Brooklyn, NY (June 11, 2018) – Mathew Gonzalez and Cesar Francis remained perfect by scoring stoppage wins in welterweight bouts this past Saturday night at the King’s Theatre in Brooklyn.

Both Gonzalez and Francis are managed by El Matador Management.

Cesar Francis remained undefeated by stopping Victor Manuel Abreu in round two of their scheduled six-round junior lightweight bout.

Francis dropped Abreu with a right to the body for which Abreu got up just after the ten-count, and the bout was halted at 39 seconds of the 2nd frame.

Francis, 142.6 lbs of Brooklyn is now 5-0 with four knockouts.

Gonzalez dominated Jimmy Rosario and registered at stoppage after round three of their scheduled four-round bout.

Gonzalez dominated the fight by working behind a pinpoint jab, and beat up Rosario until he retired on his stool following the 3rd round.

Gonzalez, 144.6 lbs of Queens, NY is now 6-0 with 4 knockouts.

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The un-televised undercard of the “Shields vs. Gabriels” event on Friday, June 22, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, is stacked with great fights between local and international prospects.

Salita Promotions has put together several strong match-ups in addition to the nationally televised SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION (10 p.m. ET/PT) portion of the show, which features two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and current Unified Women’s Super-Middleweight Champion Claressa Shields (5-0, 2 KOs) taking on unified 154-pound champion Hanna Gabriels for the vacant IBF and WBA Women’s Middleweight World Championships.

Topping the off-TV action will be worldwide fan favorite Bakhtiyar “Bakha Bullet” Eyubov (13-0, 11 KOs) of Aktjubinsk, Kazakhstan, taking on Nicholas “King Beamen” Givhan (21-1-1, 11 KOs) of nearby Kalamazoo, Michigan, in a 10-rounder for the USBA Great Lakes Region Welterweight Championship

The action will further heat up with a 10-round light heavyweight showdown between Grozny, Russia’s Aslambek Idigov (12-0, 5 KOs) and Detroit’s own James “The Equalizer” Ballard (10-1, 3 KOs).

Detroit bantamweight favorite Ja’Rico “Great Lakes King” O’Quinn (8-0-1, 5 KOs) will bring his monstrous legion of fans in to watch him go eight rounds for the first time while taking on West Bloomfield, Michigan, veteran Yaqub Kareem (14-9-1, 8 KOs).

The sensational Franchon Crews Dezurn (3-1, 1 KO) of Baltimore will put on a six-round showcase against Ohio’s Crystal Byers; and in an eight-round heavyweight match-up,
Kurchaloi, Russia’s Apti Davtaev (14-0-1, 13 KOs) will attempt to continue his tear through the big man’s division against Catlettsburg, Kentucky, veteran Cory Phelps (16-10-1, 8 KOs).

Appearing in match-ups that are still being made, “Lethal” Leon Lawson (6-0, 4 KOs) of Flint will fight in a super welterweight six-rounder and Detroit’s undefeated Joseph Bonas (3-0, 3 KOs) will go four welterweight rounds. Both opponents are currently TBD.

Also on Showtime, Unified Women’s Middleweight Champion Christina Hammer (22-0, 10 KOs) of Germany defends her WBC & WBO Titles in her U.S. debut against former world champion Tori Nelson (17-1-3, 2 KOs) and in the 10-round opener, Russia’s Umar Salamov (20-1, 15 KOs) will face Georgia’s Brian Howard (13-1, 10 KOs) for the IBF North American Light Heavyweight Championship.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Salita Promotions, are available at Ticketmaster.com or at the Masonic Temple Box Office at (313) 832-7100. VIP tickets are priced at $300, ringside tickets at $125, and remaining tickets at $75, $50 and $35.

Paul Hyland Jnr is aiming to seal a hat-trick of huge wins for his manager Mark Dunlop when he challenges British Lightweight champion Lewis Ritson at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle on Saturday night (June 16), live on Sky Sports.

Hyland Jnr is aiming to stop Ritson winning the title outright after the local star picked up the belt stopping Robbie Barrett in seven rounds in Manchester in October and blasting away Joe Murray and Scotty Cardle in one and two rounds respectively in February and March.

The unbeaten Belfast man knows stopping Ritson’s run would open doors to more major honours in the winter, and buoyed by wins for Dunlop-led pals Ronnie Clark over Zelfa Barrett and James Tennyson over Martin J. Ward, ‘Hylo’ could wake up on his 28th birthday on Sunday as the first Northern Irishman to hold the Lord Lonsdale belt at 135lbs since Charlie Nash in 1978.

“Mark is on a bit of a roll with Ronnie beating Zelfa and James stopping Martin so it’s down to me to make it a treble,” said Hyland Jnr.

“The winner of this will push on towards a shot at the World title so it’s sort of like a World title eliminator in theory, there’s a lot riding on this. You win this, it puts you in the mix. That’s what we all dream about, to fight for a World title and this firmly puts me in a good place for that.

“I know Ritson is a tough bloke, he’ll come at me. Whatever he brings, I’ll take it. I believe I have a better boxing ability him that will show on the night, it’ll be a complete war.

“Cardle landed with some big blows in the first round when they fought, so it shows he can be hit. Cardle also only had three weeks to train for the fight so it was all or nothing for him in the first few rounds. He knew he couldn’t go the distance. I will be a totally different proposition.”

Hyland Jnr’s clash with Ritson is part of a huge night of action in Newcastle Josh Kelly challenges Kris George for the Commonwealth Welterweight title.

Gavin McDonnell defends his WBC International Super-Bantamweight title against Stuart Hall in a must-win clash for both men, Charlie Edwards and Anthony Nelson meet for the vacant WBA Continental Super-Flyweight title and Arfan Iqbal defends his English Cruiserweight belt against Simon Vallily.

Tickets priced £40, £60, £80 and £100 are on sale now from the Metro Arena at http://www.metroradioarena.co.uk, on 0844 493 6666 or in person from the Metro Radio Arena Box Office. Please note venue facility and booking fees will apply. VIP tickets are on sale priced at £200 from http://www.matchroomboxing.com/tickets

Face value tickets for June 16 are available from http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ . StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua.

New York, NY (June 11, 2018)-DeAndre Ware scored the biggest win of his young career as he won an eight-round majority decision over 2012 Olympian and previously undefeated Enrique Collazo in a super middleweight bout at King’s Theatre in Brooklyn, New York.

After a tactical first three rounds, Ware took over the fight with relentless pressure while landing powerful shots to the head and body that forced Collazo to wilt.

Ware, who is a full-time fireman, specifically asked to fight Collazo, and he came through with flying colors as he won by the scores of 77-75 twice, and 76-76.

The bout was the 1st time that Ware navigated the 8 round distance, and he got stronger with each passing round.

“This was the biggest fight of my career,” said Ware. “I am thankful for this opportunity, and I am looking forward to my career taking off after this big win. We are on our way to the top.”

Said David McWater, CEO of Split-T Management, “This was a great win for all of us. DeAndre has been working hard, and was patiently waiting for his opportunity to come, and when it did, he came up with a big performance. He should be a player in the super middleweight division real soon.”

ABOUT SPLIT-T MANAGEMENT

Headed by David McWater, Split-T Management has amassed one of the top stables in boxing.

Their impressive roster includes:

World Rated Contenders

IBF Super Lightweight Mandatory Title Challenger Ivan Baranchyk

Welterweight “The New” Ray Robinson

Former Bantamweight Title Challenger Antonio Nieves

2016 Olympians

Lightweight Teofimo Lopez

Junior Middleweight Charles Conwell

Bantamweight Antonio Vargas

Undefeated Prospects

Heavyweights: Stephen Shaw, Marcus Carter, Yegor Plevako

Cruiserweights: Joshua Temple, “Mighty” Joe Jones

Light Heavyweights: Joseph Williams, Bortirali Mamajonov

Super Middleweights: Isiah Steen, DeAndre Ware, Isiah Jones

Middleweights: Marquis Moore, Raquel Miller

Junior Middleweights: Ardreal Holmes, Hurshidbek Normatov, Fred Wilson, Jr.

Welterweight’s Janelson Bocachica, Poindexter Knight, Mark Dawson, Boubacar Sylla, Brian Ceballo

Junior Lightweight: Erick De Leon

Long Island, New York, June 10, 2018

Star Boxing’s “Rockin’ Fights” lit up The Paramount Friday night featuring a main event between rising super lightweight DANNY GONZLAEZ vs veteran JUSTIN SAVI.

MAIN EVENT: DANNY GONZALEZ vs. JUSTIN SAVI
8-ROUND JR. WELTERWEIGHT

DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ did not wait long to show his dominance in Friday nights main event against JUSTIN SAVI. The first round saw exchanges from both men, attempting to find their distances. However in the second, Gonzalez took over, landing hard combinations to the body and the head of Savi, at one point so severe the ref stepped in to give a standing count. With only 1 second left in the 2nd round, Gonzalez unloaded on Savi, who he had pinned in the corner, until the ref stopped the bout as Gonzalez earned the TKO victory. Danny Gonzalez improves to 16-1-1 7KO’s.

TYRONE JAMES vs. KAESEN FREEMAN
6-ROUND WELTERWEIGHT BOUT

TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES put the fans at The Paramount on their feet against, KAESEN FREEMAN. James used his length to find his distance against Freeman, and once he did, there was no looking back. A beautiful counter right dropped Freeman midway through the first, and with blood in the water, James refused to let it get away, viciously dropping Freeman with a straight right hand a second time, causing the referee to call a stop to the action, earning a KO victory. James improves to 8-0 5KO’s.

JOHNNY HERNANDEZ vs. JUAN RODRIGUEZ
6-ROUND WELTERWEIGHT BOUT

JOHNNY “THE HITMAN” HERNANDEZ was in grudge match with Haymarket, Virginia native, JUAN de la cruz RODRIGUEZ. It seemed as the fight went on, Hernandez’s combination became more crisp and more damaging. Rodriguez was unafraid to go toe to toe with Hernandez, and many time throughout the fight the two exchanged even blows at the center of the ring. When all was said and done, the judges scored a unanimous decision victory for John Hernandez.

MICHAEL STOUTE vs. ANDREW STRODE
6-ROUND FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT

Both MICHAEL STOUTE and ANDREW STRODE entered the ring, on Friday, without a blemish on their record. Both Stoute and Strode went into full tactical warfare, slipping punches, countering, and attempting to command the ring. Both fighters found success in different rounds in a number of ways, including Strode’s quick straight right, and Stoute’s body work. The fight was a true deadlock most of the way through, however, after the final bell, the judges scored majority decision win, in favor of Andrew Strode. Strode improves to 4-0 1KO.

JOHNATHAN ARROYO vs. ANTHONY WOODS
4-ROUND WELTERWEIGHT BOUT

JOHN ARROYO and ANTHONY WOODS opened the night of action with a four round fight that mainly included blood and bombs in which Arroyo was cut over his eye from a head butt, courtesy of Anthony Woods. The back and forth action from both men led to the scores of 38-38 on all three judges cards, a rare unanimous decision draw.

DANNY GONZALEZ (LEFT) LANDING ON JUSTIN SAVI (RIGHT)

TYRONE JAMES (LEFT) LANDS A FLUSH LEFT HAND ON KAESEN FREEMAN (RIGHT)
CREDIT: STAR BOXING/NICK SIDERIS

FACTS:
Featured in the main event is Queens native, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ who is in search of his eighth consecutive win at The Paramount. See the next generation of New York rising stars such as TYRONE JAMES, MICHAEL STOUTE, JOHNNY HERNANDEZ and JOHN ARROYO.

*If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please email us at TonyPalmieri@StarBoxing.com
PAST RELEASE:
Rockin Fights 31 Announcement
Karperis vs. Gonzalez Main Event Announcement
Tyrone James The Next Undefeated Prospect to Come Out Of The Paramount?
New Main Event: Danny Gonzalez vs Justin Savi
Johnny Hernandez Fight Announcement
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.

Please see below for quotes from Mikey Garcia and Robert Easter Jr. from tonight’s interview on the SHOWTIME telecast ahead of their Saturday, July 28 matchup live on SHOWTIME from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.

MIKEY GARCIA

“We were fighting at 140 but I always had my mind set on coming back to lightweight. The only fight that made sense was a unification and the only fighter available was Robert Easter. He’s a champion and the man to beat.

“It’s great to be back to finally give my fans here in Southern California a fight. Now that we are I get to give them a unification match and the biggest fight of my career to date.

“I got my fight on July 28, but there’s been a lot of talk about Lomachenko and me over the past year. If I get through Robert Easter Jr. I’d be unified champ and the only other fight that makes sense is Lomachenko.”

ROBERT EASTER JR.

“Lomachenko and Mikey are two skillful guys in the lightweight division and two guys I want to fight. Me and Mikey will do the talking in the ring.

“My height and my reach will give anyone problems as long as I use it skillfully. It will give anyone problems.

On changing trainers to Kevin Cunningham:

“There were some adjustments we needed to make. I was getting too comfortable. I had to do something to take me out of my comfort zone. Coach Cunningham was the guy to pull me in and get on my tail.”

Las Vegas – UFC® today announced that former UFC and Strikeforce® women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s ‘Modern Wing’ as a member of the class of 2018. The 2018 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Thursday, July 5, at The Pearl at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas. The event will be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS® starting at 7 p.m. PT.

“There would be no women in UFC without Ronda Rousey,” UFC President Dana White said. “Ronda is an absolute pioneer who helped me personally, and a lot of other people, look at women in combat sports differently. She accomplished everything she set out to do with UFC and became a global icon and role model in the process. Today, the women’s divisions are packed with incredibly talented fighters and they produce some of the best fights you’ll ever see. We’re proud to announce Ronda as the first woman to be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame.”

Rousey will enter the UFC Hall of Fame as a member of the Modern Wing, joining Forrest Griffin (2013), BJ Penn (2015) and Urijah Faber (2017) as the only members of this distinguished category. Rousey also joins Faber as only the second athlete to be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame from the bantamweight division. The “Modern Era” category includes athletes who turned pro on or after November 17, 2000 (when the first UFC event under the unified rules of MMA was held), are a minimum age of 35 or who have been retired for one year or more.

“This is an immense honor, to not only take part in bringing women to the forefront of this sport, but now the UFC Hall of Fame,” Rousey said. “May I be the first of many.”

As the first female fighter signed to UFC following the global brand’s purchase of Strikeforce, Rousey was named the promotion’s first-ever women’s bantamweight champion in November of 2012, and she debuted inside the world-famous Octagon® at UFC® 157: ROUSEY vs. CARMOUCHE, on February 23, 2013 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. Ronda defeated Liz Carmouche in the first round via armbar, becoming the first woman to win a UFC bout while defending her title in the process.

A veteran of 14 professional fights during her five-year career, Rousey, the last Strikeforce women’s bantamweight champion and first-ever UFC women’s champion, compiled a record of 12-2, setting numerous records, highlighted by her six consecutive successful title defenses, the most by any female champion in UFC history. During her tenure in UFC and Strikeforce, Ronda secured seven submission victories via armbar, tying UFC Hall of Famer Minotauro Nogueria for most armbar submissions in the combined history of UFC, PRIDE, Strikeforce and WEC.

A prolific finisher, Rousey owns records for four of the five fastest finishes in UFC women’s bantamweight history, while her three wins by KO / TKO rank as the second most in UFC women’s bantamweight history. No other fighter in UFC history owns more than two of the five fastest finishes in their respective division.

Rousey’s average cumulative UFC fight time of 3:06 ranks as the second shortest in UFC history (min. five fights) and her collective Strikeforce fight time of 1:36 ranked as the shortest in company history (min. three fights). Ronda’s 14 second armbar submission victory over Cat Zingano at UFC® 184: ROUSEY vs. ZINGANO, was the fastest submission of the Modern Era and of any title fight in UFC history. Rousey also holds the record for fastest submission in Strikeforce history with her 25-second victory over Sarah D’Alelio during her debut at Strikeforce Challengers: Gurgel vs. Duarte on August 12, 2011.

As one of the most complete mixed martial artists in combat sports history, Ronda also holds numerous records for finishing her opponents via knockout. Her 16 second knockout of Alexis Davis at UFC® 175: WEIDMAN vs. MACHIDA is tied as the third-fastest knockout in a title fight in UFC history. Lastly, her 34-second knockout of Bethe Correia at UFC® 190: ROUSEY vs. CORREIA and 1:06 knockout of Sara McMann at UFC® 170: ROUSEY vs. MCMANN, are the second and fourth-fastest knockouts in UFC women’s bantamweight history, respectively.

Ronda headlined six UFC events during her career, including UFC® 193: ROUSEY vs. HOLM, which was held at Etihad Stadium in Melbourne, Australia on November 15, 2015. UFC 193 recorded a total attendance of 56,214 fight fans, which stands as the largest-attended event in UFC history.

Outside the Octagon, Rousey’s global popularity continued to rise as she was recognized by both her peers and the media with some of the most highly acclaimed awards in sports.

In 2015, Ronda became the first mixed martial artist to win an ESPY award for “Best Fighter,” and she was also acknowledged by ESPN with the ESPY for “Best Female Athlete” in 2014 and 2015, and in 2012 for “Submission of the Year” after her first victory over former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Miesha Tate.

In May of 2015, Sports Illustrated recognized Ronda as “World’s Most Dominant Athlete” as she graced the cover of that month’s issue. Later that month, Rousey also became a published author with the release of her autobiography entitled, “My Fight, Your Fight”, which chronicled her inspiring path from Olympic judo medalist to Hollywood star.

In November of 2015, Ronda became Electronic Arts’ first female global cover athlete with the release of EA SPORTS UFC 2 and also made history as the first woman to be featured on the cover of Men’s Fitness Australia.

While an active UFC athlete, Rousey also became a global movie star, appearing in films such as The Expendables 3, Furious 7 and Entourage, which collectively grossed more than $1.8 billion dollars combined in worldwide sales. She has also headlined popular television shows and series in primetime, hosting Saturday Night Live in 2016 and making a cameo appearance on Blindspot in 2017. Later this year, Rousey will co-star in Mile 22 with Mark Wahlberg and Academy-Award nominated actor John Malkovich.

Along with acting, Rousey is also currently a performer with World Wrestling Entertainment, where she competes weekly as one of the company’s top superstars on Monday Night Raw.

A native of Riverside, California, Rousey’s martial arts career began at age 11, when she started training judo with her mother, AnnMaria, a highly-decorated judoka who became the first American to capture a World Judo Championship in 1984. In 2004, at the age of 17, Ronda won the Gold medal at the World Junior Judo Championships. That same year, she qualified for the 2004 Olympic Games, becoming the youngest judoka to compete in the games that year. In 2006, Rousey won the Bronze medal at the World Junior Judo Championships, becoming the first U.S. athlete to capture two medals at the World Junior Judo Championships. Her ascent as a judoka continued in 2007, as she won the Gold medal at the Pan American Games and Silver medal at the World Judo Championships. In 2008, Ronda captured the Bronze medal at the Olympic Games, making history as the first American to win an Olympic medal in women’s judo since the sport joined Olympic competition in 1992. Overall, Ronda won more than 30 medals and represented the U.S. Judo team in over a dozen international tournaments. She currently resides in California with her husband, UFC heavyweight Travis Browne.

To view Rousey’s UFC FIGHT PASS collection please visit: https://www.ufc.tv/category/ufc-hall-of-fame-ronda-rousey-2018.

To view the UFC Hall of Fame fight library, please visit UFCHOF. To see a complete list of UFC athletes and fights enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame, as well as details regarding the UFC Hall of Fame format, please visit UFCHOFFAQ. For additional information, please visit UFC.com.

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 400 events in 21 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 165 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.

Roberto Garcia will defend his WBC Silver Middleweight title against Martin Murray at The O2 in London on June 23, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

Murray will be looking to put the frustrations of missing out on a shot at the WBO Middleweight World Title behind him when he challenges Mexico’s 41-3 Garcia later this month.

Garcia is currently enjoying a 13-fight winning streak that stretches back to 2010 and will be heading to London full of confidence.

“I was gutted about Billy Joe Saunders pulling out of our fight for a second time but this is a great replacement,” said Murray. “Roberto Garcia is the Champion and he’s willing to travel to the UK so we know he is well up for it.

“He’s been calling me out on Twitter for a while and I’m delighted that we’ve been able to make the fight so quickly. This means that several months of hard training won’t got to waste and I’ll be out on June 23 topping a great show.

“A good win against Garcia will put me in a strong position with the WBC so there’s everything to fight for. It has been a frustrating period of my career and I’ll be taking my anger out on Garcia on June 23 before moving on to even bigger fights.”

“I’m not like Saunders,” said Garcia. “I’m not afraid of Murray. I’m willing to risk my title and come to London to beat Murray in front of his own fans. My promoter Don King will be in London to watch me win in style. Let’s get it on!”

Garcia v Murray tops a talent-packed card that features some of the UK’s finest young fighters including Light-Heavyweight KO artist Anthony Yarde, Heavyweight monster Daniel Dubois in English title action against Tom Little and Hackney talent Ohara Davies.

Further updates to the card will follow this week.

Tickets for Garcia v Murray are available to purchase via www.axs.com

Brooklyn, NY (June 9, 2018) – Tonight, two undefeated member from the El Matador Management stable will be on display at The King’s Theatre in Brooklyn, New York.

Mathew Gonzalez (5-0, 3 KOs) Of Ridgewood, New York will take on Jimmy Rosario (3-6, 2 KOs) in a four-round welterweight bout.

Cesar Francis (4-0, 3 KOs) of Brooklyn, New York battles Victor Abreu (9-3, 5 KOs) in a super lightweight bout scheduled for six-rounds.

“I am excited to see two of my top young undefeated prospects back in action, especially on a show that is geared to the National Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City,” said manager Felipe Gomez of El Matador Management. “A lot of Puerto Rican boxing legends used to fight on major boxing events the night before the Puerto Rican Day Parade and this is what makes it special. I want to give a special shout out to Real Deal Boxing for giving my guys the opportunity to showcase their talents.”

WBA Featherweight World Championship

Leo Santa Cruz – 125 ¼ lbs.

Abner Mares – 125 ½ lbs.

Referee: Thomas Taylor (Newport Beach, Calif.); Judges: Reynante Danseco (California), Zachary Young (California), Steve Weisfeld (New Jersey)

WBC Super Welterweight World Championship

Jermell Charlo – 154 lbs.

Austin Trout – 154 lbs.

Referee: Jack Reiss (Oxnard, Calif.); Judges: Tom Carusone (Connecticut), Eddie Hernandez Sr. (California), Fernando Villarreal (California).

FLASH QUOTES:

LEO SANTA CRUZ: “I always fight for the fans. If I lose, I know I came and gave a great fight for the fans, because that’s what I care most about. I want them to go home happy.

“For me this is not personal. We’re both the best, and we want to prove who is the best and who is No. 1 and who is the best from L.A. There’s no disrespect. Mares is a great guy and a good person; it’s just business. We have to do this.

“I have to be smart. It’s not going to be easy, because I want to please the fans and I have to make it a war and go out there and trade punches. It’s going to be hard because I always try to please the fans. But I have to do it for myself too. We’ll see what happens.”

ABNER MARES: “I let the emotions get the best of me in the first fight, but I have more experience now than three years ago and I’m a more mature fighter, and I’m going to show that come tomorrow night.

“I have to give a good show; there’s no way I’m going to give a bad show. That’s the type of style I bring, and I’m ready for this. Leo’s ready, I’m ready, and it is now just time to show the world that we have reunited and we are both ready to go.”

JERMELL CHARLO: “He says I’m little, but you know I’ll be big tomorrow. My brother just told me, ‘Do what you do.’ Mell and Mall. That’s all.”

AUSTIN TROUT: “I just told him I was ready; he knows we’ve been working and it’s time to go. There’s really not that much talking going on. I’m going to go in there and put on the action.

“Size doesn’t matter. You know, the bigger they are, the harder they fall. We both hit 154 on the button. Head to head. Nose to nose. I’ll push around the bigger guys; I’m ready for this guy. I’m ready for this little guy.

“I’ve felt a sense of urgency my entire career, even when I was undefeated I felt like I can’t lose a fight so I’ve felt that urgency my whole career and that my back’s to the wall and this is what we have to do for every fight.”

Prediction? “My hand’s raised!”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions, begin at $50, plus applicable fees, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit AXS.com or click HERE.

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.staplescenter.com follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @LeoSantaCruz2, @AbnerMares, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

LONDON (8 June, 2018) – One of this summer’s biggest battles will take place live and exclusive on BoxNation when the legendary Manny Pacquiao steps up to face Argentine knockout sensation Lucas Matthysse for his WBA welterweight world title.

Taking place at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur on July 14th, eight-division world champion Pacquiao will be looking to bounce back in style following his shock defeat to Australian ace Jeff Horn.

However, in Matthysse he faces one of boxing’s most formidable punchers, who, with a record of 36 knockouts in 39 wins, always comes with bad intentions.

He displayed that in his latest win when he stopped the previously undefeated Tewa Kiram in the eighth round to win the vacant WBA welterweight world title.

Both men are two of the most exciting, all-action fighters around, with fireworks guaranteed when they meet in the ring next month in their 12-round contest.

“[Matthysse] is a very aggressive fighter. I am not worried about his style. My worry is I need to get 100 per cent conditioned – the stamina, the power and the strength to survive the 12 rounds,” Pacquiao said.

“You will see a young Manny Pacquiao throwing a lot of punches, and more footwork, head movements, side by side [motions] – that’s my goal to achieve for this fight. It’s going to be a great night,” he said.

35-year-old Matthysse can’t wait to get into the ring and has promised BoxNation fight fans that he will make sure Pacquiao is given no respite.

“We’re focused very much on this fight, and people will see the same Lucas Matthysse as always, the one who always looks for the action. It’s a fight that I like because of our similar styles and because we are of the same height,” Matthysse said.

“I expect the same Manny Pacquiao as always. He is a respectable champion, but I’m a champion as well. I’ve been fighting for a long time. I know he has a lot of experience as well.

“It will be a great fight, and I expect to see the same Manny Pacquiao I watched on television. Now I’m going to see him in the ring. This is something very big for me and my career,” he said.

Jim McMunn, BoxNation Managing Director, said: “Manny Pacquiao v Lucas Matthysse without doubt has the makings for a very special and exciting fight. These are two fighters who like to come forward, press the action and can really punch. BoxNation subscribers will be in for a real treat when these two meet live and exclusive on July 14th.”

BoxNation is available on Sky/Freeview/Virgin/TalkTalk/EE/Apple TV/ online at watch.boxnation.com, via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon) and TV Player for just £12 a month. Buy now at boxnation.com.

– ENDS –

About BoxNation

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated boxing channel. From £12* per month with no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Mayweather vs Maidana, Saunders vs Eubank Jr and Canelo vs Golovkin.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.427), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), TV Player, online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (ios, Android, Amazon, Apple TV). BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

Available on selected internet-connected Freeview products only, subject to coverage. Visit freeview.co.uk/availability.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

New York, NY (June 8, 2018)-Undefeated super middleweight DeAndre Ware (11-0-2, 8 KOs) gets back in the ring on Saturday night when he takes on fellow undefeated Enrique Collazo (11-0-1, 9 KOs) in a bout scheduled for eight-rounds at the King’s Theatre in Brooklyn, New York.

Ware weighed in at 168.8 lbs while Collazo was 169 at Friday’s weigh-in.

Ware of Toledo, Ohio is a full-time Fire Fighter, and is making his New York debut.

“I come here to dominate, and show the boxing world who DeAndre Ware is. My time has finally come, and I am going to make the most of it,” said Ware. “During the stare-down, I was looking at his jawline , and saying to myself “Yeah Buddy, that’s where I am going to hit him when I knock him out.”

“DeAndre is a mans-man. He is a full-time firefighter, a full-time boxer, a loving husband, and father of of 2 kids,” said Split-T Management CEO, David McWater. “He has been patiently waiting for his opportunity, and everyone will see one of the best prospects to come out of Ohio.”

Ware is managed by Split-T Management

ABOUT SPLIT-TMANAGEMENT

Headed by David McWater, Split-T Management has amassed one of the top stables in boxing.

Their impressive roster includes:

World Rated Contenders

IBF Super Lightweight Mandatory Title Challenger Ivan Baranchyk

Welterweight “The New” Ray Robinson

Former Bantamweight Title Challenger Antonio Nieves

2016 Olympians

Lightweight Teofimo Lopez

Junior Middleweight Charles Conwell

Bantamweight Antonio Vargas

Undefeated Prospects

Heavyweights: Stephen Shaw, Marcus Carter, Yegor Plevako

Cruiserweights: Joshua Temple, “Mighty” Joe Jones

Light Heavyweights: Joseph Williams, Bortirali Mamajonov

Super Middleweights: Isiah Steen, DeAndre Ware, Isiah Jones

Middleweights: Marquis Moore, Raquel Miller

Junior Middleweights: Ardreal Holmes, Hurshidbek Normatov, Fred Wilson, Jr.

Welterweight’s Janelson Bocachica, Poindexter Knight, Mark Dawson, Boubacar Sylla, Brian Ceballo

Junior Lightweight: Erick De Leon

Former Unified Heavyweight World Champion Tyson Fury picked up his opponent, Sefer Seferi, after scaling 276 ½ pounds at the official weigh-in on Friday for his long-awaited return tomorrow/Saturday at Manchester Arena in Manchester, England. Sereri weighed-in at 210 pounds for their 10-round bout, which will stream live in the U.S. exclusively on SHOWTIME Sports social media platforms.

Fury, a former WBA, WBO and IBF Heavyweight World Champion, will return for the first time in 31 months in the SHOWTIME BOXING INTERNATIONAL® social media offering, which begins live at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT on the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel.

Undefeated 140-pound contenders Terry Flanagan and Maurice Hooker both measured 139 ¼ pounds for their WBO Junior Welterweight World Championship that will serve as the chief support for Fury vs. Seferi.

Live coverage for the Frank Warren-promoted event will be provided by BT Sport with U.K. sportscasters John Rawling providing the blow-by-blow and Richie Woodhall the analysis. Boxing broadcaster Ray Flores and analyst Chris Mannix will deliver pre and post-fight analysis from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles for the SHOWTIME Sports audience.

The live stream of Fury vs. Seferi will precede that evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® doubleheader that features WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz in a highly anticipated rematch against former world champion Abner Mares live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Staples Center. In the co-feature, Jermell Charlo will face Austin Trout for the WBC Super Welterweight World Championship.

Dynamite-fisted Commonwealth Heavyweight Champion Joe Joyce will defend his title and unbeaten record against Ghanaian powerhouse Richard Lartey at the home of London boxing, The York Hall, Bethnal Green, on Friday 15th June, televised live and exclusive on free-to-air Dave.

The ‘Juggernaut’, from Putney in South West London, moves fast to make the first defence of the title that he won only last month at London’s O2 Arena with a devastating second round KO of Lenroy Thomas.

In registering that stunning victory, Joyce became the first ever heavyweight boxer to win the prestigious Commonwealth title in just his fourth fight – and with only 12 professional rounds under his belt.

The 2016 Olympic Silver Medallist made an explosive entry into the professional ranks last October with an eighth round stoppage of the experienced and former British title challenger Ian Lewison.

He followed that up that unheralded debut win with two explosive first round victories this year against Rudolf Jozic in February and then Donnie Palmer in March before facing experienced 21-4 Thomas a tricky southpaw.

Joyce, 32, now faces a stern test against the big-punching Lartey, who fights out of Ghana’s legendary fighting city of Accra that has produced some of Africa’s greatest ever boxers including Azumah Nelson and Ike Quartey.

The 6ft 5in Lartey, previously the Ghanaian Heavyweight Champion, holds a 13-fight record with 12 wins, nine coming by way of knockout and he likes to end fights early with five of those big KOs coming inside the second round. He challenged for the WBC Youth Silver Heavyweight title in December 2014 which resulted in his sole career loss, but has remained undefeated in six fights since.

To download a free to use photo of Richard Lartey CLICK HERE

However, Joyce relishes the challenge and says he is looking forwarding to comparing his firepower to Lartey’s and is confident he will extinguish whatever his opponent brings to the ring.

Joyce said, “The bigger the challenge the better I perform and Lartey looks like he can pack some power in the ring so lets see if he can bring it on against me. Four stoppages in four fights and the Commonwealth title is already ticked off. I’ll be going all out to make Lartey number five, keep hold of my belt and tear it up going forward. I haven’t even be a pro for a year yet, I’m thrilled with my progress so far and there is so much more to come from me, it’s frightening when I think about what I’m going to be doing in the heavyweight division.”

Joyce v Lartey headlines a fantastic fight card that features an array of talent and in the chief supporting contest, Sam Smith and Anisha Basheel clash for the Vacant Commonwealth Female Lightweight title; MMA superstar Michael “Venom” Page, fresh off his Bellator victory last month, returns to the boxing ring and faces Michael Ciash over four rounds at light-heavyweight; female fighting sensation Savannah Marshall, Britain’s first ever female World Amateur Champion, features in a six-round super-middleweight contest; the incredible and inspirational Ruqsana Begum faces Ivanka Ivanova in a rematch after their contest ended in a draw in March and collide over four rounds at super-flyweight; red-hot unbeaten Welsh super-middleweight Kody Davies will face Eric Mokonzo over four-rounds

Completing the card will be Richmond super-middleweight Chris Davies, the exciting pro-debut of heavyweight George Fox, son of renowned trainer Don Charles; Hitchin super-welterweight Tom Ansall, Luton super-welterweight Linus Udofia, Hayes featherweight Fuad Huseen and Rochester super-featherweight Brandon Ball.

Remaining tickets priced at £40 and VIP Ringside Seating at £150 (both subject to booking fee) are available from iboxingtickets.com

Hayemaker Ringstar Fight Night airs live and exclusive on free-to-air Dave from 9pm.

ORANGE, Calif. (June 8, 2018) – Danny Roman (24-2-1. 9 KOs) is close to winding down preparations for his WBA 122-pound title defense against unbeaten and No. 1 challenger Moises Flores (25-0, 17 KOs) set for Saturday, June 16.

The 12-round world championship fight originates from the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Tex., and will be televised on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING beginning at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT.

Roman, 28, will be making the second defense of the title he won via knockout fashion over Shun Kubo last September. He followed up that performance with a resounding decision win over Ryo Matsumoto in February.

Thompson Boxing sat down with the Los Angeles native and got his take on Flores, his training camp, fighting on national TV, and what it feels like to fight in the U.S. once again.

What do you know about your opponent Moises Flores?

“He’s tall so he’ll have that reach. He’ll be ready for the big fight. I’m sure he’s going to come at me with everything that he’s got. I was once the challenger so I know how hungry he’ll be.
All those Mexican fighters come to fight so he’s going to try to take my belt, but I’m not going to let him.”

To prepare for Flores, you loaded up on bigger sparring partners such as junior lightweight Michael Dutchover, lightweight Ruben Torres, and tall super bantamweight Brandon Valdez. What was that like?

“It was great going up against bigger guys. They’re young too so they bring a lot of energy. I’m fortunate that I saw a lot of different styles. They say that fights are won in training camp. I know I got the best possible preparation for my fight against Flores.”

What would a win mean for you and the rest of the 122-pound division?

“I can’t get too focused on that because I know what Flores is capable of. I need to take care of business first before anything else can happen. But if all goes as planned, I would love to fight the rest of the champions. The fans want to see the best fighting the best and I’m all about that.”

This is your second title defense and the first time fighting in the United States in 18 months. Your last two fights – the KO win over Shun Kubo and points victory over Ryo Matsumoto – were both in Japan. How does it feel to be the champion and to finally defend your title in your home country?

“I have a target on my back. Everyone wants the world title, but my mind is more focused than ever. I have to be at my best every fight because every challenger is going to bring it. That’s the hard part, knowing that everyone wants what you have. As far as fighting in the U.S., I love it. No more having to worry about long flights and adjusting to a drastic time zone change. The three-hour flight from Los Angeles to Dallas will feel like a minute.”

You’ll be fighting on Showtime for the second time in your career. Your debut was in Jan. 2017 (ShoBox) in a WBA title eliminator in which you knocked out the highly touted Adam Lopez in the ninth round. The win later set up your title shot versus Kubo. What are your thoughts on returning to national television?

“It feels great getting back on national TV. Ever since I won the title, more and more people want to see my fights. Anyone who watches is going to see an awesome fight. Anyone that has ever seen me fight knows I put on a great show.”

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.

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

DOORS 15.45 HRS

Fight # 1 – 16:00 HRS
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
ZAC BURTON 12st 7lbs V DOMINIK LANDGRAF 12st 9lbs 12oz

Fight # 2
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Heavyweight Contest
ALEX DICKINSON V DAVE HOWE (weigh-in on the day)

Fight # 3
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
LYNDON ARTHUR 12st 8lbs 4oz V CHARLES ADAMU 12st 5lbs 1oz

Fight # 4
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Cruiserweight Contest
JORDAN THOMPSON 14st 4lbs V DMITRI KALINOVSKI 13st 12lbs 8oz

Fight # 5
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Welterweight Contest
JACK McGANN 11st 5lbs 3oz V DWAIN GRANT 11st 6lbs

Fight # 6
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Featherweight Contest
ZELFA BARRETT 9st 6lbs 4oz V EDWIN TELLEZ 9st 5lbs 8oz

BT SPORT BROADCAST GOES LIVE AT 19:00 HRS

Fight # 7 – 19:05 HRS
10 X 3 Minute Rounds Heavyweight Contest
NATHAN GORMAN 17st 11lbs 4oz V SEAN TURNER 18st 9lbs

Fight # 8
THE VACANT WBC INTERNATIONAL SUPER-WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds
J.J METCALF 11st V AITOR NIETO 10st 13lbs 4oz

Fight # 9
THE VACANT WBC INTERNATIONAL SILVER MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds
MARK HEFFRON 11st 5lbs 2oz V ANDREW ROBINSON 11st 5lbs 8oz

Fight # 10
“Frank Warren, for Queensberry Promotions, sponsored by 32Red and FootAsylum and in association with RocNation Sports”
THE VACANT WBO WORLD SUPER-LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds
TERRY FLANAGAN 9st 13lbs 5oz V MAURICE HOOKER 9st 13lbs 4oz

Fight # 11
“Frank Warren, for Queensberry Promotions, sponsored by 32Red and FootAsylum and in association with EC Boxpromotion”
10 X 3 Minute Rounds International Heavyweight Contest
TYSON FURY 19st 10lbs 7oz V SEFER SEFERI 15st 2oz

Fight # 12
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest
SAM MAXWELL 10st 1lb V KANE BAKER 10st

Fight # 13 – Follow On
8 X 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
JACK FLATLEY 11st 8lbs 4oz V TROY WILLIAMSON 11st 6lbs 8oz

Fight # 14 – Follow On
8 X 3 Minute Rounds Cruiserweight Contest
JACK MASSEY 14st 4lbs V IAN TIMS 14st 3lbs 10oz

FRISCO, TEXAS (June 8, 2018) – As unbeaten challenger Carlos Ocampo nears his mandatory world title shot against IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol Spence Jr., Ocampo shared his thoughts on training camp and the upcoming matchup taking place Saturday, June 16 live on SHOWTIME from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features super bantamweight world champion Daniel Roman defending his belt against unbeaten Moises “Chucky” Flores and former world champion Javier Fortuna clashing with Adrian Granados in a 10-round 140-pound special attraction.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions in association with Man Down Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at www.SeatGeek.com.

Here is what Ocampo had to say from training camp with head trainer Rafael Guzman from Guzman’s gym in Ensenada, Mexico:

CARLOS OCAMPO

“This has been a very complete training camp. I feel like we have covered everything we would want leading up to a fight of this magnitude. I’ve taken extra motivation each day into training camp because this fight represents the biggest challenge of my career.

“I know Spence is a very tough fighter, but I can’t say for sure what he’s going to do in the ring. What I do know is, I’ll be ready for whatever it is.

“I actually think the pressure is on him fighting at home. He’s the favorite and I’m the underdog. I’m going to use that hostile crowd to my advantage and as extra motivation to pick up this victory.

“I’m going to make my fans, my family and my team proud with my performance. I’m not worried about what anyone is saying about Spence’s abilities. I’m focused on myself and being at my very best.

“I’m a smart fighter in there. When I need to use the distance, I have the size and skills to do that effectively. If I need to fight on the inside, I can do that too. Everyone will see what I’m made of on June 16.

“My goal is to fight a smart fight. Spence is a great fighter so I know it will take the best performance of my career. I think it’s going to be a war and I plan to come out with my hand raised and the belt around my waist.”

# # #

About The Star
The Star is the 91-acre campus of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters and practice facility in Frisco, Texas. Developed as a first-of-its-kind partnership between the City of Frisco and Frisco ISD, The Star features Ford Center, a 12,000-seat stadium that hosts Frisco ISD football games and other events; Cowboys Fit, a 60,000 square-foot gym developed in partnership with leading fitness developer, Mark Mastrov; Cowboys Club, a members-only club where the country club meets the NFL; The Omni Frisco Hotel, a 16-floor, 300-room luxury hotel; Baylor Scott & White Sports Therapy & Research at The Star, a 300,000 square-foot center of excellence for sports medicine set to open in 2018; as well as a variety of shopping, dining and nightlife options as part of the Entertainment District. For more information on The Star, visit www.TheStarInFrisco.com.

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.thestarinfrisco.com. Follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @ErrolSpenceJr, @PremierBoxing, @TGBPromotions, @TheStarinFrisco and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing and www.Facebook.com/thestarfrisco. PBC is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (June 8th, 2018) — This signature moment in Dinis Paiva’s career, this elusive shot at a world title, almost never came to fruition for the 30-year-old East Providence, R.I., native.

Five years ago, shortly following a loss to Rob Sullivan that dropped his record to 3-5, Paiva decided he was done with mixed martial arts.

“That was it,” Paiva said. “I wanted to quit. I had accepted being a loser.”

It took some convincing, but veteran coach Mike Gresh talked Paiva off the ledge. The rest is history. Paiva (11-6, 6 KOs) has won eight of nine fights since working with Gresh and now fights for the vacant CES MMA Bantamweight World Title next Friday at Twin River Casino against California’s Andre Ewell (12-4, 7 KOs).

The five-round headliner of “CES MMA 50” airs live on AXS TV as part of the televised main card beginning at 9 p.m. ET.

“I’ve paid my dues. I’m not saying I’m better than anyone else, but I feel like it’s my time,” said Paiva, the most prolific active fighter in CES MMA history. “I earned my spot.

“This is a dream come true. I envisioned this moment. I’ve envisioned getting that belt wrapped around my waist.”

The Paiva-Ewell bout is one of 12 on CES MMA’s 50th anniversary celebration. Tickets for “CES MMA 50” start at $40 and are available to purchase online at www.cesmma.com, www.twinriver.com, www.ticketmaster.com, by phone at 401-724-2253 or at the Twin River Box Office. The preliminary card begins at 7 followed by the televised main card at 9.

Paiva’s ascension from also-ran to world-title contender certainly didn’t happen overnight. Gresh’s first move after convincing Paiva to stick with MMA was to work on his fighter’s self-confidence. Then Paiva had to stop worrying about what others think.

At 4-5 following a much-needed win over Franklin Isabel, Paiva signed up to fight at “CES MMA 24” against 11-5 Joe Cushman, whom many thought would be too much for Paiva at that stage in his career.

“There was a lot of talk behind closed doors. People were laughing at me,” Paiva recalled. “People looked at my career, my win-loss record. I was 4-5 fighting a guy like Cushman. It didn’t make sense to a lot of people, but I had the right people around me, people who believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”

And shortly thereafter, Paiva became a believer, too, when he floored Cushman just 49 seconds into the first round of their scheduled three-round bout, by far the biggest win of his career. Always a fan-favorite at Twin River, Paiva soon reached households across the nation through CES MMA’s partnership with AXS TV, debuting on the network at “CES MMA 27” with a win over Matt Doherty.

Just when it seemed like nothing could derail Paiva on his journey to the top of the bantamweight division, his four-fight win streak came to a screeching halt in 2015 against Kody Nordby at “CES MMA 31,” a loss Paiva credits with keeping him grounded following his newfound success.

“Every fight in which I’ve followed the game plan, I won. Against Nordby, I lost. I let everyone get under my skin, including Cody,” Paiva said.

“I actually thank him for it at this point. I needed that. I needed that missing piece to learn how to shut everyone else out and stick to the game plan, and that’s where I found my success.”

Since then, Paiva has gone on another four-game win streak, including three wins on AXS TV, most recently at “CES MMA 48” when he put together one of his most complete performances in a three-round bludgeoning of Kevin Barbarena.

With each win, his confidence in Gresh continues to grow, as does his confidence in himself, setting the stage for Friday’s highly-anticipated battle against Ewell for the world title vacated by Andre Soukhamthath when the inaugural champion signed with the UFC.

“I owe my career to Mike Gresh. He saw something in me,” Paiva said. “I didn’t want to be known as a guy who sells tickets and makes people laugh. He convinced me to work on some things and convinced me if I put the right people around me and open my ears and did as I was told, good things would happen.

“I’m really in my zone now. It’s showed in my last few fights. I’m battle-tested. It took me 15 fights to get here.”

In Ewell, Paiva will test his striking against another battle-tested opponent who actually began his combat sports career as a professional boxer. Ewell made the switch to MMA in 2015 and now makes his CES MMA debut following wins in seven of his last eight bouts, including three consecutive first-round finishes.

This will no doubt be Paiva’s toughest test to date, but he has the advantage of fighting in his own backyard at Twin River, the home of each of his first 17 fights as a professional. Having the crowd behind him might be enough to push him over the top as he aims to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a world champion.

“He’s long, lean, dangerous, likes to be on his feet. Ten of his 12 wins have been by finish,” Paiva said. “I love it. I love a guy that’s going to come forward and press the action. I think I rise to that kind of occasion. I think it’s shown the better the competition I face, the better I perform.

“He’s one of the best guys I’ve fought, but we won’t really know until we get in there. He’s stepping into my territory. I bring a huge fan base. He’ll know who’s house he’s in.”

Also highlighting “CES MMA 50,” Ludlow, Mass., welterweight Jon Manley (11-4, 2 KOs) battles Philadelphia’s Jeremiah Wells (4-1, 2 KOs) and female flyweight sensation Maria Rivera (2-0, 1 KO) of Framingham, Mass., puts her unbeaten record on the line against Mallory Martin (3-2, 1 KO) of Denver.

Woonsocket, R.I., flyweight Jose Lugo (2-0, 1 KO) makes his network television debut against Cortland, N.Y., native Michael Taylor (1-0, 1 KO) while middleweight Pat McCrohan (3-1, 2 KOs) of Berkley, Mass., returns to face red-hot Worcester, Mass., prospect Reginaldo Felix (5-3, 2 KOs). Bantamweight John Douma (3-0, 2 KOs) of Providence also debuts on the AXS TV platform in a highly-anticipated showdown against Nevada’s Adam Acquaviva (5-3, 1 KO).

The preliminary card features a welterweight scrap between veteran Toby Oden (2-2, 1 KO) of Milford, Mass., and newcomer Jeremy Puglia of Long Island, who makes his professional debut. Decorated light heavyweight Fabio Cherant (1-0) returns to face Mansfield, Ohio, native Marquis Allen (1-0, 1 KO) and featherweight Brandon Marotte (1-0, 1 KO) of Hempstead, N.H., battles debut Arslan Otchiyev of West Haven, Conn.

Also on the preliminary card, Milford, Mass., bantamweight Kris Moutinho makes his long-awaited return against New York’s Alfred Jones (3-3, 1 KO) and flyweights Hilarie Rose (0-1) of Norfolk, Mass., and Thais Sousa (0-2) of Miami search for their first career victories in a special female attraction. Light heavyweight Yorgan De Castro (1-0) of Fall River, Mass., faces David White (0-2) of Cumberland, Md.

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

LAS VEGAS (June 7, 2018) – After the months of trash talk, Terence “Bud” Crawford and WBO welterweight champion Jeff “The Hornet” Horn met face to face for the first time.

Crawford (32-0, 23 KOs), the pound-for-pound great from Omaha, Nebraska, is seeking a world title in a third weight class against the unbeaten Horn (18-0-1, 12 KOs).

On the undercard, Jose Pedraza (23-1, 12 KOs), from Cidra, Puerto Rico, will challenge Antonio Moran (22-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-rounder for the WBO Latino lightweight belt; Shakur Stevenson (6-0, 3 KOs), a 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist, will step up in class against Aelio Mesquita (16-1, 14 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight contest; light heavyweight prospect Steve Nelson (10-0, 8 KOs) will take on Dashon Webster (10-1, 6 KOs) in a six-rounder; and 18-year-old super featherweight sensation Gabe Flores Jr (7-0, 5 KOs) will face Jorge Rojas (4-3-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round bout.

And, in a battle of unbeatens, welterweight contender Jose Benavidez (26-0, 17 KOs) will face the iron-fisted Frank Rojas (22-0, 21 KOs) of Caracas, Venezuela, in a 10-rounder.

This is what the main event fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference.

Terence Crawford

“He’s viewing me as this small welterweight. Come fight night, he’ll see otherwise. I just feel like that’s good for him. He’s coming in hungry and determined, and that makes for a good fight. I’m going to be prepared for whatever he brings. Come Saturday, he might get hurt.”

“I’m bigger. I’m stronger. I’m in my prime. And that’s gonna show come Saturday. A lot of people are comparing how he pushed around Pacquiao, but that’s not me. Pacquiao is 5’5, I believe, 5’6. I feel like you’re viewing that and comparing the Gamboa fight, when I got hurt, to this fight. I’ve seen him get hurt. I’ve seen him get dropped. We’re gonna see come Saturday night who’s gonna be getting rocked and dropped.”

“I got a strong will as well. Pressure breaks pipes. A lot of people came into the ring with me with a strong will, and they left with their tail tucked in.”

“I’m going to let the referee {Robert Byrd} do his job, and I’m going to do my job.”

Jeff Horn

“I’m surprised I’m as big of an underdog as I am for the fight. I’m not surprised I am the underdog. Terence Crawford is a great fighter, pound-for-pound, wiped out the super lightweight division. That’s a tough division as well. I’ve made this mistake before. I underestimated a guy that was slightly smaller than me – in the amateurs – and he knocked me down a couple times. I won’t be making that same mistake. Terence, I know he’s put on the size. He’s going to be a nice, strong welterweight. I can’t wait to get in there and prove the doubters wrong.”

“That guarantees a win if you knock the other guy out. If you search for it too much, that’s when it doesn’t come. You can’t just be looking for the knockout all the time, and I just have to fight the best fight I can and rely on even scoring. I feel like back home {against Pacquiao} it was even scoring, and I feel like it will be the same here.”

“I’ve just got to fight my heart out, and that’s all I can do.”

###

Crawford vs. Horn and Pedraza vs. Moran will be streamed exclusively on ESPN+ beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET., while the undercard, including Stevenson-Mesquita, Benavidez-Rojas, Nelson-Webster, and Flores-Rojas will be shown on ESPN+ starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Remaining tickets for Crawford vs. Horn, priced at $500, $300, $200, $100, and $50 (limited availability), can be purchased online through axs.com, charge by phone at 866-740-7711 or in person at any MGM Resorts box office.

Use the hashtag #CrawfordHorn and #PedrazaMoran to join the conversation on social media.
About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International 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 boxing content, fans can watch thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks. This includes hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, Grand Slam tennis, Top Rank boxing, PGA Tour golf, college sports, international rugby, cricket, the full library of ESPN Films (including 30 for 30) and more. Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

LOS ANGELES (June 7, 2018) – Featherweight world champion Leo Santa Cruz and four-time world champion Abner Mares went face-to-face at the final press conference Thursday, two days before they enter the ring for their highly-anticipated rematch this Saturday, June 9 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Also squaring-off at the final press conference were super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo and former world champion Austin Trout, who step into the ring on the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast that begins at 10 p.m. ET/PT (delayed in the West Coast).

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Ringstar Sports and TGB Promotions, begin at $50, plus applicable fees, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit AXS.com or click HERE.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from the Chick Hearn Press Room at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles:

LEO SANTA CRUZ

“The first fight was a really good one, but I think this one will be even better. Mares is a great fighter with a great trainer in Robert Garcia, and that’s the kind of challenge I want. We both want to give the fans great fights.

“I’ve learned a lot from my last few fights. I’m not coming in here worried about losing, I just worry about giving the fans a great show. If Mares is better than me that night, then he will win. But I’ve worked too hard and I’m going to be at my peak on Saturday night.

“I think that Mares has gotten a lot better. Robert Garcia is a trainer who has brought him up to a different level. He’s made a lot of improvements. I learned from the Frampton fights and my dad is a good trainer too. It’s even all the way around and it’s going to be a great fight.

“I think the winner of this fight will be number one in this division. Gary Russell Jr. is a great fighter and I definitely want a rematch of our amateur fight. But me and Abner put a lot of pressure on our opponents and I don’t think Gary would like the pressure from either of us.

“My team motivates me every day in the gym. They’re right next to me running every day towards the same goal. That’s what I love about training camp because it makes me work even harder.”

ABNER MARES

“I could stand up here and tell you what I’m going to do Saturday, but you’ve seen the first fight. You know how exciting the first fight was. I have even more to prove and I’m going to leave it all on the line this time.

“This is going to be an exciting fight. I know Leo has matured as an athlete and fighter by fighting Frampton twice. But if you look at my last couple of performances, they speak for themselves. I think both of us are seasoned and better fighters right now.

“There’s no doubt that the winner of this fight is number one in this division. There’s some great fighters at featherweight, but we’re fighting for the top spot in this division.

“Our focus isn’t on looking for a stoppage. That was my mistake the first fight. I tried to destroy him. I’m going to follow instructions and show I’m the better fighter in there.

“If I win Saturday night, and the fight is just as exciting as the first one, I’m ready for a trilogy. Let’s make it happen.

“I’m going to fight my heart out and win this fight this time. May the best man win. We’re going to give the fans what they want to see. I’m calling this ‘Fight of the Year’ guaranteed.”

JERMELL CHARLO

“My brother and I have been doing this a long time. Austin Trout has done it a long time as well. I’m hoping everyone gets there early, because I’m bringing excitement to the table right from the start.

“Some critics say that me and my brother haven’t fought the people required to be on the pound-for-pound list. My race to the top continues Saturday night to prove all those people wrong.

“A knockout is possible. If he wants that to be the way it goes, then I’m capable. Derrick and I have a great plan that we’re ready to use. None of our experience in the past matters, we’re both 0-0. Anything can happen on Saturday night.

“I look to do what my brother did against Trout, but way better. If that’s with a knockout or just picking him apart, I’m ready. I’m fighting for a lot more than just a win on Saturday. We’re going to keep shining and do what we have to do.

“We want everyone to know that my brother and I come from the trenches. We made it this far, so we’re not stopping now. Nobody is standing in my way. I know Trout wants a belt, but this is the wrong belt to go after.

“I have to deal with Austin Trout. Jarrett Hurd is not my focus right now. I definitely want to unify titles soon and I hope he comes out ringside on Saturday night so I can look at him after this fight. Everyone knows what time it is.”

AUSTIN TROUT

“I’m very excited to be here and have another once in a lifetime opportunity. I believe this is destiny. I’m coming into the lion’s den and I’m going to come out unscathed.

“As great as my win against Miguel Cotto was, I don’t think it compares to this fight here. People complained about Cotto being old after I beat him, but with Jermell, there’s no excuse you can make up. He’s an undefeated world champion, so if I get the win, this is definitely bigger than Cotto.

“I don’t think he’s overlooking me because I bet his brother told him not to sleep on Trout. Everyone’s going to see what I’ve been saying on Saturday night.

“My training camp with Barry Hunter was fantastic. We got all the work in that I needed and Barry is someone who always pushes me to be better than I believe I’m capable of.

“I learned from my mistakes when I fought the bigger brother. I’m going to be even better on Saturday and it’s going to be a totally different result.

“For everyone sleeping on me, you better wake up. It’s going to be an awakening on Saturday night.”

JOSE SANTA CRUZ, Santa Cruz’s Father & Trainer

“Now all there is left to do is wait for fight night. The work up to this point has been done and it has been done well. We are ready to do what needs to be done when the time comes.

“Usually at this point ahead of a fight the biggest feat is to make weight but he had no problem there. Leo was on target weight about a month ago so it’s not something we’re worried about at this point. He’s eating good and maintaining weight well and feeling really strong for this fight.

“Leo is in incredible shape and I am confident he will win on Saturday. I’m sure Abner and his team are going to bring their best and we’re bringing our best too, but on fight night there will only be two who will clash. We’re ready for war.”

ROBERT GARCIA, Mares’ Trainer

“Just the fact that Abner is in my training camp and we communicate so well, it’s given me a lot of confidence. Everyone has done a great job doing their part in camp and I believe we’ve worked on all the tools we need to defeat Leo Santa Cruz.

“Leo is a great fighter but Abner knows he can win this fight. The confidence he’s gained, and how much more seasoned Abner looks since joining my camp, should translate to a strong performance Saturday.

“This has been a really smooth training camp and that’s exactly what Abner needed. We’re primed for a big victory.”

DERRICK JAMES, Charlo’s Trainer

“I think that Jermell has shown a great level of maturity while also being an aggressive fighter. He’s also very positive about what he wants to do every day in camp, and in the ring on Saturday.

“Being able to spar with Errol Spence Jr. every day in camp has definitely helped Jermell. They say it all the time, but iron sharpens iron and that’s the mentality we have to help both guys improve and get to where we know they can get to.

“Austin is a crafty fighter who has a lot of experience and a lot of tools. The most important thing though is that we’re focused on getting Jermell to be the best version of himself on Saturday night.”

RICHARD SCHAEFER, Chairman & CEO of Ringstar Sports

“Finally the wait is over. We waited three years for this rematch. Everyone asked me when this fight was going to happen. Now there’s just two days to go.

“You know it’s a big fight when you have the fight here at the premier venue in Los Angeles, STAPLES Center. These fighters here deserve it, because they are the best fighters in the sport, regardless of division. They’re going to show everyone on Saturday night why we love boxing so much.

“Each of these fights could have been a main event in its own right. I’m glad that these fighters were okay all being together on an event that really elevates the sport of boxing.

“Jermell Charlo is a once-in-a-generation talent in this sport. He has all the skills you need, but also has that one thing that makes you a superstar. He has charisma, and you cannot learn that. However, anyone who is doubting Austin Trout, is making a big mistake. I have no doubt that he’ll be more than ready for this challenge.

“I’ve been fortunate to follow these main event fighters from their first fight, all the way to now, with them being multiple time world champions and fantastic men outside of the ring. Leo and Abner live the kind of lives that make this sport proud. But on Saturday night, may the best man win.

“SHOWTIME delivers week after week of the best fighting the best. This fight is no different and will be another treat for the fans watching on SHOWTIME who have come to expect these great matchups.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President Sports & Events Programming, Showtime Network Inc.

“These four guys up here have been on SHOWTIME a combined 41 times. That’s a lot and it doesn’t happen by accident. The reason it happens is because these fighters embody everything we want SHOWTIME Boxing to be about. They have some of the strongest resumes in the sport. None of these guys have ever shied away from taking a tough fight. They don’t come with excuses, they want the best and biggest fights. We’ ae proud to have all four of them on SHOWTIME.

“Right now we have a matchup between two of the biggest stars and faces of Southern California boxing. The featherweight division has seen top five fighters on SHOWTIME already this year-This is a rematch between two more of the top 5. In the first fight, they threw a combined 2,000 punches, which I would bet will be matched again on Saturday.

“Austin Trout has been in there with the biggest and best stars in the sport of boxing. But Jermell has quite a bit of momentum. He has four consecutive stoppages, which is very impressive at the championship level. As everyone has said this is another main event quality matchup and I look forward to seeing it on Saturday night.”

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.staplescenter.comfollow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @LeoSantaCruz2, @AbnerMares, @Ringstar, @TGBPromotions @STAPLESCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.facebook.com/STAPLESCenter.PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

MANCHESTER, United Kingdom (June 7, 2018) – Undefeated 140-pound contenders Terry Flanagan and Maurice Hooker faced off on Thursday just two days before they meet for the vacant WBO Junior Welterweight World Championship on Saturday at Manchester Arena.

Flanagan vs. Hooker serves as the chief support for the long-awaited return of former unified heavyweight world champion Tyson Fury. Both bouts will stream live exclusively to U.S. audiences on the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page and SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET/1:30 p.m. PT.

Live coverage for the Frank Warren-promoted event will be provided by BT Sport with U.K. sportscasters John Rawling providing the blow-by-blow and Richie Woodhall the analysis. Boxing broadcaster Ray Flores and analyst Chris Mannix will deliver pre and post-fight analysis from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles for the SHOWTIME Sports audience.

The live stream of Fury vs. Seferi will precede that evening’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® doubleheader that features WBA Featherweight World Champion Leo Santa Cruz in a highly anticipated rematch against former world champion Abner Mares live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast) from Staples Center. In the co-feature, Jermell Charlo will face Austin Trout for the WBC Super Welterweight World Championship.

Here’s what Flanagan and Hooker had to say on Thursday:

Terry Flanagan

“I’m more than ready. I’ve prepared well, and I’m expecting a good night.”

“Of course he believes in himself, like the last few Americans that have come over. He’s just another American I’m going to add to the list.”

“I’m confident. I’m stronger and I’m bigger, fitter.”

“I’m more than ready. I know what he’s going to bring, and I’m prepared for the best Maurice Hooker. … I think I need to step up now and show people what I’m about.”

(On moving up a weight class) “It’s five pounds, it’s nothing. I’m plenty big enough to move up again. I’m 5-foot-10. I’m big, I’m strong, I’m ready for this weight. This is my natural weight. … I’ll get a title at this weight and then see what happens from there.”

“There’s nothing he can do now or that I can do now to change how the fight is going to go. It’s all about getting in there and being 100 percent switched on ready, and we’re going to have a fight Saturday night.”

Maurice Hooker

“I love being the underdog – I’ve been the underdog my whole life, and look where I’m at now. I’m ready to fight Saturday, and Terry’s ready to fight. I’m going to punch him in the mouth, and I hope he punches me back – if not, he’s in trouble.”

“We’re going to put on a good show come Saturday night. He’s in good shape, and I’m in good shape. We can go 12 rounds real hard, or it might be an early night for Terry.”

“I’m back now and better than ever. I’m ready to show the whole world who I am. Before that fight with Darleys Perez, everybody was scared to fight me. I’m still that monster, I’m still that dog. Come Saturday night, I’m going to punch him in the mouth and I might knock him out in the first round.”

“Come Saturday night, I pray for him, because I mean business when I get in that ring.”

“It’s my best against his best. We’ve got a fight Saturday night, so don’t blink.”

Philadelphia, Penn. (June 7, 2018)–Tyrone Crawley, Jr. will fight Ricardo Garcia in the eight-round junior welterweight main event on Friday, August 10th at SugarHouse Casino.

In the eight-round co-feature, Clarence Booth battles Victor Vazquez in a junior welterweight bout.

The card is promoted by KIng’s Promotions.

Crawley of Philadelphia has a record of 7-1.

The 32 year-old is a 6-year professional who won his first even bouts.

In his last bout, Crawley had to retire after round three of his bout with Anthony Mercado. Crawley was winning the fight until he suffered a wrist injury.

Garcia of The Dominican Republic has a record of 14-3 with nine knockouts.

The 31 year-old Garcia is a two year professional who won his first 14 bouts.

He won The Dominican Republic Super Lightweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over undefeated Francisco Aguero (13-0).

Garcia is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision defeat to undefeated Montana Love on May 5th in Johnstown, Pa.

Booth of Saint Petersburg, Florida has a record of 15-4 with eight knockouts.

The 30 year-old Booth is seven-year professional who won 13 of his first 14 bouts, which included wins over Luis Joel Gonzalez (11-2-1), Osenohan Vazquez (8-2-1), Jonathan Perez (5-0) & Marcus Powell (1-0).

Booth is coming off a 4th round stoppage defeat to Dadashev (8-0) on November 11, 2017 in Fresno, California.

Vazquez of Yonkers, New York has a record of 10-4 with four knockouts.

The 22 year-old Vazquez is a four year professional who has wins over David Gonzales (8-2-2), Garcia (14-0), Jerome Conquest (6-1) & Bienvenido Diaz (2-0).

Vazquez is coming off being stopped in seven rounds to Josue Vargas on April 21st in Brooklyn, New York.

A FULL UNDERCARD WILL BE ANNOUNCED SHORTLY

Tickets are on sale for $100, $75, $50, and can be purchased at SugarHousecasino.com

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Long Island, New York, June 7, 2018

The entire card for Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing’s, Rockin’ Fights 31 weighed in today at Modell’s Sporting Goods in Huntington Station on Long Island. All ten fighters looked fit and ready to go, ahead of tomorrow’s stellar night of fights at The Paramount in Huntington, Long Island. Tickets can still be purchased HERE. Doors open at 7:00PM, and the first bout is set for 7:45PM.

Weigh-In Results:

8-ROUND JR. WELTERWEIGHT MAIN EVENT
DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ: 139.4 lbs.
JUSTIN SAVI: 136 lbs.

6-ROUND WELTERWEIGHT BOUT
TYRONE “PRETTY BOY” JAMES: 148.8 lbs.
KAESEN FREEMAN: 150.4 lbs.

6-ROUND WELTERWEIGHT BOUT
JOHNNY “THE HITMAN” HERNANDEZ: 136.2 lbs.
JUAN de la cruz RODRIGUEZ: 137.8 lbs.

6-ROUND FEATHERWEIGHT BOUT
MICHAEL STOUTE: 124.8 lbs.
ANDREW STRODE: 124.6 lbs.

4-ROUND WELTERWEIGHT BOUT
JOHNATHAN ARROYO: 148.2 lbs.
ANTHONY WOODS: 153.4 lbs.

GONZALEZ vs SAVI
MAIN EVENT PROMO

GET YOUR TICKETS TO ROCKIN’ FIGHTS 31 TODAY!
FIGHT: FRIDAY, JUNE 8TH, 2018
$50, $60, $100, $150, $200
BUY TICKETS HERE!

FACTS:
Featured in the main event is Queens native, DANNY “EL GALLO” GONZALEZ who is in search of his eighth consecutive win at The Paramount. See the next generation of New York rising stars such as TYRONE JAMES, MICHAEL STOUTE, JOHNNY HERNANDEZ and JOHN ARROYO.

*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 31 Announcement
Karperis vs. Gonzalez Main Event Announcement
Tyrone James The Next Undefeated Prospect to Come Out Of The Paramount?
New Main Event: Danny Gonzalez vs Justin Savi
Johnny Hernandez Fight Announcement
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.

ESPN+ has debuted its newest boxing brand, Camp Life, a series that takes fans inside the training camps of today’s biggest fighters for intimate and penetrating looks at boxers’ lives as they prepare for battle. The premiere episode visits pound-for-pound elite Terence “Bud” Crawford at his training camp in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and gives fans an opportunity to take a peek behind the curtain of one of boxing’s modern greats as he prepares for his bout against WBO welterweight champion Jeff “The Hornet” Horn, June 9 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

“Camp Life” is available now live and exclusively in the United States on ESPN+ — the recently-launched multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN.

Crawford (32-0, 23 KOs), a former lightweight and undisputed junior welterweight champion, is moving up in weight to challenge Horn (18-0-1, 12 KOs), the Brisbane, Australia, native who won the title last July with a thrilling unanimous decision victory over living legend Manny Pacquiao.

Crawford vs. Horn and Jose Pedraza vs. Antonio Moran will stream live and exclusively in the United States Saturday, June 9 at 9:30 p.m. ET. on ESPN+. Undercards will stream live on ESPN+ beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo,facebook.com/espndeportes; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing,twitter.com/trboxeo, @ESPN @ESPNBoxeo,@ESPNDeportes. Use the hashtag #CrawfordHorn to join the conversation on social media.

About ESPN+
ESPN+ is the first-ever multi-sport, direct-to-consumer subscription streaming service from The Walt Disney Company’s Direct-to-Consumer & International segment in conjunction with ESPN. It offers fans thousands of additional live events, on-demand content and original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks.

The ESPN+ lineup includes 18 exclusive, live Top Rank events per year, dozens of fights from other Top Rank undercards, an unmatched library of the greatest fights in boxing history, and two exclusive, original boxing programs: The Boxing Beat with Dan Rafael (Tuesdays) and In This Corner (twice monthly).

It also features hundreds of MLB, NHL and MLS games, Grand Slam tennis, PGA Tour golf, college sports, international rugby, cricket, the full library of ESPN Films (including 30 for 30) and more. Fans can subscribe to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month (or $49.99 per year) and cancel at any time.

ESPN+ is an integrated part of the completely redesigned ESPN App. Already the leading sports app, the new ESPN App is the premier all-in-one digital sports platform for fans and is a showcase of the company’s culture of innovation. With a richer, increasingly more personalized experience, the new ESPN App curates all of ESPN’s incredible content into an experience unique to each fan’s individual tastes. ESPN+ is also available through ESPN.com.

HARTFORD, Conn. (June 7, 2018) – Hartford boxing prospect “The Special One”Sharad Collier has overcome tougher obstacles in life than he may ever face in the ring.

The two-time New England Golden Gloves champion will make his professional debut Saturday night, June 16, on Hartford Boxing Promotions’ inaugural event, “Fight Night at The Capital”, at Xfinity Centre in Hartford.

“I’m excited to make my pro debut at home in Hartford,” Collier said. “Fans are going to see a whole new beast: more power, speed and I’m not just in the ring to fight. I’m going to put on a show. Here’s what ‘Special’ stands for: S is for speed, P for power, E for enthusiasm, C for charisma, I for intelligence, A for – athleticism, L is for the looks.”

Universal Boxing Federation (UBF) All America light heavyweight champion Richard “Popeye The Sailor Man” Rivera (7-0, 6 KOs) will defend his title and fight Mexican challenger Jaime “Zarco” Solorio (12-3-2, 9 KOs) in the eight-round main event. They will also fight for the vacant ABF Continental Americas Championship.

The 21-year-Collier, who will fight Ohio’s Antonio Castillo, Jr. (1-0) in a four-round Special Welterweight Attraction, has dedicated his boxing career to his uncle and father. His uncle was murdered three years outside of a venue in which Sharad was boxing and, sadly, his father has been in and out of prison. Collier grew up in toughest part of (south) Hartford, spent time in a detention center and, at times, lived in and out of foster homes.

“I’ve been through a lot in life,” the charismatic Collier admitted. “I’ve had to fight my whole life. My goals include becoming world champion, making good money, and buying a house. I have two kids and I want them to have a better life than I did. I love boxing and it’s my way out.”

Undefeated Danbury, CT lightweight Omar “The Beast” Bordoy, Jr. (5-0, 1 KO) will fight in his first scheduled six-round bout versus. Alexander “El Bravo” Picot (2-5-1), fighting out of Hartford by way of Puerto Rico.

Also fighting on the undercard, all in four-round bouts, are Hartford featherweight Luis “Lobito” Rivera (4-3) vs. Phillip Davis (1-1-1), of Worcester, MA; pro-debuting New Haven, CT lightweight Anuel Rosa vs. Cleveland’s Roger Blankenship (1-3), New Britain, CT featherweight Nathan Martinez in his professional debut vs. New Bedford’s (MA) Henry Garcia (0-1), Hartford lightweight Jose Maysonet vs. Justin Morales, of New Bedford, MA, in a battle of pro-debut fighters, and another pair of pro debut fighters, Bridgeport, CT featherweight Jacob Marrero vs. Jimmy Santiago, of New York City, and New Haven junior welterweight prospect Jeffrey Torres (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA..

Boxing’s rich roots in the Hartford market dates back nearly a full century, headlined by International Hall of Famers Willie “Will o’ the Wisp” Pep and Christopher “Battling” Battalino. Other top-area boxers include world champion Marlon “Magic Man” Starling, world title challengers Gaspar “El Indio” Ortega, and Israel “Pito” Cardona, and 1996 USA Olympic Boxing Team captain Lawrence Clay-Bey.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $80.00, $60.00 and $40.00, are on sale and available to purchase, as well as $125.00 VIP tickets that include food and soft drinks), at Ticket Master outlets or at the Hartford Boxing Center gym.

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

Sponsors include Hot 93.7 FM, Hartford Boxing Center, Foster Buddies Network and HBC ProShop.

FIGHT tickets to the highly anticipated July 14 title fight between
champion Lucas Matthysse and Manny Pacquiao went on sale yesterday at
the famous Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur.

The Axiata Arena’s ticketing office went online with myticket.asia or
through direct link
.
For other inquiries, parties can contact the Axiata offices: +603
8605-0195.

The Axiata Arena ticketing office has been receiving a lot of
inquiries regarding ticket sales since April when Pacquiao and
Matthysse announced their fight in press conferences in Manila and
Kuala Lumpur. As of press time yesterday, a large number of tickets
have already been sold.

Ticket prices are pegged at $5,000, $2,000, $1,000, $500, $350, $250
and $125. Corporate box rooms are also available.

The most exciting boxing event in the last four decades unfolds in
Malaysia featuring four world championships, including Pacquiao’s bid
to win the World Boxing Association’s welterweight crown against
Matthysse, the dangerous Argentine champion.

The 16,000-seat venue is expected to be sold out as MP Promotions
Kuala Lumpur (MPKL) has assembled an all-star cast of fighters from
all over the world, from China to India, to South Africa, Mexico among
others.

The long wait for the ticket release was timed well in order for the
fans to avail of huge discounts. The new Malaysian government of Tun
Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad, the recently-elected Prime Minister,
eliminated the old GST or the goods and service tax. The six percent
(6%) GST was previously implemented on goods and services.

Pacquiao, the only eight-division and 10-time world boxing champion,
is also the promoter of this fight with his MPKL company trying to
equal, if not surpass the greatest boxing event in this country since
Muhammad Ali and Joe Bugner fought in 1975.

“This is what we have been waiting for. Let’s get on with the fights,”
said Pacquiao, who has already logged in more than 20 rounds of
sparring.

Aside from the Pacquiao Vs Matthysse championship, three other title
fights will heat up the event. Edivaldo “Indio” Ortega of Mexico,
26-1-1 (12 KOs) locks horns with unbeaten Cebu City pride and Filipino
Jhack Tepora,21-0, (16 KOs)in a world featherweight championship.

Carlos Canizales of Venezuela, the unbeaten light flyweight champion
with a 20-0-1 (16 KOs) record will stake his crown against Chinese
sensation Lu Bin, an amateur standout with a sterling amateur career.

Veteran Moruti Mthalane of South Africa, 35-2 (24 KOs) will battle it
out with Muhammad Waseem of Pakistan, 8-0 (6 KOs) for the IBF
flyweight crown.

Derbyshire destroyer Jack Massey isn’t expecting the judges to inhibit his charge to the British cruiserweight title.

Though he has halted just six of his 13 paid victims thus far, the 25 year old former ABA cruiserweight king has latterly developed the patience to compliment his potent punching and the consequences have been catastrophic for his recent competition.

Two of his last four victims – both good men with records heavily in the black – failed to make their way through the opening session.

‘I actually like to take my time and ease into a fight but if I catch ‘em. I’m on ‘em,’ says the 6ft 4in MTK managed, Robert Rimmer Jr coached prospect who resurfaces after eight months inactivity against ex Irish and Celtic champion Ian Tims in a scheduled eight rounder in the prelude to Tyson Fury’s ring return at Manchester Arena on Saturday.

‘One of my fans called out ‘One Smack Jack’ during my pro debut and it just caught on. Other boxers assure me I punch very hard with BOTH hands. My stoppage wins have been proper knockouts. If I catch them clean, they go over.

‘I’ve knocked most of my opponents down but, early on in my career, I’d jump straight on ‘em and I’d rush in to finish them and get wild. When you chase the knockouts, they don’t happen. Also, it was hard to finish journeymen who hid under their shell but, in longer fights against better quality opposition, you’ll see more spectacular knockouts from me.’

In contrast to most who share his profession, the cruiser cruncher’s destructive instincts were not a product of the frustrations of the inner city. He was born and raised in the sleepy market town of Chapel-en-le -Frith deep into the rolling Peak District hills. However, there is boxing in his breeding.

‘Grandad boxed in the army and Dad had a handful of amateur fights. He was a big boxing fan with loads of video tapes that I loved watching. Like most kids, Mike Tyson was my favourite. ‘Baddest Man on the Planet!’ disclosed mallet-fisted Massey.

‘My older brother Daniel won a few national (junior) titles and I just followed to the Buxton ABC gym when I was 12.

‘I had 54 amateur bouts and my losses were in single figures. I won two junior ABA titles, three national CYPs, a Tri Nations gold medal plus a bronze in the Commonwealth Youth Games representing England over in the Isle of Man.

‘In 2013, a week after my 20thbirthday, I beat Chris Billam-Smith to win the senior ABA title. I also outpointed (Olympic light-heavy bronze medallist)Joshua Buatsi, in one of our two amateur fights.

‘But I became bored with the amateur scene after struggling to get selected for the GB set-up. I finished my amateur career at the Northside gym in Manchester, training alongside (ex-British and two-weight Commonwealth pro champion)Craig Watson and, watching him, decided that professional boxing was what I wanted to do.’

Despite his obvious pedigree, the part-time stonemason has been restricted to just 13 starts since shedding his singlet in July 2013.

‘I’ve had a lot of bad luck…especially a bad injury to my nose. But now that I’ve done deals with MTK and Frank Warren I expect the big fights to start rolling in,’ claims Jack.

‘It shouldn’t be long before I’m challenging for major titles. I believe I’m already one of the best in the cruiserweight division.

‘OK, Okolie v Chamberlain at the O2 recently wasn’t a great fight but it brought a lot of interest to our division. There’s loads of good fights to be made. Like the heavyweights, us cruisers are big explosive guys who bring a lot of kayos.

‘I’ve sparred lads like Matty Askin, Tommy McCarthy, (ex WBA ‘interim’ boss)Youri Kalenga, a very tough African over in Spain. Earlier in my career I did hard rounds with Tony Bellew. I’m ready for big fights. Absolutely!

‘All I need is a bit more experience before I can think of challenging the winner of Watkins-Okolie for the Commonwealth or (current British champ) Matty Askin. The titles are there for the taking.’

And ‘One Smack Jack’ will be looking to execute another Massey-cre against 38 year old Dubliner Tims in their appetiser to Fury’s comeback, screened by BT this weekend.

‘I intend watching Tyson’s return with another explosive win under my belt,’ states Massey a prolific ticket seller who regularly shifts over 800 tickets when he headlines in nearby Buxton.

‘I’m hoping to bring at least 200 to Manchester and I hope my fans get to see a good fight because I’m getting complaints when they pay good money and it ends in less than a round. But I expect a win by late stoppage.

‘Ian’s clearly a tough guy, quite tight (defensively)but he’s getting on a bit and a good bit shorter than me. Style wise, he should suit perfectly. I’ll be looking to keep him on the end of my long arms and gradually take him apart.

‘I think I’m going to go far, win British and world titles. I’m going to be in plenty of good fights and deliver plenty of big knockouts. I’ve a great jab, can box, punch, I’m exciting. What more do you need?!’

Tickets for He’s Back are available purchase NOW via the Manchester Arena on www.manchester-arena.com and tel: 0844 847 8000.

Tickets for this unmissable event start from just £40.

07 June 2018 – Manila, Philippines: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced the main event for ONE: REIGN OF KINGS, set for the Mall of Asia Arena on Friday, 27 July. In the main event, Kevin “The Silencer” Belingon of Baguio City, Philippines will take on Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Sydney, Australia for the ONE Interim Bantamweight World Championship.

In addition, two blockbuster bouts have also been announced. Rising Thai superstar Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai makes his way to Manila to face former ONE Lightweight World Champion Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki, while the legendary Renzo Gracie returns to action in his final farewell match to face veteran Yuki Kondo.

Ticket information for ONE: REIGN OF KINGS is available at www.onefc.com.

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “With reigning bantamweight king Bibiano Fernandes not available until later this year due to injury, Kevin Belingon and Martin Nguyen will square off for the ONE Interim Bantamweight World Championship. It’s a great match-up between two heavy-handed power punchers, and one that will surely leave fans at the edge of their seats. Don’t miss ONE: REIGN OF KINGS when it hits Manila this July.”

Kevin Belingon, ONE Athlete, stated: “As one of the top bantamweights in ONE Championship, I am willing to take on all comers. It doesn’t matter to me who is the opponent. In fact, I am honored to face Martin Nguyen, a two-division world champion. If I can beat Martin, it would be huge. This is a great position I am in, and I am excited for this bout. It will be action-packed, for sure.”

Martin Nguyen, ONE Featherweight & Lightweight World Champion, stated: “Bibiano [Fernandes] should watch this fight with a close eye. He knows who the rightful challenger is. It’s either me or Kevin, and I will be doing everything in my power to finish this one. This is a fan-friendly match-up between two aggressive, young beasts, and I can’t wait to lock horns with Kevin. There will be fireworks.”

Kevin “The Silencer” Belingon of the famed Team Lakay in Baguio City, Philippines is one of the country’s most talented martial artists. With a professional record of 18-5, the Filipino wushu champion and former world title challenger is known as a fierce competitor with the ability to finish opponents in a variety of methods. The 30-year-old wushu stalwart owns eight huge knockouts on his resume, and is one of the most feared strikers in ONE Championship’s deep bantamweight division. In his last bout, Belingon overwhelmed former world title challenger Andrew Leone to win by scintillating second-round knockout. Belingon will now face Martin Nguyen for the ONE Interim Bantamweight World Championship.

Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen is one of the most highly-regarded martial arts world champions. With an impressive 11-2 professional record, which includes three submissions and seven knockouts, Nguyen’s well-around skill set allows him to perform at the highest level of competition. 10 of Nguyen’s 11 wins have come by exciting finish. In November of 2017, Nguyen scored a scintillating knockout victory over the Philippines’ Eduard Folayang to become the first man in the history of ONE Championship to hold two world titles simultaneously in different weight divisions, reigning as both ONE Featherweight & Lightweight World Champion. In his last bout, the 29-year-old came away with a close split decision against rising star Christian Lee in a successful defense of his featherweight world title. Nguyen makes a quick turnaround to face Kevin Belingon for the ONE Interim Bantamweight World Championship.

Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai of Bangkok, Thailand is one of the most thrilling offensive innovators in ONE Championship. The creator of the OneShin Striking System, Wiratchai developed his own martial arts style, which incorporates various elements from Muay Thai, boxing, wrestling, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Training out of Tiger Muay Thai and Bangkok Fight Lab, the 29-year-old has emerged as Thailand’s biggest and most exciting martial arts star. In his most recent contest, Wiratchai finished Rahul Raju with a quick 21-second one-punch knockout, and elevated his record to 9-2 (1 NC). Wiratchai will take on his biggest challenge yet when he faces the legendary Shinya Aoki.

Global martial arts veteran Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki of Shizuoka, Japan is one of the world’s most decorated athletes. He is a DREAM Lightweight Champion, a Shooto Welterweight Champion, and former ONE Lightweight World Champion. The 35-year-old is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under the famed Yuki Nakai, and has won multiple grappling tournaments all over the world. Aoki also holds a black belt in judo, and is widely considered one of the best pure grapplers in martial arts today. He owns a professional record of 40-8 (1 NC), and has 25 submissions and three technical knockouts to his credit. In his most recent bout, Aoki finished Rasul Yakhyaev with a first-round triangle choke submission. Now, he looks to regain his status among the promotion’s top lightweights as he takes on rising star Shannon Wiratchai.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu legend Renzo Gracie of the famed Gracie family will resume his legendary mixed martial arts career in ONE Championship after eight years since his last professional bout. A former world champion with a 13-7 record, Gracie has faced the biggest names in the sport and is a skilled veteran with years of competition experience under his belt. He makes his way back into the spotlight for the last time to face the veteran Yuki Kondo.

Mixed martial arts veteran Yuki “Sora” Kondo of Japan has more than 100 professional bouts on his resume, lending his talents to famed Japanese mixed martial arts promotion Pancrase for the greater part of the last two decades. Beginning his professional career in 1996, Kondo has amassed an incredible 60-34-9 record, which includes 19 knockouts and 17 submissions. He makes his ONE Championship debut this July against the legendary Renzo Gracie.

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 136 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.

Whyte is on the cusp of World title action destroyed Lucas Browne with a devastating sixth round KO of the Australian in London in March to defend the WBC Silver title and number one ranking he’d landed by beating Robert Helenius in Cardiff in October.

Parker is back in the UK after fighting in the Welsh capital in an historic unification battle with Anthony Joshua in March, with Whyte’s old foe handing a first career defeat for the New Zealand star on points. Parker is in Britain for the third fight in a row having made his second defence of his WBO crown against Hughie Fury in Manchester in September 2017.

“There’s going to be blood, pain and a knockout,” said Whyte. “I’m bang up for this.

“He’s a good fighter but he didn’t show much courage against Joshua. I want him to be more adventurous and not go on the run, but he knows that if he has a fight against me, he’s getting knocked out clean and in a brutal way.

“I like challenges and I rise to them, this is a big fight. There’s a massive incentive for me to wipe him out and show the world that I am ready to be the top man in the division – I want a World title and I know I can beat Deontay Wilder and Joshua.

“We’re back at The O2, it’s always a great atmosphere inside the arena and I’ll be looking to get a similar result to my last fight there.

“Beating Parker should almost guarantee me a World title shot but let’s see. He’s going to be very desperate, I’m expecting the best Joseph Parker because he can’t afford to have back to back defeats, but that’s exactly what he’s going to get, and it’s going to be another massive KO win for me at The O2.”

“We’ve both been in with AJ. One of us ended the fight on our feet, the other didn’t. That pretty much speaks for itself,” said Parker – the only fighter to so far take Joshua the full distance.

“I’m really looking forward to fighting Dillian. He’s got a big mouth and says some funny things – and he’s also highly entertaining in the ring. It’ll be an incredible fight. There’s no doubt about that.

“I’m really happy with how things have things have worked out. I know it took a lot of hard work from my team to get this over the line.”

“This fight came out of nowhere and I can’t quite believe it’s happening,” said Whyte’s promoter Eddie Hearn. “Two guys that will fight anyone agreed a fight within hours and now we have the prospect of a brilliant Heavyweight match up that will play a major part in shaping the division.

“Dillian has become a major force and Joseph is putting it all on the line after taking AJ the distance for the first time. Both want a return shot at the title and a win in such a high profile match up will be more effective than any eliminator-this could be a classic.

“We are planning a big night and a huge card at The O2 on July 28 and I really do take my hat off to Dillian and Joseph for taking on this challenge.”

“This a proper 50-50 fight,” said Parker’s promoter David Higgins. “It could go either way. That makes it the most interesting Heavyweight fight this year.

“It’s the people’s eliminator. Whyte shook up Joshua and Parker is the first man to take him the distance. There’s no doubt the winner should move into a mandatory challenger spot.

“Dillian’s a good fighter who takes chances. He’s incredibly dangerous. We saw that with the way he KO’d Lucas Browne. Joseph will have to deal with a physical and verbal onslaught – but he’s well and truly up for the challenge.

“He’s coming off what is probably the second biggest pay per view event in European history and has already earned respect with the British public. His goal is to shut Whyte up by knocking him out and then get a rematch with Joshua – with a different referee.

“Boxing is the riskiest business in the world. A promoter’s job is to find the best opportunity for their boxer. That means keeping all options on the table.

“I make no apologies for making the best possible deal for Joseph Parker. The reality is no deal was ever going to without the Parkers being fully satisfied with what was on the table.

“This fight is a great opportunity for Joseph and for Dillian. It’s a fight the world wants to see.

“Yes, we were negotiating with Jennings but we were also negotiating with other parties. In the end, Eddie and I managed to make a deal that has led to what will be one of the most compelling Heavyweight fights of the year.

“It’s a real credit to Eddie and Dillian that we’ve been able to make this fight happen. They’ve been confident and decisive from the outset – and that was a huge factor in getting us to where we are today.”

An announcement on ticket details will be made tomorrow.

This weekend, Moston masher Lyndon Arthur gets to state his case that he, rather than Londoners Anthony Yarde or Joshua Buatsi, represents the best long-term bet of adding to England’s haul of five world light-heavyweight champions.

Since being extended the full four round distance on his September 2016 pro debut, the 6ft 2in Manc slaughterman has savaged his last nine quarry inside five rounds (one disqualification win) and is creating quite a commotion in his native north-west.

On Saturday, in a warm-up act to lineal world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury’s ring return at Manchester Arena, ‘King Arthur’ steps up against Ghana’s former Commonwealth Super-Middleweight champion Charles Adamu in a scheduled six rounder.

‘People are continually saying Anthony Yarde, Anthony Yarde, Anthony Yarde….!’ says the 26 year old Steve Wood managed starlet who is coached by his cousin Pat ‘Black Flash’ Barrett, the former British and European 10st champion and ex world welterweight challenger at the world famous Collyhurst and Moston Lads gym.

‘Look, it will happen if we both keep winning. But right now, I have my path to focus on and Yarde has his. It’s likely to be built up over a few years but if we both keep winning, we will get there.’

With an amateur CV listing 50 bouts, several England vests and WSB representation, the former two-time Senior ABA finalist’s pedigree far eclipses that of ‘The Beast’ from east London. However, sans singlet, terminator Yarde has left 14 of his 15 paid opponents kissing the canvas and is already highly ranked by both the WBO and IBF.

‘I’m constantly asked but I refuse to compare us,’ continues Arthur.

‘We’re rivals but I don’t disregard what Anthony’s achieving. He’s a very good fighter. I rate him highly. I congratulate any success in any walk of life, I wish there were no poor people and everybody could do well. But that’s not life. Provided Anthony treats me well, he’ll hear no badmouthing from me. But when we do get there, I believe that I have the attributes to beat him.

‘I don’t need to call people out. The fight is inevitable if we’re to get to where we want to be. Time will tell but I’m very confident in my ability to rise above both him and Joshua Buatsi. I just believe in myself.

‘You don’t ever want to be a loser when you love this sport as much as I do. I’m not in boxing to concede anyone is better than me….and that includes Mr Anthony Yarde.’

‘King Arthur’ commenced his pro career 16 months later than Yarde, has engaged in five fewer fights and is yet to confront an opponent with a winning slate. However, given he didn’t have a competitive bout until he was 19, the brutal manner in which he has butchered a list of battle-hardened circuit fighters merits serious attention.

‘Having studied each of my opponents in advance, I’ve expected to get rounds out of them. It’s not that I’ve beaten them, it’s HOW I’ve beaten them,’emphasises Lyndon.

‘I’ve a great jab, great boxing ability, I can box forwards or backwards and I’ve reasonable power, especially with the right uppercut. Above all, I’ve exceptionally quick hands for a big man. It’s my speed that takes them out.

‘I’ve already had very competitive spars with the likes of Callum Smith, Jordan Thompson, Mark Heffron, Jack Massey, Josh Buatsi and others on the GB set-up so I know when I acquire the necessary rounds and experience, I’m going to be right up there.’

While Saturday’s foe Adamu has already blown out the candles on his 40thbirthday cake, he’s been halted just once – by WBA Super-Middle boss George Groves – in a 39 fight 17 year career that has included 12 round championship scraps with the likes of Carl Froch and Rocky Fielding.

Entering on a streak of five wins, four by stoppage, it is unlikely that the proud African has come to lie down passively.

‘Adamu has to be viewed as my stiffest test because he’s the first with a winning record. It’s a big step up. I’ll have ‘happy’ nerves, ‘keep me sharp’ nerves!’ concludes Arthur, father to a three year old son.

‘This should help show what I still need to work on. I’m expecting six hard rounds but if I can get him out early, I will.

‘I’m expecting Adamu to be as good as he was in his prime against Groves but, even on that performance, I still know I’ve got more than enough to beat him.

‘I think I’m a great boxer who can knock people out and that’s what fans want to see.’

Tickets for He’s Back are available purchase via the Manchester Arena on www.manchester-arena.com and tel: 0844 847 8000.

Tickets for this unmissable event start from just £40.