Based on his performance this past weekend, it would be understandable for most of the world’s 122-lb fighters to want to avoid UK-based WBO Super Bantamweight Champion Isaac Dogboe… Not Arnold Khegai.

Khegai, the ethnic Korean, Ukrainian-born #12-rated WBO contender, is calling out Dogboe.

“I feel I am the best super bantamweight in the world!” said the confident Khegai. “I want to prove my point by fighting the most avoided fighters in the division. Bring on Dogboe!”

Last Saturday night at the Gila River Arena in Glendale, California, the undefeated Dogboe (20-0, 14 KOs) scored an eye-opening TKO 1 over challenger Hidenori Otake of Japan. Dogboe looked to be a serious force while dominating his foe and dropping him twice with relative ease.

Khegai (13-0-1, 9 KOs) also wowed the boxing world in May of this year, with a dominant unanimous decision over well-respected contender Adam Lopez, live on Showtime.

“I know Isaac had an impressive victory and I commend him for that,” continued Khegai. “But I will gladly fight him. I know I can’t be beat at this weight and I’ll fight anyone to prove it.”

“Arnold is a blue-chip contender on his way to becoming a dominant name in the super bantamweight division,” said his promoter, Dmitriy Salita. “Not only does he have the skills and power, but most importantly, he has the desire to fight the best. That is a complete package.”

OAKLAND, Calif. (Aug. 27, 2018) — IBF super middleweight champion José Uzcátegui, the power-punching boogeyman of the 168-pounders, will face Ezequiel Maderna in the 10-round, non-title main event on Friday, Sept. 28 at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, California.

And, in the co-feature, Jerwin Ancajas, the world’s longest-reigning 115-pound world champion, is ready to add another defense to his résumé. The southpaw Filipino sensation will make the sixth defense of his IBF junior bantamweight world title against the hard-charging Alejandro Santiago.

Ancajas-Santiago and Uzcátegui-Maderna will stream live in the United States beginning at 10:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+ — the new multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

The undercard will stream on ESPN+ beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET and includes a matchup of former 122-pound world champions: Jessie Magdaleno will take on Rico Ramos in a 10-round featherweight bout. Also appearing on the ESPN+ broadcast will be 118-pound contender Joshua Greer Jr. (17-1-1, 9 KOs) making his Top Rank debut in a 10-rounder against Giovanni Delgado (16-7, 9 KOs); the return of Filipino featherweight contender Genesis Servania (31-1, 14 KOs); and 18-year-old featherweight sensation Christopher Zavala (1-0) in a four-rounder.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MP Promotions and Zanfer Promotions, tickets for this all-action card go on sale Wednesday, Aug. 29 at 10 a.m. PST. Priced at $105, $78.75, $52.50, and $26.25, including facility fees, tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or at the Oracle Arena box office. The Oracle Arena box office is open Monday-Friday from 12-5 p.m.

“This is my first fight since winning the world title, and I will be representing my country and my beloved Tijuana, Mexico, with pride and guts,” Uzcátegui said. “I will show the world and my opponent why I’m the best super middleweight in the world right now!”

“I am very excited to defend my title in Oakland in front of the great fans there, and I look forward to a great challenge from Santiago,” Ancajas said. “There is a large Filipino community in Northern California, so I expect an incredible atmosphere inside the Oracle Arena. I also want to thank MP Promotions, Sean Gibbons, Top Rank, and Mr. Bob Arum for this opportunity.”

“I want to be a world champion again. I have that fire and that fuel, and I am ready to do whatever it takes to get back there,” Madgaleno said. “I have new trainers, Ismael Salas and Jorge Capetillo, and I feel like it’s been a great move. I feel like I Iacked movement in my last fight, and I felt like I needed to get back to the way I was when I won the world title against Nonito Donaire. Everyone will see a renewed Jessie Magdaleno when I fight Rico Ramos.”

Uzcátegui (27-2, 23 KOs) is coming off the biggest win of his career, an eighth-round stoppage against former world champion Andre Dirrell on March 3. It was a rematch of a controversial 2017 disqualification defeat for Uzcátegui, who was ruled to have knocked out Dirrell after the bell had sounded to end the eighth round. The win over Dirrell earned Uzcátegui the IBF interim title, but he was elevated to full champion after then-champion James DeGale elected to vacate the belt rather than face Uzcátegui. A native of El Vigia, Venezuela, Uzcátegui’s last 10 wins have come via stoppage. Maderna (26-4, 16 KOs), from Buenos Aires, Argentina, turned pro in 2008 and has won three of his past four fights.

Ancajas (28-1-1, 19 KOs) from Barangay Ramirez, Magallanes, Cavite, Philippines, is a southpaw power puncher who has been a world champion since Sept. 3, 2016, when he knocked down McJoe Arroyo in the eighth round en route to a unanimous decision victory. He is one of boxing’s most active champions, having defended his title three times in 2017 and twice in 2018. In his last bout, May 26 at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, California, Ancajas defeated countryman Jonas Sultan via unanimous decision in the first all-Filipino world title bout since 1925. Ancajas is 16-0 with 14 knockouts since his only loss, a 10-round majority decision to Mark Geraldo on March 17, 2012.

Santiago (16-2-4, 7 KOs), a native of Tijuana, Mexico, is riding an 11-bout unbeaten streak dating back to August 2015. He last fought on March 14 in Ponce, Puerto Rico, battling to a spirited draw versus Jose Martinez for the NABO super flyweight title.

Magdaleno (25-1, 18 KOs) is a former WBO junior featherweight world champion who lost the belt in one of the best fights of 2018. On April 28 in Philadelphia, he knocked down Isaac Dogboe in the first round, but Dogboe rallied to score three knockdowns of his own and knock Magdaleno out in the 11th round of an instant classic. Ramos (29-5, 14 KOs), is a 10-year pro, won the WBA 122-pound title with a shocking, one-punch left hook knockout against Akifumi Shimoda in 2011, but lost the title in his first defense against then-unbeaten Guillermo Rigondeaux on Jan. 20, 2012 in Las Vegas. Ramos has won five in a row since a third-round KO loss against Claudio Marrero in July 2015.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International (DTCI) segment in conjunction with ESPN. ESPN+ offers fans two exclusive, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to exclusive Top Rank boxing content, programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports from more than 15 conferences), UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby, cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

NEW YORK – August 27, 2018 – SHOWTIME has acquired the television rights to CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS, a documentary film that takes viewers through the New York Golden Gloves tournament, one of the most prestigious amateur boxing tournaments in the country. Written and directed by journalist Bartle Bull, the film will premiere Friday, September 21 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME.

CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS chronicles three inspiring fighters—James Wilkins, Nisa Rodriguez, and Titus Williams—as they navigate the 10-week tournament and fight their way among 500 boxers from the five boroughs, all vying for the coveted title of Golden Gloves champion. Through the three intertwined yet unique narratives, the film explores the pressures and sacrifices on the arduous journey toward boxing greatness.

Shot in a cinema verité-style with no voice-over narration, the character-driven narrative examines what it means to “fight for your life,” not only for the boxers, but also for their coaches, mentors, teammates and loved ones. CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS includes genuine characters and intimate revelations set against the gritty urban landscape of New York City to create a powerful and layered account of the 2015 tournament.

The film follows Williams and Wilkins as they battle through opposite sides of the 132-pound bracket. Williams is the tournament favorite on the brink of professional success. He is mentored by coach Joe Higgins, a retired New York City firefighter suffering from illnesses sustained during rescue and recovery efforts at the World Trade Center in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Wilkins, a Staten Island native who channels his propensity for fighting into an amateur career, aims to beat Williams and establish himself as a prospect to watch as he turns to the professional ranks. Meanwhile, single mother and teacher Rodriquez—a five-time Golden Glove champion and self-proclaimed, “fighting pride of the South Bronx”—attempts to cement her legacy as she sets her sights on the 2016 Olympic Trials.

CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS is Bull’s first endeavor into documentary filmmaking. A New York based author and journalist by trade who specializes in foreign affairs and the Middle East, Bull has appeared on NPR, Fox News, BBC, and other news outlets, and his work has been featured in New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal.

CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS is executive produced by Donald Rosenfeld (Tree of Life, Jodorowsky’s Dune, Remains of the Day) and written and directed by Bull, in association with cinematographer Tom Hurwitz (The Queen of Versailles) and editor Michael Levine (Restrepo). The film was an official selection at the 2017 American Documentary Film Festival, the 2017 Santa Barbara International Film Festival and Doc NYC 2017. CRADLE OF CHAMPIONS was named Best Feature at the 2017 Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.

PHILADELPHIA, Penn. /ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 27, 2018) – Ruben Villa (13-0, 5 KOs) continued his trend of routing opponents on the scorecards by thoroughly outpointing Jose Santos Gonzalez (23-7, 13 KOs) in Friday night’s “Locked n’ Loaded” main event.

Villa used his signature quickness to batter Gonzalez throughout the 8-round fight.

“I was able to find the range from the outside and also get inside a little bit,” said Villa after the fight. “He was a little bit awkward, but I still found ways to land combinations.”

To watch a replay of the fight, please click here.

The southpaw from Salinas, Calif. hammered Gonzalez with accurate jabs and punishing left hands. In nearly every round, Villa, 21, rocked Gonzalez on his heels with a variety of punches from all sorts of angles.

Gonzalez, despite his experience in high profile fights, was unable to muster any kind of attack. He nearly went down in the fifth when Villa cracked him with a body shot. Scores: 80-72, 79-73 twice.

Villa is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

Photo by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 26, 2018): Lineal Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (49-1-2, 34 KOs) and WBC, WBA and IBO Middleweight Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin (38-0-1, 34 KOs) hosted a Los Angeles media workout in front of thousands of fans at the new Banc of California Stadium ahead of their historic rematch. The fight will take place Saturday, Sept. 15 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at a special time of 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

Jaime Munguia (30-0, 25 KOs), who will defend his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title in the 12-round co-main event against rugged Canadian contender Brandon “Bad Boy” Cook (20-1, 13 KOs), also participated in the workout.

Here’s what the participants had to say at today’s event:

CANELO ALVAREZ, Lineal Middleweight World Champion:
“We’re getting close to the fight, and I feel good. This fight is personal because of all that’s been said, and it will be difficult to regain the respect that we once had. The statements that have been made about me have given me more motivation to train harder. I have watched the first fight several times. The error that I made was that I had opportunities to counter that I needed to have taken advantage of. I need to do that in the rematch.

Like I’ve said many times, the first fight gave me the guideline for the second fight. I know that I can do many things in the ring against him. I know that I can hurt him. I hurt him in the first fight, and I’m going to hurt him even more in the second fight. My objective is the knockout and I’ll be looking for that from the opening round.”

Golovkin knows who I am. He knows who I’m about. Let me put it even better–he still doesn’t know how much more I have left to show. I’m looking forward to showing him that on September 15. I have to win convincingly. It has to be a knockout to erase any doubts. I’m very motivated for this win. I’m confident, but not overconfident about my opponent because I know who he is, but I’m confident in my preparation.

There is no such thing as a Mexican style. There have been many fighters from Mexico with different styles. My style is mine. I’m Mexican and that’s what is important. Maybe Golovkin uses ‘Mexican Style’ to get fans, but he’s a hypocrite. If something were to happen in Mexico, he wouldn’t be there to support them.

GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN, WBC/WBA/IBO Middleweight World Champion:
“Canelo, he is not a champion. He is a liar who has no respect for the sport of boxing or its fans. I want to stay world champion and bring all my belts home. I am ready to star in another Big Drama Show. I do not think about Canelo in training. I am not worried about him. I only worry about doing my job in training camp and doing my job in the ring against Canelo on September 15. In the last fight I did not feel any real power from Canelo. Just slaps. He is not the hardest puncher I have fought, but he is fast and quick. He is the most skilled fighter I have fought. He is a very good fighter.

I am happy to get at Canelo again. It is another big chance to beat him again. Of course I want to knock out Canelo. It would be nice if Canelo came to fight this time. I don’t believe what he says about how he will fight me this time. He said the same thing before our first fight. I will definitely be more aggressive in this fight.

Was I upset that Canelo failed two drug tests? Yes. But I was more upset at Canelo’s team. The excuses they gave, their attitude, and Canelo’s reaction, it showed that they have no respect for the sport or the fans. They showed their real faces. They are fakes. I do not feel anger toward him because the rematch was canceled the first time.

But I did lose all respect for him. Canelo is not the biggest name in boxing, just the biggest scandal. I feel very comfortable. It has been a great training camp. Abel has had me working on new things which I find very exciting. The cancelation of the rematch in May was a good life experience but it was not a good experience for boxing. I believe new judges and a new referee could be better for boxing and the fans.”

JAIME MUNGUÍA, WBO Junior Middleweight World Champion:
“Fighting on this card is a great opportunity, especially on a date that is so important for Mexicans. I have the obligation to give a great fight to all the fans. I know Brandon Cook is a tough opponent. He is older than me and has a lot of experience. But I think I’m stronger than him and have a reach advantage. I’m confident I’ll walk away with my hand raised.

This fight is an obligation to come in even better than last time. I need to show that I’ve gotten a lot better. I never knew that I would get so far in my career so quickly, but things happen for a reason. The Liam Smith fight gave me a lot of experience. It showed me all the errors I made that I am now working on in the gym.

A lot of fighters would love to be fighting frequently. It’s an opportunity that any fighter would desire. So I have to take advantage of that. If my body allows, I will continue be an active fighter as a world champion.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions:
“This fight is something different. This fight is personal. I’ve never seen Canelo so angry. He really wants to knock Golovkin out. As a promoter, I want to see him knock Golovkin out. This fight is every important for Mexican people. This is a Mexican date, and I’m excited we can bring fans an exciting and memorable event during Mexican Independence Day Weekend.”

TOM LOEFFLER, Promoter of Gennady “GGG” Golovkin:
“This is the biggest fight, the biggest boxing event of the year. The two best middleweights going mano a mano for all the marbles. Gennady is going for the all-time consecutive title defense record to further burnish his place as the top pound for pound fighter of his era.

Canelo vs. GGG 2 is a 12-round fight for the middleweight championship of the world presented by Golden Boy Promotions and GGG Promotions. Munguia vs. Cook is a 12-round battle for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Promotions. Lemieux vs. O’Sullivan is a 12-round middleweight clash presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Eye of The Tiger Management in association with Murphy’s Boxing. Gonzalez vs. Fuentes is a 10-round super flyweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions and GGG Promotions in association with Teiken Promotions and Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle,” O’Reilly Auto Parts, Fred Loya Insurance, Interjet, Venom, and Fathom Events. The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 15 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at a special time of 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

“24/7 Canelo/GGG 2” premieres Tuesday, Aug. 28 at 11:30 pm (ET/PT) on HBO. Canelo’s fifth “24/7” appearance and Golovkin’s third, “24/7 CANELO/GGG 2” is the latest installment of the acclaimed franchise that began in 2007.

Limited tickets for Canelo vs. GGG 2 are still available, and are priced at $5,000, $2,500, $2,000, $1,500, $800, $700, and $500 not including applicable service charges and taxes. There will be a limit of eight (8) per person at the $5,000, $2,500, $2,000, $1,500, $800, $700 and $500 price levels. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets are also available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com or www.axs.com.

Tickets are on sale for the closed circuit telecast of Canelo vs. GGG 2 at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, The Mirage and Luxor are priced at $100, not including applicable fees. Seating is general admission at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and The Mirage while Luxor will have assigned seats. Tickets may be purchased at any MGM Resorts International Box Office, by phone with a major credit card at (800) 745-3000 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/canelovsggg2.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com,
www.caneloggg.com and www.hbo.com/boxing. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @gggboxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @hboboxing and @TomLoeffler1. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/gggboxing, and www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @gggboxing, @HBOboxing and @OscarDeLaHoya; and follow the conversation using #CaneloGGG2.

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link http://bit.ly/CaneloGGG2 into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy Promotions for any photo and/or video usage.

BEIJING, CHINA – UFC® today confirmed its first-ever event in Beijing, China, will be headlined by top-tier heavyweights, with both men eagerly planning to use this matchup to enter the title contention zone. In a highly anticipated rematch between no. 4-ranked heavyweight Francis Ngannou (11-3, fighting out of Las Vegas, USA) and no. 3-ranked Curtis Blaydes (10-1, fighting out of Chicago, USA), these two standout competitors will be looking to make a statement on Saturday, November 24 at the Cadillac Arena. Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT® BEIJING: NGANNOU vs. BLAYDES, Presented by General Tire, are on-sale now via Damai.cn and 247tickets.com.

This will be the second time that “The Predator” Ngannou and “Razor” Blaydes meet inside the world-famous Octagon®, with their first fight ending with Ngannou, a native of Cameroon capturing the victory by TKO after the second round in April 2016. Since this win, Ngannou has decisively won four of his last six fights, with three knockouts and one submission, all in the first round.

Two years later, Blaydes has gone on to defeat heavyweight legends including Mark Hunt and former Strikeforce® heavyweight champion and interim DREAM heavyweight champion Alistair Overeem. With a four-fight winning streak powering him, the Chicago standout will be looking to continue his rise to the top and potentially earn his place in front of heavyweight champion and UFC light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier.

“After our sellout debut in Shanghai last November, we are thrilled to host our second event in Mainland China,” UFC VP of Asia Pacific Kevin Chang said. “Our main event features two top ranked heavyweights with huge title implications, and together with our rising Chinese stars, UFC Fight Night Beijing on November 24th will be a night to remember.”

UFC is working together with Endeavor China, a subsidiary of Endeavor, to deliver the live event.

“Endeavor China is excited to once again bring UFC – the world’s premier professional MMA organization – to Chinese audiences. After the great success of last year’s event in Shanghai, we are happy to announce that this year’s UFC Fight Night event will take place in the country’s capital, Beijing,” said Michael Ma, Endeavor China CEO. He continued, “MMA’s popularity is quickly rising in China, and we look forward to bringing our growing fanbase the best that UFC has to offer.”

Fans in China will be given a night to remember as the heavyweight stars lead an international card of skilled mixed martial artists. Each athlete will demonstrate their abilities and eagerness to impress the Beijing crowd and UFC fans around the world.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT® BEIJING: NGANNOU vs. BLAYDES, Presented by General Tire also includes the following matchups. Bouts are subject to change:

· Chinese heavyvweight prospect Yaozhong Hu (3-1, fighting out of Beijing, China) meets knockout artist Rashad Coulter (8-4, fighting out of Dallas, , USA)

· In a women’s flyweight showdown, well-rounded Yanan Wu (9-2, fighting out of Xi’an, China) faces Shana Dobson (3-3, fighting out of Fort Worth, USA)

More fights will be announced in the coming weeks, and fans can keep up to date with the latest event information by following us on Weibo: @UFC???????, Wechat: UFC???????(ufcofficial) Youku, QQ, Facebook (UFC Asia), Twitter and Instagram (@ufc), and use our official hashtag: #UFCBEIJING

Tickets are on sale now for UFC Fight Night® BEIJING: NAGANNOU vs. BLAYDES, Presented by General Tire via Damai.cn and 247tickets.com. Ticket categories are Lower Bowl 1 RMB1,480, Lower Bowl 2 RMB1,280, Lower Bowl 3 RMB880, Lower Bowl 4 RMB680, Upper Bowl 1 RMB480, Upper Bowl 2 RMB380, Upper Bowl 3 RMB280.

UFC VIP Experience packages and floor seats are now available. VIP Packages start at RMB 9,880 (row 3), RMB 13,880 (row 2), to RMB 16,680 (row 1), each with exclusive VIP privileges. Remaining floor seats are RMB 3,880.

About UFC®

UFC® is a premium global sports brand and the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2018, UFC boasts more than 284 million fans worldwide and has produced over 440 events in 22 countries since its inception in 1993. Acquired in 2016 by global sports, entertainment and fashion leader Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG), together with strategic partners Silver Lake Partners and KKR, UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas with a network of employees around the world. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe, while programming is broadcast in over 160 countries and territories to more than 1.1 billion TV households worldwide in 40 different languages. UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service, delivers exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content to fans around the world. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

About Endeavor China

Endeavor China is a subsidiary of Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG), a global leader in sports, entertainment and fashion operating in more than 30 countries. Formed through an investment group that includes Sequoia Capital China, Tencent, FountainVest Partners and Focus Media, Endeavor China is focused on building upon Endeavor’s longstanding presence in the region and advancing its growth across entertainment and sports.

About General Tire

The General Tire brand originated from Fort Mill, South Carolina in 1915 and owns the world’s largest tire site in Uvalde, Texas. The brand is part of Continental Tires, a company of Germany-based Continental AG. For over a century, General Tire has been passionately committed to its core values of Performance, Reliability, and American Heritage. The brand offers consumers a wide range of tire products, including high-performance tires, passenger car tires and off-road tires. General Tire strives to unleash the potential of every SUV, providing a fearless driving experience to adventure-loving APAC drivers – Anywhere is Possible with General Tire.

Los Angeles, CA (August 26, 2018) Saturday in Los Angeles, 360 Promotions kicked off a full schedule of events for fans and media leading up to the highly anticipated SUPERFLY3 world championship, international boxing card by hosting a ‘Meet and Greet’ at the Filipino Community Center in Los Angeles. Among those on-hand to meet the large crowd of fans and media were three-division world champion and #1 world ranked Donnie ‘The Snake’ Nietes, #2 world ranked contender ‘Mighty’ Aston Palicte, women’s world title challenger ‘Bang Bang Lulu’ Louisa Hawton along with 360 Promotions’ President Tom Loeffler and Event Host Cynthia Conte.

Ranked #1 and #2 respectively by the World Boxing Organization, Filipino rivals Nietes and Palicte will battle for the vacant WBO Super Flyweight World Title on Saturday, September 8 at the “Fabulous” Forum and televised on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

Featured on the outstanding live-streamed undercard, Hawton, (8-1-0, 4 KO’s) of Perth, Australia will face Brenda Flores, (12-4-1, 2KO’s) of Tijuana, Mexico for the World Boxing Council Women’s Atomweight World Title.

DONNIE NIETES
“This fight represents a lot to me as I will seeking my fourth world championship in a fourth different weight division. Winning the world title will put me at the level of Manny Pacquiao and Nonito Donaire and will add worldwide recognition to my career.”

“I believe my fight with Aston has a very real possibility of being the best fight of the night. We are both training very hard and I am sure that we will be at our very best on September 8 and will give all the fans a great fight.”

“I would be worried if we were playing basketball, but this is boxing and I know how to fight taller opponents and that is why we are working so hard in the gym. I think it’s very important that Filipino boxing has reached the level where we fight for a world title against each other and at a historic venue like the Forum and on HBO.”

ASTON PALICTE
“I am happy to have the opportunity to fight for a world championship on such a big card and to be on HBO. The fact the we are both Filipino doesn’t matter, we are both here to do a job and no matter what happens we will still be friends after the fight.”

“I have worked very hard to get here and I want to give the fans the best fight possible and I also believe that our fight could be the best of night as we both have a lot at stake on September 8.”

LOUISA HAWTON

“I’m looking forward to fighting for my second world title, especially the WBC belt and thank you to my promoter Tom Loeffler and 360 Promotions for this opportunity. I’m proud to be half Filipina and look forward to being a part of this tremendous card, it’s ‘Bang Bang Lulu’ time. I’m looking lean and mean, now it’s time to get the green!”

TOM LOEFFLER

“Thanks very much to the fans and media for joining us this morning. We’re very grateful for the support of the Filipino community for this world championship fight between Donnie Nietes and Aston Palicte. This fight shows the quality of the Filipino boxers in the world today. Filipinos should be very proud to have the #1 and #2 world ranked fighters competing for the vacant WBO Super Flyweight Title. The Filipino community will have another world champion crowned on September 8 at the Forum. “

———————————————————————————-

Emanating from the “Fabulous” Forum in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 8 and televised on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT, SUPERFLY 3 is headlined by a 12-round WBC Super Flyweight Final Elimination Bout between former world champion JUAN FRANCISCO ‘El Gallo’ ESTRADA, (36-3-0, 25 KO’s), of Sonora, Mexico and two-time world title challenger FELIPE ‘Gallito’ ORUCUTA, (36-4-0, 30 KO’s), of Nicolas Romero, Mexico. Estrada vs. Orucuta is promoted in association with Zanfer Promotions.

Co-featured over 12-rounds for the vacant WBO Super Flyweight World Title, three-division world champion DONNIE ‘The Snake’ NIETES, (41-1-4, 23 KO’s), of Bacolod City, Philippines, moves up one division to face rival countryman and #2 world ranked challenger ‘Mighty’ ASTON PALICTE, (24-2-0, 20 KO’s) of Bago City, Philippines.

Opening the telecast, three-division world champion KAZUTO IOKA, (22-1-0, 13 KO’s), of Osaka, Japan, battles WBC Super Flyweight Silver Champion MCWILLIAMS ARROYO, (17-3-0, 14 KO’s), of Fajardo, Puerto Rico in a

10-round title bout.

Advance tickets for SUPERFLY 3, priced at $150, $100, $75, $50 and $25 can be purchased HERE. The Forum is located at 3900 W. Manchester Blvd, Inglewood CA 90305. Doors on the night of the event will open at 4:00 p.m.

SOCIAL MEDIA

#SUPERFLY3

Twitter

@GalloEstrafaOfi

@AstonPalicte

@HBOboxing

@theforum

@WBCBoxing

@Zanfernews

@ALAPromotions1

360 Boxing Promotions

Website, www.360promotions.us Facebook, @360BoxingPromos, Twitter, @360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1, Instagram, @360BoxingPromotions

• Ray Beltran 134.6 lbs vs. José Pedraza 134.4 lbs
(WBO Lightweight title – 12 Rounds)

• Isaac Dogboe 121 lbs vs. Hidenori Otake 121.4 lbs
(WBO Junior Featherweight title – 12 Rounds)

• Mikaela Mayer 129.4 lbs vs. Edina Kiss 128.6 lbs
(Super Featherweight – 6 Rounds)

• Arnold Barboza Jr. 141.6 lbs vs. Luis Solis 142 lbs
(Super Lightweight – 10 Rounds)

• Antonio Lozada Jr. 137 lbs vs. Hector Ambriz 136.6 lbs
(Lightweight – 8 Rounds)

• Francisco De Vaca 124.4 lbs vs. Jesus Serrano 126.8 lbs
(Featherweight – 8 Rounds)

• Carlos Castro 121.4 lbs vs. Diuhl Olguin 121.2 lbs
(Super Bantamweight – 8 Rounds)

• Robson Conceicao 129.8 lbs vs. Edgar Cantu 129 lbs
(Super Featherweight – 8 Rounds)

• Trevor McCumby 172.4 lbs vs. Jessie Nicklow 169.8 lbs
(Light Heavyweight – 8 Rounds)

• Sagadat Rakhmankul 150 lbs vs. Christian Aguirre 151.2 lbs
(Super Welterweight – 6 Rounds)

• Breenan Macias 116.6 lbs vs. Philip Adyaka 118.4 lbs
(Bantamweight – 4 Rounds)

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the premium multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International (DTCI) segment in conjunction with ESPN. ESPN+ offers fans two exclusive, original boxing programs The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays, weekly) and In This Corner (twice monthly). In addition to exclusive Top Rank boxing content, programming on ESPN+ includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, thousands of college sports events (including football, basketball and multiple other sports from more than 15 conferences), UFC (beginning in 2019), Grand Slam tennis, international and domestic rugby, cricket, new and exclusive documentary films and series, acclaimed studio shows and the full library of ESPN’s award-winning 30 for 30 films. Fans subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

Eddie Hearn, President of Matchroom Boxing USA:

“I am thrilled to be bringing this triple-header of World championship action to the TD Garden in Boston.

“We want to take major fight nights to major cities across America that haven’t had the chance to witness this great sport in the flesh, that’s why we’re in Chicago on October 6 and then in Boston on October 20 – we’re taking this great sport to great cities in great arenas like the TD Garden with the best night of boxing the city has seen.”

Billy Joe Saunders – Hertfordshire, England – 26 (12) – 0 – defending his WBO World Middleweight title against Demetrius Andrade

“This is such a big fight. The two main men at Middleweight at the moment is GGG and Canelo – and neither of them want to fight me or Demetrius. There’s a lot of smoke and mist in the division right now, and when it clears up I will be the man standing there.

“All jokes and trash talk aside, this is going to be a really good fight. Does anyone want to fight Demetrius? No. Does anyone want to fight me? No. We have to fight each other to prove who the number one guy is. Technically, we are the best two in the division, and the winner is going to be number one. I’m World champion, I’ve been more active, I’ve boxed the better opposition – but I have to beat this man.

“David Lemieux is a bum, a bum – he’s not worth talking about and I don’t take any credit from beating him. But I’ve been in with and easily handled World-class opposition – I’ve been in with Chris Eubank Jr and dealt with him, been in with Andy Lee and dealt with him, Willie Monroe had no heart or desire to win.

“There’s too much at stake in this fight to even think about losing – and I will prove that I am number one. If I turn up at my 100 per cent best, it’s good enough to beat him. He’s a great fighter and he’s been avoided, our paths have crossed and we have to fight. The winner is number one.”

Demetrius Andrade – Providence, Rhode Island – 25 (16) – 0 – challenging WBO World Middleweight champion Billy Joe Saunders.

“It’s an honour to be fighting at the TD Garden, we’re giving you the best fight in boxing this year, you have to be there.

“Billy Joe is a great fighter, an undefeated southpaw, he’s ugly looking, but he can fight – but your boy Demetrius Andrade always come through. Never have I failed to come out with the victory.

“It’s going to be an entertaining build up and I’m thrilled to be working with Eddie Hearn, he’s bringing boxing at the highest level out here – there’s no sport like boxing, and we’re showcasing it in Boston.

“We’re going to be in shape to do 12 rounds, I know I have the bigger dog inside me than Billy Joe, and I’m going to unleash that on him on October 20.”

Tevin Farmer – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – 26 (5) – 4 (2) – 1 – defending his IBF World Super-Featherweight title against James Tennyson.

“It’s been a long time coming for me to fight as a World champion. October 20, we’re coming to bring the pain. The last time I fought in Boston I fought Emanuel Gonzalez in June 2014 and it changed my life.

“I don’t know much about James but you don’t get to this level for no reason and I know he’s going to come to fight and try to beat Tevin Farmer. I’ve been one of the hottest fighters over the last few years, to beat me, he’s going to need to bring a knife and a gun because it’s not going to be easy – he needs to make sure he brings his A-game.”

James Tennyson – Belfast, Northern Ireland – 22 (18) – 2 (2) – challenging IBF World Super-Featherweight champion Tevin Farmer.

“It’s amazing to be involved in such a huge bill in a great city like Boston – and it’s going to be even better when I leave with the IBF World title.”

Katie Taylor – Bray, Ireland – 10 (5) – 0 – defending her WBA and IBF World Lightweight titles against Cindy Serrano.

“It’s great to be here, I love this city and it’s going to be like a homecoming fight for me with all the Irish fans living here. I want to thank Cindy for taking this fight, these are the types of fights that I absolutely relish, it’s going to be a really exciting clash alongside some brilliant fighters on the rest of the bill, I can’t wait.”

Cindy Serrano – Brooklyn, New York (born in Puerto Rico) – 27 (10) – 5 – 3 – challenging WBA and IBF World Lightweight champion Katie Taylor.

“Katie is a tremendous fighter and a hard worker so I know it’s going to be a hard fight, but a great fight. I am a great fighter too and not only can we both fight, we look good doing it – and we’re going to prove that on October.

Kid Galahad – Sheffield, England – 24 (15) – 0 – facing Toka Kahn Cleary in a final eliminator for the IBF World Featherweight title.

“We’re not here to play marbles, we’re here to take over. I’m over here to hurt this man, real bad. Me and Billy Joe Saunders are not joking – we’re coming to get big wins and in style.

Toka Kahn Cleary – Providence, Rhode Island – 25 (17) – 1 (1) – facing Kid Galahad in a final eliminator for the IBF World Featherweight title.

“It’s great to be on this huge bill alongside my big brother Demetrius Andrade and a lot of great fighters. I work very hard in the gym and I belong on the big stage, I promise you that after October 20, Toka Kahn Cleary is going to be fighting for a World title.”

Tickets for October 20 are on sale now from www.TDGarden.com

NEW YORK, AUGUST 24, 2018

“Rockin’ Fights” 32 is poised to have The Paramount rocking when two of the Paramount’s own warriors fight for their chance at earning the ABO Intercontinental Title. On September 21st, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ (Woodhaven, NY, 16-1-1 6KO’s) will look to make it a dominating ninth consecutive win at The Paramount, but will have his hands full against Huntington’s native son, JOHNNY “THE HITMAN” HERNANDEZ (Huntington, NY, 9-3 1KO). Hernandez is no stranger to The Paramount either, having fought at the venue ten times over his career. One guarantee is that boxing fans from across Long Island will be flooding in to get tickets to “Rockin’ Fights 32”.

Danny Gonzalez is coming off two dominating performances at The Paramount in both March and June. At “Rockin’ Fights 30”, Gonzalez stopped the very tough and durable veteran Juan Rodriguez in the 5th Round of an 8-round fight. Three months later at “Rockin’ Fights 31”, in his first main event at The Paramount, Danny unleashed the beast in front of a rowdy Long Island crowd, destroying tough veteran Justin Savi in the second round, after a vicious onslaught of power punches that ripped both the body and head of Savi. Danny has been in training camp with former world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia, sparring regularly with the World Champ to take his abilities to new levels in preparation for this exciting main event on September 21st.

Danny had this to say about his training camp, and what fans can expect come September 21st, “I’m excited to be the main event at The Paramount again and I am most definitely ready to face the home town, Long Island native Johnny Hernandez. I know it’s going be a sold-out arena and we are both certainly coming to fight and bring action to The Paramount As always, I am so grateful for these amazing opportunities I have received and moreover I am appreciative of the continued support I receive daily from my management team, promotor, coaches and fans and I am ready to put on a great showing September 21st at The Paramount.”

Johnny Hernandez is coming off a terrific victory in his previous fight at “Rockin’ Fights 31” in June, against Juan Rodriguez. Johnny, is known as a ‘crowd-pleaser’ as he is always eager to trade with anyone at the center of the ring; a quality which earned him his nickname, “The Hitman”. However, in his last fight, Johnny showed an enhanced tactical offense, picking his spots to land shots to both the head and body of Rodriguez. The two battled through six-rounds, in a gritty, classic “Rockin’ Fights” match, that Johnny won via unanimous decision. Hernandez brings it every time he steps in the ring. The Paramount is a short walk from his house, literally in his backyard in Huntington, so a strong following of “Hitman” fans will be in attendance to propel Johnny, urging him on to come out victorious, with the ABO Championship in hand. This bout will be Johnny Hernandez’s first main event at The Paramount.

Johnny had this to say about his upcoming title bout, “A lion doesn’t have to prove that it’s a threat … you already know what the lion is capable of. This fight means everything to me, it can revive my career or end it so a lot is riding on this win”

JOE DEGUARIDA, CEO of Star Boxing, had this to say about the main event on September 21st, “This is what makes Boxing so special. Two local fighters, fighting in front of a packed arena of hometown fans. A win for either Danny or Johnny is a major step towards the ultimate goal of moving on for a world title chance, but both are winners for being able to compete in a fight like this. “Rockin’ Fights” always brings a great crowd, and on September 21st, the fans will get to see another truly special night.”

You can watch both Danny Gonzalez and Johnny Hernandez last fights by clicking below:

Watch Danny Gonzalez vs Justin Savi from Rockin’ Fights 31 HERE.

Watch Johnny Hernandez vs Juan Rodriguez from Rockin’ Fights 31 HERE.
GET YOUR TICKETS TO ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 32 TODAY!
FIGHT: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST, 2018
$50, $60, $100, $150, $200
BUY TICKETS HERE!
FACTS:
Rockin’ Fights 32 on September 21st pits two local warriors in, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ fighting at The Paramount for the ninth time, against, JOHNNY “THE HITMAN” HERNANDEZ who will be in his first main event and eleventh bout at The Paramount, for the ABO Intercontinental Title.

*If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email us at TonyPalmieri@StarBoxing.com
TICKETS:
Tickets are on sale now at The Paramount Box Office (631) 673-7300 or Ticketmaster by clicking HERE, or by calling 1 (800) 745-3000 or Star Boxing (718) 823-2000 or www.starboxing.com. Tickets prices are $50, $60, $100, $150, $200.
PAST RELEASE:
Rockin Fights 32 Announcement

ABOUT THE ABO:
The American Boxing Organization is an American company based in Illinois. This grass root boxing organization is the only one in the world with former world champions that sit on the board of directors. The ABO’s mission is to be the stepping stone American Championship title for inspiring fighters in the America’s. Our vision is to provide our champions with information that will make our champions life after boxing fruitful and inspiring.
SOCIAL MEDIA:
For more information visit www.StarBoxing.com, follow along on Facebook at www.facebook.com/starboxing, follow along on Instagram at @StarBoxing, @TheParamountNY, or on Twitter @StarBoxing, or @TheParamountNY.

Dina Thorslund (11-0, 5 KOs) and Yessica Munoz (17-1-1, 5 KOs) both made weight today ahead of their WBO Female World Super Bantamweight Championship clash tomorrow night at the Struer Energi Park in Denmark.

Thorslund, who claimed the interim WBC World title with a unanimous pints win over former two-time World Champion Alicia Ashley in March, returns to her hometown arena to meet the tough Mexican Munoz for the WBO crown.

The undefeated 24 year-old has predicted an all action affair against ‘La Gacela’, who says she will drag Thorslund into a war before defeating her and taking the WBO belt back to Agua Prieta.

WBO Female World Super Bantamweight Championship:
Dina Thorslund: 55,1 kg
Yessica Munoz: 54,7 kg

Former European Champion Dennis Ceylan returns on the undercard following a shock defeat to Jesus Sanchez alongside top Danish talents Kem Ljungqust, Frederik Hede Jensen, Mikkel Nielsen and Adam Bashanov.

Featherweight – 8 Rounds:
Dennis Ceylan: 58 kg
Levan Tsiklauri: 57,8 kg

Heavyweight – 6 Rounds:
Kem Ljungquist: 104,3 kg
David Vyletel: 109 kg

Super Featherweight – 4 Rounds:
Frederik Hede Jensen: 59,3 kg
Andrei Nurchynski: will weigh-in later today.

Super Welterweight – 6 Rounds:
Mikkel Nielsen: 69,7 kg
Nikolozi Gviniashvili: 69,8 kg

Super Middleweight – 6 Rounds:
Adam Bashanov: 78 kg
Petr Chmelik: 77,3 kg

Super Middleweight – 4 Rounds:
Haris Dzindo: 76,3 kg
Gary Abajyan: 74,3 kg

Super Middleweight – 6 Rounds:
Xhek Paskali: 78,1 kg
Bernard Donfack: 77,5 kg

Lightweight – 6 Rounds:
Joanna Ekedahl: 61,2 kg
Alina Samsonova: 61,1 kg

Cruiserweight – 4 Rounds:
Kent Erik Badstad: 90 kg
Bohdan Zlyvko: 91 kg

All the action will be available to watch live on Viaplay, TV3 Max and TV3+ in Denmark and Sport1 in Germany. Limited tickets are still available via www.ticketmaster.dk.

(BOSTON, MA) Tevin Farmer will defend his IBF World Super-Featherweight title against James Tennyson at the TD Garden in Boston on October 20, live on DAZN.

Farmer landed the title with a landslide points win in Billy Dib’s Australian backyard in August, gaining redemption in the process after missing out on the crown in a controversial split decision loss against Kenichi Ogawa in Las Vegas in December.

The Philadelphian ace puts the belt on the line for the first time against Tennyson in Boston on a stacked bill, with the dangerous Irish puncher fresh from ripping the European title from Martin J. Ward with a stunning stoppage win from off the canvas in London in May.

Tennyson’s first World title tilt could derail Farmer’s plans to meet the other champions in the 126lbs division – with WBA king Gervonta Davis top of his wishlist after penning a co-promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing USA and DiBella Entertainment – and Farmer knows he must be on top of his game to keep his belt and move onto the unification bouts he desires.

“I’ve worked really hard to get to this point and now we’re going to get these big fights – but I have to take care of business with James Tennyson first,” said Farmer. “James is a proud, tenacious and worthy challenger for my belt.

“I know James is going to be hungry to take my title, but there’s no way I’m going to let it go – I want to prove that I am the king in this division. I don’t need to fight the other champions – I want to fight them, no talk, I want to handle my business and I want these guys to meet me, I want Gervonta.

“Knowing that I am fighting three times in a year is great – I’m going to be busy and that’s awesome, that’s what all fighters want – I’m so thankful to Lou, Eddie and DAZN for this.”

“I feel that I’m ready for my shot and that I’ll take the world title back to Belfast,” said Tennyson.

“A lot of fighters, when they take a loss in their career they think it’s at an end when they’ve gone undefeated and been at the top but my career shows that a loss isn’t the end.

“I’ve progressed, I’ve moved on and I’m ranked number one with the WBA, European and Commonwealth champion. You just have to keep pushing forward, keep digging deep. Anybody can come from a loss and come back and push right back up to the top of the ladder.”

Farmer’s clash with Tennyson is part of a huge bill in Boston with three world title bouts on the slate.

England’s Billy Joe Saunders defends his WBO World Middleweight title against Rhode Island’s Demetrius Andrade and Katie Taylor puts her WBA and IBF World Lightweight straps on the line against Cindy Serrano.

PHILADELPHIA, PENN. / ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 24, 2018) – Undefeated featherweight sensation Ruben Villa (12-0, 5 KOs) checked in at a ready 125.8 lbs while his opponent Jose Santos Gonzalez (23-6, 13 KOs) weighed in at 125.9 lbs for their eight-round battle that will take place tonight at Omega Products International in Corona, California.

“We’ll be careful not to fall into any traps,” said Villa during Thursday’s weigh in. “I think he’ll want to fight one specific way and we’ll show him multiple looks to get him off balance.”

Villa is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: Locked n’ Loaded via Thompson Boxing Facebook page and ThompsonBoxing.com.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Steve Kim providing expert, color commentary.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

Photo by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing

After being stepped over as Joe Joyce’s next opponent, Philadelphia fan favorite Joey Dawejko is calling out the highly touted UK-based heavyweight for taking the easy road.

Since turning professional, Joyce, the outspoken 2016 Olympic Super-Heavyweight Silver Medal Winner and now Commonwealth (British Empire) Heavyweight Champion, has made a habit of publicly calling out the division’s top contenders and champions.

But Dawejko says Joyce’s antics may be just for show, and in reality, his representatives are very protective of their charge.

Dawejko (19-5-4, 11 KOs) says he was offered and accepted the opportunity to face Joyce (5-0, 5 KOs) on the undercard of former welterweight champions Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter’s Saturday, September 8, showdown at the Barclays Center – only to find out Joyce had instead chosen to face Ohio’s Devin Vargas.

Dawejko has spent his professional career as a respected gatekeeper in the division. The 28-year-old has had competitive battles with several of the division’s best and even gave top contender Jarrell Miller the only blot on his undefeated record when he held him to a draw in 2013.

Vargas was a successful amateur boxer, but the former Olympian has sputtered as a professional. He has lost five of his last eight fights and is coming off a first-round knockout loss.

“I got the call the other day from my manager saying we had an offer to fight him and we accepted,” explained Dawejko, “then I found out he took an easier fight. I’m kind of pissed off about it because it was a good opportunity for me. They chose the safe route because they’re definitely protecting him. They talk a good game, but at the end of the day they just want easy fights.”

Dawejko says exposing Joyce would have given him the chance to finally break through to the upper echelon.

“They’re building this guy like he’s something special and he’s not. I see nothing special about him. He has size, but that doesn’t matter. I don’t think he’s as good as people are making him out to be. I could definitely beat him. He’s big and slow and gets hit a lot and his defense isn’t there. I know I could beat him.”

Not giving up, Dawejko wants Joyce to know he’d be happy to face him in his next fight… if Joyce isn’t too timid.

“If he really wants to challenge himself, step up and fight me. I‘m ready to go at any time. I’ll fight him any day of the week.”

About Greg Cohen Promotions

One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

Founder and CEO Greg Cohen has been involved with professional boxing in various capacities since the late 1980s, honing his craft and establishing himself as a shrewd international boxing businessman.

Distinguished by his ability to spot and develop raw talent, Cohen first made promotional headlines for his expert guidance of, among many others, former WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout, who Cohen helped guide from unknown New Mexico prospect to elite pay-per-view level superstar.

In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney.

Cohen currently promotes undefeated WBO NABO Heavyweight Champion a top contender Jarrell Miller, top-rated middleweight contender Robert Brant, and former WBO NABO Lightweight Champion and world-rated contender Mason Menard, among many others.

Greg Cohen Promotions has hosted world-class boxing events in the finest venues throughout the United States and the world and has also proudly provided talent and/or content for several television networks including CBS Sports Network, HBO, Showtime, ESPN, NBC Sports Network, CBS Sports Network, MSG and FOX Sports Net.

For more information, visit gcpboxing.com. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GCPBoxing. Twitter: @GCPBoxing.

Tampa, FL (August 24, 2018) – Connor “The Kid” Coyle was forced to withdraw from his October 6 bout as part of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions’ “Night of Champions” card in St. Petersburg, FL.

During his training camp in Ireland, Coyle’s back began to swell and cause him pain. The unbeaten 28-year-old battled through the back problems and continued training. Unfortunately, the pain got worse and aggressively spread throughout his body.

Coyle then checked into a local hospital. Doctors believe he has an inflammatory infection and ran a number of tests. In the interim, Coyle must refrain from training during the next 6 weeks.

“I’d like to sincerely apologize to my fans for being unable to compete,” said Coyle, who is 8-0 and coming off a dominant stoppage victory in June. “This is a bump in the road and I’ll be back more motivated to focus on another fight soon.”

Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions believes Coyle will come back strong when the time is right but is most concerned about his fighter’s current health.

“I feel terrible about this entire situation because Connor is like a son to me,” said Caliguire. “This is extremely unfortunate and Connor needs to get the proper rest to ensure his body is ready whenever he decides he’s healthy enough to return to training.”

Coyle was scheduled to headline for the ABF Continental Americas middleweight championship and a new main event will be announced shortly.

For more information on Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, visit Firefistboxing.net.

Corpus Christi, Texas………. The Corpus Christi Hooks Baseball Team, the double-A affiliate for the Houston Astros, along with Texas boxing promotion company, CCC Entertainment in conjunction with Keeppunching Entertainment are bring big time boxing to WHATABURGER FIELD September 22nd.

The new promotional company is headed by Clayton Campbell, a medical office manager for his father, Dr. Charles Campbell and Dr. Campbell’s wife, Mary. The mother/son partnership is looking to add excitement to the boxing world in one of the boxing hubs of Texas. Dr. Campbell and his other son, Colin, work as managers of professional boxers. Kerry Daigle of Keeppunching Entertainment in Louisiana brings his 45 years of experience in boxing to the city of Corpus to work with this illustrious crew. Dr. Campbell and his wife, Mary, are well known philanthropists in the state of Texas.

The main event will be a heavyweight showdown of undefeated heavyweights fighting for the Texas Heavyweight Championship. Justin “Jawbreaker” Jones, (21 wins, 0 losses, 2 draws) will face Cuban heavyweight, Robert Alphonso, 16-0, who now lives in Texas. Jones is trained by Houston based Termite Watkins and former WBC heavyweight champion of the world, Oliver McCall. Alphonso is trained by the current WBC heavyweight champion’s (Deontay Wilder) trainer, Jay Deas.

Two undefeated heavyweights with outstanding records facing each other is not something normal. Generally, you don’t see this unless the undefeated fighters have 8 or less fights before taking chances against another undefeated boxer. This is a new era in heavyweight boxing. The best fight to be made in heavyweight boxing with undefeated prospects. The right fight at the right time in the right city because, as we all know, heavyweight boxing is ‘hot’ right now.

This is a step up for both heavyweights and is expected to be a hotly contested match that will feature heavyweight punches blazing into the night on Whataburger field each looking to land a ‘home run’ punch. This is heavyweight boxing of yesteryear where the contestants are more interested in their legacy than fighting lesser opposition. It’s a ‘set the stage’ fight that will exceed expectations for the fans of Texas and surrounding states. Each will be elevated to another level. These are not 40+ year old boxers but instead boxers in their prime looking for a place among the best and Corpus Christi (along with boxing in general) will benefit. Heavyweight boxing is exciting….it’s well…it’s thriving…and it’s happening right here in America.

A perfect storm before the announcement of Deontay Wilder fighting Tyson Fury at the end of this year, undefeated fighting undefeated.

The co-main event will feature a 10 round NABF Lightweight Female Championship fight featuring the ever popular and crowd favorite Selina “The Aztec Queen” Barrios, the undefeated sensation from San Antonio, Texas facing her third undefeated fighter in a row by the name of Patricia Juarez of Colorado. Juarez is the sister of 5 time world champion, Mariana “Barbie” Juarez. Barrios brother is Mario Barrios, the undefeated super lightweight ( 22-0) preparing for a world title shot in 2019. This is the perfect mesh of styles where Juarez has won all of her fights by unanimous decision and is considered a superb boxer while Barrios is known for cement in both fists and a warrior.

Ernest Reyna, a local cruiserweight, will be featured on the undercard along with undefeated sensation Luis Acosta from Houston, Texas who has 6 knockouts in 6 fights. Joining these two will be Neller Obrigon, an undefeated light heavyweight at 8-0 along with undefeated welterweight Terry Chapwood of Arkansas at 7-0.

There will be a total of 42 rounds scheduled with 7 undefeated fighters testing their skills against tough competition. Which ones are going to “knock it out of the park?”

Matchmaker Reginal McGowan of Dallas mentioned, “I haven’t worked a show with this much talent in a long time and with everyone having their undefeated records at stake against tough opposition. It’s going to be a night to remember and all happening in a ballpark. How cool is that?”

Dr. Charles Campbell and Colin Campbell, co-managers of the two main events in Jones and Barrios are confident their fighters will be victorious.

“ We want to show the world that these two boxers are ready for the best in the world and we know they will both step their game up to show everyone they are here to bring home a world championship to Corpus,” states Colin.

Jay Deas, trainer of Alphonso, comments, “We know we are in a tough fight with Jones but then again to become the best you have to beat some of the best. That is why we are coming into Corpus to challenge Justin Jones.”

Kerry Daigle of Keeppunching Entertainment is ecstatic about this team being put together to bring big time boxing to the City of Pugilists, Corpus Christi. “Our team with CCC Entertainment, the Corpus Christi Hooks, and the Houston Astros look to make a mark in Texas with high quality shows. This will be entertainment at it’s best. The Hooks and Astros know how to put together a first class event. It’s the beginning of an exciting exclusive partnership between CCC Entertainment, Corpus Christi Hooks, Houston Astros, and Keeppunching Entertainment.

By Norm Frauenheim-

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Isaac Dogboe has royalty in his blood and a warrior in his heart. He’s also got quick wit. It’s an intriguing combination, a mix of charisma and danger. The royalty is said to be in his personal history.

He can trace his ancestry to a ruling family of kings and warlords in a central state of his native Ghana. It’s a good story and better nickname, Royal Storm. But it’s Dogboe’s hands and feet, both of which are as quick as the evident wit, that are creating a buzz about the sudden emergence of a potential star in a sport always in need of another one.

Dogboe (19-0, 13 KOs) is a super-bantamweight with global ambitions, or at least another world crown or two. First, he has to defend his first belt, the World Boxing Organization’s 122-pound title against Hidenori Otake (31-2-3, 14 KOs) Saturday at Gila River Arena on an ESPN card (7:30 p.m. PT/10:30 p.m. ET) featuring WBO lightweight champion Ray Beltran against Jose Pedraza.

In Otake, Dogboe faces a 37-year-old Japanese fighter, who has some wisdom to go along with scars collected over a long career. During a news conference Thursday, Otake was asked how he would fight, and perhaps what he would fight for.

“I’m going to fight for my soul,’’ Otake said through an interpreter.

He’ll have to fight for more than that, Dogboe suggested when it was his turn at the microphone.

“He says he’s going to be fighting for his soul,’’ said Dogboe, who moved to London when he was a kid. “I have no need for his soul. I didn’t create him. I’m only going to knock him out.’’

Otake is still pursuing his first title. He lost a shot at the World Boxing Association version in 2014, falling to Scott Quigg in a unanimous decision in the UK in 2014.

“My opponent is physically strong,’’ Dogboe said. “I’ve been in that same position to fight for a world title. He’s been at his best for a long time and has a good record, so you can’t take him lightly.

“But one thing I say is, 37 years old – I know he’s very strong and in great condition, a man. But if by 37 you’re not a world champion and you think you’re coming to beat me and take a title God has assigned to me, there’s no way that is happening.”

The 23-year-old Dogboe’s swagger and high-voltage energy were on display last April when he got up from a knockdown and scored an 11th-round stoppage of Jessie Magdaleno for his first major title.

It was then that his promoter, Top Rank’s Bob Arum, saw the qualities that could be the latest in the great tradition of Ghana boxing. Arum sees Dogboe and sees another Azumah Nelson, a great featherweight throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s.

“They called Azumah The Professor,’’ Arum said as he turned and looked at Dogboe. “You are following the footsteps of the great Azumah Nelson.’’

Dogboe, already a royal, bowed in thanks.

GLENDALE, Ariz. (Aug. 23, 2018) – The stakes are high for WBO lightweight world champion Ray Beltran and challenger José “Sniper” Pedraza, with the winner expected to fight WBA lightweight champion Vasiliy Lomachenko later this year. Beltran and Pedraza met at the final press conference for the next edition of “Top Rank on ESPN”, which will take place Saturday evening at the Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona (10:30 ET/7:30 PST).

In the co-feature, Isaac “Royal Storm” Dogboe will make the first defense of his WBO junior featherweight title against Japanese challenger Hidenori Otake. And, in a six-round super featherweight special attraction, 2016 U.S. Olympian Mikaela Mayer will make her long-awaited ESPN network debut against former world title challenger Edina Kiss.

Here is what they had to say.

Ray Beltran

“Now I have the belt and people see me as a champion. But before that, I already felt like a champion. It’s good to get recognition from the boxing world, but like I said before, I don’t feel different. Things have changed around me, but I’m still the same guy. I’m a contender. I’m the underdog. Once you get the world title, there are new challenges. You’re always looking for the best challenges out there, and now I have a very important fight against a very difficult and tough opponent. In my mind, I don’t get overconfident. I get confident, but not overconfident.”

“In 1996, I came to the United States illegally. I did it, not because I wanted to, but because I had to. Thanks to that, I’m making my dream come true. I want to dedicate this fight to all of the immigrants all over the world, especially to my Mexican people. I represent them with so much pride. Just to show the world that we don’t come to commit no crime. We come here to get a better future for our family. I represent that. I represent the truth.”

José Pedraza

“It means a lot to me. This is the second opportunity I’m getting for a world title. I really want to win this world title because I want to bring happiness to Puerto Rico after what happened with Hurricane Maria.”

“It will be a lot of emotion and happiness for me when they say, ‘and the new champion’. but I don’t like to get ahead of myself. One step at a time, but if I win the title, it’s going to mean a lot to Puerto Rico. It’s going to bring happiness to my people.”

Isaac Dogboe

“First and foremost, I give all the glory to the almighty God for bringing me here safely and making me who I am today. Otake is a great guy, and I can’t wait to get back on ESPN. It’s a big platform for myself and also a great platform to showcase my talent once again. I want to say thank you to Bob Arum and Top Rank promotions and all the staff for putting this show together. It’s great. It is always a huge platform. Like I said, Otake is a great guy. Physically, he’s strong. This is his second world title challenge, his second opportunity, and we know he’s going to come out fighting. He’s going to come out guns blazing. But, you know, like we always say, we don’t have to get ready, we’re always prepared. Everything he brings to the table, we have an answer for it. Come Saturday night, you don’t have to stay at home. Everyone has to come down to the Gila River Arena. It’s going to be fireworks because there’s no way that something we worked so hard for is going to slip through our hands. He says he’s going to be fighting for his soul. I have no need for his soul because I did not create him. I just want to knock him out on Saturday night and retain my title.”

“Hidenori is very tough, and he’s a credit to Japan. He’s one of the guys who’s making Japan boxing rise. At this moment, he’s a stumbling block that’s in my way to get to a unification fight. We are looking to go out there Saturday night and put on a masterclass performance and look forward to unify the division, God willing. With Top Rank and Bob Arum, we can hopefully fight at the end of the year or early next year in a unification fight. Hard work never stops. Right now, our main target is to take care of Hidenori Otake.”

Hidenori Otake

“First of all, I am so very happy to be here. I want to thank Bob Arum and everyone at Top Rank for giving me this amazing opportunity. As you may know, in my first world title match in England {against Scott Quigg}, I lost. As happy as I am, taking that into consideration, I have trained very hard to make the most of this opportunity.”

Mikaela Mayer

“It’s been an amazing year. I didn’t really know what to expect going into the pros. I wanted to fight often. I knew coming out of the amateurs {where} I was fighting regularly that the worst thing that could happen would be not getting fights as a pro. I think Top Rank has moved me really well. I’m extremely happy. Seven fights in one year is amazing, more than we expected to have. That’s great, and this is a huge opportunity, not just for my career, but for women’s boxing. It’s time that women get put on the big stage, so thank you Top Rank for believing in me and trusting in women’s boxing. I’m ready to put on a good show.”

On getting the KO: “I want knockouts because I want people to be excited to see my fights. Not only that, but I know I have the power to stop these girls. Me and my team have been working really hard on the small changes from the amateurs to the pros. They’re small, but very important. A big one is me sitting down on my punches and not pulling out. I plan on taking it to her. I’m tall and I’m lean, but coach Al {Mitchell} is going to get me fighting on the inside. I plan on backing her up.”

ESPN, 10:30 p.m. ET
Ray Beltran (champion) vs. José Pedraza (challenger), 12 rounds, WBO lightweight title

Mikaela Mayer vs. Edina Kiss, 6 rounds, super featherweight

Isaac Dogboe (champion) vs. Hidenori Otake (challenger), 12 rounds, WBO junior featherweight title

ESPN+, 6:30 p.m. ET
Arnold Barboza Jr. vs. Luis Solis, 10 rounds, super lightweight

Antonio Lozada Jr. vs. Hector Ambriz, 10/8 rounds, lightweight

Francisco De Vaca vs. Jesus Serrano, 10/8 rounds, featherweight

Robson Conceicao vs. Edgar Cantu, 8 rounds, super featherweight

Trevor McCumby vs. Jessie Nicklow, 8/6 rounds, light heavyweight

Carlos Castro vs. Diuhl Olguin, 10/8 rounds, super bantamweight

Sagadat Rakhmankulov vs. Christian Aguirre, 8/6 rounds, super welterweight

Breenan Macias vs. Philip Adyaka, 4 rounds, bantamweight

Tickets to this world championship doubleheader, priced at $125, $75, $50, and $25, not including applicable fees, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at the Gila River Arena Box Office, by phone at 800.745.3000, or online at www.gilariverarena.com.

Use the hashtags #BeltranPedraza, #DogboeOtake, and #MayerKiss to join the conversation on social media.

MINNEAPOLIS, MN (August 23, 2018) – Highly decorated 19-year old amateur standout, Omar “El Relampago” Juarez, is eager to show the world his talent when he makes his pro debut tomorrow on the PBC prelims on FS1 card in Minneapolis, MN. Juarez, who hails from Brownsville, TX, will face Devon Hostler (3-8, 3 KOs) in a 4-round super-lightweight bout.

“Making my pro debut on national television is a dream come true and I’m very grateful for this opportunity,” said Omar Juarez. “I’ve worked my whole life for this moment and now its time to show the world what I’m made of. I plan to be electrifying when I step in the ring with Hostler.”

With over 120 amateur fights under his belt, Juarez stands 5’9″ and has a tremendous boxing IQ to go along with lightning fast hand speed. He started boxing at age 8 and won numerous state and national titles. Juarez, a boxer-puncher, who often switches stances during his fights, feels his style is unique to others in the sport.

“I like to make adjustments on the fly and being able to switch from southpaw to conventional is an advantage I have over my opponents,” Juarez continued. “I feel my style is like no other in the sport right now and it will be on display this Friday.”

Juarez is also very popular in his hometown of Brownsville TX, where he often does motivational speeches at schools in the area. His following in his hometown is quite fascinating.

“Back home I made the decision to start speaking at schools and establish myself as a positive role model to the kids in my area.” Juarez continued. “I will have a lot of fans tuning in this Friday when I make my pro debut. I really want to dedicate this first fight to all my people back home in Brownsville who have supported me over the years. I’m thankful for their support.”

Juarez is trained his father Rudy Juarez and co-trainer Rick Nunez. Together they will be working Omar’s corner in Minneapolis.

Coverage of prelims begins at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT live on FS1 and FOX Deportes on Friday, August 24 from the Armory in Minneapolis.

PHILADELPHIA / LOS ANGELES – AUGUST 23, 2018 – Middleweight Brandon Adams will be featured on The Contender that will begin Tomorrow Night, August 24th on EPIX® at 10 PM ET/PT.

Adams, 17-2 with 12 knockouts fights out of Los Angles, California was finalist in the Boxcino Middleweight and Junior Middleweight tournaments in 2014 and 2015.

Adams will attempt to come through in the 16-man competition that in previous years has sprung fighters like Sergio Mora and Cornelius Bundrage to world titles.

About MGM Television
MGM Television is a leading producer and global distributor of premium content for television and digital platforms, with distribution rights to original productions and a robust catalog of television episodes and feature film titles including such premiere entertainment franchises as James Bond, Rocky, Stargate and The Hobbit trilogy. Current scripted and unscripted projects include Fargo (FX); Vikings (HISTORY); The Handmaid’s Tale (Hulu); Get Shorty (EPIX); The Voice (NBC); Survivor (CBS); Shark Tank (ABC); Teen Wolf (MTV); Steve Harvey’s FUNDERDOME (ABC); Beat Shazam (FOX); Signed (VH1); Lucha Underground (The El Rey Network); and through its distribution entity, Orion TV Productions, the syndicated daytime courtroom series Lauren Lake’s Paternity Court and Couples Court with The Cutlers. In addition, MGM owns Evolution Media, the innovative unscripted television producers of The Real Housewives of Orange County, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Vanderpump Rules, Vanderpump Rules: Jax and Brittany Take Kentucky, and Sweet Home Oklahoma (Bravo); Botched (E!); Bug Juice (Disney Channel) and Growing Up Supermodel (Lifetime).MGM’s television programming regularly airs in more than 100 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

About EPIX
EPIX, an MGM company, is a premium pay television network, delivering the latest movie releases and biggest classic film franchises, plus original programming including series, documentaries, and comedy specials – all available on TV, on demand, online and across devices. Launched in October 2009, EPIX became profitable in its first year of existence and is now available nationwide to 70 million homes through cable, telco, satellite and emerging digital distribution platforms. A pioneer in the development and proliferation of “TV Everywhere,” EPIX was the first premium network to provide multi-platform access to its content online at EPIX.com and to launch on Xbox, PlayStation®, Android phones and tablets, and Roku® players. EPIX is also available across hundreds of consumer devices including Apple TV, iPhone and iPad, Amazon Fire TV, TiVo, Chromecast, and Android TV, delivering more movies than any other network with thousands of titles available for streaming. For more information about EPIX, go to www.EPIX.com. Follow EPIX on Twitter @EpixHd (http://www.twitter.com/EpixHD) and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EPIX), YouTube (http://youtube.com/EPIX), Instagram (http://instagram.com/EPIX) and Snapchat @EPIXTV.

About Paramount Television
Paramount Television is a leading studio, developing and financing a wide range of cutting-edge and entertaining television content across all media platforms for distribution worldwide. The studio’s robust slate includes Tom Clancy’s “Jack Ryan” (Amazon), “13 Reasons Why” (Netflix), “Maniac” (Netflix), “Shooter” (USA), “Berlin Station” (EPIX), “The Alienist” (TNT), “The Haunting of Hill House” (Netflix), “Catch-22” (Hulu), “First Wives Club” (Paramount Network), “Looking for Alaska” (Hulu), “Briarpatch” (USA), “Boomerang” (BET), “Shantaram” (Apple), “Dream Team” (BET), “The Contender” (EPIX) and “Snow Crash” (Amazon), among others. Paramount Television is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment. PPC is a subsidiary of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a global content company with premier television, film and digital entertainment brands.

ONTARIO, CA. (August 23, 2018) – Expect fireworks when former welterweight champion “Vicious” Victor Ortiz meets hard-hitting former title challenger John Molina Jr. on Sunday, September 30 in the 12-round main event of Premier Boxing Champions on FS1 and FOX Deportes live from Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California.

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature a stacked lineup of undercard attractions leading up to the action-packed main event.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Ringstar Sports, go on sale tomorrow, August 24 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.

Ortiz (32-6-3, 25 KOs) is an all-action boxer-puncher who comes to fight and is always in exciting battles. The 31-year-old southpaw has one of the best resumes of anyone in the welterweight division having been in against Floyd Mayweather, Andre Berto twice, Lamont Peterson, Luis Collazo and Marcos Maidana. Ortiz, who was born in Garden City, Kansas and now lives in Ventura, California, is coming off a majority draw against Devon Alexander in February.

“We’ve known each other a long time and we’re both always in exciting battles, so fans should expect nothing less on September 30,” said Ortiz. “I had a broken eye socket from an injury in the second round of the Alexander fight, but I’m feeling 100 percent now. I’m ready to take what is rightfully mine, and that’s another world title down the road. It’s going to be a way from round one and I can’t wait.”

Molina (30-7, 24 KOs) has never backed down from a challenge and has been in the ring with some of the best boxers from lightweight to welterweight during his career. The 35-year-old from Covina, California beat a fierce Ruslan Provodnikov by unanimous decision in 2016. Another standout battle from Molina’s career saw him drop former welterweight champion Lucas Matthysse twice before losing on an 11th round knockout. In his last fight he scored a fourth round TKO victory over Ivan Redkach in a back-and-forth bout from December on FS1.

“I respect Victor and everything he’s accomplished in this game, but I know that I have the tools to overcome everything he does,” said Molina. “Everyone knows that I’m in it to win it. We’re both going to be ready to mix it up and throw bombs. There is no way that I see this fight going the distance. It’s going to come down to heart and I’m going to be there until final bell.”

“Victor Ortiz vs. John Molina Jr. has war written all over it and should be another in a long line of memorable battles featuring these Southern California fan-favorites,” said Richard Schaefer, Chairman and CEO of Ringstar Sports. “These two men are known for leaving it all in the ring and giving the fans incredible action from the opening bell. I have no doubt that this will be another outstanding showdown, with the winner setting themselves up for even bigger things in the star-studded welterweight division. We’re excited to bring this matchup, plus a jam-packed undercard, to the fans in Ontario and watching live on FS1 and FOX Deportes.”

“This is a true crossroads battle between two hardnosed veterans who have fought almost every welterweight of note in the last decade,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “The one thing you can be certain of when you get Victor Ortiz and John Molina Jr. in the ring is that a fight will break out. This match should be highly entertaining for the fans at Citizens Business Bank Arena and those who tune in on FS1 and FOX Deportes on September 30.”

# # #

Fans can live stream the fights on the FOX Sports app, available in English or Spanish through the FS1 or FOX Deportes feeds. The fights are available on desktop at FOXSportsGO.com and through the app store, or connected devices including Apple TV, Android TV, Fire TV, Xbox One and Roku. In addition, all programs are also available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and www.foxdeportes.com.
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @Ringstar, @FS1, @FOXDeportes and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, and www.facebook.com/foxdeportes. Highlights available at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on FS1 & FOX Deportes is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Las Vegas (August 23, 2018) – 4-Time world champion Abner Mares has confirmed that he will appear, and hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 4th Annual Box Fan Expo that will take place on Saturday September 15, 2018 from 10am to 5pm, during Mexican Independence Day weekend. The Boxing Expo will also coincide with the highly anticipated rematch between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez vs Gennady ‘GGG’ Golovkin, that will take place later that evening at the T-Mobile Arena.

Mares will make his 2nd appearance at this years’ Expo, at the adidas booth from 10.30am to 12pm where he will be signing gloves, photos and have merchandise for fans to enjoy. Boxing fans will also have a great opportunity to take pictures with this Boxing Star, who recently had an amazing performance this past June versus Leo Santa Cruz in a very close and competitive rematch at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. For more info on adidas boxing go to: (www.usboxing.net)

Mares joins Mikey Garcia, James Toney, Mayweather Promotions, WBC, WBA, Thomas Hearns, David Benavidez, José Benavidez, Badou Jack, Mia St.John, Jessie Vargas, Erik Morales and Fernando Vargas as an early commitment to this year’s Box Fan Expo.

About Abner Mares
Mares who was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico is a Mexican-American professional boxer who formerly held the WBA (Regular) Featherweight Championship Title. Mares is a four-time world champion in three weight classes. Some of Mares most notable and exciting fights were against top level fighters, such as Vic Darchinyan, Joseph Agbeko, Anselmo Moreno, Daniel Ponce De Leon, Jhonny Gonzalez, Leo Santa Cruz and Jesus Cuellar from whom he won the WBA title on December 10th, 2016. His next Mega fight is rumored to be facing the undefeated and Super featherweight world champion Gervonta Davis.

About Box Fan Expo
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. Fans can expect to experience various interactions such as autograph and photos sessions, FaceOff with your favorite boxers, pictures with the Ring Card Girls, Live DJ Music, chance to win prizes, purchase merchandise and memorabilia from different booths Exhibitors, “ALL UNDER ONE ROOF”. You won’t want to miss this must-attend Expo!

Box Fan Expo has been a huge success with fans and boxing industry people. Many boxing stars have attended the last three Expos such as Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, Roberto Duran, Tommy Hearns, Marco Antonio Barrera, Roy Jones Jr., Marcos Maidana, 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.Johns, Leo Santa Cruz, Badou Jack, Terry Norris , Riddick Bowe , Earnie Shavers, Leon Spinks, Danny Jacobs, Abner Mares, 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

Throughout the next few weeks 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 Us:
Telephone number: (514) 572-7222 or Las Vegas Number (702) 997-1927

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

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

Follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter and Instagram at: @BoxFanExpo

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

Philadelphia, PA (August 23, 2018) -Brandon Robinson will now take on veteran Ernest Amuzu in the eight-round super middleweight main event that will headline a great night of action on Friday, September 14th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The nine-bout card is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Robinson of Philadelphia has a record of 10-1 with seven knockouts.

The 30 year-old Robinson has won 10 straight fights, and has quickly established himself as one of the top super middleweight prospects in the country. The 2 year-pro is coming off a eight-round unanimous decision over Oscar Riojas on April 6th at the 2300 Arena,

Amuza of Prichard, Alabama by way of Ghana, has an impressive mark of 24-3 with 22 knockouts.

The 35 year-old Amuzu is an eight-year professional, who is coming off a knockout win over David Okai on April 30th in Accra, Ghana

In the co-feature undefeated super feather Anvar Yunusov will take on Angel Monreal in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds.

Anvvar Yunusov

Yunusov is a three-time Olympian from his native Tajikstan, competed in the 2008, 2012 and 2016 games.

As a a professional, Yunusov is 3-0 with wins over Justin Savi (30-12-2) and Deo Kizito (3-1).

Monreal of Monterrey, Mexico has a record of 10-10-1 with 3 knockouts.

Monreal, 30, is a nine-year pro and has a career best win over Daniel Reta (4-1).

In his last bout, Monreal lost to Jabar Zayani on August 18, 2017 in Studio City, California.

Also in an eight-round bout, Raeese Aleem (11-0, 5 KOs) of Las Vegas returns to the scene of his best victory to date, when he takes on Alcides Santiago (6-2, 5 KOs) of Arecibo, Puerto Rico in a super bantamweight bout.

Raeese Aleem

Aleem defeated previously undefeated Marcus Bates on April 6th at the 2300 Arena.

Santiago of Arecibo, Puerto Rico has a record of 6-2 with five knockouts.

Like Aleem, Santiago is coming off a win over an undefeated foe. Santiago stopped Bryan Chevallier in two rounds on June 17, 2017 in Caguas, Puerto Rico.

In a six-round welterweight bout, Shyngyskhan Tazhibay (6-0, 2 KOs) of Washington, D.C. battles Yasmani Pedroso (2-4, 1 KO) of Miami, FL.

In four-round bouts:

Jerrod Miner (1-1-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia battles Alejandro Jimenez (2-0, 1 KO) of New Hope, PA in a bantamweight bout.

Crystian Peguero (2-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will take on pro debuting Yueri Andujar of Reading, PA in a featherweight contest.

Bhieem Billups of Philadelphia will make his pro debut over Kenny Hill (0-1) of Moorehead City, North Carolina in a welterweight bout.

Christopher Burgos (0-2-1) of Philadelphia fights Robert Ramos (1-5-1, 1 KO) of Allentown, PA in a super featherweight scrap.

Keeshawn Williams (2-0, 1 KO) of Washington, D.C. will take on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight bout.

Tickets for this great night of boxing can be purchased at www.2300arena.com for $100, $75 and $50

Las Vegas – UFC®, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization, today announced details of a 25-part documentary series that will debut in September to celebrate the company’s silver anniversary. Entitled UFC 25 Years in Short, the compilation of short films will present 25 captivating UFC stories, one for each year of the promotion’s existence, which will examine UFC’s amazing evolution, fascinating characters, and lasting influence.

UFC 25 Years in Short will launch on Monday, September 17 on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the promotion’s digital subscription streaming service. Films will premier one at a time, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT. The series will be rolled out in just over an eight-week span, culminating with the final film on Monday, November 12, UFC’s official 25th anniversary.

Many of the shorts will be helmed by award-winning directors and producers, including several alums of ESPN’s landmark 30 for 30 film series, including Nick and Colin Barnicle, Adam Condal, Jason Hehir, Rory Karpf, Dan Marks, and Matt Ogens.

“This project is a fun way to tell the history of UFC,” said UFC President Dana White. “Each one of these films is linked to a pivotal moment in the UFC timeline, and together they represent our complete story. We’re working with some amazingly talented directors and producers on this project, and I think UFC fans will really enjoy these films.”

UFC 25 Years in Short will have a special, worldwide preview on UFC’s YouTube channel on Friday, September 14, with the episode entitled ‘COUNTRY BOY CAN SURVIVE: The Story of Matt Hughes’ Fight for Survival.’ The film, directed by Emmy Award-winning documentarian and ESPN Films veteran Rory Karpf, recounts the emotional and inspiring story of Hall of Famer and dominant two-time UFC welterweight champion Matt Hughes, who had a meteoric rise through the ranks and later fought a critical battle for survival after a near-fatal automobile accident.

UFC 25 Years in Short – September Premiere Dates and Summaries*

Film #1 – OCTO: The Disputed Origin Story of the UFC Octagon
In 1993, the UFC was born in an 8-sided cradle of combat, and promoters, TV producers, and Hollywood set designers still dispute who is the Octagon’s true creator.
Premier Date: Monday, September 17

Film #2 – THE LION’S DEN: The Story of the First Mixed Martial Arts Team
In 1994, Ken Shamrock assembled the first ever MMA team, the Lion’s Den, and showed that success in the ultimate individual sport was a team effort.
Premiere Date: Wednesday, September 19

Film #3 – ULTIMATE ACCESSORY: The Story of the UFC Championship Belt
Since 1995, UFC belts have become the ultimate accessory prized by all MMA fighters, but their history is a little known, and often surprising, story.
Premiere Date: Friday, September 21

Film #4 – BLACKOUT: The Story of the Political Crusade to Keep UFC Off TV
In 1996, a political crusade to ban ultimate fighting successfully pressured the cable TV industry to stop airing UFC events, nearly extinguishing the new sport.
Premiere Date: Monday, September 24

Film #5 – JUDGEMENT DAY: The Story of the UFC Getting Run Out of Town
In 1997, UFC 12 was set to take place in Buffalo. However, the day prior, New York changed its laws to effectively ban MMA in the state for the next 20 years. The event then found a new home in Dothan, Alabama.
Premiere Date: Wednesday, September 26

Film #6 – THE ICE AGE: The Story of Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell, UFC’s Breakthrough Star
Chuck Liddell, who connected with knockout punches and with fans around the world like no UFC fighter before him, became UFC’s first true crossover superstar.
Premiere Date: Friday, September 28

*October and November schedules will be announced at a later date

About UFC®
UFC® is a premium global sports brand and the largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. Celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2018, UFC boasts more than 284 million fans worldwide and has produced over 440 events in 22 countries since its inception in 1993. Acquired in 2016 by global sports, entertainment and fashion leader Endeavor (formerly WME | IMG), together with strategic partners Silver Lake Partners and KKR, UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas with a network of employees around the world. UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe, while programming is broadcast in over 160 countries and territories to 1.1 billion TV households worldwide in 40 different languages. UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service, delivers exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content to fans around the world. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat and Instagram: @UFC.

New York, NY (08/23/18) – Tevin Farmer has signed a multi-fight co-promotional deal with DiBella Entertainment and Matchroom Boxing USA.

The newly crowned IBF World Super Featherweight champion will make the first defense of his title live on DAZN in a bout to be announced this week – another step in the remarkable career of the popular southpaw.

Farmer travelled to Australia earlier in the month to land the title in convincing fashion in the backyard of Sydney’s Billy Dib, to claim the IBF strap at the second attempt having been on the wrong end of a controversial split decision against Kenichi Ogawa in Las Vegas in December, a result subsequently change to a no-contest following Ogawa failing a drugs test.

The Philadelphian ace’s win was a sweet moment after recovering from a career-threatening injury when he was shot in the hand in July 2017 – reaching the World title status his undoubted talent has always promised.

Farmer is hunting down unification bouts as soon as possible, with champions Gervonta Davis, Miguel Berchelt and Masayuki Ito all on his radar.

“Winning that belt after everything I’ve been through brought me indescribable joy,” said Farmer. “I always felt that I was a true champion. I just had to go over to Australia, capture the title and prove it, and I did just that. I came home a champion and celebrated, but I got right back in the gym. I want to be an active champion and defend my title. That’s why I’m so thrilled about this deal. It’s a pleasure to work with both DiBella Entertainment and Matchroom Boxing USA and I know that with us working together, big things are going to happen. Ultimately, my goal is to get all the belts and I’ll do whatever it takes. I’m open to fighting anybody to unify. I’m looking forward to showing the world who Tevin Farmer is and what I can do.”

“Through all of Tevin’s hard work, heart and determination, he overcame the odds, achieved his dream, and now he can enjoy the fruits of his labor,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “This is a great deal that will help progress Tevin’s career as he begins his championship reign. Starting with his first title defense in October, Tevin will stay active as we work toward getting him the biggest and most meaningful fights available.”

“Tevin Farmer has a great story but more importantly to me the man can really fight,” said Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing USA. “He showed great heart to bounce back from that shocking decision in Las Vegas and go to Australia to win the title – and now the world is his oyster.

“We have a great fight lined up for him in October but the ultimate focus is Gervonta and other unifications. We are going to keep him nice and busy and we look forward to working with Tevin and Lou on this exciting journey.”

LOS ANGELES (August 23, 2018): Golden Boy Promotions will bring world-class boxing for the second time this year to the Orange County area as former world title challenger Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete (18-1, 7 KOs) defends his NABF 118-pound Title against Joshua “The Professor” Franco (14-1, 7 KOs)in the 10-round main event of the Oct. 4 edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN at the Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, Calif. ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes will air the fights beginning at 10:30 ET/7:30 p.m. PT. ESPN 3 will live stream the fights beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/ 6:00 PT.

Negrete, of Tierraalta, Colombia, built an impressive resume by defeating tough opponents in both the bantamweight and super bantamweight divisions. In his most important victory to date, the 31-year-old defeated Sergio Frias for the NABF Bantamweight Title in the main event Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN in June 2017. Negrete then suffered the first loss of his career in a valiant effort against WBC Super Bantamweight Champion Rey Vargas in Dec. of that year. Negrete bounced back with a victory against Dhiul Olguinand will look for another world title shot if he defends his title successfully against Franco.

“I’m very happy to be fighting this October,” said Oscar Negrete. “Franco is a good fighter. He’s intelligent and strong. We have to be very careful and be very prepared for this fight. We hope that this fight puts me at the top of the 118-pound division. I looked for the opportunity at 122 pounds and it didn’t go as planned, but I hope that a victory against Franco gives me another shot in the division where I actually belong, which is bantamweight.”

Franco is a 22-year-old bantamweight prospect of San Antonio, Texas who brings an exciting and intelligent style to the ring. Franco, under the tutelage of renowned trainer Robert Garcia, has maintained a near-perfect record since debuting as a professional in 2015. Though suffering a defeat earlier this year, Franco has already bounced back against the experienced Isao Carranzain June, and he’ll look to make a big leap in the 118-pound rankings with a win against Negrete.

“This is the step-up fight I need to fight for a world title,” said Joshua Franco. “Negrete is the perfect fighter for me to demonstrate that I’m a world-class talent. We know he’s very strong and experienced, but I’m positive that I have the skills to put on a great show and to win my first regional title.”

In the co-main event, Daniel Zorrilla (7-0, 6 KOs) of Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico and part of the Miguel Cotto Promotions stable, will return in an eight-round 140-pound fight. Jousce “Tito” Gonzalez (8-0, 8 KOs) of Glendora, Calif. will participate in a six-round super featherweight fight. Herbert “Ace”Acevedo (15-2, 6 KOs), a Garden City, Kansas native who calls the Westside Boxing Club in Los Angeles is home, will participate in an eight-round super lightweight battle.

Times for the event, along with a full undercard, will be announced shortly.

Negrete vs. Franco is a 10-round fight for the NABF Bantamweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING” and Hennessy, “Never Stop, Never Settle.” The event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2018 at The Hangar at The OC Fair and Event Center. ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes will air the fights beginning at 10:30 ET/7:30 p.m. PT. ESPN 3 will live stream the fights beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/ 6:00 PT.

Tickets for Negrete vs. Franco will go on sale Thursday, Aug. 23 at 10:00 a.m. PT. Tickets will start at $25. Tickets are available for purchase at www.goldenboytickets.com, Vendini or the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and
http://www.espn.com/boxing/; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @ESPN, and @ESPNBoxeo; become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN and #NegreteFranco.

Photos and videos are available to download by clicking hereor copying and pasting link: http://bit.ly/NegreteFrancointo a browser. Credit must be given to Golden Boy Promotions for photos and videos used.

BROOKLYN (August 23, 2018) – There is no looking ahead to future fights for top 147-pound contenders Yordenis Ugas of Cuba and Cesar Barrionuevo of Argentina as the two sluggers prepare for their WBC title eliminator matchup in SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING action on Saturday, September 8 live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING™ and presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME main event will pit two of the division’s biggest names against each other as former 147-pound champions Danny “Swift” Garcia and “Showtime” Shawn Porter square off for the vacant WBC Welterweight World Championship. The winner of Ugas vs. Barrionuevo earns the WBC’s second mandatory position to the winner of Garcia vs. Porter.

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

Ugas, (22-3, 11 KOs), returns to the SHOWTIME stage for the second time. In February, he handed Ray Robinson his first defeat since a 2010 decision to Shawn Porter. Barrionuevo, (34-3-2, 24 KOs), making his U.S. debut, has won 10 fights in a row and has only lost once since 2010 as he looks to follow in the footsteps of Marcos Maidana and Lucas Matthysse, elite welterweights from Argentina.

Here is what the 32-year-old Ugas and 29-year-old Barrionuevo had to say from their respective camps about their September 8 matchup:

YORDENIS UGAS

Overall, how is your training going in Las Vegas and who have you sparred with?
“We have been training at Fernando Vargas’ gym, the Feroz Fight Factory gym. We’ve been sparring with Jose Benavidez Jr. and Diego Magdaleno, and a few other locals. Nothing is really different with this camp compared to others. I’m 100 percent committed to training for this fight.”

What are the advantages of training in Las Vegas?
“I’ve been in Las Vegas for the past two and a half years. This place has changed my life. I came out here and started training with Ismael Salas, who has trained many of the best Cuban boxers. There is such good sparring out here, and there’s also mountains. I love running up Mount Charleston. This is just a perfect place for a fighter to train.”

How are you preparing to face a southpaw like Cesar Barrionuevo?
“We are sparring with lefties and trying to mirror exactly what we think we’ll see. The Argentine fighters always come to fight and are well prepared. They always go to war. Luckily I like to go to war too. So I think we have good styles that will give the fans a great fight.”

What else do you know about your opponent?
“I’ve seen some footage and that’s it. It’s not really about what he does or brings, it’s all about staying focused on what I do best. I don’t take much time off so I’m always in the gym training. I did go down to Miami a few weeks ago and actually trained in Barrionuevo’s gym and met some guys he works with, but we never crossed paths.”

You are returning to fight on SHOWTIME for a second time. Does that give you an advantage?
“Everyone who knows boxing knows I’m the more experienced fighter. This is one of his first times he’s fighting outside Argentina. I know he’s a big deal there, but he’s never seen a stage like this, with all the bright lights. I’m going to be prepared for the best Argentine fighter that shows up that night.”

What is your prediction of the Garcia-Porter fight?
“I think they are two great fighters and whoever is the most prepared on that night will win the fight. Because this is a WBC eliminator, I know there’s a chance I could fight one of them if I win my fight. I would love to fight either of them.”

CESAR BARRIONUEVO

How is your training camp going in Miami and who have you sparred with?
“Technically, everything is strong and with my coaches Carlos [Morgan] and Pablo [Martinez] we feel good about where we are and what we’re doing. I want to be 100 percent ready on September 8 for the fight of my life. I feel like I will be and am so grateful for the support of my team and everyone here at Caicedo Sports’ gym. I have been sparring with a bunch of local prospects, young guys with undefeated records and guys that are in the same boat as I am looking to become a world champion.”

How are you preparing for an aggressive fighter like Ugas?
“I’m formulating my plan and intensifying my training so I’m 100 percent ready. I’m focusing on my cardio and increasing my strength. That’s why I’m here in the U.S., because the level of competition is better than back home. I feel that everything I’m doing is a step up. I’m having the best training camp of my life. I’m not worrying about my opponents’ style.”

What do you know about your opponent?
“We have watched some film, but that doesn’t always help you. Split-second adjustments will be made if needed. I’m a fighter at the end of the day, and will be ready for whatever he puts in front of me. I have never met him, but I know he came and worked out at my gym. I don’t know him, but maybe after the fight we can be friends. Right now it’s kill or be killed.”

What are your thoughts about fighting on the big stage at Barclays Center?
“I know I have a huge fan base in Argentina and can’t wait to go back there and celebrate a win with them. I’m so proud of all the past world champions that have come from my country, but I’m not coming to Brooklyn as a tourist. I’m coming to fight and get the victory in spectacular fashion and to put Argentina back on the map in the sport of boxing. The objective is to look good and win and to leave a good impression fighting on SHOWTIME and for everyone watching.”

What is your prediction of the Garcia-Porter fight?
“It’s a tough fight. Maybe 50-50, but I’m leaning toward Danny Garcia. I think his experience as a world champion will show.”

Is it hard not to look ahead to a possible future fight with one of those guys?
“I haven’t thought about it for even one second. I’m focused on my next task, and that’s Ugas. I’m coming to do what needs to be done to get the win. And I’ll get that win with blood, sweat and tears. I’ll focus on Danny Garcia or Shawn Porter when the time comes.”

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports,www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @DannySwift, @ShowtimeShawnP, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Kris Lawrence’s Heavyweight Factory Promotions is proud to announce the signing of undefeated welterweight power puncher Derrieck Cuevas (17-0-1, 14 KOs) to a promotional contract.

Cuevas, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, started boxing at the age of 10, after getting into frequent fights in the schoolyard. He went on to fight internationally and won the Puerto Rican National Amateur Championship at 132 lbs., ending his unpaid career with a final record of 123-14.

Turning professional in 2014, the 23-year-old won the World Boxing Association Fedecentro Welterweight Championship in 2016 with a unanimous decision over Daniel Sostre.

“I am very excited to have signed with Kris Lawrence and the Heavyweight Factory,” said Cuevas. “To reach my dreams, I will give all of me in the ring. I plan on becoming a world champion and making my beloved Puerto Rico proud.”

Cuevas has a strong team behind him, including manager Alex Troya, who facilitated the signing with Heavyweight Factory Director of Boxing Operations, Henry Rivalta.

“I put this deal together with my dear friend Henry Rivalta,” said Troya. “I have known Henry for 15 years now and I’m happy to do business with him again. Derrieck and I believe Kris Lawrence and Henry will guide Cuevas’ career in the right direction. There’s a lot of experience here and we feel very comfortable around our new team. Kris has worked with many champions and Derrick will be next. Thanks for believing in us and we will not disappoint.”

“We are glad to have Derrieck join our family here at THF,” said Kris Lawrence. “I feel he has great power and potential in the welterweight division. We have big plans for him and are happy to have added our first Puerto Rican to our stable since Daniel Santos. I wish him the best of luck and he will have our full support and backing.”

“Derrick is a rough kid said,” Henry Rivalta. “He’s has no neck and giant hands and he’s very strong! In the ring, he walks guys down with serious power. He is in a money division and can be a threat to all at 147 lbs., in the near future. He wants to be a champion and bring a belt back to the island of Puerto Rico. We welcome Derrieck and Alex Troya to our team.

23 August 2018 – Tokyo, Japan: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), just held a Press Conference announcing the promotion’s first live event in Tokyo, Japan, scheduled for 31 March 2019. Media from all across the globe gathered to participate in the Press Conference, which was led by Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, Chatri Sityodtong.

Also in attendance were ONE Championship athletes, including ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion Angela Lee, ONE Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano Fernandes, ONE Heavyweight World Champion Brandon Vera, the legendary Renzo Gracie, his brother 5th degree BJJ Black Belt Ralph Gracie, acclaimed Submission Grappling world champion Garry Tonon, Kickboxing superstar Giorgio Petrosyan, Muay Thai legend Nong-O Gaiyanghadao, former ONE World Title challenger Mei Yamaguchi, former ONE World Title challenger Ken Hasegawa, ONE Strawweight World Champion Yoshitaka Naito, and former ONE Lightweight World Champion Shinya Aoki.

The esteemed martial arts superstars took to the podium to deliver their thoughts in support of ONE Championship’s first live event in Japan, and what is in store for martial arts in Asia in the immediate future.

Official photos of the Press Conference can be found at this link: https://1drv.ms/f/s!Am0VcTcnsBbp52-lAmkY1XineSiF

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “Japan has a rich martial arts culture and history, and ONE Championship has been planning for a very long time to bring our authentic martial arts experience right here to the fans, deep in the heart of Asia. Our mission at ONE Championship is sacred, we want to unleash martial arts superheroes unto the world — world-class athletes who ignite passion and hope, and who help weave martial arts into the very fabric of human life. By sharing their stories with the world, ONE Championship aims to change the lives of many through the beauty of sport and discipline.”

Sityodtong continued:

“It is our absolute pleasure to announce today that we will be officially holding our first ever live event in Tokyo next March. The ONE Championship superstars here today are some of the greatest talents in the world, bar none. They came out here to show their support for ONE Championship, and are living proof of the greatness of martial arts and the impact it has on our lives. Together, we can inspire the world to walk in the true values of martial arts — integrity, humility, honor, respect, courage, discipline, and compassion. We look forward to seeing you all once again, right here in March 2019.”

Renzo Gracie, martial arts legend, stated: “I believe in what ONE Championship is doing out here in Asia, and I believe in Chatri’s vision for martial arts. It warms my heart to see just how much respect we have built here as martial artists. This is what true martial arts is all about. I have been to Tokyo many times and the city never fails to amaze and surprise me. To be able to come full circle and bring martial arts back to Japan, it’s an amazing sight to behold. I am incredibly proud to be a part of this momentous occasion. Japan has played a huge role in the history of martial arts on a global scale, and it’s just right that it returns to glory once again. ONE Championship and Japan are a perfect fit and I foresee a bright future ahead.”

Angela Lee, ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion, stated: “Thank you all for having me out here. I am thrilled to be part of this Press Conference. ONE Championship is doing big things out here in Asia and I am proud to be a part of it all. Japan is a beautiful country with great people and great culture. As the ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion, I am proud to serve as a role model to all the aspiring martial artists in Japan and in Asia, especially the young girls who have dreams of becoming martial artists. Japan is such an incredible country and I can’t wait to experience what it has to offer.”

Shinya Aoki, former ONE Lightweight World Champion, stated: “Japanese martial arts is something that I hold dear to my heart. It is so much more than sport and competition. I live by the code of martial arts, and to be able to share that with everyone in the world, it’s an honor. This is the chance for Japanese martial arts to truly shine. Martial arts is my passion and I am grateful for the opportunity to help lead martial arts in Asia into the future. ONE Championship is a tremendous organization and now that we are going to have our first live event in Tokyo, it will only help highlight the beauty of martial arts in Japan.”

A separate summary of quotes from athletes who attended today’s event will be sent following the Press Conference.

Sityodtong also took the time out to reveal the ONE Championship 2019 calendar of events, which will see the promotion return to its strong roots in Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, China, and Thailand. Two events in Tokyo are scheduled for the year, taking place in March and October, while new markets Vietnam and South Korea are also introduced.

Sityodtong continued:

“I am thrilled to announce the first 24 of 30 events of our busy 2019 schedule at ONE Championship. In addition to the first 24 live events planned for all sports fans in Asia, there will be at least 6 ONE Warrior Series events that will continue to showcase the absolute best in martial arts, delivered by our martial arts superheroes. Of course, all of our live events will be available on the ONE Super App. 2018 isn’t over yet and we still have a lot of great stuff planned but 2019 is already shaping up to be an amazing year for us.”

ONE Championship 2019 Calendar of Events

Jakarta, Indonesia

19 January

Manila, Philippines

25 January

Bangkok, Thailand

16 February

Singapore

22 February

Yangon, Myanmar

8 March

Tokyo, Japan

31 March

Manila, Philippines

5 April

Jakarta, Indonesia

4 May

Bangkok, Thailand

11 May

Singapore

17 May

Beijing, China

7 June

Macau, China

15 June

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

28 June

Guangzhou, China

20 July

Manila, Philippines

2 August

Bangkok, Thailand

17 August

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

6 September

Tokyo, Japan

11 October

Jakarta, Indonesia

26 October

Shanghai, China

9 November

Singapore

22 November

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

6 December

Manila, Philippines

13 December

Seoul, South Korea

20 December

ONE Championship is having a phenomenal 2018 thus far, and with eight more blockbuster live events left to close the year, there is a lot of world-class martial arts action to look forward to.

The next two events, ONE: BEYOND THE HORIZON set for 8 September in Shanghai, China, and ONE: CONQUEST OF HEROES set for 22 September in Jakarta, Indonesia already feature some of the most compelling martial arts contests of the year that fans can certainly look forward to.

In addition, world championship boxing makes its ONE Championship debut when The Ring and WBC Super Flyweight World Champion Srisaket Sor Rungvisai of Thailand defends his title against Iran “MagnifiKO” Diaz of Mexico in the main event of ONE: KINGDOM OF HEROES set for 6 October at the Impact Arena in Bangkok.

For more updates on ONE Championship, please visit www.onefc.com, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ONEChampionship, and like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ONEChampionship.

About ONE Championship™

ONE Championship is the largest global sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE Championship is the home of martial arts and is the world’s largest martial arts organization, hosting bouts across all styles of martial arts such as Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Kung Fu, Silat, Sanda, Lethwei, Mixed Martial Arts, Tae Kwon Do, Submission Grappling, and more. The world’s most exciting martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia, featuring some of the world’s best martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. In addition to its digital platforms, ONE Championship broadcasts to over 1.7 billion potential viewers across 138 countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including Fox Sports, ABS-CBN, Astro, ClaroSports, Bandsports, Startimes, Premier Sports, Thairath TV, Skynet, Mediacorp, OSN, and more.

Ivana Habazin will make the first defence of her IBO Female World Middleweight Championship against Gifty Amanua Ankrah on September 8 at the Arena Zagreb as chief support for Filip Hrgovi?’s WBC International title challenge.

Habazin the former IBF Welterweight World Champion, who was involved in a historic unification fight with female pound-for-pound star Cecilia Brækhus in 2014, travelled to Vienna, Austria in March to claim the IBO World Middleweight title with a fifth-round technical knockout win over Elene Sikmashvili.

“It was make or break for me,” reveals Habazin. “I decided that if I did not win that fight, I would pursue other avenues outside of boxing. This motivated me to do my best and win another World title. It meant everything to me because I put everything on the line, that victory also cemented in me the belief once more that I can be the best female boxer ever.”

Habazin now returns home for a huge fight night in the Croatian capital where she will defend her IBO World title against Ghana’s Gifty Amanua Ankrah, and the 28 year-old is promising a spectacular performance for the fans at the Arena Zagreb.

“The pressure to perform in front of my hometown supporters is very large, but I welcome any challenge,” she says. “I am using this pressure as motivation to give my fans and supporters the best fight they have ever seen from me.

“It’s a massive honoir and source of motivation to fight at home, but, when the bell rings, I am no longer in my hometown, I am in the ring and all my focus is inside the ring. My goal is to beat anyone and everyone who enters the ring with me including Cecilia Braekhus. When I get my rematch with her I will prove to everyone that I am the best female boxer.”

Habazin was originally scheduled to fight on August 26 in South Africa but an elbow injury forced her to withdraw from this contest. However the Zagreb-boxer has benefitted from a tough training camp with renowned coach James Ali Bashir.

“For this fight I’ve had my most grueling preparations yet,” she says. “Training in South Africa at Visser professional boxing training camp for 2 months at 2000 metres above sea level with my new coach James Ali Bashir.

“We worked daily and he helped me reach new heights in my boxing. His passion for the sport is infectious and every time I train with him I feel a hunger and motivation to become the best female boxer the world has ever seen. Currently, I have a small elbow injury, but it will be healed within the next days and I will be ready for this fight.”

Ivana Habazin defends IBO Female World Middleweight title against Gifty Amanua Ankrah on the undercard of Filip Hrgovi?’s WBC International Heavyweight Championship contest with Amir Mansour. Tickets for the Zagreb Fight Night on September 8 featuring Filip Hrgovi? vs. Amir Mansour start at 110 KN and are available online via www.eventim.hr.