CHARLES FRANKHAM PENS PROMOTIONAL DEAL WITH MATCHROOM BOXING

Charles Frankham has signed a promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing.

‘Boom Boom’ enjoyed a glittering amateur career, winning 71 of his 77 bouts, collecting a World Youth Championship Bronze medal at 52kg, a Commonwealth Games Gold medal at 60kg and European Championship at 52kg along the way, as well as eleven National titles.

The 19-year-old from Crowthorne trains under the watchful eye of Tony Sims in Brentwood, Essex and is excited to begin life in the paid code at Super-Featherweight at The O2 in London on February 2nd.

“I’m over the moon to have signed a promotional deal with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing,” said Frankham. “They are by far the best in the business and I’m confident putting my career in their hands. I can’t wait to make my professional debut at The O2 next month, I’m aiming to impress. I enjoyed my time in the amateurs but now is the right time to turn over and make my mark in the pros.

“Make ‘em miss and make ‘em pay is the ‘Boom Boom’ Frankham way. My defence is one of my main attributes and I’m a spiteful counterpuncher. If I need to mix it up them I’m well equipped to do that as well. Fighting is in my blood; I was born to box. My grandad Johnny Frankham was a British Light-Heavyweight Champion and a huge inspiration to me – I intend on doing my family proud.

“I’m really lucky to have a brilliant team around me in the gym. There’s great sparring for me with the likes of Martin J Ward, Ricky Burns and Joe Cordina – they’re all similar weights to me. This year it’s all about building experience in the gym and in the ring. I’d like to get a few fights under my belt by the end of the year. My long-term ambition is to go all the way to the top and get as many belts as I can.”

“I’m delighted to welcome Charles to the team,” said Eddie Hearn. “His outstanding amateur pedigree speaks for itself and he has all of the attributes to be a big success in the paid ranks. I can’t wait to see his exciting new journey get underway at The O2 next month.”

Follow Charles’ journey on his Twitter: @CharlesFrankham and Instagram: CHARLES_FRANKHAM

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)

‘LIGHTNING’ LEE SELBY RETURNS TO ACTION AT THE O2

London (14 January 2019) Former IBF World Featherweight Champion Lee Selby will make his big return to the ring on Saturday 23rd February at The O2, London, on the blockbuster James DeGale-Chris Eubank Jr. show, exclusively live on ITV Box Office.

Selby kicks off 2019 with new and fresh ambitions as he makes a daring move up two weight classes to campaign in the talent-packed Lightweight division and has targeted a second world title belt before the end of the year.

The Welsh star will face hard-hitting American Omar Douglas with a championship title on the line to be confirmed shortly that will support the mouth-watering showdown between bitter rivals DeGale and Eubank Jr in the UK debut event for Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) promoted by Poxon Sports.

The 31-year-old can’t wait to return to The O2 and he sees it as his lucky omen where he is unbeaten in the five fights he’s had there, including his sensational win over Evgeny Gradovich to win the IBF World title in May 2015.

This will be Selby’s first fight since a shock loss of his title to Josh Warrington last May that he put down to trouble making the 126 pound weight limit and realising that he should have made the move up in weight a lot sooner.

A loss has certainly not dented Selby’s confidence and the time away has made him reflect and refocus on his career and he is now relishing the challenges of fighting in a division that holds some of the elite names in world boxing and being crowned a two-time World Champion.

Making history is very much in Selby’s sights as he aims to become Wales’ first ever recognised two-weight World Champion. The Barry man is looking to carve his name alongside those of other Welsh sporting legends like Joe Calzaghe, JPR Williams, Gareth Bale and Geraint Thomas as he moves in to the next phase of his already glittering career.

Selby said, “I’m looking forward to the challenge of becoming a two weight world champion. The move up in weight was long overdue so that’s why we’ve chosen to jump up two weight classes to the Lightweight division.”

“There are so many fights to look forward to with big domestic fights like Campbell, Crolla and Burns along with some of the pound-for-pound best fighters in the world like Vasyl Lomachenko and Mikey García,”

“The Featherweight division was one of the toughest weight classes and I reached the top as IBF world champion. It’s the same mission now at Lightweight and I can’t wait to get back to business on February 23. The O2 London has been a special venue for me where I won my world title so it’s great to be back there on a massive night for British boxing.”

Douglas, from Wilmington, Delaware, had a decorated amateur career, winning five state Golden Gloves titles and is under the PBC banner. The 27-year-old comes in with a top record of 13 knockouts in 19 wins from 21 fights, with two highly controversial points losses, and is a former NABA Super-Featherweight Champion.

He said, “I am very grateful for this opportunity to come to London and fight on the show and the UK fans get to see me in action. Lee Selby is a solid fighter, but I know in my heart that I’m an undefeated fighter and that will make me very dangerous and I will show it on February 23. I will show I’m a major player at junior lightweight. Although this fight is at 135 pounds I want the world to see that I’m one of the top guys at 130 and put the champions on notice.”

Promoter Richard Poxon of Poxon Sports is thrilled to welcome a fighter of Selby’s calibre to the action-packed card and expects him to shine at Lightweight.

Poxon said, “I always felt Lee would be a dominant champion at Featherweight and would have fancied him against anyone. I was as surprised as anyone when he lost to Josh Warrington, but it was no secret Lee had had his problems making weight.”

“I’m really looking forward to watching Lee in this fight. To jump up two weights is some leap and it will be very interesting to see how he fits in the Lightweight division.”

“Douglas isn’t a joke for anyone and has only lost to the ‘top tier’ boxers. Edner Cherry is a proven operator and Fortuna is top drawer. He’ll be coming to win, that’s for sure.”

“If Lee carries the weight well, then I’d expect him to be a serious threat to any of the champions at 135lbs. There are some great domestic fights out there for him as well as on the international stage.”

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

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.

DOHENY DEFENDS WORLD TITLE AGAINST TAKAHASHI

TJ Doheny will make the first defense of his IBF World Super-Bantamweight title against Ryohei Takahashi at the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden, New York on Friday January 18, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM WWW.MSG.COM – TICKETS START AT $46!

Doheny landed the title in stunning fashion in Japan in August, ripping it from defending champion Ryosuke Iwasa in Tokyo, moving to 20-0 (14KOs) in the process. Now the Irishman will look to cement his status as World ruler in the Big Apple before targeting unification bouts later in the year.

Fittingly, Japan’s Takahashi (16-3-1 6KOs) will get the chance to return to the strap to the Far East where Doheny won the title, and the 28 year old #10 ranked challenger is thrilled to be fighting for his first title at the New York boxing mecca.

“It is really an honor to fight a World title match in this big event,” said Takahashi. “I’ll show everyone a great fight and rise up as a champion. I will make it happen.”

“I am delighted to face Ryohei in my first defense,” said Doheny. “I have massive respect for boxing in Japan having won my title there, and I know how motivated he will be in his first world title fight, just as I was in Tokyo.

“But I have prepared brilliantly for this fight and this is my time to shine. I know he wants to rip the title from me, but this is my first big night under the spotlight and I intend to shine.”

Doheny’s clash with Takahashi is part of a huge triple-header of World title action at Madison Square Garden, Demetrius Andrade defends his WBO World Middleweight title for the first time against Russian Artur Akavov.

A third World title bout on the card sees Amanda Serrano (35-1-1 26KOs) gunning for history as she looks to land World honors in an extraordinary seventh weight class as she meets WBC and IBF World Super-Flyweight champion Eva Voraberger (24-5 11KOs) – the Austrian tasked with stopping Serrano’s bid for glory.

Former World Lightweight ruler Jorge Linares continues his comeback trail on the card when he meets Pablo Cesar Cano. Linares’ (45-4 28KOs) reign as WBA and Ring Magazine champion was ended in an epic clash with pound-for-pound star Vasily Lomachenko at Madison Square Garden in May, with Linares felling the Ukrainian star in the sixth before being stopped four rounds later.

Linares returned to winning ways in September with a third round stoppage win over Abner Cotto in September in California and starts 2019 with his 50th pro fight against Cano (31-7-1 21KOs), the Mexican former World title challenger who landed the WBC International Silver strap in his last outing in September – and Linares is joined by fellow Golden Boy Boxing star Alexis Rocha (12-0 8KOs), the 21 year old Welterweight talent ready to begin his charge for titles in 2019.

Long Island favorite and former World ruler Chris Algieri (22-3 8KOs) steps up his pursuit of regaining his World champion status at Super-Lightweight as he faces fellow New Yorker Danny Gonzalez (17-1-1 7KOs), One of Matchroom Boxing USA’s rising stars tastes his first action in 2019 on the card as Reshat Mati (2-0 1KO) returns to the scene of his last outing in October where the ‘Albanian Bear’ went the four round distance in his second fight.

Tickets for January 18 are on sale now priced from $46 (including booking fee) – tickets are available from www.MSG.com

Ruben Villa Dominates Colombian Ruben Cervera in ShoBox Co-Feature

PHILADELPHIA, Penn. / ORANGE Calif.(Jan. 12, 2019) -In a battle of undefeated Rubens, former decorated amateur Ruben Villa (15-0, 5 KOs) handed Colombian Ruben Cervera (10-1, 9 KOs) his first career defeat scoring a dominating unanimous decision, 80-72 on all three scorecards in the eight-round featherweight co-feature bout.

See fight highlights HERE.

The bout took place as the co-feature on ShoBox: The New Generation, and LIVE on SHOWTIME® from StageWorks of Shreveport, Louisiana

The 21-year-old two-time Junior Olympic National Champion and the 2014 and 2015 National Golden Gloves Champion from Salinas, Calif., Villa outworked and outperformed the slower but determined Cervera en route to a decisive decision victory.

“It felt good fighting on the big stage and I got the victory against a very tough undefeated fighter,” the one-time Olympic alternate Villa said. “I felt I controlled the entire fight with my superior boxing skills. I’m ready to step up to the next level. I’m taking on all comers no matter who they are, I feel I’m the best featherweight in the world.”

In the sixth round, Villa got to work featuring a strong right hand and following up with jabs and combinations that seemed to buzz Cevera, who was out-landed on punches in the round 35-5.

The jab was the key weapon for Villa as he led 105-23 in connects as well as holding a 36 percent to eight percent advantage in jab accuracy. Villa exceeded double-digits in jabs in every round but the first.

The lefty Villa, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing, said visiting Riverside, California to spar top fighters has helped his game. “I’ll give myself an 8 or 9 tonight,” he said. “I believe in my speed. I know there are guys like [Abner] Mares and [Leo] Santa Cruz who people know, but visiting Riverside let me see I can step in there with anyone.”

Cevera became the 182nd career fighter to lose his undefeated record on ShoBox. “I knew Ruben Villa was a very fast fighter because I saw some video of him, but I didn’t know he was that fast,” Cervera said. “He’s much faster when you see him inside the ring. I tried everything I could but my distance was off. I was able to hit them with a couple of combinations and he probably felt my power. I don’t disagree with the judges’ decision, he was the better man tonight.”

ANTHONY LAUREANO LOOKS TO IMPRESS ON JANUARY 26TH AT MOHEGAN SUN ON THE CLETUS SELDIN -ADAM MATE UNDERCARD

Uncasville, Connecticut (January 11, 2019)

With January 26th rapidly approaching, the hype for STAR BOXING’S “SLUGFEST at the SUN” continues to build as one of its up-in-coming fighters is ready to defend his undefeated record. Connecticut’s own “ACTION” ANTHONY LAUREANO (9-0 3KO’s) of East Hartford is all set to battle in a featured bout at Mohegan Sun against RONALD “SAVAGE” RIVAS (5-8-2 3 KO’s).

The bout will be Laureano’s fourth fight at Mohegan Sun. Laureano earned the nickname “Action” for his relentless, come-forward fighting style. This style was clearly evident in his last fight against Waco, Texas veteran MARQUIS “THE HAWK” HAWTHORNE in a bout in which Laureano had the crowd on its feet. The fighters stood toe to toe for most of the fight, with Laureano earning a unanimous decision.

2018 was a successful year for Laureano who reeled off three consecutive victories. When the East Hartford native is in the ring, fans can always expect an exciting show from start to finish. As Laureano explained: People come to fights to “see action” and “to see somebody coming forward.” “I’m that fighter that always wants to fight.” Star Boxing’s “Slugfest at the Sun” always brings fireworks to Connecticut, and Laureano is continuing the tradition of aggressive fighters who never take a step in retreat and who deliver plenty of action and excitement.

Laureano had this to say about his upcoming bout: “Super excited to be returning home to the Mohegan Sun. This is my 4th fight at Mohegan and there is nothing like fighting there. The venue is beautiful and the crowd is amazing. It makes me fight harder. I love to bring the action to my Connecticut fans and family at Mohegan.Can’t wait for January 26th. I want to thank JOE DEGUARDIA and Star Boxing for giving me this opportunity. You don’t want to miss this one!”

In the main event of “SLUGFEST at the SUN” on January 26th, CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN (22-1 18 KO) will test his awesome punching power against the will and toughness of another fellow power puncher, Hungarian, ADAM “BAD BOY” MATE (28-13 21 KO). Seldin,who stunned Nelson Lara this past November, in a bout televised live on ESPN+, with his vicious body attack which resulted in a first round knockout, looks to continue his inexorable climb to the Super Lightweight championship. With both fighters bringing heavy artillery into the ring the fans can look forward to an exciting slugfest.
Get your tickets to January 26th, #SLUGFESTattheSUN live from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.
Tickets start at JUST $29. (plus venue fee)
BUY TICKETS HERE!

INFO:
“SLUGFEST at the SUN”: KO ARTIST CLETUS SELDIN RETURNS TO MOHEGAN SUN
In the main event of “SLUGFEST at the SUN” on January 26th, CLETUS “THE HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN (22-1 18 KO) will face another big puncher in Hungarian, Adam Mate. Seldin, one of the premier punchers in his division looks to continue his quest for the Super Lightweight championship by testing his mettle against the will and toughness of Mate. When two bangers such as Seldin and Mate square off in the ring the fans are treated to plenty of thrills and action.

FACTS:
“SLUGFEST at the SUN” is presented by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. The event takes place Saturday, January 26th at Mohegan Sun, in Uncasville, CT.

Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing “SLUGFEST at the SUN” series is the premier professional boxing experience in Connecticut. Live from the beautiful Mohegan Sun Arena, “SLUGFEST at the SUN” has seen some of the best and brightest in boxing. This includes, three-time world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade, former WBC International Light Heavyweight champion Joe “Beast” Smith Jr., world title challenger Delvin Rodriguez, amongst many others.

Connecticut Boxing Hall of Famer, Joe DeGuardia, has consistently given the boxing fans of Connecticut, world class fights, right in their own backyard. “SLUGFEST at the SUN” also gives the northeast’s rising boxing stars an avenue to world title contention. From world title fights, to world class boxing skill, Mohegan Sun has seen it all, delivered by Star Boxing.

The “SLUGFEST at the SUN” series offers an affordable, fan friendly, action packed, entertaining night out, that is guaranteed to have you on your feet from the opening bell.

On January 26th, Star Boxing plans to start your year off right, with yet another thrilling “SLUGFEST at the SUN.”
PAST RELEASES:
SELDIN VS. MATE MAIN EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT
TICKETS:
Tickets for the live event start at $29 (plus venue fee) and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com by clicking HERE or by going to www.StarBoxing.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the Mohegan Sun Box Office at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT.
MOHEGAN SUN:
Mohegan Sun Arena is now ranked consistently among the top venues in the world according to Billboard Magazine, Pollstar and Venues Today. It has won “Casino of The Year” at the Country Music Awards in 2008 & 2010 and in 2013, was voted “Arena of The Year” at the G2E Global Gaming Conference in Las Vegas. Mohegan Sun Arena was also ranked among the top 10 arena venues in the nation for 2014, regardless of size. In 2015, Mohegan Sun took home the IEBA award for “Casino of the Year.” Mohegan Sun also won “Casino of the Year” in 2 categories at the 2013 & 2016 Academy of Country Music Awards. For more information on concerts and other great events, visit Mohegan Sun. For information on this week’s schedule, call the Entertainment and Special Events hotline at 1.888.226.7711, ext. 27163.

JOSE UZCATEGUI vs. CALEB PLANT FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES (January 11, 2019) – Just two days before their long-anticipated clash, IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui and unbeaten top contender Caleb Plant went face-to-face at the final press conference before they headline Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes action Sunday, January 13 from the Microsoft Theatre at L.A. Live in Los Angeles.

Also in attendance Friday and competing in action beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT were unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa and former title challenger Moises Flores, who meet in a 12-round super bantamweight clash, and sensational prospect Joey Spencer, who enters the ring against Brandon Harder in a four-round super welterweight attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, start at $50, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.

The night of fights will also include PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT and featuring the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Friday from the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in Los Angeles:

JOSE UZCATEGUI

“I’m looking forward to this fight a lot and I’m really excited for Sunday. I can’t wait to show off my talent against a great fighter like Caleb Plant. You can say whatever you want outside of the ring, but we still have to get inside of the ring, and that’s when I do my best talking.

“My motivation is my family. I get up every morning to train and I’m away from my family, which is difficult. But on Sunday I can show that all the hard work paid off and I am the best.

“This is a big fight for me to continue to prove that I’m the best super middleweight in the world. I want all the other champions, but I know that I have a tough fighter to get through first. Caleb Plant will be a good test on my way to what I want to accomplish.

“I’m going to give a great fight for all of my fans in Mexico and the U.S. and everyone watching. They’re going to have a great show on Sunday night.”

CALEB PLANT

“For those who know me and know my story, they know I’ve been through things that break people. I’ve taken many defeats throughout my life, but never once have I been defeated. I always come out the other side. Sunday, January 13, I’m going to come out the other side with that belt.

“Everyone considers Uzcategui the bogeyman of the division, but I’m ready for him. I hope he’s ready. I’m going to take his belt and his spot in the division.

“This is a lifelong dream of mine. Fighting for the world title means everything, but it’s also just the first step. We’ve been in the studio cooking up something hot and the drop date is January 13.

“I think with our styles, this has the makings of a great, memorable fight. Everyone knows I have the skills and speed to hear ‘and the new’ on Sunday night.

“We were supposed to fight in August. I broke my hand in July and we had to move it back, but this fight has been set since June. Even when he fought in September and he said he had a down performance because he was ‘trying to trick’ someone into fighting him, I was waiting for this fight and I hope he’s not taking me as an easy task. Because he has another thing coming.”

BRANDON FIGUEROA

“This is going to be a tough fight. Moises Flores only has one loss and I know he’s training hard to bounce back. But I’m going to be ready for anything he brings.

“I’m 110 percent focused and ready for this moment. I’m back and ready to work this Sunday. I hope everyone comes out and supports all the hard work these fighters have put in for this show.

“Flores comes prepared. He’s been fighting tough contenders, but I’ve seen the fights he’s had and I don’t think people have really hit him to the body. My game plan is to break him down and try to catch him and knock him out if I can.

“My father has been the backbone of my career and him, along with the rest of my family and supporters in Mexico and all over the world, have helped me get to this moment. I’m close to reaching my goal and I know that means I have to win this fight on Sunday.”

MOISES FLORES

“I know that I’m facing a tough undefeated opponent, but I’ve fought the tougher competition and experienced more difficult fights. That’s going to help me in the ring on Sunday.

“I was derailed in my last fight, but I’ve made the proper corrections and I’m back and ready now. I’m 100 percent now and I’m going to show everyone who Moises Flores is.

“I’d like to thank my team, my family and even my dog and my cat. I’m happy to be back in the ring so I can show everyone what I have in me.”

JOEY SPENCER

“I’m thankful to everyone for coming out and supporting this event. I couldn’t be happier with how my career is going at this point. I’m looking forward to putting on a show on Sunday and turning everyone who hasn’t seen me into a believer.

“This year I’m looking to have even more of a breakout year than last year. I really want to get ready to enter that contender space and get ready to start looking at some titles.

“I’m looking forward to putting on a lot of good shows this year and performing for the fans. I’m excited to get it all started on Sunday night on FS1.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“This is going to be a sensational show on Sunday night at the Microsoft Theater. PBC and FOX Sports got off to a great start last month in Brooklyn kicking off the new PBC on FOX series and we’re excited to be here to launch the first FS1 show on Sunday night.

“PBC has made a major commitment to bringing some of the best and biggest fights to Southern California. It started off in December with the Wilder vs. Fury fight, continues on Sunday with this great fight and continues in February with Gervonta Davis vs. Abner Mares and Leo Santa Cruz vs. Miguel Flores cards.

“We believe that downtown Los Angeles can be a major hub for the sport of boxing. Come out and support this show on Sunday and get started on a terrific year.”

# # # #

ABOUT PBC ON FS1 & FOX DEPORTES: UZCATEGUI VS. PLANT
Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes is headlined by IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Jose Uzcategui taking on unbeaten Caleb Plant in the main event. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will also see unbeaten featherweight Brandon Figueroa battling Moises Flores and sensational prospect Joey Spencer entering the ring.

That show is preceded by PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT that will see the return of former world champion and pound-for-pound contender Guillermo Rigondeaux against Giovanni Delgado and hard-hitting 2016 Mexican Olympian Lindolfo Delgado in an eight-round super lightweight fight.

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 Media Conference Call Transcript

Kelly Swanson

Thanks everyone for calling in for the Manny Pacquiao vs. Adrien Broner media conference call for their fight on January 19 live on SHOWTIME PPV® from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

I’m more than happy to introduce Leonard Ellerbe, Chief Executive Officer of Mayweather Promotions to begin our call. Leonard?

Leonard Ellerbe

Thank you Kelly. I would like to thank everyone for joining the call today. We’re nine days away from what I consider to be the biggest fight of 2019. These fighters are fresh off of two outstanding media day workouts yesterday in California. Both guys seem very focused. They are both in great shape.

We have an unbelievable fight coming next Saturday night. We’re really looking forward to it.

K. Swanson

At this time, I would like to introduce Stephen Espinoza, President of Sports and Event Programming for Showtime Networks Inc. Stephen?

Stephen Espinoza

Thanks Kelly and thanks Leonard. Look, all of you guys are very well-acquainted with Manny and Adrien, you’ve covered them for years. They’re two of the biggest names in the sport so I don’t need to tell you anything more about them.

What I will do is give you some brief programming updates. Episode 2 of “ALL ACCESS” premieres this Friday 9:30 ET/PT on SHOWTIME. That is immediately before ShoBox, which is a three-fight card headlined by Devin Haney.

Then, once we get into fight week — as has become our hallmark — we will be distributing a whole variety of premium content across social media platforms, on SHOWTIME and elsewhere.

We’ve got the four installments of “ALL ACCESS DAILY.” That’s a daily digital series throughout fight week on YouTube and Facebook. We’ve got a daily series created specifically for Snapchat that is going to start even earlier than Fight Week.

We’ll also have livestream coverage of the Wednesday press conference, the Thursday press conference, the Friday weigh-in, as well as the Countdown Live pre-fight show.

So, as we get into these last nine days before the event, there is a variety of content available to satisfy every boxing fan’s need.

Both SHOWTIME subscribers and non-subscribers alike can purchase and live stream this event directly through the SHOWTIME app on a variety of platforms — plus, of course on traditional pay-per-view distributors — making this event available virtually everywhere and anywhere sports fans want to consume their content.

K. Swanson

Now we’re going to hear from Manny Pacquiao and to introduce Manny Pacquiao we have Fred Sternburg. Fred?

Fred Sternburg

Thanks Kelly. Well, I think Stephen said it best, “No introduction needed for boxing’s only eight-division World Champion and the reigning Fighter of the Decade.” So, let me present to you Manny Pacquiao.

Manny Pacquiao

Hello everyone. Good morning. I feel so happy and excited for the fight on January 19 and we’re ready – it’s all set.

Manny, you’ve been now a professional for 24 years and I wonder, as all the big fights that you’ve had, what it is that still motivates you to keep boxing?

M. Pacquiao

I’m still passionate about the sport of boxing and boxing is my passion and that’s why I’m still here continuing fighting. I really love boxing and that’s why I’m always excited and preparing for my fight to be settled on January 19.

Are there any things particular that you still want to accomplish?

M. Pacquiao

Talking about accomplishments, I really have accomplished what I want to accomplish in life. What I want to do is to maintain and stay at this level.

Manny, are there any concessions or changes that you’ve had to make due to your age?

M. Pacquiao

The routine of my training is the same. Jog in the morning and train in the afternoon. But we have a couple of adjustments in training specifically for recovery.

Because sometimes we push ourselves heavy in training in the day and then I we’ll see if overnight I can recover, and then we’ll push again.

But if I cannot recover then I let my body rest so that the following day it can push again and work hard.

What was it that lead you to take fights away from the Unites States?

M. Pacquiao

I think it just happened that some promotors and some people are most of the people they wanted me to fight there to see me live in-person. So, that’s an opportunity for them that they can see my fight.

I just got off the phone with Freddie Roach and he said he thinks that you have the old killer instinct back. Is there indeed the return of a killer instinct and do you have more of a mindset of going for the knockout in this fight?

M. Pacquiao

That’s true I still have that killer instinct and the fire in my eyes is still there. That aggressiveness, the interest in this career is still there 100%. The speed, the power are still there. I’m so thankful to God.

I’m not saying I’m going to predict for this fight. I will do my best and I look forward to this the same as the last fight. But no prediction, I will do my best with what we did in training camp.

Would you tell us what you said to Floyd Mayweather when you saw him at the basketball game the other day?

M. Pacquiao

Surprisingly, I didn’t know that he was there at the game. I was invited on that Filipino Heritage Night at the Clippers’ game. I didn’t know that he was there and then when they were throwing t-shirts to the crowds I saw him. And then I just say, “Hello.” That’s it.

Regarding the Floyd Mayweather fight whether or not it’s going to happen. Has it gotten to a point where you kind of feel a little annoyed with the question?

M. Pacquiao

You cannot avoid the people that will ask if there’s a rematch with Floyd Mayweather because I think they have a big question mark in their mind and also in their heart about that what happened in that fight.

I’m just answering them that I don’t have a plan yet. I’m very focused on this fight January 19 against Adrien Broner because Broner is a former champion and he’s the kind of fighter that you cannot underestimate or take him lightly.

What did it feel like having Freddie Roach back in your corner helping you prepare for a fight?

M. Pacquiao

Freddie’s never out of Team Pacquiao it just happened that I wanted Buboy to experience being a head trainer in one fight.

But it’s a good thing that we’re working here again and I like to be back here in Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles and back again in Las Vegas for a fight. I think that it’s good for us to be united and focused for this coming fight next week.

Was the talent at welterweight a bit of a motivating factor to sign with PBC and potentially get those types of dream matches and turning them into a reality?

M. Pacquiao

I think after this fight it’s easy to talk about my next opponent. That’s very easy but right now my plan is one at a time, because — as they said — I am 40 years old.

I’m focused for this fight against Adrien Broner. One at a time. After the fight on January 19 that night then we can talk about my next fight.

Could you rank your top five opponents as far as preparing for the fight and degree of difficulty?

M. Pacquiao

I think my top opponents are Oscar De La Hoya, Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera, Miguel Cotto, Floyd Mayweather, Erik Morales and Ricky Hatton.

What challenge does Adrien pose?

M. Pacquiao

We know already about his counter-punching. I know that he will wait for me and counter like Marquez did. I’m prepared for that and it will not happen again. I learned in the past and I have to correct my mistake.

Can you talk a little bit about what you felt when you saw Mayweather fight on New Year’s Eve and is there any comparison between Adrien Broner and Floyd Mayweather?

M. Pacquiao

Adrien Broner is not a tune up fight. He’s a former champion. He’s fast, he moves fast and he’s a good boxer. And that’s why I don’t want to talk about my next fight until we finish this. I finish this business against Adrien Broner on January 19.

And about the exhibition of Floyd Mayweather in Japan, it’s my first time to see an exhibition that you knock your opponent out. Supposedly an exhibition is just to entertain people and nothing serious for three rounds. That’s what I understand about exhibitions.

Do you have the desire to once again to be the undisputed Welterweight Champion?

M. Pacquiao

Let me take care of this January 19 and then I have to worry about who is my opponent next. I have no problem to fight anybody as long as there’s not a problem about negotiation. But my plan is just one at a time.

What do you think of Adrien Broner as an opponent and as a person heading into January 19?

M. Pacquiao

It’s unfair to him that people are thinking that he’s not a serious challenge for me. No, Adrien Broner is a good boxer, he’s a high-caliber boxer. He’s a former champion and he’s the kind of fighter that you cannot underestimate or take him lightly.

K. Swanson

Thank you so much Manny, for answering those questions, we appreciate it. We’re so happy you’re back fighting in the United States for all of us to be able to come and watch you.

M. Pacquiao

Thank you, guys. Nice to be back here in the United States. Thank you, God bless.

K. Swanson

Thanks, Fred. Okay, now we’re going to transition over to Adrien Broner. I’d like to introduce Ravone Littlejohn. He’s the CEO of About Billions Promotion and he will make the introduction of Adrien Broner. Ravone?

Ravone Littlejohn

At About Billions Promotions we’re happy to be promoting this fight as the premier event that we’ve had in our infancy as a company. Adrien has trained very well and very hard. He’s more than ready for his opportunity. We’d like to thank all the promotional entities who are involved in this fight. And at this time I’ll go ahead and pass it over to Adrien.

Adrien Broner

What’s up with everyone? What’s good? Training camp’s been great. I’m training my ass off. I’ve been focused and I’m just ready to go out there and prove all the naysayers wrong.

Adrien are you motivated by being am underdog in this fight?

A. Broner

It’s real motivating, but I don’t worry about it. I just don’t let it get to me. I just can’t wait for the bell to ring January 19.

If you beat Manny Pacquiao how much would that erase any bad feelings or negativity associated with your losses?

A. Broner

It definitely would. In life they say you’re only as good as your last performance, so it’s definitely going to sweep a lot of things under the rug.

What would it mean to you then to get that caliber of a victory? How big in the scheme of things would that be for you?

A. Broner

It’s going to be huge and I’m taking full advantage of it. I’m well-prepared and I’m just ready to go out there and perform.

There’s there’s been some news reports about some of your legal issues. Has that in any way impacted your training or focus on this fight?

A. Broner

No, that’s just something I’ll take care of after the fight. Right now I’m 100% focused on this fight and I’m just ready to come to the ring January 19 and get a victory.

My question is for Stephen Espinoza. Hey, Stephen, how are you? Just briefly, this event is a SHOWTIME PPV event on January 19. Do you have any comments on specifically Eddie Hearn and Oscar De La Hoya saying that PPV is dead in boxing?

And furthermore, do you think on a microeconomic level that PPV and American professional sports is dead?

S. Espinoza

Sure, I’m happy to. Look, on the concept of PPV we’ve consistently said that it’s a useful tool when it’s necessary, when you have a premium event. If you’ve got a filet mignon event, you’re going to have filet mignon prices. You don’t get filet mignon at the price of ground beef.

I think a lot of the blowback and the negativity around PPV comes when networks are trying to sell people PPVs that don’t belong there.

I didn’t hear too many people saying that Wilder versus Fury was not a premium event, a special event, a Heavyweight Title fight, an International Worldwide Title fight that deserved to be PPV

Likewise, on January 19 you have two of the biggest stars in the sport. Manny has a long history on PPV and the way this event was able to happen was through that tool. So these two events, plus Mayweather and McGregor, are the only PPVs we’ve done in the last three years.

So, I understand what Eddie Hearn and Oscar De La Hoya are saying. It’s a great marketing ploy and that’s really all it is is just a catchphrase because both of those guys rely on PPV and have relied on it as an integral part of their business in the past.

Eddie on one hand will say that they’re are terrible thing and they’re dead, but if we look at his U.K. business it’s basically all built on PPV.

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Oscar himself while he’s saying that boxing PPVs are dead is simultaneously selling an MMA PPV. So, the reality is, it’s a useful tool. It rewards the fighters for taking tough fights and it allows some fights to happen that wouldn’t otherwise happen without that tool. But it should be used sparingly.

Adrien, has that been frustrating for you that some people may not be taking you seriously?

A. Broner

No disrespect but I don’t care at all about Mayweather and Pacquiao or any other fights people are talking about. I’m focused on Adrien Broner and Pacquiao. I’m focused on getting this victory. And then I’m going to go to the drawing board with my team and make bigger moves.

Did you get a chance to see Pacquiao’s last fight against Lucas Matthysse? And if so, what do you think of Pacquiao and how his skills have sort of translated now being 40?

A. Broner

Pacquiao’s a legend. He’ll always go down as one of the best in the boxing business. But I just feel like it’s my time to take over this sport and I’m coming to take the throne from Pacquiao.

I just asked Manny on the previous call what his top five fights were in terms of preparation and degree of difficulty. He listed about six or seven and the top one was Oscar De La Hoya. You weren’t on the list. What do you think that says about him and do you think he’s in for a rude awakening?

A. Broner

I’m just focusing. I’m just ready to go in there and have a hell of a night and start a new chapter in my career.

Do you think that your counter-punching ability is the antidote to his style of speed, jumping in, being aggressive?

A. Broner

It’ll definitely play a big part but we’ve got more in store to beat Pacquiao and I will show that January 19.

What is the difference between the Adrien Broner who lost three fights and the one who is going into this fight?

A. Broner

My dedication to the sport. People who have seen me would 100% vouch for me. I know what’s at stake. A win over Pacquiao could take my career somewhere that I can only dream of. So I’ve got to take it seriously and I just really feel like it’s my time.

What are the things you’re looking at in camp that gives you the confidence that you can knock Manny out?

A. Broner

The knockout is good but I’m definitely just going for the win. I just want to win, pointblank, period. Everybody goes into a fight wanting to knockout. Who doesn’t want to knock someone out? But, you know, things will unravel on January 19.

Do you think that this is a must-win fight for you?

A. Broner

At the end of the day, if you’re a boxer, every fight is a must-win fight. You don’t ever want to go to a fight trying to lose.

As a competitor, as an athlete, when I prepare, I go in to win. I’m trying to win. It’s always a must-win situation.

I’m wondering what you perceive the stakes to be when you ponder this and say to yourself, “Okay, I’m going to beat Manny Pacquiao.”

A. Broner

I don’t look at that. Boxing is a sport where you’ve got to go a fight at a time. So, I’m focused on Manny Pacquiao and after that we’ll look at other things and other avenues.

Can you speak to the fact that you say this fight is for the ‘hood and how important it is to you to come out victorious?

A. Broner

Where I come from, man, we barely have seen someone to come out and be at the top level where I am today. So that’s why I’m doing this for the ‘hood to give back hope and show the young kids that they can follow their dreams.

That motivates me to just go in there and do my best. We’re going to go in there and get the victory.

JAIME MUNGUIA DISCUSSES PROMISING 2019 AS HE PREPARES TO DEFEND HIS WBO JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD TITLE AGAINST TAKESHI INOUE

LOS ANGELES (Jan. 11, 2019): Jaime Munguia (31-0, 26 KOs) discussed his busy plans for 2019 as he prepares to defend his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title against Japanese contender Takeshi Inoue (13-0-1, 7 KOs) in a 12-round battle. 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.

The native of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico is working hard to make a successful third defense of his title in what will be his debut in Texas. Munguia is working under the expert tutelage of renowned trainer Robert Alcazar, who trained the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Edwin Valero and Jessie Vargas. Munguia is training in the Southern California area, where he combines a morning run at the mountains with an intense boxing session at a private gym in the afternoon.

Below is what Jaime Munguia had to say during a recent training session:

“We are preparing very well. I feel better and more motivated than ever before.
I’m stronger than ever, and I will do my best to give the best fights for the people on this new platform, DAZN.”

“I have worked hard to be in the main events like this. I think for me this is just the start. I want to make history. I was happy to be the co-main event of Canelo vs. GGG 2, and now that I’m headlining this event, I am more motivated.”

“Takeshi Inoue is a strong fighter. He comes forward. He doesn’t mind taking a punch in order to land one. We have to be careful with that and come very prepared. We have to be careful with his right hand as well. We’re going to come very well prepared on Jan. 26.”

“After this fight, it looks like I will have a WBO mandatory bout against Dennis Hogan. But I would still like to unify the titles at 154 pounds with the other champions. We will resolve anything that is put in front of us.”

“The plan is to move up to 160 pounds in about a year. We’re fine making weight now. I have no problems, but I feel I can move up and fight in other divisions. My body is such that I could even go up to 168 pounds.”

Munguia on the other fighters in his division:

“I thought the fight was a draw [regarding Jermell Charlo vs. Tony Harrison]. Charlo should have attacked more and not wait as much. That’s my opinion of the fight. Tony Harrison is a good fighter. He’s tough and has good skills. If he is put in front of us-or anyone for that matter-we will have to work.”

“[Jarrett] Hurd is a very big 154-pounder. I think he’s bigger than me. If a fight with him is presented to me, why not? We can unify the tittles or meet at 160 pounds.”

“I don’t know what to say about the political situation because we are on different platforms. We will see if a fight against them can happen. Perhaps not this year, but maybe we can meet them at 160 pounds.

“I’ve heard the things they’ve said about me. Maybe they don’t respect me or think I’m too young. They’ve said a lot. I will make them respect me on the day they step in the ring with me.”

Munguia on a potential fight against Canelo:

“I don’t think there is any pressure with being mentioned with names like Canelo and Golovkin. I like this. It’s fun. I’m happy to be in fights like this and to see that we are advancing. So, the truth is we are happy.

“I am conscious of what I am doing. I think I can move up to 160 pounds and fight any of the two. It’s a risk because there will always be risks. Those are the two best fighters in the world. We would have to be very careful and come very well prepared. I don’t think it would happen soon, so we have to see what the future holds for us.”

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. 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.

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 orcopying
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.

DOCHERTY – I WANT TO FOLLOW IN RICKY BURNS’ FOOTSTEPS

John Docherty is determined to emulate gym mate and compatriot Ricky Burns by winning a World title of his own one day.

The Commonwealth Games bronze medallist trains alongside Scottish legend Burns at Tony Sims’ gym in Essex, where he is currently preparing for his third professional outing at The O2 in London on February 2.

Burns created history by becoming Scotland’s firs three-weight World Champion in May 2016 when he added Super-Lightweight glory to his Super-Featherweight and Lightweight titles by stopping Michele Di Rocco for the WBA title in Glasgow, and in doing so inspired a wave of new talent.

“Ricky is a legend in Scotland and someone that I’ve always looked up to,” said Docherty. “It’s an honour to train alongside him every day, I’ve already learnt so much from him. He’s one of the most dedicated fighters out there, never misses a session and always puts 100% effort in.

“His attitude is infectious, it’s great to be around people like him. He’s always sharing his knowledge and advice with me – I couldn’t be in a better place. He really is an inspiration to younger fighters like myself and I intend on taking full advantage of his wealth of experience.

“His dedication has taken him to the very top of the sport. It’s one thing having the talent and ability, but it’s his complete devotion to the sport that has got him to where he is today. I want to follow in his footsteps and bring a World title back to Scotland. I’m aiming high, but what’s the point being in this game if you don’t want to be the best?”

Docherty, 21, has made a perfect start to life in the paid ranks, blitzing Jordan Latimer in 8 seconds on his debut in Newcastle in October before halting Angel Castillo in Florence, Italy a month later, and the Former Team GB member is hoping to carry his explosive form into 2019.

“Everything has gone great so far,” added Docherty. “I just need to keep on doing what I’m doing in the gym and listening to Tony. I’m improving every day and I’ve got a great team around me.

“I’ve been getting some great rounds in with Craig Richards, Ted Cheeseman and Felix Cash. I’m feeling stronger than ever and I want another knockout on February 2nd.”

Docherty features on a huge night of action in London.

Bermondsey star Ted Cheeseman steps up again when he challenges undefeated Spaniard Sergio Garcia for the European Super-Welterweight crown.

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

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 strap, with more fights to be announced soon.

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)

Introducing Cody ‘The Crippler’ Crowley: Mayweather Sparring Partner and Undefeated Canadian Southpaw on the Verge of a Boxing Breakthrough

Growing up in Northern Ontario, Canada, Cody “The Crippler” Crowley got tired of giving his all to hockey and still losing, mostly because his teammates didn’t all share his tireless work ethic.

“I’m busting my ass and we still lose because other guys on the team weren’t trying as hard,” said Crowley, “that’s when I decided to go all in with boxing. I realized as much as I put into boxing, that’s what I get out.”

Now the undefeated CPBC Canadian and International Super Welterweight Champion, as well as his own promoter, Crowley (16-0, 9 KOs) will defend his titles against former Canadian champion Stuart McLellan (25-2-3, 10 KOs) in the 12-round main event of “Homecoming IV- Bad Blood,” on Saturday, February 9, at the Memorial Centre in Peterborough.

Tickets for “Homecoming IV – Bad Blood,” presented by Crowley’s CCC Promotions, 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).

“I used to tell my teachers I’m going to be a professional fighter and they would laugh and tell me to think about a real job,” recalls Crowley. The laughing stopped though, when he went on to win the Canadian Amateur Championship, three provincial championships and took bronze at the Commonwealth Games in 60 fights.

“After I graduated high school, I decided to go where the proper trainers and sparring partners are for me to advance, so I packed a bag and moved to Las Vegas.”

Crowley says at first no one was paying much attention to the unknown Canadian southpaw showing up at the gym every day. “I got there and started training and nobody saw anything in me at first,” he admits. “But when I was still there two months later, and they realized I wasn’t going anywhere, that’s when it all started to change.”

Crowley joined forces with Vegas-based trainer, and brother of former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman, Ibn Cason.

Cason, currently best known for his work with Rahman and former heavyweight champion Samuel Peter, says he immediately set about trying to polish the diamond he saw in his aggressive, but sometimes crude, protegee.

“Cody was like an octopus,” explained Cason. “He’s got a swarming style. He’s on you, no matter what, but I’ve been working on making him more of a thinking pressure fighter, like a Roberto Duran; not so crude in his approach. He’s still always going to be on you, but also, at the same time, he’s draining your energy and making you miss.”

“Growing up self-trained, the only thing I know is to bust my ass for all three minutes of every round,” said Crowley. “I’m a determined, scrappy, aggressive pressure fighter. But over the last two years, Ibn has really changed the way I think and move in the ring. I’m turning in to a smarter boxer. In my heart, I’ll always be a slugger, but Ibn has been adding new dimensions to my game.”

Other notable figures in Vegas soon began to take notice of the 25-year-old, dubbing him “White Lightning” in gym circles.

After a particularly impressive sparring session with an Olympic medallist, Crowley signed with a top promotional outfit in Vegas and won a couple fights for them.

But then, Crowley and Cason began the feel pressured to take fights they may not have been ready for.

“They started pushing very heavy opponents on us,” recalled Crowley. “With me not having as big of an amateur career as these guys and still working on refining my natural ability, we thought it was a little too far of a push. Why risk it? I really mean nothing to a big promotional company, so we made the decision to pull away from the big promoter and give me more time to master my craft before we start taking the ‘sink or swim’ fights.”

And so, soon after, Crowley’s CCC Promotions was born.

Crowley and Cason started putting on shows, and fighting and winning in the main events, back at the Memorial Centre in hometown Peterborough.

Fan reaction was strong from the start, but then the phone rang.

And it all changed again.

“Floyd Mayweather’s people called and invited me to camp when he was training for the Manny Pacquiao fight and needed southpaw work. But then the first day of training camp, they told me to leave. I’m 5’ 9” so I was a little bit too tall they said.”

In true Cody Crowley style, however, the scrappy Canadian just kept showing up at Mayweather’s Vegas gym and working hard, even if no one was watching.

“They told me to go, but I kept showing up. About two or there weeks into camp, Floyd called to me and told me to get in the ring. We went about 12 rounds straight. He tried everything to hurt me, but I kept with him. Everything was cool after that. I had everybody’s respect. I started getting attention back home.”

Crowley also went on to help Mayweather prepare for his next super fight against Conor McGregor.

“My fan base started to grow exponentially when word got back about what I was doing in the States,” said Crowley.

A Cody Crowley fight in Peterborough quickly became the hottest ticket in the city, where sell-out crowds of electrified fans from every walk of life come to cheer on their homegrown hero. In fact, the mayor of Peterborough even gave Crowley the key to the city and declared a Cody Crowley day. Canadian media have even flown to Vegas to do a documentary on his exploits.

Crowley has gone on to work with countless world champions in Vegas.

“I’ve been hired personally by 16 or 17 world champions including Tim Bradley, Zab Judah, Jorge Linares, the list goes on and on. I’m not just a sparring partner. I am the real deal. There’s a reason why these guys want me.”

Undefeated now in 16 fights, with a Canadian super fight looming next month, Crowley now sits on the verge of a breakthrough into the world boxing scene… and it was all because of his tireless hard work and refusal to given in.

“I picked up and moved and left my family and friends and everything I know to chase my dream. Some people said I was crazy, but now they’re all starting to see. I’ve got all kinds of businesses behind me, tons of fans and a great team at City Athletic Boxing Gym in Vegas. It’s a unique situation and I can’t wait to see what happens next.”

###

The exciting undercard, packed with Canadian and international talent, will be announced shortly.

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.

BITTER RIVALS DeGALE AND EUBANK JR. KEPT SEPARATED AT PROMO SHOOT

London (11 January 2019) The bad blood between James DeGale and Chris Eubank Jr. meant that the bitter rivals had to be kept well apart to film their ITV Box Office promotional video at the iconic Pinewood studios this week.

With the spectre of James Bond looming in the background, the pair had to be allocated separate filming times for their parts in the thrilling, soon to be released, commercial for their A Storm Is Coming showdown at The O2 on Saturday 23rd February, exclusively live on ITV Box Office.

The animosity stems from an infamous sparring session in 2011 when Harlesden’s DeGale, then preparing to challenge for a European title challenge, said that Eubank jumped out of the ring after six rounds instead of completing the eight rounds as agreed and disrespected him.

Brighton star Eubank, who had only had a handful of fights at the time, later claimed that he had ‘schooled’ DeGale, during the session which infuriated the Olympic Champion and the touch paper was lit for the most intense rivalry since Nigel Benn versus Chris Eubank Snr. in the 1990s.

For the last few years the pair have traded words, but they finally came face-to-face last week at the official press conference to announce the long awaited fight last week and ITV producers and executives did not want to take the risk of a fight before the BIG fight and kept them separated at all times during filming.

DeGale said, “I can’t stand him and I’m counting the down the days until February 23 when I get to finish him off once and for all for the good of British boxing. The posturing, his attitude, his personality, it’s all a joke to me, his career reminds me of a Carry On film. Believe me, he’ll be dropped to the cutting room floor.”

Eubank countered, “I’m glad I’m getting to him already, he’s done his best to avoid me since I arrived on the scene. He’s wanted no part of me and has done everything he can to dodge me until now. I was happy to film the commercial with him, I’m a man in control of my emotions, but clearly he’s not. James DeGale is history, like celluloid, I’m the future.”

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.

FLODIN: “I HAVE THE SIZE, SPEED AND POWER TO WIN”

Oliver Flodin (4-0) believes he has the necessary attributes to claim a career best win over Abdul Khattab (15-2-1, 4 KOs) when they clash in an eight-round Scandinavian middleweight thriller at the Struer Energi Park on January 19.

Flodin faces a significant step up in class as he takes on Khattab in just his fifth professional contest, but the 22 year-old from Jonkoping, Sweden, says he is pleased with his preparations and is confident of defeating his Danish rival.

“I’m very satisfied with my preparations. I’ve been in a good shape for a long time and I’m feeling strong,” says Flodin. “I’ve sparred a lot of rounds with Sven Fornling and Denis Radovan, and I’m now finishing my training in Karlsruhe.

“Khattab is the toughest opponent I’ve fought as a professional. He has a lot of experience, but I’ve sparred and fought the toughest and most experienced amateurs in my career, and I’ve sparred with other professionals that are more experienced than him, so I don’t think that will be a problem.

“I know he’s going to be a tricky opponent, but I’ve trained hard and I’m confident I can beat him. I have the size, speed and power to win!”

Khattab will have Mikkel Kessler, one of the best boxers to come out of Scandinavia, in his corner on fight night, yet, despite being a fan of the ‘Viking Warrior’, Flodin insists it will not affect his focus.

“I’m a big fan of Kessler. He was a great boxer in his prime, but that doesn’t bother me. I will just be focusing on what I’m doing,” says Flodin, who also has no issue fighting in his opponent’s home country.

“I don’t have a problem with fighting in Denmark either, and I’m expecting to have a good fan base from Sweden coming over to support me as well.”

Dina Thorslund tops the bill in Struer, defending her WBO Female World Super Bantamweight title against Alesia Graf, while former European Champion Dennis Ceylan rematches Jesus Sanchez for the EU Featherweight crown.

Oliver Flodin faces Abdul Khattab in a Scandinavian middleweight thriller, heavyweight hope Kem Ljungquist takes on Dominik Musil, Lolenga Mock continues his World title chase against Mateo Damian Veron, Mikkel Nielsen meets Bulgaria’s Angel Emilov, and Adam Bashanov faces Ivan Nikolov.

Tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.dk or by calling 70 15 65 65.

Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions & Rite Hook Promotions bringing pro boxing to Historic St. Petersburg Coliseum on Feb. 16

LAS VEGAS (January 10, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions and Rite Hook Promotions have jointly announced a co-promotion presentation, “St. Pete Fan Fest,” to be live-streamed on UFC FIGHT PASS©, on Saturday night, February 16, from historic St. Petersburg Coliseum in St. Petersburg, Florida.

“Roy Jones Jr and I are honored to work with such a hard-working and honorable promotion company like Rite Hook Promotions,” RJJ Boxing Promotions CEO/Co-Founder Keith Veltre commented. “William Hunter is a true class act in the sport of boxing. February 16th, RJJ Promotions along with Rite Hook Promotions will conquer the corner with outstanding fights. We have true warriors on this card who can now showcase their talent and let the world see what Tampa fighters have to offer.”

“I am super excited to be working with RJJ Boxing Promotions and UFC Fight Pass for our February 16th event,” Rite Hook Promotions president William Hunter said. “There are tons of talented fighters in the Tampa/St. Pete area along with loyal boxing fans. There are definitely some future world championship-caliber fighters on this event, male and female, who will showcase their talents in front of the world on February 16th.”

North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Continental Americas lightweight champion William “Baby Face” Silva (26-2, 15 KOs), a native of Brazil now fighting out of Plant City, FL, will headline in a 10-round bout.

Undefeated middleweight prospect Connor Coyle (8-0, 3 KOs), fighting out of Derry, Northern Ireland, is slated to fight in his first scheduled 10-rounder in the co-featured event.

Also scheduled to fight are St. Petersburg welterweight Clarence Booth (17-4, 9 KOs) in an eight-round match; unbeaten American Boxing Federation (ABF) Continental Americas welterweight titlist Mark Reyes (8-0, 6 KOs), of Tampa, undefeated Atlanta middleweight Javonn “Pinkie” Barnes (12-0, 6 KOs), unbeaten Tampa middleweight Antonio Tarver, Jr. (5-0, 4 KOs), the son of multiple world champion Antonio Tarver, and Tampa heavyweight Mike “Concrete” Bissett (14-11-1, 8 KOs) – all in six-round bouts – plus Tampa’s undefeated female junior bantamweight Jasmine Artega (5-0, 4 KOs) in a four-rounder.

All fighters are subject to change. Opponents will soon be announced.

“St. Pete Fan Fest” will be the second event of the RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS series. FIGHT PASS is a digital subscription service that is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. In 2019, FIGHT PASS will showcase more than 200 exclusive events featuring top promotions from around the world, providing fans with a front row seat to a broad spectrum of competitive fighting, including mixed martial arts, boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, individual and team submission grappling, and more.

Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

Tickets are priced at $75.00 (ringside),$50.00 (preferred seating), $40.00 (seated general admission) and $30.00 (general admission) and available to purchase by going on line at www.ritehookpromotions.com. VIP tables for 10 and eight are also available to purchase for, respectively, $1000.00 and $800.00.

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

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.ritehookpromotions.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @ritehookpromotions
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /Fitehookpromotions

BADOU JACK LAS VEGAS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

LAS VEGAS (January 10, 2019) – Former two-division world champion Badou Jack hosted a media workout at Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas Thursday as he prepares to take on unbeaten top contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title Saturday, January 19 on the Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by MP Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions in association with About Billions Promotions, are on sale now and start at $100, not including applicable service charges, and can be purchased online through AXS.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts International box office.

A resident of Las Vegas, Jack is preparing to fight in his adopted home city for the 11th time as a pro on January 19. He will be making his third appearance on SHOWTIME PPV, having won a light heavyweight crown against Nathan Cleverly in August 2017 on the Mayweather vs. McGregor event.

Here is what Jack, his trainer Lou Del Valle and Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe had to say Thursday:

BADOU JACK

“I feel young and like I’m still improving. I take care of my body every day. Age won’t be a problem for me, it’ll be an advantage.

“I’m a confident fighter. I don’t need to talk and brag about everything. I’m just comfortable; inside and outside of the ring.

“I’m battle-tested. I’ve been in there in tough fights. He hasn’t been tested like that, so we’ll have to see what he’s capable of when the pressure is on.

“Marcus Browne is an athletic and skilled fighter. But it’s a little different to fight on the prospect and contender level versus on this world class level.

“One of my biggest strengths in the ring is my ability to adjust. My trainer, Lou Del Valle, has really helped in that regard. He’s been in there as a world champion like me on the big stage. He knows so much about boxing.

“This is nothing new to me. I’ve been on a lot of big cards, so this is a regular day on the job. It’s exciting as always and I can’t wait to put on a good show.

“I feel like it’s my duty to give back outside of the ring. With this platform that I have, why wouldn’t I? We should use this platform for something deeper than boxing.”

On the Pacquiao vs. Broner SHOWTIME PPV main event:

“It’s a really good fight. Pacquiao looked pretty good in his last fight, but Broner is very talented. Anything can happen in boxing, especially because Broner has a good chin and can fight. He just has to stay focused.”

LOU DEL VALLE, Jack’s Trainer

“Camp has been amazing. Every camp has just been better and better. He has improved on his weaknesses each time we work together. It’s incredible that a guy who’s 35-years-old can keep performing the way he is and still be getting better.

“We know that we have to be careful because Marcus is a good fighter. Everyone we fight at this level is quality. We’re only fighting champions and guys with the top pedigree. The better the fighter, the better we get.

“I don’t think that Marcus Browne wants to go the distance with Badou Jack. If you notice in previous fights, guys who fight Badou are not the same after. He takes a lot out of them and I think it’s going to happen again. Marcus is going to go for the early knockout, but we’re ready.

“The experience gap is a big difference. I had only fought one 10-rounder when I first fought for the title, but I still thought that I could beat him. The experience that Virgil Hill had over me was really difficult to overcome and I think you’ll see something similar play out in this fight.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“I think that this is going to be a very competitive fight. You have two guys in this fight that are very hungry. There are a lot of options in the light heavyweight division, and it’s all about timing. This fight gives both guys a chance to prove that they want to be the best and make a great statement.

“This fight has a very good chance of stealing the show. I like the fact that Marcus is very confident. If you’re in a big fight, you have to be. Badou is even-keeled, and he comes with his workman-like approach to every fight.

“Experience is everything in big fights. It’s a big deal when you’re under those lights. Going the distance with top guys, and knowing how to break guys down, it all plays a big role in fights like this.”

# # #

ABOUT PACQUIAO VS. BRONER
Pacquiao vs. Broner is headlined by Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao,boxing’s only eight-division world champion, ending his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title against former four-division world champion and must-see attraction Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, January 19 in the main event of a SHOWTIME PPV® event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

The PPV begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature two-division world champion Badou Jack battling unbeaten top-rated contender Marcus Browne for the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title, former world champion Rau’shee Warren taking on France’s Nordine Oubaali for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship and unbeaten WBA Interim Featherweight Champion Jhack Tepora defending against former world champion Hugo Ruiz.

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports and www.mgmgrand.com, follow on Twitter @MannyPacquiao, @AdrienBroner, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, @MGMGrand and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.Facebook.com/MGMGrand.

DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI FINAL WEIGHTS, QUOTES & PHOTOS FOR SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION TOMORROW LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

SHREVEPORT – January 10, 2019 – Unbeaten lightweight and rising star Devin Haney and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni both made weight just a day before their ShoBox: The New Generation 10-round main event headlines a tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT) from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The precocious Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion who turned pro at age 17, headlines on ShoBox for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s 28-year-old Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), who like Haney is unbeaten and spent four months training at the Mayweather Gym in Las Vegas in 2017.

The event is promoted by Devin Haney Promotions and Bishop Promotions LLC, in association with Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. Tickets, starting at $30, are on sale now and available at www.akafights.com.

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, Calif., will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) of Colombia in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez (10-0, 8 KOs) of Cuba and former college football player Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) of Indianapolis, Ind., squaring off in another eight-round bout.

All the fighters weighed at Paradise Theatre located inside Margaritaville Resort Casino.

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Lightweight 10-Round Bout
Devin Haney – 134 ½ lbs.
Xolisani Ndongeni – 134 ¾ lbs.
Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

Featherweight 8-Round Bout
Ruben Villa – 126 ¾ lbs.
Ruben Cervera – 126 ½ lbs.
(Contracted weight is 128 pounds)
Referee: Laurence Cole (Dallas); Judges: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

Heavyweight 8-Round Bout
Frank Sanchez – 216 ¼ lbs.
Willie Jake Jr. – 239 ½ lbs.
Referee: Bruce McDaniel (Monroe, La.); Judges: Laurence Cole (Dallas), Pat Dayton (Monroe, La.), Mickey Lofton (Monroe, La.)

FINAL QUOTES:

DEVIN HANEY:
“This is a 10-round fight for the WBO Intercontinental and WBC International belts, so it’s a big deal. This is a true step up for me.

“It’s important for me build a name in different areas of the country. I’ve fought in Southern California and Philadelphia, and now I’m fighting in Louisiana. This fight I will show who Devin Haney is. In this fight I’ll showcase my skills and I’ll show my full arsenal.

“My style is not a style that people want to fight. I will fight whoever is out there. We haven’t been getting a lot call backs. I’ve had other offers from all the top promotion companies, but I want to remain independent and make my own decisions.

“My opponent has an awkward style. I know he has a lot of confidence and he thinks he can beat me. That’s great for him, but he hasn’t faced anyone with my combination of speed and power.

“At the end of my career I think it would be great if the world continued to say, ‘I don’t know if he can take a punch.’ That would be the goal.”

XOLISANI NDONGENI:
“I’ve trained and sparred with guys at Mayweather’s gym in Las Vegas for four months in 2017. I learned a lot got some great experience.

“I see a young, good prospect in Devin Haney. I just have to keep to my game plan. He doesn’t realize how fast I am. I’ll show some different looks, and know what he’s planning to do. Whatever Haney brings, I’ll adjust.

“I’ve been in some deep waters and I have more rounds than Haney. That experience will pay off for me.

“I’ve been knocked down once in my career. It was early and I came back to knock him down five times and won the fight.

“Haney wants to be called a contender. I’ve been a contender and I know what it takes to be at the top level of the sport. I’ve never taken a fight I wasn’t prepared for or thought that I couldn’t win.”

RUBEN VILLA
“This is exciting and what we’ve been working toward. The contracted weight is 128 for this fight, but I’m a natural featherweight at 126. I’m a southpaw but a natural righty. I throw a lot of jabs, that’s my style.

“I’m representing Salinas and want to be a world champion someday. I’m only 21 years old, and to already be fighting on ShoBox is a dream come true.

“People say I don’t have the knockouts, but it’s in my mind and they will come. The power and knockouts will come.

“I once beat Devin [Haney] by unanimous decision in the amateurs. I was 15, and it was in the finals of the Junior Olympics. Devin’s real slick and aggressive and he moves well. That’s how you beat him.

RUBEN CERVERA
“I’ve never been to the U.S., and I love it here. The press conference and the amount of attention this fight is getting is amazing. I’m used to watching this kind of stuff on T.V. But my mind is totally focused on this fight.

“I have power in all my punches. I’m a strong fighter who has to take a step up in my career. I’m young, only 20 years old, so I’m anxious to get my career going.

“I know Villa is a southpaw. I’ve fought lefties several times in my career and have had no problem with it.

“There is a lot of talent in Colombia, but there aren’t the resources there to have a good career. You have to sacrifice a lot and that’s what I’ve done.”

FRANK SANCHEZ
“I’m 6-foot-4 and use my height to my advantage. I defected from Cuba in 2016 and my family is still in Cuba. My brother is the only one here in the States with me.

“I’m living in Miami now and training there. That will be my home base now.
“I’d love to fight [Deontay] Wilder. I want to be world champion so maybe someday I will. His technique is a little bit wild.

“I had great amateur experience and am a former member of the Cuban national amateur team. I know that will help me. I know there’s never been a heavyweight champion from Cuba, and I plan to be the first one.”

WILLIE JAKE JR.
“Indianapolis is a tough town to be a boxer because there’s not a lot going on there.

“I played college football [for Pasadena City College] but I hurt my wrist and decided to go into the military.

“[Frank] is a little fellow. He needs some maturing. I know they do things differently there in Cuba, but we both are fighting for our families. I’m going to let him know he needs to be a cruiserweight.”

UFC vet Lawlor joins CES MMA broadcast booth

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Jan. 10th, 2019) — Thirteen-time UFC vet and former pro wrestler “Filthy” Tom Lawlor joins play-by-play announcer Michael Parente in the broadcast booth Jan. 19th, 2019 as CES MMA makes its UFC Fight Pass debut with CES MMA 54 from Twin River Casino Hotel.

After four years with AXS TV, CES MMA now joins forces with combat sports’ No. 1 streaming service, expanding its viewership and ushering in a new era of marketing and promotion. Since its inception in 2010, CES MMA has developed the careers of several current and former UFC standouts, including Andre Soukhamthath, Charles Rosa, Rob Font, and Mike Rodriguez, among others.

Known for his flamboyant weigh-in outfits and elaborate fight entrances, Lawlor debuted with the UFC as part of the promotion’s The Ultimate Fighter reality television series in 2008. The Fall River, Mass., native, who won three national championships as a wrestler at the University of Central Florida before launching his mixed martial arts career, boasts wins over Kyle Kingsbury, Patrick Cote and Michael Kuiper, the latter on UFC on FUEL TV 9 in 2015.

Lawlor will provide color commentary alongside Parente, CES MMA’s longtime publicist, for the promotion’s Fight Pass debut. An experienced media personality, Lawlor launched his own weekly wrestling podcast, the Filthy Four Daily, with Figure Four Online in 2015 and has also appeared on The Bryan and Vinny Show to discuss WWE SmackDown pay-per-view events in addition to Wrestling Observer Radio.

“I’m someone who’s always involved in the sport, whether it’s fighting, coaching, I spend very little time outside of the gym,” Lawlor said. “That’s the biggest positive I can bring to the broadcast team. I’m very excited to share my opinions and share my viewpoints on MMA on how it’s been, how it’s developed, and where it’s going in the future.

“I keep my finger on the pulse, not only with MMA in New England, but throughout the country and the entire world. You never know where the next superstar is going to come from. CES MMA has been able to develop a lot of good fighters and put them into the UFC, not only as a pathway from New England, but the United States as a whole. There is obviously world-class talent there and the more people that see it on Fight Pass, the better.”

CES MMA 54 features two five-round world-title bouts. CES MMA Lightweight World Champion Nate “The Snake” Andrews (14-1, 5 KOs) of East Providence, R.I., faces Bellator and Legacy Fighting Alliance alum Bryce Logan (9-3, 2 KOs) of Sioux Falls, S.D., in his second title defense while reigning bantamweight world champion Tony Gravely (15-5, 5 KOs) of Martinsville, Va., puts his belt on the line against Milford, Mass., prospect Kris Moutinho (7-2, 3 KOs).

The CES MMA 54 preliminary card begins at a special 2 p.m. ET matinee start time, followed by the Fight Pass live stream beginning at 3. Tickets start at $47 and are available online at www.cesmma.com or www.twinriver.com or by phone at 401-724-2253/2254. All bouts are subject to change.

Visit www.cesmma.com, www.twitter.com/cesmma or www.facebook.com/cesmma for more information, or follow CES MMA on Instagram at @CESMMA.

— CES —

MANNY PACQUIAO & ADRIEN BRONER LOS ANGELES MEDIA DAY QUOTES

LOS ANGELES (January 10, 2019) – – Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao,boxing’s only eight-division world champion, and former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner hosted media days in Los Angeles Wednesday as they near their SHOWTIME PPV® clash taking place Saturday, January 19 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao will end his two-year hiatus from a U.S. boxing ring when he returns to Las Vegas to defend his World Boxing Association Welterweight World Title against Broner. Along with co-trainer Buboy Fernandez and longtime trainer Freddie Roach, Pacquiao spoke to media and worked out for the cameras at Wild Card Boxing Club.

Broner traveled to Los Angeles from his current training camp in Las Vegas to talk to media along with his trainer Kevin Cunningham at Ten Goose Boxing Gym, after spending most of training in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Here is what the media day participants had to say from the split-site media day Wednesday:

MANNY PACQUIAO

“My journey in this sport is still continuing. I’ve accomplished everything I’ve wanted to, but I also want to continue to keep my name at the top. Even at 40-years-old, I can still show the best of Manny Pacquiao. I’m going to give the fans the speed and power that they’re used to seeing.

“I’m sure that Broner is focused on this fight. They are working hard and I expect him to be in great condition. We know how his trainer pushes him and has been pushing him in their training camp.

“I’m not taking this fight lightly. I don’t listen to any gossip about Adrien Broner, I just focus on my training. I want to be in 100 percent condition and ready for the fight on January 19.

“Adrien Broner is fast with his hands and he’s overall a good boxer. This is a big challenge that I’m excited for.

“Me, Freddie and Buboy know each other well and we have a great coaching staff right now. I’m happy with how everything has gone in training for this fight.

“Rest and recovery is definitely a key part of training. Sometimes when I work hard in the gym, my body can’t fully recover by the next day, so I’ve had to work more rest into the schedule. But as soon as I can, I’m back in the gym working hard.

“On January 19 I’m going to do my best. I can’t say a prediction, but I’m going to do the same thing I did for my last fight. My trainers know how hard I’ve worked in this camp for this win.

“My plan is to take it one fight at a time. I can’t talk about future fights until I do what I have to on January 19. You can ask me again after this one.

“This fight means a lot. It’s my first fight at the age of 40 so I’m excited to give my best and show the world what I can still do. Boxing is my passion, and public service is my mission. I love to bring honor to my country.”

ADRIEN BRONER

“Growing up and seeing Pacquiao fight, of course I always wanted to fight him. I’m a competitor. One day I want to be the best, and to be the best you have to beat the best. It starts here.

“This is my first PPV but I was always supposed to be here. God doesn’t make mistakes. After this victory, I will be taking over the sport of boxing. This is just the beginning.

“His last fight he did stop Matthysse, so I’m pretty sure he still has power. But I’m going to be ready, I’m going to be ready for whatever he brings to the table. We’re in shape to get it done, I can tell you that.

“This win makes me an icon. It makes me what I always wanted to be, and what everybody always thought I would be. A win here and I’m a legend overnight.

“It’s going to be a hell of a fight. I just can’t wait till round one. Everybody I fight says they are going to knock me out. That should be the objective of every fighter, but that’s not going to happen.

“The sky is the limit for me, but in boxing you have to take it one fight at a time. You can’t overlook anybody in this sport. My main focus is Manny Pacquiao and I will be ready.

“A win would mean a lot. It turns a new page in my book. It’s another beginning. I’m already a star in boxing, but a win here and I’m taking over the sport. This is just the beginning.

“It’s not a mystery – he’s been knocked out before. Not once, not twice, but three times. And he’s been put down a lot, too. There are many blueprints to beat Manny. I think I have all the tools to beat him. I will show all the tools in my arsenal and show all the weaknesses in his.”

BUBOY FERNANDEZ, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

“I think it’s going to be a knockout. If Broner opens the door, we’re going to get it early. I’ve seen from previous fights that he’s a slow starter. So we need to get inside and go first.

“We know that Broner is a good counter-puncher with a strong right uppercut. Broner is a real fighter and a smart fighter in the ring.

“I’m happy that Manny has shown that he moves as well as ever, even at 40-years-old. He’s learning even more now. I told the team that I think he’s already prepared for this fight.

“We just want him to maintain this shape and energy level. Manny is 110 percent ready. I don’t think there’s a fighter who can keep up with what Manny brings.”

FREDDIE ROACH, Pacquiao’s Co-Trainer

“I can’t wait for this fight. Camp has been great and he’s been training very well. Everything is back to normal and he’s looked amazing.

“Manny and I have been together 15 years, so I had no reason to ever be mad at Manny. Everything has worked out really well and we’re working together as a team right now.

“I’m working on the game plan for how to fight Broner. He’s a counterpuncher who doesn’t like to come forward too much. Manny will have to be the aggressor in this fight and use his feints to trap this guy into making it more of a fight.

“I feel we’re going to see an aggressive Manny Pacquiao. There’s a rumor that Manny has been telling people he’s looking for a knockout. I love that attitude. I think his knockout of Lucas Matthysse was so satisfying and he saw that that’s what the fans really want. I think that’s going to carry over to this fight.

“Pacquiao and I have a deal. Once his work ethic drops, I’m going to tell him and he’s agreed he’ll retire. His work ethic is unbelievable right now. He hasn’t slowed down at all. He hit me with a shot in the chest two or three days ago, and I’ve never been hit harder in my life.”

KEVIN CUNNINGHAM, Broner’s Trainer

“Everything went tremendous in Florida. I’ve never seen Adrien this focused and I’ve been around him for years. He came to camp with a look on his face like this is the one he’s got to have. He prepared for nine hard weeks and we didn’t miss a beat. Everting was on point.

“He’s ready. He’s focused. We had tremendous sparring. Everything went great. We didn’t have any hiccups, any injuries or setbacks. He’s ready to go and he’s going to look spectacular on January 19.

“Manny fights with a high punch volume and he’s aggressive with it. But sometimes he’s reckless with it. Adrien is a sharp counter-puncher. He gets off first and last. If Adrien comes to the ring mentally sharp like I know he will, because physically he’s as sharp as ever, as long as his mind is on point, I think it’s going to be a long night for Manny and it’s the wrong fight for Manny.

“There’s a lot there to exploit. I know Manny throws a lot of punches and Adrien doesn’t throw a lot, but this fight is not about matching Manny’s punch count. This fight is about throwing the right shots at the right time.

“There’s a big difference in Adrien from the last camp. He didn’t take Jessie Vargas as seriously as he’s taking this legendary eight-time world champion in Manny Pacquiao. There were some things that went on that showed he wasn’t as focused as he is for a fight like this. He’s just been on point. He’s not screwing around. He’s not looking for days off to go have a good time. He’s just locked in on Manny Pacquiao.”

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports and www.mgmgrand.com, follow on Twitter @MannyPacquiao, @AdrienBroner, @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions, @MGMGrand and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.Facebook.com/MGMGrand.

THE FIFTH ANNUAL BOX FAN EXPO WILL TAKE PLACE ON CINCO DE MAYO WEEKEND, SATURDAY MAY 4TH, 2019 IN LAS VEGAS

Las Vegas (January 10th, 2019)- Great News for Boxing fans and the Boxing industry with the announcement of the fifth annual Box Fan Expo, returning once again at the Las Vegas Convention Center on Saturday May 4, 2019 from 10am to 5pm, during Cinco De Mayo weekend.

The Box Fan Expo is looking forward and thrilled of opening its doors to boxing fans from all over the world as well to all major boxing companies, promoters and industry people during this traditional and special Mexican holiday fight weekend. We will also see later that evening, one of the biggest boxing stars, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez defend his championship belts versus another top fighter (opponent to be announced shortly) at the T-Mobile arena in Las Vegas.

From Las Vegas, the boxing mecca of the world, last year’s Box Fan Expo was a huge success. Over three thousand five hundred enthusiastic fans from all over the globe had a chance to meet and greet some of their favorite fighters, including current and former world champions, top fighters of today and many of the boxing celebrities such as Thomas Hearns, Andre Ward, Mikey Garcia, James Toney, Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Fernando Vargas, Errol Spence Jr., Shawn Porter, David and Jose Benavidez Jr., as well as Abner Mares, Badou Jack, Jessie Vargas, Zab Judah and many other top fighters who took pictures, signed autographs and celebrated with their fans during Mexican Independence Day fight weekend. Fans also had an opportunity to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from certain top fighters and companies involved in the sport of boxing.

It was also last year’s Inaugural “Box Fan Expo Invitational 2018” where we had several number one and top seated USA amateur boxers compete against the best in their division and more importantly in front of boxing fans that attended the Expo as well as family and friends. Those invited to compete had a chance to also get noticed by top boxing companies and industry people that were present that day during the event. The Box Fan Expo Invitational was delighted to be sponsored by Mayweather Promotions and adidas Boxing.

The Box Fan Expo Invitational also had an opportunity to collaborate and help the Fernando Vargas Fighting Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing youth with a constructive alternative to self-defeating behavior through athletic, academics and community service programs. Their programs include role model mentors and a “giving inner city kids a fighting chance” philosophy that impacts an average of 400 kids a year.

About Box Fan Expo
Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last four Expos such as Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Juan Manuel Marquez, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Roy Jones Jr., Marcos Maidana, Andre Ward, Errol Spence Jr., Sergio Martinez, Keith Thurman, Danny Garcia, Tim Bradley, Deontay Wilder, Amir Khan, Shawn Porter, Fernando Vargas, Zab Judah, James Toney, Vinny Pazienza, Mikey Garcia , Mia St.John, Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares Maricela Cornejo, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Jorge Linares, Brandon Rios and many more…

Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, new equipment’s, energy drinks, alcohol, supplement products, broadcasting media, sanctioning bodies and other companies who wish to participate will once again have a chance to showcase their brand to fans, media and the boxing industry.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at:
https://boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com

Box Fan Expo is the ultimate boxing fan experience event, which allows fans to Meet and Greet Boxing Superstars of today, current and former world champions, Legends of the sport and other boxing Celebrities at their booth. On Site, fans will experience different activities from Autograph Sessions, Photo Sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, as well as a chance to purchase merchandise and memorabilia from their booth, plus so much more… you won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!

Box Fan Expo will also feature top boxing organizations, promoters, ring card girls, famous trainers and commentators as well as boxing gear companies “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”.

Throughout the next several months leading up to the Event, there will be weekly updates on the many stars that will commit their appearance at the Boxing Expo. And for anyone in the Boxing industry or other Exhibitors (non-industry), who would like to be involved and reserve a Booth, contact Box Fan Expo:

Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

For More information on Box Fan Expo visit: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram: @BoxFanExpo

Follow Box Fan Expo on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

GARNER: “I WANT TO BE IN FIGHTS LIKE WARRINGTON-FRAMPTON”

Ryan Garner has been inspired by the recent Featherweight thriller between Josh Warrington and Carl Frampton and believes 2019 is his year.

The precocious 21-year-old from Southampton wants some boxing bling to accompany his obvious talent and is adamant that he wants to get into the belt business in 2019.

The Piranha, as he is otherwise known, enters into his ninth professional contest at the Morningside Arena in Leicester on February 23 to kick off a year he strongly suspects will be a defining one for him.

“Why is this year going to be my year?” said the spiteful punching featherweight. “Because this year I am going to be active and busy – and I believe I am going to win a title this year.

“I believe I am going to win something. Anything really, the English, the WBO European or Intercontinental, I just want to win one.”

Garner’s own train of thought is that his apprenticeship has been served and he is ready to participate in some genuine punch-ups against equally willing opponents.

“One hundred per cent, this is the year where I know myself – having been a pro for three years – that this is where I need to step up and face people of a much better level than I have been facing so far.

“So I need to keep my head focused, train my b*lls off and get myself ready.

“I think it will make me look even better and I will enjoy it. These people I have been fighting are half trying just to survive. It makes it harder sometimes.

“I think when people start throwing back that is when I will start stopping people even more because they will leave themselves open.”

Garner concedes that entering into open warfare in the ring is what he enjoys most and it is not something he is prepared to change, bar a little tightening of the defences. He is in the entertainment business and he knows it.

“Definitely, with my style it is always going to be an exciting fight and every fight I’ve had has been that way. It is just the way I am, I am front-foot, aggressive and I won’t change.

Those are my main attributes, my workrate and punch variety, but I need to do little things to not get hit as much so we are tweaking things.

“But my style is what makes me entertaining and you don’t want to take that away from me. It works for me and that is what people want to see on television. Look at the likes of Gatti who everybody wanted to watch.

“When I am fighting I want people to think ‘I’m going to watch that Ryan Garner because he is always in good fights’.

“I want to be in fights like the Warrington-Frampton one,” added the cherubic-looking pugilist, who confirmed that he definitely intends to campaign as a nine-stoner in his bid for honours.

“I am a featherweight, definitely. I was 9st 1lb for my last fight so I was only a bit over. With my nutritionist for my last fight it was the best I have felt going into it. I made the weight and felt totally fresh.”

Tickets for the British super featherweight title clash between Sam Bowen and Ronnie Clark on Feb 23 at the Morningside Arena, featuring Ryan Garner, are available from £40 are on sale NOW via Eventbrite

‘PHILLY SPECIAL’ UNDERCARD FEATURES RIVERS vs. WHITLEY IN BATTLE OF UNBEATEN

PHILADELPHIA, PA — A rare six-round contest between a pair of unbeaten welterweight prospects–Marcel Rivers, of North Philadelphia, and Derrick Whitley, Jr., of Springfield, MA–highlights the preliminary card of Raging Babe’s ‘Philly Special’ on Friday evening, Feb. 8, at the 2300 Arena.

Headlining the eight-fight program is an eight-round bantamweight match-up between undefeated Christian Carto, of South Philadelphia, and Victor Ruiz, of San Diego, CA. First bout is at 7.30 p.m.

Rivers, 31, has won all six of his pro fights, four by knockout. A single father, he balances boxing with a full-time, physically taxing job at Philadelphia Gas Works. Rivers, the sole caregiver for his 6-year-old son, Cameron, recently added another “why” to his quest to become a world champion. His new baby daughter, 4-month-old Jennah, provides him with new inspiration.

“I definitely have an incentive to work even harder now,” said Rivers. “It’s an honor to be on this card, with all the talent. A lot of these guys have backing, but I have come out of nowhere and found my way, so I appreciate the opportunity to fight on this card.”

Whitley, Jr, 27, a southpaw, is unbeaten in five pro fights with one draw. He comes from a fighting family–his dad and uncle were veteran pros.

Derrick Whitley, Sr., had 52 pro fights from 1995 to 2007. Uncle Darren–twin brother of Whitley, Sr.–had 44 pro fights from 1995 to 2003. Both fought as super middleweights and light-heavyweights.

The younger Whitley trains at the family gym. He works with adults who have had brain injuries, a career he has pursued for many years. He also plays semi-pro football.

“Rivers vs. Whitley was not the easiest fight to make,” said matchmaker J Russell Peltz, “given the culture of boxing today where few fighters want to risk their spotless records at such an early stage. These two guys are different and I applaud them for it.”

In a six-round heavyweight bout on the Feb. 8 card, North Philadelphia’s Darmani Rock (13-0, 8 KOs) will look to secure his 14th win. Rock was a highly touted amateur with multiple national and international titles. He signed with Jay Z’s Roc Nation in 2016 before turning pro. Rock is trained by his father, Wayne, AKA Whiz.

The Feb. card also includes the highly anticipated professional debuts of two of Pennsylvania’s most promising amateurs in four-round fights. Heavyweight Sonny Conto, of South Philly, and bantamweight Jeremy Adorno, of Allentown, PA, announced last week that they had signed with Top Rank Boxing.

Conto, 22, was a standout baseball player at Rowan College at Gloucester County before turning his attention to boxing. He takes on Jimmy Levins, of Buffalo, NY. Jeremy Adorno, younger brother of fellow Top Rank signee Joseph Adorno, was born in Puerto Rico. He boasts an amateur record of 106-17 with multiple Silver Gloves National titles and two Ringside World titles under his belt.

Coatesville, PA, junior welterweight Gerardo Martinez (3-1, 1 KO) faces Haitian-born Osnel Charles (12-18-1, 2 KOs), of Atlantic City NJ, who has appeared at the 2300 Arena in four of his last seven fights. This also is scheduled for four rounds.

Rounding out the card: New Hope, PA, bantamweight Alejandro Jimenez (4-0, 1 KO) vs. Edgar Cortes (6-4), of Vineland, NJ, in a six-round, bantamweight contest; Puerto Rican-born Jonathan Torres (1-0), of Bethlehem, PA, vs. Atlantic City bantamweight Dallas Holden (1-3) over four rounds.

“You have Gerardo Martinez with a 3-1 record going up against a 31-fight veteran in Osnel Charles,” said Peltz. “Or Alejandro Jimenez, at 4-0, fighting a capable 10-fight lefty in Edgar Cortes. There are times when four- and six-round fights are more appetizing than some of the so-called big fights you see on television.”

Tickets to “Philly Special” are priced $50, $75 and $125. They can be purchased online at www.2300arena.com or by calling 215-765-0922. Doors open at 6:30 pm and first bout is at 7:30 pm.

MUNOZ: “ALL THE PRESSURE IS ON CEYLAN”

Jesus Sanchez’s (9-1, 2 KOs) coach Luis Munoz says all the pressure is on Dennis Ceylan (19-2-2, 8 KOs) ahead of their rematch for the EU Featherweight title on January 19 at the Struer Energi Park in Denmark.

Sanchez recorded a second round knockout win over Ceylan on March 10, a result which shocked the fans in Struer, but came as no surprise to the Spanish Champion and his coach, who are predicting a repeat performance.

“It wasn’t a surprise for us,” says Munoz. “When we accepted the fight, we knew we could win. We have a lot of respect for Dennis and know he is a good fighter, but we knew we could beat him, and we’re confident of doing it again.

“Jesus is stronger than Dennis, and we know from the first fight that it’s possible to knock him out. However, we’ve not prepared for this fight thinking about a knockout. Jesus will be ready to go all twelve rounds, if needed.

“All the pressure is on Ceylan. For him this fight is all or nothing. A defeat would mean the end of his career. He is the favourite and fighting at home, so he has a lot to prove not just to himself but to his fans and promoter as well.”

Munoz insists Sanchez is prepared to upset the odds once again and claim a second victory away from home against the former European Champion.

“We’re 100% ready,” he says. “Jesus is always disciplined and dedicated to training. We are focused exclusively on this fight. We’ve studied our rival, we know our strengths, and we know the best tactics to follow.”

Tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.dk or by calling 70 15 65 65.

STAR BOXING YEAR IN REVIEW: A LOOK BACK AT 2018

New York, New York, January 9, 2019

2018 was certainly a memorable year for Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

Leading a year of many highlights was the highly anticipated return of former WBO Super Lightweight Champion Chris Algieri. On November 30th, Algieri ended a two year hiatus from the ring, winning a shutout unanimous 10 round decision over Angel Hernandez, before a boisterous sold out crowd at The Paramount in Huntington, New York. Algieri made his first title run as a staple of Star Boxing’s Paramount shows, and the Hernandez bout was a true homecoming for the Huntington Long Islander whose loyal fans continue to give their unwavering support.

In dispatching Hernandez, Algieri left no doubt that the layoff has taken none of the luster off his superb boxing ability. In fact, under new trainer Andre Rozier, he has expanded his already ample fighting tool box. Algieri has never lost a fight at 140 lb. He is looking toward his next fight at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden on January 18 (DAZN 6 PM) against stablemate Danny Gonzalez as the next step in a rapid path toward regaining the World Championship. The boxing world will be watching his return with great anticipation in 2019.

2018 also saw the successful return of Cletus “Hebrew Hammer” Seldin to the world stage. After looking sensational in his November 2017 appearance, destroying Roberto Ortiz (at the new Nassau Coliseum), Seldin suffered a severe elbow injury in his first loss against Yves Ulysses of Canada the following month, which required Tommy John Surgery. Cletus used the focus and determination he has so often displayed in the ring to work his way through a laborious rehabilitation and ten month layoff. Returning to the ring in November 2018, Seldin looked like a force of nature dispatching Nelson Lara in the opening round of a bout televised live on ESPN+ with his signature vicious body punching. Seldin appeared as sharp and as motivated as any time in his career, and left no doubt that he is a contender who must be reckoned with in the 140lb. division. Before his injury, Seldin had 3 fights in 4 months including two in consecutive months (November and December) on HBO, a distinction held by only Mike Tyson, Roy Jones and now Cletus Seldin. Less then 2 months after the Lara bout, Seldin will be back in the ring against veteran puncher, Hungarian, Adam Mate on January 26th, at Mohegan Sun, on his march toward a possible world title challenge at Super Lightweight in 2019.

In 2018, Joe “The Beast” Smith, Jr. returned to form, displaying his vaunted punching power, with a convincing one round knockout of Melvin Russell in their 10 round light heavyweight contest held at Mohegan Sun in June. The bout followed Smith’s valiant 2017 effort against top rated light heavyweight contender Sullivan Barrera. After registering a first round knockdown against Barrera, the always dangerous Joe Smith Jr. fought bravely for 10 rounds with a severely broken jaw – demonstrating his blue collar, union-made American grit. The bout marked a temporary setback for Smith, who after thrilling many audiences at the Paramount earlier in his career, was coming off a spectacular 2016 where he was runner-up for fighter of year, upset of year and knockout of the year following his successive knockout victories over Andrzej Fonfara and legendary Bernard Hopkins. As one of the hardest punchers in boxing today, Smith is just one punch away from making himself a World Champion. Smith was scheduled to fight for the World Championship on December 15, 2018 at Madison Square Garden. However, World Champion Artur Beterbiev pulled out of the fight since his trainer was concerned that he needed more time to prepare against such a devastating puncher such as Joe Smith, Jr. Star Boxing promises to give Joe Smith, Jr. a World Championship title opportunity in 2019.

Rhode Island’s Native Warrior, Kali “KO Mequinonoag” Reis, is a force to be reckoned with in the welterweight division and 2018 was the year in which Reis reminded the world of women’s boxing of this fact. Reis, the former three-time world’s middleweight champion impressed the boxing world in her performance on HBO against undisputed champion and #1 pound-for-pound female fighter, Cecilia Braekhus, by scoring a knock down against the welterweight champion, forcing the action, and giving her all she could handle until the final bell. While Reis is already deserving of another title shot, she intends to keep active until she gets it. In her last bout on October 18th, Reis continued to display her power and skill scoring a 6th round knockout over Szilvia Szabados in Washington, DC. Reis now looks to return home, to New England and put her full warrior spirit on display at the Mohegan Sun on January 26th on her way to another title shot.

Another Star boxer who rose in prominence in 2018 was Danny “El Gallo” Gonzalez. Gonzalez made his mark before a sold-out crowd at the Paramount in September, in an engrossing, thrilling, tooth and nail war against Johnny “The Hitman” Hernandez. The crowd was so loud it was deafening. The bout was a war of attrition and proved to be a spectacular fight. Gonzalez finished a bit stronger as the ten-round epic battle came to a close with everyone standing and cheering. When the scores were read to a captivated crowd, the elated new ABO INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION, Danny Gonzalez dropped to his knees at the center of the ring in celebration. Gonzalez’s victory improved his record to 17-1-1 (6 KO’s). The win, his third straight of the year, all at the Paramount, earned him the accolade of ABO fighter of the year and a January 18, 2019 date with stablemate Chris Algieri at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden. In Algieri, a former world champion, he will be facing he greatest test to date. With a possible world title opportunity and bragging rights in the Star Boxing stable hanging in the balance, Gonzalez is looking to make the new year the best of his career.

Star Boxing was also thrilled to add two notable fighters to its roster in 2018. In July, undefeated welterweight and Detroit native, Ronnie “Teflon Ron” Austion was signed to a promotional agreement. Austion returned to the ring in November under the Star Boxing banner scoring a knockout victory. Ronnie currently fights out of Las Vegas, Nevada, and with Star Boxing’s guidance, will look to continue to defend his undefeated record, while setting his sites on the ultimate goal of earning a world title. Austion will be showcasing his skills on January 26th at the Mohegan Sun.

In November, Star Boxing announced the signing of undefeated French super welterweight, former WBA Continental Middleweight Champion and current French Super Welterweight Champion, David Papot (Saint Nazaire, France, 22-0 3KO’s) to a long-term promotional agreement. Papot, who is currently rated the #9 Middleweight in the World (WBA) has successfully defended his French Super Welterweight title twice. Papot fought a total of thirty bouts with the French national team, reaching the quarter-finals of the European Championship. Star Boxing is poised to bring Papot international recognition and help him achieve world title aspirations.

2018 also saw the continuance of Star Boxing’s popular “Rockin Fights” series at the Paramount in Huntington, NY. CEO Joe DeGuardia showed his allegiance to the sport he loves by keeping the highly popular series as prolific as ever, maintaining its status as a centerpiece of the New York boxing scene. Star Boxing also continued its equally popular and long-standing “Slugfest at the Sun” series at Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, CT.

Other Star Boxing fighters had success in 2018 including undefeated prospects Tyrone “Pretty Boy” James, who notched three victories in 2018, all at the Paramount, and displayed excellent punching power in maintaining his perfect record against Leo Carrizales in November, and “Action” Anthony Laureano who also tallied three victories in 2018, was named Connecticut’s Boxer of the Year and fights next on January 26th at Mohegan Sun.

Fellow Star Boxing stablemates, Joel Tambwe “Big Joe” Djeko, Anthony Karperis, Johnny Hernandez, Danny O’Connor, Dean Burrell, Tyrell Bostic, Courtney Pennington, Michael Stoute, Valerio Nocera, Angel Suarez and Wendy Toussaint join us all in looking forward to 2019!

Star Boxing found much success in 2018 from many different avenues including the sold out “Rockin’ Fights” series, the Mohegan Sun series “Slugfest at the Sun,” that is now being televised by NESN, the appearance of Star Boxing fighters on the likes of HBO and DAZN and Star’s excellent and continuing successful relationships with many promoters in the industry such as Golden Boy, Top Rank, Matchroom Boxing, and others. With the success of quality veteran fighters, and the signing of new and exciting talent, 2019 will prove to be yet another successful year for Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

GET TICKETS TO “SLUGFEST at the SUN” AT MOHEGAN SUN TODAY!
FIGHT: SATURDAY , JANUARY 26TH, 2019

BE THERE TO SEE KO ARTIST CLETUS “HEBREW HAMMER” SELDIN RETURN AGAINST PUNCHER ADAM MATE IN THE MAIN EVENT!
BUY TICKETS HERE!

GET TICKETS TO “ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 34” AT THE PARAMOUNT TODAY!
FIGHT: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 22ND, 2019
BUY TICKETS HERE!
STAR BOXING would like to thank all of our sponsors for a successful 2018. With numerous events across the country and the world including those at The Paramount, Mohegan Sun, StubHub Center, Chesapeake Energy Arena, TD Garden, and in diverse places such as New York, California, Connecticut, Oklahoma, Ireland and Belgium, Star Boxing will keep on swinging in 2019, in large part to our great sponsors!

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ABOUT STAR BOXING ®
For a quarter century, Star Boxing keeps on swinging! Star Boxing has consistently delivered boxing events of the highest caliber and attracts loyal fans from all corners of the globe. From the Antonio Tarver – Roy Jones trilogy to the meteoric rise of Chris Algieri and Joe Smith Jr. from the Rockin’ Fights Paramount Series, Star Boxing continues to work with and develop world rated contenders and red hot prospects into future world champions. Star Boxing is revered worldwide throughout the industry for its credibility, integrity, and exciting fights.

For more information on Star Boxing, visit official website:
www.StarBoxing.com

DEVIN HANEY vs. XOLISANI NDONGENI FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES & PHOTOS

SHREVEPORT, La. (January 9, 2019) – One of boxing’s most promising rising stars, unbeaten lightweight Devin Haney, and fellow undefeated Xolisani Ndongeni, kicked off fight week with a final press conference Wednesday at Paradise Theatre in Margaritaville Resort Casino ahead of their ShoBox: The New Generation main event bout this Friday, January 11 at 10 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from StageWorks of Louisiana in Shreveport.

The 20-year old Bay Area native and current Las Vegas resident Haney (20-0, 13 KOs), a seven-time national junior amateur champion, headlines the popular prospect-oriented series for the third time when he takes on South Africa’s Ndongeni (25-0, 13 KOs), an unbeaten 28-year-old who once held the IBO’s belt at 135 pounds.

In the ShoBox co-feature, featherweight prospect Ruben Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) will take on Ruben Cervera (10-0, 9 KOs) in an eight-round matchup. The telecast will open with young heavyweights Frank Sanchez Faure (10-0, 8 KOs) and Willie Jake Jr. (8-1-1, 2 KOs) squaring off in another eight-round bout.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say:

DEVIN HANEY
“After this fight I want the whole world to know I’m no longer a prospect. I’m a contender.

“I feel I have something to prove. I’m not just going for the win on Friday night, I want to make a statement. I want to look good. I want to show the world what I’m capable of.

“I think that with a win against a fighter like Ndongeni, the sky is the limit. This fight is going to take me to the next level.”

Xolisani Ndongeni
“Come Friday night, it’s going to be show time. Because, with all due respect, I’m no pushover and I didn’t come here to lose.

“I’ve been in the game for a long time. I have fought many styles and I’ve seen it all. I’m not scared.

“We are not looking for anything less than a win. I’m not leaving here without one.”

RUBEN VILLA
“I know my opponent is a really good fighter but I don’t feel any additional pressure. This is what we trained for – a tough fight. I’m excited for Friday night. I’m eager to perform.

“Being able to fight on TV is going to finally put me on the map. After Friday night, people are going to be talking about me. They are going to see what I’m made of.”

RUBEN CERVERA
“I’m originally from Colombia and traveling all the way here has not been easy, but we came ready. We had a very successful camp. We did everything we wanted to do and more.

“I’m excited to fight on national television in the United States. I want to showcase what Colombian fighters are made off.

“I know my opponent is good, and undefeated, but only the best man will win, and that is going to be me.”

Willie Jake Jr.
“I’m thankful for the opportunity. This is an important fight for me. During training camp, I took one day at a time, step by step. I’m prepared for the challenge.

“I don’t underestimate my opponent, I will listen to my corner and I will put up a great fight.

Media Workout: Oscar Valdez and Teofimo Lopez Hit Frisco to Promote Super Saturday Extravaganza

FRISCO, Texas (Jan 9, 2019) — Two of boxing’s biggest stars — WBO featherweight champion world champion Oscar Valdez and undefeated lightweight sensation Teofimo Lopez — worked out for fans and media Wednesday to promote the Super Saturday quadruple-header, which will take place Saturday, Feb. 2 at Ford Center at the Star in Frisco, Texas.

Valdez vs. Carmine Tommasone will headline the ESPN/ESPN Deportes world championship doubleheader (10 p.m. ET) that also features the IBF lightweight world title fight between Richard Commey and Isa Chaniev.

The action will then turn to the OTT streaming service ESPN+ at 12 a.m., as Lopez versus Diego Magdaleno will serve as the co-feature to boxing’s most anticipated rematch — the WBO light heavyweight world title bout between champion Eleider “Storm” Alvarez and former division kingpin Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev.

From the Tostitos Championship Plaza at Ford Center at The Star, this is what Valdez and Lopez had to say.

Oscar Valdez

On training with Eddy Reynoso

“It’s been great training with Eddy. He’s not only worked on the things I’m good at, but he’s added a new element to my game. I know I can improve my defense while still being the same action fighter that fans are used to seeing.”

On Carmine Tommasone

“He is a tough, undefeated fighter, and I know I have to be 100 percent ready. Camp has gone great, and after a long time off, I can’t wait to fight again.”

On the recovery from the broken jaw suffered versus Scott Quigg

“Everything is great. I took enough time off to make sure my jaw was fully recovered, so when I got back to training, I was 100 percent ready. I can’t wait to show the fans a new Oscar Valdez on Feb. 2.”

Teofimo Lopez

“‘The Takeover’ is coming to Frisco on Feb. 2. Every time I fight, I steal the show, and Feb. 2 will be no different.”

“I’m not a prospect anymore. 2019 is the year I go from contender to fighting for a world title.”

“I don’t feel the pressure. When you’re blessed with the talent that God has given me, you don’t worry about that. This is another great opportunity to showcase my talent.”

On his first-round KO of Mason Menard

“A lot of people wanted to see if I could come back from the hand injury, and I showed everyone that it wasn’t an issue. No matter what, I’ll overcome any adversity.”

On fighting a southpaw in Diego Magdaleno

“I look at it as I want to show everyone that we enjoy fighting southpaws. Orthodox or southpaw, it doesn’t change anything. The outcome will be the same.”

Promoted by Top Rank, Main Events and Krusher Promotions, in association with Groupe Yvon Michel, tickets priced at $225, $165, $85, $55, and $25 (including facility fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at SeatGeek.com.

7 p.m. – 10 p.m. — ESPN+ — Undercard Fights
10 p.m. – 12 a.m. — ESPN / ESPN Deportes — Oscar Valdez vs. Carmine Tommasone & Richard Commey vs. Isa Chaniev
12 a.m. — ESPN+ — Eleider Alvarez vs. Sergey Kovalev 2 & Teofimo Lopez vs. Diego Magdaleno

SERRANO: I WON’T STOP AT SEVEN DIVISIONS!

Amanda Serrano says she can win World titles in EIGHT weight divisions – but first must defeat Eva Voraberger for the vacant WBO Super-Flyweight title at the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden, New York on Friday January 18 to land a World title in her seventh weight class live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM WWW.MSG.COM – TICKETS START AT $46!

Serrano guns for seventh heaven when she meets the Austrian in the Big Apple and the Brooklyn-based Puerto Rican star can surpass Mexican legend and six-weight world champion Oscar De La Hoya – and will not rule out joining Manny Pacquiao as an eight-weight ruler in the future, saying weight is no obstacle thanks to her frame and work-ethic.

“As a Puerto Rican, there’s a rivalry with Mexico so I want to beat Oscar’s number next week!” said Serrano. “Maybe we should then go for Pacquiao and hit an eighth weight?

“I haven’t really sat down and acknowledged what I’ve done. My trainer tells me it’s huge and that being the third fighter to win World titles at seven weights is amazing. A little Latina from Bushwick can make history, it’s great.

“The weight is not an issue when you have a great team behind you. My MMA coach came to California to help with my nutrition to drop the weight down so it’s been fun really, I have been trying new things anyway and saw how fast the weight was coming down.

“I’m a small girl so it’s better for me to drop weight rather than go up in weight but with hard work and dedication I feel I can go up and down in weights. My last fight was at 140 where I had to run less and eat more, so this has just been the opposite of that. I always train hard and I’m in the gym 365 days a year.

“Eva’s a champion, she’s signed on the dotted line so she’s coming to fight – I just can’t wait for next Friday so I can have me some burger! My team have watched her, they come up with the gameplan and I work hard to put that plan into practice in the ring.”

Serrano’s clash with Voraberger is a DiBella Entertainment bout in association with Matchroom Boxing USA and is part of a three World title fight bill, topped by Demetrius Andrade’s first defense of his WBO World Middleweight title against Russian Artur Akavov and Irishman TJ Doheny’s maiden defense of his IBF World Super-Bantamweight title.

Long Island favorite and former World ruler Chris Algieri (22-3 8KOs) steps up his pursuit of regaining his World champion status at Super-Lightweight as he faces fellow New Yorker Danny Gonzalez (17-1-1 7KOs), while one of Matchroom Boxing USA’s rising stars tastes his first action in 2019 on the card as Reshat Mati (2-0 1KO) returns to the scene of his last outing in October where the ‘Albanian Bear’ went the four round distance in his second fight.

LIAM SMITH SIGNS PROMOTIONAL DEAL WITH MATCHROOM BOXING

Liam Smith has signed a three-fight promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing.

The former WBO Super-Welterweight World Champion will make his debut under the Matchroom banner at the M&S Bank Arena Liverpool on March 30, live on Sky Sports and DAZN, and will be aiming to become a World Champion once again in 2019.

“I’m delighted to be signing with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing,” said Smith. “I feel like I’m turning pro all over again. This is a new lease of life for me and exactly what I needed. I felt like I was going a little bit stale and under the radar.

“Without being big-headed, I still feel that I’m the best Light-Middleweight in Britain. I had a bad year in 2018 and with the move to Eddie I’m hoping for an active and exciting 2019.

“I can’t wait to get out in front of my home crowd in Liverpool on March 30 – nothing beats it. With Eddie’s deal with DAZN, there’s a lot of opportunities to take on the big names in America – it was the best move for me at this stage of my career and I’m very excited.

“I’ve always had a good relationship with Eddie and I’m happy to be working with him. The Kell Brook fight is a big fight and it’s one that could come into play but I haven’t signed with Matchroom just to fight Brook. I’ve signed with Matchroom to try and become a World Champion again and I believe that Eddie’s the man to take me there.”

“I’m delighted to welcome Liam to the team,” said Eddie Hearn. “Liam is the only Smith brother we haven’t worked with and I feel he has plenty of big fights left in the tank. He has only ever lost at elite level against Canelo and Munguia and has boxed on a huge stage and platform in the US. He will return to Liverpool on March 30 as he sets out to try and regain his World Light-Middleweight title later this year.”

WILSON VS. HOWARD ALL-PHILLY BOUT TOPS MARCH 1 CARD AT PARX CASINO®

Bensalem, PA – Garrett Wilson, a seasoned fighter and one of the last of the old-school Philly fighters, goes against another veteran when he boxes Brian Howard in an 8-round cruiserweight bout in the main event of Xcite Fight Night 3 at Parx Casino on Friday evening, March 1.

The event will mark the first of four Joe Hand’s Xcite Fight Night boxing events in 2019 at Parx Casino®. The seven-bout fight card figures to attract a huge crowd.

Wilson, who lives in South Philadelphia, has fought the best. Twelve of his 34 previous opponents were undefeated at fight time. The combined record of his opponents stands at 397-78-19 but that did not keep him from being rated among the Top 10 cruiserweights in the world at various times during his almost 11-year career.

Known as the “Ultimate Warrior,” Wilson has competed in five different countries, nine different states and 23 cities as a pro.

“I’m an everyday blue-collar worker,” Wilson said, “with the heart of a warrior and the mindset of a champion. Talk is cheap and I got bills to pay.”

He may be one of the nicest fighters outside of the ring, always with a smile on his face, but he channels that energy differently inside the ring with half of his wins (18-15-1 record) coming by knockout.

Wilsons’ biggest wins have come over Omar Sheika, Chuck Mussachio and Andres Taylor. The wins over Sheika and Taylor avenged a loss (Sheika) and a draw (Taylor). Wilson currently holds the Pennsylvania State Cruiserweight Title.

Across town, Brian Howard trains at Fast Lane Boxing Gym in West Philadelphia.

“I’m blessed,” said Howard. “I feel great about my upcoming fight. It’s my first time fighting in Philadelphia and I am thankful for the opportunity to fight such a notable guy; Wilson is a champion.”

Howard (13-2, 10 K0s) is a Georgia native, but now calls Philadelphia his home. A pro since 2010, Howard’s two wins came by knockout over a pair of undefeated fighters: Alex Guerrero in Queens, NY and Shawndell Terell Winters in Elk Grove Village, IL.

First fight is 7:30 pm. Tickets can be purchased from the Hold My Ticket Call Center at 1-877-466-3404 and at www.parxcasino.com/entertainment.
?ABOUT MARCH 1

The March 1 card will consist of seven fights, beginning at 7:30 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. The card is promoted by Joe Hand Promotions. This event is only for adults age 21 and older. Tickets priced at $50, $75 and $100 are on sale at Joe Hand Promotions (215-364-9000). You can also purchase tickets from the Hold My Ticket Call Center at 1-877-466-3404 and at www.parxcasino.com/entertainment.
ABOUT PARX CASINO®

Parx Casino® is owned and operated by Greenwood Racing, Inc. Parx Casino® is conveniently located 20 minutes north of center city Philadelphia, I-95 exit 37 or PA Turnpike exit 351 (westbound), exit 352 (eastbound) onto Street Road in Bensalem. Parx features over 200,000 square feet of gaming; over 3,300 slot machines and 133 live table games; a private poker enclave with over 80 poker tables; live racing & simulcast action; Parxgrill, an upscale signature restaurant; Liberty Bell Gastropub, farm-to-fork inspired menu; Foodies quick service dining; Chickie’s & Pete’s Crab House and Sports Bar; 360 bar and live music venue; Jax sports bar; Circle Bar; Bambu Noodle House; Earl of Sandwich®; Xlounge, ultramodern luxury lounge; the Xcite Center, an over 1,500-seat live entertainment venue and complimentary parking for 5,000 cars. For more information on Parx Casino®, visit www.parxcasino.com.

FORMER HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION RAY MERCER TO BE SPECIAL VIP GUEST FOR ALBERTO ‘EXPLOSIVO’ MACHADO VS. ANDREW ‘EL CHANGO’ CANCIO BOXING EVENT

INDIO, CALIF. (Jan. 9, 2019): Former heavyweight world champion Ray Mercer will be the special VIP guest for the boxing event headlined by the 12-round battle between Alberto “Explosivo” Machado (21-0, 17 KOs) and Andrew “El Chango” Cancio (19-4-2, 14 KOs) for the WBA Super Featherweight World Title. The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN – which is just $9.99 per month after a one-month free trial.

Mercer is a native of Jacksonville, Florida who earned a gold medal at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, South Korea. The following year Mercer began his professional career by fighting an impressive 12 times. Eventually, Mercer earned a world title opportunity and defeated Francesco Damiani for the WBO Heavyweight World Title. Mercer defended his title once against Tommy “The Duke” Morrison but lost the title in a tough fight against Larry “The Easton Assasin” Holmes. Mercer continued participating in fights against the likes of Lennox “The Lion” Lewis, Evander “The Real Deal” Holyfield, Wladimir “Dr. Steelhammer” Klitschko and Shannon “The Cannon” Briggs in a professional career that lasted 20 years.

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

In the night’s co-feature, Rey Vargas (32-0, 22 KOs) will put his WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship on the line against Franklin Manzanilla (18-4, 17 KOs) in a 12-round battle.

Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. (27-1, 14 KOs) of South El Monte, Calif. will return in a 10-round super featherweight battle against Charles Huerta (20-5, 12 KOs) of Paramount, Calif.

Genaro “El Conde” Gamez (8-0, 5 KOs) will battle against Ivan “Striker” Delgado (13-1-2, 6 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight battle between a current Golden Boy prospect and an ex-Golden Boy fighter.

Oscar Duarte (15-0-1, 10 KOs) of Parral, Mexico will participate in a 10-round fight in the lightweight division.

Azat “Crazy A” Hovhannisyan (15-3, 12 KOs) of Los Angeles, Calif. will compete in a 10-round super bantamweight fight.

Ferdinand “Lucky Boy” Kerobyan (11-0, 6 KOs) of North Hollywood, Calif. will return in an eight-round super welterweight battle.

Hometown hero Rommel Caballero (4-0, 3 KOs) of Coachella, Calif. will open the night of action in a six-round super featherweight battle.

Opponents for the undercard fighters will be announced shortly.

Machado vs. Cancio is a 12-round fight for the WBA Super Featherweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions. Vargas vs. Manzanilla is a 12-round battle for the WBC Super Bantamweight World Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Promociones del Pueblo. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” and Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle.” The event will take place Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019 at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Indio, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for the event are on sale and are priced at $35, $45 and $55. Tickets will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Media interested in attending Golden Boy Boxing: Machado vs. Cancio must request credentials by emailing clavoie@fantasysprings.net by 5:00 p.m. PT on Friday, Feb. 1.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying
and pasting the link http://bit.ly/February9DAZN into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy Promotions for any photo and/or video usage.

SAM MAXWELL: “I AM TEN TIMES A BETTER BOXER THAN OHARA DAVIES”

SAM MAXWELL IS now into double digits as a professional super lightweight and believes he has served his time on the learning curve.

The Liverpool lad, who has been a regular feature on big arena undercards, insists he is ready to step into the spotlight and has reached the point in time when a little bit of name-dropping doesn’t do any harm, but one name in particular appeals more than most.

“I am ready for a step up, definitely,” reasoned Sam, who reached 10-0 at the Manchester Arena in December. “I know they can see something in me because Frank has put me on all these amazing shows, so I know they believe in me, but I think it is about time I get pushed on so I can show them what I am really all about.

“I want to show my level to the public as well.

“There are loads at my weight that would be brilliant fights and I would come out on top. If I was offered Ohara Davies I would take that fight and I’d be confident of winning.

“I am ten times a better boxer than him, so I’d just have to be switched on and watch out for his right hand – which he didn’t throw against Catterall!

“Jack nullified it I think and he was terrified to throw it. It was a weird one, Jack was terrified of it and he was terrified to throw it.

“Ohara is a big name as well and I am ready to move to his level,” added Sam who, age-wise, is the senior citizen of the Brit pack at 140lbs.

“They are younger lads than me, but I feel like a young 30-year-old to be honest because I haven’t had a tough career with any hard fights. I still feel fresh and young and my training in Scotland with Danny (Vaughn) has a given me a new lease of life.

“I feel I am the best boxer I have ever been and I’ve made massive improvements.”

Tickets for Bowen v Clark on Feb 23 at the Morningside Arena, featuring Sam Maxwell, are available from £40 are on sale NOW via Eventbrite

Danny Gonzalez ready for Chris Algieri Showdown

Queens, N.Y. “On January 18th, Star Boxing’s Danny “El Gallo” Gonzalez (17-1-1 7KO) of Woodhaven, NY; looks to seize the opportunity of making a splash in the hot Super-Lightweight division by taking on former world champion Chris Algieri (22-3 8KO). As part of a stellar card put forth by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Promotions shown exclusively on DAZN, and taking place in the famed Hulu Theatre at Madison Square Garden; this cross-town rivalry is not just about title contention but bragging rights.

The up and coming Puerto Rican prospect Danny Gonzalez, is aiming to upset the apple cart in taking out former sparring partner Chris Algieri; who is in the comeback stage of his career at the age of 34. For the fighter known as “El Gallo”, the 28-year-old sees the chance to prove his supporters right and doubters wrong “A win over Algieri will most definitely put me in the spotlight, and hopefully turn me from a prospect to a contender while showing my friends and family how dedicated i’ve been to the sport.” Promoter Joe DeGuardia is known for turning local talents from ticket sellers to title holders, and pitting his two brightest stars against each other on such a big stage elevates the status of two fighters who know how to please a crowd.

While the focus on this matchup is whether or not Chris Algieri can return to former glory and higher pay days, Danny Gonzalez has dreamed of the chance to fight for a title since he first started training under the tutelage of head coach Moises Roman Jr. as an overweight teen looking to get in to shape over 10 years ago. Overlooked by general observers and his opponent alike, motivation is at an all-time high “I’m self-motivated, I only care about the opinions of my team… I believe in myself, I haven’t shown my full potential yet in the ring. I guarantee the best version of myself will show up January 18th, and I will shock the world.”

When asked on changes made for this camp Gonzalez had this to say: “The training is aggressive and focused like always but for this camp we brought in Felipe Gomez to sharpen up my movement and cutting off the ring, while focusing on my defense.” Taking place at 140lbs over 10 rounds, fitness is paramount when facing an opponent known to use up the whole ring, but a different approach was taken since the young fighter’s sole loss “I’m having fun and enjoying the training…I’m more open minded, setting a strategy for my opponent and not overworking myself while in camp.” Both men are known for their high levels of physical fitness as well as high punch outputs through their contrasting styles.

Having shared camps together and forming a friendship, “El Gallo” plans on putting their personal relationship on hold in pursuit of his goals; “The fans can expect an extremely entertaining fight from start to finish, I’m coming to bring an all-out war as I see Chris as an obstacle in my way. I’m coming to break him down and show him he can’t compete with a hungrier, younger Rooster like me. He is no longer my idol, now he’s my rival and i will not be denied victory.” Crossroad fights tend to bring out the best in fighters, Danny Gonzalez wants to raise his status and leapfrog Chris Algieri in the rankings to place him as a front runner for a title shot, opportunity is knocking at his door.”