The WBO interim Heavyweight World Championship 12 x 3 Minute Rounds
Zhilei Zhang 287.2lbs
Joe Joyce 281.2lbs

The WBC International Super-Lightweight Championship 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Pierce O’Leary 139.3lbs
Kane Gardner 139.6lbs

10 x 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
Anthony Yarde 177.9lbs
Jorge Silva 178lbs

10 x 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Middleweight Contest
Zach Parker 170.9lbs
Khalid Graidia 168lbs

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Heavyweight Contest
Moses Itauma 237.9lbs
Amine Boucetta 296lbs

8 X 3 Minutes Rounds Light-Heavyweight Contest
Ezra Taylor 176lbs
Joel McIntrye 178.2lbs

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Featherweight Contest
Royston Barney-Smith 131.6
Engel Gomez 132lbs

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Cruiserweight Contest
Aloys Jr 203.1lbs
Eric Nazarayan 203.7lbs

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Cruiserweight Contest
Tommy Fletcher 199.2lbs
Alberto Tapia 197.5lbs

6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Welterweight Contest
Sean Noakes 151.7lbs
Lukasz Barabasz 154lbs

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 21, 2023): Former World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-1, 30 KOs) hosted a media workout at Brickhouse Boxing Club ahead of his grand debut in the cruiserweight division against former light heavyweight World Champion Joe “Common Man” Smith Jr. (28-4, 22 KOs) of Long Island, New York on Saturday, October 7. The clash is presented in association with Star Boxing, will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and live around the world on DAZN.

A number of undercard fighters of the Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. event also participated in the workout to promote their upcoming matches. Recently signed to Golden Boy, John “Scrappy” Ramirez (12-0, 8 KOs) will co-headline with a 12-round, WBA Super Flyweight Final Eliminator fight against Panama City, Panama’s Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs). Bektemir “The Bully” Melikuziev (12-1, 9 KOs) of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan, who also proudly represents Indio, will face Upper Marlboro, Maryland’s Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-4-1, 13 KOs). Daniel “Ikaika” Luna (3-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a four-round super lightweight fight against Guadalajara, Mexico’s Erick Benitez (4-5, 1 KO).

Here is what today’s participants had to say:
GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ, FORMER WORLD CHAMPION:
“I am excited for me an my team to return on October 7 in Las Vegas. I am most excited for myself because some of the best shows happen in Vegas.”

“I feel great at cruiserweight, this is typically the weight I’ve walked around my entire life. I feel much stronger in this class and most importantly I feel healthy.”

“Dealing with the Bivol loss was really tough. It hurt my soul and it hurt my ego as a warrior. Now that I have been able to move past it, I want to come back even stronger and I want to win. I want to feel like I can do it.”

“I’ve been watching Joe Smith Jr. for many years now; probably his whole career. He is a great fighter and it’s exciting for me to face him because he is a former world champion, he has faced many former champions and great top opponents.”

JOHN “SCRAPPY” RAMIREZ, SUPER FLYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE CONTENDER:
“This final eliminator is just another fight, something that I have been working for and it has finally came into fruition. It’s all about staying ready so you don’t need to get ready.”

“My path to a world championship is fight to fight, opponent to opponent. Right now, my focus is the man in front of me. He is Panamanian, has tremendous experience, he is hungry, and he is looking for that opportunity to make a statement. So I am not taking him lightly. When the competition is good, I perform better.”

BEKTEMIR “THE BULLY” MELIKUZIEV, SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“I feel good after my great win against Gabriel Rosado. I am excited to finally be back. We’re ready for all the big fights in the division. Gabe was a very principal fight for me. I am now in my hunting mode for the world titles.”

“My team have done their homework on my opponent. It doesn’t matter to me who I fight. I know he is very tall for our weight class, he is very awkward, tough, and always in good fights. I am not looking past my opponent, it’s going to be a very interesting fight.

DANIEL “IKAIKA” LUNA, SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT PROSPECT:
“We had a really quick night last month with my second-round knockout, so I just thought why not? My team and I talked about it, and we felt that I was all ready, in-shape, and prepared to come back this month. We just want to stay busy.”

“We don’t focus on the knockouts, we focus on staying busy. If the knockout comes, it comes. I know my opponent is pretty tough and comes to fight, but so do I.”

#

Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. is a 12-round cruiserweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply for a credential at: https://www.emccredentials.com/10-07-23. Applications are due EOD, October 2, 2023.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.StarBoxing.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoSmith

Ontario, CA (September 21, 2023) Undefeated Top Junior Welterweight Prospect Tito Mercado, (12-0, 11 KOs), of Pomona, CA returns to battle on Saturday, November 11 against Former World Title Challenger Jeremia Nakathila, (23-3-0, 19 KOs) of Windhoek, Namibia in the ten-round main event at the Lumcolor – Phoenix Center in Ontario, CA.

Presented by Fight City Promotions, tickets starting at $75 can be purchased via email at Info@FightCityPromotions.com. The Lumcolor – Phoenix Center is located at 11255 Central Ave., Ontario, CA 91782. Doors will open on the night of the event at 4:00 p.m. PT with the first bell at 6:00 p.m. PT. The event will be broadcast on the Fight City Promotions’ YouTube Channel.

“These are the types of fights I want,” said the 21-year-old promotional free agent Mercado. “Nakathila has fought numerous world class fighters and is the perfect challenge for me.”

“Ontario has become my second home and I love the huge amount of support I get from the fans. I’ve already started training and can’t wait to show that I’m ready right now to face any top 140lb. fighter in the world.”

Mercado is coming off a show-stopping first round knockout of veteran Carlos Manuel Portillo on August 26, 2023. He also holds impressive stoppage victories over former world title challengers Hank Lundy and Jayson Velez.

Nakathila knocked out former world champion Miguel Berchelt in the sixth round on March 22, 2022. He also has engaged in hotly contested battles against current Pound-for-Pound fighter Shakur Stevenson, Zoltan Kovacs and Raymond Muratalla.

Social Media

Instagram: @realtitomercado

Facebook: @tito.mercado

RICHARDSON HITCHINS faces Jose Zepeda over 10 rounds for the WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American titles

“I’ve got to say that I am excited. I want to say ‘Thank you, God’ for this opportunity and thank you to you, Eddie, and Matchroom. Jose Zepeda says that I have never fought at this level. But he is forgetting that I was a kid at 22 years old with only ten professional fights and beating guys like Argenis Mendez, a guy who had already won a world title, and for every fight after that, I told anybody and everybody who they put me in the ring with that isn’t on a World championship level that it is a step down. 

“Jose Zepeda has fought a lot of professional fights but also, he doesn’t have that on his record. Also, he’s fought a lot of guys who don’t have the athleticism or the same skillset than what I bring to the table. They’re all one-dimensional guys. You know, guys like Ivan Baranchyk, who was one of his best wins, but that guy was nothing. He had no fundamental skills at all in the ring. When he gets in the ring with me this Saturday, it doesn’t matter how many fights he’s had or whether he’s been in with Jose Ramirez. 

“There’s a reason why I’m here after 16 fights. I’m a very smart fighter. He’ll figure that out when I open up on him. You will see that on Saturday night. Everything he says when he talks about levels, he’s fought people like Josue Vargas who he talked his way into the fight. I fought my way into this fight, and I have dominated everybody who has been put in front of me. He will be in a tough fight. I’m going to be around here for a long time.

“I can’t say that I’m looking at this as a tough test, but it is a test because Jose Zepeda got here by being a great boxer. But guys like Baranchyk made mistakes against him, so he won. But he can’t do that with me because I don’t make mistakes.”

JOSE ZEPEDA faces Richardson Hitchins over 10 rounds for the WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American titles

“I’m always ready. I want to say thank you to you Eddie Hearn and to everyone at Matchroom. We added a new trainer in Manny Robles, my brother and Stitch. I want to thank all of them because it’s thanks to them that it has been one hell of a training camp. We always come ready. I’ve been there, done that and I’ve come through everything. I’ve had a little bit of bad luck for my challenger fights, but I believe that I’m in my prime. I know I’m 34 years old, but this is where I’m working the hardest at 34 and where I feel that I’m the best. 

“That’s the main reason why I am taking this fight [the prospect of future World title challenges]. But I know in Richardson Hitchins, that he’s a fast fighter and the best prospect out there at 140. I know for a fact that if I beat him, I’m going straight back to the top for a world title shot. So, that’s what I’m looking for and to fight once again for a world title. 

“In the fights I have seen of him, he is a talented fighter and a good prospect – but he hasn’t been at this level yet. That’s why in this fight we are going to see if he can work under pressure. There are levels. Trust me when I fought for a world title for the first time against [Jose Carlos] Ramirez, the first time I got hit to the body I knew that it was a different level. It’s different stuff. So, let’s see what it’s all about and see how he handles things on Saturday night.

CONOR BENN returns the ring against Rodolfo Orozco over ten rounds at Super-Welterweight

“There’s no pressure. I’m just going to go in there and do what I do, do what I love to do and what I was born to do. Saturday night has been a long time coming. I’ve had to jump through so many hurdles and this last year has been the hardest fight of my life. So, what can he do to me? I’m just going to go out there and do what I do. If I see an opening, I will take it. He’s got to know that if I see an opening, I will take it. I say that twice because when I say, I mean it.

“He’s my World title fight. That’s how I treat every fighter. Irrespective of people saying this should be a warm-up or this should be a stepping-stone, I treat every fight like it’s for a world title.

“I’ll be happy to get the rounds in, of course. I know it’s worth its weight in gold. But as I said before, if I see and opening, I will take it. I’m a sharp-shooter, I don’t miss. I’m accurate with my shots. I carry the power; I carry the speed. Whatever he wants to do, I can assure you, there will be a response. I can assure you now, there will be a counter. He best think three steps in advance. 

“There’s a lot of everything that’s going to come out on Saturday night: frustration, aggression, speed, power. It’s all going to come out. There’s no pressure. If anything, I’m just excited. It’s just pure excitement to get in there and do what I know to do. I am born to fight. This is what I do. It’s in my DNA. My DNA is strong, it’s proven. I was put on this planet to fight. On Saturday night he will soon find out because he said he doesn’t know my name – but after Saturday night he will know my name.” 

RODOLFO OROZCO faces Conor Benn over ten rounds at Super-Welterweight

First and foremost, thank you very much to Matchroom. We’ve been waiting for this opportunity to fight here for a long, long time so, of course, we are going to put on a good show on Saturday night.

I’ve been waiting and preparing for a fight like this for a long time. In previous months we’ve been waiting for a big fight like this, and they have fallen through. So, I am completely ready for this fight as I’ve been preparing all the time. We’re coming to win. 

Of course, it’s a huge opportunity for me. I am making my debut in this country, and we are coming to win. 

JESSICA McCASKILL and Sandy Ryan clash in a unification blockbuster at Welterweight

“I’m ready and I am very excited that my team are here. You look at the tale of the tape and you’ve got a 30-year-old coming for an almost 40-year-old – but not yet! You can think about the age and the numbers, or you can think about your camp and what you’ve been working on or, as she mentioned, studying tapes and things like that. But when it all comes down to it, it’s about getting in the ring and what happens when you get inside that ring. 

“I am very excited about this fight. This is a legit, top-notch fight. She fought [Erica] Farias twice. In Farias and some of the people she has fought, I feel like they are the gatekeepers for belts and for certain divisions. That was a legit fight. So, that’s kind of where my mindset is as far as what I am headed to on Saturday night.

“I think it’s very awkward to watch my fights. I don’t have a traditional style or anything. I don’t even watch a lot of my fights. I might watch each fight maybe once or twice to see it from different perspectives but that is it. I just have like root angles and things like that. I don’t know if people maybe they think of my footwork or more punches or to change the pressure or add the pressure. But we work on a bit of everything, so we’ll see what happens on Saturday. 

“Saturday will open more doors for other things. So, it is very important that it is a very clean win – not a split decision or anything like that – it needs to be decisive. Switching weight classes there are a lot of females who there but maybe in a different weight class. But in terms of opportunities and belts, I’m trying to get a couple of sets of all the belts. That’s the kind of things we talk about. But let’s get through Saturday first. That’s the focus.”

SANDY RYAN locks horns with Jessica McCaskill in a five-belt unification battle at 147lbs

“It’s a massive moment for me, making my American debut and I am excited for that. As I’ve said in all my interviews, I respect Jessica as a fighter. The way I’m bringing myself into this fight, both physically and mentally, you’re going to see how much respect I do have for her. But I’m just so confident now that I’m bringing all of these belts home.

“Yes, it has been a fast track for me, and I wouldn’t have changed it. It’s made me who I am right now. I’m professional on the job and I have learned the hard way. This is not the amateur game it’s the pro game and I know that. That’s why I live like a pro now. That’s why I believe that I’m bringing those belts back home because I love boxing and this camp has been great. 

“I’ve covered everything. I know Jess will come in at her best. People have been asking me about what fights of hers have I watched and if I’ve studied her last fight. I’ve not really watched her last fight. She obviously had a bad day, and I can’t go off that. I believe my ability is much better than hers. I’m not taking anything away from her and I believe I’m much better than her and that this is a new era.”

Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (14-0 10 KOs) press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls (22-2 12 KOs). 

Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to headline the Before the Bell action against Mohamed Soumaoro (13-1 6 KOs). Khalil Coe (6-0-1 4 KOs) continues to rise through the ranks at Light-Heavyweight, and ‘Big Steppa’ will be looking for his third KO win of 2023 against Kenmon Evans (10-1-1 3 KOs). Super-Welterweight Jeovanny Estella (12-0 3 KOs) and Super-Flyweight Jasmine Artega (10-0-1 5 KOs) tasting action over eight rounds while Bantamweight Roberto Rivera Gomez (3-0 2 KOs) kicks the whole night off over four rounds, with all three fighters to be matched imminently.

LAS VEGAS, NV (September 21, 2023) – Super bantamweight contender Ra’eese Aleem (20-1, 12 KOs), currently ranked #5 by the World Boxing Organization (WBO), is ready to take on his next challenge. Aleem is setting his sights on a showdown with Ireland’s TJ Doheny (24-4, 18 KOs) in his quest to ascend the WBO rankings. In addition, Aleem is open to fighting anyone rated in the WBO to ten.

Aleem’s recent setback in Australia, where he faced local hero Sam Goodman (15-0, 7 KOs) in a closely contested split decision loss, has only fueled his desire to make a comeback and prove his worth on American soil. The razor-close nature of the fight left no doubt in Aleem’s mind that he belongs among the elite in the super bantamweight division.

“I’ve faced adversity, and I’ve learned from it,” said Ra’eese Aleem. “The loss to Goodman in Australia was a tough pill to swallow, but it’s only made me hungrier. Now, I’m looking forward to challenging TJ Doheny and showing the world what I’m made of. He’s ranked #4 and I’m #5, and if a fight can be made in the USA, then I’m ready to go. I also want to let it be known that I’ll fight anyone in the top ten in the WBO rankings. My goal is to fight here in the USA before the end of the year, or early 2024.”

“Ra’eese is a fighter with incredible heart and talent,” Ra’eese Aleem’s manager, Greg Hannley stated when talking about his fighter’s abilities and aspirations. “We believe that a victory over Doheny, or anyone in the top ten will propel him further up the WBO rankings and put him in a prime position to fight for a world title.”

Top Rank Boxing on ESPN presented by AutoZone: Zhang vs. Joyce will be presented live this Saturday, September 23 at 5:00 p.m. ET/ 2:00 p.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. from OVO Arena Wembley in London, England.

The main event features a heavyweight rematch between Chinese southpaw Zhilei “Big Bang” Zhang and British superstar Joe Joyce.

Zhang (25-1-1, 20 KOs) captured an Olympic silver medal for his home country at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He turned pro in 2014 and compiled a 24-0-1 record before losing a controversial decision to Filip Hrgovic last August. He meets Joyce again just five months after snatching his WBO interim world title. Joyce (15-1, 14 KOs) is a 2016 Olympic silver medalist who turned pro in October 2017 and won the Commonwealth title in his fourth outing. He hopes to exact revenge in his hometown this Saturday.

Calling the action will be Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr. and Bernardo Osuna.?

Digital, On Demand and Exclusive to ESPN+

ESPN.com 

• Out Thursday: Joe Joyce’s Last Chance by Nick Parkinson

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Zhang vs Joyce (All Times ET)

About ESPN

LONDON (Sept. 21, 2023) –Top Rank on ESPN+ returns to London this Saturday with a special two-fight broadcast from OVO Arena Wembley.

In the main event, Chinese contender Zhilei Zhang defends his WBO interim heavyweight title in a highly anticipated rematch against British knockout artist Joe Joyce.

The co-feature will see former two-time world title challenger Anthony Yarde taking on Portugal’s Jorge Silva in a 10-rounder.

Promoted by Queensberry, Zhang-Joyce II and Yarde-Silva  will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ beginning at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT.

Zhang (25-1-1, 20 KOs) captured an Olympic silver medal for his home country at the 2008 Beijing Olympics before turning pro in 2014. He compiled a 24-0-1 record before losing a controversial decision to Filip Hrgovic last August. Less than eight months later, he faced Joyce for the first time, peppering the Brit with lefts until the ringside physician stopped the fight in round six due to the swelling engulfing Joyce’s right eye. Joyce (15-1, 14 KOs), a 2016 Olympic silver medalist, hopes to exact revenge in his hometown. Before the first Zhang fight, “The Juggernaut” stopped top contenders Carlos Takam, Daniel Dubois, and Joseph Parker during a five-fight knockout streak.

Yarde (23-3, 22 KOs) is a London native who debuted as a pro in May 2015. He went 18-0 before almost knocking out Sergey Kovalev for the WBO title in August 2019. He bounced back with two TKO wins before suffering a split decision defeat to Lyndon Arthur in December 2020. Yarde then notched three more wins, including a fourth-round knockout over Arthur in their December 2021 rematch. Yarde is coming off a valiant but unsuccessful effort against light heavyweight king Artur Beterbiev in January. Silva (22-8, 12 KOs) is a 19-year pro coming off a decision win over Jack Jones in June.

Richardson Hitchins says he’s too good to feel pressure in headlining for the first time in his career on Saturday night – and will put on a dazzling performance against Jose Zepeda to prove it, as they clash at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is bearing down on the champions at 140lbs, and victory over former World title challenger Zepeda (37-3 28 KOs) would see the Brooklyn ace knocking on the door for a crack at the belts.

The 25 year old joined promoter Eddie Hearn in visiting the School of Hard Knocks gym in Orlando to impart their wisdom on aspiring young fighters, and seeing the work done in the community by the gym reminded Hitchins of how far he’s come from humble beginnings to the edge of glory.

“I don’t really feel the pressure of headlining,” said Hitchins. “I was born to do this; I’m made for it. I think that there’s always been pressure for me for day one, but I handle it because I am confident in my ability and in who I am. I am a special fighter; at the end of the day, it’s boxing and I truly believe I’m one of the best out there.”

“Every opportunity is important, so I am looking at this fight like I have all my previous fights, it’s must-win. If you can master boxing and you can conquer the world, and that’s what I am in the sport for, to be at the very top.

“From starting out to headlining on Saturday it’s been a crazy journey. I think back to being a kid that walked into a boxing gym after seeing Marcus Browne in the 2012 Olympics, I was probably 14, and following that was my first short-term goal to go to the Olympics. 

“From there, to signing with Mayweather Promotions, fighting on Showtime, beating a former World Champion in Argenis Mendis, and now headlining my first show; it’s just destiny when you look at it.

“When you are chasing a dream and you are on that journey, it’s easy for people to doubt you or think you aren’t that guy. There are always things on the outside that you may have to overcome, but when you have my focus, your eyes set on that goal, all you must do is focus on that because the storm always ends, and you will get to the sunshine.

“My family was homeless, I have come from a tough beginning, but I always knew boxing would be a way out. I am making sure that me and my family never have to go back to days that I couldn’t help. Period. I think I have a gift and I am using that to make like better for them. I’m able to help and the more I master my craft, I will use it to achieve more and more inside and outside the ring.”

Hitchins’ clash with Zepeda is part of a stacked card in Orlando, with co-main action in the form of the return of British star Conor Benn (21-0, 14 KOs) who faces Mexican Super-Welterweight Rodolfo ‘Sinaloita’ Orozco (32-3-3, 24 KOs)

Jessica McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) and Sandy Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) clashing in a unification battle for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine Welterweight titles and Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (14-0 10 KOs) press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls (22-2 12 KOs). 

Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to headline the Before the Bell action against Mohamed Soumaoro (13-1 6 KOs). Khalil Coe (6-0-1 4 KOs) continues to rise through the ranks at Light-Heavyweight, and ‘Big Steppa’ will be looking for his third KO win of 2023 against Kenmon Evans (10-1-1 3 KOs). Super-Welterweight Jeovanny Estella (12-0 3 KOs) and Super-Flyweight Jasmine Artega (10-0-1 5 KOs) tasting action over eight rounds while Bantamweight Roberto Rivera Gomez (3-0 2 KOs) kicks the whole night off over four rounds, with all three fighters to be matched imminently.

LONDON, ENGLAND – (September 21st, 2023) – A serious threat awaits Callum Simpson in London next weekend as dangerous Mexican Jose De Jesus Macias steps in to replace an injured Germaine Brown on the BOXXER: Breakthrough card at London’s York Hall on Saturday, September 30th, live and exclusive on Sky Sports. 

In June this year, Macias faced Erik Bazinyan – ranked #3 in the world at super-middleweight by the WBC and #2 by the WBA – and gave him a scare, nearly spoiling Bazinyan’s undefeated record and the big-money Canelo Alvarez showdown that Bazinyan has been linked with. 

Macias (28-12, 14 KO’s) has made a career of derailing contenders and spoiling the night for home fighters – such as his jaw-breaking 2021 TKO of recent WBO world title challenger Steve Butler in Canada – and he’s aiming to do the same to Simpson (12-0, 9 KO’s) next Saturday during his first-ever visit to the UK. 

For Barnsley man Simpson – considered one of the best under-the-radar talents in the UK by boxing insiders before he signed with BOXXER earlier this year – it’s a chance to test his mettle against a fighter who has faced some of the division’s toughest talents and score a win which will put his name on the international radar.

“Callum Simpson already had a tough opponent for September 30th and now he has an even tougher one. Jose de Jesus Macias is an excellent boxer who has caused a string of upsets over the years and gave the world-ranked #3 super-middleweight Erik Bazinyan all sorts of problems in June,” said Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO.

“This is a serious test for Simpson. There aren’t many fighters who would step up to this level of opposition so early in their careers, especially on short notice, and I think he deserves a lot of credit for accepting this fight with Macias.”

BOXXER presents Simpson vs Macias in association with bet365 as the event’s bet365 Wildcard contest. 

BOXXER: Breakthrough at York Hall, London takes place Saturday, September 30 and airs live and exclusively in the UK and Ireland on Sky Sports.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Village Hotels and Fastline Steel Services.

LAS VEGAS – September 19, 2023 – Former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios showed off their skills and previewed their upcoming showdown for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title during a media workout in Las Vegas Tuesday before they meet on the Canelo vs. Charlo SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions pay-per-view.

Ugas and Barrios will look to reclaim championship gold in a matchup that will see the former WBA Welterweight Champion Ugas square off against the former 140-pound titlist Barrios. Each fighter is led to the ring by a renowned trainer as Ugas is guided by longtime top trainer Ismael Salas, while Barrios trains under 2022 Ring Magazine Trainer of the Year Bob Santos.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Canelo Promotions and TGB Promotions, are available through AXS.com. 

Here is what Ugas and Barrios had to say Tuesday from DLX Boxing in Las Vegas:

YORDENIS UGAS

“In the end, it’s about taking each round as seriously as the previous round. I don’t take anything for granted. The goal is to have each and every round go the direction I want it to go.

“I’m not in the prediction business, but what I do is fight elite fighters, give my best every round and let the chips fall where they may.

“I’m used to these big fight atmospheres, but it is very exciting to be on the card with a star as big as Canelo. It’s a great source of pride and I plan to bring my best for all the fans watching.

“It’s beautiful to be fighting here in Las Vegas again. I’m 5-0 in Las Vegas and this is my third time fighting at T-Mobile Arena. I feel at home and absolutely love fighting here in Las Vegas.

“It was both physically and emotionally tough after the Errol Spence Jr. fight. Emotionally I had to carry that loss with me. Now I can redeem myself and put it all in the past. I always knew that I would come back after the fight. My eye got stronger after the surgery and now I feel ready.

“I was so happy to be able to be back in the gym and do what I’ve wanted to do my entire life. I was back in training in December and started sparring again a couple months after that.

“I’m just focused on my fight. I have no clue what Crawford may do with the WBC belt. I’m doing my thing and that’s what I plan to keep doing.”

MARIO BARRIOS

“I’m gonna bring the same intensity that I bring in every fight. I feel a lot more comfortable and settled in at the weight now.

“I’m preparing myself to the best of my ability. We have a very good game plan that we’re getting ready for Ugas. It’s a really hard fight, but those are the type of fights that I like to take. I want to continue to test myself and my ability and my skill in the ring.

“Everything has been really good. I’ve been here in Las Vegas for a few months staying ready. My mind and body are both looking on point right now. It’s exciting.

“I think the move out here to Las Vegas was necessary. I feel sharper than ever and more focused. I get tremendous workouts here. It’s been very beneficial.

“A win in this fight means everything for me and my career right now. It puts me at the top of the division with the best welterweights out there and gets me closer to the bigger world title fights.

“I’m very happy to be here in Las Vegas with Bob Santos. Me and Bob have always had a great relationship and having him as the head coach again is great. We’re gonna be able to accomplish a lot in the next few years.”

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ABOUT CANELO VS. CHARLO

Canelo vs. Charlo will see pound-for-pound great Canelo Álvarez defend his undisputed super middleweight world titles in a blockbuster showdown against hard-hitting undisputed junior middleweight world champion Jermell Charlo headlining a SHOWTIME PPV (8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT) Saturday, September 30 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Canelo Promotions will present the Premier Boxing Champions Pay-Per-View. 

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see undefeated sensation Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. take on hard-hitting top contender Erickson “Hammer” Lubin in the 12-round super welterweight co-main event. The pay-per-view also includes former world champions Yordenis Ugas and Mario “El Azteca” Barrios going toe-to-toe for the Interim WBC Welterweight Title. Opening up the action are rising middleweights Elijah Garcia and Armando Reséndiz squaring off in a 10-round attraction.

For more information visit sho.com/ppv and www.PremierBoxingChampions.com, follow #CaneloCharlo, follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotions, on Instagram @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing and @TGBPromotionss or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing and www.Facebook.com/premierboxingchampions/.

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 19, 2023): NABO Welterweight Titleholder Alexis “Lex” Rocha (23-1, 15 KOs) of Santa Ana and San Diego’s undefeated Giovani “Gallo de Oro” Santillan (31-0, 16 KOs) hosted a kickoff press conference today at Golden Boy HQ. The two world title contenders discussed their upcoming 12-round clash that is presented in association with Top Rank and exclusively broadcast on DAZN. Scheduled for Saturday, October 21, the welterweight warriors will add their names to the exclusive list of legendary boxers who have fought at the Kia Forum ranging from Muhammad Ali to Golden Boy’s Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya.

This is what today’s participants had to say:

ALEXIS ROCHA, NABO WELTERWEIGHT TITLEHOLDER:

“Well, first off I just want to thank God, without him none of this was possible. Also want to thank Golden Boy Promotions, my team, my head coach Hector Lopez, Abraham Perez, and TKO boxing.”

“It takes a team, a dedicated team, to get where I’m at today. I feel that I’ve grown so much over time and now’s my moment, and I want to keep just banging on the door for a world title. I know that Giovani is gonna be a good opponent. I’m not thinking about Crawford, for me this is a world title shot, this is a world title fight.”

GIOVANI SANTILLAN, WELTERWEIGHT WORLD TITLE CONTENDER:

“This is going to be an exciting fight, we’re both Mexican fighters. You know, we have that Mexican blood inside of us, you know, and we’re gonna come with that fire for sure.”

“This isn’t the first time that I go into enemy territory. You know, the last time I did that I fought this guy, Sammy, and I went all the way to Tampa Bay for that fight. As I’m walking into the ring, I hear all his fans cheering for him and talking a lot of trash about me. But afterwards, his fans became my fans, and I believe that I can do that for this fight. I think that I will gain the LA fan base after this fight.”

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

“As Golden Boy, we know our position, we know exactly what we have to do in order to position that fighter to get them to that world title. Alexis Rocha is knocking on the door. Giovani has an amazing opportunity. So this is what boxing is all about.”

“My pro debut was at the Kia Forum. The Forum is a very special arena. It’s built like a bowl, so every seat is a great seat. But most importantly, the fans appreciate a great fight. Obviously, this is no exception.”

“I think that Alexis Rocha has proven that he belongs in this spot, that he has what it takes to become a world champion. Just to give you a little history about what’s going on with Crawford and the WBO, there’s a WBO convention coming up where Crawford will be making his decision whether he’s going up to 154 or he’s staying at 147. So therefore, it will dictate what next move we will be making for Rocha. But first thing is first, he has a very difficult tough opponent in front of him. I strongly feel that Giovani with his undefeated record is coming with everything, guns blazing!”

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Rocha vs. Santillan is a 12-round welterweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Top Rank. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Tickets for Rocha vs. Santillan are priced at $150, $100, $75, $50 and $30 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply for a credential at https://www.emccredentials.com/rocha_santillan. Applications are due EOD, October 13, 2023.

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

About the Kia Forum

The Kia Forum, located in Inglewood, California, is the only arena-sized venue in the country dedicated to music and entertainment, delivering a superior experience for artists and fans alike. The iconic venue attracts a wide variety of premier events including the biggest names in music and entertainment, award shows, combat sports and more. Fans at the Kia Forum enjoy approximately 8,000 square feet of event level hospitality offerings, including merchandise and food and beverage options. A tinted glass wall separates this concession area from the arena, ensuring fans do not miss a moment of the show. A 40,000-square-foot outdoor terrace wraps around the perimeter of the building and offers comfortable furnishings and food and beverage options from some of SoCal’s most celebrated brands. Designed with entertainers and performers in mind, Kia Forum Backstage includes star-caliber dressing rooms that provide unparalleled comfort. The Kia Forum was honored at the 2022 Pollstar Awards as recipient of the Arena of the Decade award. For more information, please visit thekiaforum.com. Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

NEW YORK (September 19, 2023) – Three Split-T Management fighters got big victories over the weekend.

In Corpus Christi, Texas, Tiger Johnson remained undefeated with a eight-round majority decision over Ricardo Quiroz in a junior welterweight fight.

Johnson, 141,7 lbs of Cleveland won by scores of 79-73 twice and 76076 and is now 10-0. Quiroz, 141.6 lbs of Oxnard, CA is 13-3.

In Mexico, 2023 National Golden Glove champion in junior lightweight Tyshawn Denson was impressive in winning a four-round unanimous decision over Jesus Gutierrez.

Densom scored a knockdown in round two and won by scores of 40-35 on all cards.

Denson of Akron, Ohio took home the 132-pound title this past May in Chester, Pennsylvania.

The 19-year-old began boxing at the age of four as he followed his great grandfather (amateur), father (professional) and older brother (amateur) into the sport. He then racked up an impressive mark of 143-12. In addition to winning the National Golden Gloves, Denson also was a 2019 Junior Olympic Qualifier, and 2016 Junior Olympic champion.

Tyshawn Denson Knockdown
In the same card, super flyweight Trinidad Vargas of Grand Prairie, Texas went to 4-0 with a four-round unanimous decision over Angel Morales.

Scores were 40-36 on all cards.

Las Vegas – UFC^® continues its run of shows at UFC APEX with an exciting featherweight clash, as No. 11 ranked contender Sodiq Yusuff collides with No. 13 Edson Barboza. Also on the card, No. 13 ranked bantamweight contender Jonathan Martinez faces off with fellow standout No. 14 Adrian Yanez.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: YUSUFF vs. BARBOZA will take place Saturday, October 14 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire card will stream exclusively on ESPN+ in English and Spanish with the prelims beginning at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT followed by the main card at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

Yusuff (13-2, fighting out of Bladensburg, Md.) intends to deliver his best performance yet in his first UFC main event. A signee from season two of Dana White’s Contender Series, Yusuff has proven himself as one of the toughest outs in the stacked featherweight division with wins over Alex Caceres, Andre Fili and Gabriel Benitez. He now looks to secure the biggest victory of his career by taking out Barboza in his first Octagon appearance of 2023.

Barboza (23-11, fighting out of Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) returns to action planning to show that he can still compete with the best in the division. Owner of some of the greatest highlights in UFC history, he cemented himself as a devastating finisher in victories over Terry Etim, Beneil Dariush and Dan Hooker. Barboza now seeks to remain undefeated for the year and set himself up for a Top 10 bout in 2024.

Martinez (18-4, fighting out of Plainview, Texas) looks to defend his spot in the rankings and begin his run towards the bantamweight title. A rangy striker, he has quietly built an impressive five-fight win streak that includes victories over with Cub Swanson, Said Nurmagomedov and Vince Morales. Martinez now aims to extend his streak to six in his second UFC co-main event.

Always entertaining Yanez (16-4, fighting out of Houston, Texas) plans to make a statement with another signature KO. A top prospect since being signed from Dana White’s Contender Series in 2020, Yanez has secured a post-fight bonus in all five of his UFC wins, including those over Tony Kelly, Davey Grant and Randy Costa. He now has his sights set on snapping the win streak of Martinez in emphatic fashion.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 9 ranked flyweight contender Jennifer Maia (21-9-1, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil) looks to secure the longest win streak of her UFC career against No. 10 Viviane Araujo (11-5, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil)
• Featherweight veteran Darren Elkins (27-11, fighting out of Portage, Ind.) takes on TJ Brown (17-10, fighting out of Little Rock, Ark.) in an all-action contest
• Entertaining middleweights collide as Marc-Andre Barriault (16-6 1NC, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla. by way of Gatineau, Quebec, Canada) faces Michel Pereira (28-11, fighting out of Tucuma, Para, Brazil)
• Bantamweight prospects Christian Rodriguez (9-1, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) and Cameron Saaiman (9-0, fighting out of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa) intend to make a statement in an early Fight of the Night contender
• Irina Alekseeva (5-1, fighting out of Chelyabinsk, Russia) aims to spoil the UFC debut of undefeated Melissa Dixon (5-0, fighting out of Coventry, England) in a bantamweight bout
• Terrance McKinney (14-6, fighting out of Spokane, Wash.) and Chris Duncan (11-1, fighting out of Alloa, Scotland, United Kingdom) lock horns in a battle of lightweight finishers
• Ashley Yoder (8-8, fighting out of Temecula, Calif.) and Emily Ducote (12-8, fighting out of Oklahoma City, Okla.) meet in a strawweight tilt

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for media credentials to the event.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 233 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s active fighter roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global sports and entertainment company Endeavor and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+

About ESPN

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

Richardson Hitchins is planning to dominate Jose Zepeda and send a message to the big guns at 140lbs that he’s coming for them when they clash on Saturday night at Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN.

TICKETS FOR ORLANDO ARE ON SALE NOW AT TICKETMASTER.COM

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is sitting pretty at #5 in the WBO and #7 in the IBF, and victory on Saturday night would see him rise to the cusp of World title fights, with the WBC Silver, WBO NABO and IBF North American Super-Lightweight titles on the line.

The Brooklyn ace shone in his last outing, flooring New Jersey’s John Bauza en-route to a shut out over ten at Madison Square Garden. The 25 year old knows continuing to win is vital to landing the World title shot he craves, but not content with that, Hitchins believes that his rivals will stand up when he delivers dominant displays, and that starts with the biggest test of his career in former World title challenger Zepeda (37-3 28 KOs).

“Winning is number one of course, but to get the big fights I have to win and dominate,” said Hitchins.

“I’m ready for the champions because when you look at the guys Prograis or Haney fight, those are guys that I am a nightmare for any of them. I have size, reach, superb defense – I can damn near feel when a guy is about to punch. So, when you have a guy like that against a guy that doesn’t know how to defend themselves, it kind of makes it tricky for them, because I’ve been in there with guys that just stand in front of you and don’t have the ability. You get in front of a guy like Shakur Stevenson, that turns boxing into a math problem, it’s different and that’s what you face with me. I can bring that puzzle that people can’t solve, it’s algebra in the ring. 

“Every fight at 140lbs is a good fight, this is a great fight. Jose is confident, he’s put people to sleep, out, first round KOs, had the fight of the year in 2020 with Baranchyk. And then there’s people now saying, ‘OK let’s see how Richardson handles Zepeda’. Then you have Teofimo, he says he’s from Brooklyn – I know he ain’t, but I am. He beat the man at 140 and I feel I’m the uncrowned king at 140 and that would be a great fight. 

“Jose is supposed to say he wants to fight me. He’s 34 years old, he’s been campaigning for a long time, he has confidence, he was power, and he’s got the tools to make it a nightmare for me, so he should be taking an opportunity like this, why would he say no?

“It’s just my job to show him that I am on a different level to him. He’s going to try to use his experience to try land his power, pressure me. Boxing is a sport where you must be smart, he’s a tough fighter but he’s not a durable one because he’s been down numerous times and I feel the mistake that they cannot make its me is overlooking my power, I’m a very sharp powerful fighter. My record may not show it, but if you pay attention, it shows I am punching. 

“I’m a way smarter boxer than Jose, he’s one-dimensional and I just feel I’ll show levels. I must be smart and show him, yeah, this kid knows what he is on. I think when I am in there, he will see that. Boxing is all about timing, everything I do is about doing it at the right time. 

“There’s a lot of things that can happen next. I want to fight again in 2023, I think that could be a guy that’s going to bring the best out of me, just like Zepeda will, and then we should be ready for the World champions, Devin, Regis and Teofimo. If I win this, I’ll climb the rankings again in the WBO, so I’ll be knocking at the door for Teo.”

Htichins’ clash with Zepeda is part of a stacked card in Orlando, with Jessica McCaskill (12-3 5 KOs) and Sandy Ryan (6-1 2 KOs) clashing in a unification battle for the WBA, WBC, WBO, IBO and Ring Magazine Welterweight titles.

Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams (14-0 10 KOs) press his claims for World title action at Middleweight as he tackles Steve Rolls (22-2 12 KOs) and will Orestes Velazquez (7-0 6 KOs) will defend his WBA International Super-Lightweight title to kick off the main card against Mohamed Soumaoro (13-1 6 KOs).

Khalil Coe (6-0-1 4 KOs) continues to rise through the ranks at Light-Heavyweight, and ‘Big Steppa’ headlines the Before The Bell action and will be looking for his third KO win of 2023 against Kenmon Evans (10-1-1 3 KOs). Super-Welterweight Jeovanny Estella (12-0 3 KOs) and Super-Flyweight Jasmine Artega (10-0-1 5 KOs) tasting action over eight rounds while Bantamweight Roberto Rivera Gomez (3-0 2 KOs) kicks the whole night off over four rounds, with all three fighters to be matched imminently.

LOS ANGELES (SEPTEMBER 19, 2023)–Wise Owl Boxing Management has signed former world title challenger Brandon Adams.

Adams of Los Angeles has a record of 23-3 with 15 knockouts. The 34-year-old Adams is a distinguished fighter in the junior middleweight and middleweight divisions.

“I’m very excited about the opportunity to manage Brandon. Brandon is an elite fighter at the pinnacle of his career and his time is now. He’s hungry and motivated and has a new team behind him to push him to the next level. He’s proven himself as a force to be reckoned with and has shared the ring with some of the very best fighters in the world. He showed that he is willing to fight anybody as he jumped in there with Charlo at middleweight on four week’s notice. His charismatic personality shines inside and outside of the ring. I can’t wait to see him in action where he can showcase his skills and show the world who he is,” said Mark Habibi of Wise Owl Management

“”I am super excited to be working with Mark and Wise Owl Boxing. This is an opportunity to start fresh and get straight to work. I am looking forward to seeing what is out there for me,” said Adams.

Adams began boxing at the age of 18 and had a very brief amateur career that saw him go 4-2.

Adams won his first 12 bouts before entering the Boxcino Tournament. Adams defeated distinguished fighters Daniel Edouard (23-4-2) and Raymond Gatica (14-2) before losing to Willie Monroe Jr. in the final.

The very next year, Adams dropped down to junior middleweight and made it to the finals of that tournament with wins over Alex Perez (18-1) and Vito Gasparyan (15-3-5).

The third time was the charm as Adams then starred on The Contender series as he was crowned champion as he defeated Tyrone Brunson (26-6-2), Ievgen Khytrov (17-1), Eric Walker (17-1) and 10-round beatdown of Shane Mosley Jr. (13-2) in the final.

That win parlayed Adams to a shot at WBC Middleweight champion Jermall Charlo.

After his spirited effort against Charlo on June 29, 2019, Adams came back with two impressive wins as he stopped Sanny Duversonne (11-2-2) in two rounds, and then on March 4, 2021, Adams stopped undefeated knockout artist Serhii Bohachuk in Puerto Rico.

Philadelphia (September 19, 2023) –For the second time in four months, Joey Dawejko won a unanimous decision over Colby Madison in a heavyweight bout a Live! Casino & Hotel Philadelphia.

The eight-round win garnered Dawejko the WBC U.S. Heavyweight title and headlined an eight-bout card that was promoted by King’s Promotions.

Dawejko dominated the action by landing quick power shots that kept Madison at bay. Dawejko’s shots had Madison thinking twice about trying to attack. in round eight, Dawejko scored two knockdowns to sew up the victory.

Dawejko of Philadelphia won by scores of 80-70, 79-71 and 78-72 and is now 26-10-4. Madison of Baltimore is 11-6-2.

The fight was a rematch of a May 2nd fight for which Dawejko also won a unanimous decision at the same venue.

Quadir Albright dropped Demarcus Layton twice en-route to an 82 second stoppage in a six-round welterweight bout.

Albright of Philadelphia is 9-1 with nine knockouts. Layton of Little Rock, Arkansas is 9-6-1.

Dewayne Williams scored a mild upset as he stopped Brendan O’Callaghan in round two of their six-round middleweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 42 seconds for Williams of Philadelphia, who is now 4-7-1 with four knockouts. O’Callaghan of Philadelphia is 5-3-1.

Jackie McTamney made a successful pro debut with a fourth and final round stoppage over Brittany Dukes in a featherweight bout.

The time of the stoppage was 59 seconds of the final frame for the Philadelphia native McTamney who is 1-0 with one knockout. Dukes of Kansas City is 0-5-1.

Tevon Watson dropped Tyler Zwicharowski three times, and that was the difference in their four-round middleweight bout.

Watson of Fort Worth, Texas took the unanimous decision by scores of 38-35 on all cards to go to 1-0. Zwicharowski of Philadelphia is 1-2.

Najeem Johns won a six-round unanimous decision over Muhammad Robinson in a battle of undefeated super lightweights.

Johns of Philadelphia won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 5-0. Robinson of Baltimore is 6-1.

Canar Morrison won a four-round unanimous decision over Vincent Floyd in a middleweight bout.

Morrison of Harrisburg, PA won by scores of 40-36 twice and 40-35 and is now 5-1. Floyd of Philadelphia is 5-16-1.

Ibrahim Robinson took a six-round unanimous decision over Elizer Olmeda in a welterweight fight.

Robinson of Baltimore won by tallies of 60-53 twice and 59-54 and is 6-0-1. Olmeda of Gloucester, NJ is 3-4.

Orange County, CA; On July 20, 2000, Erin Toughill made her pro boxing debut on a Roy Englebrecht Promotions Battle in The Ballroom show at the Irvine Marriott. Today 23 years later, Roy Englebrecht, CEO of Englebrecht Promotions & Events announced that he has hired Erin Toughill to be the new Vice President of Fighter Relations and Matchmaking for his Southern California based company.

Erin will take over for Englebrecht’s boxing matchmaker Chuck Bosecker who is taking some time off, and current Englebrecht Promotions & Event MMA matchmaker Mel Valenzuela who will continue his matchmaking work for BYB Bare Knuckle and A1 Combat.

“Talk about coming full circle,” said Englebrecht. “Erin has been a friend since she debuted for me and she has attended many of our Fight Club OC shows over the years. What makes this hiring unique is that Erin will be the only boxing and MMA matchmaker that was a pro fighter herself and will be able to speak to fighters on their level. She will bring a skill level to her position that most matchmakers do not have in dealing with fighters and understanding them. I couldn’t be happier for her. This hiring is historic as Erin will be the first matchmaker in combative sports history that was both a pro boxer and pro MMA fighter.”

Toughill has been involved in combat sports for nearly 30 years, having competed in three disciplines: boxing, mixed martial arts, and bareknuckle boxing. She is the first and only woman to be ranked in the Top Five in both MMA and boxing simultaneously. She fought Laila Ali on national television for the first ever women’s WBC Super Middleweight belt in 2005. She was the #1 ranked MMA fighter at 155 pounds and was signed by Strikeforce in 2008 but did not compete for the San Jose company because of an injury. Erin knocked out future Bellator champion Marloes Coenon in a war in Japan in 2004. For the last 20 years Toughill has trained both male and female fighters in all combat sports and for the past four years has been mentoring under Hall of Fame boxing coach Buddy McGirt.

“I am honored that Roy Englebrecht has asked me to join his company as Vice President of Fighter Relations & Matchmaking,” said Toughill. “As a former fighter, I am extremely passionate about boxing and MMA as well as the welfare of the combatants. Female athletes have made huge advancements in combat sports over the last decade, and I am thrilled to be given the opportunity where I can continue to provide value to the sport in a different capacity. My goal is to cultivate strong relationships between myself and the fighters and to assist in their growth and visibility.”

“Without a doubt my son Drew and I have been blessed to have had Chuck and Mel handle our matchmaking over the past 10+ years and we have witnessed some of the best fights to date. They are one of the reasons Fight Club OC is considered the premier club fight promotion in the country and ‘the most fun you can have on a Thursday night in Orange County’ and I know with a doubt Erin will continue on with this tradition… Fights Guaranteed,” continued Englebrecht.

William Zepeda stopped former world title challlenger Mercito Gesta in round six of their 12-round lightweight bout at The Commerce Casino in Commerce, California.

Zepeda began his relentless offensive assault in round two and in round three began to swell the eyes of Gesta. In round five, Zepeda viciously battered Gesta all over the ring. Zepeda landed a staggering 217 power punches through five rounds. In round six, Zepeda beat up Gesta on the ropes as he landed about 20 unanswered shots and the fight was stopped at 1:31.

Zepeda, 134.3 lbs of San Mateo Attenco, MEX is 29-0 with 25 knockouts. Gesta, 134.2 lbs of Mandaue City PHI is 34-4-3.

“I am ready for the big fights out there – whether it be Devin Haney or even a Shakur Stevenson. Those are the guys who have the belts and that’s what I want next,” said William Zepeda. “There are incredible fights for me in my division, and I trust that Golden Boy will do what they can to get me to become a World Champion. I am ready to go home, rest and recover peacefully at home.”

Victor Morales remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Edwin Palomares in a featherweight fight.

In round 10, Morales was cut over his right eye.

Morales landed 162 of 434 punches. Palomares was 136 of 564.

Morales, 126 lbs of Vancouver, WA won by scores of 100-90, 99-91 and 96-94 and is now 19-0-1. Palomares, 125.4 lbs of Mexico City is 18-5-2.

“I hoped I showed Oscar and the team tonight that I am a warrior in the ring, and I can push through anything,” said Victor Morales Jr. “I am happy we get to take our belt back home with us.”

Yokasta Valle defended the IBF/WBO Minimumweight titles with a 10-round unanimous decision over Maria Santizo.

Valle landed 98 of 292 punches. Santizo was 79 of 435.

Valle, 105 lbs of Matahalpa, NIC won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 twice and is now 29-2. Santizo, 104.2 lbs of Gutamala City, GUA is 11-4.

“I knew she was going to bring everything,” said Yokasta Valle. “She was training in Los Angeles to get incredible sparring and I knew she was well prepared for our fight. I am going to take a week off and enjoy the Costa Rican beaches and get back to training so I can be ready to fight on November 4 no matter who the opponent is.”

Darius Fulgham remained perfect with a second round stoppage over Ricardo Luna in a scheduled eight-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Luna was cut on his forehead. In round two, Fukgham landed a left hook to the side of the head that put Luna on a knee. Luna got to his feet, but the fight was a waved off at 1:30.

Fulgham, 170.8 lbs of El Paso, TX is 7-0 with seven knockouts. Luna, 170.8 lbs of Mexico City is 25-11-2.

Eric Priest remained undefeated with an eight-round majority decision over Simon Madsen in a middleweight bout.

Priest landed 121 of 284 punches. Madsen landed 104 of 360.

Preiest, 158.8 lbs of Wichita Falls, TX won by scores of 80-72, 79-73 and 76-76 and is now 11-0. Madsen, 158.6 lbs of Cancun, MEX is 13-2.

Daniel Garcia won a six-round unanimous decision over Erick Benitez in a lightweight fight.

Garcia, 132 lbs of Denver, CO is 7-0. Benitez, 131.6 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 4-5.

Alejandro Reyes won a six-round majority decision over Roberto Gomez in a super lightweight bout.

In round five, Reyes was bleeding over the left eye.

Reyes, 139.6 lbs of Mexicali, MEX won by scores of 59-55, 58-56 and 57-57 and is now 11-0. Gomez, 140 lbs of Mexico City is 5-2.

Gael Cabrera won a six-round super lightweight bout over Juan Centeno in a super featherweight bout.

In round three, Centeno was cut on the lip. In the same round, Cabrera was cut on the right eyebrow.

Cabrera, 126.2 lbs of Sonora, MEX won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 2-0. Centeno, 127.6 lbs of Managua, NIC is 8-9-4.

Jordan Cervantes won a four-round unanimous decision over Giovanny Meza in a super lightweight bout.

Cervantes, 136.4 lbs of East LA, CA won by scores of 40-36 on cards and is now 1-0. Meza, 137.2 lbs of El Paso, TX is 0-5.

Fall River, MA (September 16, 2023)

Despite being a amateur boxing hotbed, Fall River, Massachusetts has not seen a professional bout in over 30 years. That all changes tonight when Boston Boxing Promotions presents “Fall River Brawl” at the legendary Fall River PAL, a venue which has seen the likes of legends such as Marvelous Marvin Hagler compete in its intimate setting.

In the main event, two Fall River natives will go head to head for local bragging rights and civic pride when Kyle Cusick takes on Johnny Kim just blocks away from where Lizzie Borden and her infamous axe put Fall River on the map.

For Cusick, who is trained by local boxing folk hero, Libby Medeiros and trains upstairs at the PAL, a throwback gym whose walls are covered in yellowed posters that showcase the town and the venue’s long boxing history, it’s a dream come true.

“Boxing has such a rich history in Fall River, from being home to the Southern New England Golden Gloves to multiple gyms and professional fighters currently in the city, it’s almost unreal that it has been 33 years since there has been a professional fight card here. To be the main event in my hometown, in the same building as my gym and to have my longtime trainer Libby Medeiros, who cornered Ray Oliveria in the last main event here, in my corner, it’s literally a dream come true.”, explains Cusick.

Boston Boxing Promotions President, Peter Czymbor agrees with Cusick.

“We always have fighters and fans from Fall River who appear on and attend our events in Northern Massachusetts and New Hampshire that have asked for us to head south and do an event here.The time has finally come and the excitement the city has already shown for the event has proven it’s long overdue. Kyle is one of our favorite fighters and people so it’s fitting he gets to be the main event.”

Along with Cusick vs. Kim, the night will also feature Fall River fighters, Stephen Langlais in his farewell fight and heavyweight, Chris Aiello in his professional debut as well the professional debut of Cuban transplant Raidel Rodriguez against 40 fight veteran Brandon Blue.

Handling the night’s PPV commentating duties will be Boston Boxing Promotions’ always lively team of BoxRec’s Grey Johnson and musician/fighter, Chris Jay as well as Fall River trainer Aaron Bernardo along with special guests.

Full Line Up

Kyle Cusick vs. Johnny Kim

(Fall River, MA)  (Fall River, MA)

4 Rounds – Middleweights

Stephen Langlais vs. Russ Kimber

(Fall River, MA)    (Peabody, MA)

6 Rounds – Cruiserweights

Raidel Rodriguez  vs. Brandon Baue

(Seekonk, MA) (St. Louis, MO)

4 Rounds – Welterweights

Chris Aiello vs. Aquilla Prote

(Fall River, MA)      (Boston, MA)

4 Rounds – Heavyweights

Mario “Christoper” Ramirez vs. Michael Taylor

(Simi Valley, CA)      (Cortland, NY)

4 Rounds – Junior Middleweights

Cusick vs. Kim takes place tonight Saturday, September 16 at The PAL in Fall River, Massachusetts. Limited tickets will be available at the door and fans can watch at www.CombatSportsNow.com

ABOUT BOSTON BOXING PROMOTIONS

Boston Boxing Promotions was founded in 2013 and is dedicated to the resurgence of professional boxing at the regional level, particularly in the New England area. Since that time, it has presented professional boxing events in places like Boston, Cape Cod, New Bedford and New Hampshire. In 2020, Boston Boxing Promotions was the first independent boxing promoter on the east coast to hold an event during the pandemic. The event led to a popular series of empty venue shows broadcast live and for free on YouTube watched by tens of thousands of fans around the world. Boston Boxing Promotions returned to live audiences with The Great American Boxing Bash in the summer of 2021 which featured 3 consecutive sold out weekends at the The Castleton

?in Windham, New Hampshire. Their annual Thanksgiving Eve Boxing Spectacular has become a tradition for hardcore boxing fans with 5 consecutive sellouts including the 2022 edition which received extensive news coverage on television and in print. 2023 marks Boston Boxing Promotions’ 10th Anniversary and the company, run by Peter Czymbor and Nick DiSalvo has become one of the most popular and well respected club boxing promoters in the country.

MIAMI, FL (September 15, 2023)—The World’s Greatest Promoter, Don King, just celebrated his 92^nd birthday, and while he’s been partying non-stop, he’s been working non-stop to put together another boxing card that is a night that fans will remember.  That birthday celebration will continue in his next non-stop promotion in his “Only in America 92 Celebration” as he has put together a boxing extravaganza like no other set for Saturday, Nov. 4 at Casino Miami Jai Alai.

“We are bringing the public a boxing card, where all the fights will be co-feature events,” said King.

“One great fight after another.  It will be an action-packed night to remember and we have more to come.”

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

The clash of two titans will take place in the  WBC Cruiserweight Championship 12-round bout featuring the top two ranked fighters as the top ranked  and mandatory Silver Champion Noel Mikaelian (26-2, 11 KOs) from Miami via Armenia will get his toughest test as he takes on former champion Ilunga Makabu (29-3, 25 KOs) of Johannesburg, South Africa via the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  Makabu, who lost his title to Badou Jack as he was stopped in the 12^th round, is hoping to regain his belt after Badou Jack relinquished the title.

On top of those two blockbusters will be two heavyweight attractions.

The  WBA NABA Gold Heavyweight Champion, Jonathan Guidry (19-1-2, 11 KOs) from Dulac, LA will defend his title against the WBC FECARBOX Heavyweight champion, Jesus Escalera (18-0, 18 KOs) from Riverview, FL via Puerto Rico.

The other heavyweight attraction will feature former WBA Heavyweight Champion Trevor Bryan (22-1, 15 KOs) returning to the ring after losing his title to face Cassius Chaney (22-1, 15 KOs) from New London, CT.

The super sensation fan favorite and WBA Continental America’s middleweight champion, Ian Green (17-2, 11 KOs) from Haledon, NJ will also be featured on this spectacular night of boxing as he defends his title against Mark “The Bazooka”  DeLuca (30-4, 18 KOs) of Quincy, MA.

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

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA (September 15, 2023) – The always entertaining John “Scrappy” Ramirez (12-0, 8 KOs) will co-headline the Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. card with a 10-round, WBA Super Flyweight Final Eliminator fight against Panama City, Panama’s Ronal Batista (15-3, 9 KOs). The winner of the scrap will move on to fight for a world title. The highly anticipated fight night is presented in collaboration with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing, will take place live from The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and live around the world on DAZN beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. are priced at $200, $150, $100 and $50 plus applicable fees. A limited amount of Golden Boy VIP Experience tickets will also be available for purchase with exclusive merchandise and fight night upgrades included. Standard and VIP tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or GoldenBoyPromotions.com. 

Bektemir “The Bully” Melikuziev (12-1, 9 KOs) of Shoimbek, Uzbekistan, who also proudly represents Indio, California, will face Upper Marlboro, Maryland’s Alantez “SlyAza” Fox (28-4-1, 13 KOs). “The Bully” is returning after a successful rematch against boxing veteran Gabriel Rosado in April 2023 that saw him become the WBA Intercontinental Super Middleweight Titleholder which he will defend on October 7. Opening the DAZN broadcast, Tristan “Sweet T” Kalkreuth (11-1, 8 KOs) of Carolton, Texas will face a soon-to-be-announced opponent in a six-round cruiserweight fight. Kalkreuth’s last fight in July left fan’s jaws on the floor after a vicious knockout and a backflip to celebrate. 

On the preliminary undercard Golden Boy’s favorites are scheduled to return against soon-to-be announced opponents. Fort Lauderdale’s Eric Tudor (9-0, 6 KOs) will participate in an eight-round super welterweight fight. After an explosive, second round knockout on September 7, recently signed Daniel “Ikaika” Luna (3-0, 3 KOs) will hope to repeat history with a four-round super lightweight fight.

Also part of the preliminaries, in an eight-round junior middleweight fight is Star Boxing’s Jahyae “Golden Child” Brown (13-1 9KO’s), who will face off against Youngstown, Ohio’s Victor Toney (7-2-1 6KO’s). Also on the undercard is Star Boxing’s undefeated, New Jersey prospect, Rajon “Picasso” Chance (8-0-1 6KO’s), who will measure up in an eight-round featherweight fight against Orlando Perez Zapata (13-0 9KO’s) of Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.

###

Zurdo vs. Smith Jr. is a 12-round cruiserweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

Media interested in covering the fight can apply for a credential at: https://www.emccredentials.com/10-07-23. Applications are due EOD, October 2, 2023.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.StarBoxing.com and DAZN.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoy, www.facebook.com/StarBoxing and https://www.facebook.com/DAZN. Follow on Instagram @GoldenBoy, @StarBoxing and @DAZNBoxing. Follow the conversation using #ZurdoSmith

NEW YORK (September 15, 2023) – TONIGHT, two Split-T Management fighters will be in action in North America.

In Corpus Christi, Texas, undefeated junior welterweight Delante Johnson takes on Roberto Quiroz in an eight-round bout.

Johnson of Cleveland, Ohio is 9-0 with five knockouts. The 25-year-old has wins over Xavier Madrid (3-0), Esteban Garcia (15-1), Mike Ohan Jr, (16-1) and his last bout when Johnson took an eight-round unanimous decision over Jonthan Montrel (15-1) on July 1st in Toledo, Ohio.

Quiroz of Oxnard, California is 13-2 with seven knockouts. The 26-year-old has defeated Jose Antonio Marino (5-1), Martin Leon Morales (15-1), and is coming off a first-round stoppage over Gabriel Smith on April 21st in Santa Ynez, California.

Johnson, who is promoted by Top Rank, weighed in at 141.7 lbs. Quiroz was 141.6.

The bout can be seen live on ESPN+ at 6:30 ET..

Photo by Ed Mulholland / Matchroom

In Tijuana, Mexico, Melissa Odessa Parker takes on former world champion Erika Cruz Hernandez in a 10-round bout for the WBA Continental Americas Super Bantamweight title.

Parker of Spring, Texas is 6-1 with two knockouts. The 36-year-old has wins over three undefeated fighters in Kathryn Julia Paprocki, Brittany Sims and Mikenna Tansley.

Hernandez is 15-2 with three knockouts. The 33-year-old native of Mexico City has wins over Aida Rodriguez (5-0-2), Vissia Trovato (12-1) and Jocalyn Morales Torres (5-1-2).

On April 22, 2021, Hernandez won the WBA Featherweight title with a technical decision over Jelena Mrdjanovich. Hernandez made two defenses as he defeated Mrdjanovich in the rematch and defeated Melissa Esquivek (12-1).

Hernandez had a very spirited effort in losing a unanimous decision to Amanda Serrano for the undisputed title on February 4th in New York.

The bout can be seen live on DAZN at 8 PM ET

New York, NY (September 15, 2023) – DiBella Entertainment has joined Holden Productions in signing a co-promotional agreement with heavyweight McKenzie Morrison, son of legendary heavyweight Tommy Morrison.

The 33-year-old Morrison (20-1-2, 18 KOs) is best known to boxing fans for his fifth-round stoppage of Hasim Rahman Jr. in April 2022 at the Virgin Hotel in Las Vegas. The fight, billed as “Sons of Legends,” saw Morrison win the WBC USA heavyweight championship.

Morrison began training when he was 19 years old, foregoing college basketball scholarships that he’d earned as a standout in high school. He made his professional debut in October 2014, scoring a first-round knockout over Marvin Babe, despite never having stepped into the ring as an amateur. He would go on to remain unbeaten until his last fight in October 2022, when he lost on points to Robert Sims. 

Family legacy is important to Morrison. He trained with his father before the elder Morrison’s death in 2013. His father’s lessons stuck with him, including a mantra that Tommy would drill into his son: “Speed generates power.”

His father’s death devastated him. “I still had a goal,” said Morrison. “I just lost the one person that was guiding me.”

Said Morrison of his signing, “I have spent these past few days with my family and in prayer. God has led me to a career-altering decision that I am beyond excited to announce. My father, Tommy Morrison, had a lot of good people in his circle, but one of the most pivotal being Tony Holden. Another man I have looked up to during my career is Lou DiBella, one of the most influential promoters in boxing. DiBella and Holden made a decision to partner together to co-promote me in my career. Deciding to sign with Lou DiBella and Tony Holden as co-promoters has been one of the most important moments in my career thus far. I am beyond blessed, and excited to continue my adventure with these two amazing men in my corner.”

Morrison went on to say that he’d known Holden since childhood, and he was pleased that their relationship had come full circle.

“I’m pleased to be working with Kenzie Morrison and I’m confident that I can help him get the opportunities he’s working so hard for,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “I knew his dad well; he was an unforgettable heavyweight fighter with a huge heart. It’s my pleasure to help Kenzie chase his dreams and honor his father.”

“Kenzie is very athletic and gifted. I’m excited to see where he goes in the near future,” said Tony Holden, President of Holden Productions. “I promoted his father, Tommy Morrison, and he was a dear friend of mine, so it’s always special to work with Kenzie. I’m happy to join forces with my good friend Lou DiBella.”

For the past several years, Morrison, who lives in Fayetteville, AR, with his partner, Kristen, and their son, Sebastian, has trained with Kevin Lightburn at Straight Right Boxing & Fitness in nearby Springdale, AR. Look for him in the ring under the DiBella Entertainment banner in the coming months. 

In a battle of undefeated heavyweights, Federico Pacheco Jr. stopped Carlos Cardenas in round three in a scheduled four-round bout.

In round three, Pacheco dropped Cardenas with a left to the body. Seconds later, Pacheco landed two more body shots that put Cardenas down again and the fight was stopped at

Pacheco, 262 lbs of Los Angeles is 5-0 with four knockouts. Cardenas, 224 lbs of Guadalajara, MEX is 4-1.

4 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest 
 
Federico Pacheco Jr. (262lbs)        vs.     Carlos Cardenas (224lbs)
(Los Angeles, California)                          Guadalajara, Mexico             
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins Interim WBC World Featherweight title
 
Sabrina Maribel Perez (125.7lbs)  vs.     Skye Nicolson (125.7lbs)
(Buenos Aires, Argentina)                        (Queensland, Australia)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins Featherweight contest
 
Kevin Barron Crespo (125.7lbs)     vs.     Christian Olivi Barreda (125.7lbs)
(Tijuana, Mexico)                                     (Hermosillo, Mexico)   
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBA Continental Americas Super-Bantamweight title
 
Erika Cruz (122lbs)       vs.     Melissa Oddessa Parker (122lbs)
(Mexico City, Mexico)  (Spring, Texas)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins WBO NABO Lightweight title 
 
Angel Fierro (134.5lbs)         vs.     Brayan Zamarripa (134.5lbs)
(Tijuana, Mexico)                            (Baja California, Mexico)