NEW YORK (December 1, 2023) – Split-T Management’s undefeated junior welterweight Giovanni Marquez will be back in action TONIGHT as he takes on Joshua David Rivera at the Red Owl Boxing Arena in Marquez hometown of Houston.

Marquez is 7-0 with five knockouts. The 22 year-old has impressive wins over Nelson Morales (2-0) and Nicky Vittone (9-2-1) and is coming off a second round stoppage of Donte Strayhorn on October 14th in Rosenberg, Texas.

Rivera of Le Mesa, California is 8-3 with three knockouts. The 29 year-old Rivera is coming off a loss to Larry Fryers on April 27th.

The bout is part of a DAZN streamed card that begins at 8 PM ET.

Photo By Mikey Williams / Top Rank

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“If Michael Conlan loses, his career is over. But if he wins and wins well… It’s a funny old game, isn’t it? You lose: Bye-bye. You win: Wow! What’s ahead – Joe Cordina? Josh Warrington? There are massive fights ahead. We went to Dublin in May and everyone left the arena (after Katie Taylor lost) with their head in their hands and then Michael got beat by Lopez the following week and it was like Irish boxing was finished.

“Now (after Taylor won and if Conlan wins) I’m looking at it, thinking: ‘We might not just come to Belfast and Dublin next year, we might go to Limerick (with Paddy Donovan) or Cork’.

“Michael sells. He’s expected to beat Jordan Gill and he’s coming off a knockout defeat but we should have 7,000 in there on Saturday which is a big old crowd. You know he sells, you know the atmosphere will be fantastic and we have a lot of guys at 130lbs that he can fight.

“If he was to make a statement he will walk straight into a massive fight. If Conlan went to the City Ground in Nottingham (for a Leigh Wood rematch) he might bring 8-9,000. If he went to Cardiff (to fight IBF champion Cordina) he’d take 5-6,000 or Joe might come here for a big outdoor show for the World Title (possibly Croke Park).

“Michael has the benefit of being able to draw crowds wherever he goes and that will walk him into a big fight but if he loses it’s over. He’s got to look good, he can’t struggle and look like a faded fighter. It’s got to be a performance where everybody goes: ‘Wow!’ Then those other fights become very easy to make.”

Michael Conlan:

“There’s an awful lot of reasons why. I know I’ll get him out of there. He lacks something. he has quit in him. And that’s it.

“I’m not going back and saying this happened in sparring, this happened in sparring. Sparring is sparring. Things happen. 

“But if you wanted to take confidence from anything, you know, I definitely can. And I’ve seen an awful lot of things throughout that time and even in his performances since that time, I’ve seen an awful lot of things where you go ‘yeah ok, I understand’. ‘I know what I got to do.’

“So, going into Saturday night you can look back to the sparring all you want and I’m sure he probably does an awful lot but I’m just focused on the job and that’s going in there and getting the win on Saturday.”

Jordan Gill:

“I feel great. There’s no pressure on me at all. That’s the way I’m looking at this. This is a massive opportunity for me to put myself where I need to be. I’m just buzzing and ready to go. I’m feeling strong and I’m feeling great. Tomorrow on the scales I’m not going to look like a skeleton like I did at 126lbs. I should have moved up maybe 3 or 4 years ago. One fight that highlighted that I have no quite in me is the Guerfi fight. Whether I have to do that again we’ll find out. It’s going to be a great fight. When he boxed Leigh it was fight of the year. I’m expecting another one on Saturday. I’m really excited and ready to go. All of the pressure is on him. He’s the star of the show, I’m just the opponent.”

Tyrone McKenna:

“I think he’s feeling the nerves and the pressure of being involved in a big fight on this stage. Obviously I’m well used to it having been involved in big fights – Prograis, Jack Catterall. People like that. I’m well used to this. This is something I buzz off. This is a game to me – I love it. I love this fight week drama. It’s something I feed on – the buzz of Belfast City for this Belfast vs. Belfast fight. I think it’s been 40 years since the last big Belfast vs. Belfast fight. The buzz in the city is crazy. Everywhere I go – barber shops, down the street, the shopping centres. They’re talking about this fight. Experience is the key thing I have here. Lewis is unbeaten, 17-0, he’s had a great career so far but essentially he hasn’t really fought at any high level.”

Lewis Crocker:

“A win against Tyrone sets me up with some huge opportunities, especially heading into next year. I’ve got the platform with DAZN, a Belfast vs. Belfast of this magnitude as well hasn’t happened for years. I’m excited. Tyrone is a good fighter – tough as old boots. He’s durable as well and he’s been around. He has the experience too like he always says. I’m looking forward to putting on a show and finally getting an opportunity to show everyone what I can do.”

Caoimhin Agyarko:

“It’s been a dream to box back here in Belfast on a massive card. I used to go and watch fights at the SSE as a kid so to be fighting there in a massive fight is unbelievable for me. Troy says it’s a massive step-up for me, but at the time it was a massive step-up for him against Cheeseman as well. Everyone has that one fight where they have to step up to the plate. That’s going to be on Saturday night for Caoimhin Agyarko. This has been the best camp I’ve ever had. I’m looking forward to going out and putting on a punch-perfect performance. I believe I’m better in every department. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Troy has had a very tough career the last five years, he’s been in wars and got a lot of miles on the clock. He only fights one way. I’m prepared for the best Troy Williamson. It’s going to be fireworks.”

Troy Williamson:

“Thank you to Matchroom Boxing for giving me the opportunity, but you’ve made the wrong choice calling out my name to face Caoimhin. I’m coming on Saturday night to give it my all and get the win. I set a high pace. People underestimate my boxing IQ and ability but I can box, and you’re going to see that on Saturday night. Caoimhin hasn’t boxed at my level. He knows that, you know that and everyone here knows that. He keeps on saying that it’s a big step up for him, which it is. We’re going to see what he’s got, I’m going to take him to the well and we’re going to see if he can cope. I’ve trained really hard. I’m injury free for the first time in four or five years which is a massive confidence boost. I’m punching harder than ever. I’m stronger than ever and I’m coming to put on a show.”

Sean McComb:

“As many of us know, me and Sam were stablemates for around two years maybe. We’ve sparred hundreds of rounds and we know each other really well. I know what Sam does well and he knows what I do well. It’s going to be a game of who can stop who doing what they do best. I believe that I have a great boxing IQ. Judging from our spars – you’d have paid to watch them. I’ve shared a camp with everyone at this table I think. This is probably the best show that Belfast has ever seen, in terms of 50-50 fights, in terms of atmosphere on fight week, in terms of social media and everyone asking me and stopping me in the street. It’s really the best card Belfast has ever seen and I just can’t wait to be a part of it. Sam is trying to get his career back on track with big fights. All of his fights, even the ones where he’s lost, they’ve been very competitive. I’m trying to break through to the big scene with the big names and to get on more Matchroom cards.”

Sam Maxwell:

“I really appreciate you getting me back in there at the top level. I’ve prepared well and I’m looking forward to this fight. I know how good Sean is. Like he said, you’d pay to watch our spars. It that’s anything to go by it’s going to be a great fight. Whoever turns up on the day and get’s it right is going to win. I’m going to make sure that’s me, I’m going to bring my A game. It’s an important fight. My last fight was a big loss against Dalton but I feel like I held myself well in the fight. I know I’ve got the talent and the ability to still push on again and reach the top. There’s loads left in me and I’m looking forward to showing that.”

Cameron Vuong:

“I wanted to be active and that’s what I’ve done. Three fights in the space of two months, it’s unheard of. I’m very humble and grateful to be in this spot. Massive thank you to you and Frank for getting me this active. I love being under the lights, under that pressure. I feel like I was born to do this job. I just take it all in my stride. I’m looking to put on a massive performance to end the year. 

Gerard Hughes:

“This is a massive opportunity. I’ve trained really hard and I can’t wait to make a statement on Saturday night.”

Ruadhan Farrell:

“Thank you Eddie for the opportunity. I’m ready to showcase my talent. Are you ready son? I was born ready son. Let’s go, let’s have it.”

Fearghus Quinn:

“It’s going to be great. There’s a big crowd coming up from Belleek. I’m just glad to get the opportunity. I’m an all-action fighter and I plan to be in exciting fights. On Saturday night it will be no different – I can’t wait for it.”

Leli Buttigieg:

“I’m ready to go Eddie. I’ve been in the gym for a long time now waiting for this moment. I’m grateful to be out at the end of the year and get the ball rolling. It’s the right time for me to turn pro because I won everything as an amateur, I had no interest in going on to become a senior. I wanted to train with the pros, learn my trade in the professional game and work my way up.We’re a good team down at the iBox Gym, we all work hard. Al Smith is a good trainer, he’s been around a long time. I’m ready to go.”

LONG BEACH, CA (December 1, 2023) – CBN Promotions’ “New Blood” boxing series, scheduled for December 9, 2023, at Infinite Reality Studios in Long Beach, California, formerly known as Thunder Studios, will feature a 10-round main event bout between Brandon “Leon” Benitez (20-2, 8 KOs) of Queretaro, Mexico, vs. Rigoberto Hermosillo (14-4-1, 9 KOs) of Los Angeles, CA. On the line will be the WBO / NABO featherweight title.

Also on the card will be WBC super flyweight Interim world champion Adelaida “La Cobra” Ruiz (14-0-1) of Los Angeles, CA, squaring off against Mayela Perez (19-26-4, 10 KOs) of Saltillo, Mexico. In addition, super featherweight George “El Yuyu” Acosta (16-1, 3 KOs) of Whittier, CA, will battle Richard “El Castigo” Medina (15-1, 8 KOs) from San Antonio, TX, in an 8-round bout.

Televised fights will broadcast live in Spanish on FOX Deportes, and the entire card will stream live on, www.FightStars.Network?. In addition, fans will be able to see the fights tape delayed on Estrella TV.

Doors open at 5:00 pm PT with the first fight starting at 5:05 pm PT. Televised fights on FOX Deportes will start at 7:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, $150 (Plus applicable fees), are available for purchase now by calling 800-283-8699, by text at 702-591-1638, or online at www.cbnpromotions.com. Infinite Reality Studios is located at 20434 S Santa Fe Ave, Long Beach, CA 90810

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Bantamweight Mario Hernandez (10-4-1, 3 KOs) from Santa Ana, CA, will face Adrian Alvarado (8-1-1, 4 KOs) of Los Angeles, CA. (6-rounds).

Lightweight Adrian Corona (9-1-2, 2 KOs) of Rialto, CA, will battle Francisco Duque (2-3, 1 KO) from Nuevo Leon, Mexico. (6-rounds).?

Lightweight Anthony Cuba (6-0-2, 3 KOs), from Fontana, CA, will challenge Angel Barrera (4-3), from Chicago, IL. (6-Rounds)

Featherweight Lienard Sarcon (10-0, 4 KOs), from Davao City, Philippines, will battle Frank Gonzalez (12-4, 6 KOs) of Miami, FL. (8-rounds)

Super featherweight Mark Magsayo (24-2, 16 KOs) from Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines, will take on Isaac Avelar (17-6, 10 KOs) of Aguascalientes, Mexico. (8-rounds)

Opening the card will be super welterweight Nelson Guerrero (Pro Debut) from Coachella, CA, facing Arturo Herrera, of Killeen, TX. (0-1). (4-rounds).

This event is sponsored by Bud Light, HUSTLER Casino – LA’s only luxury Casino. Tequila Mandala – 100% Agave Azul, and Shoe Palace, Community comes first.

HOUSTON, TEXAS (NOVEMBER 30, 2023): International Superstar “King” Ryan Garcia (23-1, 19 KOs) and dangerous knockout artist Oscar “La Migraña” Duarte (26-1-1, 21 KOs) hosted a press conference ahead of their super lightweight fight that will now be for the WBA Gold Title. Golden Boy Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya and fighters who are participating in the Ryan Garcia vs. Oscar Duarte fight night were also on hand to give comments. The fight night, presented in association with Cancun Boxing, will take place at Toyota Center on Saturday, December 2 in Houston, Texas and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN as part of your subscription beginning at 7:00 p.m. CT / 5:00 p.m. PT. Doors to the Toyota Center open at 5:00 p.m. CT, and the first preliminary fight will begin at 5:00 p.m. CT.

Newly announced co-main event, WBA Lightweight International Champion and rising star Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield (15-0, 11 KOs) of Austin, Texas, will defend his title against Tijuana, Mexico’s Ricardo “Explosivo” Torres (17-7-3, 12 KOs) in a 10-round fight presented in association with Davies Entertainment. Also making his return is Shane Mosley Jr. (20-4, 11 KOs) who will measure up against San Bernardino’s Joshua Conley (17-5-1, 11 KOs) in a 10-round fight for the WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Title. Opening the DAZN card, knockout prospect Darius Fulghum (8-0, 8 KOs) will perform in front of his hometown Houston crowd in an eight-round super middleweight fight against Pachino “Chino” Hill (8-4-1, 6 KOs) of Davenport, Iowa. This fight will be for the WBA Super Middleweight Continental Title.

On the preliminary card in a four-round super bantamweight fight, Waianae, Hawaii’s Asa “Ace” Stevens (5-0, 2 KOs) will go toe-to-toe with Dominque Griffin (5-5-2, 2 KOs) of Irving, Texas. Former Mexican Olympian and bantamweight prospect Gael “El Terror” Cabrera (2-0, 1 KO) of Sonora, Mexico, will make his return in a four-round fight against Las Vegas, Nevada’s Alejandro Dominguez (2-0, 1 KO). The undefeated Sean Garcia (5-0, 2 KOs) of Victorville, California will participate in a four-round fight against Joseph Johnson (3-1-1, 0 KOs) of San Antonio, Texas. Opening fight night with a four-round super lightweight fight, Cape Coral, Florida’s Danilo Diez will make his pro-debut against Jose Valenzuela of Puebla, Mexico (2-10, 1 KO).

Here is what some of today’s participants had to say. You can rewatch the press conference here.
RYAN GARCIA, INTERNATIONAL BOXING STAR AND SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CONTENDER:

“I put everything into this fight. You know, for the first time, I’m extremely committed in a long time. You know 2021 was one of the years that kind of broke me. 2022, you know a big change in me, and 2023 opened my eyes. I’m about to come back for everything, I’m just laser-focused and that’s where my confidence comes from.”
OSCAR DUARTE, SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CONTENDER:

“First of all, good afternoon, everyone. I’m very happy, very content, to be here. I’m enjoying every moment. This was a dream and it is now a reality. And this Saturday, you’ll see my best version. I have a great team, and this Saturday, I’ll be winning.”
FLOYD SCHOFIELD, WBA LIGHTWEIGHT INTERNATIONAL TITLEHOLDER:

“Hello everybody, I’m just super excited that I get this opportunity. I would like to give a big thank you to Golden Boy, Cameron Davies, and my dad. Without them, I wouldn’t be here. I feel like Saturday is just a stepping stone to getting my name out there and put the whole 135 division on notice that I’m here to stay. On Saturday, you can expect some fireworks and I will give you all a great show. Thank you!”
OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:

“This fight card is overflowing with top talent that we have personally scouted and have been carefully building to be the next generation of world championship stars. You won’t want to miss this!”
BERNARD HOPKINS, PARTNER OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:

“This is the moment, as we close 2023 and move to 2024, for our fighters to prove themselves to become the top dog. This is their chance to prove they can one day be the main event.”

#

Garcia vs. Duarte is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cancun Boxing.

Tickets for Garcia vs. Duarte are on sale and are priced at $500, $350, $250, $150, $100 and $50 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at ToyotaCenter.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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

Philadelphia (November 30, 2023) –- Due to last minute unforeseen circumstances, Friday night’s R and B Promotions card featuring former world champion Tevin Farmer vs Patrick Okine is POSTPONED.

Ticket buyers may be refunded at point of purchase.

A new date will be announced shortly.

Heavyweight Nathan Gorman would relish a showdown with David Adeleye, as he makes his return live and free-to-air on Channel 5 tomorrow night.

The 27-year-old makes his comeback after over a year out of the ring, on the Wasserman Boxing show at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, in Bolton, live and free-to-air from 10pm.

Brought to fight fans in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum, Gorman takes on the confident Ukrainian Bohdan Myronets, who is fresh from an upset victory over Kash Ali in the summer.

Gorman returns to the ring for the first time since his three-round shoot-out for the British heavyweight title against Fabio Wardley last year, and says a statement victory on Friday night should put him back in title contention.

And the cousin of Tyson Fury, says a clash with London’s David Adeleye, who was stopped by Wardely in Saudi Arabia recently, is a perfect fight to make next.

BIG FIGHT ODDS WITH LADBROKES
Gorman 1/4
Myronets 3/1
Draw 16/1
“I’m not the type of person to call other fighters out but Adeleye was calling me out and never left me alone.” Gorman told Wasserman Boxing.

“We’ve both lost fights for the British title to the same opponent, so why can’t we fight each other?

“How about a British title eliminator or a Commonwealth title fight?  Let’s get it on in February.  I think I beat him convincingly.  For three or four rounds he would be game but then I would take over.  He’s a good fighter, but very, very beatable.”

He added: “Myronets is a big test.  He might be looking at me and thinking that, mentally, I’m not right and he’s coming off that win over Kash Ali, which he would convincingly in my opinion.  He is no stranger to coming over here and causing an upset.  But he needs to know that I’m not Kash Ali.”

Roman Fury has been forced to withdraw from Friday’s show through illness.

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS
First bell scheduled for 1730

4 rounds Featherweight contest
Immad Naseeb (weighing in tomorrow)
Jake Pollard (weighing in tomorrow)

6 rounds Bantamweight contest
Samir Atab (weighing in tomorrow)
Nabil Ahmed (weighing in tomorrow)

4 rounds Featherweight contest
Adbul Khan 130lbs
Eddy Lopez 130.8lbs

6 rounds Super Featherweight contest
Isaac Lowe 127.4lbs
Jonatas Rodgrigo 130.4lbs

4 rounds Lightweight contest
Nelson Birchall 129.6lbs
Eliecer Quezada 130.9lbs

6 rounds Featherweight contest
Codie Smith 129.2lbs
Darryl Tapfuma 128.1lbs

8 rounds Welterweight contest
James Moorcroft 147.6lbs
Mathew Rennie 147.6lbs

8 rounds Heavyweight contest
Nathan Gorman 296.3lbs
Bohdan Myronets 217.4lbs

EBU flyweight title
10 x 2 minute rounds
Chloe Watson 111.6lbs
Justine Lallemand 110.6lbs

6 rounds Super Welterweight contest
Dan Toward 154.5lbs
Fabrizio Rubino 163.3lbs

The EBU European Lightweight Championship 12 x 3 Minute Rounds
Gavin Gwynne 134.4lbs
Emiliano Marsili 134.3lbs

The WBC International Silver Lightweight Championship 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Sam Noakes 134.6lbs
Carlos Perez 133.6lbs

The WBC International Featherweight Championship 10 x 2 Minute Rounds
Raven Chapman 125.1lbs
Lucie Sedlackova 125.2lbs

The WBO European Super-Bantamweight Championship 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Brad Strand 121.1lbs
Joshua John 121.6lbs

8 x 3 Minute Rounds International Cruiserweight Contest
Oronzo Biradi 197lbs
Israel Duffus 200lbs 7oz

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Heavyweight Contest
Moses Itauma 242.5lbs
Michal Boloz 223lbs

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Featherweight Contest
Royston Barney-Smith 132.9lbs
Maicol Velazco 132.3lbs

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Featherweight Contest
Umar Khan 126.9lbs
Yin Caicedo 124.8lbs

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Welterweight Contest
Sonny Liston Ali 150.8lbs
Fernando Mosquera 147lbs

4 x 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Welterweight Contest
Joel Kodua 151.3lbs
Dario Barosa To weigh-in Tomorrow

LIVERPOOL, UK (November 30, 2023) – Karriss Artingstall will face Lila dos Santos Furtado on the undercard of the IBF World Welterweight Title clash between Natasha Jonas and Mikaela Mayer on January 20th at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and on ESPN+ in the USA.

Artingstall (5-0, 1 KO) is back in business following a destructive second-round KO win over Vanessa Bradford on October 21st at York Hall. The former WBA World Super Featherweight Title challenger had never been stopped before sharing a ring with Artingstall, who made light work of the Canadian, who had previously gone the distance with Alycia Baumgardner and Hyun Mi Choi.

“Of course, I was happy with my performance. I did something no one else managed to do,” said Artingstall. “I always come to hurt my opponents, to get the win is the most important thing, but to hurt my opponent and to make them quit, there’s no better feeling.”

The 2020 Olympic bronze medallist will be aiming to continue the successful start to her professional career by securing a statement win against the Brazilian dos Santos Furtado (9-1, 1 KO), who returns to the UK following a WBC International Title fight with Raven Chapman earlier this year.

“I think I’ve had a good start to my journey as a professional fighter,” said Artingstall. “I mean, it could be better as I’d like a belt to my name which is definitely the focus for 2024. Next year, I’d like to cement my place at the top of the division and challenge for those world titles.”

Amanda Serrano currently holds all the belts at 126 lbs, and while Artingstall is focused on working her way into title contention, the 29-year-old has also been linked to fights with domestic rival Raven Chapman and Australia’s Skye Nicolson, who Artingstall beat in the 2020 Olympic quarterfinals to claim bronze.

“I’ve mentioned previously who I’d like to fight as I believe it would be great for the fans,” said the 29-year-old southpaw. “But for now, I’m just interested in fighting whoever is going to improve my world ranking.”

Two-weight world champion Natasha Jonas defends her IBF World Welterweight Title against former unified world champion Mikaela Mayer in a landmark night for women’s boxing as two of the sport’s biggest stars meet in the centre of the ring on Saturday, January 20th at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and ESPN+ in the USA.

Fans can also look forward to the British and Commonwealth Super Middleweight Title showdown between Jack Cullen and Zak Chelli, who meet in a repeat of their all-action 2020 contest that ended in a draw.

The event is presented in association with official partners Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Integritas Property Group.

Tickets are available via BOXXER.com

MIAMI, FL (Nov. 29, 2023)— Ahead of Saturday’s action-packed People’s Championship boxing card at the Casino Miami Jai Alai, the world’s greatest promoter Don King addressed assembled media alongside the athletes from the highly anticipated card.

“We’ve got five spectacular and action-packed title fights ready for our boxing fans of South Florida,” said King. “And since we lost one title fight, we’ve set a holiday special price of $25 for this fantastic evening. It’s the People’s Championship.” 

WBA Continental America’s Middleweight Champion Ian Green (17-2, 11 KOs), who has shown his talents at Casino Miami in the past, will defend his title against Vaughn Alexander (18-7-1, 11 KOs) of St. Louis, Mo. Tre’Sean Wiggins (15-5-3, 8 KOs) of Newburgh, N.Y., will defend his WBA NABA Welterweight Championship against Chris Howard (18-2-1, 8 KOs) of Cincinnati, Ohio. The vacant WBA International Lightweight title bout will be up for grabs as Antonio Perez (8-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, Pa., will take on Las Vegas’ Haskell Rhodes (29-5-1, 14 KOs). The WBA NABA Middleweight Championship will be decided when Alex Castro (13-1, 11 KOs) of Tulua, Colombia challenges Harry K. Cruz (14-3, 11 KOs) of Bronx, N.Y., via Puerto Rico. The fifth title fight will see the vacant WBC Youth Intercontinental Super Lightweight championship on the line as Fort Lauderdale’s DeVon Williams (3-0, 3 KOs) looks for the belt against the savvy Nelson Morales from Scranton, Pa., via the Dominican Republic. 

One undercard fight rounds out the card as an eight-round bantamweight attraction features Lawrence Newton (15-0, 7 KOs) of Boynton Beach, Fla., taking on Jonathan Smith (8-2, 6 KOs) from South Bend, Ind.  

Tickets, priced from $25, are on sale and can be purchased at www.playcasinomiami.com for the Saturday night card. Ringside tables are $1,500. Side floor seats are $50, floor ringside are $100 and ringside seats are $300.  

The People’s Championship night of boxing also will be available on all Don King Productions social media platforms Plus DonKing.com, FITE.TV AND ITUBE247.com FOR FREE. 

?Doors will open at 6 p.m., and the action will begin at 7 p.m.

DON KING:

“I always make it clear that this is for the people, and that is what it is all about. On Saturday night we are going to have a sensational night and give the people what they want. I am very happy with the slate of fights we have lined up, which should deliver an action-packed card.

“On Saturday we are putting the best against the best. All I can do as a promoter is put the platform there. The fighter then needs to perform to become the people’s champion. I believe we will give the people what they deserve, which is a spectacular show.

“Ian Green is a tremendous fighter who has fought through trials and tribulations. I believe his matchup against Vaughn Alexander will steal the show.”

Ian Green vs. Vaughn Alexander

WBA Continental USA Middleweight Championship

IAN GREEN:

“First and foremost, I want to thank God for this opportunity. I want to thank Don King for this platform. There is not much to say, all the hard work has been done and I am prepared for this. I can’t wait to perform. I want to prove I’m not just an average middleweight, I want to prove that I am the best middleweight in the world.

“I’m not sleeping on Vaughn; I know he is a great fighter. May the best man win. See you Saturday.”

VAUGHN ALEXANDER:

“I’m grateful to be back in this position. I guess you could say a few years ago I wasn’t ready, but now it’s a different situation. I’m a fully grown man. I’ve got kids, a wife so I’m all the way together. I’m not here to downplay anything Ian has done, but Saturday night Ian about to get that ass tapped. Ian ain’t ever been in there with no one like me. I’ve watched his fights. No disrespect to anyone because take a lot to get in there and put your life on the line. Everyone is fighting for different things, and I know I’m a in a position where I’m only a couple of fights from fighting for a world title.

“Saturday it’s going to be a helluva night. I must put the middleweight division on notice. They know who I am and what I’m all about. It’s no secret. I’m coming and they know however long it lasts, I’m going to be there.

“This isn’t a fight about what Ian will do. Ian is just another fighter like anyone else. And Ian doesn’t want to win this fight as bad as I do.”

Tre’Sean Wiggins vs. Chris Howard

WBA NABA Welterweight Championship

TRE’SEAN WIGGINS:

“I’m ready and excited. I’ve put in the hard work and trained so hard. It’s been about 10 months since I’ve been in the ring so I’m looking forward to getting back in there and showing you all what I got. I don’t know much about my opponent, but I know he’s tough, so I’ll be ready.”

CHRIS HOWARD:

“It’s a shame Adrien [Broner] got injured and had to pull out of the fight, and it bothered me when first heard it because that was a big opportunity for me. Adrien and I have a history together. We’ve probably sparred over 500 rounds together through camps. 

“[My coach] Mike Stafford recently passed and it’s very sad we lost such a great man in boxing. That guy was a good dude. He let me into his house when I had some tough times struggling with addiction. So I’m just blessed and grateful for everything.

“I like talking and being up here in the spotlight. Come on out Saturday night and I’m going to put on my best performance.”

Antonio Perez vs. Haskell Rhodes

WBC Vacant International Lightweight Championship

ANTONIO PEREZ:

“I would like to say thank you Don King for letting me perform on this platform. Thank you to my coaches. I’ve been wanting to fight at 135lbs for a while now, so I feel good that I got this opportunity. I want to say thank you to my new opponent for taking this fight. My last opponent [Antonio Williams] had his chance already two times, so I’m fully focused on my new task. Let’s have a good night on Saturday.

“I don’t let anyone throw me off my game and I am always focused. Camp went amazing and it was a long three months. I had to sacrifice a lot, especially with Thanksgiving passing by. This is just another day in the field of boxing.”

HASKELL RHODES:

“I’m just here to show up and show I’m a big dog too, so come Saturday night let’s make it happen.

“I haven’t seen much from my opponent. He’s youthful, energetic, athletic just what you’d expect from a 21-year-old.

“I’ve lived and trained my whole fight career in Las Vegas. I’ve trained with a lot of them. I’ve sparred everyone from Pacquiao to Floyd Mayweather.”

Alex Castro vs. Harry K. Cruz

WBA NABA Middleweight Championship

ALEX CASTRO:

“Thank you for being here. I hope everyone likes what they have been seeing this past year. This Saturday you will see another level and a preview of what to expect next year. I will do my best on Saturday to bring the belt home to Tulua.”

De Von Williams vs. Nelson Morales

WBC Vacant Youth International Super Lightweight Championship

DE VON WILLLIAMS:

“Training camp was great; all the hard work is done and Saturday night I’m going to take care of this easy work.

“I’m just ready to fight. I want to get in there and showcase my skills. I feel like I have an edge over any of my opponents. When I get in there, I will feel him out in the first round and see what he got then go to work on him.”

Michael Conlan and Jordan Gill are in for a big fight this Saturday at the SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Both will step into the ring to compete for the international super featherweight belt in the night’s main event and each has a lot on the line. 

These are two fighters coming off losses who need to win to remain among the elite in the division and challenge for the big fights at 130 pounds. 

Conlan, with a great amateur past and known for his aggressive boxing style and big fights, is coming off a knockout loss to Luis Alberto “Venado” Lopez in a headlining bout, so he needs to get back on the winning track if he wants to get another such opportunity in the future. 

Gill, on the other hand, is coming off a tough loss to Spain’s Kiko Martinez and after a year away from the ring feels ready to return and make a big splash in his comeback. 

Conlan’s record is 18 fights won, 2 lost and 9 knockouts. In the case of Gill, he has 27 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw and 8 defeats by stoppage.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (Nov. 29, 2023) — Puerto Rican junior middleweight contender Xander Zayas hopes to close the year on an emphatic note.

Zayas will take on Spain’s Jorge Fortea in a 10-round battleonSaturday, Dec. 9 at Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines, Florida. Zayas-Fortea will serve as the co-feature to the WBO featherweight world title showdown between reigning champ Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez and unbeaten Mexican contender Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza. 

Ramirez-Espinoza and Zayas-Fortea will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Zanfer Promotions, tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com.
 
Zayas (17-0, 11 KOs) signed with Top Rank at 16 and has been on the path to superstardom ever since his pro debut in October 2019. In his fifth year as a pro, he is already inching closer to a title shot in the competitive 154-pound division. He notched an eight-round unanimous decision over Ronald Cruz during Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend in June and a fifth-round TKO against the hard-hitting Roberto Valenzuela Jr. in September. Fortea (24-3-1, 9 KOs), a 13-year pro from Spain, is riding a three-bout winning streak.

Following a recent training session, this is what Zayas had to say:

“We are counting down the days to fight night! I can’t wait for the bell to ring on December 9 in South Florida. I dedicate this fight all my Boricuas from the ‘Island of Enchantment’ and the ‘Puerto Rican Diaspora’ who I know will tune in to my fight that night on ESPN.”
 
“I am determined to close the year with a bang and to continue positioning myself as one of the main contenders at junior middleweight. In the new year, I’m aiming to continuing my climb up the ranks step by step. That is why I push myself to give my all every day in the gym. You will see a better version of me every time I fight.”
 
“I am grateful for the support of the fans. I am also very happy to share the card with a great friend whom I respect a lot like “El Tren” from Cuba, Robeisy Ramírez. We are already close to a sold out venue, and we are ready to bring joy to our people. We’re coming to put on a great Latin party between Cubans and Puerto Ricans.”

Chloe Watson and Justine Lallemand had to be pulled apart when they faced-off at today’s press conference, ahead of their title clash live and free-to-air on Channel 5.

The flyweight foes collide on Friday night for the vacant European crown, with the action from the Toughsheet Community Stadium in Bolton, live from 10pm.

Delivered in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment, the latest hard-hitting Wasserman Boxing show also includes the heavyweight return of Nathan Gorman, as well as the professional debut of 10 times national amateur champion Dan Toward and the next outing of featherweight star-in-the-making Codie Smith.

But it was Watson and Lallemand who caused the biggest stir at the press conference in Bolton today, with the pair needing to be separated after an intense stare-down, that was fuelled by the exchange of big pre-fight predictions.

Justine Lallemand, who challenged for the Euro title last year, said: “I am here for the win and I will win inside the distance – I am going for the knockout.

“She is a good fighter but she has never seen a fighter like me before!”

Chloe Watson, who is coached by Ricky Hatton, replied: “We will see on Friday night.

“I’ve had a lot of good fights already as a pro, and a lot of good fights as an amateur and so I believe she has never seen anyone like Chloe Watson.

“I am feeling the strongest and the fittest I have ever felt for a fight.  This will be a night to remember.”

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman Boxing, said: “Chloe is in against a very, very tough opponent, but she can become the first British female to win the European flyweight title on Friday night, live and free on Channel 5.

“The female side of the sport is growing and growing and growing, and this is just the beginning for Chloe.

“Katie Taylor remains the flag bearer but you can’t pick another champion, challenger or prospect in female boxing who has the number of viewing figures Chloe has had at this stage of her career.

“We guided Cecilia Brækhus to winning all of the world titles and we feel we can do the same with the pride of Birkenhead, Chloe Watson.”

Roman Fury has been forced to withdraw from Friday’s show through illness.

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – November 29, 2023 — Rising junior middleweight Vito Mielnicki Jr. will look to thrill his hometown crowd on Friday, December 29^TH, as it was announced today that he has been added to the BRICK CITY FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. GH3 Promotions and Prudential Center have partnered to launch a multi event boxing series, BRICK CITY FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS, slated to continue in 2024. The launch of this exciting boxing series will present an evening filled with the best “the sweet science” has to offer.

Mielnicki of Roseland, New Jersey has a record of 16-1 with 11 knockouts, most recently he knocked out Alexis Salazar just 2:27 into their scheduled 10-round junior middleweight match on the David Benavidez-Demetrius Andrade undercard. Mielnicki will take on Salim Larbi in a 10-round bout for the debut of BRICK CITY FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS on December 29^th.

“I am so excited to be fighting at Prudential Center on December 29^th for the launch of BRICK CITY FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS. I would like to thank Al Haymon and Premier Boxing Champions for allowing me to fight in front of my hometown fans. It is always special to have my friends and family at my fights, and December 29th will be no different,” said Mielnicki.

“Prudential Center is extremely proud to partner with GH3 Promotions to add to the rich history of boxing in New Jersey for this first of a multi-event boxing series, BRICK CITY FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “As The Rock continues to serve as New Jersey’s Town Hall for sports and entertainment, we are very confident this event series will give fighters, not only locally but from all over the world, the platform to enhance their boxing careers. We are thrilled with the addition of New Jersey’s own Vito Mielnicki Jr. as the main event to this exciting card and look forward to this historic launch of BRICK CITY FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS.”

An accomplished amateur, Mielnicki turned professional at the age of 17 and now the WBA Continental Americas Super Welterweight Champion and WBC World Youth champion is currently ranked eight by the WBA. Mielnicki has won his first eight fights and is currently riding an eight-fight winning streak that is highlighted by wins over Nicholas DeLomba (16-3), Omar Rosales (9-1-1), Jose Sanchez Charles (20-3-1) and a one-round destruction over tough Alexis Salazar (25-5) this past Saturday night at The Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

Larbi of Cambrai, France is 22-12-3 with eight knockouts. The 36-year-old Larbi has wins over Mohamad El Maghnouji (2-0), Davit Makaradze (16-4), Patrice Sou Toke (17-2). In his last bout, Larbi went 10-rounds with world ranked middleweight Thomas LaManna before dropping a decision on March 11 in Orlando, Florida.

BRICK CITY FRIDAY NIGHT FIGHTS is proudly partnering with the Greater Newark Convention & Visitor’s Bureau and Caribe Royale Orlando, and will feature world ranked fighters, from New Jersey and the rest of the world, in competitive matchups throughout the entire card.

Scheduled to appear in a ten-round bout will be Newark’s own Michael Anderson. Anderson (23-3-1, 17 KOs) has wins over Dashon Johnson (11-2-3), DeMarcus Rogers (14-3-1) and a third-round stoppage over Marklin Bailey. Anderson will take on Eudy Bernardo (25-6, 18 KOs) of Elias Pina, Dominican Republic.

Seeing action in a ten-round bout will be former world title challenger and current WBA number-three ranked middleweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna taking on Nicolas Hernandez (27-7-3, 12 KOs) of Reading, PA.

LaManna (36-5-1, 15 KOs) of Millville, New Jersey will take part in a 10-round bout. The 31-year-old LaManna has quality wins over Kendal Mena (20-3), Matthew Strode (25-6), Michael Marcano (25-5-1) and his bout when LaManna stopped Juan Manuel Witt (33-1-2) in the third round to retain his WBA Fedelatin Middleweight crown on July 22 in Atlantic City.

Fighting in an eight-round bout will be popular Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga (14-1, 14 KOs) taking on Ahmed Hefney (13-3, 5 KOs) of Alexandria, Egypt.

Appearing in six-round bouts will be:

Joseph Adorno (18-3, 15 KOs) of Allentown, PA battling Barulio Rodriguez (20-8, 17 KOs) of the Dominican Republic in a super lightweight bout.

Mike Lee (10-2, 5 KOs) of Orange, NJ fighting Rickey Edwards (13-5, 3 KOs) of Paterson, NJ in a welterweight contest.

Paul Kroll (10-0-2, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia collides with Weah Archibald ((10-15, 5 KOs) of Mount Vernon, NY in a welterweight fight.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Dwyke Flemmings Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs) of Paterson, NJ squares off with Luis Briceno Roman (3-4, 3 KOs) of Houston in a junior middleweight bout.

Malik Nelson (4-0, 3 KOs) of Avenel, NJ fights Romel Tasanimp (2-1) of Baltimore in a Featherweight bout.

Anthony Johns (6-1, 5 KOs) of Newark, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a flyweight bout.

Kasir Goldston (5-0-1, 2 KOs) of Albany, NY will fight George Gethers (0-5) of Jersey City in a super lightweight tussle.

John Vallejo (4-0, 2 KOs) of New York scraps with Nelson Morales (4-11, 1 KO) of Scranton, PA in a junior middleweight affair.

Keon Ivory (2-2, 1 KO) of Lodi, NJ will take on Orland Ortiz (1-1, 1 KO) of New York in a super middleweight fight.

Tickets are priced at $306, $231, $121, and $66, are on sale, and can be purchased at www.Ticketmaster.com.

Broadcast distribution for this event series, as well as the remainder of the December 29 fight card, will be announced in the coming weeks.

About Prudential Center

Prudential Center is the world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007 and recently celebrating its 15^th year as a marquee destination, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 210 concerts, family shows and special events each year. Ranked in the Top 5 worldwide by Pollstar, Billboard and Venues Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and hosts over 2 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit https://www.prucenter.com/ and follow the arena on Facebook, X and Instagram @PruCenter. Prudential Center is a HBSE property.

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About Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE):

Recognized as one of the most innovative and entrepreneurial companies in the industry today, HBSE is a leading sports and entertainment company, with a focus on inspiring possibilities in people and enhancing the communities where we live, work, play and win. HBSE brands provide distinctive and innovative ticketing, booking, hospitality, concessions and catering opportunities and services connected to game and event experiences. Founded by Josh Harris and David Blitzer, HBSE’s global portfolio has grown to include premier sports franchises, brands, venues and investment platforms, centered around marquee assets, the Philadelphia 76ers, the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center. 

BACK IN FEBRUARY 2021 the career of Gavin Gwynne was turned on its head in a spectacular fashion. Knocking on three years later the Welshman is set to fight for the European lightweight title on Friday night at York Hall, live on TNT Sports.

Gwynne, along with fellow headliner Sam Noakes and the rest of the card, convened in London this afternoon for a media conference ahead of the weigh-in on Thursday.

The big turning point arrived during the gloomy days of lockdown with sport taking place behind closed doors and Gwynne ventured north to Bolton as the away fighter to compete for the Commonwealth title against the highly-rated Irishman Sean McComb.

It was probably considered that defeating Gwynne would represent a solid win for the then 11-0 favourite McComb, with the B-side of the coin having recently suffered defeats to Joe Cordina and James Tennyson when he stepped up the levels.

However, the now 33-year-old disregarded the form guide and forced McComb into an early seventh round retirement.

Gwynne admits himself that he couldn’t have foreseen his upturn in fortunes ahead of his Bolton triumph.

“No I couldn’t, to be honest with you,” said the man from Merthyr. “During lockdown I never thought boxing and things were going to come back, but I turned my career around in lockdown by beating an unbeaten, tricky southpaw in Sean McComb and stopping him in good style as well.

“So I couldn’t have imagined it three years ago, no.”

When it comes to the question of what prompted his career taking a turn for the better, Gwynne’s response could go some way towards explaining why there were so many away fighters who upset the odds across the Covid period.

Part-time boxers found themselves training like full-time athletes.

“My losses have been at world level and not British level, so I think it was just having 50-50 fights, sort of thing and obviously confidence in myself and my ability.

“Being full-time as well made a hell of a difference. Obviously, during lockdown, I couldn’t work at the time and I was just training constantly.”

Three wins and a draw later, with a British title belt having found a home in Merthyr for the first time since Johnny Owen was champion, Gwynne is able to ponder the prospect of broadening his ambitions.

“Yeah, 100%, winning this fight on Friday will have me pushing on to world level and I have already fought a world champion in Joe Cordina. I thought I boxed very well in that fight, only losing by three of four rounds according to the judges and he is a world class fighter.

“I am confident I can compete at world level,” he added, before revealing that he didn’t consider himself consigned to a career of domestic away assignments following his two defeats. He is now a fully signed up Queensberry fighter who believes his star will continue to rise.

“Not really because I’ve always had that belief in myself and I knew the opposition I was going in against. I travelled all around the world to work with world class fighters and always gave a good account of myself, so I have always had the belief.

“It is a massive career move for myself. It is a bit of security knowing I am with Frank for two years and I know he will keep me busy because I am always in good fights.

“Being the Merthyr Mexican, that is the way I fight, I am just ruthless when I jump in there and I can’t wait to let my hands go on Friday.”

The job in hand tonight comes against the undefeated veteran Emiliano Marsili with the vacant EBU belt at stake. Gywnne strongly suspects he will be too much, too late for the Italian southpaw.

“He is 47 and 42-0. He is kicking on now and, to be honest with you, I could have beaten him in his prime. Him being 47 is not going to help his case on Friday night when I start letting my hands go and he is not doing any damage to me.

“I think the size of me will be a massive factor as well because I am a welterweight, really. He is a featherweight coming up so I think this will play a part.

“I’ve got to try and do better than Liam Williams last week now. I don’t punch like Liam but you know what you are going to get with me, I’m going to be throwing 300-400 punches a round. I don’t care what I get hit with and he doesn’t have the power to keep me off him. I know that for a fact.

“As soon as he sets his feet, that’s game over for him.”

NEW YORK, NY – November 28, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced the broadcast team and main card additions for the Jake Paul vs. Andre August and Most Valuable Prospects IV event taking place on Friday, December 15 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL live on DAZN as a part of its subscription package. Paul vs. August, presented by CELSIUS Essential Energy Drink, will feature famed voices in combat sports including Ariel Helwani, Todd Grisham and Dan Canobbio as the night’s commentators and ringside analysts, with YouTube boxing commentator Wade Plemons serving as host. The Most Valuable Prospects IV main card will feature two additional action-packed bouts between light middleweights Yoenis Tellez (6-0, 5 KOs) vs. Livan Navarro (15-1, 9 KOs) for the WBA Continental Latin Americas title and heavyweights Lorenzo Medina (8-0, 7 KOs) vs. Joshua Temple (12-2, 10 KOs).

Tellez vs. Navarro and Medina vs. Temple will precede MVP’s 10-round special championship feature of Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green vs. Franchón Crews-Dezurn for the WBC super middleweight title and headliners Jake “The Problem Child” Paul vs. professional boxer Andre August in an 8-round cruiserweight fight. Tickets for Paul vs. August, Green vs. Crews-Dezurn and Most Valuable Prospects IV are available now at https://www.ticketmaster.com/most-valuable-promotions-jake-paul-vs-orlando-florida-12-15-2023/event/22005F67C7631182 starting at just $75.

Lorenzo Medina vs. Joshua Temple will kick off the Most Valuable Prospects IV main card with a 6-round heavyweight bout on Friday, December 15th. Medina, the 19-year-old heavy hitter and Most Valuable Prospects fan favorite, returns to Most Valuable Prospects IV from Hialeah, Florida to continue testing his 8-fight undefeated professional record against the more experienced Temple. The St. Louis, Missouri native Temple, a twelve-time national amateur champion, comes to the ring off a five-fight win streak ready to test his early-round knockout power on Medina.

Following the bout will be the highly-anticipated 10-round light middleweight Cuban battle between star prospect Yoenis Tellez vs. Livan Navarro for the WBA Continental Latin Americas title. Tellez (6-0, 5 KOs), from Stafford, Texas by way of Santiago, Cuba, made a name for himself in the opening PPV bout of the Terrence Crawford vs. Errol Spence Jr. welterweight championship unification showdown, in which Tellez took on the far more experienced Sergio Ramos and dealt Ramos a brutal 3rd round knockout, the seasoned Garcia’s third loss in 37 professional matches – and his first loss by TKO. Tellez spent most of his youth in Cuba as an amateur boxer, winning national youth titles in 2017 and 2018 before moving to Russia in 2020 to make his pro debut. Tellez eventually moved to Texas in 2022 to begin training with Ronnie Shields. He is managed by Eduardo Perez and promoted by BoxLab Promotions and Warrior’s Boxing. 

Livan Navarro (15-1, 9 KOs), the Miami-based fighter out of Havana, Cuba, is on a four fight win streak and will take the ring against Tellez following a strong 15-1 start to his professional career and following an impressive 306-20 amateur record. Navarro made his pro debut at age 24 and secured an 11-0 record within his first three years as a professional, before suffering a hard loss to Justin DeLoach in 2020. Navarro enters the ring vs. Tellez coming off a four-fight win streak, seeking to put his name back at the top of the rankings. He is trained by Jorge Rubio.

Providing commentary on these fights will be an all-star broadcast team consisting of Todd Grisham, Wade Plemons, and Dan Canobbio. Beloved YouTube boxing commentator Wade Plemons will serve as host of the show, while Dan Canobbio, Fox Sports’ boxing regular and host of Pluto TV’s Inside Boxing Live returns to serve as analyst and commentator. ESPN veteran and DAZN combat sports reporter Todd Grisham will provide commentary and call the fights throughout the Paul vs. August and Most Valuable Prospects IV main card. Famed combat sports reporter Ariel Helwani will serve as the ringside reporter. The full main card will be offered on DAZN subscription to ensure accessibility to fans worldwide.

“We built the Most Valuable Prospects series on the foundation of giving young and upcoming talent a platform to display their skills and build their names on our stage. As we close out this year’s Most Valuable Prospects series on Friday, December 15th, we are proud to welcome back Lorenzo Medina, who alongside Yoenis Tellez, Livan Navarro, and Joshua Temple personify the skill and energy Most Valuable Prospects represents,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of MVP. “With Shadasia Green battling for the WBC super middleweight championship and Jake continuing on his journey to being world champion, this is not only a card every boxing fan can enjoy, but is exactly what we envisioned when we launched this series. Thank you to DAZN, Caribe Royale Resort, BoxLab, and CELSIUS for this incredible year of partnership. We look forward to unveiling our next six installments in 2024 showcasing more of the young, rising athletes around the world.”

Fans will also get the opportunity to witness four additional preliminary bouts during the Paul vs. August fight. Cruiserweight Zachary Randolph (9-3-1, 3 KOs) out of Fairmont, WV will take on Pittsburgh, PA fighter Michael Manna (7-5, 4 KOs) over six rounds, and 19-year-old welterweight prospect Elijah Flores (6-0, 2 KOs) will put his undefeated record on the line against Javier Mayoral (6-3-1, 1 KO). Bantamweight Alex Gueche (2-0, 2 KOs), the 18-year-old out of Long Beach, CA will also take the ring for a four round bout, ahead of Xavier Bocanegra (3-0, 2 KOs)’s featherweight four round battle. 

Jake Paul vs. Andre August fight week events will be free to the public and will kick off Wednesday, December 13 at the Caribe Royale Resort with doors opening at 12 PM ET, with the fighters facing off at the final press conference before the big event. The press conference will begin at 1 PM ET and will be moderated by Todd Grisham and presented by Celsius Essential Energy Drink. The special championship feature fighters Shadasia Green and Franchón Crews-Dezurn will kick off the event, and then the main event fighters Jake Paul and Andre August will join them on the stage. The event will be broadcast across DAZN’s YouTube channel, MVP’s YouTube channel, and Jake Paul’s YouTube channel.

The public weigh-ins will also be free to the public and will be taking place on Thursday, December 14 at the Caribe Royale Resort at 5 PM ET, with doors opening at 4 PM ET. The weigh-ins will be shown live again on DAZN’s YouTube channel, MVP’s YouTube channel, and Jake Paul’s YouTube channel.

The Most Valuable Prospects series is produced and promoted by MVP, with Boxlab Promotions serving as the official licensed promoter and is distributed by DAZN. The fourth event in the series will continue the commitment from MVP co-founders Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian to highlight the world’s best up-and-coming boxing talent. All events within Most Valuable Prospects will take place on Friday nights in 2023 and will be hosted by Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. The series has been renewed for six installments in 2024 and DAZN will air the series globally across its platforms as a part of its subscription package. CELSIUS Essential Energy Drinks, maker of lifestyle energy drink, is the exclusive energy drink sponsor of the Most Valuable Prospects series. Digital sports, entertainment, and gaming company DraftKings will serve as the Official Sports Betting Partner of Paul vs. August and Most Valuable Prospects IV. 

For more information, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @MostVPromotions, and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @JakePaul, @MostValuablePromotions, and @DAZNBoxing.

How to watch DAZN  

• Visit DAZN.com and follow the steps to sign up now
• Once signed up, download the DAZN app to watch on any device
• Go to the app store on your chosen device, search ‘DAZN’ and download the DAZN app  
• DAZN is available on your phone, tablet, smart TV, streaming devices such as Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, and gaming consoles. 
• Connect multiple devices to your account to watch at home or on the go  

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

Most Valuable Promotions was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP have produced Jake Paul’s last five global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Diaz match. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head to head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, recently earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

About DAZN

DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK.? Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.? 

DAZN is the NFL’s global partner and, from the 2023 season, will be the only place for fans around the world to watch every NFL match through the NFL Game Pass International add-on subscription. DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F.? DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans.?

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DAZN is reimagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialize, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN.?

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles, ensuring that fans have access to a ground-breaking rights catalog and slate of incredible content. In the UK and globally, DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including PlayStation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and can find the app on their iPhone, iPad, and android mobile devices. DAZN is available as an Amazon Channel on Amazon Prime TV and can be viewed on Channel 429 on Sky in the UK and Ireland.   

DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?www.dazngroup.com.??

Top Rank won the promotional rights of the vacant featherweight world title fight between the Uzbekistan’s Otabek Kholmatov and the American Raymond Ford. 

The promoter offered an amount of US$ 317,500.00, while giving three possible options of date and place to make the fight. The first is February 16, in New York; the second is February 17, in Ryad; and the third is March 2, in New York. 

Matchroom Boxing also participated in the bidding, offering US$ 255,555.55 in the bidding that took place through Zoom this Monday morning. 

Kholmatov and Ford are the top two rated 126-pounders and will contest the world championship that was recently vacated due to former champion Leigh Wood’s move up in class.

MIAMI, FL (Nov. 27, 2023)—Although Adrien Broner is sidelined with an injury, promoter Don King still has five action packed title fights on tap Saturday night on the People’s Championship boxing card at Casino Miami Jai Alai.

“We’ve got five spectacular and action-packed title fights ready for our boxing fans of South Florida,” said King. “And since we lost one title fight, we’ve set a holiday special price of $25 for this fantastic evening. It’s the People’s Championship.”

WBA Continental America’s Middleweight Champion Ian Green (17-2, 11 KOs), who has shown his talents at Casino Miami in the past, will defend his title against Vaughn Alexander (18-7-1, 11 KOs) of St. Louis, MO.

Tre’Sean Wiggins (15-5-3, 8 KOs) of Newburgh, NY will defend his WBA NABA Welterweight Championship against Chris Howard (18-2-1, 8 KOs) of Cincinnati, OH. 

The vacant WBA International Lightweight title bout will be up for grabs as Antonio Perez (8-0, 5 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA will take on Las Vegas’ Haskell Rhodes (29-5-1, 14 KOs).

The WBA NABA Middleweight Championship will be decided when Alex Castro (13-1, 11 KOs) of Tulua, Colombia challenges Harry K. Cruz (14-3, 11 KOs) of Bronx, NY via Puerto Rico.

The fifth title fight will see the vacant WBC Youth Intercontinental Super Lightweight championship on the line as Fort Lauderdale’s DeVon Williams (3-0, 3 KOs) looks for the belt against the savvy Nelson Morales from Scranton, PA via the Dominican Republic.

One undercard fight rounds out the card as an eight-round bantamweight attraction features Boynton Beach, Florida’s Lawrence Newton (15-0, 7 KOs) and Jonathan Smith (8-2, 6 KOs) from South Bend, IN.

Tickets, priced from $25, are on sale and can be purchased at www.playcasinomiami.com for the Saturday night card.  Ringside tables are $1,500. Side floor seats are $50, floor ringside are $100 and ringside seats are $300.

The People’s Championship night of boxing also will be available on DonKing.com, FITE.TV AND ITUBE247.com.

LOS ANGELES (November 26, 2023)–Brandon Adams is primed and ready for a big year when the calendar turns to 2024.

Adams of Los Angeles is now eager to get back in the ring after his eighth round stoppage over then perfect Serhii Bohachuk on March 4, 2021.

Bohachuk is now in line for a WBC Interim title bout with Sebastian Fundora, and Adams would like to get a crack at the winner of that bout.

Adams, 23-3 with 15 knockouts, is looking to get back in the ring in early of 2024, and then he should be ready, willing and able to take on all comers in the 154-pound division.

“By Bohachuk getting the opportunity to fight in the title bout, that is good for me because I am the only guy to beat him and I knocked him out. I am sure he would want to try to avenge that loss at some point and what better way to do it then with a belt on the line,” said Adams

“It’s been a long time coming by getting back in the ring.  I feel by getting back in there and being active, I will get to fight the top fights against the top fighters in the world.”

“I’m excited for Brandon’s return to the ring,” said Adams manager Mark Habibi of Wise Owl Boxing. “He has some fight news that’s going to be announced soon. He deserves to be high up in the rankings too. People shouldn’t forget Brandon’s last opponent was Bohachuk who was stopped by Brandon in round eight. Bohachuk is now fighting for the interim title for the WBC and Brandon has been forgotten. He deserves a shot.”

Adams is promoted by Banner Promotions.

Orlando, FL (November 27, 2023) – Boxlab Promotions is proud to announce they will host the World Boxing Association (WBA) KO Drugs fight card Friday, December 8 at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, FL. The card will air live on DAZN at 7:30 PM ET.

The KO Drugs fight card precedes the 2023 WBA Convention, which takes place December 11-15 at the Caribe Royale Resort. The 2022 WBA Convention was also held at the Caribe.

“The WBA is honored to return to our home, the Caribe Royale Resort” said WBA President Gilberto Jesus Mendoza. “We are confident that our 2023 convention will be even better than last year’s. Prior to this great event, we have a spectacular KO Drugs fight card. That is the hallmark of Boxlab Promotions.”

Tickets from $40 are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com under WBA KO Drugs. Doors open at 5:30 pm and the first fight begins at 6.

The KO Drugs fight card features multiple WBA regional title bouts.

Headlining this exciting evening of boxing is an intriguing ten round contest for the WBA Fedelatin lightweight title between Idalberto Umara and Fradimil Macayo.

Fighting out of Miami, FL by way of Cuba, Umara’s 11-1 with 8 KO’s. On July 28^th, Umara scored a vicious one punch knockout over former Olympian William Encarnacion in the second round. The knockout, which came via uppercut, is among boxing’s best in 2023.

Representing his native Venezuela, Macayo’s outstanding professional record is 16-1 with 13 KO’s. In his most recent bout, Macayo defeated previously unbeaten Armando Ramirez Almanza via unanimous decision. He also holds amateur victories over 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist Robson Conceicao and 2012 Olympian Wellington Romero.

Blue chip prospect Kevin Hayler Brown challenges Marcos “El Tigre” Jimenez for the WBA Continental Americas junior welterweight championship. Originally from Cuba, Brown lives and trains out of Las Vegas, Nevada under Trainer Ismael Salas. On May 26, Brown 3-0 (2 KO’s), won a hard-fought ten round unanimous decision over Julian Smith.

Representing Higuey, Dominican Republic, Jimenez is 25-10 with 17 wins by KO. Jimenez’ battled several contenders and world champions including Diego Magdaleno, Carlos Molina, Anthony Peterson, Jose Felix, Ryan Martin and Ladarius Miller.

Orlando native Jeovanny “El Rayo” Estela looks to keep his perfect record intact when he meets Mexican knockout artist Juan Egana Elizalde. Estela, 13-0 (4 KO’s), scored a first-round stoppage of Luis Caraballo Ramos in September. The 23-year-old has a large following in Central Florida and has improved each time out. At 11-2 with all his wins coming by knockout, Elizalde’s won eight straight fights.

In a battle of unbeatens, 2020 Dominican Olympian Euri Cedeno, 6-0-1 (6 KO’s) challenges Cuba’s Yoanki “Diamante” Urrutia, 13-0 (5 KO’s). This highly touted middleweight contest is scheduled for eight rounds.

Women’s standout Jasmine Artiga, 11-0-1 (5 KO’s), vies for the WBA Continental Americas Super Flyweight title. The Tampa, FL native faces an opponent to be named in a ten-round contest.

In an eight-round super bantamweight bout, Mexico’s Israel Rodriguez Picazo, 20-5 (19 KO’s), challenges Wilner Soto, 23-13 (12 KO’s) of Colombia.

Junior welterweight Aaron Aponte, 7-1-1 (6 KO’s) of Hialeah, FL squares off with Mexico native Roberto Almazan Monreal, 11-21 (4 KO’s) in a six rounder.

Undefeated Orlando native Jean Guerra Vargas puts his 6-0 record on the line when he takes on Colorado Springs, CO’s Pedro Hernandez, 7-15-1 (2 KO’s) in a four-round contest.

International standouts Abass Baraou, 13-1 (9 KO’s) of Berlin, Germany and Nigeria’s Opeyemi Adeyemi, 9-0-1 (7 KO’s) face opponents to be named.

“The entire team at Caribe Royale is proud to once again serve as the host for the WBA Convention,” said Amaury Piedra. “It’s great to have all the international visitors and boxing legends returning to Orlando. This event helps showcase the area and will bring a strong viewing audience via our broadcast partner DAZN.”

Located just minutes from the Walt Disney World^® Resort in the nation’s number one convention and tourist destination, Caribe Royale Orlando is the only AAA Four Diamond all-suite meetings resort in Orlando. A TripAdvisor 2022 Travelers’ Choice Award winner – among just 10 percent of hotels worldwide to receive the distinction – the upscale Caribe Royale Orlando is emerging from a $127 million renovation that includes fully remodeling all of its one-bedroom suites, an all-new 50,000-square-foot grand ballroom (bringing the total meeting space to 220,000 square feet), and an inviting new lobby. To learn more or to book a visit, event, or meeting, visit www.cariberoyale.com. Follow the all-suite convention hotel on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (@cariberoyale), LinkedIn and Pinterest. #cariberoyaleorlando  

Interim WBC Super Middleweight World Title – 12 Rounds

David Benavídez – 167 lbs.

Demetrius Andrade – 167.6 lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

Middleweights – 10 Rounds

Jermall Charlo – 166.4 lbs

José Benavídez Jr. – 161.2 lbs.

Note: Contracted weight was 163. Fight will go on as scheduled.

Referee: Harvey Dock; Judges: Max DeLuca (N.Y), Dave Moretti (Nev.), Zachary Young (Calif.)

IBF Junior Welterweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Subriel Matías – 139.8 lbs.

Shohjahon Ergashev – 139.8 lbs.

Referee: Celestino Ruiz; Judges: David Sutherland (Okla.), Don Trella (Conn.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

WBA Super Featherweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Héctor Garcia – 129.4 lbs.

Lamont Roach – 129.6 lbs.

Referee: Tony Weeks; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Max DeLuca (N.Y.), Robert Hoyle (Nev.)

SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN 

Stream Live at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT

on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube Channel and the

SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page

Super Lightweights – 10 Rounds

Sergey Lipinets – 139.4 lbs.

Michel Rivera – 138.8 lbs.

Referee: Celestino Ruiz; Judges: Eric Cheek (Nev.), Glenn Feldman (Conn.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

Super Welterweights – 10 Rounds

Vito Mielnicki Jr. – 153.2 lbs.

Alexis Salazar – 152.8 lbs.

Referee: Robert Hoyle; Judges: Lisa Giampa (Nev.), Chris Migliore (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. SHOBOX: The New Generation^® commentator and award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show co-host Brian Campbell will serve as the ringside reporter. A pair of Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr., and boxing historian Steve Farhood, who will serve as unofficial scorer. Four-time Emmy^® Award winner David Dinkins, Jr. is the executive producer. The producer is Ray Smaltz III and the director is Bob Dunphy. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst.

The SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show co-host Luke Thomas with special guest esteemed trainer Stephen “Breadman” Edwards.

#          #          #

ABOUT BENAVÍDEZ VS. ANDRADE

Benavídez vs. Andrade will see undefeated two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez defend his Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title against unbeaten two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade headlining a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, November 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. 

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo against exciting contender José Benavídez Jr. in a 10-round non-title WBC special event in the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting IBF 140-pound world champion Subriel Matías faces unbeaten mandatory challenger Shohjahon Ergashev and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Héctor García duels top-rated mandatory challenger Lamont Roach in the telecast opener.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #BenavidezAndrade, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

Dublin, Ireland – 24 November 2023 – The WBC Interim World Featherweight Title Challenger Lucy Wildheart hit 125.35lb at today’s official weigh in held at the Helix, Dublin, ahead of her fight with Skye Nicolson tomorrow night.

Swedish star Wildheart (10-2-0, 4 KO’s) faces the unbeaten champion Nicholson at the 3Arena on Matchroom Boxing’s blockbuster show headlined by the big rematch between Katie Taylor and Chantelle Cameron.

Australia’s Nicolson (8-0-0) weighed in at 125.15lb as she puts her title on the line for the first time since winning the belt against Sabrina Perez in September.

Wildheart, who now resides in Chelmsford, Essex, has had a perfect camp with Trainer, Sam Mullins at Churchills Gym and is in prime condition to tackle Nicolson and relieve her of the crown on Saturday night.

“Everything is done now and it’s just the fight tomorrow night. I’m ready for this moment and can’t wait to get in the ring and get the job done.”

Eddie Hearn:

“We are so happy to be back in Dublin, last time was good, this Saturday is going to be unbelievable. We are lucky to be part of something that is going to be very special, to everybody involved from the media to our team at Matchroom and of course to the fighters, you guys and girls have got a wonderful opportunity on Saturday night, live around the world on DAZN, to defend titles, to move into World championship positions, to maybe even move into future contracts with Matchroom and DAZN, and it’s all culminating in a main event that is just breathtaking. Chantelle Cameron was superb last time and is defending her undisputed 140lb title against the legend Katie Taylor. Last time, Gary Cully suffered defeat and then so did Katie, and it was almost like ‘that’s it’ for us in Ireland. But a few months on we’re back in a sold-out 3Arena with an even better card stacked with action, so many great fights and great fighters on display.”

Alfie Sharman:

“What a fight we have ahead of us, Chantelle looked indestructible in April and Katie being the formidable competitor that she is, it’s going to make for an amazing event. This night kicks off an incredible schedule to the end of the year, no-one in the world of boxing is doing what we’re doing right now and we’re incredibly proud to be bringing that to boxing fans all over the world.”

Chantelle Cameron:

“I am not complacent whatsoever, that’s why I put the work in. I feel like it’s the best camp I’ve ever had and I know that I’m going to be up against a Katie Taylor seeking revenge, I’ve taken that in my stride and worked hard because I know that this is not going to be a walk in the park. I’m the fittest I’ve ever been.

“I always set a hot pace every time I go in there, I have a high work rate but I can also adapt to any situation. I can get stuck in and have a fight, but I can also box. I feel really comfortable here, I’m embracing the week and enjoying it for once, usually I hate all this but I am taking it in my stride and enjoying it. 

“I’ve had great preparation, I’m the fittest and strongest that I have ever been, I don’t have a torn tricep this time, so I am good to go.”

Katie Taylor:

“I’m very grateful for this opportunity again, I have a second chance and I just can’t wait to fight at this stage. Whether I am seen as the underdog or the favourite, whoever walks first or second, it’s irrelevant, I am just hungry for the rematch, I can’t wait to step in there on Saturday and perform the way I know I can. I don’t really take too much notice of what people are saying to be honest, I am very single-minded and the only people I listen to are my team and my family, the people that I trust. I understand that this is a huge fight, I understand it is must-win for me, I know I am going to perform to the best of my ability on Saturday and it’s going to be a completely different fight to last time and I am just excited to showcase that.

“I feel a lot better this time around. I’m just ready to fight. I hate all the talk, I hate all these press conferences, there’s nothing to say, I am just excited and ready. I am always ready for whatever comes my way, ready to dig deep if I have to, that’s why I put my body through the trenches week in, week out to be ready for these situations. 

“This is what every fighter dreams of, to headline a huge sold-out show like this, it’s going to be another amazing night on Saturday, the atmosphere is going to be electric again. I can’t wait, may the best fighter win.”

Jamie Moore:

“Relaxed, cool calm and collected, that’s a generic thing that we try to keep in terms of how we run things. Chantelle performed last time under a hell of a lot of pressure, it was a fantastic atmosphere and I expect it to be an even better one this time as everyone is going to get behind Katie and try and back her. We expect Katie to perform better, but I expect Chantelle to do the same. We sat down ten weeks ago and watched the fight back for the first time and we agreed halfway through that she could perform way better than she was even at that point in the fight. 

“Where I wanted her to be at the end of camp, she’s surpassed that, she’s better than I ever anticipated she could be, and she seems she’s really coming into her prime now. I expect an even better fight than last time, because I expect Katie to come, but there’s no doubt in my mind that Chantelle comes out on top.

“The unknown is always the scary part. Going into the Lion’s Den and boxing Katie who is a living legend, it’s an unknown factor. Now she’s walked that path, it’s not that she doesn’t have the nerves, but she’s experienced it now and she’s coping with it better. She’s coming across better with the media, she’s never been one to embrace this stuff, she’s always shied away from it and let her fighting do the talking, but she is speaking a lot better now and that comes with experience I suppose.”

Ross Enamait:

“It’s a huge night and i just can’t wait for Saturday to come. I feel like we’re in a much, much better place than we were last time around, we’re healthier and there’s no pressure on us. No-one thinks we have a shot, so we’re here to prove everyone wrong. Losing sucks, nobody wants to be there, it’s been a long time since Katie lost, she’s always hungry but she’s hungrier now, and in a much better place. We’ve had a great camp and there’s not much to do but show up on Saturday and fight. I’m only worried about our side, it’s a rematch, they’ve seen each other before, there’s not going to be much feeling out. They’re going to get straight into it, I’m sure they’re coming after us, so we’ll see on Saturday, but I can tell you we’re ready. It’s about getting in there and winning. Katie doesn’t love being up here, I don’t think anybody does, aside from yourself! But we’re just here to fight, this is part of the game and we understand that. A lot of people are writing us off, but to me it feels like when Bernard Hopkins fought Kelly Pavlik, when at the end of that fight Hopkins stood over the media and took a look at everybody, that’s what I expecting on Saturday.”

Gary Cully:

“I’ve relocated with Joe McNally and Declan O’Rourke in Liverpool, I’ve put in the camp of my life over there. I went through some dark times, I’ve learned a lot about myself, in and out of the ring, and I’m ready to get back in the ring and back to winning ways on Saturday night. I’m a fighter, these things happen, if Reece’s memory is any good, the last time he was in a Matchroom ring, he was on oxygen when Leigh Wood sparked him. He’s been there before and knows what it feels like, I’ll show him Saturday night. He wants to talk about weight? He’s up here looking fat and skinny at the same time. I’m good, I’m sound at the weight and I’m ready to put on a performance and take him to school. 

“Last time I think we were all partying before we got the result. I was talking to Katie’s Mum yesterday about the same thing, everyone was here for a celebration, big-time boxing was back in Ireland and all that. This time, I’ve taken myself away from all of that, I’ve been in Liverpool for the last 12 weeks, cycling to the gym in my hat and scarf in the cold mornings, living in a single room. It’s humbled me a bit, back to where I came from at 15/16 years of age with a chip on my shoulder and hunger, I’ve got something to prove, and that’s what I’ll do, prove to not only myself but all the people what I can do. I will put on a masterclass of boxing, follow my coaches instructions, and if the KO comes, it comes, but it’s a Gary Cully victory all day long.”

Reece Mould:

“We’re very confident in this fight and not because of Gary’s last fight, we’ve been watching him for a while now. We actually got this fight put to us at the start of the year, i know Gary says he’s only taken this fight because we’ve seen the defeat, but i had a fight planned then three weeks out and i wasn’t prepared to give the first defence of my title up just to fight him. We were confident of coming through that fight and were hoping Gary would come through his and we would have got it on then, but it didn’t work out like that. But we’re here today and we’re very confident in what we’re going to do.

“There’s not many top fighters that come through defeats like his and bounce back. Gary has said that he’s fighting himself on Saturday night, but he’s not, he’s fighting me and he’s going to have a lot of demons going into this, anyone that suffered a defeat like he has is going to tell you a lie and that’s one of the reasons we’re so confident. I know what it’s like to be in there when you are struggling with the weight, I know the effects it has and I am sure it’s going to have an effect on Gary. 

“Your team isn’t that confident as there’s a rematch clause in this, you didn’t take the rematch with Felix, so I don’t think you are confident. I don’t think he’ll see the final bell.”

Paddy Donovan:

“I really respect Danny but I believe this is a stepping stone for me in my career. I think that I am on the way to becoming a World champion, I have all of Ireland behind me, I know how good I am and what I can do. A lot of people are saying I haven’t been tested, that’s because I don’t let anyone test me. No fighter that gets in the ring gets close to me. I feel invincible in there and I am ready to put on another show. He’s never fought anyone like me, he’s a good and durable fighter but he’s up against a World class fighter, no doubt about it. No excuses, I’ve had a 12 week camp and some of the best sparring in the World with Adam Azim, I’m in the best shape possible, well-schooled for it with a great game plan and I’m ready to execute it on Saturday night.”

Danny Ball:

“I’ll soak it all up on the night, I enjoy fighting away, I’ve done it a couple of times and the odds are always against me but I come out on top. I’ve had great preparation for this so I’m ready for it. The last time you saw me fight I didn’t have to go through the gears, you saw me box behind my jab and made it easy work, kept chopping away. You’ll see a different side of me this time, I’m ready to bring the ding-dong from the Black Country to Dublin. I’m ready for it, I’m not looking past Paddy, but a big win here and hopefully I can get something big in the new year.”

Thomas Carty:

“I’m really looking forward to it. Dan is a tough test on paper, five wins, one loss, coming in off a first round KO win. If I am on the trajectory that I think I am and everyone else thinks, he is just another stepping stone and I am going to stand on his head to get past him. Anyone that was there last time saw the atmosphere, it was breathtaking. I remember the walk out and it was just a sea of green, people going crazy – Irish fans are nuts by the way, you know that – so I am really looking forward to seeing it again. I think the atmosphere will be better this time, Katie is on the get-back this time, so everyone is eager to get the win. Dan is saying he’s had great sparring and I hope he has as everyone has an excuse when I beat them, they were drunk in the ring or something along those lines, so I hope he did have a good camp so there’s no excuses.”

Dan Garber:

“Thomas has looked fantastic in all his fights and I know what I am up against. He looks a great boxer, he’s done all that has been asked of him. I’m coming off a first round KO of an unbeaten opponent, I’ve had six weeks notice so I am probably in the best shape of my life, sparring has been fantastic, so I am going in full of confidence and there’s no pressure on me, it’s all on him. I don’t fear anyone, that’s why I took the fight and it’s what I have been waiting for. It’s the first time I’ve been in with no pressure on me, no-one expects me to win apart from myself, my trainer and manager, and they are the only people I need to believe I can win. May the best man win, Thomas has got my full respect, I’ve watched all his fights, he’s got a great jab, he looks the part, we’ll see how it goes on Saturday night.”

Skye Nicolson:

“I feel unbelievable, definitely the fittest, strongest and best prepared I’ve been for a fight. I’m definitely not overlooking Lucy, I think she is a great athlete, but we’re going to see the difference in levels on Saturday night. Full focus is on Saturday night, we can look at the Amanda Serrano fight afterwards, I have to get the job done first.”

Lucy Wildheart:

“Thank you so much for this opportunity. To all the Irish people letting us be here and seeing all the girls at the workout yesterday, they love it and it’s going to be an epic fight. I like Skye, but this is business, I’m here to win. It was a great fight, Mikaela Meyer is fantastic, but I gave her a good fight. I am supposed to be a Featherweight, it’s my division, and I am here to take over.”

Zelfa Barrett:

“Costin Ion is no slouch, he comes to win, but I believe in myself and believe I am World class, so my performance will be spectacular. I’m ready for anyone, I was speaking to Frank Smith and Steve Wood on FaceTime, it doesn’t matter where it is, I will fight anyone, anywhere with the right notice. I believe in myself so anyone can get it.”

Emmet Brennan:

“The plan was to always move fast. Jamie is Irish Celtic champion, it made sense to go after him and I think on Saturday you have two lads that are going to go toe-to-toe and the Irish fans are in for a treat. I know we’re on early so to the fans coming, make sure you are there for this fight. I’m confident, eight rounds is nothing to me. Jamie has been in wars but he’s faded towards the end of them. If that happens in this fight, no doubt about it, I will capitalize on it. We sold a lot of tickets, this for me is the fight that’s going to be the big one on the undercard, Limerick vs. Dublin, and a back and forth toe-to-toe fight, it’s huge.”

Jamie Morrissey:

“It’s a great opportunity and I’m grateful to be here, but it’s about capitalizing on it now. It’s my fifth domestic fight in seven, this is going to be the fourth unbeaten record that I will be taking. I’m not here to make up the numbers, I’m here to change my career. I have a healthy respect for Emmet but I look at him as a mere man, no different to any of my past opponents. The bookies have written me off but I I have earned my place here. Maybe people are overlooking me, I have what matters and that is real self-belief that I am going to get this job done, and I have to.”

Liam Gaynor:

“This is my big opportunity, the one I’ve been working towards and I’ve taken these big tests over the last year or so, now is my time to put on a show. If you watch any of my fights, you’re expecting a war.”

John Cooney:

“All-action, that’s what I am going to bring you on Saturday night. I saw you saying the last few weeks that people need to be in exciting fights, and that’s what I am bringing. A win here changes both our lives, but unfortunately for him, it’s only a win for me and then I am moving on to big things in the 135lb division. I want all the big names, the big domestic fights in 2024, and I am coming for all the titles, 100 per cent.”

Giorgio Visioli:

“I’m very excited, it’s been a while now and I am forward to putting on a great performance and showcasing my talent to the world. I won a lot in the UK amateur scene but GB decided not to take me after I won two double weights at Senior level, it was the right time to go as GB took my weight out of the Olympics, I decided to go pro and I think it’s the best time. It’s a great card to be on, it’s exciting times now.”

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND (November 23, 2023) – The stage is set for another unmissable night of boxing in Bournemouth as local hero Chris Billam-Smith makes a triumphant return to defend his WBO World Cruiserweight Title against Mateusz Masternak on Sunday, December 10^th live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Billam-Smith captured the WBO crown in May with a fairytale victory over countryman Lawrence Okolie in front of a record-breaking crowd at the Vitality Stadium, home of his beloved A.F.C. Bournemouth.

‘The Gentleman’ will make the first defence of his title at the Bournemouth International Centre against Polish powerhouse Masternak, who returns to the UK for the first time since his 2015 European championship war with Tony Bellew.

And fans have even more to look forward to with the full undercard revealed for the sold-out, south coast show.

As previously confirmed, 2020 Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price will face former European Champion Silvia Bortot. Having made history earlier this year by becoming the first female to win a British title, Price (5-0, 1 KO) will be aiming to end 2023 with a statement win against Italy’s Bortot (11-3-1, 3 KOs), who previously went the distance with former unified world champion Mikael Mayer.

Fellow 2020 Olympic Medallist Ben Whittaker has an opponent set for his hugely-anticipated return to the ring. Future boxing superstar Whittaker (4-0, 3 KOs), who has been wowing crowds around the country with his flamboyant and unorthodox style, returns to the scene of his spectacular pro debut to take on Stiven Leonetti Dredhaj (11-2-1, 3 KOs).

Having impressed on previous visits to Bournemouth, Michael McKinson (25-1, 4 KOs) will make the short trip from Portsmouth to take his place on the undercard. The 29-year-old southpaw stopped Lebin Morales last time out at Vitality Stadium and will be hoping a similar victory can set him up for a title run in 2024.

Following his victory over Stanley Stannard in an official eliminator bout during BOXXER’s visit to Bournemouth in May, Lee Cutler (13-1, 7 KOs) will face Obi Egbunike (8-2-1, 1 KO) for the vacant English Super Welterweight Title in a potential show-stealing 50-50 clash.

Southampton light heavyweight Lewis Edmondson (7-0, 3 KOs) joins the bill as he looks to extend his unbeaten record against Dmytro Fedas (8-4-2, 5 KOs). ‘The Saint’ claimed his seventh pro win with a technical decision victory over Petar Nosic on the undercard of Billam-Smith’s world championship winning fight in May.

And fresh from her impressive debut, 18-year-old bantamweight Francesca Hennessy (1-0, 1 KO), the daughter of renowned boxing manager and promoter Mick Hennessy, can continue the perfect start to her professional career when she gets back under the bright lights in Bournemouth.

BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom said: “The Bournemouth International Centre is going to be rocking on December 10th as we end the year with another spectacular sold-out show on the south coast. We have Olympic medallists, local stars, and some of British boxing’s hottest young talents in action. This show is a real Christmas cracker and one you do not want to miss!”

RETURN OF THE KING: Chris Billam-Smith vs Mateusz Masternak takes place on Sunday, December 10^th at the Bournemouth International Centre and will be broadcast live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA. Tickets for the year-ending, south coast show are already sold out.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and Who Dares Gyms.

The IBF European Lightweight Championship 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Mark Chamberlain 133.5lbs
Artjoms Ramlavs 134lbs

The WBC International Silver Super-Lightweight Championship 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Henry Turner 139.5lbs
Billy Allington 139lbs 

8 x 3 Minute Rounds International Middleweight Contest
Liam Williams 164lbs
Florin Cardos 164lbs

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Welterweight Contest
Ben Fail 158lbs
Nikola Stoyanov 154lbs 

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Welterweight Contest
Khalid Ali 149lbs
Fernando Mosquera 148lbs 

6 x 2 Minute Rounds International Female Light-Flyweight Contest
Kristina O’Hara 105lbs
Cristina Navarro 105lbs

4 x 3 Minute Rounds Lightweight Contest
Billy Adams 133lbs
Jahfieus Faure 132lbs

4 x 3 Minute Rounds Super-Featherweight Contest
Charlie Hickford 126lbs 
Jake Pollard 126lbs 

LOS ANGELES – November 22, 2023 – Undefeated super middleweight superstar David “El Monstruo” Benavídez and unbeaten two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade kicked off fight week events in Las Vegas on Wednesday, as they participated in an open media workout ahead of their SHOWTIME PPV headliner this Saturday, November 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. 

Wednesday’s event also featured fighters competing on the stacked pay-per-view undercard, including WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo and exciting contender José Benavídez Jr., who will meet in a 10-round non-title WBC special event in the co-main event.

Plus, unbeaten mandatory challenger Shohjahon Ergashev worked out ahead of his world title showdown with IBF 140-pound world champion Subriel Matías, and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Héctor García and top-rated mandatory challenger Lamont Roach, who battle in the telecast opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, showed off their skills.

Also participating was former world champion Sergey Lipinets, who will be taking on exciting contender Michel Rivera in a 10-round super lightweight fight in live streaming action on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing^® Facebook page beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT. Plus, sensational prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr., who takes on Mexico’s Alexis Salazar in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and available at AXS.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Las Vegas:

DAVID BENAVÍDEZ

“Junior and I pushed each other to the limit. This is something we’ve dreamed about since we were little kids. He’s co-main event, I’m main event for a pay-per-view fight. It doesn’t get better than this. We’re just really excited to be here. 

“I’m just grateful and happy to be in this position. I’m also happy to be able to give the fans this type of entertainment while everybody’s at their families’ houses on Saturday. It’s going to be a great night of boxing. 

“I think the intensity comes from experience. With everything I’ve been through in my life, I’m probably the most motivated I’ve ever been in my life. I have my son, my wife and my baby Khloe on the way. She’s going to be born in three weeks. I’m motivated on a different level right now, and I really do want to prove to you guys that I’m the best in the world. 

“I agreed to this fight with Andrade because he’s the hardest. Other than myself, he’s the best in the division. He’s the hardest task besides Canelo, so I want to challenge myself. I really do want to be the best, and I’m telling you guys that I don’t want there to be a doubt in anyone’s head that I’m the best at the super middleweight division. That’s exactly what I’m going to do. 

“To be honest with you, I’m not worried about Canelo. I’m not worried about anybody. My job is to clear out the division, and that’s exactly what I intend on doing. I’m not going anywhere. I’m going to be the best in the division. This is the start of the Benavídez era. 

“I’m going for a knockout Saturday night. I really want to give the people what they want to see. It’s not going to be an easy task, but I always find a way to secure the victory. 

“All of this is surreal to me. When I was younger, I dedicated myself. I knew I wanted to accomplish this dream, and I accomplished it. There’s still a lot of work to do, and by the time I’m done I’m going to be the greatest of my era.” 

DEMETRIUS ANDRADE

“I’m ready to rumble. I feel great. We’re going to put on a great show. It’s me again, baby. It’s showtime! 

“I’m making my legacy. It’s history, and I get to be part of that. I’m going to show out and do what I do, and that’s win. As I’ve been telling everybody, I’m the signature chef. I have everything it takes — the skills, the ability, the coverage, and the boxing IQ – to beat anybody. 

“I did everything I needed to do to get to the 168 division like I wanted to. I’ve been working with my team and my strength and conditioning coach to build up my body. I’m in tip-top shape, ready to go. I’m tall, black and handsome, in the best shape of my life. Thirty-five is just the age, and we’re going to show that I’m one of the best out there. That’s it.

“I’m going to frustrate him. You’ll see on Saturday night. When he’s not able to do what he wants to do, it’s going to play into my advantage.

“To fans who don’t know me, maybe they will be surprised by my performance on Saturday. But those who know me and have followed my career and know how I fight won’t be surprised by how I fight. They know what I’m capable of.”

JERMALL CHARLO

“I took a break from social media and got a chance to regroup and make myself better. I’m back. I now have a chance to show everybody the new me.

“I missed my fans. But now I get to go back out there and I have a tough opponent in front of me. He’s real confident. It’s my duty to break him down.

“José is different when the cameras come on. Maybe he’s not used to the lights. I don’t know. When I saw him in the elevator earlier, he didn’t say anything. But when he gets in front of the media, he acts different. That’s not me. I keep it solid the whole time. I’ve got him shook. He’s shook right now. He doesn’t know what to expect. He can’t size me up. He doesn’t know where I’m at in my mind. He doesn’t know where I’m at physically. It’s going to be a fight. It’s going to be a war.

“I smell blood. It’s been a while since I got a chance to really hunt and go eat and take my opponent down. I’m going to break him down inside the ring and outside the ring. I’m going to make sure I keep doing what I’m doing. In 2024, I’m going to give you all a lot more action and a lot more Jermall Charlo. I’m the new Jermall.

“I’m going to give the fans what they want. For the rest of my career, it’s going to be about my fans. With how much love they showed me over the years, I’m going to give the fans what they want. If they want to see me fight at 160 pounds and defend the title, I’ll do what I have to do to make the weight and do everything to be at the top of my level. Then I can go to 168 and fight there. I’ll probably move up to light heavy. Whatever the fans want to see me do, I’ll try it.

“Money doesn’t have anything to do with my motivations. I fight for my legacy. This is about me getting back to the best me. I want to be able to give the fans and everyone who supports me the best of me. I get a chance to go in there and I’m ready for war. Just know that. I’m motivated and I’m ready to show everybody.”

JOSÉ BENAVÍDEZ JR.

“This is something very special. It’s something we dreamed about as kids. Being in a big arena for this type of event is crazy. To know that we made it and we’re here, proves that all that hard work is paying off. The goal now is just to take on the world. I’m thankful to have my brother and my dad next to me. 

“It was great training with my brother. I didn’t have to lose that much weight either. Doing 147 and 154 was just killing me, so now I’m at my natural weight. I feel strong, ready, and me and my brother had a hell of a time sparring. When we’re in the ring, there’s no brothers. 

“I feel confident. I’m ready. I’ve never felt like this before. I’m hungry, and I’m going to come to eat. I’ll leave all of the talking in the ring. I don’t really care what Charlo is doing, what people think, I’m ready. I’m going to show him who the real champion is at 160. I’m going to show the world what I’m made of.

“I’ve been in the game since I was six years old. I’ve fought on Manny Pacquiao cards. I’ve fought on Cotto cards. I feel like I’m a vet in the game. At this weight I feel strong. I feel like I finally got my man strength, and I’m ready.

“I’m going to take Charlo out. I’m going to stop him. One hundred percent guaranteed. I’ll put money on it.” 

SHOHJAHON ERGASHEV

“I’m very grateful to be here. This is a big stage and I’ve been training for this fight for six months. I’m not a big talker and I don’t want to talk much before the fight. On Saturday night, I’m going to show what I’m all about.

“Yes, Subriel is a knockout artist, but I am also a knockout artist. Let’s see how bad he really is. I think I can make it a short night.

“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for a long time. I’ve been training here in the U.S. for many years. I’ve been dreaming and working towards this moment my whole life.

“I want to thank SugarHill and all of my trainers who have worked with me to get me ready for this fight. This is the best training that I’ve ever had. When I first came to the U.S. in 2017, it was very difficult to get acclimated. But with each camp and each training session, I’ve gotten better and smarter. I have the best corner in boxing and I’m looking forward to showing everybody what I’m all about on Saturday night.”

HÉCTOR GARCÍA

“All I have to say to Roach is you can keep dreaming but be careful because by the end of Saturday night you might just be going to sleep. Obviously, nothing is guaranteed, but my goal is to knock him out. 

“I’m a world champ at 130, but I learned a hell of a lot at 135. From fighting at a bigger weight class to learning from Gervonta Davis, himself, I learned valuable lessons, and you’ll see them applied on Saturday night. 

“I feel equally well at 130 and 135, but I’m the world champion at 130. It’s where I belong. It’s where I feel right at home. 

“I am ready to show that I am the best at 130, that there is nobody better than me. I’m going to prove to everybody on Saturday night that I’m here to stay and that I can beat absolutely anybody that’s in my way. 

“I can’t thank Bob Santos enough. He has changed my career and my life and given me a new perspective on what it means to be a world champion. I can’t put into words how much that means to me. And not only Bob, but my entire team. The way they support me all the way through is something that I’ve always appreciated. 

“You know what’s going to happen? Whatever Roach wants to happen. It’s going to be up to him to decide his destiny.

“My goal is to go out there and dominate. I feel equally good at 130 and 135, but I think that ultimately, I’ll end up at 140 and fight there.”

LAMONT ROACH

“This means everything to me. I put my whole life into this sport. It’s been blood, sweat and tears during this four-year journey since my last title shot. I worked my way back up to the No. 1 spot like I rightfully deserve.

“The key to my recent success has been putting my foot on the gas and taking control of everything. Just knowing that nobody is going to give anything to me so I have to go take it. You’ve got to beat the champ and I’m going to take the belt from Héctor and show why I deserve to be champion.

“It never gets old fighting on big cards like this. I love the lights. I like to showcase my skills. I’m made for this. I’ll be a superstar soon.

“I hope that the fans take away from this fight that I’m going to be the best in this division. Hopefully I can be a unified world champion and maybe even undisputed.

“García is a great fighter, but that’s when I perform my best. When people bring the best out of me. I think Héctor is a perfect dance partner for me to shine very bright on Saturday night.

“I’m not looking for this fight to be Fight of the Year or anything like that, but if plays out like that, of course I’m going to deliver on my end. But I’m looking to punish him and make this one-sided. If I can knock him out early, I’ll do it. If I can knock him out late, I’ll do it. If I can knock him out at any point, I’m going to try. I want to make this short and sweet.”

SERGEY LIPINETS

“It’s great to be back in Las Vegas and I’m excited to be back under the lights again. I was waiting for this opportunity for a long time and it finally came through.

“This is going to be a fight that will please all the boxing fans out there. Whoever likes to watch real boxing will enjoy this fight. It’s going to be a great scrap. If he stays in the pocket and bangs with me, it’s going to be even more watchable.

“This is like a make-it-or-break-it fight for me. No matter what, I still want to be a champion of the world. I believe I still have the skills. I still have the power in my hands. Winning this fight is going to put me on a rocket to the top.

“I’m just focused on the fight this Saturday night. I am 100 percent focused on winning and then we can look at the options we have going forward. All I know is that I want to be champion of the world again.

“I definitely like the fact that I’ve had a little bit of a layoff. It gave me a mental and physical break. We’ve been training with Justin Fortune for a long time, and he’s one of the best strength and conditioning coaches there is. He’s added a lot to my physical abilities. I’ve increased my punching power and improved my balance. Everything has come together and I can definitely have another run for the title.”

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“Being a part of events like this is a blessing and I’m truly grateful. I’m just blessed to be a part of these big events and having a chance to keep growing as a fighter. I’ve been down in Houston, Texas working hard with Ronnie Shields away from my family for the past three months, so we’re just ready to put on a show come Saturday night.

“Ronnie Shields is a Hall of Fame trainer and I think he’s the best trainer in the game right now. To be able to work with a guy with his experience and the greatness he’s been a part of, who wouldn’t want to be around a guy like that? Plus, we got great work with Jermall Charlo throughout the whole camp. At 21 years old, who would turn down that opportunity?

“Alexis Salazar is a great opponent and I’m excited. It’s a step-up fight for me and it’s only going to raise my game. I’m excited to show everyone how I’ve grown in the gym and how I’ve grown as a fighter. We’re going to keep leveling up and getting better and better each time we get in the ring.

“The fans should just expect fireworks and an exciting fight. You don’t want to miss it so get there early. Expect a dominant performance come Saturday night.”

#         #         #

ABOUT BENAVÍDEZ VS. ANDRADE

Benavídez vs. Andrade will see undefeated two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez defend his Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title against unbeaten two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade headlining a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, November 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. 

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will feature undefeated WBC Middleweight World Champion Jermall Charlo against exciting contender José Benavídez Jr. in a 10-round non-title WBC special event in the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting IBF 140-pound world champion Subriel Matías faces unbeaten mandatory challenger Shohjahon Ergashev and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Héctor García duels top-rated mandatory challenger Lamont Roach in the telecast opener.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #BenavidezAndrade, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.