LONG BEACH, CA (November 20, 2023) – The third edition of CBN Promotions’ “New Blood” boxing series is scheduled for December 9, 2023, at Infinite Reality Studios in Long Beach, California, formerly known as Thunder Studios.

The 10-round main event will feature a featherweight all-action clash between WBO / NABO featherweight champion Brandon “Leon” Benitez (20-2, 8 KOs) of Queretaro, Mexico, vs. Rigoberto Hermosillo (14-4-1, 9 KOs) of Los Angeles, CA. Also on the card will be WBC super flyweight Interim world champion Adelaida “La Cobra” Ruiz (14-0-1) of Los Angeles, CA, against an opponent to be named shortly. Rounding out the stellar event, super featherweight George “El Yuyu” Acosta (16-1, 3 KOs) of Whittier, CA, will battle Texan Richard “El Castigo” Medina (15-1, 8 KOs) from San Antonio in an 8-round clash.

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 6:00 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.

“We want to close the year with a fantastic card and give the fans a night to remember,” said Alex Camponovo, President of CBN Promotions. “We are building something special in Long Beach and we want to continue the momentum we’ve gained in our prior two shows. I’d like to encourage everyone to come out and enjoy a great night of boxing!”

“Everyone at our studio is thrilled to host the third installment of the ‘New Blood’ series, ending the 2023 year with a bang,” said Rolando Nichols, President of Infinite Reality Studios. “We plan on putting together another fantastic production for the fans. Everyone can expect a dynamic atmosphere of action-packed live boxing.”

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).

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.

MIAMI, FL (Nov. 20, 2023)—Adrien “The Problem” Broner suffered an injury to his right-hand and won’t be able to participate in Don King’s People’s Championship boxing card on Saturday, Dec. 2 at Casino Miami Jai Alai.

Broner, who was disappointed he won’t be able to take on Chris Howard in a tune-up fight on his road to the championship, said he will be ready to go by late February. “The hell with tune-up fights,” said Broner. I’m ready to take on any of the champions in the 140- and 147-pound division. I’m ready to fight the big guys. Everything they think I don’t have, I still got. I’m ready to fight Ryan Garcia or, Rolando Romero or the winner of the Regis Prograis—Devin Haney fight.”

“Adrien hurt his hand in the June 9^th fight against William Hutchinson,” said trainer Kevin Cunningham. “He returned to camp for six weeks for this fight and reinjured it sparring. He took a couple cortisone shots and went back to work. He hurt it again in training and the doctor said he needs to take time off.”

“We’ll continue to stay in shape and get back to work. I personally guarantee to Don King that we will be in tip top shape for a championship opportunity in late February.”

“Adrien is ready for the big time,” said King. “He’s a four-time World Champion and he’s going to win four more titles under my promotion. We’ll still hold the People’s Championship card on Dec. 2^nd with six title fights up for grabs.”

The super sensation fan favorite and WBA Continental America’s middleweight champion, Ian Green (17-2, 11 KOs) from Haledon, NJ will be featured in the main event against St. Louis’ Vaughn Alexander (18-7-1, 11 KOs) for the WBA Continental North American Middleweight title.

Tre’Sean Wiggins (15-5-3, 8 KOs) of Newburgh, NY will defend his NABA Welterweight championship against an opponent to be named.

King also will announce four other title fights to make it a night of six championships.

Tickets, priced from $50, are on sale and can be purchased at www.playcasinomiami.com for the Dec. 2^nd card.  Ringside tables are $2,500. ringside seats $300, floor seats $150 and side seats are $75. General Admission tickets at $50.

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

LAS VEGAS – November 20, 2023 – WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Héctor García will square off against top-rated mandatory challenger Lamont Roach in the telecast opener of a stacked SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, November 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.

“I’ve had an amazing training camp in Las Vegas, training and sparring with the best in the world,” said García. “I’m in tremendous shape and everything has come together for me during this training camp. My weight is right on point and I’m feeling strong.

“This is going to be a great fight for the fans because we both have something to prove, and we are going to do whatever it takes to be victorious. Lamont Roach is very skilled in a lot of areas. He’s a technical fighter with a high ring IQ. I’ve been working extremely hard to be prepared for his style. He’s coming into this fight very hungry to become a world champion, but I’m not giving up my title. I’m going to leave everything in the ring on fight night!”

García captured his world title with a one-sided unanimous decision over Roger Gutiérrez in August 2022.

“Fighting at super featherweight is where I’m most dangerous,” continued García. “I captured the WBA title by beating the best in the division. Now, I’m ready to defend my title against the number one ranked fighter in the WBA. I’m going to show the world that I’m the best fighter at 130 pounds.”

After a tremendous 2022 in which García handed the then unbeaten Chris Colbert his first professional loss and then won his title over Gutiérrez, García will look to bounce back from his only professional loss, which came in January of this year when he was stopped by Gervonta Davis in their lightweight showdown.

“A victory on November 25 will solidify my status as one of the best fighters in the world,” concluded García. “My goal is to fight the biggest names in boxing. A win against Roach will open up a tremendous amount of opportunities for me and my team.”

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

#         #         #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. ANDRADE

Benavidez 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. Also Live on PPV.com

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.

NEW YORK (November 20 , 2023) – As undefeated rising Irish welterweight star Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (11-0, 8 KOs) prepares to fight for his first title as a professional this Saturday against Danny Ball (13-1-1, 6 KOs), former world middleweight champion and fellow Irishman, Andy Lee, has become Donovan’s invaluable chief second.

Donovan vs. Ball is being showcased on a DAZN PPV card presented by Matchroom Boxing, headlined by the rematch between undisputed world super lightweight champion Chantelle Cameron (18-0) and Katie Taylor (21-1), streaming live from 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland, in a 10-round bout for the vacant World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental Welterweight Championship.

The 24-year-old Donovan was a celebrated Irish amateur boxer who compiled a sterling 161-6 record, captured 13 national titles, in addition to a silver medal at the prestigious AIBA World Junior Championships. The Limerick fighter, who was born in Ennis, Ireland, trains with Lee in Dublin and the connection has been awe inspiring to date.

Ireland has had numerous world champions, but few in the welterweight division, aside from Hall of Famer Jimmy McLarin and Eamonn Loughran. Donovan embraces the rich Irish boxing history, confident of becoming special before he hangs up his gloves and, perhaps, joining their exclusive club.

“I am a welterweight and don’t have problems making weight,” Donovan said. “I feel brilliant, strong and I believe I’ll be world champion. Right now, I’m the biggest prospect in Ireland.

“It’s amazing how Irish fighters are such big attractions. Fans love the style of Irish boxing. We’re known as sluggers, but it’s starting to change into a more boxer-puncher style today, because we have some great amateur coaches in Ireland.”

Lee (35-3-1, 24 KOs), whose cousin is unbeaten lineal and reigning World Boxing Council (WBA) World Heavyweight Champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs), not only trains Paddy, he also co-manages him along with New York-based attorney Keith Sullivan. Lee is well traveled having also been a 2004 Olympian, later trained by Hall of Famer Emanuel Steward and Adam Booth.

Not only does Lee believe Paddy is the top boxing prospect in Ireland, but he also feels that Donovan is one of the top boxing prospects in the entire world.

“I first met Paddy when he was a really young kid,” Lee remembered. “The first time I saw him was in the gym when my brother, Roger, told me about Paddy and his younger brother Eddie. Fast forward to the next time I saw Paddy; I was blown away with what I was seeing, but I wasn’t involved then as a trainer. I thought, if I was ever to get involved as a coach, this is the kid I want to do it with. He’s so talented and I see that every day I train him. He’s confident and something very special. He is one of the most talented boxers in the world.

“It’s not essential that he’s working with a world champion, but it definitely helps. I try to instill in my boxers what I learned from Emanuel Steward at the Kronk Gym, and the wealth of experience I have as a fighter going from London to Ireland, European and then Olympic competitions, and then working with Adam Booth. I’m finding a way to blend it all together.”

Presently, Lee is working in the Dublin gym with Paddy, as well as former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Heavyweight World Champion Joseph Parker (33-3, 23 KOs), of New Zealand, for his fight next month against Deontay Wilder, and Scottish heavyweight Nick Campbell (6-1, 5 KOs).

“No disrespect, “ Lee added, “because there are a lot of good fighters coming up in Ireland, but I believe Paddy is one of the best prospects in the world. It’s only a matter of time. We need to bring him along at the right pace, getting him experience in the gym. He has all the ingredients to be world champion, he just needs to cook a little more. He’s tough, works hard and is the hardest hitting welterweight. He’s taking the right steps to do what he’s capable of doing in boxing.”

Donovan has dedicated his fight to Pieta, using his boxing platform to promote the suicide prevention charity that provides mental health services throughout Ireland. Paddy lost two relatives to suicide. Lee and Sullivan have also felt the pain of suicide by close relations. The Pietra Crisis Helpline, 1-800-247-247, offers crisis intervention support, 24 hours a day 365 days a year, to anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts or engaging in self-harm and also supports those bereaved through suicide.

“I’ve spent countless hours crying for my family members,” Donovan stated powerfully. “We need to speak about this, and Pieta is there to help. If I can get somebody to call that number and change their life, I think my deed is done on this earth.” 

INFORMATION:

X (formerly Twitter): @PaddyDonovan23

Instagram: @paddy_realdeal_donovan

Facebook: /PaddyRealDealDonovan

QUINCY, Mass. (November 20, 2023) – Four-time New England Golden Gloves Champion Keno Luna will make his long anticipated professional debut at home on Saturday night, December 9, fighting on the “Pandemonium at the Palladium 2” card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), in a four-round bout against Moises Riveira.

All of the action will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com from the famed Palladium in Luna’s hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts.. GCP has partnered with Project New Hope, a Worcester-based charity that supports veterans and their families.

In addition to winning four N.E. Golden Gloves titles, Luna (67-18 amateur record) is a five-time Silver Mittens champion, who also reached the semi-finals of the 2019 and 2023 National Golden Gloves Tournament. He is trained by Chico Lopez at Ken Ball’s Camp Right Boxing Gym in Worcester.

“I wanted to make it to the Olympic Qualifiers this year, but I fell short,” Luna explained why he’s turning pro now. “I felt robbed and everybody else did too. I didn’t want to wait four more years to try and make the (2028) Olympics.

“I’m only going to be better as a pro, because my style is better suited for it than the amateurs, where it’s all about punching for points. I like to take my time and pick spots. I’m a southpaw who people in the gym have been calling mini-Pacquiao. I’m a speedy southpaw who started going to the gym when I was 10. I didn’t really know much about Manny Pacquiao, but once I started watching his fights, I realized why they were calling me mini-Pacquiao.”

Fighting at home as one of the leaders of the new wave of Worcester boxers means a lot to the 21-year-old Luna. He is aware of his hometown’s rich tradition of producing elite fighters for the past century, including top 10-rated lightweight contender Jamaine Ortiz.

“Fighting my pro debut at home is like a dream come true for me,” Luna said. I can’t wait. I’m happy and excited about this opportunity. I’ve trained with sparred Jamaine and it’s meant so much to me. He’s been my inspiration and look where he is today.”

Two other Worcester fighters are on the card as well, light heavyweight Kendrick Ball, Jr. (21-1-3, 12 KOs), and junior middleweight Khiary “Too Sharp” Gray (17-6, 13 KOs). Ball will be fighting for his third title when he faces Heber Rondon (20-5,13 KOs), of Venezuela, in an eight-round match for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Light Heavyweight Championship. Gray fights for the first time in two years, squaring off with veteran Jimmy “The Quiet Storm” Williams (18-13-2, 6 KOs) in a six-round bout match that could steal the show.

“We are honored to have Keno’s first professional bout on a Granite Chin event,” GCP president Chris Traietti remarked. “All the chatter about him has been enthusiastic and optimistic that he has the goods to go somewhere in boxing. It all just adds to the quality of the card being put on December 9th. Granite Chin is displaying the immediate and relatively soon future of Massachusetts boxing.”

The stacked “Pandemonium at the Palladium 2,” card also has International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas Super Middleweight and Massachusetts Light Heavyweight Champion Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (9-0, 7 KOs) fighting an opponent to soon be announced.

Card subject to change.

Tickets are on sale and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.?

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

X (Twitter): @Granite_Chin

Legendary boxing journalist and blow-by-blow announcer Jim Lampley returns to the ring

this week.  Jim will once again be joining PPV.COM to exclusively co-host, with Lance Pugmire, the service’s David Benavidez vs. Demetrius Andrade live viewer chat that complements its live stream of the fight, Saturday, November 25, from the Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino.  He will also provide on-site commentary and reports from Las Vegas, generating original video content for PPV.COM‘s website and social media platforms.

What are Jim’s thoughts on this rumble between these two undefeated super middleweight warriors?  Glad you asked.

“This is a MUST matchup for the continuation of a logical narrative in both the 168 lb. weight class and the pound for pound sweepstakes in the sport.  As logical opponents for Canelo Álvarez going forward, both Benavidez and Andrade figure into both those narratives.  The winner looks forward toward large horizons, the loser can argue he is not eliminated from the picture, but rather has accepted a setback by taking on a particularly difficult style matchup for him and his specific skill set.

“To win, Benavidez must go forward aggressively and impose his advantages in size and power, while Andrade must make Benavidez miss and then make him pay, employing superior elusiveness and counterpunching.  Their styles are made for each other. 

“Benavidez is a young, confident, charismatic destroyer with unusual straight-ahead power and aggressive fighting instincts.  Andrade is a superbly conditioned, athletically gifted southpaw counterpuncher with guile, craft and experience.  

“In sum, the winner becomes a logical opponent for Canelo Álvarez at 168 lbs., as both Benavidez and Andrade have been circling Canelo and hunting this opportunity for the past couple of years.” 

JIM LAMPLEY

Jim is a recipient of the Boxing Writers Association of America’s (BWAA) Sam Taub Award for Excellence in Broadcasting Journalism and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in its 2015 class. He served as anchor and commentator for “HBO World Championship Boxing” for 30 years and has covered numerous Olympic Games during his long and distinguished career in sports broadcasting.  He began his broadcasting career with ABC Sports, as television’s first football sideline reporter.        

PPV.COM
PPV.COM will be live-streaming Benavidez vs. Andrade in the U.S. and Canada on Saturday, November 25, beginning at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. PT, for $74.99 PPV.COM | Benavidez vs. Andrade.  No subscription is required.  The audio feed will be available in both English and Spanish.  iNDEMAND, the parent company of PPV.COM, will also be carrying the event through its network of cable and telco operators in the U.S. and Canada via providers including Xfinity, Spectrum, Contour, Optimum, Fios, Rogers, Bell, SaskTel, and TELUS among others.

LAS VEGAS, NV (November 17, 2023) – Undefeated super featherweight, Andres “Savage” Cortes (20-0, 11 KOs), based in Las Vegas and promoted by Top Rank Inc., has boldly thrown down the gauntlet, expressing his desire to face Mexico’s WBO world champion Emanuel Navarrete (38-1-1, 31 KOs), and WBC champ O’Shaquie Foster (21-2, 12 KOs). Cortes’ call for a high-stakes showdown comes in the wake of Navarrete’s recent draw against Robson Conceicao (17-2-1, 8 KOs) at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas last night.

“I believe I could have stopped Conceicao if I were given the chance,” said Cortes. “Navarrete is not invincible. He showed last night that he can be beaten. My style, power, and hunger make me a significant threat in this division. I’m ready for any challenge and with my recent victories, I’ve earned the right to face him.”

The determined young fighter is convinced that he is the most avoided fighter in the super featherweight division. He vows to continue working his way up the rankings to garner a world title opportunity. Cortes believes a fight with O’Shaquie Foster can be made easily being that he just signed with his promoter Top Rank.

“My record speaks for itself. I’ve consistently proven myself in the ring, yet I’m continuously avoided by other fighters in the division,” Cortes stated. “Navarrete is the champion, and I respect that, but I’m here to prove that I am the best and to claim what’s rightfully mine. Foster just signed with Top Rank so that fight can be made with ease. I want both of these champions. I’ve earned it.”

Cortes has positioned himself as a force in the super featherweight ranks. His call-out of Navarrete and Foster aims to assert his dominance and position himself for a title shot against the world champions.

“One thing I know I can guarantee is a lot of action when I step in the ring,” concluded Cortes. “What we saw in the main event last night was unacceptable for boxing fans. Whenever I fight, you can count on me throwing a lot of punches and going for the knockout. No boring ass fights in me.”

oston Boxing Promotions returns this Wednesday, November 22nd for the 6th Annual Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular live on www.CombatSportsNow.com.

The annual event, which will be sold out for the 6th straight year, has become one of the most anticipated nights of club boxing in the entire country, a bonafide holiday tradition for hardcore fight fans who watch the action online from around the world.

This year’s main event features one of the most beloved fighters in New England, Greg Vendetti (23-5-1) who will be taking on veteran spoiler, Geronimo Sacco (10-7-1). ‘The Villain’ will be making his first hometown area appearance since he went the distance in a Rocky worthy performance against WBA Super Welterweight Champion, Erislandy Lara in 2020.

Vendetti who took a year off from his professional career to join the National Guard as an infantryman in addition to creating and running a free after school boxing program for Boston area youth, returns to Boston Boxing Promotions, the same company he made his professional debut with a decade ago.

“I’m excited to be fighting locally. It’s been too long. This is a good opportunity for my supporters to see me live. It’s going to be a lot of fun for me to fight in front of my friends and family again.”, said Vendetti.

“I’ve attended Boston Boxing Promotions’ Thanksgiving Eve event in the past and the atmosphere is incredible. I look forward to putting on a show in front of a sold out hometown crowd and then go for a major opportunity early next year.”

In the co-main event, two of Boston Boxing Promotions’ most popular young fighters will go toe to toe when Haverhill, Massachusetts’ Nicky Tejada (6-0) puts his perfect record on the line against Tygnsboro, Massachusett’s Nate Balakin (6-3) in a 6 round welterweight contest. With their mutually rabid fanbases, Tejada vs. Balakin has created a massive local buzz.

In a special attraction, undefeated Ukrainian sensation, Andrii Novytskyi (6-0) will have the toughest test of his young career when he takes on former world title challenger, Santander Gelez (32-16) in a 6 round heavyweight bout.

The supporting card has all the unique hallmarks, from rematches to international heavyweights to retirement bouts, that boxing fans have come to love about the Thanksgiving Boxing Spectacular including:

Massachusetts’ Leesh Pike will take on Rhode Island’s Karen Dulin in a 6 round women’s bout that is a rematch of their back and forth battle last year.

Two young undefeated heavyweight sluggers Serhii Sheludko (1-0) and Steven Dunn (2-0), who both train out of Hollywood, California will see action separate fights.

Undefeated fighters Austin Keller (1-0) from Massachusetts and Mario Christopher Ramirez (3-0) from Simi Valley, California will be representing their 3,000 miles apart hometowns of Middletown, Massachusetts and Simi Valley, California in separate bouts.

Last but not least, Chris Jay (1-0) best known as the frontman of the band, Army of Freshmen, actor/writer of the indie comedy film, The Bet and frequent member of Boston Boxing Promotion’s commentating team will be returning to the ring for his second and final professional fight.

In keeping with the event’s popularity with boxing fans who watch the annual broadcast as well as discuss it in real time online, this year fans are encouraged to follow BoxRec’s Grey Johnson @boxrecgrey and club boxing icon, Tim Boxeo @timoboxeo on Twitter. The two outspoken and very funny experts will be live tweeting and running an online commentary throughout the night which fans can participate in.

“What started out as an ode to the days of professional wrestling promoters running on major holidays has turned into our biggest and most anticipated night of the year. We’re looking at our 6th straight sell out and the interest from press, both local and national, has been phenomenal for a regional promotion.” says, Boston Boxing President, Peter Czymbor.

‘We’re honored that it’s become a tradition for many boxing fans. We invite everyone to join us online and be part of the energy and excitement that comes with the Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular. We truly believe it’s the most entertaining club boxing show of the year.”

The Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular takes place this Wednesday, November 22 at The Castleton in Windham, New Hampshire. Limited tickets are available and the entire event will stream live on www.CombatSportsNow.com

ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events throughout Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. In 2020, Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event during the pandemic. The event led to a popular series of empty venue shows broadcast live and for free on YouTube watched by thousands of fans around the world. Their annual Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular has become a tradition for hardcore boxing fans with 6 consecutive sellouts including this year’s 2023 edition which is receiving extensive news coverage on television and in print.

Follow Boston Boxing Promotions on Social Media!

Heavyweight contender Nathan Gorman goes straight back in at the deep end when he faces Ukrainian Bohdan Myronets on December 1, live and free-to-air on Channel 5. 

Gorman returns to the ring for the first time since last year’s three-round shoot-out for the British title with Fabio Wardley, after a training injury to Lee McGregor has forced his clash with Isaac Lowe to be rearranged. 

The highly anticipated WBO European title showdown between McGregor and Lowe will now take place, early in the New Year.  

But the bumper Wasserman Boxing show in Bolton, delivered in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment, goes on – and now with a heavyweight humdinger on the card as Gorman and Byronets collide. 

And Roman Fury, fresh from his brutal stoppage win in Brighton live on Channel 5 last week, is also in action at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on Friday, December 1. 

The European flyweight title fight between the ferocious Chloe Watson and Justine Lallemand headlines this pre-Christmas cracker, with the big-punching match-up between Gorman and Myronets also showcased live on free-to-air television. 

Myronets stunned Kash Ali in Edinburgh in the summer and now he wants to add Gorman to his list of UK scalps. 

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman Boxing, said: “We’re so disappointed for Lee because he was looking in great shape ahead of this cracker of a fight with Lowe. 

“But the contest will still go ahead, early in the New Year, when Lee is fit and firing again, and it will be worth the wait I can guarantee you that. 

“In its place for our December 1 show in Bolton, live on Channel 5, comes the return of Nathan Gorman, who goes into a tough, tough fight with Bohdan Myronets. 

“This a heavy-duty, big-punching match-up that will not be for the faint-hearted, so make sure you tune-in. 

“And it supports a brilliant showdown for the European flyweight title as the future of women’s boxing, Chloe Watson, takes on Justine Lallemand. 

“We’ve also got Roman Fury, Dan Toward, Codie Smith and many more on a bumper show in Bolton!” 

Brilliant amateur Toward makes his professional debut in Bolton, the electric Smith looks to finish his first year as a pro in style, while James Moorcroft meets Matthew Rennie in a fight that is guaranteed to deliver. 

The massive card is also packed with an array of talent, including Adbul Khan, the cousin of British boxing great Amir, Nelson Birchall,Ted Jackson and Immad Naseeb.  

For any fans looking for ticket refunds, please contact your point of purchase

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND (November 17, 2023) – All the fighters made weight today ahead of tomorrow’s sold-out BOXXER: WOLVES AT THE DOOR event at The Halls in Wolverhampton featuring a European Title double header as Adam Azim challenges Franck Petitjean for the EBU European Super Lightweight Title and Tyler Denny attempts to capture the EBU European Middleweight Title from defending champion Matteo Signani, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

WBO #1 cruiserweight contender Richard Riakporhe returns to action against Dylan Bregeon with a victory needed to remain on course for a World Title challenge, while rising Welsh star Rhys Edwards steps up to face former British and Commonwealth Champion Brad Foster in a mouth-watering featherweight clash, and local talent Nyall Berry, Tion Gibbs, Dylan Cheema and Gully Powar have their chance to shine on the big stage.

Official Weights:

12×3 mins – EBU European Super Lightweight Championship @ 10st

FRANCK PETITJEAN [France] – 10st

ADAM AZIM [Slough] – 9st 13lbs 5oz

12×3 mins – EBU European Middleweight Championship @ 11st 6lbs

MATTEO SIGNANI [Italy] – 11st 4lbs 5oz

TYLER DENNY [Rowley Regis] – 11st 5lbs 5oz

8×3 mins – Cruiserweight Contest @ 14st 8lbs

RICHARD RIAKPORHE [Walworth] – 14st 6lbs 5oz

DYLAN BREGEON [France] – 14st 7lbs 5oz

10×3 mins – Featherweight Contest @ 9st 1lb

RHYS EDWARDS [Penygraig] – 9st 1lb

BRAD FOSTER [Walsall] – 9st

6×3 mins – Featherweight Contest @ 9st

NYALL BERRY [Chelmsley Wood] – 8st 11lbs 5oz

DARWING MARTINEZ [Nicaragua] – 8st 13lbs 5oz

6×3 mins – Super Lightweight Contest @ 10st

TION GIBBS [Birmingham] – 9st 13lbs 5oz

EFSTATHIOS ANTONAS [Greece] – 9st 13lbs 5oz

6×3 mins – Super Lightweight Contest @ 10st

DYLAN CHEEMA [Coventry] – 9st 11lbs

ROBIN ZAMORA [Nicaragua] – 9st 13lbs

6×3 mins – Super Featherweight Contest @ 9st 5lbs

GULLY POWAR [Wolverhampton] – 9st 1lbs 5oz

ENGEL GOMEZ [Nicaragua] – 9st 5lbs

BOXXER: WOLVES AT THE DOOR takes place Saturday, November 18th at The Halls in Wolverhampton. Watch live on Sky Sports Main Event in the UK and Irelandfrom 7pm (GMT) with undercard action also available on the Sky Sports Boxing YouTube channel, and on Peacock in the USA from 3pm (ET). 

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.

4 x 3 mins Lightweight contest
 
Criztec Bazaldua (136.6lbs)        vs.    Pedro Angel Cruz (138.8lbs)
 
Los Angeles, California                          San Jose, California
 
Followed by
 
8 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest
 
Jalan Walker (131.2lbs)              vs.              Jorge Alberto Villegas (131.6lbs)
 
Los Angeles, California                                   Los Mochis, Mexico
 
LIVE ON DAZN FROM 5PM PT
 
10 x 3 mins Super-Featherweight contest
 
Marc Castro (131.4lbs)               vs.              Gonzalo Fuenzalida (132.8lbs)
 
Fresno, California                                            Santiago de Chile, Chile
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins WBA Intercontinental Bantamweight title
 
Kal Yafai (117.6lbs)            vs.              Jonathan Rodriguez (118lbs)
 
Birmingham, England                             Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBA World Super-Bantamweight title 
 
Mayerlin Rivas (121.8lbs)           vs.              Erika Cruz (122lbs)
 
Maracaibo, Venezuela                                     Mexico City, Mexico
 
Followed by
 
12 x 3 mins WBO International and USWBC Super-Bantamweight titles
 
Diego Pacheco (167.8lbs)           vs.              Marcelo Coceres (167lbs)
 
Los Angeles, California                                    Buenos Aires, Argentina

LONDON (Nov. 16, 2023) – WBC and Lineal champion Tyson “The Gypsy King” Fury and WBO/IBF/WBA unified champ Oleksandr Usyk will collide in a historic undisputed heavyweight showdown on Saturday, Feb. 17, at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The winner will become boxing’s first undisputed heavyweight champion since Britain’s Lennox Lewis claimed that honor 24 years ago, but this time, four belts are on the line.

Ahead of the blockbuster ‘Ring of Fire’ fight, Fury and Usyk came face-to-face at a press conference Thursday in London.

 This is what the heavyweight champions had to say.

Tyson Fury

“I’ve been in many heavyweight title fights before. And now is the most important one. We’re both undefeated. He’s a champion; I’m a champion. And it’s going to be one of the fights for the ages.”

“It’s been 24 years since we’ve last had an undisputed heavyweight world champion. And we know that the Klitschkos were champions for about 10 years. So there’s been another 14 years where other heavyweights couldn’t stop it. So we’ve been chosen. And I believe we’re both destined to be here. And there’s only one winner: I’m destined to become undisputed champion.”

“We’re not here to talk. It’s not a talking contest. It’s a boxing match. On February 17, all the talking goes out the window. It doesn’t matter what he or what I said. It comes down to who wins the fight. He thinks he’s going to win. I know I’m going to win. There’s not much more to be said.”

Oleksandr Usyk

“I’m very happy to be here. Thank you to everyone. I will speak more in the ring.”

“I want to tell a story that looks very similar to our story with Tyson, about David and Goliath. When the Lord gives me Tyson in my hands, I will do my job.”

# # #

About Riyadh Season
 
Saudi Arabia’s capital embraces one of the world’s biggest entertainment events every year during winter. Since the launch of the Riyadh Season in 2019, the festival has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience thousands of concerts, sporting activities, and other unique cultural events.

Diego Pacheco headlines for the third straight fight on Saturday night – but this time the stakes are raised for the Super-Middleweight stud as he welcomes Marcelo Coceres to his Los Angeles hometown as they clash at YouTube Theater, live worldwide on DAZN.

Pacheco (19-0 16 KOs) is looking to cap a brilliant 2023 with a third KO win as a bill topper, and this time in front of his hometown fans. The LA talent pummeled Jack Cullen into submission in four rounds in Liverpool, England, in April, and was at his scintillating best in his last outing in July where he blitzed the dangerous Manuel Gallegos inside four rounds in Monterrey, Mexico – ending matters with a vicious attack after flooring Gallegos in the fourth with a trademark body shot and became the first man to stop the Mexican later in the round.

The 22 year old steps up once again against the Argentine Coceres (32-5-1 18 KOs) who has previously tested Billy Joe Saunders and Edgar Berlanga. Pacheco is ready to dazzle on his doorstep and the latter is in his sights for next year.

“It’s so special to have a homecoming show,” said Pacheco. “It’s the most important fight of my career so far, it’s time for me to headline at home. I’ve headlined in the UK and in Mexico, so to be bringing everyone out to LA is surreal, I dreamt of this as a little kid and now I can’t wait to perform on Saturday and begin a while new chapter in my career. If Eddie told me I’m fighting Canelo, I feel I would give him a good fight. I want Edgar Berlanga next after this fight. I think I knock him out, cold.

“To be doing this at 22 is cool. I thought maybe I would headline in a World title fight when I was 24 or 25. This weekend it’s the YouTube Theater, hopefully down the line it will be the SoFi Stadium. It’s a five-minute drive from my mom’s house, so it’s perfect to be having my first headline show there. 

“It’s been a great year for me. I unexpectedly became the main event in the UK in March, and I rose to the occasion and put on a great performance. The experience was great, fighting Cullen, he was a long fighter, but he didn’t have too much that fazed me or worried me at all, I just knew that I had to keep to the game plan, stick to my jab, stay sharp and the KO would come, and it did. I hit him with a few right hands that made him forget about the body, I went downstairs and got him out of there.

“I grew up in South Central LA. I always feel I owe this to my parents. They sacrificed a lot and believed in me before anyone else. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am. I come from a low-income family so for my dad to get me to all the amateur tournaments meant a lot and made me think ‘how I am not going to give my all when they have sacrificed so much for me?’”

Pacheco’s clash with Coceres tops a stacked bill in LA where Mayerlin Rivas defends her WBA World Super-Bantamweight title against Erika Cruz. 

Former World ruler Kal Yafai returns to action and faces Jonathan Rodriguez for the vacant WBA Inter-Continental Bantamweight title and Marc Castro will kick off the main card live on DAZN as he fights over ten rounds for the first time against Gonzalo Fuenzalida. 

Criztec Bazaldua steps through the ropes for the third time in his career when he takes on Pedro Angel Cruz over four rounds at Lightweight and Jalan Walker faces Jorge Alberto Villegas over eight rounds at Super-Featherweight.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (November 16, 2023) – Boxing’s two heavyweight world champions will finally meet to crown the one and only undisputed champion of the world.

WBC and Lineal Champion Tyson ‘The Gypsy King’ Fury will fight WBO/IBF/WBA unified champ Oleksandr Usyk in a history-making showdown on Saturday, February 17, at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The winner will become boxing’s first undisputed heavyweight champion since Britain’s Lennox Lewis claimed that honor 24 years ago, but this time four belts are on the line for the first time in history.

 ‘Ring of Fire’, the biggest fight in world boxing, will take place as part of Riyadh Season, one of the world’s largest winter entertainment events, and will be presented to fans worldwide. Fury kicked off Riyadh Season on Saturday, October 28, when he defeated lineal MMA heavyweight world champion Francis Ngannou by split decision.

Ahead of the blockbuster ‘Ring of Fire’ fight, Fury and Usyk came face-to-face at a press conference held in London on Thursday, November 16.

“Usyk, you can run, but The Gypsy King is coming to get you. This is my era, and your time is up. Your undefeated record AND your belts, they will be mine!” Fury said. “Thank you to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman and His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for bringing this undisputed title fight to the beautiful Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I had an amazing time here when I fought Ngannou, and I am ready to do it again. This time, The Gypsy King will return to England as the undisputed heavyweight king.”

“I have no goal,” said Usyk. “Only the way. And my way is ‘The Undisputed.’ That is why this was the only fight for me. When that bell rings, I will bring the fire.”

“Since our first Riyadh Season in 2019, the Season has developed a reputation for hosting the biggest events and they do not come much bigger than the undisputed heavyweight title fight,” said His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. “This is history in the making, a fight the world has waited for. Now it is a reality, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is excited to be hosting this era-defining fight. This will be a global spectacle and we will do everything to ensure that everyone has an experience that matches an event of this magnitude.”

“The relationship between Riyadh Season and the sport of boxing will reach unparalleled new levels on February 17, when it stages the first undisputed heavyweight fight for 24 years” said Frank Warren of Queensberry. “Tyson Fury taking on Oleksandr Usyk is simply the biggest fight that can be made in boxing and is what the world wants to see. And we take this opportunity to thank His Royal Highness, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for his blessed vision which is achieving great accomplishments. We also thank His Excellency Turki Alalshikh and Riyadh Season for making it happen.”

“Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are the best heavyweights of their era, and this undisputed battle in the beautiful city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, promises to be a sensational fight and a history-making event,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Fury is an all-time great heavyweight champion, but you can never count out Usyk, a former Olympic champion who has already conquered two weight divisions.”

“The world has finally got it!” Usyk’s manager Alex Krassyuk said. “Proud of Usyk, respect to Tyson. Let the best man win and we celebrate Usyk’s second undisputed!”

Fury (34-0-1, 24 KOs) has been the reigning heavyweight champion since November 2015. Taking a break from boxing due to personal challenges, Fury made an impressive comeback by defeating Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC world title in their rematch and sealing their trilogy with a knockout victory in 2021.

Ukraine’s Usyk (21-0, 14 KOs), an Olympic gold medalist, decided to move up from the cruiserweight division to the heavyweight division after establishing his dominance there. He caused an upset by defeating Anthony Joshua and becoming the unified heavyweight champion. Usyk successfully defended his titles against Joshua in a rematch. Now, he sets his sights on becoming only the second cruiserweight champion ever to achieve undisputed status in the heavyweight division.

##The End##

About Riyadh Season 
Saudi Arabia’s capital embraces one of the world’s biggest entertainment events every year during winter. Since the launch of the Riyadh Season in 2019, the festival has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience thousands of concerts, sporting activities, and other unique cultural events. 

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND (November 16, 2023) – Young wolf Adam Azim came face-to-face with champion Franck Petitjean at today’s final pre-fight press conference ahead of his EBU European Super Lightweight Title challenge on Saturday night at The Halls in Wolverhampton, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Local hero Tyler Denny also had the opportunity to size up his opponent as he attempts to wrestle the EBU European Middleweight Title from the Italian champion Matteo Signani in front of a sold-out crowd in the Black Country.

WBO #1 cruiserweight contender Richard Riakporhe returns to action against Dylan Bregeon with a victory needed to remain on course for a World Title challenge, while rising Welsh star Rhys Edwards steps up to face former British and Commonwealth Champion Brad Foster in a mouth-watering featherweight clash.

Adam Azim:

“I’m taking that European title. If I break my hand, if I get a cut, I don’t care. I’m taking it with both hands. I’m not here to joke about. My last performance, I had a tough opponent but I’m a different fighter now. I’ve had great sparring, great nutrition, everything has gone so well. I’m taking that European title back to Slough. I want to make a massive statement. I don’t want to be going out of the ring having just won it, I want to win by knockout!”

Franck Petitjean:

“I know he (Adam Azim) is a good boxer. He has had big career in the amateurs. He’s fast. That’s all I know. I’ve never seen him boxing. I don’t look at videos. I leave that to my trainer. I stay focused on my preparation. I’ve had a lot of fights. I’ve gone to Denmark, to Turkey, Amsterdam, Belgium. I don’t care where I am. I am the outsider. I am the champion but I’m the outsider. It’s not a problem for me because I know what it is and I’m ready. I have a lot of experience. He’s very fast but it’s not track and field, it’s boxing.”

Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO and Founder:

“For me Adam Azim doesn’t get enough credit. To not only be the fastest to challenge for a European title but to do it at 21 years old and to have already fought the guys he’s fought shows his level. The reason he fought Santos Reyes, the reason he fought Aram Faniian, guys that have boxed at European and World level, is to make sure he’s ready for moments like this and this is a huge one on Saturday. This is the start of a massive journey for Adam Azim, a superstar journey. He will be fighting for world titles soon, but he mustn’t overlook Petitjean on Saturday. He’s pulled off upsets before and Adam is going to have to be switched on from round one.”

Tyler Denny:

“I’m still smiling now. This opportunity, the set up – it’s mad. As a fighter, all you want is opportunities. Thanks to Ben (Shalom), BOXXER and Sky Sports – I’ve got one now in Wolverhampton. Tickets are sold out. I’m so excited, like a little kid, but on Saturday I’ll be switched on. I’ve done all of the hard work so I’m able to get excited. If I knew I’d cut corners and stuff, I’d be sat here more doom and gloom – so bring it on, I’m ready. I’ve put so much into it and I’m confident I’ll become European Champion on Saturday.”

Matteo Signani:

“We respect Denny. But I’ve trained very hard, and I am the Champion. It’ll be an awesome atmosphere. Everyone will be rooting for him. But inside the ring, it’s just me and him so all the people outside do not matter. I’ve always been a successful underdog, and I am here to win.”

Richard Riakporhe:

“I’m completely focused on Dylan Bregeon. I’ve trained for him. I’ve took him very seriously to say the least. We don’t want to look past Dylan because in boxing you might have a pathway in mind and things can change in the last minute, so we’re just focused on Dylan and we’re here to do a job. I’m number one for the WBO. There are big opportunities out there for me, big fights that can happen next year and we need to get past Dylan to realise them.”

Rhys Edwards:

“I’m very grateful to be on this show. I know I’ve not got an easy night ahead on Saturday. I’m facing a very good fighter in Brad Foster, but myself and my team are more than sure that I get the job done. It’s going to be a great fight. He’s a very good fighter. Former British and Commonwealth Champion. Arguably should’ve been European Champion, but we’ll see on Saturday what I have to do. I’m looking forward to it.”

Brad Foster:

“I took this opportunity with both hands. This is where I want to be, on the big stage. I deserve it. This is where I can show my skills. I’m buzzing. I’m grateful for the opportunity and I’m ready to go. He’s going to come forward. It could be the fight of the night. We both want to win so it is going to be a great fight, and the winner stays on. Experience plays a part. He’s trained his hardest, but I’ve been there and done it. Now I’m where I’ve always wanted to be and I can’t wait.”

BOXXER: WOLVES AT THE DOOR takes place Saturday, November 18th at The Halls, Wolverhampton and airs live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.

Saudi Arabia, November 15, 2023: His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), announced today that Riyadh Season 2023 will play host to the ‘Day of Reckoning’, featuring some of the most famous boxing world champions and leading contenders from the top weight divisions on Saturday, December 23, at Kingdom Arena.

An unprecedented lineup on a single night of boxing, the ‘Day of Reckoning’ will see two-time unified world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua go up against Otto Wallin as the pair close in on challenging for world title honours, while former WBO world champion Joseph Parker takes on the Bronze Bomber and former WBC world title holder, Deontay Wilder, with IBF No.1 contender Filip Hrgovic fighting Mark De Mori in another heavyweight shootout.

WBA World light heavyweight champion Dmitrii Bivol will make an 11th defence of his title against Lyndon Arthur and IBF World cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia will make a second defence of his belt against Ellis Zorro.

Back with the heavyweights, the fearsome Arslanbek Makhmudov will face the European champion Agit Kabayel. Recent world title challenger Daniel Dubois will bid to put his name back up in lights when he enters into a Battle of the Giants against Big Baby Jarrell Miller and top heavyweight contender Frank Sanchez will close in on a world title shot if he can overcome Junior Fa in Riyadh.

His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), said: “The “Day of Reckoning” fights constitute the highly anticipated event offered by Riyadh Season for boxing fans this year. It brings together a number of world boxing champions in groundbreaking bouts.” 

“We are proud to be the world’s destination for enjoying these exceptional events that constitute a unique and distinctive experience for the residents of the Kingdom, visitors to the capital, Riyadh, and followers of these events from all over the world.” 

Frank Warren, Chairman of Queensberry, said: “This is quite simply an incredible night of boxing we have put together on behalf of Riyadh Season and the GEA and I would like to pay tribute to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for making this possible and for providing boxing with such history-making opportunities to showcase the very best of the sport to a global audience. Never before, I believe, has one card featured such an array and depth of talent and fans lucky enough to travel to Saudi Arabia will also be able to witness all the champions performing and sample the spectacular events that Riyadh Season has to offer.” 

Spencer Brown of Goldstar said: “It’s been a pleasure working with His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, George and Frank Warren and Tyson Fury; plus all the other promoters and managers from around the world who worked to get us to this point. It’s going to be an unbelievable night of boxing in Riyadh on 23 December. A real present for fans all around the globe.”

Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Sport, said: “We are delighted to be returning to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Riyadh Season and for what will ultimately be a historic event for our sport. I would like to thank His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for providing us with this fantastic opportunity. 

Anthony Joshua needs no introduction. He has his sights set firmly on becoming a three -time world heavyweight champion and I believe you will witness yet another memorable performance from AJ on December 23 when he faces Otto Wallin. Both Dmitry Bivol and Jai Opateia have chances to showcase their world class talents on a major stage and we look forward to exploring big fights in the Kingdom for both boxers with Queensberry, Goldstar and the NEC in the near future. Bivol will once more underline why he is one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters on the planet when he collides with Lyndon Arthur and reigning IBF cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia will undoubtedly deliver an incredible, destructive display against Ellis Zorro. I cannot wait. It will be a special spectacle for fight fans all over the world and an extravaganza not to be missed.” 

The “Day of Reckoning” comes after the “Battle of the Baddest”, which was held on October 28 during the opening of Riyadh Season 2023, in which Tyson Fury defeated Francis Ngannou. 

The fourth edition of Riyadh Season, themed “Big Time,” offers many entertainment options and experiences. It continues to attract visitors from across the globe to Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, during the winter months, providing them with the opportunity to partake in thousands of concerts, exhibitions, and other distinctive entertainment events. Notable celebrities and prominent international brands contribute to the grandeur of this occasion. 

Tickets for events and experiences in the zone can be reserved through the WeBook application by accessing the following link: http://onelink.to/wbkapp

##The End## 

About Riyadh Season 
Saudi Arabia’s capital embraces one of the world’s biggest entertainment events every year during winter. Since the launch of the Riyadh Season in 2019, the festival has welcomed visitors from all over the world to experience thousands of concerts, sporting activities, and other unique cultural events. 

(Nov. 15, 2023) — Former world title challenger Denzel Bentley will defend his British middleweight title against the unbeaten Nathan Heaney this Saturday, Nov. 18 in the 12-round main event at the AO Arena in Manchester, England. 

In the 12-round co-feature, unbeaten British featherweight phenom Nick Ball steps up to face former world champion Isaac Dogboe in a WBC world title eliminator.

Promoted by Queensberry, Bentley-Heaney, Ball-Dogboe, and a loaded undercard will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ starting at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT.

Bentley (18-2-1, 15 KOs) went 13-0 before drawing against Mark Heffron in September 2020. The 28-year-old then captured the British middleweight crown before suffering a stoppage defeat to Felix Cash. Bentley bounced back with three wins, including a fourth-round TKO victory against Marcus Morrison in September 2022. Two months later, he made an unsuccessful bid for the WBO world title against Janibek Alimkhanuly. Bentley returns following a first-round knockout win versus Kieran Smith in April. Heaney (17-0, 6 KOs) is a six-year pro who is coming off two wins against Jack Flatley. The 34-year-old will look to remain unbeaten as he attempts to derail Bentley’s plans for a second title shot.

Ball (18-0, 11 KOs) debuted as a pro in June 2017 and captured his first regional title in April 2022 with a sixth-round TKO against Isaac Lowe on the Tyson Fury-Dillian Whyte undercard. He has since won three fights via stoppage, including a 12^th-round TKO against Ludumo Lamati in May. Dogboe (24-3, 15 KOs) burst onto the championship scene when he dethroned then-WBO junior featherweight king Jessie Magdaleno in April 2018. He lost the belt to Emanuel Navarrete in December of that year and, following an unsuccessful rematch, moved up to featherweight. Dogboe is coming off a decision loss to Robeisy Ramirez in April for the WBO featherweight world title.

IN OTHER STREAMING ACTION:

Liam Davies (14-0, 6 KOs) vs. Vincenzo La Femina (13-0, 7 KOs) 12 rounds, Davies’ European Union Junior Featherweight Title

Solomon Dacres (7-0, 2 KOs) vs. Michael Webster (9-0, 6 KOs), 10 rounds, Dacres’ English Heavyweight Title

Ekow Essuman (19-0, 7 KOs) vs. Harry Scatff (12-2, 3 KOs), 12 rounds, Essuman’s British, Commonwealth and IBF European Welterweight Titles

Hannah Rankin (13-6, 3 KOs) vs. Ema Kozin (23-1-1, 12 KOs), 10 rounds, Vacant WBC and WBO Junior Middleweight World Titles

Nathaniel Collins (13-0, 7 KOs) vs. Zak Miller (13-0, 3 KOs), 12 rounds, Collins’ British and Commonwealth Featherweight Titles

(Nov. 15, 2023) — O’Shaquie Foster, the reigning WBC junior lightweight world champion, has signed a multi-fight promotional contract with Top Rank.

A native of Orange, Texas, who trains out of Houston, Foster will make his Top Rank on ESPN debut in early 2024.

“O’Shaquie Foster is a supremely talented champion in the prime of his career,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “We are thrilled to welcome him to Top Rank, and I eagerly await his next world title defense.”

Foster said, “I’m excited to be part of the Top Rank and ESPN family. Top Rank has shaped the careers of many of the greatest fighters whom I look up to even to this day, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to fight on ESPN. I can’t wait to step into the ring and show that I am the best fighter in the world.”

“O’Shaquie Foster has firmly established himself as a reigning world champion and a formidable force in the ring. Joining forces with Top Rank and ESPN will provide ‘Shock’ the platform needed to showcase his exceptional skill set and evolve into the star he is destined to become,” said Keith Mills, Foster’s manager. “This collaboration with Top Rank marks a crucial moment in Foster’s career, as he persists in shaping his legacy within the sport, captivating audiences, and solidifying his status as one of the very best talents in professional boxing.”

Foster (21-2, 12 KOs) went 8-0 in his first three years in the paid ranks before losing a pair of close decisions in a four-fight span. After nearly 18 months out of the ring, Foster returned a changed fighter and resurrected his career with the help of Mills and head trainer Bobby Benton. Foster has reeled off 11 straight wins, a run that gained momentum following his nationally televised 2018 victory over the previously unbeaten Jon Fernandez.

In February, Foster fought Rey Vargas for the vacant WBC world title and entered the fight as the betting underdog. Foster dominated the championship rounds and won a unanimous decision. Title defense number one came last month in Cancun, Mexico, and Foster had to turn back the fierce challenge of Eduardo “Rocky” Hernandez. The 11th round was a Round of the Year-type stanza that saw Foster stagger Hernandez on multiple occasions. Trailing on two of the three judges’ cards entering the 12th, Foster dropped Hernandez twice to secure the stoppage with 22 seconds remaining.

LAS VEGAS, Nevada (Nov. 14, 2023) — Shakur Stevenson is ready for his opportunity to become a three-weight champ.

Stevenson (20-0, 10 KOs) and Dominican slugger Edwin De Los Santos (16-1, 14 KOs) will collide for the vacant WBC lightweight world title this Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs).

Stevenson-De Los Santos and Navarrete-Conceição will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (5:40 p.m. ET/2:40 p.m. PT) will feature a battle between unbeaten welterweights as well as a host of emerging prospects.

Undefeated standouts Brian Norman Jr. (24-0, 19 KOs) and Quinton Randall (13-0-1, 3 KOs) will collide in a 10-round welterweight battle. 

In an eight-round bantamweight duel between two of Las Vegas’ top prospects, Floyd “Cashflow” Diaz (9-0, 3 KOs) and Max Ornelas (15-1-1, 5 KOs) will battle for intra-city bragging rights,

U.S. Olympian Troy Isley (10-0, 4 KOs) steps up in class in an eight-round middleweight fight against Mexico’s Vladimir Hernandez (14-5, 6 KOs).

Top prospects Emiliano Fernando Vargas (7-0, 6 KOs) and Hugo Micallef (8-0, 1 KO)will also see action in separate six-rounders.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Sampson Boxing, tickets are on sale now via AXS.com.

At Tuesday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Shakur Stevenson

“This means the world to me. I’ve been grinding my whole life for these moments. I’m back in the same situation I was before, fighting for another vacant title. I’m just here to do what I got to do. I’m focused. I’m ready. Showtime on Thursday.”

“My performance is based on how I feel. I’m performing for myself. I know that if I come in at my best, I will be hard to deal with for everybody.”

“He’s a fighter. You can tell that he has a lot of heart. It may work against him on Thursday night. But I definitely respect the fact that he took the fight.”

“This means a lot to me. I hope it’s a sold-out crowd. I want all the people to tune in. I’m focused and ready.”

Edwin De Los Santos

“Like I’ve always said, I’m not here to hesitate, I’m here to fight. As soon as we heard about the fight, we accepted the opportunity.”

“This is something that is super exciting for me. All boxers dream of becoming a world champion. My family is very happy, and I know that with the help of God I am going to be victorious, and the win will change my life.”

“On November 16, you will see an upset. Don’t be surprised.”

Emanuel Navarrete

“Robson represents an enormous threat in this fight. His style is very difficult. He’s a fighter who has an Olympic style. That makes it difficult for anyone with my style. But we worked on that. We worked on that in order to make the fight easier for me in that regard.”

“I like being active. I like working. I always like fighting, and I take the opportunities that appear in my career. So, basically, I just take advantage of it.”

Robson Conceição

“I heard of this {fight} the day before {a scheduled fight in September}, and I knew it was a big opportunity. And so, I was left very happy, and I accepted immediately. The more difficult things are for me, the better. So, I accepted immediately.”

“It’s tough to get three title opportunities. But that’s what happened in the amateurs. It took me three attempts to become an Olympic champion. So, the same will happen in professional boxing.”

Brian Norman Jr.

“I carry {my father’s name}. He knows the ins and outs, how the game goes. It hasn’t really been hard on me because he’s prepared me for everything. He prepared me mentally. I’ve been watching and studying greats since forever. It’s all I do, still to this day. I love the greats. I love the legends.”

“I’m not going to try and rush the knockout or predict the knockout, but I will be pushing the pace and pushing the fight. I’m going in to do damage.”

“I love this situation. I’m fighting in Vegas. I got the perfect opponent. Like he just said, he has the mindset to go in on Thursday now. This is my test. This is the test God gave me. I’m good at passing tests. This is what I’ve been doing my whole life.”

Quinton Randall

“He’s gonna get his ass whooped. {Speaking to Norman) You’re gonna get your ass whooped.”

“I’ve been passing tests my whole life. You’re a child to me. I’m gonna beat you like one.”

“You’re a bum. The people you have fought are bums. You’ve got 25 wins of pad work on your record.”

Floyd Diaz

“You’re going to see a little different Floyd. Not only am I back and have a new hairdo, but I’m going to show different things ya’ll haven’t seen yet. But it’s still the same Floyd. I want ya’ll to tune in. It’s going to be fireworks.”

Troy Isley

“Vladimir {Hernandez} is coming to fight. He’s going to bring the fight to me. So, I’m going to show some stuff that the world hasn’t seen. Winning this fight means I’m a contender.”

Emiliano Fernando Vargas

“My father {former world champion Fernando Vargas} always says that you stop growing when you stop learning. Even my father is still learning things. I’m learning things as we go on. In order to be the best in the sport, I have to continue growing.”

Abdullah Mason

“I’m feeling amazing. I had a great camp. We’ve just been keeping it going since my last fight. I’ve been pretty busy and staying in the gym. I feel like I’m constantly getting better and stronger. As time goes on, we’ll just keep getting better and better.”

Hugo Micallef

“Expect fireworks. I’m a quick boxer. I’m a fast boxer. I’m very technical. I would like to be recognized as one of the most technical boxers in some years. So, expect fireworks and the knockout, I hope.”

Thursday, November 16

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)

Shakur Stevenson vs. Edwin De Los Santos 12 rounds, Vacant WBC Lightweight World Title

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Robson Conceição, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight World Title 
 

ESPN+ (5:40 p.m. ET/2:40 p.m. PT)
Brian Norman Jr. vs. Quinton Randall, 10 rounds, WBO International Welterweight Title

Giovanni Sarchioto vs. Lucas de Abreu, 6 rounds, super middleweight 

LAS VEGAS – November 14, 2023 – Hard-hitting IBF 140-pound world champion Subriel Matias, unbeaten top contender Shohjahon Ergashev, WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Hector Luis Garcia and mandatory challenger Lamont Roach previewed their respective SHOWTIME PPV undercard world title fights during a virtual press conference Tuesday before they step into the ring 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 Matias defending his world title against Ergashev, while Garcia puts his belt on the line against Roach in the telecast opener. The card is headlined by undefeated two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez defending his Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title against unbeaten two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade.

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 Tuesday:

SUBRIEL MATIAS

“My preparations have been great. I’m healthy and we’re heading into the home stretch before the fight. I can tell you this, the fight won’t reach the final bell because if you look at the way both of us like to fight and how our fights have gone, you can expect a knockout.

“I am not the same fighter as I was in 2020 when I lost my only fight. I am way better now. I was not focused back in 2020. Now, I am ready to show the fans that the champion is here and I’m ready to put on a great show.

“My experience is going to be his downfall. This is going to be like a game to me. Let’s see what happens after the sixth round. I will leave it there.

“One of us is going to fall. I promise you that. One of us is going to kiss the mat.

“I can consider myself the best at 140 pounds, but I would rather show it. If this is one more step on the ladder towards greatness, I will gladly take that step to get to where I want to be.

“I have the confidence in myself to win this fight after what I have done in training camp. But to say that I am a big favorite would be assuming a lot of things considering that boxing is unpredictable. I’m not going to underestimate my opponent. I am going to go out there and bear the fruits of my preparation.

“I have a great opportunity to come back to Las Vegas and redeem myself and fix the mistake I made in 2020.

“The goal is to unify next. It doesn’t matter against who. I am going to defend my title and then I’ll be ready for whoever comes my way.

“I am going to promise you fireworks. Just look at our records. 19-1 with 19 KOs for me. 23-0 with 20 KOs for him. What do you think is going to happen? It’s going to be awesome. Plus, I’m the pride of Puerto Rico and I have to make my country proud.”

SHOHJAHON ERGASHEV

“It’s been a long journey to get here and I’ve been training for this fight since the summer. I had a great camp. Even though this is my first title fight, I’ve been ready physically and mentally for a long time. I can’t wait to get to Las Vegas and get the fireworks started. People are going to see the world class talent that I am.

“I have a lot of respect for Matias. He’s a good fighter, a big puncher and is truly a good world champion. But understand that I’m not coming here from the library. I’m coming here with a big surprise, a Thanksgiving gift for Subriel Matias. I have a lot of respect for what he’s done inside the ring, but the belt is coming home with me to Uzbekistan.

“He says for me to wait and see what happens after the sixth round? Well, let’s see if he makes it to the sixth round before he worries about that.

“I’ve fought on SHOBOX, but people have not seen my true potential. Matias is an excellent fighter and it’s going to be an exciting fight because he likes to engage. That will give me the opportunity to showcase my skills and raise my game to the next level.

“I plan on using all of my skills to my advantage. I have physical strength and boxing skills and experience both professional and as an amateur. All of this is going to pay off big time.

“My country is supporting me and I am the first fighter from Uzbekistan to challenge for a title in this weight class. I feel the pressure, but I’m also very excited. This is an interesting fight for me because most of my opponents have run from me because they were scared of my power. Matias is a very good fighter who is very aggressive and likes to come forward. This will be a fun fight for the fans.”

HECTOR LUIS GARCIA

“I feel in tip top shape. I fought at the beginning of the year and I feel like I am ready to go on November 25. You can expect the best of me, like always. I am going to focus on not letting that loss get the best of me. I am going to focus on being positive, having positive thoughts and going after the win.

“I learned a lot from the Gervonta Davis fight. But there is only one Gervonta Davis, so I know that I am not going to lose like that again. I always take the positives out of a fight and having fought on a pay-per-view main event allowed me to grow and I learned a lot from the entire experience.

“Congratulations to Lamont on his mindset. I’m glad that he has such confidence and such a positive mindset that he thinks he’s going to stop me. Good for you. But I talk inside the ring, not outside of it. You will see.

“Lamont Roach, like most American fighters, likes to talk. That’s his thing. My responsibility is to defend my title and exit the ring as the champion. That’s what I’m going to focus on. I prefer to do my talking inside the ring and that’s exactly what I’m going to do.

“More than anything, I’m going to prove that what happened against Gervonta Davis was a fluke and it’s never going to happen again. No excuses.

“Lamont will not be the toughest opponent that I’ve ever had, not by a long shot. Roger Gutierrez is better than him. Chris Colbert was way better than him. Lamont has earned this opportunity and I don’t take that away from him, but Gutierrez, Colbert and, of course, Gervonta Davis are all better than him. I don’t consider him my toughest opponent at all.

“I feel equally fine at either 130 or 135 pounds. The plan is to defend the title on November 25 and then hopefully unify afterwards. Then, if the opportunity comes to fight at 135 then I will gladly do so. But the goal right now is to defend the title.

“The past is in the past and now I’m ready to redeem myself and go for it all.”

LAMONT ROACH

“Training camp has been going great. Words can’t explain how hard I have been working and how hard I have been striving to achieve my goals. On November 25, fans are going to see fireworks. They are going to see the best of me and they are going to see the demise of Hector Luis Garcia.

“My second time in a world title fight is going to be different because I learned a lot in the first one against Jamel Herring. I took a lot from that fight and I kept the ball rolling as you can see. I’m riding a win streak that I don’t plan on stopping for a long time. I give Garcia credit for being the champion but he’s in my way and I don’t think he’s on my level.

“I’m from the trenches and I stand by what I said about how I’m going to stop him. That’s what I’m here for. I was in the front row for his fight against Tank. I saw Tank take the fight out of him and I know I can do the same thing. And it might be quick.

“Fans are going to be saying that I’m the best boxer at 130 pounds and I will continue to prove that after November 25 as well.

“I like that he said no excuses. That’s what I like to hear. There are no excuses on my end. That’s the name of my gym, No Excuse.

“I fought for my first world title when I was 24 years old. I was young and since then I’ve only gotten better. I capitalized on it and added to my game. I’m better mentally, physically and psychologically. Every aspect of my game has been raised extremely high. There won’t be any excuses. For him to say that Roger Gutierrez is a better fighter than me is extremely disrespectful to my skill set. I hope he’s not training as if Roger Gutierrez is better than me.

“SHOWTIME PPV is going to showcase the next star. Make sure to tune in. I think Hector is the perfect dancing partner for me to get my shine on.”

#         #         #

ABOUT BENAVIDEZ VS. ANDRADE

Benavidez 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 Jose Benavidez Jr. in a 10-round non-title WBC special event in the co-main event. Plus, hard-hitting IBF 140-pound world champion Subriel Matias faces unbeaten mandatory challenger Shohjahon Ergashev and WBA Super Featherweight World Champion Hector Luis Garcia 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.

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (November 14, 2023): Golden Boy Promotions announced today the signing of the undefeated and current WBO Intercontinental Super Lightweight Champion Arnold Barboza Jr. (28-10 KOs). Barboza Jr. will participate on the DAZN broadcast of the Ryan Garcia vs. Oscar Duarte card in Houston, Texas at Toyota Center on Saturday, December 2.

“I’m ready for the big fights,” said Arnold Barboza Jr. “ I’m ready for the big events, I’m ready to fight in LA where I was born and raised. I feel that Golden Boy and Oscar will deliver this for me and they stepped up and gave me what I asked for.”

“The mold of a Golden Boy fighter is talent and hunger to become a world champion, which are all the qualities that Arnold Barboza Jr. possesses,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “We will position him to fight for a World Title Belt in the very near future. We’re the best in the business at building the next generation of stars and Arnold Barboza Jr. will put the 140 pound division on notice.”

“Value is not determined by those who set the price, value is determined by those who choose to pay it,” said Rick Mirigian, Manager to Barboza Jr. “Golden Boy has placed a high value on Barboza and wasted no time to show it.”
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A Los Angeles native, 31-year-old Arnold Barboza Jr. made his professional debut as a welterweight on June 14, 2013, scoring a six-round unanimous decision victory against Gustavo Lopez. Since then, he has quickly dispatched a number of tough rivals and has climbed the ladder to become ranked No. 1 by the WBO, No.6 by Ring Magazine and No. 4 by the WBC. In his decade-long career, Barboza held various regional titles including the WBO International Super Lightweight Title (2020-2021) and the NABF Super Lightweight Title (2018-2019). His most notable wins include an unanimous decision victory against former World Champion Jose Pedraza, a unanimous decision victory against Danielito Zorrilla, a dramatic unanimous decision win against World Title Contender Alex Saucedo, and a fight that went the distance against Antonio Moran.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy.

LIVERPOOL, UK (November 14, 2023) – Two-weight world champion Natasha Jonas will defend 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. 

Jonas (14-2-1, 9 KOs) will be making a first defence of the IBF crown she claimed with an emphatic stoppage win over Canadian Kandi Wyatt earlier this year,  having previously unified the WBC, WBO and IBF World Super Welterweight Titles. 

Standing in the opposite corner will be U.S. star Mayer (19-1, 5 KOs), a fellow Olympian and the former IBF and WBO World Super Featherweight Champion. The Los Angeles native was one of the stars of BOXXER’s historic women’s night last year, and after capturing the WBC interim World Lightweight Title earlier this year, Mayer will be moving up in weight once again.

Newly crowned British and Commonwealth Champion Jack Cullen also returns to action in Liverpool defending his belts against former foe Zak Chelli. Cullen (22-4-1, 10 KOs) scored a memorable third-round TKO win over Mark Heffron in September to claim the British and Commonwealth titles. ‘Little Leaver’s Meat Cleaver’ will now square off against former English Champion Chelli (14-2-1, 7 KOs) in a repeat of their all-action 2020 contest that ended in a draw.

Natasha Jonas said: “I’m so excited to be fighting back in Liverpool in my first headline show and in the biggest fight of my career so far. It’s my fifth world title fight with BOXXER, in my backyard and I’m ready for it. It’s Mikaela Mayer, she stretches above and beyond the UK shores. ‘Miss GB’ versus ‘Miss USA’ and may the best woman win!”  

Mikaela Mayer said, “These are the types of matchups boxing needs. I am feeling better than ever at my new weight and confident that 2024 is when I take it all back.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO, Ben Shalom, said: “2024 promises to be a monumental year for BOXXER and Sky Sports, and we’re thrilled to kick things off with another massive night for women’s boxing as Natasha Jonas defends her World Title against Mikaela Mayer in a matchup set to showcase the pinnacle of the sport. Natasha and Mikaela are two fantastic athletes – both former Olympians and world champions – from either side of the Atlantic, ready to put it all on the line to secure their legacy.” 

“Mikaela Mayer is beloved in the UK, and we are thrilled that she will get an opportunity to become a two-weight champion against a sensational fighter in Natasha Jonas,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “These are two of the best pound-for-pound females in boxing and a great fight to kick off the 2024 schedule.”

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

Sign up for tickets alerts for Natasha Jonas vs Mikaela Mayer via BOXXER.com 

Toronto – UFC^® returns to Toronto with a thrilling world championship doubleheader, headlined by a highly anticipated middleweight championship bout between Sean Strickland and No. 2 ranked contender Dricus Du Plessis. Also, a new women’s bantamweight champion will be crowned when No. 2 ranked contender Raquel Pennington battles Mayra Bueno Silva.

UFC^® 297: STRICKLAND vs. DU PLESSIS takes place Saturday, January 20 at Scotiabank Arena, with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on Pay-Per-View. The prelims will be available on Sportsnet and TVA Sports at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The early prelims will kick off at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on UFC Fight Pass.

UFC^® 297: STRICKLAND vs. DU PLESSIS tickets will go on sale Friday, November 17 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at ticketmaster.ca. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, November 15 at 10 a.m. ET via the website ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, November 16 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Media members wishing to apply for fight week credentials may sign up here.

Strickland (28-5, fighting out of Corona, Calif.) is coming off his stunning UFC middleweight championship win over Israel Adesanya in September. A relentless striker, he also holds wins over Jack Hermansson, Uriah Hall and Brendan Allen. Strickland now intends to secure a successful title defense by becoming the first fighter to defeat Du Plessis in the UFC.

Du Plessis (20-2, fighting out of Pretoria, South Africa) plans to dethrone Strickland by earning his ninth consecutive victory. Unbeaten since 2019, he holds thrilling stoppage wins against Robert Whittaker, Derek Brunson and Darren Till. Du Plessis now looks for another highlight-reel finish to achieve his dream of winning UFC gold.

Former title challenger Pennington (15-8, fighting out of Colorado Springs, Colo.) plans to stop Bueno Silva to claim the bantamweight belt. Currently riding a five-fight win streak, she holds memorable victories over Macy Chiasson, Miesha Tate and Ketlen Vieira. Pennington now has her sights set on a career-defining performance.

Bueno Silva (10-2-1 1NC, fighting out of Uberlandia, Minas Gerais, Brazil) hopes to add her name to the list of Brazilian UFC champions. A talented grappler, she has delivered notable submission wins against Lina Lansberg, Stephanie Egger and Mara Romero Borella. Bueno Silva now intends to continue her unbeaten streak by stopping Pennington to take home the title.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 13 ranked welterweight contender Neil Magny (28-12, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) looks to halt the momentum of surging Canadian Mike Malott (10-1-1, fighting out of Burlington, Ont.)
• A pivotal light heavyweight contenders’ bout will see former champion and No. 4 ranked Jan Blachowicz (29-10-1, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) rematch No. 5 Aleksandar Rakic (14-3, fighting out of Vienna, Austria)
• No. 4 ranked featherweight contender Arnold Allen (19-2, fighting out of Trimley St. Martin, Suffolk, England) squares off with undefeated No. 9 Movsar Evloev (17-0, fighting out of Sunzha, Republic of Ingushetia, Russia)
• Former light heavyweight title challenger and current No. 13 ranked contender Dominick Reyes (12-4, fighting out of Victoriaville, California, USA) locks horns with rising Carlos Ulberg (10-1, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand)
• Two-time The Ultimate Fighter winner Brad Katona (15-2, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland by way of Winnipeg, Man.) collides with Garrett Armfield (9-3, fighting out of Kansas City, Missouri, USA) in a bantamweight bout
• No. 14 ranked middleweight contender Chris Curtis (30-10 1NC, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nevada, USA by way of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA) takes on heavy-handed Marc-Andre Barriault (16-6 1NC, fighting out of Boca Raton, Florida, USA by way of Gatineau, Que.)
• Charles Jourdain (15-6-1, fighting out of Beloeil, Que.) meets Sean Woodson (10-1-1, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) in an exciting featherweight tilt
• Dana White’s Contender Series contract winners rematch when Serhiy Sidey (10-1, fighting out of Burlington, Ont.) faces Ramon Taveras (9-2, fighting out of Duval County, Florida, USA) at bantamweight
• Submission ace Gillian Robertson (12-8, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Florida, USA by way of Niagara Falls, Ont.) meets Polyana Viana (13-6, fighting out of São Geraldo do Araguaia, Pará, Brazil) at flyweight
• Hometown flyweight Malcolm Gordon (14-7, fighting out of Toronto, Ont.) takes on Jimmy Flick (16-6, fighting out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA)
• Yohan Lainesse (9-2, fighting out of St-Bruno, Que.) meets Sam Patterson (10-2-1, fighting out of Watford, England) in a battle of welterweight Dana White’s Contender Series signees

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

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 243 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About Scotiabank Arena

Scotiabank Arena is Canada’s premier sports and entertainment venue and home to the NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs Hockey Club and the NBA’s Toronto Raptors Basketball Club. Owned and operated by Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), Scotiabank Arena opened its doors in February 1999 and has been recognized with dozens of industry awards. Scotiabank Arena is often ranked the #1 Canadian arena, is often within the top 10 in the world for live event ticket sales and has also hosted over 80 million fans at over 5,000 events including multiple NHL and NBA playoff runs, hub city for the Eastern Conference teams during the return of the 2020 NHL season, 2019 WWE SummerSlam, 2017 Invictus Games, the 2016 NHL World Cup of Hockey, 2016 NBA All-Star Weekend, 2015 IIHF World U20 Championship, 2000 NHL All-Star Game and looking ahead to the 2024 NHL All-Star Game.

PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. (Nov. 13, 2023) — The heavyweight division’s fastest-rising prospect looks to close out 2023 in crushing fashion. Richard Torrez Jr., the Olympic silver medalist from Tulare, California, will test himself against the cagey Curtis Harper on Saturday, Dec. 9 at Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines, Florida.

This will be the first scheduled eight-rounder for Torrez, who has ended all seven of his professional outings in three rounds or less.
 
Torrez-Harper will stream LIVE & exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ before the ESPN-televised doubleheader (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) featuring Robeisy Ramirez’s WBO featherweight world title defense against Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza and undefeated junior middleweight sensation Xander Zayas versus Spain’s Jorge Fortea.

“Curtis Harper is a tough, experienced heavyweight, and I look forward to the challenge,” Torrez said. “He has been in with some of the division’s best fighters, and we felt the time was right to step up and take on someone of his caliber.”

Torrez (7-0, 7 KOs) shined at the Tokyo Olympics in the summer of 2021 and turned pro the following March with a second-round stoppage over Allen Melson in Fresno, California. He went 4-0 in 2022 and opened his second professional year with a second-round knockout over James Bryant in February. An injury kept Torrez out of the ring for six months, but he returned with a first-round stoppage over Willie Jake Jr. in August and a second-round blitzing of Tyrrell Anthony Herndon in October. Harper (14-10, 9 KOs) is a durable veteran who has gone the distance with numerous top prospects and contenders, including Chris Arreola, Brandon Moore, and Guido Vianello.

Liam Paro told Matchroom’s Flash Knockdown podcast that he will show he belongs at the top level when he meets Montana Love at Chase Center in San Francisco on Saturday December 9, live on DAZN PPV in North America and on DAZN worldwide, where Regis Prograis defends his WBC World Super-Lightweight title against Devin Haney.
 
Paro (23-0 14 KOs) returns to the ring after over a year on the sidelines since his spectacular first round KO of Brock Jarvis in Brisbane in October 2022, and is itching to get back into action after injury ruled him out of two fights in the first half of the year, the last and most notable of those being a World title shot against Prograis in New Orleans in June.
 
Paro is back to full fitness and has been on fire in training camp in Las Vegas, where he found himself caught up in a Twitter storm around his sparring with pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson. The 27 year old adhered to the fighters code and did not go into specifics of the work, but said he took away real belief that those are the names he belongs with – and will prove it on December 9 against Love.
 
“It’s sparring at the end of the day,” said Paro. “We got good rounds in, but mark my words, I belong at the top level, I can mix it with them confidently. I appreciate the work with Shakur, it’s great work and a good camp to work with, but I belong there for sure. 
 
“I want the winner of Haney-Prograis. I think Devin beats him, I think the way to give him trouble is fast feet like Vasiliy Lomachenko, but in his last fight Regis’ looked stuck in the mud. He’s going to be fit and ready though as this is a massive fight, as big as it gets, but I think Devin edges this one out. Haney vs. Paro rolls off the tongue, but I am not looking past Montana, I know I need to get the job done there first.
 
“I know that when I get the job done, I’ll be headlining big shows like this one against big names, it just motivates me so much. It’s what you dream of as a young kid and now it’s starting to become a reality. It’s unbelievable. I’m here, but I want more. The harder the task, the more I perform, I always rise to the occasion. I love it. That’s what makes a champion, performing under pressure, I really thrive on that.”
 
Joining Paro on the latest episode of Flash Knockdown are O’Shaquie Foster, who reviews his epic fight with Rocky Hernandez and eyes a unification with Joe Cordina next, Josh Warrington, who reflects on his clash with Leigh Wood, and there’s another Mike Costello gem from the memory bank.
 

QUINCY, Mass. (November 13, 2023) – Hometown favorite Kendrick “Peppa” Bell, Jr. (21-1-3, 12 KOs) will be fighting for his third title on Saturday night, December 9, as he takes on veteran Venezuelan fighter Heber Rondon (20-15,13 KOs) in an eight-round match for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Light Heavyweight Championship.

“Pandemonium at the Palladium 2”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com from Worcester, Massachusetts.. GCP has also partnered with Project New Hope, a Worcester-based charity that supports veterans and their families.

Ball, 31, is coming off a dominant eight-round unanimous decision (80-72 X 3) over Oscar Riojas (28-16-3), headlining a show at Polar Park in Worcester. The Dec. 9^th fight will be his sixth at the Palladium.

“I like the Palladium,” Ball said. “I’m comfortable there  because I’m right at home, only down the street from my house. I love fighting at home. It’s a great feeling to be in front of my city and every time I fight there, I feel more and more confident to say this is my city. I’ve put on a dominant performance every time I’ve fought there. and this will be my third title I’ve won in Worcester. I love fighting in front of my family and family, I still feel there are people in Worcester that haven’t seen me fight, so every time I fight here is definitely an opportunity for them to catch me and make them see why I say this is my city”

A former World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedelatin Super Welterweight Champion, Rondon is a southpaw who has been in tough with the likes of Fernando Vargas, Bek Nunmaganbet, Elvis Figueroa and Jose Armando Resendiz. Rondon is capable of upsetting his opponent. In 2020, Rondo won an 11-round unanimous decision in Venezuela against 14-0 Brahian Jose Medina for the aforementioned Fedelatin title.  

“I know my opponent is a tough lefty,” Ball noted. “I fought a lefty in my last fight at Polar Park. Lefties are a little tricky, but I know how to adjust in fights and we’re going to work on fighting a lefty in training, so I’ll be ready.”

Ball is hoping an impressive win will open doors for him in terms of fights on a higher level outside of New England.

“This fight is for another belt,” Bell concluded, :but it’s not the main focus. It definitely helps get my ranking up and attracts people to see me fight even more. I’m hoping this fight will open big doors for me for my next fight. I want to get a big money fight. It’s time I get my shot at a money fight. I’m 21-1-3 with 12 knockouts. My only loss came in 2018. I haven’t lost since and that says a lot. I’ve been active in the ring, so I deserve a money fight. A lot of people don’t know but in most of these fights, I haven’t made big money, close to nothing. I still have a regular job to survive. I struggle like everyone else if not more sometimes because my goal is to get the big money fights. That’s what I’m hoping for in 2024.”

Another Worcester fighter, junior middleweight Khiary“Too Sharp” Gray (17-6, 13 KOs), who will be fighting for the first time in two years, faces veteran Jimmy “The Quiet Storm” Williams (18-13-2, 6 KOs) in a six-round match that could steal the show.

“Having Kendrick on the show was a no-brainer for me,” GCP president Chris Traietti commented. “The goal is to make this the biggest Granite Chin show to date and since the show is in Worcester, we had to put on some big names in Worcester. Kendrick and Khiary are on that list. The Palladium is going to be packed on December 10^th and everybody there will get a chance to see Kendrick win his third professional title.”  

The stacked “Pandemonium at the Palladium 2,” card also finds International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas Super Middleweight Champion Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (9-0, 7 KOs), of Pittsfield, MA., in action against an opponent to be determined.

Card subject to change. Additional fights and fighters will soon be announced.

Tickets are on sale and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

X (Twitter): @Granite_Chin

LAS VEGAS (Nov. 13, 2023) – Pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson (20-0, 10 KOs) and Dominican slugger Edwin De Los Santos (16-1, 14 KOs) hosted their public workouts today ahead of their vacant WBC lightweight world title showdown this Thursday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. 
 
In the world championship co-feature, Mexico’s Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete (38-1, 31 KOs) defends his WBO junior lightweight strap against Brazilian two-time world title challenger Robson Conceição (17-2, 8 KOs).
 
Stevenson-De Los Santos and Navarrete-Conceição will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.
 
At Monday’s media workout, this is what the fighters had to say.
 

Shakur Stevenson

“I can’t wait. It’s going to be very exciting. You’ve got the tough Edwin De Los Santos, but I’m here to whoop his a**!”

“We can’t think about what comes after. I’m not worried about after. We’ve got a job to do Thursday night. I’m coming here to get my belt.”

“I think that Edwin is a good fighter. I think he’s more of a boxer than what he’s trying to act like. So, he’s going to try to move around. And I’m going to figure him out by the fourth round.”

Edwin De Los Santos

“We are not here to hesitate. We are here to fight. We accepted the fight, and we are going for it. I think at one point I was being underestimated. But now he has accepted the reality that he is going to have a very tough fight.”

“I feel very good because it is one of my dreams to be in Las Vegas and fight for a world title, which will happen this November 16.”

Emanuel Navarrete

“I’m happy to be here with all of you and because you are all joining me at this public workout. And well, it’s going to be one more fight. I’m going to defend my title at 130 pounds.”

“Obviously, we know who I am fighting. We know he is a real fighter. He is very strong and it will be difficult. But like always we are going to defend the title with the heart of a Mexican warrior.”

“Being in Las Vegas is a dream for many athletes, not just boxers. I think it’s the epicenter of the most important shows in the world. I think that being here for me is an honor, and I feel very grateful to be in front of all of you.”

Robson Conceição

“The day before what was going to be my last fight, I learned about this very good opportunity. I accepted it immediately. My team and I decided not to fight in order to better prepare for this fight on November 16th.”

“It’s a very important moment for my career to be in this huge event. There are many good athletes who are participating in this event. We have Shakur Stevenson. We have Emanuel Navarrete, whom I admire a lot. He is a great champion. But this is my third opportunity. In the Olympic Games, I was able to win on my third attempt. And I will do the same in this third chance at a world title.”
 

Thursday, November 16

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT)

Shakur Stevenson vs. Edwin De Los Santos 12 rounds, Vacant WBC Lightweight World Title

Emanuel Navarrete vs. Robson Conceição, 12 rounds, Navarrete’s WBO Junior Lightweight World Title 
 

ESPN+ (5:40 p.m. ET/2:40 p.m. PT)
Brian Norman Jr. vs. Quinton Randall, 10 rounds, WBO International Welterweight Title

Giovanni Sarchioto vs. Lucas de Abreu, 6 rounds, super middleweight