STERLING AND SUMMERS COLLIDE IN BRITISH LIGHT-HEAVYWEIGHT TITLE ELIMINATOR ON DeGALE-EUBANK JR. CARD

London (25 January 2019) Andre Sterling and Ricky Summers will meet in a British Light-Heavyweight Title Eliminator on the stacked O2 show on Saturday 23rd February.

Sterling versus Summers adds to an action-packed evening, promoted by Poxon Sports for Premier Boxing Champion (PBC), headlined with the long-awaited clash between bitter rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr., the explosive showdown between Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Joe Joyce and Former World Champion Bermane Stiverne, the return of Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby and the UK debut of Marsellos Wilder, exclusively LIVE on ITV Box Office.

28-year-old Andre Sterling’s career has been going places fast. In his last fight out in November 2018, the New Cross fighter was crowned Southern Area Light-Heavyweight Champion after outpointing the tough Kirk Garvey at The York Hall, Bethnal Green.

That career best win put Sterling forward for his British Title Eliminator opportunity and he knows a victory could land him a dream shot at the prized Lonsdale belt.

The former Fitzroy Lodge amateur is now unbeaten in nine fights with four finishing inside the distance since turning pro in April 2017.

This will be the first time Sterling steps out onto the biggest of stages at The O2, but he’s in a bullish mood and is ready to grasp his golden chance.

Sterling said, “This opportunity is massive for me and I’m grateful. I’m feeling good, happy with my close-knit team, and I’m having a superb training camp. My sparring sessions have been great, and my weight is just where I want it to be. This is the moment I’ve been waiting for and I’m ready. It’s going to elevate me to a new level. My future is very bright and there will be big fights ahead for the British public to savour.”

He added, “Ricky is a good fighter, there’s no doubt about it, but I’ll have too much for him. There’s no way he’ll keep up. I’ll show no mercy and you can tell Ricky that much. I hope he’s ready because I’ll be bringing huge fire power to the fight. That isn’t to say I won’t be vigilant about when I unleash the lion from the cage; you’ll see my boxing skill and pedigree on show. Just watch out.”

For 31-year-old Ricky Summers, who hails from Tipton in the West Midlands, he has already come within touching distance of the British title after challenging for the title against then Champion Frank Buglioni in July 2017 at The O2.

He gave Buglioni a hard first title defence and took the Londoner into the trenches before losing on the scorecards in an action-packed fight. It certainly enhanced Summers’ reputation and he’ll now look to capitalise on that experience against Sterling.

He rebounded strongly after that night, displaying an array of skills, a combination of fast hands and powerful shots, to out box Gonzalo Romero and Tayar Mehmed to take his record to 15 wins from 16 fights.

Not only does Summers feel ready to get back into title contention, but he feels he is even better placed to do so than when he fought Buglioni.

Summers said, “I bounced back in the right way after the Buglioni fight. I lost that night because of experience. Frank wasn’t a better fighter, but he had already boxed on the big stage. Now I have that experience of having already fought at The O2 to take into the ring with me this time. That’s going to be invaluable. I’ve been waiting for this opportunity to get back in the spotlight, and I’m going to take my chance this time. There’s a lot on the line: the loser has nowhere to go, while the winner has bigger things to plan for.”

He added, “I think Andre Sterling is a good fighter and I respect him. He’s accumulated a good record since turning pro. He’s a skilful boxer, but he’s heavy handed. It will be a good clash of styles. I’ll have far too much for him though. I’ve improved tremendously as a fighter. I think the size difference between us will be a factor too.”

Both men have a great opportunity to step up in front of a huge crowd at The O2 and will put everything on the line to secure a victory that with will open doors and propel their careers to new heights.

Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from www.sportandmusic.co.uk

This fight will be shown exclusively on ITV Box Office. For further information and updates, please go to www.itvboxoffice.com

NOTE TO EDITORS: Please clearly credit ITV Box Office in any published material

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK.

The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK. The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivalled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US. PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States.

The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office.

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open.




SELDIN VS MATE AIRED LIVE VIA FITE TV PPV


Star Boxing’s “SLUGFEST at the SUN” featuring feared knockout artist, CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN and Hungarian banger, ADAM MATE, is set to cause fireworks at Mohegan Sun Arena, tomorrow night (1/26). Star Boxing is pleased to announce that if you are unable to make it the stellar night of fights, we have you covered. Watch SLUGFEST at the SUN live on PPV through FITE.TV. FITE, the world leader in the digital distribution of combat sports will stream the event live on the www.FITE.TV website, FITE mobile apps for iOS, Android, and the FITE channels of Amazon Fire, Android, Apple TV, and Roku on a PPV basis. The FITE PPV will be available for just $14.99. Check availability in your area by going to the FITE.tv website. The FITE.TV PPV will be blacked out in the New England area.

To accommodate the French audience, David Papot vs Courtney Pennington will be the 3rd fight on the show and will go on at approximately 8:30 PM/ET (2:30 AM, January 27th in France) to accommodate the live audience in France.




Solid supporting fights announced for Aston Palicte-Jose Martinez title eliminator

LAS VEGAS (January 24, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions has put together a solid card to support the World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior bantamweight world title eliminator between “Mighty” Aston Palicte (24-2-1, 20 KOs) and Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs) on January 31 at Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California.

Promoted by RJJ Boxing Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions, Palicte vs. Martinez will headline a card that will stream live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, in the inaugural event of a new agreement between Palicte’s promoter, RJJ Boxing, and FIGHT PASS, to live stream up to 72 professional boxing events over the next three years.

The event will be held on the Thursday night of Super Bowl week, in the Oak Ballroom at Viejas Casino & Resort, which is located 35 miles outside of San Diego.

The winner of the Palicte vs. Martinez 12-round main event will become the mandatory challenger for new WBO junior bantamweight and four-division world champion, Donnie Nietes (42-1-5, 24 KO). WBO No. 2 rated Palicte is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. Boxing, WBO No. 4 ranked Martinez by Miguel Cotto Promotions.

Last September, Palicte (WBO No. 2) fought a 12-round split draw with his fellow Filipino, Nietes, for the then vacant WBO Junior bantamweight championship.

GO HERE TO WATCH PALICTE-MARTINEZ PROMO VIDEO:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/rgtp4a9rl8hqbmp/%22Are%20you%20ready%3F%27%27%20RJJ%20.mov?dl=0

The co-featured event is a rare six-round match-up of two undefeated prospects, Texas featherweight Edward “Kid” Vasquez (5-0) and San Diego’s Brandon “2 Smooth” Cruz (6-0, 4 KOs). Styles make fights and consummate boxer Vasquez vs. slugger Cruz has all the ingredients for a highly entertaining, competitive fight.

The FIGHT PASS opener pits local favorite Dilan “El Rey” Miranda (4-1, 3 KOs) versus Daniel Constantino (2-2-1, 1 KO), who is straight out of Compton (CA), in a scheduled six-round, junior featherweight bout.

Fighting on the off-streamed card in four-round fights are San Diego featherweight Jessica Juarez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Kailyn Hansen (1-2), of Whittier, CA; Redlands, CA welterweight vs. David Morales (2-1-1), of Los Angeles; Los Angeles heavyweight Oscar Torres (3-0, 1 KO) vs. Ignacio Zambrano (2-4), of Torrance, CA.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets are priced at $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00 and available to purchase by going online at www.viejas.com.

Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first bout 5:30 p.m., FIGHT PASS starts at 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET)

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.Vieja.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte, @elreymiranda, @UFCFightPass
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions, RealMiguelCotto,




JAIME MUNGUIA VS. TAKESHI INOUE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES


HOUSTON (Jan. 29, 2019): Mexican warrior Jaime Munguia (31-0, 26 KOs) and Japanese contender Takeshi Inoue (13-0-1, 7 KOs) hosted the final press conference ahead of their 12-round battle for Munguia’s WBO Junior Middleweight World Title. The action will take place on Saturday, Jan. 26 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN – which is just $9.99 per month after a one-month free trial. Fans in Houston can purchase tickets starting at just $25 at ToyotaCenter.com.

Undercard fighters from the event also participated in the press conference. Below is what today’s participants had to say at today’s presser:

JAIME MUNGUIA, WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion

“We’re very happy to be here in Texas. It’s my first time in Texas and I feel at home here. They’ve received me very well. I want to tell people that we came here well-prepared and we’re in good condition. I want to tell Inoue that the title will not go to Japan, it will stay in Mexico and I will be champion for a while. Expect a big fight Saturday night.”

TAKESHI INOUE, Junior Middleweight Contender

“I want to thank everyone who made this fight possible. I think Munguia is a great champion, and I look forward to a great fight on Saturday. I have come here to bring the WBO belt back to Japan.”

JESUS ROJAS, WBA Featherweight World Champion

“I’m greatly happy to be here and I’m anxious for the fight we have this Saturday. We’re a day from making weight and I’m anxious and I’m excited. It’s my first time here. I hope Xu Can comes prepared to fight so we can give a great show, a real spectacle, to the fans of Texas.”

XU CAN, Featherweight Contender

“I’m very happy to be here in Houston. This is my second time fighting in the USA. It’s going to be my first time challenging the world title and I have confidence I can bring the world title back to China. I’m very excited for Saturday night.”

VERGIL ORTIZ JR., Super Lightweight Contender

“I’m really excited to be fighting here. I haven’t fought in Texas in a little over a year, and I kind of missed it. I’m really grateful to be in this position. I’m looking forward to fulfilling my dad’s and Oscar’s expectations and getting a world title this year. At this moment right now I’m ready for this world title. There’s no one at 140 who can beat me right now. I’m really confident in myself and my ability to get this world title.”

“I’m looking forward to eating Whataburger right after this fight.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CEO AND CHAIRMAN OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS

“The primary reason why I’m really excited to promote this event here in Houston is because it brings back big-time boxing to Houston. That’s exactly what our motive is for the year and for the years to come: to bring boxing back to the masses and bring boxing back to the fans.”

“I remember many years ago we promoted many great world title fights in Houston here at the Toyota Center with the likes of Juan Diaz, Juan Manuel Marquez against Katsidis. Houston has a rich history and fans have shown tremendous support to the sport of boxing. We at Golden Boy Promotions look forward to cultivating and growing and soon making local world champions here from Houston.”

“This event is very important because not only does it mark a great relationship with one of the – if not thebest promoter in Mexico – in Zanfer Promotions, Fernando Beltran, but it’s also important because it’s the first of many events that we will be streaming live on the new digital platform DAZN. I strongly feel that DAZN has really changed the game in many ways. There are many people who love watching boxing throughout the United States but sometimes it’s a little too expensive to watch a pay-per-view fight. We’re extremely fortunate to have a partner like DAZN who can come in and stream the fights for a relatively inexpensive price of $9.99 per month. For $9.99 a month, and the first month is free, you can watch this amazing card Saturday night, with two world titles on the line, but you can also watch the highly-anticipated fight between Canelo Alvarez and Daniel Jacobs on Cinco de Mayo weekend, which is the biggest boxing event of the year.”

FERNANDO BELTRAN, CEO OF ZANFER PROMOTIONS

“When Jaime Munguia won the title and surprised the world, of course we needed to do a strategic partnership with somebody, because the division is so hot between the super welterweights and middleweights. The best division is middleweights and DAZN has got the two best middleweights in the world – without a doubt Canelo Alvarez and Daniel Jacobs. That’s the way DAZN does boxing. Of course, we believe we are at that level with Jaime Munguia, and close to being in that mix, and we’re with the right people and the right platform and we feel very happy about it.”

Munguia vs. Inoue is a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Zanfer Promotions and Teiken Promotions. Rojas vs. Can is a 12-round fight for the WBA Featherweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN.

CREDENTIALS: Fight night credentials may be picked up from the Media Check-In doors located next to the Administration Entrance to Toyota Center on LaBranch Street and Clay Street beginning at 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Proper personal Photo ID (driver’s license or passport) must be shown to claim your credential.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Inoue are on sale now and are priced at $150, $100, $60, $40 and $25 plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased online at
www.ToyotaCenter.com and by phone at 1-866-4-HOU-TIX. Tickets will also be available at the Toyota Center Box Office.

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

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying
and pasting the link http://bit.ly/January26DAZN into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy Promotions for any photo and/or video usage.

About DAZN:
Globally, DAZN is a live and on-demand sports streaming service created by fans, for fans, that is leading the charge to provide access to sports anytime, anywhere. DAZN guarantees no long-term contract, no bundles, just one affordable price for access to all the service’s sports on connected devices including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. DAZN is currently available in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Japan, Canada, Italy and now the U.S. at just $9.99 per month after a one-month free trial – where it is becoming a must-have service for sports fans, with a daily show featuring live look-ins to Major League Baseball games beginning in 2019 and more than 100 fight nights already lined up from Matchroom Boxing, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series, Combate Americas and the recently announced Golden Boy Promotions.

About Toyota Center:
Since opening in October 2003, Toyota Center has set a new standard for sports and
entertainment, becoming one of the premier live entertainment venues in the nation. Laid
over the span of six city blocks, Toyota Center is home to the NBA’s Houston Rockets. Toyota Center also plays host to the nation’s top concerts and touring shows. The arena’s playing surface is set nearly 32-feet below street level giving Toyota Center the largest lower level of any arena in the nation. Coupled with the exclusive Lexus Lounge, trendy Golden Nugget Club, Red and White Bistro’s superior food and service, Toyota Center offers something for everyone making it the hottest spot for sports and entertainment in Houston. For more information, visit
www.houstontoyotacenter.com.




DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT SIGNS 2016 COLOMBIAN OLYMPIAN JUAN CARLOS CARRILLO

New York, NY (January 24, 2019) DiBella Entertainment has announced the signing of 2016 Colombian Olympian Juan Carlos Carrillo to an exclusive promotional contract.

The 26-year-old Carrillo advanced to the second round at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janiero, Brazil. He was among Colombia’s most decorated amateurs, with over 400 bouts experience, and winning gold at the 2012 Colombian National Games, 2012 Pacific Cup Tournament, 2011 Colombian National Championships, 2010 Colombian Youth National Championships, and silver at the 2014 Central American & Caribbean Games. Carrillo comes from a boxing family and, at age nine, followed his father and older brother into the sport. His brother, Leonard Carrillo, is an active junior middleweight. Now living in Queens, NY, Carrillo is trained by Martin Gonzalez and Juan Carlos Gonzalez out of Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym and will compete in the light heavyweight division as a professional.

“The light heavyweight division just got a little more crowded,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Colombia’s Juan Carlos Carrillo was a spectacular amateur with a record of 388-23 and will have the tools and maturity to progress through the pro ranks at a quick pace. I am happy to work with his manager Felipe Gomez and look forward to providing Carrillo with the opportunities necessary for him to achieve his dream of becoming a world champion.”

“I’ve always dreamed fighting in the United States and I thank God for making my dream come true,” said Carrillo. “I want to thank Lou DiBella for signing me and giving me this opportunity and my manager Felipe Gomez for helping to make this happen. I am very grateful and happy with the direction that my career will be heading now that I am with one of the best promoters in boxing and have a good manager by my side.”

“I am extremely happy to be part of Carrillo’s team,” said Carrillo’s manager Felipe Gomez. “He is a fighter that had a huge amateur background and will be bringing that experience into the pro ranks. I have big plans for him and I will work relentlessly with Lou DiBella to help Carrillo become a World Champion.”

Details on Carrillo’s professional debut will be announced shortly.




KEITH THURMAN vs. JOSESITO LOPEZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES


BROOKLYN (January 24, 2019) – One day before they weigh-in for their primetime showdown, welterweight world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman and veteran contender Josesito Lopez went face-to-face at the final press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Thursday’s press conference also saw stare downs from rising Polish heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Gerald Washington, who meet in a 10-round attraction, and hard-hitting featherweights Claudio Marrero and Tugstsogt Nyambayar, who meet in a 12-round showdown that opens the telecast at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference from the Barclays Center GEICO Atrium that aired live on FS2 and can be re-watched on the FOX Sports App:

KEITH THURMAN

“It’s a tremendous feeling to be back in this position. It’s an honor to be working with FOX and I’m excited for this new platform. I’ve got new health and I’m just ready for Saturday night.

“I’ve been to several fights in my time off and it’s felt like a lifetime. Saturday night, the champ is back. Brooklyn, we’re here.

“There’s always a little level of nerves for a fight, but it’s mostly anticipation. This is the world class level. I’m proud to be champion and I always want to be champion. The nerves are very natural, but they are not overpowering. I like to carry some nerves with me for each fight.

“Josesito has a lot of confidence. He has been training hard and I know that’s where his confidence comes from, because that’s where I get it from. When I’m on the battlefield, I go to war.

“It’s always my job to do my best. Win, lose or draw, people will have something to say about it. I’m fighting to stay at the top. We want to showcase our skills and remind people that I am ‘One Time’ and I am a big puncher. I’m going to have fun in there.

“I can find so many avenues to win. Josesito Lopez is a good fighter, but he’s like swiss cheese, he’s got holes throughout. It’s only a matter of me exposing them round-by-round.

“There shouldn’t be any hesitation in my game. We took this fight because we’re prepared. If anything was to occur, like if I were to feel some bumps and bruises in the fight, people have seen me fight through hematoma and some hard shots. I’m a tough egg to crack. No matter what shape I’m in, when it’s time to go to war, we fight.

JOSESITO LOPEZ

“I’m always in tough battles because I don’t shy away from them. I’m in a tough fight this weekend but I’m more than ready for it.

“Like any boxer, my confidence comes from my preparation. I feel like I’m at the championship level. I prepared well and I’ll have no excuses at the end of the night, no matter the result.

“In preparation for a fight like this, you have to look at bad habits and mistakes your opponent has made. You can’t find a losing fight with Keith, but he’s been in fights that have shown some flaws that he has in his game.

“I don’t know if Keith is overlooking me, but whatever the situation is, it will show in the ring. I’ve prepared for the best Keith Thurman and I’m prepared for Saturday night.

“In training camp we train in a family atmosphere. Robert Garcia has a family engagement this weekend, but I have the guru ‘Big G’, Eduardo Garcia, in my corner. We might even have a little surprised this weekend with Robert Garcia virtually checking in.”

ADAM KOWNACKI

“I was born in a small city in Poland and came here when I was seven. Every fight keeps getting bigger and bigger. I was an amateur when Barclays Center first started and now I’m the co-main event. I hope the next time here I’m the main event, that’s the goal.

“I think like all my fights, I’m going to go in and dictate the pace of the fight. Unless he can do something new, I think it’s going to go the way my past fights have gone. I’m going to bring the pressure and try to make my opponent fold.

“Washington is a big guy, but I have tactics to work through it. I have to go to the body, work the double jab and get inside to do my work.

“Hearing the Polish fans in my corner is great. But once the bell rings, you go to that focused mode. You know they’re cheering with you, but you’re totally focused on the fight and what your opponent is trying to do.”

GERALD WASHINGTON

“I’ve had great learning opportunities in my losses. I started my career late and I’ve been learning on the job. Every time I step into the ring, it’s a learning opportunity, win lose or draw, I have to take something from it.

“My fight against Deontay Wilder gave me confidence that I belong at the top. I didn’t have all the tools at that moment, but I’d never turn down an opportunity to fight for the heavyweight championship of the world.

“I learn something from all of my fights. The wins and the losses. I’ve taken things and added it to my arsenal because you can’t ever stop learning in this game. The focus that is necessary at every moment was something I really learned from the Wilder fight.

“This is do or die, sink or swim. We have to look at every opportunity like that. I’ve done everything in my power to prepare for this fight. I did all my homework, did all the sparring and conditioning, I mentally prepared and I’m ready for Saturday night.”

CLAUDIO MARRERO

“I have to win explosively like I always have. I have to earn that right to fight the top featherweights like Leo Santa Cruz and Gary Russell.

“I respect my opponent, but I don’t believe he’s fought tough enough opponents to be ready for what I bring to the ring. Having said that, we left no stone unturned and I’ve trained 100 percent for this.

“I’m here to give the fans a great fight and earn the opportunity to get to the world title again. This is a fight that could definitely steal the show.”

TUGSTSOGT NYAMBAYAR

“This is my toughest fight to date and I’ve trained with a lot of southpaws who have prepared me for this opportunity. I’ve gained a lot of experience since I turned pro and I’m going to show it Saturday.

“I’ve trained very hard and I’ve focused on what I need to do Saturday. My team and I have a great plan and if I listen to my coach and make adjustments I know that I will be victorious.

“I hope that this leads me to a world title shot. That’s why we started this journey in the pros and after Saturday night, no one will be able to deny me that opportunity.”

# # #

ABOUT PBC ON FOX & FOX DEPORTES: THURMAN VS. LOPEZ
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes is headlined by the return of WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman defending his title against veteran contender Josesito López on Saturday, January 26 live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and the East Coast home of PBC. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising unbeaten Polish heavyweight Adam Kownacki taking on former title challenger Gerald Washington, plus a 12-round featherweight showdown between Claudio Marrero and Tugstsogt Nyambayar.

PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and will feature junior lightweight prospect Chris Colbert taking on once-beaten Josh Hernandez in an eight-round bout, plus 2016 U.S. Olympian Antuanne Russell facing Roberto Almazán in a six/eight round super lightweight attraction, and super welterweight prospect Chordale Booker meeting Juan De Ángel for eight-rounds of action.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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




FARMER DEFENDS WORLD TITLE AGAINST CARROLL ON MARCH 15


Tevin Farmer will defend his IBF World Super-Featherweight title against Jono Carroll at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia on Friday March 15, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

TICKETS WILL GO ON SALE NEXT TUESDAY (JANUARY 29)

Farmer (28-4-1 6KOs) makes the third defense of his crown in his first fight on home turf as a World champion, following a wide points win over Francisco Fonseca in New York in December, a win that followed a dominant fifth round stoppage over Northern Irishman James Tennyson in his first defense in Boston in October.

The 28 year old returns to the Temple University venue having boxed there in April 2017 against Arturo Reyes – the fight before his first World title showdown with Kenichi Ogawa in Las Vegas in December, where his controversial split decision loss was turned into a no-contest after the Japanese failed a drug test. Farmer would claim the vacant IBF title in August in Australia with a comprehensive points win over seasoned Aussie Billy Dib.

Unbeaten Dubliner Carroll (16-0-1 3KOs) fights for his first World title on St Patrick’s weekend against Farmer, with his shot at the title following a closely fought split draw in a final eliminator with Guillaume Frenois in Sheffield, England in December.

Farmer and Carroll have been involved in bitter social media spats and will finally come face-to-face for the first time at a press conference to launch the fight in Philly next Tuesday, and both fighters believe the fight will be as fiery as the build-up.

“He’s got a World title shot on St Patrick’s weekend, he should be thanking me,” said Farmer. “He’s trying to get under my skin but it’s impossible to get under my skin. He’s making himself look bad and he’s stepping up to a whole different level with me. I’m A-level and he’s going to pay.

“He says we both come from tough backgrounds, the hood, that boy hasn’t come from any struggle, no hood. I’m going to show him when he comes to Philly, he’s going to eat his words. He’s trying to get his buzz up but there’s certain things that you don’t say. He’s made this personal and you don’t want to get personal with a Philly guy like me.

“This is big for me, fighting as a World champion in Philly. When does Philly hold big World championship shows? This is big – it’s a boxing town but this is as big a show as there’s been here for a long time. I have to thank Eddie, Lou and DAZN for making this a reality, because often World champions don’t always get the chance to fight in their home city. It doesn’t happen, but it’s happening for me and that shows the level of respect that Eddie, Lou and I have for each other. It’s going to be a great night.

“I don’t care about these other champions. You never know what is going to happen with politics and people making excuses, but I’m here, I defended the title twice in three months last year and I’m headlining at home. If people really want to fight, it’s simple to do – sign the contract and turn up and fight.

“The only thing I care about is my career, keep lining them up and I’m going to keep smoking them and keep getting paid. With or without them, my career will be the best of all those guys. I’m on a high right now. Everything is good right now, I’m doing everything I’ve dreamed of.”

“It is only fitting that Tevin Farmer’s remarkable journey in boxing and in life comes back to his home city, Philadelphia,” said DiBella. “In 2018, from Australia to Madison Square Garden, Tevin established himself as one of the brightest and most active stars in boxing.

“This is the homecoming Tevin deserves, and if Jono Carroll fights with the same fervor that he talks, it will also be a fight befitting of a city that has long been synonymous with all action wars.”

“I’ll do what I want with Tevin, he’s a tiny little child and I’m not afraid of him,” said Carroll. “When we meet, if he’s respectful of me, I’ll be respectful back as that’s how I’ve been brought up – but if comes talking rubbish then I’ll put him in his place.

“I see a fakeness in him when I see him interviewed, I see a fake person. My thoughts on him are that he wants to be liked, but he’s not. I reckon he’s arrogant, that’s the man I think he is and I know he’s that sort of flashy person saying stupid things on Twitter.

“Tevin is a man that wants to be liked but he plays like he’s Floyd Mayweather, but he’s not half as good as him. He has serious holes in his armory, and I am going to poke every single one of them, I’ll break him up and stop him.

“He’s never met a man like me in his life. He came from a rough background yes, but so did I. We’re both from crazy places but we’re in the limelight now, so we have to be grown-up and responsible as we’re going to have cameras around us.”

Irish sensation Katie Taylor can take a giant step towards her goal of becoming the undisputed World Lightweight champion when she aims to unify her WBA and IBF titles against WBO ruler Rose Volante.

Taylor (12-0 5KOs) added the IBF strap to her WBA title in April against Victoria Bustos in Brooklyn, New York, and has since defended the titles three times, stopping Kimberly Connor in three rounds in London in July before shutouts against Cindy Serrano in Boston in October and ending a stunning 2018 by beating Eva Wahlstrom in New York in December.

Volante (14-0 8KOs) has defended her WBO crown twice since winning the vacant title in December 2017 and the Argentine won both her defenses in Brazil 2018 by the halfway point, with Lourdes Borbua retiring after five rounds in April and Yolis Marrugo Franco stopped in three in September.

The champions put titles and unbeaten records on the line in Philadelphia, and the winner will target Belgian WBC ruler Delfine Persoon for all the belts later in the year.

“Ever since I won my first World title as a pro my goal has been to unify the Lightweight titles so this is obviously a massive step towards that,” said Taylor. “Volante is unbeaten so I’m expecting a tough fight but that’s exactly the kind of challenge I want. I think the better the opponent and the bigger the challenge the better I will perform.

“It’s a great card to be on especially with so many Irish fighters on the bill on St. Patrick’s weekend in Philadelphia so I’m sure it will be a special occasion.

“For now my focus is on Volante but of course after that fight I would love to have all the belts as soon as possible. Hopefully the Persoon fight can finally be made for the summer and then there are some other huge fights out there as well for the rest of the year.”

A stacked card in support of the two World title blockbusters is led by a crunch Middleweight clash between Philadelphia’s Gabriel Rosado and Pole Maciej Sulecki and an all-Philadelphia Lightweight clash between Hank Lundy and Avery Sparrow.

Rosado (24-11-1 14KOs) is back in action after a controversial all-action fight in Kansas with Luis Arias in November, the former World title challenger drawing with the Milwaukee man. The 33 year old will be desperate to get his name back into contention for major honors with the 160lbs division red hot right now, but Sulecki (27-1 11KOs) will have the same designs on those title shots having bounced back from a loss against Daniel Jacobs in April with a second round KO win in Poland in November.

“I’m excited to start the year back home in Philly,” said Rosado. “This is the second half of my career and the goal is to win a World title. It’s only right that it starts here in Philly.”

Prospect Sparrow (9-1 3KOs) will be gunning to add a major scalp to his CV in the shape of former World title challenger Lundy (29-7-1 14KOs). Sparrow faces the second ten round clash of his career as he looks to step up his progress early in 2019.

“It’s been a long time since I last fought but that’s on me and I’ve learned from it,” said Sparrow. “Fighting someone like Hank Lundy is the kind of challenge I look forward to. It’s a big fight on a big stage.”

“Once again we have a great Philly vs. Philly fight and that is always good for boxing in Philly,” said Lundy. “It’s a hard fight but we’re both looking down the road because we know what winning this fight will do for our careers.”

Kazakhstan’s Olympic gold medal star Daniyar Yeleussinov (5-0 3KOs) fights for the sixth time in the paid ranks ahead of what promises to be a break out year for the 27 year old, the same of which can be said for two-time Olympian and 2012 silver medalist John Joe Nevin (11-0 4KOs) who joins fellow Irish fighters on the St. Patrick’s weekend bill.

“I can’t wait for March 15 at the Liacouras Center,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “It’s our first ever event in Philadelphia and it’s an honor to promote in this great city on St Patrick’s weekend.

“Tevin Farmer is one of the great boxing underdog stories of our generation and I’m so happy he is getting the chance to bring that World championship home against a feisty and talented Jono Carroll.

“The biggest star in World boxing, Ireland’s Katie Taylor, looks to unify the division against WBO champ Rose Volante. Philly favorite Gabe Rosado takes on Poland’s Maciej Sulecki in a thrilling Middleweight match up and Olympic stars Daniyar Yeleussinov and John Joe Nevin. It’s stacked from top to bottom and it’s going to be an electric night of boxing in Philadelphia.”




WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter Makes First Title Defense Against Mandatory Challenger Yordenis Ugas Saturday, March 9 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Main Event From from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, Calif.- 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT


CARSON, Calif. (January 24, 2019) – WBC Welterweight World Champion Shawn Porter will make his first title defense in primetime as he battles mandatory challenger Yordenis Ugas Saturday, March 9 in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes live from Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly StubHub Center, in Carson, California.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see Porter defend his title after defeating Danny Garcia in an exciting September clash to capture the WBC belt. He will face Cuba’s Ugas, who has worked his way to this position with an impressive string of eight-straight victories leading up to March 9.

The action also features a duel between two hard-hitting brawlers as Andrzej Fonfara and Edwin Rodriguez meet in a 10-round cruiserweight match in the co-feature, while heavy-handed slugger Efe Ajagba steps up to face experienced veteran Amir Mansour in an eight-round heavyweight attraction in the televised opener.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale Monday, January 28 at 12 p.m. PT. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com

“Shawn Porter is one of the most charismatic and exciting fighters in the sport and he’s sure to light up the screen on March 9 on FOX and FOX Deportes,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “After winning a hard-fought close decision over Danny Garcia in September to capture the title, he will again have his hands full, this time with Cuba’s Yordenis Ugas, who has taken the division by storm, defeating top contenders and prospects to put himself in this mandatory position for his first world title. It’s a matchup of styles that is sure to generate a memorable night.

“In addition, Andrzej Fonfara and Edwin Rodriguez are heavy-hitters known for being in electric matchups and I expect both to leave it all on the line in this showdown to see who moves back closer to the championship ranks. With sensational prospect Efe Ajagba rising up the heavyweight division, he will look to secure another knockout on this March 9 card that is set to deliver from top to bottom.”

Porter will defend his title just over a month after Keith Thurman and Manny Pacquiao defend their 147-pound championships in separate clashes, and one week before Errol Spence Jr. puts his welterweight belt on the line against Mikey Garcia on FOX Sports PBC PPV, as we near finding out who will rise to the top of boxing’s deepest and most-exciting division.

The 31-year-old Porter earned the Garcia fight with a dominant stoppage of former world champion Andre Berto, which he followed up by defeating tough contender Adrian Granados. This followed Porter’s memorable title clash against Keith Thurman in 2016, which drew Fight of the Year praise and was narrowly won by Thurman.

Originally from Akron, Ohio but now living and training in Las Vegas, Porter became a welterweight champion for the first time in 2014 when he defeated Devon Alexander. Although he lost the belt to Kell Brook, Porter rebounded two fights later with a high-profile win against four-division champion Adrien Broner.

“We’ve already been in training camp for a few weeks working on conditioning and building up the fundamentals,” said Porter. “Ugas is a strong, aggressive fighter who’s responsible with his defense. He’s a Cuban fighter and I know he won’t waiver from that. It’s going to be up to me to get him to drop his hands, take some risks and then land my shots. It should make for a very entertaining fight and I can’t wait to get back in the ring and do what I do best.”

March 9 concludes a long road traveled by Ugas (23-3,11 KOs) from Cuban amateur star, to nearly out of the sport, and now on the cusp of a world championship. The 32-year-old won Bronze at the 2008 Olympic games and was 15-1 as a pro before suffering back-to-back losses in 2014. A 28-month layoff followed, with Ugas eventually deciding to return to the ring for a battle against then unbeaten prospect Jamal James.

Ugas not only defeated James in August 2016, but he followed up the win by stopping another unbeaten prospect in Bryant Perrella just over a month later. Now living in Miami and training in Las Vegas, Ugas triumphed in title eliminators against Ray Robinson last February and Cesar Barrionuevo in September on the undercard of the Garcia vs. Porter fight.

“This is a huge opportunity to make my dreams come true of becoming a world champion on FOX,” said Ugas. “Shawn Porter is a great champion and someone I respect. On March 9 when the bell rings, I’m willing to leave it all on the line, so the fans shouldn’t miss this one. It will be a ‘Fight of the Year’ contender. I can guarantee that and you will hear the words ‘and the new!”’

Fonfara (30-5, 18 KOs) established himself as a rugged contender in the light heavyweight division with some solid victories, including his most notable triumph over Julio Cesar Chavez, Jr. He fought Adonis Stevenson twice for the light heavyweight world championship, losing the first time by decision in 2014 and losing by TKO in 2017. In his last fight on Feb. 17, the 31-year-old Fonfara of Radom, Poland, who now lives in Chicago, scored a TKO victory over Ismayl Sillah.

“I’m excited because I’ve trained a long time to get a fight and now we have a date and a great opponent,” said Fonfara. “I know Rodriguez is a strong fighter. He moved up to the cruiserweight division like me, so I think this is a 50-50 fight. It’s a good fight because me and him are tough fighters. We like to go to war. I know Edwin from Houston because I trained there a couple of times. He and I are good friends with Artur Szpilka. There’s no animosity and once we fight and I beat him, we can go out have a beer and talk.”

Rodriguez (30-2, 20 KOs) has demonstrated the ability to end a fight with a single punch, which adds intrigue every time he steps into the ring. The 33-year-old Rodriguez was born in Moca, Dominican Republic before moving to Worcester, Massachusetts. In his last fight he scored a unanimous decision over Lionell Thompson on Feb. 17, 2018.

“I feel great and I feel confident heading into this fight,” said Rodriguez. “Fonfara is a great fighter and so am I. It’s going to be very entertaining for the fans. I bring it and he brings it. I’ll adapt as the fight goes on and I’ll be ready for the best Fonfara.”

Nigeria’s Ajagba (8-0, 7 KOs) gained notoriety last August 24 at the Armory and on FS1 when his opponent, Curtis Harper, walked out of the ring after touching gloves to start the first round. The 24-year-old won the fight without throwing a punch as Harper was disqualified. In his last fight Ajagba, who lives in Stafford, Texas and trains with Ronnie Shields, knocked out Santino Turnbow on December 22.

Mansour (23-3-1, 16 KOs) is a tough veteran who has battled some of the top contenders in the sport, including Dominic Breazeale, Gerald Washington and former cruiserweight world champion Steve Cunningham. The 46-year-old southpaw from Wilmington, Delaware is looking to rebound from a loss to unbeaten Filip Hrgovic in his last fight on September 8.

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




LEICESTER SHOW PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

PLEASE find below quotes from today’s press conference for Frank Warren’s big card at Leicester’s Morningside Arena on Saturday February 23, live on BT Sport.

British super-featherweight champion Sam Bowen (14-0) heads the card against an opponent to be announced after Ronnie Clark pulled out.

Anthony Yarde (17-0) defends his WBO intercontinental light-heavyweight title against Mehdi Amar (35-6-2).

Super-featherweight Lyon Woodstock (11-1) and super-lightweight Sam Maxwell (10-0) are also in action, while there is a Leicester derby between CJ Challenger (9-0) and Kyle Haywood (8-0) with the Midlands Area super-welterweight title on the line.

FRANK WARREN
“Yet again Clark pulled out. It is ridiculous and I don’t know why he wanted the fight in the first place. We want Sam Bowen to defend his British title if anyone has the balls to step up, but he will be fighting. Sam is talented, does the job in style, dedicated and the chances will come.
If Lyon can get on track we could make him against Sam Bowen later this year. If Anthony can stop Amar that will be a statement. This year is about making it happen. These are the sort of fights he wants. I could have made him a world title fight last year, but it is not about fighting for it but winning and defending it. He is getting there. Sam Maxwell has been patient and this year is going to be his year. If he hasn’t got a meaningful title around his waist by the end of the year I’ll be very surprised. A fight against Ohara Davies shouldn’t be hard to make.”

SAM BOWEN
“It was disappointing when we found on Wednesday that Ronnie was out because our styles made a great fight, but potentially we have bigger and better opportunities. When I won the British title I was buzzing, and it allows me to have big, big fights. I am in the sport to provide for my family and getting big fights will let me do that. “

ANTHONY YARDE
“It is a line you hear, but whoever you put in front of me I have a job and that is to win the best way I can and that is a knockout. I am not world champion yet, and I try not to focus on the competition. I focus on where I am mentally and physically. I try not to get caught up in the hype because hype doesn’t last.”

LYON WOODSTOCK
“People assumed the loss to Archie Sharp would hit me. To me what I learnt and took away was massive. I wasn’t feeling sorry for myself and I wanted to know what was next. I am doing okay and in under two years made steps some haven’t. I will do what is needed to become a world champion. I won’t be defined by the Sharp loss. There is not one person who is in my sights and whoever it takes to bowl over to get there I will. I wont fixate on one person. I’m targeting no one but if he (Sam Bowen) is in the way so be it.”

SAM MAXWELL
“I have had ten fights and Frank had told me to be patient, but now I am being stepped up. I just want to challenge people like Ohara Davies. I have been ready to step up for a while.”

KYLE HAYWOOD
“What a fight this will be. It is a fight that has always been on the cards and it’s not who is the best in Leicester, but in the Midlands. We have boxed on same cards as amateur and supported each other, but we knew we have been on the same path. I’m so excited. This is everything. There is no animosity, but we both think we can win.”

CJ CHALLENGER
“It is a great fight, Two undefeated boxers putting it on the line and all the Leicester boxing community should be excited. Too many boxers are frightened by losing their 0. Kyle is a good operator, but on the night I will pull it out of the bag.”

Headlining the show at the Morningside Arena is British super featherweight champion Sam Bowen and is joined by light heavyweight Anthony Yarde as he takes on former European champion Mehdi Amar in the evening’s co-headline fight.

Local fighters CJ Challenger and Kyle Haywood do battle for the vacant Midlands Area super welterweight title. Nathan Gorman, Sam Maxwell, Lyon Woodstock, Willy Hutchinson, Ryan Garner, Tommy Fury, Ryan Hatton and Mark Chamberlain also feature on the card.

Tickets priced at £40, £60, £100 & £150 are available and on sale NOW via Eventbrite.




Injury Forces Contender Miguel Flores Out For Showdown Against Featherweight Champion Leo Santa Cruz Saturday, February 16 in Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes Main Event Live from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES (January 24, 2019) – Featherweight challenger Miguel Flores suffered an ankle injury in training and was forced to drop out of his match against WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo “El Terremoto” Santa Cruz that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes Saturday, February 16 from Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Stepping up to replace Flores is Rafael “Big Bang” Rivera, a 24-year-old contender from Tijuana, Mexico.

The televised undercard will also feature a battle of unbeaten super welterweight prospects as sensational Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fondura takes on Donnie Marshall in an eight-round match that will kick off the television coverage at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The co-feature is an exciting 12-round junior welterweight clash between unbeaten former champion Omar Figueroa and hard-hitting John Molina Jr.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, are on sale now, and can be purchased at AXS.com.

Rivera (26-2-2, 17 KOs) is no stranger to stepping into tough challenges on short notice. One of his losses came when he stepped in as a late replacement to take on Joseph “JoJo” Diaz in September 2017 and lost by decision. In his next fight he lost a split decision to unbeaten Joet Gonzalez on July 13. He rebounded with a knockout victory over Jose Ramos in his last fight on October 19 and will now step up to face the toughest challenge of his career on February 16.

At 6-foot-6, the unbeaten Fundora (11-0, 7 KOs) has made a name for himself with his stature and skills inside the ring. The 21-year-old southpaw from Coachella, California blazed through 2018 by stopping all three of his opponents by knockout, including previously unbeaten Ve Shawn Owens in April and most recently Jeremiah Wiggins in November.

The 30-year-old Marshall (10-0, 6 KOs) is from Raleigh, North Carolina and also had a busy 2018, fighting four times and scoring two stoppage wins. He earned unanimous decision over Javier Frazier in his last fight on November 30.

# # #

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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




KEITH THURMAN vs. JOSESITO LOPEZ INTERNATIONAL MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT


Tom Brown
Thanks everybody for joining us today for this call to kick off the 2019 season of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes live on primetime on Saturday, January 26 at the Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

After a string of injuries sidelined him for nearly two years, WBA welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman returns to the ring to defend his title against the “Riverside Rocky” Josesito Lopez in one of the hottest divisions in boxing today.

Television coverage for the event begins at 8:00 pm Eastern Time, 5:00 pm Pacific Time. We also have an outstanding co-feature featuring fast-rising, unbeaten Polish heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki taking on former world title challenger Gerald Washington in a 10-round heavyweight bout.

It’s great to be back at Barclays Center, one of the best boxing venues in the country. BROOKLYN BOXING™ is now a very well-known brand because of the dedication to boxing and the support of Brett Yormark, the CEO of BSE Global.

So now it’s my pleasure to introduce the hard-hitting challenger from Riverside, California — the Riverside Rocky — Josesito Lopez. Jose?

Josesito Lopez
Yes. Thank you for having me. I’m exciting to be showcasing my talents and skills here in Brooklyn, and I thank TGB Promotions, FOX and FOX Deportes for having me. And you won’t be disappointed Saturday night.

Q
Do you feel like coming into this fight that you’re kind of getting him at the opportune time?

J. Lopez
You know what? I’m not expecting that or counting on that. I prepared for the best Keith Thurman that I’ve seen. I think it’s not easy coming back from a layoff.

I know that myself, because I was myself in a two-year layoff about two and a half years ago. So I know the feeling. I know the obstacles that you have to go through physically and mentally. So I can’t assume it will be easy.

But either way — no matter what — he chose the wrong opponent to come back to. And I’m going to prove that.

Q
Does that sort of discussion about being a comeback fight irritate you, offend you or just make you more motivated to go do what you have to do? What’s your point of view on that?

J. Lopez
Yes, I wouldn’t say it offends me. There’s a lot of casuals that don’t understand the ins and outs and then don’t realize what I bring to the table. So no. It’s not bothersome, but to a lot of people — to those people that are thinking that way — it’s going to come as a surprise.

But for the people that really know boxing and really know the inside of my camp and my training, it won’t be a surprise when I pull off the victory.

Q
What is it that you have to do and excel at on Saturday to be able to turn back Keith Thurman, who you expect to be the best Keith Thurman that you’ve been seeing over the years?

J. Lopez
You know what? Like I’ve mentioned before, I think overall in the fight, my skill, my power and my will will outshine all these obstacles that I have to get through to get a victory against a champion like Keith Thurman. So I’m just going to plain simply win.

Q
Can you tell us about your mental preparation for the fight?

J. Lopez
I’ve had a great preparation. I’ve been training in the training camp, actually the same training camp that Mikey Garcia trains in for his fights. Everything has gone great, went perfect, so I can’t complain about training camp.

The road here hasn’t been just this training camp. It’s really been a three-fight training camp where I’ve been casually just working my way up into a championship level with the help of Robert Garcia. He’s helped me get into the best shape and best skills possible for a fight at this level.

So I’m definitely championship-level. And I’m going to prove that I’m championship material.
Q
Does the top competition you’ve faced give you confidence going into this Thurman fight?

J. Lopez
Well I wouldn’t say necessarily it gives me confidence. I would say this is not a place where I haven’t been before. My back’s against the wall, per se. I’m going in against a champion and I’m going against a tough opponent, a world champion.

So it’s all somewhere where I’ve been before and doesn’t – I’m not new to the game. I’m not -, this is not a new feeling. I’m going in. I know exactly what I have to do. And I’ve just got to go out there and execute.

Q
What are some of your favorite two fights that you’ve had that people would know about? What two fights do you like to talk about or remember in particular?

J. Lopez
You know what? I’ve had several great battles against some warriors, some very good champions. You know, I would say most recently would probably be versus Canelo Alvarez and Marcos Maidana. Those were great battles.

I had a big disadvantage against Canelo weight-wise. But I showed my true grit and my will.

And Maidana was a very tough opponent, caught me with a good punch, and I was stopped early. But I think what I bring to the table now is adding a little more intelligence and skill to that will that I’ve showed in previous past fights.

Q
And you’re training now with Robert Garcia in Riverside. Who are some of the guys that you’re sparring with up there?

J. Lopez
Oh, I’ve sparred absolutely everybody in the camp. I’m sparring guys as heavy as fighting at middleweight. I really can’t name them all, absolutely everyone from 140 to 160 that Robert Garcia has in Riverside Training Camp. I sparred them all. They’ve all helped me.

For this training camp — I’ve pretty much sparred every undefeated fighter that we have. I’m definitely prepared. I put in the work and now it’s time to execute.

Q
What’s it like where everybody’s going to be fighting almost at the same time?

J. Lopez
Well I think when it comes down to the work in training camp, , we’re all focused and mentally prepared for this moment. I know we all have different obstacles and are going to different places in the world to fight. But we all want the same outcome for each one of us.

So we’re all prepared. It’s great being amongst other champions and other great undefeated fighters training for the same goal that we all have. So it’s definitely motivating. And we’ve all prepared well. And we’re all ready to get a W.

Q
When a fighter has those sorts of injuries Keith had and has to come back from that, you know, does that put a little seed of doubt in his mind?

J. Lopez
Yes. Like I mentioned before, I’m not counting on that. I know that I’ve gone through the same thing and it’s not quite the same the first fight back or maybe even the second fight back. But he’s a champion, and he’s obviously ready to come back, he feels like. So he must feel well with recovery.

I’m definitely counting on seeing a good Keith Thurman, a refreshed Keith Thurman from a two-year layoff. And just like it can be a bad thing, it can also be a good thing. So that’s something we can’t know, really, until we’re up in the ring.

Q
In those first initial rounds, do you believe that those are the best time to take advantage of Keith Thurman, while he’s still trying to shake off the ring rust?

J. Lopez
No. I wouldn’t necessarily say that. I’m going in there with a smart game plan to win round by round. But we’ve worked on every aspect of our game. So we’re prepared mentally and physically to just going in there and then doing our thing.

It’s not necessarily going in there to try to jump on him early. But I’m prepared to go as many rounds as it might take.

Q
Do you feel like people are kind of overlooking you for this fight? And if so, do you believe that has that added any motivation into the training camp?

J. Lopez
I don’t feel like people are overlooking me. People are overlooking me. It’s shown. I don’t mind it. Does it bother me? Not at all, really. It motivates me. It has motivated me. I’m definitely ready. And to whoever it may be a surprise to — I’m taking the championship belt this Saturday.

Q
Have you kind of taken anything from those past big fights?

J. Lopez
Yes. For those that haven’t seen since some of those big fights that I had in previous years, you’re definitely going to see an improved fighter, overall, in my aspect of boxing.

I had some good tough battles against some good champions. But if you look back and look at my fights, you could say I was one step behind them, in whatever it might have been.

When other opponents face those same fighters those champions that I’ve fought really displayed a lot more and were able to look a lot better against other opponents. But I’m definitely prepared. I’m ready to go. I’m anxious and I can’t wait to get this done.

Q
What most concerns you about Thurman going into the fight this weekend?

J. Lopez
You know what? I’m aware of everything. I wouldn’t say I’m just concerned of one thing. But, I know he’s obviously an undefeated champion for a reason. So he brings a lot to the table.

He’s skilled. He’s strong. He has good movement. So I’ve just prepared for that. So I’m aware of everything that he brings to the table. I’ve just got to go out there and execute my own plan.

Q
What would you like boxing fans to know about you coming out of this fight on Saturday?

J. Lopez
That you can’t really judge a fighter by his wins and losses. I’ve had some tough defeats and some close defeats. But wins and losses aren’t everything.

I’m a better fighter than I’ve ever been. And I’m at my best. So it doesn’t matter how many bumps on the road I might have had throughout my career. I’m still going to be a world champion.

J. Lopez
I’d like to let everyone know that come Saturday night, you’re going to see a great, great fight, a fight that you won’t forget. And make sure you don’t miss it and be there if you can.

T. Brown
Now I’d like to introduce the undefeated WBA welterweight champion of the world from Clearwater Florida — he’s got a record of 28 and 0, and it’s great to have him back — Keith Thurman.

Keith Thurman
Hi, guys. How are you guys doing today? It’s just great to be back. I’m looking forward to this fight back in Brooklyn, 22 months in the making. It’s real exciting for me, for my team. I know a lot of fans miss me. And it’s going to be a great show. I’m happy. I’m happy to be here.

Q
Could you just sort of explain if there were injury frustrations and what they were like for you?

K. Thurman
Definitely. The elbow surgery, I kept like pressing my doctor to give me like a turnaround date. Like, “How long, Doc? How long, Doc?” And I wasn’t under – I didn’t understand why he kept really beating around the bush. He was very clever with his wording.

He pretty much never answered the question, no matter how many words he used. And I didn’t understand. So probably about six months after the surgery when I realized like this is a long recovery because it’s not healed yet, and I know I still need more time.

So it was more of a 10-month to a full 12-month recovery, which would have been okay. It’s not the longest layoff. That was frustrating in itself.

But luckily for me, I spent a lot of time with my wife. And I was surrounded by her family and just a lot of new life experiences. And I was able to cope with that.

When I was trying to get back in the ring and I had another injury due to my left hand, that’s when I just was like, “Man, this is not – this is not fun at all. I just want to get back into the sport. I wish somebody could tell me what day I’m going to be back in the ring.”

It just was very frustrating for me. I really just wanted to have a fight date. I wanted to be able to get back into the ring. The doctors were telling me “You’re not going to be out forever” — this and that — and I’m like, “It just feels like forever.”

It just felt like a long time. So I’m just truly happy to be back with this fight date against a truly game fighter. I think this is a great comeback fight for myself.

Josesito Lopez has been moving up. He’s been catching some momentum. He’s got a new trainer, new set of confidence. He wants to showcase his skills and talent. I want to remind the world who Keith Thurman truly is.

Q
How are they now? Are you as healthy as you’ve been going into a fight coming off his layoff? Or are you still having any issues with anything?

K. Thurman
Well the doctor told me the hand may need monitoring throughout my whole career, which fighters have gone through that many times. Some have to get surgeries and things like that. I’m hoping to avoid such things. But we’ll see what happens in the future.

Q
Did it never get to that point where you thought you wouldn’t be able to box again? And if it did, how did you deal with that?

K. Thurman
No. The worst part is, I’ve been out of the ring for two years. I was 28 years old the last time I fought. I’m 30 now. It’s just a little disappointing, missing some of those years of my youth.

But luckily I still am in my prime. And just being in shape now motivates me for my future. Watching Manny Pacquiao win a fight at 40 years old also motivates me.

So there were moments where I had some morbid thinking and negative thoughts. But at the end of the day, we’re back in action. And we’re really excited. And we’re looking forward to the future.

Q
Does that Pacquiao fight interest you for down the road?

K. Thurman
It does interest me. I just know he’s interested in fighting Mayweather again. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand how much money they’re going to generate, even if they were to generate half the income that they did last time.

Some people believe that people don’t want to see it. But I tend to find out people watch what’s on TV. So it’s interesting. I would love an opportunity to fight a legend such as Manny Pacquiao.

I’ve never had the opportunity to negotiate any fights against Floyd Mayweather. So if I was ever given such an opportunity, it would be an honor. And I would definitely take it.

Q
Are you looking at this fight as not just a simple title defense but an opportunity to reestablish yourself as the best fighter 147 pounds and kind of show people why you were the unified champion two years ago?

K. Thurman
Well definitely. We’re back on the stage. So we’re going to perform. We’re going to give you guys a great performance. You guys are the critics.

You get to say what Keith Thurman looks like and who looks like they’re about to be the top guy and x, y, and z and all that stuff. But like I stated when we first were on FOX — I’ve always been the original problem. I am the truth and I’m swift.

It’s showtime at FOX. I belong here. I belong here. I’ve been telling people that Keith Thurman was ranked number one. Two years out, do I hold my position? Some people say yes. Some people say no.

Let’s say I don’t hold my position. Where do you put Keith Thurman? “Oh, he’s not number one. Maybe he’s number two. Oh, wait, but you also have that Crawford guy there. Well then he’s number three.”

Look, man. I worked my whole life to be at the top of the game, and if you’re ranked number one, two or three, you’re at the top. So I don’t stress that stuff. I don’t look at anything negative. I constantly focus on the positive.

And I’m stepping back in the ring against Josesito Lopez to remind the world who Keith Thurman is, what it looks like when he’s fighting, how entertaining I can be and that I’m an elite fighter at 147.

Q
Could you sort of put dates or at least time frames to your first surgery on your elbow, when you thought it was going to be good, and then when you injured your left hand so we have a pretty good time reference on that?

K. Thurman
Well the doctor wouldn’t give me a turnaround date, which sucked, which frustrated me a little bit. I just had to go based off of feel, and it felt – it really did feel good after a year. We started to get into a camp, and then we reinjured ourselves, and it just really – it just prolonged the whole process. I kind of started that camp where I got re-injured about a year ago from now, actually.

Q
Is this the perfect time for you to reestablish yourself?

K. Thurman
It’s a beautiful moment in the sport of boxing. And I’m truly blessed to be at the top. That’s how I feel. I’ve always known that we were going to be here one day but — luckily for me — the day is today.

For it to be my first appearance on FOX – FOX is highly dedicated to what they’re doing in the sport.

For the sport of boxing and for a lot of the top fighters and top contenders — this is just a great moment to be a part of a beautiful sport which is boxing.

I’m happy to be here. I’m looking forward to my return — this performance Saturday night — and I’m going to give you guys a good show.

Q
Do you think that Floyd is going to come back and fight Manny? Or what is your gut feeling on that?

K. Thurman
90%. Floyd said everything when he said absolutely nothing. A lot of people don’t know how to read body language the way I do.

When the question was asked and Floyd said absolutely nothing, he actually almost looked in the other direction. He actually started to like look away from the camera instead of towards the camera.

And really, it’s not like he flinched. He didn’t do a lot of movement. It was very subtle. But by sometimes not saying something, that does mean that you’re saying a lot.

And pretty much what he said is, “Why are you asking me a question? I don’t answer questions. You need to give me a statement. You need to tell me that you’re going to give me 150 million up front and that you’re going to give me my kickback on the pay-per-view, and then we can start to actually negotiate. And you’ll get some answers but not from asking questions.”

You see what I’m saying? That’s the way Floyd Mayweather thinks. He’s a very smart and brilliant businessman, tremendous fighter. They’re both past their prime. Floyd beat him once.

Floyd’s silent talk is really him saying, “Show me – give me a statement, not a question, of $150 million up front, whatever the numbers may be. It just needs to be pleasing to the ears” before Floyd will consider it.

But it’s really hard for any human being to not take $100 million or greater for a 36-minute performance. I believe if Floyd was to make half of what he did against Pacquiao the first time, it’s still worth it. It’s still worth it, man.

They’re both past their prime. Floyd is just a very slick boxer even though he does throw one punch at a time, similar to what Adrien Broner did. He just does it way more effectively. He has better defense, better movement throughout the ring with the ring awareness.

And he beat him once. I think he would beat him twice and I think Manny Pacquiao would be able to retire happily after such a paycheck. So that’s why I say the likelihood in my opinion is 90%.

Of course I would love to be wrong. I would love to be wrong because that would open up doors for me. Hopefully, hopefully it would open up doors for me to negotiate against the legend Manny Pacquiao, but we’ll see. There’s tons of opportunities at 147, so regardless, I still have a beautiful job.

Q
Do you think he would beat Pacquiao in similar fashion to last time or worse?

K. Thurman
I think probably similar. It could end up being worse. All it takes is the right connection at the right time. But it should be similar. Floyd is just very cautious. He potshots and he’s just very accurate when he does so.

Throughout his whole career, he was snapping heads back, hitting them with that jab to the body, doing little curve ball change-ups — slow, fast — doing his best to be very unpredictable. And yes, I think he would just craftily coast his way to victory once again.

Q
So what has it been like to deal with that backlash of being out of the ring for you?

K. Thurman
I can care less what people say and what they think about Keith Thurman and, “Oh, he’s ducking guys. He’s getting injured to avoid people.” I’m a seven-figure fighter, there’s a lot of money out there to be made.

And I’ve worked really hard my whole life since the age of seven. I’m 30 now. There’s just a lot of people that really don’t understand what it means to be a world-class fighter.

So a lot of opinions just really don’t get to me. If anything, some of them were humorous and my favorite, you know – I’m Keith “One-Time” Thurman. I’m Keith “Run-Time” Thurman, Keith “Sometime” Thurman, Keith “Once-Upon-a-Time” Thurman. That was pretty amusing.

Q
How painful was it when you incurred this hand injury? And how much concern do you have that this could be a chronic type thing that you have to deal with over and over again?

K. Thurman
Well, when it occurred, it was painful enough to where it hurt to land a jab on my sparring partner with 16-ounce gloves. So that’s when I knew, if I can’t punch my sparring partner with a jab, I’m not going to have a fight date.

In the back of my head, yes, we’re a little worried about things going into the future, but we’re also doing our best to stay positive because we feel great. We’re ready for this fight. And I just want my health to hold up because I just want to be an active fighter at the top of the welterweight division once again.

And no matter what happens, I believe that I will be able to do that, even if I do have to monitor things. Maybe I do have to make adjustments in my fight style or things of that nature. I’ll do whatever it takes to continuously showcase the skills and talents that I have.

I’ve always been versatile. And there’s many ways to get to the finish line when it comes to a 12-round championship bout. I didn’t knock out Shawn. I didn’t knock out Danny. I’m hard to beat even if I’m not trying to knock you out. So at the end of the day, I have confidence.

Q
What did you learn about yourself in this 22-month layoff?

K. Thurman
The longest layoff prior to this was a 14-month layoff. So I’ve had layoffs in my career. I didn’t learn anything new from that aspect.

But what I did learn is a little bit about getting back in shape, because some people would think, “Was he still training? Was he doing this and that?” And not being able to punch – first, my elbow was hurt. I couldn’t punch with my right hand. So I don’t want to be hitting the bag with only my left.

And then I hurt my left and now my right’s good. I don’t want to just really hit the bag with just my right. So it was a little depressing. So I ended up not doing a lot.

And once when I felt good and I knew we were going to create a fight date, I had to tell myself, “Hey, man. You’ve got to wake up. You’ve got to get moving. And you’ve got to be a champion again.” And I knew I could do it. But I learned a lot in the process of doing it.

I also believe that I learned that even though I can do it, I should not. There’s many things in life that you could do that are things that you should not do. So yes, I can get back in shape in ten weeks’ time and I can be ready to perform a 12-round fight.

I did start moving around before – a little bit before prior just ten weeks, but real camp was about a ten-week camp. So at the end of the day I would love to stay healthy and stay active. And even if I’m not healthy, I think I’m ready to stay active.

Take a Tom Brady approach to the sport of boxing. Take a Bernard Hopkins approach to the sport of boxing. What I learned is actually I’m still learning it. And I want to carry this into the coming years, especially this year and the further years down the line. So that’s pretty much what I’ve gotten from this experience.

Q
Are you saying that you want to fight over 40 years old?

K. thurman
No. It’s always been my lifelong dream to retire young and successful. I just keep debating what young age that is, especially with some career setbacks. But I would like to have an option to retire, but maybe not necessarily need to retire.

In reference to Manny Pacquiao, Bernard Hopkins, and Tom Brady, even Floyd Mayweather — really when I look at these individuals, it’s really just inspiring for a man in my situation. It’s very inspiring.

It really keeps me in a positive light, even witnessing Pacquiao win the other weekend. After he won, I pulled a Floyd Mayweather and I ended up running three miles in the rain at 2:30 in the morning.

It’s just something about seeing a 40-year-old man being victorious just said, “You’ve got this. It doesn’t matter what God throws at you, what obstacles. You’re here for a reason and you’ve got this.”

Not every individual is an individual. Some people have greater success than others. I’m not here to go tit for tat with any champion of the world. I’m here for my own story. I’m here for my own legacy.

Q
What concerns you most about Lopez this weekend, going into the fight this weekend?

K. Thurman
His confidence. He shouldn’t have any. What’s up with that?

But in all seriousness, I’m interested in seeing where this confidence comes from. There’s got to be a logical reason. Where’s it coming from.

I know he knows he’s a little smarter. He’s maybe he’s a little stronger. Maybe he just feels faster. I don’t know. He’s going to have to show me where this confidence comes from.

He’s fully aware of my boxing style and that I do bring a lot into the ring, speed, power, movement. Yet he’s still confident. So I want to see what that’s all about Saturday night.

He’s had tough fights. He’s a real dog. He doesn’t mind mixing it up. And I’m prepared for that. But I just feel like maybe he is a new Josesito Lopez. But what is new? I’ll find out in a few days.

Q
Can you promise an explosive performance on Saturday night? Or is this fight more about making sure your body is 100%? What can fans look forward to?

K. Thurman
Really, I just want to have fun. I want to have fun. I want to move around the ring. I want to see how much I can mix it up. It’s been so long since I’ve been punched by eight-ounce gloves. So there’s just a lot to look forward to for myself, for the fans.

I’ve been very accurate in camp. I do feel sharp. And I just want to know how this sharpness is going to play out against another man that’s prepared for this 12-round performance.

Am I going to be able to land my counters the moment that I want to land them? Is everything really going to go my way? Is it going to be smooth? Is it going to be rough? Is it going to be tough? But the fans should expect to see a world-class performance from world-class fighters, especially from myself.

I’m going to do what I always do. I’m going to be looking to land some big punches and I’m going to be looking to win the rounds. Because if you’re not getting the knockout, you still want to win the fight.

So we’ll see what happens. And like I said, at the end of the day, it’s going to be fun. 22 months and Keith One-Time Thurman is back.

Q
What are the toughest aspects of returning after the layoff? Is it physical or mental or timing or stamina or what exactly for you?

K. Thurman
Well, for me, probably the biggest one — which I still feel confident about — is the timing. Like I said, my timings were sharp against the sparring partners, but I’m not fighting my sparring partners. And neither is he fighting his sparring partners.

So at the end of the day, I just hope that I can do what Ben Getty used to always say. “If you do your homework, you pass the test.” I just hope that in the gym, when two plus two equals four Saturday night, two plus two equals four, that really there shouldn’t be a new equation.

This is boxing. I know how to handle myself in the ring. I know how to scope out my opponent, look for the openings, and piece my punches together at the right moments. And that’s what I’m looking forward to Saturday night.

Q
Do you have to do anything differently than you did earlier in your career aside from coming back from the layoff?

K. Thurman
The only thing differently that I really made sure that I did because of the layoff is I just guarantee myself ten weeks of a real training camp over the allotted eight weeks that I normally do. And I might need to continue that at this stage and at this age just to guarantee that I stay sharp and that I can’t say to myself, “You didn’t give yourself enough time to prepare for the fight.”

# # #

ABOUT PBC ON FOX & FOX DEPORTES: THURMAN VS. LOPEZ
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes is headlined by the return of WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman defending his title against veteran contender Josesito López on Saturday, January 26 live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and the East Coast home of PBC. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising unbeaten Polish heavyweight Adam Kownacki taking on former title challenger Gerald Washington, plus a 12-round featherweight showdown between Claudio Marrero and Tugstsogt Nyambayar.

PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and will feature junior lightweight prospect Chris Colbert taking on once-beaten Josh Hernandez in an eight-round bout, plus 2016 U.S. Olympian Antuanne Russell facing Roberto Almazán in a six/eight round super lightweight attraction, and super welterweight prospect Chordale Booker meeting Juan De Ángel for eight-rounds of action.

Tickets for the show begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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




MUSHIN CASON AND JONNIE RICE RETURN TO THE RING THIS SATURDAY IN MEXICO

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 24, 2019) – Undefeated cruiserweight Muhsin “The Spartan” Cason (3-0, 1 KOs), and heavyweight Jonnie Rice (9-3, 5 KOs), both who are managed by Prince Ranch Boxing’s Greg Hannley, are scheduled to fight in Tijuana, MX, this Saturday Jan. 26, 2019. The two prospects will fight in separate 4-round bouts.

Cason, who is the younger brother of former two-time heavyweight world champion, Hasim Rahman, stands 6’3. Guiding his corner will be veteran boxing coach, Kevin Henry. Cason feels he has the skills to compete with anyone in the cruiserweight division.

“I’ve been sparring with some top-level guys in the gym and I’m confident in my capabilities,” said Mushin Cason, “My bother Hasim is showing me the ropes. I’m going into this fight in Mexico with bad intentions on my mind. My goal is to end this fight early.”

With former world champion Wayne McCullough guiding his corner, Jonnie Rice feels his career is about to take off. This will be the third fight with McCullough in Rice’s corner.

“All I needed was a good coach to teach me the fundamentals,” said Jonnie Rice. “I’m learning how to set everything up with my jab. The combinations I’m throwing now are deadly. This weekend I’m gunning for win number ten.”

“Johnnie and Mushin have been training hard in the gym and I’m anticipating both of them to have spectacular performances,” said Greg Hannely of Prince Ranch Boxing. “I want both of them to stay busy this year. It starts this weekend in Mexico.”

Hasim Rahman, who is also part of the Prince Ranch Boxing management team, believes Mushin can be something special in the cruiserweight division.

“My bother Mushin is getting better with each fight,” stated Rahman. “I know he has the talent to become something in this sport. He works hard and is dedicated. This Saturday he’s going to take of business.”




Crowley and McLellan All-Canadian Grudge Match Reaching the Boiling Point

The all-Canadian grudge match between CPBC Canadian and International Super Welterweight Champion Cody “The Crippler” Crowley and former Canadian champion Stuart McLellan is heating to a boil on social media, and the two freely trade insults in a newly released video.

The undefeated newcomer Crowley (16-0, 9 KOs) will defend his titles against the well-respected veteran McLellan (25-2-3, 10 KOs) in a 12-round shootout on Saturday, February 9, at the Memorial Centre in Crowley’s hometown of Peterborough, Ontario.

The event, presented by Crowley’s own CCC Promotions, is entitled “Homecoming IV- Bad Blood.”

Tickets for “Homecoming IV- Bad Blood” are priced at $62.15, $39.55 and $28.25 and are available at www.memorialcentre.ca. VIP Floor Tickets are also available through CCC Promotions (text or call 705.927.3265).

The two have been going back and forth with increasing intensity since their showdown was announced.

“He’s delusional,” says Crowley in the video. “He’s nothing but a spoiled brat,” counters McLellan.

25-year-old Crowley has become well-known in the gyms of his adopted home of Las Vegas. Working with an arm’s length list of world champions including Floyd Mayweather Jr., and having former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman’s brother Ibn Cason as a trainer, Crowley has gained a reputation as Canada’s next big thing… a claim that the veteran McLellan strongly disputes.

“You’re not a real fighter, Cody,” says McLellan. “You know what happens when the hard worker meets a spoiled bitch, man.”

“This guy has been hating on everything I do from the moment I moved to Vegas,” responds Crowley. “The dude doesn’t know enough is enough. The only way to show him and shut him up is with my fists.”

On fight night, doors open at 6 pm, with the first fight starting at 7 pm. The Memorial Centre is located at 151 Lansdowne Street in Peterborough. The Memorial Centre is a 4,329-seat multi-purpose arena. Built in 1956, it is now home to the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League and the Peterborough Lakers of the Major Series Lacrosse league. For more information, visit www.memorialcentre.ca.




DEONTAY WILDER’S BROTHER AND HARD-HITTING TALENT MARSELLOS ADDED TO THE BIG O2 FIGHT CARD

London (24 January 2019) Poxon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) are thrilled to announce that Marsellos Wilder, the younger brother of WBC World Heavyweight Champion Deontay, will make his UK debut on the blockbuster show at The O2 on Saturday 23rd February, exclusively LIVE on ITV Box Office.

The first big British boxing show of 2019 and PBC’s premiere event in the UK has set the standards high and Wilder joins a huge list of star names on the show headlined with the mouthwatering clash between grudge rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr., supported with the explosive showdown between Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Joe Joyce and Former World Champion Bermane Stiverne, plus the return of Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby.

With Deontay, the “Bronze Bomber”, holding the WBC crown and coming off a thrilling fight against Tyson Fury to defend his title, fast-rising star Marsellos is creating a name for himself in the division below at Cruiserweight where he’s undefeated in three fights with two knockouts.

The 29-year-old from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, first fights this Saturday night in Brooklyn, New York, when he faces Will Florentino on the PBC show headlined by the highly-anticipated return of WBA World Welterweight Champion Keith Thurman against battle-hardened contender Josesito Lopez, televised live in the UK on ITV4.

Marsellos will then follow in the footsteps of Deontay, who stopped Olympic Champion Audley Harrison inside a round in Sheffield in April 2013, by having his first fight in the UK as he builds towards joining his older sibling in becoming a World Champion and Deontay will accompany Marsellos on his first excursion to the UK.

He said, “I feel super duper blessed. I’m grateful to get this ultimate experience to be able to go to another country and showcase my talents to another culture. I’m going to give it my all and give it my best for the fans in the UK and represent the U.S.”

“It’s going to be great to have my brother who is the Heavyweight Champion of the World to be able to watch me perform in the UK. It brings me a lot of motivation and pride to be able to perform in the UK and represent our last name. That’s amazing.”

Deontay beamed, “I think it’s a grand deal for him to be able to display his talent before the UK fans. Boxing is very popular there. It’s going to be fun to be able to root him on. It’s going to be good for him to get that experience outside of the U.S. I’m very excited for him. I’m looking forward to coming over there and being with the fans and to show support for that fact that we’re teamed with ITV and we’ll be doing PBC shows there.”

Marsellos was a highly talented football player with plans to enter the NFL, but was encouraged to enter boxing by Deontay who said he’d be perfect to fight in the Cruiserweight division with his size and athleticism.

He had a baptism of fire for the first time he ever went through the ropes when he had to spar against Deontay, then a World Champion, but it proved to be motivational moment for him and after only seven fights in the amateurs he quickly made the move to becoming a professional.

Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from www.sportandmusic.co.uk

This fight will be shown exclusively on ITV Box Office. For further information and updates, please go to www.itvboxoffice.com

NOTE TO EDITORS: Please clearly credit ITV Box Office in any published material

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK.

The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK. The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivalled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US. PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States.

The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office.

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open.




THANDERZ TARGETS TITLES AS SHE RETURNS ON MARCH 2

Katharina Thanderz (10-0, 2 KOs) returns from injury to face Rachel Ball (4-0) as chief support for Kai Robin Havnaa’s cruiserweight showdown with Rad ‘Thunder’ Rashid on March 2 at the SØR Amfi in Arendal.

Thanderz was scheduled to defend her European Super Featherweight title against Elhem Mekhaled on December 22, but suffered a herniated cervical disc in sparring, forcing her to withdraw from the contest and vacate her title.

Now fully recorded, the undefeated former EBU and WBC International Champion plans to kick-start the year with a victory over the unbeaten Brit Rachel Ball before targeting more titles in 2019.

“I’m really looking forward to fighting in Arendal on March 2. It has been several months since I was last in the ring, and I feel a huge motivation to be back again. The fact that I will be boxing in the country I was born makes it even more exciting,” says Thanderz, who currently resides Alicante, Spain.

“I was injured during a sparring session when preparing to defend my EBU title, and it was quite complicated for a while. I had to stop training completely and I was unable to spar, but I’m completely healed now. I started sparring again two weeks ago, and I feel absolutely great.

“I will be training in Spain for this fight, doing my boxing training at the Vista Gym in La Nucia with my boxing coach Jesus Labradador, and my physical exercises with Christian Marcet at Odin Athletes. We plan on bringing over two sparring partners to ensure I am one hundred percent ready for the fight. One of them is Nina Bradley from the UK, who I have trained with in the past.

“I think Rachel Ball seems like a tough fighter, and I am sure she will come well prepared to face me. She is also unbeaten at the moment, so I expect she will be hungry for victory. Nevertheless, I will be more prepared than ever, and I’m looking forward to ending the fight with 11-0 as my new record.

“My goal for the rest of the year is to have a active 2019 with several fights, get back my European Title, and then aim for some bigger belts!”

Kai Robin Havnaa returns to the SØR Amfi in Arendal on March 2 to headline his hometown arena in his toughest career test against Rad Rashid.

Katharina Thanderz provides chief support with an eight-round super featherweight clash against Rachel Ball, Hadi Srour meets Zoltan Szabo in a six-round super lightweight contest, while middleweight Anders Eggan faces Frane Radnic over six-rounds. More undercard fights to be announced shortly.

Tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.no or by calling (+47) 22 82 81 97.




JAIME MUNGUIA VS. TAKESHI INOUE HOUSTON MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES


HOUSTON (Jan. 23, 2019): Mexican warrior Jaime Munguia (31-0, 26 KOs) and Japanese contender Takeshi Inoue (13-0-1, 7 KOs) hosted a media workout today at The Knockout Factory in Houston, Texas ahead of their 12-round battle for Munguia’s WBO Junior Middleweight World Title. The action will take place on Saturday, Jan. 26 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN – which is just $9.99 per month after a one-month free trial. Fans in Houston can purchase tickets starting at just $25 at ToyotaCenter.com.

Undercard fighters from the event also participated in the workout. Below is what today’s participants had to say at today’s workout:

JAIME MUNGUIA, WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion:
“I’m really happy to be here in Houston and happy to see how they treat me here. I’m ready to defend my title and give a great fight to my fans. Thanks for your support and I hope to give you a great show this Saturday.”

“There’s a lot of competition at 154 pounds. I’m willing to fight all of them. I’m happy to start the year off early. I fight when I’m told to fight, so I’m glad that I’m already fighting in January. If they put four fights in front of me for this year, then I’ll fight four times. I’m happy to be with the two best promoters of the world, Golden Boy and Zanfer promotions. I thank them for all the support they give me.”

TAKESHI INOUE, Junior Middleweight Contender:
“I’ve always idolized the U.S. since I was little and coming here, seeing the environment and food, I was born to fit into this environment. The jet lag is gone and everything is back to normal and I feel good. I’m in good shape. In the U.S., the focus on the fighters from media and fight fans are stronger than in Japan but what doesn’t change is my desire to win the fight and I’m going to keep that the same. I’m ready for Saturday’s fight.”

JESUS ROJAS, WBA Featherweight World Champion:
“Xu Can is a great fighter and I was very happy to have another opportunity to defend my title. There will be fireworks at the ring this Saturday night.”

XU CAN, Featherweight Contender:
“I am very excited for Saturday. I was training for 10 days in Miami and feel good. I’m excited and eager to win a fight for my Chinese fans.”

VERGIL ORTIZ JR., Super Lightweight Contender:
“I’m very excited because I haven’t fought since September. I kept training, though. I only took a week off and went back to the gym. It’s an honor to be promoted by Oscar De La Hoya. He has opened a lot of opportunities for me. I hope to be a world champion by the end of the year or earlier next year.”

“What makes me different from other fighters is that I work hard every day, even if I don’t have a fight lined up. I’m always ready. A knockout would be great. But as long as I long as I look good and I get some experience, I’ll be happy.”

ALEX RINCON, Super Welterweight Prospect:
“Training camp went great! I did some good sparring and I felt fast, I got a lot of work in. I sparred with Lamont Peterson and did really good work. It feels great to be in Houston, anywhere in Texas feels like home. We have a huge fan crowd and I can’t wait for Saturday night.”

GEORGE RINCON, Super Lightweight Prospect:
“Training camp started in Texas, and it went really well. We finished in DC with Lamont Roach Sr. My weight’s good, I’m feeling strong. Houston feels like home. We have lots of family and friends. It feels great to be here, and we want to thank everyone for coming out, and especially to Golden Boy for having me and my brother here.”

Munguia vs. Inoue is a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Zanfer Promotions and Teiken Promotions. Rojas vs. Can is a 12-round fight for the WBA Featherweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Universal Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas and will be streamed live on DAZN.

CREDENTIALS: Fight night credentials may be picked up from the Media Check-In doors located next to the Administration Entrance to Toyota Center on LaBranch Street and Clay Street beginning at 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Proper personal Photo ID (driver’s license or passport) must be shown to claim your credential.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Inoue are on sale now and are priced at $150, $100, $60, $40 and $25 plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased online at
www.ToyotaCenter.com and by phone at 1-866-4-HOU-TIX. Tickets will also be available at the Toyota Center Box Office.

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

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying
and pasting the link http://bit.ly/January26DAZN into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy Promotions for any photo and/or video usage.

About DAZN:
Globally, DAZN is a live and on-demand sports streaming service created by fans, for fans, that is leading the charge to provide access to sports anytime, anywhere. DAZN guarantees no long-term contract, no bundles, just one affordable price for access to all the service’s sports on connected devices including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, games consoles and PCs. DAZN is currently available in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Japan, Canada, Italy and now the U.S. at just $9.99 per month after a one-month free trial – where it is becoming a must-have service for sports fans, with a daily show featuring live look-ins to Major League Baseball games beginning in 2019 and more than 100 fight nights already lined up from Matchroom Boxing, Bellator MMA, the World Boxing Super Series, Combate Americas and the recently announced Golden Boy Promotions.

About Toyota Center:
Since opening in October 2003, Toyota Center has set a new standard for sports and
entertainment, becoming one of the premier live entertainment venues in the nation. Laid
over the span of six city blocks, Toyota Center is home to the NBA’s Houston Rockets. Toyota Center also plays host to the nation’s top concerts and touring shows. The arena’s playing surface is set nearly 32-feet below street level giving Toyota Center the largest lower level of any arena in the nation. Coupled with the exclusive Lexus Lounge, trendy Golden Nugget Club, Red and White Bistro’s superior food and service, Toyota Center offers something for everyone making it the hottest spot for sports and entertainment in Houston. For more information, visit
www.houstontoyotacenter.com.




KEITH THURMAN vs. JOSESITO LOPEZ FIGHT WEEK MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES


BROOKLYN (January 23, 2019) – As fight week begins for the first Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes event of 2019, welterweight world champion Keith Thurman and veteran contender Josesito López took part in a media workout at Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn on Wednesday before they headline action this Saturday, January 26 from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Televised coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features additional participants from Wednesday’s workout including rising Polish heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki and former title challenger Gerald Washington, who meet in a 10-round attraction, and hard-hitting featherweights Claudio Marrero and Tugstsogt Nyambayar, who meet in a 12-round showdown.

Wednesday’s event also saw unbeaten Brooklyn prospect Chris Colbert, who takes on once-beaten Josh Hernandez in PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes that begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

KEITH THURMAN

“We’re back in Brooklyn, it’s been a long time and I’m happy. I feel slim and trim. Everything is great headed into Saturday.

“I had a lot of ups and downs, but once we got into camp, we did what we had to do. We slowly improved each day and now we’re ready. It was a slow start, but we’re going to be finishing strong on Saturday.

“When I’m outside of the ring, I’m not the jealous type watching other people perform. But I feel better when I’m here living out my dream. These past weeks, I have just felt so good. I feel fantastic and ready to perform. I’m going to be an active fighter and one of the best welterweights in the world today.

“My ranking, my ‘0’ and my accomplishments haven’t gone anywhere. I’ve been out of sight and out of mind for a little, but I’m back now. You can’t block a star from shining. We’re in the galaxy and shining bright.

“I’m definitely interested in a big unification fight with Errol Spence Jr. When I first met Errol at MGM Grand years ago, I told him that it’s nice to meet him and I can’t wait to get in there and scrap it out. I’m humble, but I’m also honest. I’m a man of my word. It doesn’t matter how many years ago that I said it, but from that day to this day, it’s a true statement.”

JOSESITO LOPEZ

“I’m confident in my abilities. Talk is cheap to me. What other people say makes no difference to me. I’ve come here to do a job and I’m going to do it.

“I know that I have a tough task ahead of me, but I also know that I can do it. I can pass this test. I’m ready for it. We’ve prepared right and everything is lined up. We worked hard for 10 weeks and now it’s time.

“It’s hard to say if Keith will be my toughest opponent, but he definitely has a great resume and is a great champion. I’ve fought some great guys but I’m taking this as the most important fight of my career.

“I think that since I started working with Robert Garcia, all of my skills are on par with Keith Thurman. Most importantly, I’m a much smarter fighter than I’ve ever been. I’m always going to be courageous in the ring, but we’ve developed a game plan where I take less unnecessary risks.

“The most important thing in my game plan is for me to dictate the pace. I need to control the ring throughout the fight. I’m prepared for however he brings the fight.”

ADAM KOWNACKI

“It’s going to be a sea of red and white on Saturday. The Polish fans are unbelievable and I can’t wait to go out there and get a knockout for them.

“I think I’ve improved my speed heading into this fight. I feel great. It’s been a long camp leading up to this huge card. I have to come out at my top condition. I made a slight statement against Charles Martin, and I’m going to make a bigger one against Gerald Washington.

“I definitely want to outdo the performances of Deontay Wilder and my friend Jarrell Miller against Washington. I want to have bragging rights. I want that knockout.

“Washington has fought contenders, good fighters and a guy I lost to in the amateurs in Nagy Aguilera. He’s proven that he’s game, and I’m expecting the best version of him. I’ll be ready.

“Boxing is a skill, not a bodybuilding contest. I proved my conditioning last fight by throwing 70 punches a round. I’m in ever better shape right and I feel great.”

GERALD WASHINGTON

“We know where we want to be and we know this is a stepping stone to getting back there. I have to take the hard road and this is it. We’re prepared, we’re ready and I’m looking forward to January 26.

“Any of the top heavyweights would be great to fight, but I’m taking it one fight at a time. This is going to be an action-packed fight.

“I have the total package. We’ll see everything I learned from my last fights and see if it makes a difference now.

“I know that Kownacki is going to come forward. I know what kind of fighter he is. I didn’t come here to lose. I came here to win and get back on the right track and into contention to win the heavyweight title.

“Styles make fights. I was doing very well in the Deontay Wilder fight, similar to what Tyson Fury was doing. This is a different type of fight. You’re going to see my skills come to life to contain this man.”

CLAUDIO MARRERO

“We went through a very serious, 10-week camp because we know that we’re here to fight a very strong fighter. I’ve taken everything to the fullest each day with intense work in training camp. I’m ready.

“We respect our opponent, but he’s coming to our weight division. I’ve been making this weight ever since I was a pro. In his last fight, he was dropped by Oscar Escandon, who’s a very good fighter, but he’s a smaller guy.

“We believe that this is the beginning of something beautiful. I’m going to be at the top of the rankings after this fight. We believe that winning this fight is going to take us back to the top level.

“I understand that this is my time to shine. I’m more focused and dedicated than I’ve ever been and it’s going to show in the ring on Saturday night.”

TUGSTSOGT NYAMBAYAR

“I feel good and strong. I’ve had a great camp and I’m ready for Saturday night. I’m going to give a great show for the fans in my Brooklyn debut.

“I put everything into camp and I’m going to show it in the ring on Saturday night. I’m here to win and show off my athleticism. I believe I can do everything in the ring.

“Claudio Marrero is a good tough contender who’s been at this level for quite some time. He’s a good boxer who can punch, so we prepared for everything. He may have more pro experience, but I believe I have more boxing experience than Marrero. I’ve seen everything throughout the world.

“Now it’s just a matter of cultivating my skills and experience into becoming a world championship fighter. In this fight, I’m going to dictate the style of the fight. It’s going to go down on my terms.”

CHRIS COLBERT

“I’m going to go out there and dominate like I always do. I don’t have any resolutions for 2019. I’m just going to do the same thing and keep being great.

“New year, same me. I’m out here chasing greatness. I’m looking to keep winning and work my way to a world title. I’m not just talk, I’m the real deal.

“I don’t believe that you can be rushed into a world title fight. I’m ready. I don’t care if I’m considered a prospect for a contender, I’m just going to show everyone that I’m no fluke. I do this differently.

“I always fight for a cause and this time I’ve got my hair dyed pink for breast cancer awareness. It’s for my mom and all of the other survivors and people going through this.”

# # #

ABOUT PBC ON FOX & FOX DEPORTES: THURMAN VS. LOPEZ
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes is headlined by the return of WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman defending his title against veteran contender Josesito López on Saturday, January 26 live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and the East Coast home of PBC. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising unbeaten Polish heavyweight Adam Kownacki taking on former title challenger Gerald Washington, plus a 12-round featherweight showdown between Claudio Marrero and Tugstsogt Nyambayar.

PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and will feature junior lightweight prospect Chris Colbert taking on once-beaten Josh Hernandez in an eight-round bout, plus 2016 U.S. Olympian Antuanne Russell facing Roberto Almazán in a six/eight round super lightweight attraction, and super welterweight prospect Chordale Booker meeting Juan De Ángel for eight-rounds of action.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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




Pedro Moreno Makes Headlining Debut Friday, Feb. 8 on “New Blood”

ORANGE, Calif. (Jan. 23, 2019) – Junior welterweight Pedro Moreno (11-0, 7 KOs) makes his headlining debut on Thompson Boxing’s “New Blood” event on Friday, Feb. 8, from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

The power-punching Moreno faces fellow unbeaten talent Ramon Mascarena (10-0, 5 KOs) in the eight-round main event.

Moreno, 21, hails from Sacramento, Calif. and as a 15-year-old, took home the Silver Gloves Championship in the 110-pound division. Moreno, who yielded a 50-5 record as an amateur, was also a member of the U.S. Junior Olympic team. Those accomplishments, while indeed noteworthy, pale in comparison to his most recent development.

“It means the world to me to be showcased in the main event,” said Moreno, who is trained by Marcus Caballero. “Every boxer wants to headline as quickly as possible after turning professional.”

The graduation to main event status comes after recording four impressive wins last year, the last two coming by way of knockout. Standing in front Moreno’s undefeated mark is the Chilean Mascarena, who is known for his fast starts.

“He’s going to be a tough opponent,” said Moreno. “He comes forward a lot and likes to deliver pressure. I like to fight the same way. When two fighters like to attack, you know it’s going to be a war.”

To prepare for Mascarena, Moreno, who entered the paid ranks three years ago, has been sparring with unbeaten prospects Andy Vences and Xavier Martinez.

“I’ve been putting a lot of work into this training camp,” said Moreno, who signed with Thompson Boxing last year. “I’m getting some great sparring and working on my head movement. Whatever he brings, I’ll be ready for it.”

Tickets for “New Blood” are priced at $40, $60, & $100, and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900, or online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

In the “New Blood” co-feature, bantamweight Mario Hernandez (8-0-1, 3 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif. meets Luis Fernando Saavedra (7-6, 3 KOs) of Mexico (6-rounds).

UNDERCARD

Lightweight standout Ruben Torres (7-0, 6 KOs) of Los Angeles will face an opponent to be named later (6-rounds).

Local favorite Luis Lopez (5-0, 3 KOs) of nearby Corona, Calif. fights welterweight Adan Ahumada (3-6-2, 2 KOs) of Mexico (4-rounds).

Additionally, super welterweight Richard Brewart (3-0, 1 KO) of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. meets Abel Reyes (4-2, 4 KOs) of Mexico in a bout set for four rounds.

Opening “New Blood” is lightweight prospect George Acosta (6-0, 1 KO) of Whittier, Calif. The unbeaten Acosta will fight an opponent to be named later (4-rounds).

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel, and ThompsonBoxing.com.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET.

The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave., Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at 909-937-0900.

“New Blood” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. To follow the conversation on social media, please use #NewBlood, #TBPresents, and #ThompsonBoxing.

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




SMITH VS. EGGINGTON + UNDERCARD PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES


Eddie Hearn:

“Wow – what a turnout. I love this place. Liverpool is so unique. I don’t get as many boos here as I do in most cities! We’re delighted to be here. I never thought that I’d sit next to this man on my right (Liam Smith). We’ve wanted him for about three or four years but finally Liam is where he should be, with us at Matchroom and Sky. We’re delighted to announce a major show on March 30th at the M&S Bank Arena. I think this is one of the best cards we’ve put on in Liverpool for a long time. Three really good Championship fights on the top table. It’s going to be a great night.”

Liam Smith – Liverpool, England – 26-2-1, 14 KO’s – fighting Sam Eggington in a Super-Welterweight contest:

“I’m in a vital part of my career now. I think Sam is a good opponent to get started. I wouldn’t want a big southpaw coming for my first fight under you. I’ve got to put in a performance that makes you think you’re right in signing me at this stage.

“On that note, I feel it’s a bad part of Sam to take the fight at this moment.”

On the Canelo and Munguia defeats:

“Those two fights, proper like night and day for me. Obviously the ‘Canelo’ fight, we all know how good he is – he was one, two, three steps ahead of me, everything I tried, but I’ll stay in there and tough it out with anyone, if necessary, if I can do.

“The Munguia fight, I feel the momentum killed me. I had one fight in 10 months. He had five fights in 2018. In that fight, he was very, very green, and he wasn’t experienced.

“Things that I could try early doors were just coming off, and then obviously he kicked in and I started to fade towards the back end, he didn’t.

“That’s a fight I would definitely love again down the line with momentum. That’s a big part of signing for Matchroom. I feel they’ve got the dates, enough pull around the world to keep me busy.”

Sam Eggington – Stourbridge, England – 23-5, 15 KO’s – fighting Liam Smith in a Super-Welterweight contest:
“I’m buzzing with this fight, I didn’t expect any sort of fight like this, to get someone like Liam Smith, a former World Champion.

“Like you say, I haven’t got no pressure, I’m just going to put the work in, and come up on the blind side and get a win that no-one is going to expect.

“They’ve always been good, competitive spars. Probably could have sold tickets for a few of them on their own, so come March 30, it will be a fight not to miss.”

Joe Hughes – Malmesbury, England – 17-3-1, 7 KO’s – fighting Robbie Davies Jnr. for the British and EBU European Super-Lightweight titles:

“I’m really excited to be going into such a big fight. In the past I’ve found myself get a little bit complacent if I’m not really up for a fight, if it’s not too much of a challenge, but I know this one is going to be a very big challenge. The motivation is to not only defend my European title but to win that prestigious Lonsdale belt.

“I was on a lot of small hall shows trying to shift tickets early on in my career and I’m from a small place, it was a bit of a struggle. I’m where I feel I deserve to be right now. A win here moves me further along to a shot at World honours.”

Robbie Davies Jnr. – Liverpool, England – 17-1, 12 KO’s – fighting Joe Hughes for the British and European Super-Lightweight titles:

“Everyone close to me knows what I was going through at the time of my first loss. I was in a bad place. Since that defeat I’ve rebuilt and luckily I’ve joined up with Matchroom.

“Beating Glenn Foot for the British was a real big step in my career. I could have had an easy British title defence but I want to move to that next level. My career has stagnated in the past and I’ve stayed at the same level but now it’s time to push on.

“I made sure that I had my name in contention for this fight. I’ve always wanted to be on these big shows. It’s a massive fight for me – it’s a must win.”

Anthony Fowler – Liverpool, England – 9-0, 8 KO’s – fighting Scott Fitzgerald in a Super-Welterweight contest:

“I am a level above Scott, I know that for a fact. I always have been. As soon as I was an amateur I was better than Scott and under Dave (Coldwell) I have just gone to the next level again.
“I haven’t showed it yet because it has been too easy. We’ve been saying to Eddie Hearn we want proper fights from about a year ago, but this took a long time for it to materialise. This is better for me and worse for Scott.

“I will be ready, 11st on the dot. I’ll be fully prepared and whatever Scott does I’ve got an answer for. I am just a bigger, better, stronger fighter. Five rounds… he’s going to fall.”

Scott Fitzgerald – Preston, England – 11-0, 8 KO’s – fighting Anthony Folwer in a Super-Welterweight contest:
“It’s a fight that I’m really looking forward to. I always knew this fight was going to happen. I’m the underdog going into this fight which is fine by me.

“Every day I wake up and I’m really motivated. I’m grafting at least two or three times a day, recovering and resting right. I was after this fight as soon as it was mentioned. I broke my hand in my last fight, this fight was meant to happen at the end of last year.

“I feel like I’ve turned 27 and finally grown up. Every day I’m doing what has to be done and that’s not just in the gym, I’m coming home and eating the right things and enjoying doing it because I don’t want to lose this fight. I want to win it and I know I can win it.”

David Price – Liverpool, England – 23-6, 19 KO’s – Heavyweight contest:

“I’m looking forward to it. It’s ten years to the weekend that I turned pro and I haven’t even had 30 fights yet. I haven’t got much mileage on the clock, that’s the truth. I’ve had six stoppage defeats, two of them have been genuine knockouts. The other four, I’ve kind of beat myself.

“The older I’m getting the wiser I’m getting, more mature. I do still believe that my best years are still to come. I haven’t got many years left but I am looking after myself and living the life. Heavyweights mature later in their careers.

“There’s a lot of big names in the division who all need dance partners and there’s no reason I can’t throw my name back in the mix with a couple more wins. The opportunity is here to do it and I appreciate it greatly. I intend on delivering on March 30.”

Craig Glover – Liverpool, England – 9-1, 8 KO’s – Cruiserweight contest:

“In my last fight I showed everyone a bit more of what I’m all about. Simon Vallily underestimated me. Everyone that steps in the ring with me now will know that I’m real and they won’t underestimate me. I always believed in myself. It wasn’t really a surprise beating Vallily. It was more about showing people that I’m at that level and I think moving forward I’m ready.”

Natasha Jonas – Liverpool, England – 6-1, 5 KO’s – Super-Featherweight contest:

“I know I’ve got the skills. It’s fine doing it all in the gym but you’ve got to produce it on the night. I still don’t feel like I’ve produced my best but it’s coming. Some of my biggest achievements have come after my worst failings. I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring and carrying on.”

Tom Farrell – Liverpool, England – 16-1, 5 KO’s – Super-Lightweight contest:

“Hopefully I’ll get a title shot for this one. I think we’re looking at a shot at the Commonwealth or an international title. Them two up there (Joe Hughes and Robbie Davies Jnr) have got most of the titles at my weight at the minute though.

“Last year wasn’t a great year for me, it was a little bit frustrating but I’ve been patient and stayed in the gym. I’m already feeling fit and strong in the early part of camp. I can’t wait, it’s going to be a great show. I’m hoping to have an opponent named soon. I’m looking forward to the night and I’ll definitely have a belt wrapped around my waist at the end of it.”

Ged Carroll – Liverpool, England – 9-0 – Super-Lightweight contest:

“I’m just glad to be back on such a big show. Hopefully this will be the start of a big year for me. I’m hoping a big sponsor will come along and get behind me. I should get some more attention once the bigger fights come along. I’ve just got to do what I’ve got to do and carry on working hard.”

Tom Hart – Liverpool, England – making his professional debut at Light-Heavyweight:

“I’m just looking forward to it now. I had a great amateur career. I’m looking forward to getting the show on the road in the professionals. I’m lucky to be starting on such a big platform with Matchroom and Sky Sports. There’s a lot of good domestic Light-Heavyweights out there. My style is better suited to the pro game.”




March 17: Michael Conlan Set for St. Patrick’s Day Extravaganza at MSG Against Ruben Garcia Hernandez


NEW YORK CITY (Jan. 23, 2019) — Michael “Mick” Conlan is set to paint the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden green on St. Patrick’s Day for a third consecutive year. The Belfast native, two-time Irish Olympian, and top featherweight prospect packed the Hulu Theater to the rafters in 2017 and 2018 and will return on Sunday, March 17 to face the battle-tested Ruben Garcia Hernandez in the 10-round main event.

Conlan-Hernandez will begin following the conclusion of the annual NYC St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

In the co-feature, former junior featherweight world champion Jessie Magdaleno will face former junior lightweight world title challenger Christopher “Pitufo” Diaz in a 10-round featherweight clash. And, in a crossroads welterweight bout, Brooklyn native and former world champion Luis Collazo will take on Samuel Vargas in a 10-rounder.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets for St. Conlan’s Evening priced at $206, $156, $106, $81, $56, and $31 (including facility fees) go on sale Thursday, Jan. 24 at 12 p.m. ET and can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008), and online at ticketmaster.com and MSG.com.

This special St. Patrick’s Day tripleheader will stream live and exclusively at 6 p.m. ET on ESPN+ — the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN. The soon-to-be-announced undercard will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 3 p.m. ET.

“I’m excited and honored to fight at my home away from home, The Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden, on St. Patrick’s Day for the third consecutive year,” Conlan said. “The fans in New York City have been incredibly supportive of my professional career, and I look forward to putting on a show for them, in addition to my great fans from Ireland who will be coming over for the party in Manhattan. Thanks very much to my team and Top Rank for this tremendous opportunity. I’ll be well prepared for victory to kick off a huge year for me in 2019.”

Conlan (10-0, 6 KOs) turned pro on St. Patrick’s Day 2017 following a storied amateur career that included gold medals at the European Championships, World Championships, and Commonwealth Games. His pro debut — in front of a capacity crowd of 5,201 and including being flanked to the ring by UFC superstar Conor McGregor — was the birth of a superstar. Conlan fought five times apiece in 2017 and 2018, most recently capturing the vacant WBO Intercontinental belt with a unanimous decision over Jason Cunningham on Dec. 22 in Manchester, England. Conlan, who captured a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics, has been dominant in the paid ranks. On St Patrick’s Day 2018, he knocked out David Berna in the second round. Hernandez (24-3-2, 10 KOs) has only been knocked out once as a pro and took four-weight world champion Nonito Donaire the 10-round distance in a 2017 bout.

Magdaleno (25-1, 18 KOs) is moving up four pounds following a world title run at 122 pounds that included one successful title defense. In his last bout, April 28 in Philadelphia, he battled Isaac Dogboe in one of the best fights of 2018. Magdaleno knocked down Dogboe in the opening round, only for Dogboe to rally for an 11th-round knockout. Diaz (24-1, 16 KOs), from Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, climbed the 130-pound rankings until he earned a shot at the vacant WBO title last July 28 versus Masayuki Ito. Diaz was knocked down in the fourth round and lost a unanimous decision in a gutsy showing. He moved down to featherweight and rebounded with a first-round stoppage over David Berna on Nov. 24. Diaz is now training with the legendary Freddie Roach.

“It’s going to be that classic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico battle,” Magdaleno said. “That’s the type of fight that the fans love to see! It’s two warriors that like to scrap and bring excitement, so I know I have to be 100 percent ready, and I’m ready to show the fans that I’m back!”

“Facing Jessie Magdaleno represents a new opportunity to battle against top fighters,” Diaz said. “I don’t like going the easy route. I am a warrior, and I want to face the best. That’s why I always work hard. March 17 will not be different. That will be the time to shine against the best. Magdaleno is a great challenge because he is a former world champion who will come with plans to get a victory that positions him to challenge for a world title in a second division. But that’s also what I want. I want another world title shot, and Magdaleno is in my way. I know that with the great Freddie Roach in my corner, my hunger for triumph, my willingness to leave everything in the ring, and my desire to be the best featherweight in the world, I will achieve my dream of becoming a world champion.”

Collazo (38-7, 20 KOs) is a 19-year-pro and a former welterweight world champion who has faced the likes of “Sugar” Shane Mosley, Ricky Hatton, Amir Khan, Andre Berto, Keith Thurman, and Victor Ortiz. One of the sport’s craftiest veterans, Collazo is coming off a well-earned decision victory over Bryant Perrella (15-1 at the time) and a sixth-round knockout against former top prospect Sammy Vasquez. Vargas (30-4-2, 14 KOs) has faced many of the welterweight division’s leading lights during his nine-year career. Last September, he knocked down Khan in the second round, but was unable to finish Khan off and lost a unanimous decision.

“I’m eager to get back in the ring and show the fans that I’m still an elite welterweight,” Collazo said. “Every time I fight, I give my blood, sweat, and tears. Brooklyn is going to be in the house on March 17. Samuel Vargas is in for a rude awakening. After I take care of business, I’m coming for all the top welterweights.”

“For a kid who came from Colombia with nothing, trying to make a name for himself and a better life for his family, fighting at Madison Square Garden feels like a dream come true,” Vargas said. “I’ve fought on some of the biggest stages in the world, but this is where every fighter envisions themselves fighting. It’s an opportunity I won’t let go to waste.”

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook:
facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.

Use the hashtags #ConlanHernandez and #TheConlanRevolution to follow the action on social media.

About ESPN+

ESPN+, which surpassed one million paying subscribers in just five months, is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer video service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer and International (DTCI) segment and ESPN. It offers fans thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks, along with premium editorial content.

Programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB and NHL, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports), domestic and international soccer (Serie A, MLS, FA Cup, UEFA Nations League, EFL Championship, EFL Carabao Cup, Eredivisie and more), exclusive Top Rank boxing, UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby and cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is an integrated part of the ESPN App, the leading sports app and the premier all-in-one digital sports platform for fans. The ESPN App is a showcase of the company’s culture of innovation, delivering a rich, personalized experience that curates all of ESPN’s content around each fan’s individual tastes. ESPN+ is also available through ESPN.com




FARMER LEADS PACK OF BRISCOE AWARD WINNERS


PHILADELPHIA – Junior lightweight champion Tevin Farmer has been named the “2018 Philly Fighter of the Year” and will receive the Briscoe Award on April 14, 2018. The Philadelphian also earned the award for the “Performance of the Year”, based on his title-winning effort against Billy Dib. Farmer and several other locals will be honored at the 12th Annual Briscoe Awards, a public event held at Xfinity Live! Philadelphia.

The dramatic super middleweight bout between Kalvin Henderson and Brandon Robinson was named the “2018 Philly Fight of the Year”. Henderson won the exciting struggle, but both combatants will take home a Briscoe Award.

Other winners, also determined by fan voting, include – Danny Garcia, “KO of the Year” / Christian Carto, “The One to Watch” / Jeremy Cuevas, “Prospect of the Year” / Samuel Teah, “Upset of the Year” / Paul Kroll, “Rookie of the Year” / Atif Oberlton, “Amateur of the Year”. In addition, one photographer will win a Briscoe Award for the “2018 Photo of the Year”, at the live event on April 14th.

Two honorary Briscoe Awards for lifetime achievement, will also be given at the event. Philadelphia boxing legend Stanley “Kitten” Hayward will be honored for his long and memorable boxing career, as well as his upcoming 80th birthday, and promoter J Russell Peltz will receive an honorary Briscoe to celebrate his 50th year as a boxing promoter.

The Briscoe Awards are named for Philly icon Bennie Briscoe, who had a 20-year boxing career and perfectly embodied the classic Philly fighter.

Philly Boxing History Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit organization and the Briscoe Awards are one of its many public programs designed to honor, remember, and celebrate local ring history in and around the City of Philadelphia.

Tickets for the April 14th event cost $10 each and are available for purchase at BriscoeAwards.com or by calling 609-377-6413. Sponsorships and program advertisements are also available, and help to fund this important public event.
For more information, please call 609-377-6413.




JOYCE FACES ACID TEST AGAINST STIVERNE AT THE O2


London (23 January 2019) Poxon Sports and PBC are delighted to announce that heavyweight sensation Joe Joyce will defend his Commonwealth title in the biggest test of his unbeaten career when he takes a gigantic leap up to confront the Former WBC World Champion Bermane Stiverne on Saturday 23rd February at The O2, exclusively live on ITV Box Office.

Joyce vs. Stiverne, promoted by Poxon Sports in association with Ringstar Sports and Don King Productions, will feature alongside the return of Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby as one of the chief-supporting contests on an action-packed show, headlined with the thrilling all-British clash between fierce rivals James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr.

The 6ft 6in ‘Juggernaut’ from Putney, South West London, has destroyed all seven of his opponents since turning professional in October 2017 after capturing the Silver medal at the Rio Olympics and has singled himself out as one of the most feared talents in the heavyweight division.

It’s a monumental test for Joyce to be facing a former World Champion in just his eighth fight, the rock-solid and sledge-hammer hitting Stiverne, born in Montreal, Canada, of Haitian descent and based out of Las Vegas, has fought some of the biggest and best in the division, including Deontay Wilder and Chris Arreola.

The fight has added bad blood thrown in resulting from a sparring session between Joyce and Stiverne in which Joyce was angered by comments from Stiverne in an interview afterwards when he said he took Joyce to school.

Joyce said, “I had respect for Bermane Stiverne. We sparred in Las Vegas; he said he took me to school in an interview etc, it got ugly and it made this fight happen. I tried to be respectful of him, but he’s rude and was having none of it. He is a former World Champion that has gone 12 rounds with Deontay Wilder and will give me a real challenge; but my engine and my power will be too much for him, a fact he should be aware of!”

Joyce’s promoter Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports, said, “After only seven fights Joe Joyce has become the number five ranked Heavyweight in the world. But the spectacular way in which he has won all of his seven fights by knockout have made him the number one fan favourite in the Heavyweight Division. Taking on the heavy-handed Former World Champion Stiverne shows that no challenge is too big for Joe as he continues to march towards the Heavyweight World Championship. Simply put: Joe Joyce has become must see TV, so make sure to tune in on February 23 or come and watch him live at the O2 in London!”

Stiverne said, “I told my promoter Don King to get me any man on earth and I will fight for the right to prove myself to the world. Then the phone rings, it’s Don, he tells me Joe Joyce – a boxer with only seven bouts – agrees to meet me! ‘Seven bouts?’. Seven fights and he has the audacity to box me? I have stopped Chris Arreola, Ray Austin, the then undefeated Kerston Manswell – and a boxer with seven fights wants to box me?!.’ I said to Don ‘Sign it, take it, grab it,’ I’m ready. Seven fights – and he wants to box me? For me it is a dream come true – but for Joyce it will be a nightmare. I will knock out Joe Joyce and step over him to KO Anthony Joshua. I’m primed and ready. The real Bermane Stiverne will be there on February 23 and will knock out Joe Joyce en route to regaining my heavyweight crown.”

Stiverne’s legendary promoter Don King, added, “It is with my greatest pleasure that Don King Productions can announce our return to Jolly Old England – the ‘Cradle of Boxing” where my pugilistic giant – the Former Heavyweight Champion of the World Bermane Stiverne begins his comeback at the expense of the Giant Joe Joyce. Unfortunately, for the local fans of Joe there will no ‘re Joycing’ – as my once – and future champion Bermane Stiverne will slay Joyce just like St. George did the dragon of old. But no matter, we will pick up the pieces and bring back Joyce just as I have brought back and helped build many a future together. I recall when I came here with Oliver McCall and he was given no chance against Lennox Lewis. Then the underdog became the top dog when Oliver KO’d the previously unbeaten champ and we went home with the title. History will repeat itself of February 23 when Bermane sends another undefeated Englishman to defeat. Now retooled, resuscitated, renewed, rejuvenated and recommitted Bermane Stiverne will resurrect his career on February 23 when the ‘Lord of Ring” crushes the “Lord of the World” – ‘Juggernaut” Joyce on his inexorable march to regain the heavyweight championship of the world. Bless all British fans, God Save the Queen – but heaven help Joe Joyce! We will see you on February 23rd.”

WBC World Heavyweight Champion Deontay Wilder also put forward his thoughts on the intriguing match up, he said, “Joe Joyce will be a good test for him (Stiverne). I’ve seen Joe Joyce before. He’s a good fighter. Joe Joyce fought Joe Hanks on my undercard with Tyson Fury but I didn’t get a chance to see him fight that night. But I’m looking forward to seeing him against Stiverne.”

Richard Poxon, UK Promoter for PBC, said, “I’ve known Joe from his amateur days up in Sheffield. His success at the Olympics didn’t surprise me at all. He’s transitioned well to the pros now and is clearly in a hurry. The heavyweight division is the one that everyone is looking at again and I fully expect Joe to be in the thick of the action in the coming year. Taking on a former WBC World Champion in only your eighth fight clearly shows what Joe’s ambitions are.”

Since embarking on his pro career in his quest to become World Heavyweight Champion, the quietly spoken Joyce has let his destructive fists do the talking in making bold statements to make the boxing world sit up and take notice of the fast-rising star.

In October 2017 he astounded critics when he choose to fight the hardened Former British title challenger Ian Lewison, who had just extended big-punching Dillian Whyte to ten rounds, for his pro-debut and pounded him down in eight rounds.

Then in only his fourth fight with only 12 rounds under his belt and inside seven months of turning pro, Joyce demolished the Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Lenroy Thomas in just two rounds – setting a new record by heavyweight boxer to win the Commonwealth belt.

In his last fight, American fights fans got a brief taster of what the British star is all about when he smashed through Joe Hanks in a round to win the WBA Continental title at the Staples Centre in Los Angeles in making his glittering U.S debut.

Joyce, now ranked #5 in the world by the WBA and progressing quickly towards a World Title shot, faces unquestionably his sternest career test to date against the vastly experienced and equally big-hitting Las Vegas based Haitian who has knocked out 21 opponents of his 25 wins in his 29 fight career.

Stiverne formerly held the WBC crown for two years after defeating Chris Arreola on points in April 2013 to win the title and then in the rematch destroying him inside six rounds in the first defence of the title in May 2014.

The rock solid Stiverne then pushed the dynamite-punching Deontay Wilder the full twelve round distance in the next defence of his WBC World Heavyweight title clash in January 2015. Stiverne became the first man to take Wilder beyond who at that point had obliterated all his opponents inside four rounds. In the rematch nearly three years later, Stiverne stepped in at the last minute when Wilder’s original opponent Luis Ortiz failed a drugs test and due to his inactivity was stopped in a round.

Stiverne is now looking to return to the elite heavyweight mix and a victory over Joyce would propel him back into the limelight and on course towards a potential world title opportunity.

Tickets available from www.AXS.com and Inner Ringside/VIP Hospitality from www.sportandmusic.co.uk

This fight will be shown exclusively on ITV Box Office. For further information and updates, please go to www.itvboxoffice.com

NOTE TO EDITORS: Please clearly credit ITV Box Office in any published material

Late last year, ITV announced a ground-breaking new deal with Haymon Sports and Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) to bring exclusive coverage of exciting PBC world-class boxing events to ITV viewers and fight fans in the UK.

The unique collaboration is the first time that Haymon Sports and PBC has partnered with a UK broadcaster to stage boxing events regularly in the UK. The exclusive three-year deal will guarantee a minimum of 15 televised events each year, drawing from PBC’s unrivalled group of over 160 of the best boxers in the world, which includes more than 60 current and former world champions in matches staged both in the UK and the US. PBC, the sports’ pre-eminent boxing brand, is broadcast over cable and network television in the United States.

The world-class action from events for the next three years will include free-to-air broadcasts on ITV’s channels, including ITV main channel and ITV4 and ITV Hub, and will also include pay per views on ITV’s PPV channel, ITV Box Office.

This new deal for boxing adds to ITV Sport’s portfolio of first class events, which includes exclusive free to air coverage of the England football team’s qualifiers for both the European Championship and World Cup, the 6 Nations and exclusive coverage of the Rugby World Cup, UK horse racing, the Tour de France and the French Open.




Team Lakay’s Geje Eustaquio Thrives On Pressure To Become A Better Athlete

24 January, 2019 Manila, Philippines : When Geje “Gravity” Eustaquio sets foot on the ONE Championship stage to compete, the Filipino superstar is the picture of composure.

However, the ONE Flyweight World Champion admits there are plenty of thoughts that run through his mind each time he takes on a new challenge.

“It’s normal for athletes to feel pressure because there is an expectation from coaches, teammates, and fans for us competitors to win and perform to the best of our ability,” he explains.

“Pressure is a mental weight that we have to carry and deal with prior and during our matches. It will either make you or break you.”

Despite the pressure whenever he straps on four-ounce gloves, pacifying it seems to be the forte of the 29-year-old native of Baguio City, Philippines.

“I handle pressure by remembering the dreams that I want to achieve. By simply going to the gym, it gives me an assurance that all will be well,” Eustaquio says.

According to Eustaquio, what has helped him the most in his professional career has been the way he approaches the mental aspect of his preparation.

“I do a lot of visualization to prepare for my fights, so I’m mentally prepared as well as physically prepared,” he states.

“When I get in there, I’ve studied my opponent, I’ve dreamt about my opponent, and I’ve seen my opponent in my head several times before the fight even starts.”

Chalking up to a simple martial arts philosophy of treating pressure as a training partner, Eustaquio believes that it also serves as an eye-opener for martial artists like him.

“Sometimes, pressure makes good champions see the positives. It is very hard to keep away from the negativity, but true champions take the negatives and turn them into positives,” he conveys.

Eustaquio looks to have a few more proud moments as the lionized kingpin of the flyweight division, beginning on Friday, 25 January as he faces Brazil’s Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes in the first trilogy bout in ONE Championship history.

Both men are set to collide in the main event of ONE: HERO’S ASCENT, which emanates from the 20,000-capacity Mall Of Asia Arena in Manila, Philippines.

Eustaquio and Moraes first met when they squared off for the inaugural ONE Flyweight World Championship at ONE: RISE OF THE KINGDOM in September 2014.

On that occasion, it was Moraes’ superior grappling skills that earned him the victory, submitting the Filipino with a second-round guillotine choke.

They met again in a grueling title unification contest at ONE: PINNACLE OF POWER in June 2018, where Eustaquio earned two of the three judges’ favor to win via razor-thin split decision and emerge as the undisputed ONE Flyweight World Champion.

Although a victory over Moraes can solidify his status as one of the top flyweights in the world, Eustaquio is more after showcasing his improvement, and that is the kind of pressure he claims he thrives under.

“I have fought Adriano twice. For me, the pressure is not about winning or losing to a talented athlete like him,” he reveals. “The pressure is all about getting better for our upcoming fight.”

“I am ready to show the world my development and the new things I learned in the span of six months.”




Unbeaten Prospect Stephen Fulton & Welterweight Contender Miguel Cruz Enter The Ring In Separate Undercard Attractions Saturday, January 26 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn in Event Presented by Premier Boxing Champions


BROOKLYN (January 22, 2019) – Unbeaten rising prospect Stephen Fulton and welterweight contender Miguel Cruz will step into action in separate undercard attractions on Saturday, January 26 as part of an exciting night presented by Premier Boxing Champions from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™.

Cruz (17-1, 11 KOs) will take on Colombia’s Luis Florez (24-11, 20 KOs) in a six or eight round welterweight attraction while Fulton (14-0, 6 KOs) faces Colombia’s Marlon Olea (13-3, 12 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight showdown.

The event is headlined by the return of WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman defending his title against veteran contender Josesito Lopez in PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes action that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment, begin at $50 and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com, or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

Rounding out the card are a trio of unbeaten prospects as Clarksburg, Maryland’s Mark Duncan competes in a four-round middleweight fight against Daniel Flores, Landover, Maryland’s Tyrek Irby (5-0, 2 KOs) takes on Jonathan Figueroa in a four-round welterweight attraction and Mychal Teal out of St. Petersburg, Florida steps into the ring for a four-round battle against Jacob Landin.

The 24-year-old Fulton fights out of Philadelphia and will be making his Barclays Center debut when he steps into the ring Saturday night. Fulton has defeated previously unbeaten fighters in five of his last eight contests and most recently vanquished his most experienced opponent to date in German Meraz last September.

Fighting out of Lake Mary, Florida, Cruz returns to action after losing an exciting duel against Josesito Lopez last April. A member of the Puerto Rican national team as an amateur, the 28-year-old owns victories over then unbeaten fighters in Alex Martin and Samuel Figueroa.

# # #

ABOUT PBC ON FOX & FOX DEPORTES: THURMAN VS. LOPEZ
Premier Boxing Champions on FOX & FOX Deportes is headlined by the return of WBA Welterweight World Champion Keith Thurman defending his title against veteran contender Josesito Lopez on Saturday, January 26 live from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and the East Coast home of PBC. The event is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with DiBella Entertainment.

The broadcast begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features rising unbeaten Polish heavyweight Adam Kownacki taking on former title challenger Gerald Washington, plus a 12-round featherweight showdown between Tugstsogt Nyambayar and Claudio Marrero.

PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes begin at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and will feature junior lightweight prospect Chris Colbert taking on once-beaten Josh Hernandez in an eight-round bout, plus 2016 U.S. Olympian Antuanne Russell facing Roberto Almazán in a six/eight round super lightweight attraction, and super welterweight prospect Chordale Booker meeting Juan De Ángel for eight-rounds of action.

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FOX or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSports.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku.

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




MANNY PACQUIAO vs. ADRIEN BRONER TO AIR ON SHOWTIME® ON SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 AT 10:30 P.M. ET/PT


NEW YORK – January 22, 2019 – Saturday’s welterweight world championship between Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner will air on SHOWTIME this Saturday, January 26 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT. The WBA welterweight champion Pacquiao delivered a dominant performance to earn a unanimous decision victory over Broner last Saturday night in Las Vegas on SHOWTIME PPV®.

The delayed telecast of Pacquiao vs. Broner will be followed later that evening by the premiere of ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER EPILOGUE. The Sports Emmy® award-winning “EPILOGUE” spotlights the immediate buildup to fight night, goes inside the ropes during the fight and reveals the dramatic aftermath of world championship boxing like no other show on television.

The pilot episode of BLACK MONDAY, a new comedy series starring Don Cheadle, Andrew Rannells and Regina Hall, will immediately follow the delayed telecast of Pacquiao vs. Broner. ALL ACCESS: PACQUIAO VS. BRONER EPILOGUE will premiere following the encore presentation of BLACK MONDAY.




CHEESEMAN: FOWLER IS SMALL FRY ONCE I’VE GOT THE EUROPEAN TITLE

Ted Cheeseman says Super-Welterweight rivals Anthony Fowler and Scott Fitzgerald must “step up to the plate” and “earn the right” to face him as he prepares for the biggest test of his career next week in London.

The Bermondsey star jumps up in class again when he challenges undefeated Spaniard Sergio Garcia for the EBU European crown at The O2 on February 2, shown live on Sky Sports in the UK and DAZN in the US.

Former GB teammates Fowler and Fitzgerald put their unbeaten records on the line when they clash in one of the most highly-anticipated domestic showdowns of the year in March, with a potential shot at Cheeseman’s British title on the line, but the champ is looking to step up again once he wins the European title.

“Once you win a European title, there’s only one step up after that,” said Cheeseman. “When you turn pro, your goal is to become a World Champion. If I win this fight on February 2, and I’m very confident that I will after studying my opponent’s style, I’m basically in line for a World title shot.

“Garcia is ranked highly with the governing bodies. Once I win this European title I’m going to have a top five World ranking with most of them, or top ten at least. He’s number 4 in the WBC rankings so I’ll take that top five spot with them. When I win next week, the World will be my oyster and I’ll only be looking ahead of me.”

‘The Big Cheese’ is on an upward trajectory after outpointing Asinia Byfield in an all-action battle for the Lonsdale belt at the Copper Box Arena in October. A fight with Liverpool’s Fowler is in high demand with the British public, and Cheeseman has previously expressed his desire to settle his feud with ‘The Machine’, but the 23-year-old wants to keep his options open ahead of a huge 2019.

“There’s a lot of potential fights being talked about and I want them to happen, but all of my focus is on performing well against Garcia and getting the win. Fowler is small fry once I’ve got the European title. What does he bring to the table, a 9-0 record against journeymen? What has he actually done? Fowler needs me, not the other way round.

“Both him and Fitzgerald need to step up to the plate and do something to earn the right to face me. They’ve got to bring something to the table. I’ll be British and European Champion with top five World ranking. What do they bring to the table? I’d need to make sure that a fight with Fowler or Fitzgerald isn’t just good for them, it’s good for me as well.

“This game is all about opportunities. There’s some massive fights to be made but it’s got to be the right opportunity for me. Maybe the Fowler fight gets made, maybe it doesn’t. Liam Smith just signed with Matchroom, he’s another Super-Welterweight. Kell Brook is in my weight class now. They are looking for other British opponents and I’m the main man on the domestic scene. These are all fights that could happen later this year.”

Garcia vs. Cheeseman tops a huge night of action in London.

Unbeaten British Cruiserweight Champion Lawrence Okolie returns to action after his win over Matty Askin at Wembley Stadium in September.

Bitter Light-Heavyweight rivals Jake Ball and Craig Richards finally face-off in a highly-anticipated grudge match for the WBA Continental title.

Rising Wokingham Middleweight talent Felix Cash fights for his second professional title when he takes on Nigeria’s Abolaji Rasheed for the vacant Commonwealth title.

Scotland’s fast-rising Super-Middleweight talent John Docherty aims to make it three KO’s from three fights, Ipswich Heavyweight Fabio Wardley looks to go 6-0, decorated amateur Charles Frankham makes his debut at Super-Featherweight and Hammersmith Light-Heavyweight Dana Zaxo takes part in his fourth professional contest.

Tickets for February 2 priced at £30, £50, £80 and £150 are (VIP) available to purchase from StubHub (www.stubhub.co.uk), The O2 (www.theo2.co.uk) and Matchroom Boxing (www.matchroomboxing.com)




MATCHROOM BOXING ITALY AND OPI SINCE 82 HEAD TO MILAN

Matchroom Boxing Italy, Opi Since 82 and DAZN are delighted to announce the second instalment of their historic eight-year joint venture in Italy.

Following the huge success of their inaugural event at the Teatro Obi Hall in Florence in November, the trio will host a night of Championship Boxing at the Superstudio in Milan on March 8, shown live on DAZN.

Three title fights top a stacked nine-fight card that features an array of emerging Italian talent.

Rozzano’s undefeated Super-Middleweight talent Daniele Scardina (15-0, 14 KO’s) fights for his second professional title takes on Finnish Super-Middleweight Champion Henri Kekalainen (11-5, 5 KO’S) for the IBF International crown.

Ukraine’s rising Welterweight powerhouse Maxim Prodan (15-0, 14 KO’s) gets his first title shot when he meets former Belgium Super-Lightweight Champion Steve Jamoye (25-6-2, 5 KO’s) for the IBF International Welterweight title.

In the evening’s third title fight, Milan’s former World title challenger Vissia Trovato (12-1, 5 KO’s) takes on Mexico’s Erika Cruz Hernandez (9-1, 3 KO’s) for the WBC World Silver Featherweight title.

As part of the landmark partnership, Matchroom Boxing Italy, Opi Since 82 and DAZN are determined to rebuild boxing in the country and inspire a new generation of fighters by showcasing the best up-and-coming talent.

Verbania’s Super-Middleweight starlet Ivan Zucco (6-0, 5 KO’s) aims to impress in his first televised bout, former Italian Welterweight Champion Dario Morello looks to extend his unbeaten run to 14-0, Roma’s Super-Welterweight Mirko Natalizi (3-0, 2 KO’s) takes part in his fourth pro contest, with action elsewhere from 6-0 Super-Middleweight Marzio Franscella and Novara Super-Welterweight Samuel Nmomah (9-0, 3 KO’s).

Swindon’s former World title challenger Jamie Cox (25-2, 14 KO’s) fights in Italy for the first time as he aims to get his career back on track following defeats to George Groves and John Ryder.

Ticket details will be announced soon.

“I’m excited to promote our first show in Milan,” said Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Boxing Managing Director. “It’s a stacked card full of exciting match ups with the hugely popular and exciting Daniele Scardina topping the card. We had a great start in Florence and we expect another sold out Arena in Milan.”

Salvatore Cherchi of OPI Since 82 said: “After a successful night in Florence we are back in Milan with the second show of the partnership with Matchroom Boxing Italy and DAZN. Milan has a very important boxing tradition and in the last four years we kept it alive promoting 28 shows at Teatro Principe. We are Looking forward to a great night of boxing on March 8.”

“We are very happy to bring boxing back to Milan, a city that includes sports among its greatest excellences, especially within a unique location that has always been linked to great international fashion and design events that animate the city every year,” said Veronica Diquattro, Executive Vice President of DAZN Italy. “Together with our partners, the goal is to reawake the excitement and interest around boxing in Italy, trying to bring more people close to this sport.”




Split-T Management’s Vikas Krishan and Janelson Figueroa Bocachica Score Big Wins This Past Weekend

NEW YORK (JANUARY 22, 2019)-Two prized prospects under the Split-T Management banner scored big wins this past weekend.

Two-Time Indian Olympian, Vikas Krishan made a successful pro debut with a 2nd round stoppage over Steven Andrade in a scheduled six-round junior middleweight bout on night Friday at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York.

On Saturday, Janelson Figueroa Bocachica ran his record to 13-0 as he notched his 9th stoppage with a 1st round blowout of Victor Abreu in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

Krishan was impressive as he applied intense pressure over the six-fight veteran Andrade. In round two, the high-volume punching Krishan broke down Andrade with fast combinations that forced the referee to stop the bout at 2:31 of the 2nd stanza.

Krishan is promoted by Top Rank.

Bocachica, who resides in Detroit, MI returned to his native land of Puerto Rico and impressed the audience with an explosive performance to continue the dominant run of his professional career.

The 20 year-old Bocachica started the fight very aggressively by throwing straights and hooks to the body and head, eventually dropping Abreu at the end of the 1st round with a right uppercut. Although Abreu got up at the bell, he decided he didn’t want anymore, and retired in the corner.




NEW ENGLAND SLATED TO REPRESENT AT SATURDAY’S SLUGFEST AT THE SUN

Uncasville, CT., January 22, 2019

Four Connecticut fighters will put their boxing and punching skills on display at “Slugfest at the Sun”, on a show headlined by bangers CLETUS SELDIN and ADAM MATE. The excitement, action, and fun will all occur at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut on January 26th, on a card also featuring Star Boxing’s talented fighters DAVID PAPOT (22-0 3KO’s, Saint Nazaire, FR) against COURTNEY PENNINGTON (12-3-2 5KO’s, Brooklyn, NY) as well as RONNIE AUSTION (10-0 7KO’s, Las Vegas, NV). The entire thrilling night of boxing is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

The best known of the Connecticut boxers, East Hartford’s “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO, (9-0, 3KO, Hartford, CT) will put his undefeated record on the line against RONALD RIVAS (5-8-2, 3KO). Laureano is coming off a successful 2018, in which he notched three consecutive victories, and earned the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame’s “Professional Boxer of the Year,” honors. He earned the nickname “Action” for his relentless come forward style and as always, Laureano intends to put on an exciting show from start to finish on the 26th.

Star Boxing’s ANGEL SUAREZ (8-2, 3KO, San Juan, PR), will face off against WILLIAM FOSTER III (8-0 6KO) of New Haven, Connecticut. After a slow start to his pro career, Suarez has come into his own, having reeled-off seven consecutive victories. Foster, boasts a strong amateur background, having won the Youth Super featherweight title and is a three time New England Golden Gloves champion. Foster last fought at Mohegan Sun on June 30th, in a bout that was ruled a no contest due to an accidental headbutt. Having combined for 15 consecutive victories, in bouts in which official decisions were rendered, these are two red-hot fighters who will create a firestorm in the ring on Saturday night. The winner of this bout will be crowned the JR. NABF SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION.

Two more fighters from Connecticut, both new to the professional ranks, will also be featured on the card. JACOB “LEFTY” MARRERO, was a USA Boxing Connecticut amateur of the year winner and sports a fine amateur record of 58-7. He now trains out of the Ortiz Boxing Gym, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He was victorious in his pro debut in October 2018 in a bout in which he won by knockout. “Lefty,” as he has been nicknamed, due to his powerful left hand, will look to make it two in a row against ZSOLT KARVAJ (3-2, 2KO, Budapest, Hungary), the stablemate of headliner Adam Mate.

NATHAN MARTINEZ (1-0, New Britain, CT) is also new to the professional ranks. He also has a fine amateur pedigree. A 2015 qualifier for USA Boxing Junior Olympic Northeast Regional Championships, Nathan won the Thomas Costello Memorial Award as the Most Outstanding Boxer at the 71st annual Lowell Sun Charities Golden Gloves Championship. He looks to notch his second pro victory against JERROD MINOR (1-2-2, 1KO, Philadelphia, PA)

Come join us on January 26th and root on the local Connecticut boxers on the card or another of your own personal favorites. It should be a night of compelling action, dramatic knockouts and fine boxing skills.




SROUR: “I WILL PLAY WITH HIM FOR FIVE ROUNDS, THEN SHUT HIM DOWN IN THE SIXTH”

Hadi Srour (2-0, KOs) returns to the professional ring on March 2 at the SØR Amfi in Arendal to face Zoltan Szabo (25-15, 11 KOs) on the undercard of Kai Robin Havnaa’s cruiserweight showdown with Rad ‘Thunder’ Rashid.

Srour is one of Norway’s most exciting boxing prospects with over 100 amateur wins to his name, and has successfully transitioned to the professional ranks with stoppage victories over Michael Mooney and Artur Zemlianyi.

The Tønsberg-boxer will now test his skills against Hungary’s Zoltan Szabo, who recently went the distance with 2016 Olympic Gold medallist Daniyar Yeleussinov, has stopped Stephen Ormond inside five rounds, and proved a tough test for top UK prospects Ohara Davies and Robbie Davis Jnr.

Despite his opponent’s pedigree, the 23 year-old Srour says he is confident in his ability and plans to continue his one hundred percent stoppage streak, even going so far as to predict in which round he will end the fight.

“I’m looking forward to fighting in Arendal and performing in front of a packed out crowd at the SØR Amfi on March 2,” said Srour.

“Since my last professional fight, I’ve been to three international tournaments in Turkey, Finland and Serbia. I’ve boxed nine fights against top boxers and won seven of those. I’ve also knocked out two boxers in these tournaments, which shows how my style has changed since turning professional.

“I’ll be coming into this fight in my best shape ever, so expect fireworks. I started my training camp sparring IBF Youth World Champion Enock Poulsen, and next week, I’m starting an international training camp with some of the best boxers in the world, so I couldn’t ask for better preparations.

“Szabo is a huge step up for me, but everyone loves a gamble, and I trust my skill set, so let’s go. I like to take my time in the ring so I can showcase my skills. I will play with him for five rounds, then shut him down in the sixth. Get your tickets now and buckle up because it’s going to be a wild ride!”

Kai Robin Havnaa returns to the SØR Amfi in Arendal on March 2 to headline his hometown arena in his toughest career test against Rad Rashid.

Hadi Srour meets Zoltan Szabo in a six-round super lightweight contest.

Tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.no or by calling (+47) 22 82 81 97.