his last fight, Walker won an eight-round unanimous decision versus Michael Moore on November 9, 2018, at the Forum in Los Angeles, CA. Walker weighed in at 154.2 pounds and Abreu, 155 pounds.

The upset-minded Jose Antonio Abreu returns following an outstanding victory against hometown favorite Wesley Tucker in Toledo, Ohio, on July 6. The battle-tested veteran has faced numerous contenders and top prospects over his seven years as a professional, including Kerman Lejarraga, Euri Gonzalez and Madiyar Ashkeyev.

Welterweight contender Ivan “The Volk” Golub (16-1, 12 KOs), of Brooklyn, New York, will meet Joaquim Carneiro (25-10, 23 KOs), of Sao Paulo, Brazil, in an eight-round bout. Co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc., the 30-year-old Ukrainian southpaw is currently riding a three-bout winning streak. He last fought on April 10, earning a dominant 10-round unanimous decision against Manuel Alejandro Reyes at Sony Hall in New York City. As an amateur, Golub accumulated a 270-32 record, while becoming a five-time Ukrainian National champion, and won bronze medals at the Junior World Championships in 2006 and at the World Championships in 2009. He also participated in the World Series of Boxing, winning all five of his bouts. Golub tipped the scales at 148.6 pounds, while Carneiro came in at 150.4 pounds.

Puerto Rican junior welterweight prospect Victor Padilla (4-0, 4 KOs), will make his DiBella Entertainment debut tonight against Benjamin Borteye, of Silver Spring, Maryland, in a scheduled four-round bout. Now living in Berlin, NJ, Padilla was born in Vieques, Puerto Rico, and had a stellar amateur career, compiling a 90-7 record while becoming a three-time National champion. He is now trained by Raul “Chino” Rivas and fights out of the same camp as IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Tevin Farmer. Padilla weighed in at 139.4 pounds and Borteye, 140.4 pounds.

Undefeated heavyweight prospect Mike Balogun (13-0, 10 KOs), of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, faces St. Louis, MO, veteran Ed Fountain (12-5, 5 KOs) in what promises to be an exciting clash, scheduled for eight rounds. The athletic Balogun is a former college football standout who started for the Oklahoma Sooners before playing in the NFL for three years. The southpaw Balogun will be fighting for the third time this year, with knockout victories against Marquis Valentine and Danny Calhoun coming in February and April. Fountain is seeking to rebound from a hard-fought loss to undefeated contender Hemi Ahio on March 2, in Columbus, Ohio. Balogun weighed in at 233.6 pounds, and Fountain, 240.6 pounds.

Local fan favorite Bill Hutchinson (17-2-4, 8 KOs), 134.4 pounds, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, faces Charlie Serrano (16-4-2, 5 KOs), 127.6 pounds, of Tampa, Florida, in a scheduled eight-round lightweight attraction. The 30-year-old Hutchinson is currently on a seven-bout winning streak, which includes a stoppage victory against Justin Savi last August.

Heavyweight Bob Weisen, 195.8 pounds, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, will make his pro debut against Dennis Vance (1-0, 1 KO), 235 pounds, of Detroit, Michigan.

Tickets for tonight’s Broadway Boxing: NIGHT OF THE CONTENDERS, promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Pinnacle Fighting Championships, and presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance, are priced at $100, $50 and $25, and can be purchased online HERE. The Monroeville Convention Center is located at 209 Mall Plaza Blvd., Monroeville, PA 15146, just 12 miles east of Pittsburgh. Doors will open at 6:30 pm, with the first fight scheduled for 7:30 pm. For more information on the venue, please visit their website HERE.

Boston, MA. (August 1, 2019):

After a sold out debut event last month that saw 2,300 people pack Encore Boston Harbor’s Picasso Ballroom, Murphys Boxing is proud to announce an immediate return to the newly opened 2.6 billion dollar resort on Friday, August 23rd.

The stacked card will feature the stateside return of one of Murphys Boxing’s most popular fighters, Top 20 world ranked junior middleweight contender, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan (30-3, 21 KOs) and Top 10 world ranked, Abraham Nova (15-0, 11 KOs) who will defend his NABA Super Featherweight Championship.

O’Sullivan will take on hard hitting Argentinian veteran, Diego Marocchi (18-4-1, 14 KOs) in an 8 round showdown that promises fireworks between two fighters that don’t know how to take a step back.

‘Spike’, the handlebar mustached fighter from Cork, Ireland, has a massive following in Boston having fought over 10 times in the New England area, including his last fight this past St. Patrick’s Day when he stopped Khiary Gray in a bloody slugfest.

In the co-headliner, one of the hottest fighters in the super featherweight division, Murphys Boxing’s own, Abraham Nova will take on famed Mexican veteran, Miguel Beltran Jr. (33-7, 22 KOs) for Nova’s NABA Super Featherweight Championship in a 10 round bout.

Nova, the flashy young fighter known for his bleached blonde beard and elaborate ring entrances is currently ranked #7 in the world by the WBA and is closing in on a world title shot in the red hot division that features popular champions like Gervonta Davis, Tevin Farmer and Andrew Cancio.

The co-main event will see Murphys Boxing’s own Ecuadoran Olympian, Carlos Gongora (16-0, 12 KOs) in his toughest test yet in a 10 round middleweight bout against ‘The Mexican Windmill’, Alan Zavala (15-4, 13 KOs) that will see the winner move into bona fide prospect status.

The undercard will feature a who’s who of Boston area based fighters including:

Lynn, Massachusetts’ Khiary Todd (8-1, 6 KOs) who will face Florida based Brazilian, Alex Sandro Duarte (14-7-1, 11 KOs) in a 6 round junior middleweight bout.

Mansfield, Massachusetts’ James Perella (4-0, 3 KOs), who fought on the debut Encore Boston Harbor event this month. The amateur standout will return in a 4 round welterweight bout against an opponent to be named and it will be the young fighter’s 5th bout in just five months as a professional.

The card will be rounded out with 6 local fighters who will be making their pro debuts against each other when Stoneham, Massachusetts native, James Perkins takes on Boston’s Aaron Trecell Smith in a 4 round cruiserweight bout, Watertown, Massachusetts’ Greg Bono takes on Whitman, Massachusetts’ Brian Urday in a 4 round junior welterweight bout and Boston’s Jonathan Depina takes on an opponent to be named in a 4 round lightweight bout.

“People are still buzzing about our last event at Encore Boston Harbor.”, says Ken Casey, Murphys Boxing founder and promoter.

“It’s so exciting to be coming right back to Encore and on UFC Fight Pass with our big guns like Spike, Nova and Gongora all on the same card while the excitement is still in the air.”

“We were thrilled to see such success with our inaugural Murphys Boxing event,” says Robert DeSalvio, President of Encore Boston Harbor.

“We are so happy to bring these Las Vegas-style events to the Boston area and we’re glad to see the community responding so well. We plan to continue offering these can’t miss nights.”

Murphys Boxing presents O’Sullivan vs. Bonelli and Nova vs.Beltran for the NABA Super Featherweight Championship on Friday, August 23rd at Encore Boston Harbor (1 Broadway, Everett, MA., 02149). Doors open at 7pm. Tickets start at 50 dollars and are on sale now at www.murphysboxing.com

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Mark DeLuca, Charles Foster, Abraham Nova, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan and undefeated prospects like Niall Kennedy, Carlos Gongora, William Foster III and more.

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

ABOUT ENCORE BOSTON HARBOR

Encore Boston Harbor is a $2.6 billion Five Star global destination gaming resort featuring 671 hotel rooms with sweeping views of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor, an ultra-premium spa, specialty retail, 15 dining and lounge venues and a state-of-the-art ballroom and meeting spaces. It is the largest private, single-phase development in the history of the Commonwealth.

Situated on the waterfront along the Mystic River and connected to Boston Harbor, Encore Boston Harbor will open up the Everett shoreline to the public for the first time in more than a century. The resort has created a six-acre park along the water which will feature pedestrian and bicycle paths that provide access to the waterfront, an events lawn, picnic and public viewing areas. Ornate floral displays, public art, retail and dining experiences will overlook the Encore Harborwalk.

For more information visit: www.encorebostonharbor.com

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS

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

For more information visit: www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass

For credential requests to the August 23rd event or to speak with any of the fighters on our roster for coverage – drop us a line at info@murphysboxing.com and we will hook it up!
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Charlie Edwards will make the second defence of his WBC Flyweight World title against his Mandatory Challenger Julio Cesar Martinez at The O2 in London on Saturday August 31, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK.

Edwards ripped the WBC 112lbs crown from Cristofer Rosales on an emotional night at The O2 in December, outclassing the Nicaraguan with a masterful display to take a well-earned unanimous decision in his second World title attempt. 

He turned on the style as he successfully defended his World title for the first time against Spain’s Angel Moreno at the Copper Box Arena in March, winning every round against his former sparring partner in a dominant display. 

Martinez, hailing from Mexico City, landed his shot at the coveted green and gold belt by taking out highly-rated Welshman Andrew Selby in five rounds in their Final Eliminator bout earlier this year in March.

It was a first career loss for Selby, who was once regarded by many as one of the brightest prospects in the UK. A brutal left hook liver shot ended proceedings in the fifth session to set up a first World title shot for Martinez. 

Losing on his professional debut in October 2015, ‘El Rey’ has since won fourteen fights on the bounce, scoring eleven knockouts in that impressive run. Halting Selby means no opponent has gone more than six rounds with the 24-year-old since June 2017.

“He’s a very tough Mexican who can bang with both hands,” said Edwards. “His record shows that he’s a massive puncher and we saw that in his last fight against Andrew Selby. He got him out of there in the fifth round and was hurting him on a number of occasions. He’s coming to bring it and he’s going to try and rip that WBC title off me. This is his World Cup final.

“He’s going to put it all on the line. He’s going to be coming hard and fast from early to try and put me under pressure, but I believe my boxing skills and the experience that I’ve gained throughout my short pro career will see me through. I expect to have a punch perfect performance. I believe that he will bring out the very best in me. 

“Timing is everything, I believe this is my era. I have arrived at my destination at the right time and I’m loving the journey. This is another legacy fight for me, and I believe that I will build a great legacy. To fight your Mandatory Challenger on one of the biggest cards in British boxing this year is brilliant because it showcases my skills around the world.” 

“I can’t wait to challenge for the WBC Flyweight World title in London,” said Martinez. “I’ll be taking that famous green and gold belt back to Mexico with me. I have already knocked out one Brit and on August 31 I will make it two.”

Promoter Eddie Hearn said: “This is another great fight added to a brilliant card at The O2. We saw Martinez knock out Andrew Selby recently in his Final Eliminator and he is an aggressive, fearless fighter who will be coming to try and take Charlie’s belt. Charlie is now established as the best 112lb fighter in the World right now and I expect another brilliant performance from him at The O2. This will be a fast paced, explosive fight and there’s still plenty more to come on this card!”

Adam Smith, Head of Sky Sports Boxing, said: “Charlie Edwards has been an enthralling success story in British boxing and it’s fantastic to add his next WBC title defence to the Vasiliy Lomachenko-Luke Campbell bill.

“Charlie has grown as a fighter since claiming the WBC belt on that emotional night last December, but Julio Cesar Martinez is a real danger-man as shown in that win over Andrew Selby. 

“We also have Hughie Fury’s heavyweight clash against Alexander Povetkin on an action-packed evening, with more fights to be added before Luke Campbell’s epic World title battle with Lomachenko.”

BELFAST (Aug. 1, 2019) – The final press conference for Michael Conlan’s homecoming bout — Saturday evening at Falls Park against Diego Alberto Ruiz — was a relatively subdued affair compared to what will be a raucous, sold-out atmosphere when he steps into the ring.

Conlan (11-0, 6 KOs), one of the sport’s top featherweight contenders, will face his hardest test to date against Ruiz (21-2, 10 KOs). Conlan-Ruiz will headline the ESPN+ stream starting at 5 p.m ET. The undercard stream, which will begin at 3 p.m. ET, will feature the middleweight showdown between Luis Arias (18-1-1, 9 KOs) and Dublin native Luke Keeler (16-2-1, 5 KOs).

Two days before the big event, part of the annual Féile an Phobail summer festival, this is what everybody had to say.

Michael Conlan
“I’ve had a target on my back since the amateur days. Even when I came into the professional ranks, there were expectations on my shoulders. I know how to deal with the pressure.”

“This is obviously different and something bigger than I could have ever imagined, but I just plan on going in there and enjoying it. When I get into the ring, it’s all business.”

“Over the last six or seven months everything has clicked. I’ve been in training for this fight since April, and I’ve learned so much. I believe this is a coming out party for me and it’s the best Michael Conlan you’ll see.”

Diego Alberto Ruiz

“I know Michael Conlan very well and he’s a very quick and fast boxer. He’s had a fantastic amateur career, but we’ve come here to win this fight and that’s what we’ll do.”
Adam Booth (Conlan’s Trainer)

“I want to see the progression and want to see what Michael does in the gym when he’s out in the spotlight. It’s all about the evolution of him as a fighter, and this is an event to match it.”

“This event is extremely popular, and he’s fighting a guy who is better than anyone he’s boxed so far in his career. This is a special event, and my job is to ensure he does his job and that he performs how he’s supposed to perform.”

Jamie Conlan (MTK Global Professional Development Coordinator)

“Boxing is a major part of Belfast, especially West Belfast. It was always a safe haven for us as kids. Boxing is a savior for a lot of kids growing up, and the Feile is the same.

“It’s given the people of West Belfast something to look forward to in the summer, so to combine the two together is fantastic.”

Luis Arias

“I’ve done my homework on Keeler and I don’t think he’s ready. I like to back my things up with facts. I fought a world champion at 27. When he was 27, he was fighting bums. The experience will be a big factor.”

ESPN+, 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT

Michael Conlan vs. Diego Alberto Ruiz, 10 rounds, Conlan’s WBO Intercontinental and vacant WBA Intercontinental featherweight titles

Chris Jenkins vs. Paddy Gallagher, 12 rounds, Jenkins’ British and vacant Commonwealth welterweight titles

ESPN+, 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. ET

Luke Keeler vs. Luis Arias, 10 rounds, middleweight

Padraig McCrory vs. Steve Collins Jr., 8 rounds, super middleweight

Paddy Barnes vs. Joel Sanchez, 6 rounds, flyweight
For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtags #ConlanRuiz and #TheConlanRevolution to join the conversation on social media.

About ESPN+

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Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL games, exclusive UFC, Top Rank boxing and PFL fights and events, top domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie, and more), thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and other sports), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and can cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is available as an integrated part of the ESPN App (on mobile and connected devices) and ESPN.com. They are the industry-leading all-in-one digital sports platform, delivering a rich, personalized experience to tens of millions of fans every month.