Las Vegas – UFC^® will hold its final event of 2023 in the Fight Capital of the World, headlined by a highly anticipated welterweight championship bout that will see Leon Edwards defend against No. 2 ranked contender Colby Covington. Also, newly crowned flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja makes his first title defense when he rematches No. 4 ranked contender Brandon Royval.

UFC^® 296: EDWARDS vs. COVINGTON takes place Saturday, Dec. 16 at T-Mobile Arena with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on ESPN+ PPV. The prelims will be available on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The early prelims will kick off at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass with the action also continuing on ESPN2 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

UFC^® 296: EDWARDS vs. COVINGTON tickets will go on sale Friday, Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. PT and are available for purchase at axs.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m. PT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Oct. 19 starting at 10 a.m. PT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

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

Edwards (21-3 1NC, fighting out of Birmingham, England) looks to continue his momentum following winning his trilogy bout against former titleholder Kamaru Usman. Currently riding a 12-fight unbeaten streak, he has also earned spectacular victories over Nate Diaz, Rafael Dos Anjos and Gunnar Nelson. Edwards now intends to further cement himself as the top welterweight on the planet.

Former interim welterweight champion Covington (17-3, fighting out of Miami, Fla.) returns to action following his dominant win against heated rival Jorge Masvidal. An NCAA Division I All-American, he has also delivered notable victories over Tyron Woodley, Robbie Lawler and Rafael Dos Anjos. Covington now has his sights set on stopping Edwards in emphatic fashion.

Pantoja (26-5, fighting out of Arraial Do Cabo, Brazil) is coming off his Fight of the Year contender victory over Brandon Moreno to capture the flyweight belt. A talented Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, he also holds wins against Alex Perez, Manel Kape and Wilson Reis. Pantoja now hopes to finish Royval for a second time to continue his run atop the 125-pound ladder.

Royval (15-6, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.) intends to steal the show with another highlight-reel finish. Among the most exciting competitors in the flyweight division, he has earned memorable victories over Matheus Nicolau, Matt Schnell and Kai Kara-France. Royval now plans to even the score with Pantoja and achieve his dream of becoming UFC champion.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Undefeated No. 6 ranked welterweight contender Shavkat Rakhmonov (17-0, fighting out of Kokshetau, Kazakhstan) battles former title challenger and No. 7 Stephen Thompson (17-6-1, fighting out of Simpsonville, S.C.)
• Former interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson (26-9, fighting out of Orange County, Calif.) collides with Paddy Pimblett (20-3, fighting out of Liverpool, England) in a highly anticipated matchup
• No. 10 ranked welterweight contender Vicente Luque (22-9-1, fighting out of Brasília, Brazil) locks horns with unbeaten No. 11 Ian Machado Garry (13-0, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland by way of Belo Horizonte, Brazil)
• No. 6 ranked contender Josh Emmett (18-4, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) meets No. 8 Giga Chikadze (15-3, fighting out of Tbilisi, Georgia) in an exciting featherweight bout
• No. 15 ranked Alonzo Menifield (14-3-1, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) faces No. 15 Dustin Jacoby (19-7-1, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.) in a clash of light heavyweight contenders
• Former UFC bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt (13-5, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) faces Brian Kelleher (24-14, fighting out of Selden, N.Y.) in a bout guaranteed to deliver fireworks
• Streakingheavyweight Martin Buday (13-1, fighting out of Trnava, Slovakia) takes on undefeated Dana White’s Contender Series signee Shamil Gaziev (11-0, fighting out of Kingdom of Bahrain)
• No. 5 ranked women’s bantamweight contender Irene Aldana (14-7, fighting out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico) returns against No. 9 Karol Rosa (17-5, fighting out of Niteroi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
• Randy Brown (17-5, fighting out of Queens, N.Y. by way of Spanish Town, Jamaica) faces Muslim Salikhov (19-4, fighting out of Buynaksk, Dagestan, Russia) in an all-action welterweight tilt
• No. 13 ranked flyweight contender Tagir Ulanbekov (15-2, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) looks to defend his spot in the rankings against Cody Durden (16-4-1, fighting out of Covington, Ga.)
• No. 14 ranked women’s flyweight contender Casey O’Neill (9-1, fighting out of Gold Coast, Australia) squares off with Ariane Lipski (16-8, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil)

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

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 243 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports, and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About T-Mobile Arena

T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city’s first professional sports team, as well as UFC’s exclusive Las Vegas arena destination. The venue, named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine’s 2018 Arena Power List as well as the “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar Magazine in 2016, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Industry-leading architect Populous designed T-Mobile Arena to meet the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards for LEED® Gold Certification. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit T-MobileArena.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About ESPN+ 

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus/

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading multiplatform sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, the leading sports app, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, leading social and digital platforms, ESPN.com, ESPN Audio, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

LAS VEGAS (Oct. 18, 2023) — Now this is a story all about how “The Fresh Prince of Monaco” is coming to Las Vegas.

Undefeated junior welterweight prospect Hugo Micallef, the only professional boxer from the Principality of Monaco, will make his U.S. debut against Austria’s Sergio Odabai in a six-rounder Saturday, Nov. 16 at T-Mobile Arena. Micallef-Odabai will be part of the ESPN+-streamed undercard broadcast.

The ESPN-televised doubleheader (10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT) is headlined by the vacant WBC lightweight world title showdown between Shakur Stevenson and Edwin De Los Santos and the WBO junior lightweight world title battle between reigning champion Emanuel Navarrete and Brazilian Olympic gold medalist Robson Conceição. 

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

The 25-year-old Micallef (8-0, 1 KO) signed with Top Rank in 2021 and stands out as one of his nation’s most popular homegrown athletes. He enjoys the support of numerous Monégasque luminaries, including driving sensation Charles Leclerc, who will compete in Las Vegas’ big race on November 18. Since entering the paid ranks, Micallef has fought in five different counties: France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and his native land. Odabai (6-1-1, 3 KOs), from Vienna, Austria, is unbeaten in three bouts since the lone loss on his ledger.

Micallef said, “Ever since I turned pro, it has been a dream of mine to fight in Las Vegas and to carry the flag of Monaco proudly. I can’t wait to fight during the big race week and on Shakur Stevenson’s undercard. I am training hard to make a huge statement.”

DETROIT – October 18, 2023 – A rising super lightweight with world championship potential in the Salita Promotions’ stable, Joshua Pagan will return to action this Saturday, October 21 against veteran Braulio Rodriguez at the Motor City Casino in Detroit. Pagan had originally been scheduled to face Rodriguez on September 8, before he was forced to withdraw due to an illness.

“I’m feeling amazing going into this fight on Saturday,” said Pagan. “We were able to really leave no stone unturned in training camp and I know it’s definitely gonna show when the bell rings.”

The 23-year-old Pagan (8-0, 4 KOs) will step into the ring for a six-round matchup against the Dominican Republic’s Rodriguez (20-7, 17 KOs) as he too looks for his fifth victory of 2023. The Grand Rapids-native followed up an impressive triumph over the previously unbeaten Ronnell Burnett in June by stopping Gabriel Smith in the first round in July.

Pagan won the 2021 U.S. Amateur Welterweight National Championship with a unanimous decision over Keon Davis. He followed that up by turning pro in January 2022 and earning four victories that year as he looks to take the leap from prospect to contender.

“Joshua Pagan is the best American prospect at 140 pounds,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “He had an incredible amateur career and with consistent activity as a pro, he’s building himself up into a true contender. I believe strongly that he will be knocking on the door of a world title sooner than people think.”

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ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

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

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action. 

HANOVER, MD (OCTOBER 17, 2023) — Jaqeem Hutcherson won the UBF All Americas and UBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight Titles in the main event of a massive 14-bout card at The Hall! at Live Casino Hotel Maryland.

The card was promoted by Jeter Promotions,

Chambers dropped Hutcherson in round one and then once again in round seven. Hutcherson was credited with two knockdowns in round four, with the second knockdown being controversial as it appeared that Chambers tripped. That was the difference. The scores were 76-72, 76-73 and 74-74. Those official scores were corrected Sunday after wrong scores were announced fight night,

Hutcherson is 10-1-1. Chambers is 9-2-1.

Former top-five rated middleweight Immanuwel Aleem made a successful Jeter Promotions debut with a second-round stoppage over Antonio Luis Hernandez in a scheduled six-round bout.

Aleem dropped Hernandez with a perfect liver shot and the fight was stopped at 2:26 for Aleem who is now 19-3-2 with 12 knockouts. Hernandez is 7-17-2.

Ahmad Muhammad Jones remained undefeated with a third-round stoppage over Dionte Burts in a scheduled six-round super lightweight bout.

Jones dropped Burts twice.

The time was 1:41 for Jones who is now 6-0 with four knockouts. Burts is 4-2-1.

Eric Hernandez won a four-round unanimous decision over Markus Bowes in a super middleweight bout.

Scores were 39-36 and 38-36 twice for Hernandez who is now 10-1. Bowes is 2-3.

Ezri Turner won a four-round super middleweight bout with a unanimous decision over Joshua Nicholas Lamine Diop.

Scores were 39-37 twice and 38-37 for Turner who is 2-0. Diop was making his pro debut.

Joseph Veazey stopped Steven Brabson at 2:35 of the first round of their six-round super lightweight bout.

Veazey is now 10-0 with seven knockouts. Brabson is 3-8.

Antonio Dunton-El stopped Marquel Johns at 20 seconds of round three of their four round super featherweight bout.

Dunton-El is 4-2-2 with two knockouts. Johns is now 7-3-2.

Jeffrey Yu stopped Darus Somieari at 2:20 of three of their four-round super featherweight fight.

Yu is 3-0 with three knockouts. Somieari is 0-3.

Darel Harris scored a shocking upset by winning a six-round unanimous decision over Renaldo Gaines in an action-packed super featherweight bout.

Harris won by scores of 59-54, 58-55 and 59-53 and is now 10-22-2. Gaines is 10-3-1.

Ervin Fuller III remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over Vit Y in a super featherweight bout.

Fuller won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-53 and is now 5-0. Y is 7-6-1.

Micah Terrill won a four-round unanimous decision over Dah-Quan Erdington in a light heavyweight bout.

Terrill won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 2-0. Erdington was making his pro debut.

Josiyah Giles stopped DeAndre Menser at 2:45 of round of their four-round welterweight bout.

Giles is 4-0 with two knockouts. Menser is 1-2.

Tabish Faqiri needed just 1:43 to win his pro debut as he stopped Antwion McCollough in a four-round lightweight bout.

Faqiri is 1-0 with one knockout. McCollough is 0-3.

Vitalii Gubkin stopped Derrick Vann at 2:02 of round five of their six-round middleweight bout.

Gubkin is now 9-4-1 with six knockouts. Vann is 4-9.

Jeter Promotions will be back at The Hall! at Live Casino and Hotel Maryland on February 17th, 2024.

Long Island, NY (October 18. 2023) – Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights” 45 is right around the corner, and the near sold-out venue tells you all you need to know about the excitement surrounding fight night. Pittsburgh’s, Matt Conway was scheduled to fight Bellport, Long Island fan favorite, ALEX “EL TORO” VARGAS (13-0 5KO’s) in the main event, but unfortunately, Conway was forced to pull out of the fight due to a fractured elbow suffered in training. Now, Puerto Rican born, Orlando Florida based, JULIO “EL PANTERA” ROSA has stepped up to the challenge.

Star Boxing is pleased to announce the new Vargas-Rosa super lightweight main event will be for the vacant WBA Continental USA Championship, as both Vargas and Rosa will bid for the first title in their professional careers – an opportunity that is not lost on either man.

“I’m fortunate to still be fighting for my first title which was the main goal since the beginning,” said Alex Vargas. “Much respect to Rosa for stepping in and taking this opportunity. Nothing changed for me as I stayed working hard. It’s still the same mission. Win and become the new WBA Continental Champion.”

In what will be his 10th appearance at The Paramount, Suffolk County Police Officer, Alex Vargas will look to secure the biggest win of his career, earning his first regional title and pushing himself up the super lightweight rankings. Across from Vargas is a competitor in Julio Rosa (8-3 4KO’s) who has won four of his last five bouts and is coming off a questionable majority decision, with a hunger to return to Orlando with the WBA title in hand. This 8 round super lightweight clash tops what is scheduled to be a thrilling night of fights.

Julio Rosa had this to say about the main event title fight, “After 8 years of boxing between Amateur and professional, behind a dream of being a world champion, today I feel proud and blessed by God. I want to thank Joe DeGuardia & Star Boxing as they have opened the door for me for the first shot to fight for a championship. I am extremely grateful to the promotion and to God because I feel that my dream of becoming a world champion is beginning to take place and what better way to start than this October 28th in New York representing Bayamon, Puerto Rico, a big boxing island who is hungry for triumph. I will take advantage of the moment to the fullest putting everything on the line to fulfill my dream of one day being world champion in the 140 pound division. God bless those who help me and who opened the doors for this great opportunity. I won’t waste it.”

Vargas-Rosa is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing. The six fight card features local talent that includes the co-main event as WENDY “HAITIAN FIRE” TOUSSAINT (14-2 6KO’s) takes on JERMONE “QUADRUPLE J” JONES JR. (7-1 6KO’S) of Phoenix, AZ in an 8-round super welterweight bout. On the undercard EMMANUEL ETIENNE of Uniondale, NY (4-1 2KO’s) will go toe to toe in a grudge rematch with former UFC fighter, turned professional boxer, OLUWALE “HOLY WAR ANGEL” BAMGBOSE (Bronx, NY 0-1) over 4 rounds at cruiserweight; LOUIS “IL MARTELLO” MAIETTA (Bronx, NY, 3-3) looks to continue his win streak when he fights Glen Cove, NY’s FRANKIE “MAGIC” MANACO (pro debut). Also included on the undercard in a 4-round super featherweight bout is Mexican warrior, ERICK “EL CANETE” PEREZ (1-0 1KO) retuning to The Paramount against pro debut KESLAIRE EXAVIER of Las Vegas, NV, and opening the action in a 4 round super featherweight bout will be DOM BREEN (Staten Island, NY 0-2) against JOSEPH ELZEY (Bronx, NY, pro debut).

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY (October 18, 2023) –On Friday, December 29th, an exciting boxing series will be launched at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey as Brick City Friday Night Fights will present an evening filled with the best “the sweet science” has to offer. GH3 Promotions and Prudential Center have partnered to launch a multi event boxing series slated to continue in 2024.

Brick City Friday Night Fights is proudly partnering with the Greater Newark Convention & Visitor’s Bureau and Caribe Royale Orlando, and will feature world ranked fighters, from New Jersey and the rest of the world, in competitive matchups throughout the entire card.

Tickets are priced at $306, $231, $121, and $66, go on sale TODAY, October 18, and can be purchased at www.Ticketmaster.com.

Scheduled to appear in an eight-round bout will be Newark’s own Michael Anderson. Anderson (23-3-1, 17 KOs) has wins over Dashon Johnson (11-2-3), DeMarcus Rogers (14-3-1) and a third-round stoppage over Marklin Bailey.

Seeing action in a ten-round bout will be former world title challenger and current WBA number-three ranked middleweight Thomas “Cornflake” LaManna.

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

Julian Rodriguez (22-1, 14 KOs) of Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey will take part in an eight-round super lightweight bout. Rodriguez (22-1, 14 KOs) has quality victories over Neyeine Muang (1-0-2), Angel Figueroa (3-0-2), King Daluz (12-2), Dario Ferman (14-2) and Anthony Laureano (13-0). Rodriguez is coming off a unanimous decision over Kashon Hutchinson on March 10.

Fighting in eight-round bouts will be welterweight Paul Kroll (10-0-2, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia as well as popular Albanian heavyweight Kristian Prenga (14-1, 14 KOs)

Appearing in six-round bouts will be junior middleweight Dwyke Flemmings Jr. (4-0, 4 KOs) of Paterson, New Jersey; flyweight Anthony Johns (6-1, 5 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey; heavyweight Norman Neely (14-1, 9 KOs) of Paterson, New Jersey; welterweight Michael Lee (10-2, 5 KOs) of Orange, New Jersey; super lightweight Kasir Goldston (5-0-1, 2 KOs) of Albany, New York.

Fighting in four-round bouts will be featherweight Malik Nelson (4-0, 3 KOs) of Avenel, New Jersey; junior middleweight John Vallejo (4-0, 2 KOs) of New York, junior welterweight Elijah Flores (6-0, 2 KOs) from Redlands, CA via Bronx, NY, and super middleweight Keon Ivery (2-2, 1 KO) of Lodi, New Jersey.

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

About Prudential Center

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

About Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE):

Recognized as one of the most innovative and entrepreneurial companies in the industry today, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), is a leading sports and entertainment company, with a focus on inspiring possibilities in people and enhancing the communities where we live, work, play and win. Founded by Josh Harris and David Blitzer, HBSE’s global portfolio has grown to include premier sports franchises, brands, venues, and investment platforms, centered around marquee assets, the Philadelphia 76ers, the New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center.

LONDON, ENGLAND – (October 18th, 2023) – The highly-anticipated showdown between Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez will be rescheduled to a new date at The O2 in London. 

The bout between the #1 and #2 ranked light-heavyweights had been due to take place this Saturday but is now being postponed due to an injury suffered by Azeez in his final training session. 

A date for the rescheduled world title final eliminator will be announced shortly. All tickets for this Saturday’s event at The O2 will remain valid for the new date. Once announced, any customers unable to attend the new date will be able to obtain a full refund.

This Saturday’s chief support bout and undercard bouts will now relocate to the iconic York Hall in London, headlined by Mikael Lawal defending his British Cruiserweight Championship against bitter rival Isaac Chamberlain in one of the most keenly-anticipated domestic clashes of the year.

The Commonwealth Super Welterweight Championship is also on the line when Louis Greene defends his title against Sam Gilley in another highly-anticipated 50/50 domestic clash which will also send the winner forward for a shot at the British title.

The card will also feature Olympic bronze medallist Karriss Artingstall against former world title challenger ‘Vicious’ Vanessa Bradford as she takes an important step in her professional career, and top young prospect Michael Hennessy Jr taking on fan favourite Joe Laws in what will be a very entertaining fight. 

“We’re still bitterly disappointed about having to postpone the main event due to the injury sustained by Dan Azeez,” said BOXXER founder and CEO Ben Shalom. “It’s clear from the widespread upset and frustration, just how big of a fight this is. We’ve spoken to both teams and everyone is committed to rescheduling the world title final eliminator. We’re working on announcing a new date at The O2 as soon as possible. 

“For the remaining fights, the easiest option would have been to cancel the whole card, but that wouldn’t have been fair to the fighters or to the fans hoping to see them. I’m extremely proud of our team’s hard work in ensuring these fights get to go ahead. Not only can we look forward to a rescheduled Joshua Buatsi vs Dan Azeez at the O2 in the near future, but also four incredible fights live on Sky Sports on Saturday night in what will be a hugely atmospheric York Hall.” 

Buatsi vs Azeez ticket holders who wish to attend Saturday’s event at York Hall on will be given exclusive access to a priority window ahead of the general sale. This will be between 4pm today and 4pm tomorrow. You will be emailed a direct link to purchase your tickets. 

Tickets will be available for general sale from 4pm on Thursday October 19th at BOXXER.com 

For breaking news and further information, please visit BOXXER.com and follow the official BOXXER social media channels.

Saturday October 21st event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Village Hotels and Integritas Property Group

Chelmsford, England – 18 October 2023 – Former World title challenger Lucy Wildheart makes her long awaited return to the ring and it’s straight back into World title action when she challenges the WBC Interim World Featherweight Champion Skye Nicolson.

Wildheart (10-2, 4 KO’s) will face unbeaten Australian star Nicolson (8-0) on the undercard of Matchroom Boxing’s blockbuster show on Saturday 25th November at the 3Arena in Dublin, headlined by the rematch between Katie Taylor and Chantelle Cameron.

The 30-year-old from Växjö, Sweden, now based out of Chelmsford, Essex, is World rated #3 by the WBC and has been targeting a showdown with the newly crowed Champion Nicholson, who won the title by beating Sabrina Perez on points in Tijuana, Mexico, last month.

In April this year Wildheart accepted without hesitation a late minute call to face the American star Mikael Mayer for the Vacant WBC Interim World Lightweight Championship when Mayers’s original opponent Christina Linardatou was not cleared by the BBBofC.

At just 48 hours notice at the Copper Box Arena in London and two weight divisions above her natural featherweight class, Wildheart put on a valiant performance and extended the bigger and heavier punching Mayer the full ten round distance to only lose on the judges scorecards.

Trained by Samm Mullins at Churchill’s Gym in London, Wildheart is thrilled with her opportunity.  She said, “This is the moment I have waited patiently for all of my career, to be challenging for the world title in my weight division.”

“Thank you to Matchroom for the opportunity to fight on a major promotion and surrounded by other ladies’ who have already made history and continue to do so,”

“The atmosphere on the night is going to be surreal and I’m grateful to be part of this huge night to further grow women’s boxing even more.”

Wildheart’s manager Richard Maynard, CEO of Strike Sports Management, said, “Lucy has craved a fight with Skye for a very long time and I’m delighted to have concluded the deal swiftly with Matchroom to get her this opportunity.”

“It’s a magnificent stage for Lucy to showcase herself on a huge Matchroom show in Dublin, live on DAZN and on one of the biggest shows of the year on the Taylor-Cameron 2 card.”

“Skye is a quality fighter and we’re not underestimating her, it’s all there for Lucy to take she has the experience.”

ONE OF THE most highly-anticipated fights of the year, the British heavyweight title showdown between Fabio Wardley and David Adeleye, takes place in Riyadh on October 28 on the undercard of the Battle of the Baddest event, featuring Tyson Fury against MMA king Francis Ngannou, live on TNT Sports Box Office in the UK & Ireland.

Today, in London, the chief support participants came together in front of the media ahead of departure for Saudi Arabia and below are a selection of key quotes from the top-table section of proceedings.

Frank Warren: “I think this is a fabulous fight and it is the first time I have met Fabio, other than speaking to him briefly on the telephone. This is what it is all about, undefeated heavyweights, two rising stars of boxing in a main support bout to a unique event, which will be broadcast all over the world. Whoever wins this fight is going to establish himself around the world, with lots of eyeballs watching. This is a huge opportunity and you can just feel the buzz about this and the event. This fight is going to be special. We had that unfortunate incident last time and hopefully that has been dealt with and is done. I hope we can put that behind us now and focus on the fight. Make no bones about it, this fight will be exciting.”

David Adeleye: “I learned nothing about him last time because I know what sort of man he is anyway, so it didn’t really show me much. He is not the same as me, he ain’t built from the same cloth. I kind of knew that already. We haven’t got to talk about the situation, but I match energy. I don’t go in there with no malice. I am always smiling and always good, I just match energy. I am pretty good at doing it. You walked towards me and got dealt with. It was jittery, I just pushed you back. When I am arguing with team members I am not going to let someone of 17 stone walk towards me. I don’t get nervous, I don’t know what it is, it is hard to explain, but nerves ain’t it. Someone like Fabio Wardley could never bring on those sort of nerve in me. What does he do for me to be nervous?”

“I am getting paid to beat him up, it is easy money. Eddie Hearn doesn’t put his money on you, what are you talking about?”

Fabio Wardley: “I don’t know if I particularly learned anything, nothing that I hadn’t seen already, in other situations and other circumstances, that he is a bit jittery. When the cameras are on, it is a big stage and a big event, people’s personality shows through. Nervous, jittery and on edge, twitchy – all things we had assessed already. It was nothing new, but funny to see up close, that is all. All I did was turn and look at you and you jittered. Do you push everyone who walks towards you and approaches you? So it is just me you are jittery around then? I’ve had people I’ve had issues with walk towards me and I’m not on edge or nervous, I’m cool. I walked to you to calm things down. We had met before and that is why I came over to say there was no need for this. Play your role, we are here to be professionals at the end of the day. I am used to having a mature interaction with someone where you can walk over. There was no need for that.”

“I don’t think it is easy money. I am getting paid to be whatever because Frank realises that you are not what they thought you were, you are not what he thought you was, so he has brought me over to do a job, get rid of you. I think Frank is betting his money on me.”

“I am a free guy, I can go wherever I want.”

NEW YORK (October 17, 2023) -Two of Split-T Management’s young prospects were impressive in scoring knockouts over the weekend.

Saturday night in Rosenberg, Texas, Giovanni Marquez remained undefeated with a second-round stoppage over Donte Strayhorn in a scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout.

In round two, Marquez dropped Strayhorn with two right uppercuts. Seconds later, it was a vicious four punch combination that was punctuated by a left hook that put Strayhorn on the deck. Marquez ended things by landing seven unanswered punches that finished the fight at 2:47.

Marquez, 141.3 lbs of Houston, TX is 7-0 with five knockouts. Strayhorn, 140.2 lbs of Dallas, TX is 12-5-1.

Sunday in Milwaukee, junior lightweight Javier Zamarron stopped veteran Rodolfo Hernandez Montoya in the opening round of their six-round bout.

Zamarron was impressive in finishing Montoya off at 1:58 of the opening frame.

Zamarron was fighting in front of the home folks as the Sheboygan, Wisconsin native raised his mark to 6-0 with four knockouts. Montoya of Mexico City is 30-15-1.

LOS ANGELES (October 17, 2023) – Undefeated super middleweight prospect Darius “DFG” Fulghum (8-0, 8 KOs) has a perfect 8-for-8 professional career record, stopping each of his eight opponents to date, and he was recently rewarded for his efforts by signing a promotional contract offered by Golden Boy Promotions.

In his most recent fight, his sixth since he started working with 3 Point Management (3PM) this past April, Fulghum knocked out veteran Mexican Alan Campa (18-8, 12 KOs) with a lethal left hook to the liver at the end of the opening round of their October 7^th fight in Las Vegas on DAZN. Campa has become a gatekeeper of the super middleweight division having fought two-time world title challenger Jesse Hart, Sergiy Dereyanchenko, Erik Bazinyan and Junior Younan, among the more notables.

The 27-year-old Fulgham, who fights out of Houston, extended his KO streak to eight, but he never goes into a fight looking for a knockout.

“No,” he explained, “I don’t go into a fight looking for a knockout. My style is to break down my opponent. There are expectations from others for me to knockout my opponent. I can’t believe all the hype and rely on my power. My style is to breakdown my opponent in every fight; if the knockout comes, it comes. I don’t think I’m a devastating puncher, but I am extremely skilled.

“I definitely have power, but some guys are more durable than others. I’ve been in with heavy guys (coming down from light heavyweight). I still don’t want to get hit, which will help me later in my career. I haven’t suffered any wear and tear.”

Fulghum’s left hook is a punch he and his trainers have worked hard at developing. It paralyzed Campa, whose face showed how much that one punch hurt him, as he went down to his knees in obvious pain.

“We’ve really practiced that punch to exactly where the right place is,” Fulghum said. “This shot had nothing to do with power, it was about placing it on the liver. I caught him with it while he was throwing a punch. Not that it had that much power, but I felt it in my knuckles. I placed it where it paralyzed him. That shot hurt, you can’t fake it.”

Fulghum is excited to be signed by one of the premier boxing promoters in the world, Golden Boy Promotions, and grateful for the managerial work done by 3 PM.

“I’m extremely excited to be with Golden Boy,” Fulghum commented. “Oscar (de la Hoya) can push me to new heights. He can get me in big fights. Golden Boy has pushed me out there (on DAZN streams) and I’m relaxed fighting in front of people.

“I do have to thank 3 PM. They really saved my career. They’ve done an excellent job and are the most professional people I’ve ever worked with.”

3 PM put Fulghum, who had only fought three times  in more than two years prior to him starting to work with 3 PM, on the fast track and he has excelled, fighting five times this year and displaying improvement in each fight. His last fight was only three weeks after his previous match.

“Fighters fight,” Darius responded to fighting at such an accelerated pace. “This is my job, my career. I have my health, so there’s no reason not to fight (when there’s an offer). I still need to get more experienced to climb the ratings. Why not fight? I’d like one more fight before the end of this year.”

Fulghum’s last two fights were scheduled eight-rounders, but combined they only lasted less than three combined. A 10-round fight is right there for the fast-rising super middleweight from Texas. What’s next?

“I’m not sure,” he concluded. “It depends on the opportunity and whether it’s an eight of ten. My style is built for longer fights. I just need to keep fighting. I’ll take what I can get. Nothing is planned but I want a (scheduled) 10-round fight soon and then fight for a regional belt.”

A licensed nurse in Texas with a degree from Prairie View A & M University, Fulghum was a decorated amateur boxer, ranked No. 1 in the USA as a heavyweight, despite fighting as a super middleweight as a pro. He captured top honors at the 2018 National Golden Gloves Tournament and 2020 U.S. Olympic Team Trials.

Fulghum is working with 3 Point Management (3 PM), a Company based in Los Angeles that has a growing stable of gifted boxers including former world super middleweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (45-1, 30 KOs), NABA Super Flyweight Champion John “Scrappy” Ramirez (12-0, 8 KOs), WBA Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Champion Kareem Hackett (12-0, 6 KOs), super middleweight Cem “Champ” Kilic (17-1, 11 KOs), and heavyweight Zach Spiller (3-0, 2 KOs).

There’s a new sheriff in the super middleweight division and his name is Darius “DFG” Fulghum.

INFORMATION:

Instagram/X (Twitter)/Linkedin: @DariusFulghum

QUEBEC CITY, Canada (Oct. 17, 2023) – Super middleweight destroyer Christian Mbilli will defend his WBC Continental Americas and WBA International super middleweight titles against Australian contender Rohan Murdock on Saturday, Jan. 13, at Videotron Centre in Quebec City, Canada. Mbilli-Murdock will serve as the co-feature to Artur Beterbiev’s WBO/WBC/IBF light heavyweight world title defense against former world champion Callum Smith. 

Promoted by Eye of the Tiger and Top Rank, in association with Matchroom Boxing, Beterbiev-Smith and Mbilli-Murdock will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. PT/7 p.m. PT.

Images of Mbilli’s most recent performances against Nadjib Mohammedi, Carlos Gongora and Demond Nicholson have circulated around the world, positioning him as the #1 contender in the WBC, #2 in the WBA, and #3 in the IBF. Although these performances should open more doors for him in the super middleweight division, Mbilli (25-0, 21 KOs) faces the congestion created by undisputed world champion Canelo Alvarez. 

Mbilli said, “Rohan Murdock is a quality opponent with a completely different style from my recent opponents. It will also be an opportunity to gain new fans before my crowning as a world champion. I look forward to starting training camp and can’t wait to be in Quebec on January 13 to wow the crowd!”

Murdock (27-2, 19 KOs) has won three straight bouts since a TKO defeat to Zach Parker, most recently edging Isaac Hardman by split decision in March to win the IBF Australasian super middleweight belt. 

Murdock said, “I am very excited about this opportunity and look forward to the challenge. I have been in enemy territory before and learned my lessons. I know what it takes to win at this level, and on January 13, I will emerge victorious.”Additional undercard bouts will be announced in the coming weeks. Tickets are on sale now via www.ticketmaster.ca.

The undefeated all-British clash between #1 and #2 world ranked light heavyweights Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez has been postponed after Azeez suffered an injury in his final training session.

The friends turned rivals were set to meet this Saturday October 21 in a hugely anticipated bout at The O2 with London bragging rights and a shot at world honours on the line.

Doctors have ruled Azeez unable to compete due to a back injury. Further details on Saturday’s event, including ticket information, and a revised date for Buatsi-Azeez will be communicated shortly. All tickets will automatically remain valid for the rescheduled main event and a full refund will be made available for anyone not able to attend.

“I’m devastated for this to happen on fight week,” said Azeez.  “It still hasn’t sunk in. I’ve never had to withdraw from a fight in my career before. I want to apologise to all the fans, especially those travelling to the fight. I am also extremely sorry to my opponent Joshua Buatsi, to my promoter and to everyone involved who has worked so hard on this date. I hope this fight can be rescheduled as soon as possible.”

BOXXER founder and CEO Ben Shalom said, “This is a big shock but everyone at BOXXER is working very hard to ensure we provide clarity for all fighters, teams and most importantly the fans as soon as we can.

“I know that Dan would do anything to be in the ring on Saturday night and for this to happen at this stage is devastating. This is a huge fight for British Boxing, but the health and safety of our fighters must come first. My heart goes out to Dan and Joshua, who have both completed tough camps, and to the fans, with more than 10,000 having made arrangements to come on Saturday. 

“We will provide an update on the rest of the card and communicate a revised date for Buatsi-Azeez as soon as possible.”

QUINCY, Mass. (October 16, 2023) – Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) has announced its return to Worcester (MA), closing out 2023 with arguably its best top-to-bottom card ever, “Pandemonium at the Palladium 2”, on Friday night, December 9^th at The Palladium.

GCP has partnered with Project New Hope, a Worcester-based charity that supports veterans and their families. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to Project New Hope, which provides basic needs, retreats providing healing opportunities, and its assistance program helps to “connect the dots” for those struggling to navigate current government systems.

Undefeated Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (12-0, 7 KOs) and unbeaten Kenny “Lionheart” Larson (7-0-1, 5 KOs) will throw down in the 10-round main event for the vacant Junior North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Welterweight Championship. Whitley, of Holyoke (MA), is the reigning Massachusetts and USBF Atlantic Welterweight Champion, while Larson, of Salem (MA), represents the toughest test of Whitley’s young career.

Undefeated IBA Americas Super Middleweight Champion Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (9-0, 7 KOs) will put his unblemished pro record on the line against an opponent to be determined for the 10-round co-featured event. Sumpter, fighting out of Pittsfield (MA), is one of the hottest prospects in the Northeast, coming off an impressive performance against previously unbeaten James “Pitbull” Perkins (12-0-1, 9 KOs) by way of an eight-round majority decision in the main event this past August at The Palladium.

“Pandemonium at the Palladium 2” will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com.

Also scheduled to be in action are a pair of Worcester fighters, light heavyweight Kendrick “Peppa” Ball, Jr. (21-1-3, 12 KOs) and super middleweight Khiary “TooSharp” Gray Pitts ((17-6, 13 KO). Ball is a former New England Middleweight and WBC USA Super Middleweight Champion. Pitts will be in his first fight in two years.

“The Palladium has been a hotbed of boxing in Massachusetts over the last couple of years,” GCP president Chris Traietti said. “There has been an insurgence of quality shows and Granite Chin is looking to be a part of it. On December 9^th, we are going to deliver the biggest show we have ever done! Champions are going to be crowned and future stars are going to get noticed.”

Card subject to change.

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

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

BOXXER, the fastest growing boxing promotional company in the UK, and NBC Sports have today announced a landmark media rights partnership that will bring the biggest events and brightest stars in boxing to U.S. audiences. The bouts will stream LIVE exclusively on NBCUniversal’s streaming platform Peacock with select events airing on NBC. 

Founded by the UK’s youngest licensed promoter Ben Shalom, BOXXER is a next generation professional boxing promoter focused on bringing inclusivity, innovation, and entertainment to one of the oldest sports in the world. 

Home to world champions, Olympic gold medallists and some of the sport’s most exciting contenders, BOXXER have broken a host of viewership records in the UK and Ireland while delivering unmissable events featuring sold-out arenas and stadia, and boxing’s biggest names going head-to-head.

BOXXER events air live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, after the leading UK sports broadcaster signed BOXXER as its exclusive British provider of boxing content in a landmark deal in 2021. 

The new partnership between BOXXER and NBC Sports will create a powerful extension to BOXXER’s and Sky Sports’ existing collaboration and provide trans-Atlantic distribution of Sky Sports’ world class production. 

The deal will see BOXXER fight nights added to NBC Sports’ portfolio of premium sport programming, which includes the Olympic Games, Premier League, Sunday Night Football, Big Ten Football and Basketball, Notre Dame Football, NASCAR, golf and much more. 

Together BOXXER and NBC Sports will build a boxing product for Peacock subscribers to enjoy with the ultimate goal to bring BOXXER events to the USA. 

The action begins on Saturday, October 21 LIVE from The O2 in London when #1 and #2 world ranked light heavyweights Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez put a decade long friendship aside to battle for bragging rights and a shot at the WBA World Title live on Peacock.

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re delighted to announce this landmark partnership with NBC Sports, in what is a major moment for the company, allowing audiences across the USA to watch our stars in action throughout the year. NBC Sports reaches millions of fans every day, providing an incredible platform Stateside for BOXXER and our elite roster. We look forward to kickstarting the partnership with a huge show on 21st October, as Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez put it all on the line at The O2 in London.” 

NBC Sports has brought boxing to millions of viewers across the country beginning with the first-ever live televised fight in 1939, when Lou Nova defeated Max Baer at Yankee Stadium. Over the decades to follow, NBC Sports’ coverage of the sport showcased stars including Joe Louis, “Sugar” Ray Robinson, Rocky Marciano, Muhammad Ali, “Sugar” Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler and Larry Holmes.

“We’re excited to bring boxing back to NBC Sports and, with the sport’s debut on Peacock, begin a new chapter in NBC Sports’ storied boxing history,” said Gary Quinn, Vice President, Programming & Owned Properties, NBC Sports.

— 

ABOUT BOXXER

BOXXER is a next-generation professional boxing promotion and the exclusive provider of boxing content to Sky Sports, the UK’s biggest sports television platform. We believe in the power of boxing and the next generation. Founded by the youngest licensed boxing promoter in the UK, Ben Shalom, our focus is to bring inclusivity, innovation and entertainment to one of the oldest sports in the world. 

ABOUT NBC SPORTS

NBC Sports connects people to the moments that matter most and serves sports fans 24/7 with premier live events, insightful studio shows, and compelling original programming. As the sports division of NBCUniversal, NBC Sports presents premier content across linear platforms NBC, USA Network, Golf Channel, as well numerous digital sites, including Peacock. NBC Sports possesses an unparalleled collection of media rights agreements, partnering with some of the most prestigious sports properties in the world: the International Olympic Committee and United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, the NFL, Big Ten Conference, NASCAR, INDYCAR, PGA TOUR, Notre Dame, The R&A, PGA of America, USGA, Churchill Downs, Premier League, MLB, Tour de France, Roland-Garros, and many more. It also consists of NBC Sports Next, a subdivision of NBC Sports and home to all NBCUniversal digital applications in sports and technology within its three groups: Youth & Recreational Sports, Golf, and Betting & Gaming.

New York, NY (October 16, 2023) Undefeated Welterweight Crusher Gor Yeritsyan, (16-0, 14 KOs), of Yerevan, Armenia, will battle Luis Alberto ‘Lucho’ Veron, (20-7-2, 9 KOs), of Buenos Aires, Argentina in an eight-round clash on the undercard to the ‘King’ Callum Walsh vs. Ismael Villarreal title fight set for Thursday, November 9 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS.

Presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, tickets for the night of world class boxing priced at $205, $155, $55, and $35 can be purchased online at www.msg.com or at the Madison Square Garden box office and via Ticketmaster locations.  Accessible and companion seats are available via the Accessibility Department at 888.609.7599.

Said Tom Loeffler, “We are excited to have Gor fight on this special show in New York City. Trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach, Gor has terrific opportunities ahead of him. He knows how important it is to make an impression fighting at Madison Square Garden and in front of the great New York boxing fans. We look for big things to come and this matchup with Luis Alberto Veron will provide an excellent challenge to his recent knockout performances.”

“We’ve had an overwhelming response to this event since its announcement and the excitement level from fans and media has only continued to grow in anticipation of fight night on November 9.”

Stated Gor Yeritsyan, “I’m very excited to be fighting at the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden. My promoter, 360 Promotions has matched me with a very good opponent, he has great experience and has fought some world class fighters.”

“My training camp with Freddie at Wild Card Boxing Gym is going very well, I’m confident I’ll be victorious. New York has a big Armenian community and I look forward to putting on a memorable show for them and the fans watching on UFC Fight Pass.”

“Calling the Garden ‘special’ is the biggest understatement in sports,” said Freddie Roach. “The names who have fought there, headlined there, could fill up several halls of fame.  Legends like Joe Louis, Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Joe Frazier, Sugar Ray Leonard, Roberto Duran, Oscar de la Hoya, Hector Camacho, Roy Jones, Miguel Cotto, and Katie Taylor.  The Garden reeks with history.  I never fought there but I always wanted to because I wanted to follow in the footsteps of giants.  Believe me, the significance of fighting at The Garden is not lost on Gor and he will make a very good first impression with New York boxing fans.” 

Making his third start of 2023 on November 9, Gor Yeritsyan has scored two crushing, second round knockouts this year. On June 9, 2023, he stopped world title challenger Gustavo David Vittori, following up with a knockout victory over Rogelio Jun Dolinguez on August 26, 2023. Both show-stopping knockouts took place in front of his legion of fans at the Commerce Casino.

Luis Alberto Veron returns to New York City following a hotly contested clash against fast rising contender Brian Ceballo on April 27, 2023. Veron has also faced a wealth of world class competition over his eight years as a professional including Alexis Rocha, Elvis Rodriguez, Taras Shelestyuk, and Michael McKinson.

Additional fights already announced for the huge November 9 event include an eight-round light heavyweight battle between Undefeated Powerhouse Umar Dzambekov, (7-0, 5 KOs), of Los Angeles, CA and Brooklyn, NY based, Hard-Hitting Frederic ‘The French Revolution’ Julan, (13-2, 10 KOs).

Also, in the lightweight division, Knockout Machine Cain Sandoval, (10-0, 10 KOs), of Sacramento, CA will battle Brooklyn’s Battle-Tested Wesley ‘El Bongocero’ Ferrer, (17-1-1, 8 KOs), in a scheduled eight-rounder.

Additional fights for the November 9 event will be announced shortly.

LAS VEGAS, NV (October 16, 2023) – Undefeated welterweight sensation Avious “Tha Underdog” Griffin (13-0, 12 KOs), is set to make his broadcast debut on November 4, 2023, live from the Polideportivo de Cartago in Costa Rica. Golden Boy Promotions will lead the charge in presenting all the electrifying action, streaming live on DAZN. In a highly anticipated 8-round co-main event bout, Griffin will square off against Nicaraguan slugger Noberto Casco (7-1, 5 KOs). The 10-round main event will feature a unified IBF and WBO minimumweight world title bout between Yokasta Valle (29-2, 9 KOs) and Anabel Ortiz (33-5, 4 KOs).

Hailing from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and currently residing in Las Vegas, NV, Griffin, a promotional free agent, has rapidly gained respect holding his own while sparring some of the best boxers in the world. His journey to this broadcast debut has been marked by a lot of sacrifice, faith, and hard work.

“I’ve been preparing for this moment since I was 8-years old.” said Griffin as he shared his excitement about this significant milestone in his career. “I can’t wait to step into the ring in Costa Rica and show the fans who I really am and what I’m about. I’m hungry and eager to leave my legacy in the world of boxing. It’s not on me, it’s in me and I’m up for this challenge. I’m grateful for the opportunity, and I’m ready to put on a show for the fans.”

“Avious brings a lot of heart and soul to the ring, and this moment represents a turning point in his career,” said Brandon Stump, President of CTB Athletics, Griffin’s manager. “He’s worked tirelessly to get here, and we’re grateful to Golden Boy Promotions and DAZN for giving us this opportunity. Avious is ready to make his mark, and the welterweight division, as well as everyone watching, are about to witness something special.”

Training at the world-renowned Mayweather Boxing Club under the guidance of Coach Bullet, Griffin, who has resurrected his career after being wrongly accused of murder, has honed his skills and prepared for this pivotal moment in his career. The addition of well-known strength and conditioning coach Larry Wade has further elevated his physical and mental preparation.

Known for his devastating knockout power, Avious “Tha Underdog” Griffin is primed to captivate audiences and is ready to dazzle in his broadcast debut while showcasing his talents on the global stage.

MIAMI, FL (October 15, 2023)—The World’s Greatest Promoter, Don King, was mixing and matching title fights and suddenly found himself with so many action packed fights that he has decided to split them off into two boxing extravaganzas on Saturday, Nov. 4 and Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Casino Miami Jai Alai.

King is going to celebrate his recent 92^nd birthday, but now he’s going to do it over two exciting and title ladened boxing cards.  “It’s going to be a November and December to remember,” said King.

King will spotlight the WBC Cruiserweight Championship featuring the top two contenders in Noel Mikaelian and Ilunga Makabu on Nov. 4^th and the two Cincinnati kids—Adrien Broner and Chris Howard will battle it out for the “People’s Champion” Welterweight bout on Saturday, Dec. 2.

King, who recently turned 92 years of age, has invited O’Jays founder and lead singer Edward Willis Levert, to celebrate the Nov. 4^th card and King’s birthday.   Levert, King’s dear friend, has volunteered to sing the national anthem and be a part of King’s Only in America 92 Celebration with the three national anthems of boxing—Give the People What They Want, Backstabbers and Money Money Money.

“I want to thank owner Phil Ruffin and general manager Daniel Licciardi for their support in allowing us to have two super nights of boxing at their Casino Miami Jai Alai,” said King.  “The Only in America 92 Celebration” extravaganza will be like no other and it will encompass two exciting nights of championship boxing.”

The Nov. 4^th card will have three co-feature title fights headlined by the 12-round battle for the WBC Cruiserweight vacant title as the number one ranked fighter, Mikaelian (26-2, 11 KOs) of Miami, FL via Armenia taking on the number two ranked fighter and former champion Makabu (29-3, 25 KOs) from Johannesburg, South Africa via the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Makabu, who lost his title to Badou Jack as he was stopped in the 12^th round, is hoping to regain his belt after Badou Jack relinquished the title.

The other tri-feature bout will spotlight two heavyweight champions putting their respective belts on the line.  The NABA Gold Heavyweight Champion Jonathan Guidry (19-1-2, 11 KOs) of Dulac, LA will tangle with the undefeated FECARBOX Heavyweight Champion Jesus Escalera (19-0, 19 KOs) of Riverview, FL via Puerto Rico.

The WBA Continental North America Heavyweight Championship will feature the former WBA champion Trevor Bryan (22-1, 15 KOs) of Ft. Lauderdale, FL via New York taking on challenger Cassius Chaney (22-1, 15 KOs) of New London, CT.

Adrien “The Problem” Broner, a four-time World Champion in four weight divisions, continues his return to the top of the welterweight division as he meets another Cincinnati, OH fighter in Howard (18-2-1, 8 KOs) for the “People’s Championship”.   Broner (35-4-1, 24 KOs) made his return to the ring on June 9^th a successful one in winning a unanimous decision over William “Hutch” Hutchinson.  It was Broner’s first fight in nearly 26 months, who is on a mission to secure the 140-pound world title.

Broner will dedicate this fight to his late trainer and mentor Mike Stafford, who passed away at the age of 67 in September.  A 10-bell salute will be held prior to the co-main event featuring Ian Green.

The super sensation fan favorite and WBA Continental America’s middleweight champion, Ian Green (17-2, 11 KOs) from Haledon, NJ will also be featured on the Dec. 2nd spectacular night of boxing as he defends his title against an opponent to be named.

Tickets, priced from $50, are on sale and can be purchased at www.playcasinomiami.com. Ringside tables are $3000. next level tables $2500, ringside seats $750 and side seats are $200 and $100. General Admission tickets at $50.

NEW YORK (October 14, 2023) -TONIGHT Undefeated junior welterweight Giovanni Marquez takes on veteran Donte Strayhorn at The Epicenter in Rosenberg, Texas.

Marquez, who is managed by Split-T Management, will be fighting in Rosenberg, which is just about 45 minutes from his Houston home. The 22-year-old National Golden Gloves winner, Marquez has a record of 6-0 with four knockouts. Marquez turned professional with a win over undefeated Nelson Morales and is coming off a second-round stoppage over Nicky Vittone on August 11th in Atlanta.

Strayhorn of Las Vegas is 12-4-1 with four knockouts. The 32-year-old is coming off an eight-round draw with undefeated Benjamin Gurment (8-0-2) on July 1st in Mesquite, Texas.

The fight will be streamed on ESPN+ beginning at 5:55 ET.

Marquez weighed 141.3 lbs. Strayhorn was 140.2 lbs.

Philadelphia, PA (October 13, 2023) — Saturday night at The Firt Bend Epicenter in Rosenberg, Texas, lightweight Nahir Albright will look for his second consecutive win over a United States Olympian when he fights Keyshawn Davis in a 10-round co-feature bout that will be televised live on ESPN (10:30 PM ET / 7:30 PT).

Albright of Philadelphia is promoted by RDR Promotions and has a record of 16-2 with seven knockouts. The 27-year-old is coming off a win over former Olympian Carlos Balderas (!4-1) on July 28th in Las Vegas, Albright also has defeated the likes of Danny Murray (1-0), Glenford Nickey (4-1-1), Roy Collins (6-1), Dante Cox (6-1), Jeremy Hill (15-1), Michael Dutchover (15-1) and Estivan Falcao (11-0).

Davis, who represented the United States at the 2021 Olympics is considered one of the top prospects in the sport and brings in a record of 9-0 with six knockouts. The 24-year-old native of Norfolk, Virginia has been moved quickly as he already has amassed wins over Richman Ashelley (10-1), Esteban Sanchez (10-1), Omar Tineda (25-5), former world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos (35-6-3), former world title challenger Anthony Yigit (26-2) and his last bout when he won a 10-round unanimous decision over Francisco Patera (28-3) July 22nd in Shawnee, Oklahoma.

Albright weighed 134.9 lbs. Davis 135 lbs.

HANOVER, MARYLAND (October 13, 2023) –Weights for Saturday Night’s Jeter Promotions card at The Hall iat Live! Casino and Hotel Maryland

Jaqueem Hutcherson 121.6 – Brandon Chambers 120.4

(UBO and UBF Intercontinental Super Bantamweight Titles)

Immanuel Aleem 182.2 – Antonio Hernandez 173.2

Ahmad Muhammad Jones 142.2 – Dionte Burts 143

Eric Hernandez 136.8 – Markus Bowes 136.4

Ezri Turner 165.4 – Joshua Dip 165.6

Joseph Veezey 143.6 – Steven Babsen 137.6

Marquel Johns 129.6 – Antonio Dunton-El 129.8

Ervin Fuller III 121.6 – Vit Y 120.6

Jeffrey Yu 129.3 – Darius Somieari 136

Micah Terrill 175.8 – Dah-Quan Erdington 183.4

Renaldo Gaines 136.6 – Darel Harris 137.2

Josiah Giles 146.6 – DeAndre Mesner 147.4

Tabish Faqiri 139.8 – Antwion McCollough 141.8

Vitalii Gubkin 166.6 – Derrick Vann 172.4

Promoter: Jeter Promotions (Tony and Christien Jeter)

Venue: The Halll at Live! Casino and Hotel Maryland

1st Bell: 6:30 PM ET (Doors open at 6 PM)

Tickets Range between $65 and $105 and can be Purchased at the following Link:

?CLICK FOR TICKETS

QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA – October 13, 2023 – Undefeated Australian superstar and WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion Tim Tszyu and top contender Brian Mendoza shared the stage during the final press conference before they share the ring headlining action live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 14 (Sunday, October 15 in Australia) from the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in Broadbeach, Queensland, Australia in a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL^® telecast begins at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT and will also feature Australia’s rising contender Sam Goodman squaring off against former world title challenger Miguel Flores in a 12-round bout at a catch-weight of 125 pounds.

The event is promoted by No Limit Boxing and The Rose Brothers, in association with TGB Promotions.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say from Queensland, Australia on Thursday (Friday in Australia):

TIM TSZYU

“It’s a good feeling (being back here on the Gold Coast). I haven’t been out too much, just around a little bit. But I definitely do feel the love, and this is one of the reasons why I always come back here. The Gold Coast feels like a second home. I thank everyone here for that support.

“I’m zoned in. There’s no love at all whatsoever (between me and Mendoza). And that’s what happens with each one of my opponents when I face them. Every little thing frustrates me about them. And I just have one thing on my mind and that’s victory by any means.

“He’s trying to take away everything that I’ve worked for. As a warrior, this is like me defending my land. He’s coming onto my land and there’s no way I’m going to allow him to try and take it.

“He’s a good guy and I’m not into all that booing and all that stuff. I think when fight night comes he’ll definitely feel the hostile crowd of the Tszyu land.

“I’m not here to do comparisons (on who’s the bigger puncher). He’s got a couple of real nice highlight KOs and I’ll have to put one on him.

“I’m 23-0 for a reason. No one’s figured out the puzzle. For him he’s on the rise, he’s on a roll. But 23 – numbers don’t lie.

“I’m not looking for just one world title. I’m looking for all four. This is because of one man’s [nervousness]. But I want all four. I’m in the present moment right now. I’m not thinking about that other bloke.

“Don’t blink.”

BRIAN MENDOZA

“In person, everyone’s been receiving me with lots of love here. I know you guys might not be fully rooting for me but I hope to gain a few more fans after fight night.

“It felt incredible (knocking out Sebastian Fundora). It’s a feeling that I can’t describe. And especially being in an underdog role and still pulling something like that off, it’s a dream come true. It’s a high I’m going to be chasing for the rest of my life.

“The common denominator (of dreams I’ve had about this fight) is that my hand gets raised at the end of the night.

“I’ve made my own real-life Rocky story. I didn’t mean to start it that way when I started my career but you have ups and downs in life and this is what it is. I clawed my way back from obscurity and now at this point I’m chasing greatness and I want this belt. It will change my life, my family’s life and everybody around me so that’s what I’ll be fighting for in the ring.

“I don’t care (how he feels about me). He still has to see me in the ring. It is what it is. Love me or hate me I’m here to win and to get the job done.”

SAM GOODMAN

“I’m always in the gym so if I’m in the gym I may as well be fighting. I want to stay active. I want to stay busy. Those are all the factors involved why I took this fight and at this level there’s no easy fights so I’m happy to take on a guy like Miguel Flores.

“He’s been in there with the best but he’s about to be in there with me and like the other fights went, he’s not winning this one.

“I know there’s a lot of eyes on this event and this match so I’ll be looking to send a message to everyone in the division and to everyone who has those belts. Whatever I have to do to get my hands on those belts, I’ll do.

“This is such a massive platform (being on SHOWTIME) and I’m stoked to be a part of it again so I’m ready to go. I’m ready to put on the performance of my lifetime and to destroy this bloke.”

MIGUEL FLORES

“We know that Sam Goodman is a good fighter, a good up-and-coming contender and we have our hands full.

“And like I said, Australia has been great but make no mistake. We’re not here to make friends. We’re here to put on a show and to go back to Houston with the victory.

“That was a great win for him (against Ra’eese Aleem). I can’t say I was surprised because in the ring anything can happen. But I thought he did enough to pull it off and that’s why he’s in the position that he’s in.

“But like I said, we’re not here to make friends. We’re here to beat him. I don’t want to say we’re here to upset because it’s not going to be an upset. We’re here to beat Sam Goodman.

“For once I’m the veteran in there and I’m going against the young lion. Usually, it’s the other way around. We have a plan but we’re ready to make adjustments in the ring if we have to and we’re ready to go.”

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

CARTAGO, COSTA RICA (October 13, 2023) – Unified IBF and WBO Minimumweight World Champion Yokasta “Yoka” Valle (29-2, 9 KOs) will return to her home country of Costa Rica to defend her world titles against former two-time World Champion of Mexico City, Anabel “Avispa” Ortiz (33-5, 4 KOs) in a 10-round match. The world championship event is scheduled to headline the Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN show on Saturday, November 4, live from the Polideportivo de Cartago in Costa Rica and broadcast on DAZN. 

In a quick turnaround, Yokasta Valle will be returning to the ring after a well-fought unanimous decision victory against Maria Santizo last September 16. Valle has made eight successful defenses of her IBF belt and her fight against Ortiz will mark her third defense as a unified champion. 

“I feel extremely happy to defend my titles again in my home country of Costa Rica with my people who I know are anxiously waiting for my return to fight,” said Yokasta Valle. “To know that I will hear them scream ‘Yoka! Yoka! Yoka!’ motivates me even more. This fight will not be the exception, especially fighting against a Mexican boxer who will enter the ring aggressively. Anabel Ortiz is a great fighter who I highly respect. I’ve been waiting to fight her for years, she is a former world champion with a lot of experience, she has defended her titles many times, and she has the desire to become World Champion yet again. I am ready for November 4!” 

Former Champion Anabel Ortiz held the WBA World Minimumweight World Title several years and made 12 successful title defenses. She was last seen in October 2022 also against Maria Santizo on a Golden Boy Fight Night card. 

“I am really happy to fight in another country, Costa Rica, the home of a highly respected World Champion,” said Anabel Ortiz. “I was surprised and full of enthusiasm when I received the news that I would be fighting Yokasta. It’s been a year since I’ve been able to fight, and there’s nothing more motivating than knowing you have an opportunity to fight a world championship.” 

More information on the undercard will be announced in the coming weeks. 

London, England – (October 13, 2023) – For the millions who will be watching around the world – and the ten thousand fans inside The O2 – the wait is almost over:  #1-ranked light-heavyweight Joshua Buatsi and #2-ranked Dan Azeez will do battle just X days from now.

And fans now know the exact time the two light-heavyweight heroes will be in the ring, as ringwalk times have today been confirmed for the Saturday, October 21st showdown which will see a new world title contender emerge.

Dan Azeez will make his ringwalk at 9.45pm, followed by Buatsi, with the final eliminator showdown between them expected to start around 10pm. The winner will emerge in pole position for a shot at the WBA World Light-Heavyweight Championship held by Dmitry Bivol.

Ringwalk times have also been confirmed for the highly-anticipated chief support bout, a bad blood British Cruiserweight Championship clash between bitter rivals Mikael Lawal and Isaac Chamberlain. 

Chamberlain will walk to the ring at 8.45pm to await defending champion Lawal, setting up a seismic clash expected to commence at 9pm. 

All the action is available live and exclusively on Sky Sports Arena and Sky Sports Showcase from 7pm and Sky Sports Main Event from 10pm. 

The full card is as follows:

12 x 3 mins – WBA World Light Heavyweight Final Eliminator, British Light Heavyweight Championship, Commonwealth Light Heavyweight Championship @ 12st 7lbs

JOSHUA BUATSI vs DAN AZEEZ

(Croydon). (Lewisham)

12 x 3 mins – British & vacant Commonwealth Cruiserweight Championship @ 14st 4lbs 

MIKAEL LAWAL. V. ISAAC CHAMBERLAIN

(Shepherd’s Bush) (Brixton)

12 x 3 mins – Commonwealth Super Welterweight Championship & Bri?sh Super Welterweight Final eliminator @ 11st

LOUIS GREENE. V. SAM GILLEY

(Strood). (Walthamstow)

8 x 2 mins – Featherweight contest @ 9st

KARRISS ARTINGSTALL. V. VANESSA BRADFORD 

(Macclesfield). (Canada)

8 x 3 mins – Super Welterweight contest @11st 6lbs

MICHAEL HENNESSY JR. V. JOE LAWS 

(Sevenoaks). (Benwell)

ROSENBERG, Texas (Oct. 12, 2023) — The Middleweight Boogeyman is ready for his opportunity to unify titles.

WBO world champion Janibek “Qazaq Style” Alimkhanuly (14-0, 9 KOs) will square off against unbeaten IBF world champion Vincenzo Gualtieri (21-0-1, 7 KOs) in a title unification showdown this Saturday at Fort Bend Epicenter in Rosenberg, Texas. 

In the 10-round lightweight co-feature, U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis (9-0, 6 KOs) takes another step up in class against Philadelphia-born contender Nahir Albright (16-2, 7 KOs).

Janibek-Gualtieri and Davis-Albright will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (5:55 p.m. ET/2:55 p.m. PT) features U.S. Olympic silver medal heavyweight standout Richard Torrez Jr. (6-0, 6 KOs) in a six-rounder against Tyrrell Anthony Herndon (21-4, 14 KOs).

Houston native Giovanni Marquez (6-0, 4 KOs) will take on Donte Strayhorn (12-4-1, 4 KOs) in a junior welterweight tilt scheduled for six rounds, and U.S. Olympic silver medalist Duke Ragan (8-0, 1 KOs) returns in an eight-round featherweight clash against Jose Perez (11-1-2, 5 KOs).

Junior welterweight prospect Kelvin Davis (9-0, 6 KOs), Keyshawn’s older brother, will make his third appearance of 2023 in an eight-rounder against Narciso Carmona (11-1-1, 6 KOs).

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with AGON Sports & Events, tickets are on sale now via ETix. 

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

Janibek Alimkhanuly 

“It’s going to be a very good fight. I want to thank my opponent for bringing his title into this battle. I expect it to be a very good fight on Saturday night. I will once again show what ‘Qazaq Style’ is.”

“I changed my trainer for this fight. We got all the knowledge that we could from Buddy McGirt. And now we have a new trainer in Brian Viloria. We are doing new workouts and learning new things. We’re also adding things to my style. On Saturday night, you’ll see a new side of me.”

“My new trainer was a world champion, so he knows what this is about. It was our first camp together, so we couldn’t add too much. But I’ll show what I learned in the ring on Saturday night.”

Vincenzo Gualtieri

“I am happy to be here. It has always been my dream to have a fight here in the United States. Now, my dream has come true, and I expect to be the winner on Saturday.”

“For this fight, I had more sparring partners than in previous camps, and I’ve been more focus than ever before. I have invested everything in this training camp.”

“This fight means everything to me. It’s why I worked so hard in camp. A lot of people underestimate me, but I’m here to prove that I will be successful.” 

Keyshawn Davis

“I feel great. I feel the best that I’ve ever felt. I’ve made a lot of adjustments. We followed the game plan in training camp. And, honestly, this is the best I’ve ever felt before a fight.”

“If you miss it, you’re going to see it all over social. His a** is going to be on SportsCenter and Sky Sports. He’s really a rookie. I’m going to show it.”

“We ain’t coming here to play. He already knows how I’m coming. You don’t have to be scared to get f**ked up!”

Nahir Albright 

“I didn’t really learn anything in my last fight {against Karlos Balderas}. I just showed where I belong. I came out and did what I was supposed to do and got the win.”

“Every time I walk into the ring, I think about my daughter. It’s motivation. It’s motivation during training camp. And I always bring that energy with me.”

“We stepped it up in sparring. I got all types of sparring. I got sparring from my little brother, Quadir Albright, as well. He’s the best junior welterweight coming up.”

Richard Torrez Jr.

“I think what you can expect is very similar to what you’ve seen. I’m going to try to push the pace, throw lots of feints and dictate the fight. At the end of the day, you can put anybody in there and Richard Torrez is still going to be in the ring as well. So, I’m not really worried about what my opponent has to offer. I’m more concerned with what I bring to the table.”

Giovanni Marquez

“I’m extremely excited. This is a great opportunity. I’m excited to see all my friends, family and hometown fans. And I’m ready to just go out there and put all my hard training to use and give the fans a spectacular performance.”

Saturday, October 14

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

Janibek Alimkhanuly vs. Vincenzo Gualtieri, 12 rounds, WBO/IBF Middleweight World Title Unification 

Keyshawn Davis vs. Nahir Albright, 10 rounds, USBA/WBO International/WBC USA Lightweight Titles

ESPN+ (5:55 p.m. ET/2:55 p.m. PT)

Richard Torrez Jr. vs. Tyrrell Anthony Herndon, 6 rounds, heavyweight

Jakhongir Zokirov vs. Guillermo Del Rio, 4 rounds heavyweight

LAS VEGAS – October 12, 2023 – Undefeated two-time super middleweight world champion David “El Monstruo” Benavídez will defend his Interim WBC Super Middleweight Title against unbeaten two-division world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade headlining a SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, November 25 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. 

Benavidez vs. Andrade is one of the most compelling matches in the super middleweight division, pitting two undefeated boxers with world championship pedigrees and intriguingly combative and difficult styles to solve, as Benavidez is a come-forward, hard-nosed warrior, while Andrade is a master technician of the sweet science.

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

“Saturday, November 25 is going to be a holiday feast for boxing fans, with high-stakes matchups from top to bottom, all headlined by one of boxing’s most dangerous stars in David Benavídez taking on his most accomplished foe to date in Demetrius Andrade,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This will be another night that promises start to finish fireworks on SHOWTIME PPV and live in the boxing capital of the world in Las Vegas.”

“Just like David Benavidez, Demetrius Andrade is a fighter nobody wants to face, so it’s very exciting that these two bogeymen of boxing will be facing each other on November 25,” said Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing. “I expect Demetrius to come with his best because of the huge opportunity that will await the winner of this fight. I give David Benavidez all of the credit for once again proving that he will fight anyone at any time. He is a true champion and this will be another great fight.”

“Benavidez vs. Andrade is a career-defining matchup of two of the most avoided and skilled fighters in boxing whose desire to be great and will to win should push them both to be at their best on Nov. 25,” said Stephen Espinoza, President, Sports & Event Programming, Showtime Networks Inc. “This event continues a torrid run of big events on SHOWTIME PPV and will include an undercard of competitive, compelling fights that have become the standard for SHOWTIME PPV events.”

The 26-year-old undefeated Benavídez (27-0, 23 KOs) returns after besting longtime rival Caleb Plant via unanimous decision in a SHOWTIME PPV slugfest from March. Benavídez became the youngest-ever 168-pound world champion at just 20-years-old when he defeated Ronald Gavril by split decision for the vacant WBC title in 2017. A Phoenix-native who now lives and trains in Seattle, Washington, Benavidez has stamped his place in the super middleweight division with knockout power in both hands and improving ring savvy with each fight. When he was 15 years old, Benavídez went from weighing 250 pounds to a boxing prodigy under the watchful eye of his father and trainer, Jose, Sr., and his brother and veteran contender Jose Jr., as he famously held his own in sparring against middleweight champions Gennady Golovkin and Peter Quillin as a teenager. Benavídez rode a string of six straight knockout victories heading into the bout against Plant, including KOs of former world champions Anthony Dirrell and David Lemieux.

“I’m really excited to come back again and fight on pay-per-view,” said Benavidez. “Andrade is a slick fighter, but I’m the bigger, stronger and better boxer. I know the kind of fight that fans expect from me, so I’m putting in the work every day so that I can step into the ring on November 25 and go for the knockout. I’m coming to show everyone why I’m ‘El Monstruo’ at 168 pounds.”

A 2008 U.S. Olympian from Providence, Rhode Island, Andrade (32-0, 19 KOs) captured world titles at 154 and 160-pounds with sublime precision punching and defensive prowess as he fights for the second time at 168 pounds. The 35-year-old first captured a 154-pound title with a 2013 victory over Vanes Martirosyan, winning another belt at the weight class by defeating Jack Culcay in 2017, before moving up to middleweight. Andrade won a dominant decision over Walter Kautondokwa in October 2018 to win a vacant world title at 160 pounds, before putting together a string of five consecutive title defenses. Andrade debuted at 168 pounds in January, dropping Demond Nicholson twice on his way to a shutout unanimous decision. Before turning pro, Andrade was a prolific amateur, winning the World Amateur Championship once and the U.S. Amateur Championship twice, while racking up victories against pro champions Keith Thurman, Daniel Jacobs, Shawn Porter and Austin Trout.

“I’m having a great training camp and I can’t wait for November 25,” said Andrade. “I expect myself and David Benavidez to bring our best on fight night and give the fans a memorable matchup. I have the tools and ability to beat anybody, and I’ll win this fight because of the confidence I have in my skills.”

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