LOUISVILLE, KY (March 29, 2018) Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing in association with the World Boxing Council and Louisville’s Top Knotch has announced a stellar undercard for the ‘Jose Sulaiman World Invitational Tournament’ set for Friday, April 27, 2018 at the KFC YUM! Center.

Tickets starting at $35 are now on sale and be purchased through the KFC Yum! Center box office, Ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. The KFC Yum! Center is located at 1 Arena Plaza, Louisville, KY 40202. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:00 p.m. with the first bell at 7:00 p.m.

“The international and local interest in Louisville for the tournament has been outstanding and we’re very excited to add these tremendous undercard bouts to our four first round matchups,” said Holyfield. “All six of these undercard fights will enhance the evening and make this a truly memorable experience for fight fans.”

Headlining the undercard will be the highly anticipated return of Louisville, KY based, undefeated phenom Carlos Dixon, (2-0-0, 1 KO’s) fighting in a four-round junior lightweight battle against an opponent to be announced. The 21-year-old Dixon returns to action following a decision victory on October 19, 2017 over Archie Weah in Atlanta, GA. On June 24, 2017, impressed the Louisville fight fans with a stunning first round knockout in his professional debut against DeAngelo Huggins.

Boxing since he was the age of 14 guided by his father James Dixon, Carlos was an outstanding amateur.

Winning the 2012 Silver Gloves, Dixon continued his path winning Kentucky Silver Gloves three times in addition to the Junior Open Golden Gloves and was a three-time Golden Gloves Regional Champion.

Dixon’s illustrious amateur career culminated with him being ranked #7 in the nation in 2017 prior to turning professional.

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Making his professional debut and also fighting out of Louisville, KY is former amateur standout Trevis Burgos. The 20-year-old will make his professional debut in a four-round welterweight bout against an opponent to be announced.

2018’s Ring Magazine Women’s Prospect of the Year, Alycia Baumgardner, (5-0-0, 4 KO’s), of Fremont, OH will clash with battle-tested Kirstie Simmons, (8-3-0, 2 KO’s), of Aurora, CO in a scheduled six round junior lightweight bout.

Starting her professional career with four first round knockouts in 2017, Baumgardner is returning to battle following the biggest win of her professional career, an eight round unanimous decision over Nydia Feliciano on February 10, 2018 in Philadelphia, PA. The victory earned Baumgardner the WBC International Women’s Junior Lightweight Title.

The southpaw Simmons has faced top competition in her five years as a professional including fights with Heather Hardy and Kaliesha West.

Just 19-years-old, Detroit’s Janelson Bocachica has quickly moved to the top of the sports’ prospect lists, quickly compiling a record of 9-0-0 with six knockouts. On April 27, Bocachica will face the toughest test as a pro; a scheduled six round junior middleweight bout against veteran Pablo Sanchez, (10-2-0, 5 KO’s), of Greenwood, IN.

In Bocachica’s last action, he knocked out Victor Gaytan in the fifth round in Philadelphia, PA. Sanchez will be looking to add to his two-fight winning streak, having scored a six-round decision victory over Robelle Rogers on March 24, 2018.

Heavy-handed and undefeated cruiserweight Joshua Temple, (5-0-0, 4 KO’s), of St. Louis MO, faces off against an opponent to be announced in a scheduled six round bout.

Standing 6’4”, the 25-year-old Temple has quickly impressed boxing fans with his skills and power since turning professional in July of 2016. In his last action, Temple won a hard-fought unanimous decision over Bryan Daniels on October 19, 2017 in Atlanta, GA.

Heavyweights will see action in a scheduled six round bout as undefeated prospect Marcus Carter, (5-0-0, 5 KO’s), of Detroit, MI seeks to extend his knockout streak against veteran Antwaun Taylor, (4-6-0, 1 KO) of Cincinnati, OH.

The 20-year-old Carter is best known in the legendary fight town of Detroit for his show-stopping knockouts, most recently stopping Eric Cason in the second round on March 26, 2017.

Below are the previously announced 10-round welterweight matchups for the ‘Jose Sulaiman World Invitational Tournament.’

#1 ranked FELIX DIAZ, (19-2-0, 9 KO’s) of Santa Domingo, D.R. will clash with #8 ranked DERRIECK CUEVAS, (16-0-1, 13 KO’s) of Catano, Puerto Rico.

#2 ranked CHRIS VAN HEERDEN, (25-2-1, 12 KO’s) of Johannesburg, South Africa, faces #7 ranked TIMO SCHWARZKOPF, (18-1-0, 10 KO’s) of Stuttgart, Germany.

#3 ranked FREDRICK LAWSON, (26-1-0, 21 KO’s) battles #6 ranked BAISHANBO NASIYWULA, (13-1-1, 6 KO’s), of Urumqi, China.

#4 ranked RADZHAB BUTAEV, (8-0-0, 6 KO’s) of Russia faces #5 ranked BRAD SOLOMON, (27-1-0, 9 KO’s), of Douglasville, Georgia.

The two alternates chosen by the fan voting include FRANCISCO SANTANA, (26-6-1, 12 KO’s), of Santa Barbara, CA and PADDY GALLAGHER, (13-3-0, 8 KO’s) of Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Included among the unique judging aspects set forth for the tournament;

–Development and implementation of a standardized scoring process that clearly defines how the judges should score each bout.

–Additional judges to minimize margin of error. A fourth judge will be placed at ringside and a fifth judge will be placed in front of a TV monitor with no audio commentary. All five judges’ scorecards will be used if the fight goes the distance.

–Employment of an Open Scoring concept to allow fighters the knowledge if they are winning or losing a fight.

–Assignment of Neutral and Experienced Judges throughout the tournament.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions, @WBCBoxing @KFCYumCenter

Twitter: @TheRealDealBox, @Holyfield, @WBCBoxing, @KFC_YumCenter

Instagram: @TheRealDealBoxing, @WBCBoxing, @KFCYumCenter, EvanderRDHolyfield

Websites: www.TheRealDealBoxing.com, www.WBCBoxing.com, www.KFCYumCenter.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (March 29th, 2018) — The launch of a new division in the media capital of the world has put the region’s No. 1 combat sports promotion on the precipice of dominance in 2018.

CES MMA launches its New York division on Friday, May 4th, 2018with “CES MMA NY,” a star-studded event at the iconic The Space at Westbury Theater, featuring the region’s best up-and-coming fighters, including UFC and Bellator veteran and submission specialist Matthew Secor (9-5) of Glens Falls and the long-awaited New York debut of Oyster Bay welterweight John Gotti III (1-0).

“With the incredible amount of pro talent located in the New York region, opening a division there is a logical step in our east-coast expansion,” CES MMA vice president Jimmy Burchfield Jr. said. “John Gotti III made his pro debut in Rhode Island back in October. Now it’s time for him to go to work at home.”

Tickets for “CES MMA NY” are priced at $100.00, $115.00, $175.00 and $200.00 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesmma.com or by phone at 401-724-2253/2254. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

After debuting with a submission win over Johnny Adams at “CES MMA 46” in Rhode Island, Gotti III returns against fellow New Yorker Eddie Haws (0-1) of Schenectady in one of four confirmed bouts on the “CES MMA NY” card.

The main event features an all-New York showdown between Secor, who has secured eight of his nine victories by submission and Brazilian Renee Forte (8-4, 2 KOs) of Long Island. Secor and Forte have combined for six UFC appearances with Forte facing Francisco Trevino at UFC 171 in Dallas. Secor competed on Season 16 of The Ultimate Fighter reality series before a four-fight stint with Bellator sandwiched around three appearances with the World Series of Fighting (WSOF).

In the co-main event, longtime Bellator vet Kenny Foster (12-12, 1 KO) of Corona makes his third appearance with CES MMA in a featherweight showdown against Jacob Bohn (5-5) of Le Roy, who returns to CES MMA following his debut with the promotion in May of 2017. Foster recently scored an upset win over fan-favorite Joe Pingtore at “CES MMA 42.”

Unbeaten flyweight Josh Ricci (4-0), who has played spoiler twice against hometown fighters for CES MMA, gets the chance to fight in his backyard for just the second time as the Whitesville native battles two-time CES MMA vet Miguel Restrepo (4-4-1), now fighting out of Brooklyn. Ricci defeated Remo Cardarelli and David Baxter with CES MMA before winning his Bellator debut at Bellator 182 in August.

Stay tuned for more fight announcements by visiting www.cesmma.com, www.twitter.com/cesmma or www.facebook.com/cesmma, or following CES MMA on Instagram at @CESMMA.

Ricky ‘The Hitman’ Hatton is convinced heavyweight hero Anthony Joshua will write another chapter in British boxing’s golden era in Cardiff on Saturday night.

Joshua looks to add Joseph Parker’s WBO belt to his IBF and WBA Super titles at the Principality Stadium and Hatton said: “I can’t see anything other than a Joshua win.

“Parker has quick hands for a heavyweight and he could give Joshua problems for a few rounds.

“But can he do it for 12 rounds is the question.

“I don’t think he can.

“I can see Joshua getting to him in the middle rounds and stopping him in the second half of the fight.”

Joshua is British boxing’s biggest star since Hatton was in his pomp around a decade ago.

Hatton now has a stable of fighters – including unbeaten heavyweight Nathan Gorman – and is also an ambassador for ‘Ultimate Boxxer,’ an exciting new single elimination tournament that premiers on Friday 27th April at the Manchester Arena with eight unbeaten welterweights going toe-to-toe.

“This is going to be the start of something that could be very, very exciting.” Said Hatton.

“Sky Sports and BT Sport are both doing a great job for boxing, but ‘Ultimate Boxxer’ is being shown on the internet and you can be seen by so many people on the internet these days.

“‘Ultimate Boxxer’ is a great opportunity for young fighters who might not get a chance on Sky Sports or BT Sport. There’s every chance ‘Ultimate Boxxer’ will uncover a star – or maybe two.”

‘Ultimate Boxxer’ is being held at the venue where Hatton dethroned pound-for-pound fighter Kostya Tszyu in 2006 and became a legend.

Hatton was a huge fans’ favourite, thousands followed him to the States for fights with Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao, but he said: “This is the most successful time for British boxing I can remember.

“We’ve got good fighters coming through, lots of champions and the heavyweight champion of the world.

“The heavyweight scene in Britain is exciting. We could see Dillian Whyte face Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury is coming back to win his titles back.”

ULTIMATE BOXXER I will take place at the Manchester Arena on April 28. Tickets are available from www.ultimateboxxer.com

For latest news and exclusive content on ULTIMATE BOXXER I go to www.ultimateboxxer.com; you can follow us on all social media @ultimateboxxer and join in the conversation with #ultimateboxxer

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The Middleweight showdown between Daniel Jacobs and Maciej Sulecki at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York on April 28, live on HBO, has been approved as a final eliminator for the WBA World Middleweight title.

Jacobs and Sulecki will battle it out to become mandatory challenger for the May 5 clash between Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez and Jacobs’ old foe ‘GGG’ Gennady Golovkin – raising the stakes for Jacobs’ return to his Brooklyn home.

‘The Miracle Man’ is back at Barclays for the first time since stopping Sergio Mora in September 2016, the fourth defence of the WBA title he won in there in August 2014 – and with today’s news is now in touching distance of challenging to reclaim it.

April 28 is Jacobs’ second fight with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing USA after outclassing Luis Arias in November at NYCB Live, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, and both Jacobs and Hearn are thrilled that the 31 year old will can be in touching distance of his ultimate goal – facing a fellow elite 160-pounder to become World ruler again.

“I’m grateful for the WBA for this opportunity and it gives me even more motivation going into April 28,” said Jacobs. “I feel that I beat GGG in the first fight and everyone knows my plan has always been to fight the winner of the rematch – now is there is no hiding place”

“This is great news for Jacobs and Sulecki and it’s such a huge opportunity,” said Hearn. “When we signed Danny, the aim was always to fight the winner of Canelo v GGG but sometimes in boxing, politics will work against you.

“Sometimes you have to take destiny in your own hands and now we know that victory on April 28 will lead us to the promised land. Danny Jacobs is the best Middleweight in the world and now he can go and prove it.”

Jacobs’ clash with Sulecki is part of a huge night of action in New York where fellow Brooklyn star Jarrell Miller meets Johann Duhaupas in a WBA World Heavyweight title eliminator clash and WBA World Lightweight ruler Katie Taylor aims to unify against IBF champion Victoria Bustos.

Kazakhstan’s 2016 Olympic Gold medallist Daniyar Yeleussinov makes his pro debut on the bill, unbeaten knockout artist Shohjahon Ergashev, a native of Uzbekistan, now fighting out of Brooklyn, NY will face China’s Zhimin Wang, undefeated lightweight prospect Dimash Niyazov will be making his Barclays Center debut in a six-round bout.

Exciting welterweight prospect Julian Sosa, originally from Mexico, now fighting out of Brooklyn, NY, will fight for the fifth time at Barclays Center and native of the boxing rich Clones, Ireland, Larry Fryers, is coming off an outstanding 2017 campaign which saw him post five big wins from California to New York.

Tickets to the event start at $42 and are on sale NOW. To purchase tickets, visit Ticketmaster.com, BarclaysCenter.com, or call 800-745-3000. Tickets for the event can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center beginning Saturday, February 24 at noon. For information on group sales, call 844.255.9647.

New York, NY (March 29, 2018) DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT’s acclaimed BROADWAY BOXING series will return to the Fox Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, on Saturday, May 5. Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Tickets for the event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment, priced at $125, $75 and $45, go on sale tomorrow and can be purchased online at Foxwoods.com, Ticketmaster.com, by calling 800-200-2882, or visiting the Foxwoods box office. Foxwoods Resort Casino is located at 350 Trolley Line Boulevard, Mashantucket, Connecticut 06338. Doors will open to the Fox Theater at 5:30 pm with the first bell at 6:00 pm.

“I am happy to again bring Broadway Boxing back to our home away from home at Foxwoods Resort Casino,” said LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment. “The stacked card will include Shelly Vincent, a great ambassador for women’s boxing from Rhode Island, facing another former world title challenger in Edina Kiss, in what promises to be an entertaining battle, as well as a can’t-miss welterweight brawl between Massachusetts prospects Khiry Todd and Adrian Sosa. Foxwoods staple Mykquan Williams, from East Hartford, will also compete for his first title belt.”

Making her ninth appearance at Foxwoods Resort Casino, the popular SHELLY “SHELITO’S WAY” VINCENT (21-1, 1 KO), of Providence, Rhode Island, will square off against Budapest, Hungary’s EDINA KISS (14-6, 8 KOs), in a 10-round junior lightweight bout. Vincent has won three straight since her only defeat in August 2016 via majority decision to Heather Hardy in what The Ring Magazine hailed as the “Female Fight of the Year.” She was honored by the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame as their “Fighter of the Year” in 2016, becoming the first female recipient of the award. Managed by Mike Criscio and trained by Peter Manfredo Sr., Vincent last fought on October 28, defeating former world title challenger Calixta Silgado by unanimous decision. The battle-tested Kiss has also fought Hardy as well as both Amanda and Cindy Serrano.

KHIRY “TNT” TODD (7-0, 5 KOs), of Lynn, MA, will take on ADRIAN “TONKA” SOSA (6-0, 5 KOs), of Lawrence, MA, in a battle of unbeaten local welterweight heavy hitters, scheduled for six rounds. It is a testament to their self confidence that both Todd and Sosa are willing to risk their perfect records against one another at this early stage of their careers. Only one will return to Massachusetts with the momentum to move forward, while the other will have to rebound from their first defeat. The 26-year-old Todd had 40 amateur bouts and won the New England Golden Gloves tournament in 2016 before turning pro that December. The 22-year-old Sosa was a 2014 New England Golden Gloves champion and turned pro in July 2016 following an 18-2 amateur career.

Just 19 years old, fast rising East Hartford prospect “MARVELOUS” MYKQUAN WILLIAMS will compete for the WBC USNBC Silver super lightweight title in a bout scheduled for eight rounds. Promoted by DiBella Entertainment and managed by Jackie Kallen, Williams made his New York debut in his last bout on February 7, needing less than one round to knock out Preston Wilson. Williams is trained out of Manchester Ring of Champions Society boxing gym by local legend and community leader Paul Cichon, whom he’s known since he was a child and looks upon as a surrogate father. Williams was a decorated amateur with a 45-13 record, highlighted by three gold-medal performances at the Ringside World Championships, in addition to winning the PAL Tournament and Silver Gloves Championships.

The undercard will also consist of Brooklyn prospects, junior middleweight HURSHIDBEK NORMATOV (5-0, 2 KOs) and junior featherweight KHALID TWAITI (2-0, 1 KO), along with touted New Englander, featherweight IRVIN GONZALEZ JR. (8-0, 7 KOs), from Worcester, MA.

Additional information on the undercard will be announced shortly.

If the middleweight championship rematch between Gennady “GGG” Golovkin and Saul “Canelo” Alvarez takes place, the live fights at Foxwoods will be accompanied by a closed circuit viewing of the pay-per-view telecast, held in the Grand Pequot Ballroom. Fans who buy tickets to Broadway Boxing will be able to present their ticket stubs at the Grand Pequot Ballroom to receive a discounted price of five dollars to watch the Golovkin-Canelo broadcast.

Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Brooklyn, NY (March 29, 2018) Undefeated Brooklyn based heavyweight contender JARRELL ‘Big Baby’ MILLER will watch closely this Saturday night, March 31, 2018, as WBA/IBF Heavyweight World Champion ANTHONY JOSHUA faces undefeated WBO Heavyweight World Title Holder JOSEPH PARKER in front of an expected crowd of over 80,000 boxing fans at Principality Stadium in Cardiff, England.

Said the 29-year-old Miller, “The excitement continues in the heavyweight division as Anthony Joshua steps back in the ring on Saturday against Joseph Parker and no one is more excited than me.”

“A victory by Joshua will put me one step closer to joining him in the ring and will give me the chance that I’ve been working all my life to get and NO ONE deserves this more! I’m the wildcard that’s going to shake this division up and give the fans what they want to see.”

“I’m here to stay and I will get the respect I deserve. I will not be denied. My focus right now is to add another win on April 28th with a knockout victory over Johann Duhaupas and then ‘Big Baby’ Miller is coming for my heavyweight crown and my respect. The world will know my name!”

On Saturday, April 28, 2018, Miller, (20-0-1, 18 KO’s) will face former world title challenger, JOHANN “The Reptile” DUHAUPAS, (37-4-0, 24 KO’s), of Abbeville, France, over 12-rounds in a WBA World Heavyweight Title Eliminator. The bout will serve as the co-feature to Matchroom Boxing USA’s sensational boxing card, ‘Straight Outta Brooklyn’ emanating from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY and televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Miller is currently world ranked #3 by the WBO, WBA and IBF.

The heavy-handed Jarrell Miller scored two dominant stoppages in 2017. Fighting for the first time at Barclays Center on July 29, 2017, Miller stopped former world title challenger Gerald Washington at the end of eight rounds.

Following that up most recently, Miller stopped former world title challenger Mariusz Wach in the ninth round on November 11, 2017 in his first appearance at NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Headlining ‘Straight Outta Brooklyn’ on the HBO telecast, former Middleweight World Champion and BROOKLYN BOXING Ambassador DANIEL JACOBS, (33-2-0, 29 KO’s), returns for a 12-round middleweight showdown against undefeated, world ranked Polish contender MACIEJ SULECKI, (26-0-0, 10 KO’s).

Advance tickets for ‘Straight Outta Brooklyn’ starting at $42 may be purchased by visiting Ticketmaster.com, BarclaysCenter.com, or calling 800-745-3000. Tickets for the event can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. For information on group sales, call 844.255.9647.

Previously announced in an outstanding women’s world title unification bout, WBA Lightweight World Champion KATIE TAYLOR, (8-0-0, 4 KO’s) of Bray, Ireland returns to Barclays Center battling over 10-rounds against IBF Lightweight Women’s Champion VICTORIA ‘La Leona’ BUSTOS, (18-4-0), of Rosario, Argentina.

From the boxing rich country of Kazakhstan, the sport’s next big star, 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist, welterweight DANIYAR YELEUSSINOV will compete in a six-round bout in his can’t miss pro debut.

Additionally, fighting in a scheduled 10-rounder on the undercard, fast-rising unbeaten knockout artist SHOHJAHON ERGASHEV, (11-0-0, 11 KO’s), a native of Uzbekistan, now fighting out of Brooklyn, NY will face China’s ZHIMIN WANG, (10-2-0, 3 KO’s).

Brooklyn police officer and undefeated lightweight prospect DIMASH ‘Lightning’ NIYAZOV, (13-0-0, 6 KO’s), will be making his Barclays Center debut in a six-round bout.

Fighting in a six-round bout on the undercard, exciting welterweight prospect JULIAN SOSA, (11-0-1, 4 KO’s), originally from Mexico, now fighting out of Brooklyn, NY, will battle for the fifth time at Barclays Center.

Also seeing action from boxing rich Clones, Ireland, ‘Lethel’ Larry Fryers, (6-0-0, 2 KO’s), will fight in a six-round welterweight bout.

Further details on these bouts will be announced shortly.

Atlantic City, New Jersey (March 29, 2018)–Mis Downing Promotions will officially kick off the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame 2nd Annual Induction Weekend Friday, June 1st, with a great night of professional boxing at The Claridge: A Radisson Hotel.

The fight card on Friday June 1st in the Celebrity Theater at the Claridge Hotel will precede a great show that will take place the next evening Saturday June 2nd at Historic Boardwalk Hall {Adrian Phillips Theater} where Mis Downing Promotions will be working in associating with 4-Time Heavyweight Champ Evander “Real Deal” Holyfield and his new promotion company Real Deal Sports & Entertainment.

“I am ecstatic to be able to promote a great card on Friday June 1st. We wish to set the tone for the Hall of Fame weekend with a great show at The Claridge, and then again the next night with Evander Holyfield,” Said Mis Downing, CEO of Mis Downing Promotions.

Full details on the card and ticket information will be announced shortly.

Mis Downing Promotions would like to thank their sponsors which includes The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame, The Claridge Hotel, Fantasea Resorts, AEI Insurance, Urgent Response, HairX, Buy Smart Motors & New Vision Property Management.

Philadelphia, PA (March 29, 2018) – TOMORROW NIGHT!!! at The Fillmore in Philadelphia, Hard Hitting Promotions will present an outstanding 10 bout card that has a can’t miss main event, and will feature some of the most talented fighters in the country.

In the aforementioned featured attraction, Raymond Serrano of Philadelphia will battle undefeated Malik Hawkins of Baltimore, MD in a ten-round battle for the NABA-USA Welterweight Championship.

Serrano, 28 years-old has a record of 24-4 with 10 knockouts. The former amateur standout is riding a three-fight winning streak. The 11 year veteran, who is managed by Mark Cipparone has wins over Ashantie Henrickson (1-0), Jay Krupp (12-1), Ronnie Warrior Jr. (13-2-1), Ayi Bruce (15-2-1), Jerome Rodriguez (6-1-3), Zack Ramsey (8-1), and his last bout when he won via 8th round disqualification over previously undefeated Enver Halili (10-0) on November 18th in Atlantic City.

Hawkins, 22 years-old, has record of 12-0 with nine knockouts. The four-year professional exploded onto the scene with a 2nd round destruction over previously undefeated Carlos Soto (13-0-2) on April 14, 2017 in Oxon Hill, Maryland in a bout that was nationally televised on ShoBox: The New Generation. Hawkins is coming off a 7th round stoppage over Juan Jesus Rivera on November 4th.

One of the most talent laden undercards in recent memory has been put together.

In six-round bouts:

Darmani Rock (10-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Ronny Hale (4-11, 4 KOs) of Austin, Texas in a heavyweight bout.

Hard Hitting Promotions elite-prospect Branden Pizarro (8-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia battles 32 fight veteran Pablo Cupul of San Diego in a lightweight bout.

Hard Hitting Promotions Samuel Teah (12-2-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Orlando Rizo (19-12, 11 KOs) of Managua, NIC in a lightweight bout.

Hard Hitting Promotions rising prospect Jeremy Cuevas (7-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia battles Efrain Cruz (4-4-1, 1 KO) of Vieques, Puerto Rico in a lightweight bout.

Undefeated super middleweight Ronald Ellis (14-0-2, 10 KOs) of Lynn, Massachusetts battles Taneal Goyco (9-10-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia.

Hard Hitting Promotions fighter, Gadwin Rosa (5-0, 4 KOs) of Ocala, FL battles an opponent to be named in a super featherweight bout.

Tramaine Williams (14-0, 5 KOs) of New Haven, CT battles Antonio Rodriguez (12-20-1, 5 KOs) of Durango, MX in a featherweight bout.

In four-round bouts:

Romuel Cruz (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a bantamweight bout.

Joey Alday, Jr. (6-0, 6 KOs) of Odessa, TX takes on Mike Crain (1-1) of Smyrna, DE in a junior middleweight bout.

VIP Tickets are sold out; General Seated are sold out

There’s only some Ringside and Second-floor standing available.

The Fillmore is located at 29 E. Allen Street, Philadelphia, PA. 19123

CARDIFF, WALES (March 28, 2018) – Undefeated Heavyweight World Champions Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker made their first appearance in Cardiff on Wednesday, working out before a packed house of enthusiastic fans at St. David’s Hall just three days before their Heavyweight World Championship Unification this Saturday live on SHOWTIME.

The near-capacity crowd at the National Concert Hall of Wales is a prelude to the record-tying audience expected at Principality Stadium on Saturday where nearly 80,000 fans will match boxing’s all-time indoor attendance record, initially set in 2017 in Joshua’s title defense against Carlos Takam at the same venue.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT from ringside in Cardiff as IBF and WBA Champion Joshua (20-0, 20 KOs) and WBO Champion Parker (24-0, 18 KOs) meet in just the second unification between undefeated heavyweight champions in history.

The 6-foot-6 Joshua will make his fifth defense as champion against the 6-foot-4 Parker, who defends his title for the third time. Joshua owns a 100 percent knockout ratio while Parker has never been knocked down as an amateur or professional.

Here’s what the fighters had to say on Wednesday:

ANTHONY JOSHUA:

“This is bigger than last time. Boxing is bigger than ever right now. This is the golden era and I’m happy to be a part of it.

“It’s good news that he wants a war. In boxing, all you need is a good chin and a right hand but I’ve been working on finesse, technique, counter punching. I hope Joseph Parker falls into my booby traps because I’m going to set him up with some power shots as well. Yeah, I’ll be up for a war. I’ll hopefully be up for some blood, sweat, and cheers from my corner.

“Physically I believe in my ability. I’m focused and I understand it’s a boxing match and the people are expecting the pinnacle of boxing. Hopefully they’ll be able to see me through to victory.

“You need to still keep that challenger’s mind-set. I’m still the challenger in my head, and sometimes I don’t want to be seen with the belts around me too much. Now that I’m the hunted, it’s no time to just put my feet up and relax. I’m out there defending my throne on Saturday night.

“I can’t worry about it [futures bouts]. Saturday night is where it’s at. Saturday night is big enough. Saturday night is massive.”

JOSEPH PARKER:

“Since we’ve been here we’ve been welcomed with open arms. I expect a good crowd, a fair crowd. There are a lot of people supporting Joshua here, but we have a lot of support back home. It’s great to see all my family and friends here, and we’ve got some support here, as well.

“All Black (New Zealand rugby) style has always done well here in Wales, so I’m looking to keep that record clean.”

“I think some of the things our team has said has gotten under his skin. I’m not unhappy. He looks a little unhappy and a little tense. I think everyone’s different in how they approach a fight. We’re quite relaxed and calm. I’m excited about this fight, but it’s a controlled excitement.

“Klitschko’s a great fighter and champion who we respect, but Klitschko is Klitschko. I’m a different story altogether. I’m young and hungry, I’m fit and strong and I got my speed back. I will show that on Saturday.

“I’ve got the speed, power, skills, technique, all of the above.

“See you soon, [Anthony Joshua]. Let’s go to war!”

Nutley, NJ (March 28, 2018)–Undefeated super middleweight contender Ronald Ellis returns to action for the 1st time since his controversial draw with Junior Younan when he takes on upset specialist Taneal Goyco this Friday night at The Fillmore in Philadelphia.

Ellis of Lynn, Massachusetts and now is training out of Los Angeles, has been working hard since the February 2nd fight with Younan. In that bout Ellis forced the action, and most ringside observers thought that Ellis should have squeaked out the decision.

Friday night, Ellis will look to notch his 15th victory against two draws.

“Everything is good. I got right back in the gym after the last fight. When I watched the fight again, I could have done a little bit bit more, but he ran all night. Hopefully Goyco will stand and fight on Friday night,” said Ellis.

Ellis believes by the end of the year, that he will be right in the mix of the hot super middleweight division.

“I still have a lot to prove, But I am a contender that is continuously climbing the rankings. I just need that opponent who will bring the best out of me. My plan is to get another fight on television after this one. I know Goyco is no pushover I have been training for and treat him like all of my other opponents.”

The 28 year-old is looking forward to performing in front of the knowledgeable fight fans in Philadelphia.

“Philadelphia fans always knows when there is a good fight. There have been a lot of good fighters from Philadelphia, and they are real fight fans there. I am really excited to perform in front of them.”

“Ronald is close to a big fight. I am looking to step him back up in the early part of the Summer. I feel by the end of the year, he will be in a major fight in the super middleweight division. I expect him to look great on Friday night, and we are excited to watch him perform on Friday night,” said GH3 Promotions CEO, Vito Mielnicki.

MULVANE, Kansas (March 28, 2018) – USA Olympian and current IBA Americas flyweight champion, Nico Hernandez (4-0, 3 KOs), will take on Hungarian flyweight titlist Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai (21-9, 13 KOs) on Saturday, May 19, for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) World Flyweight Championship.

The 12-round Hernandez vs, Ajtai main event will mark the first world title fight in Kansas boxing history, headlining the KO Night Boxing: High Stakes event, at Kansas Star Arena.

Pre-sale tickets go on sale Thursday, March 29 at 10 a.m. CT at Ticketmaster, Lucky Star Players Club at Kansas Star Casino, or call 1-800-745-3000 (pre-sale code is HIGHSTAKES).

General public tickets go on sale Friday, Mar. 30 at 10 a.m. CT.

Prices are $120.00 (VIP), $80.00, $50.00 and $30.00 (prices do not include service fees).

This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. CT.

Additional details about the remainder of the “KO Night Boxing: High Stakes” card, including event broadcast details, will soon be announced.

“This is a tremendous opportunity for both Nico and Jozsef,” said John Andersen, promoter of KO Night Boxing. “The IBA has made great strides with world champions like light heavyweight Sergey Kovalev. Hernandez versus Ajtai is a match up that will certainly further elevate the winner’s career. I can also let fans know that this May 19th card will have other title belt matches with world-ranking implications that will truly make this event a ‘High Stakes’ show. Fight fans will not want to miss this historic fight. We’d also like to thank Kansas Star for making this happen.”

“We’re honored to be involved in an event of this nature,” IBA president J.C. Courregescommented, featuring a U.S. Olympian and an outstanding European boxer. We’re thrilled the IBA will be the first World Championship contested in Kansas boxing history.”

The long, prestigious list of IBA world champions during the past quarter-centory includes Hall-of-Famers Oscar de la Hoya, George Foreman, Roberto Duran and Arturo Gatti, as well as stars such as Roy Jones, Jr., Bernard Hopkins, Shane Mosely, James Toney, Mikkel Kessler, Eric Morales, Diego Corrales, Jose Luis Castillo, Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver.

INFORMATION:

www.internationalboxingassociation.com

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CONTACT:
Bob Trieger, KO Night Boxing, bobtfcp@hotmail.com, 978.590.0470, @FightPublicist
About KO Night Boxing LLC
KO Night Boxing is an emerging combat sports promotional company whose core value is “Fighters First!” KO Night Boxing produces live events for CBS Sports Network. Follow us on Twitter @KONightBoxing

About Kansas Star Arena
The Kansas Star Arena, a Boyd Gaming facility, is located just off Exit 33 on the Kansas Turnpike and is adjacent to the Kansas Star Casino. The 42,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Kansas Star Arena is south-central Kansas’ home for big-name national acts such as Journey, Pat Benatar, Championship Rodeo, mixed martial arts events and more. The Arena accommodates up to 6,500 guests for headliner events. In 2014, Midwest Gaming and Travel awarded the Kansas Star more than 25 honors in its annual Reader’s Choice Awards, including “Best Concert Venue” in the state of Kansas. For more information, visitkansasstarcasino.com. Connect with Kansas Star Arena at facebook.com/kansasstararenaand www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Boyd Gaming is a leading diversified owner and operator of 24 gaming entertainment properties located in Nevada, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Boyd Gaming and Kansas Star Casino press releases are available at boydgaming.mediaroom.com.

Philadelphia, PA (March 28, 2018) – Rising super middleweight Brandon Robinson is gearing up for his maiden headlining appearance when he takes on veteran Oscar Riojas in a eight-round bout on Friday, April 6th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The 9 bout show is promoted by King’s Promotions.

Robinson (9-1, 7 KOs) has been on a roll as he he has won his last nine bouts in a row, and is getting better with each performance.

The 29 year-old has paid his dues, and has worked his way up the card.

“It feels great to headline. It is a very humbling experience, especially after losing my pro debut, and then being on the bottom of the card. It drives me,” said Robinson.

“My camp has been great. I am feeling really strong. I have been doing a lot of strength and conditioning as well as a a lot of good boxing. I am feeling very comfortable as I go into this fight.”

In Riojas, he is facing a 25-fight veteran, who has faced six-undefeated opponents.

“Riojas has faced world class opposition. He is a strong, hard nosed fighter who is determined. I am looking for a fight that will cause a lot of fireworks on April 6.”

Robinson feels he is just now coming into his own, and his best boxing is yet to come.

“I am coming together well. I don’t have a lot of amateur experience (Robinson had just 4 amateur fights), I am not burnt out. Sometimes these guys get burned out after a long amateur career. I am just seeing the beginning of what I can do, and the best is yet to come. I want to continue to stay active, and if I don’t get bruised up in a fight, I want to get back right in the gym and dight as soon as possible.”

“It’s always Gorilla season. I am looking to put on a great show as the main event on April 6th. A show-stopping performance, and make a big statement.”

In the eight-round co-feature, former world title challenger Jose Gonzalez (24-2, 19 KOs) of Toa Baja, PR will take on an opponent to be named in a super lightweight bout.

It will be an eight-round battle of undefeated super bantamweights when Marcus Bates (8-0-1, 7 KOs) of Washington, DC will fight Raeese Aleem (10-0, 5 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV.

Also in a six-round bout, Steven Ortiz (8-0, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia will see action against an opponent to be named in a lightweight battle.

Colby Madison (6-0-1, 4 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Guillermo Del Rio (2-2, 2 KOs) of South Houston, TX in a six-round heavyweight battle.

Joshaphat Ortiz (2-0, 1 KO) of Reading, PA fights Evgueny Metchenov (0-1) of Forestville, MD in a junior light bout scheduled for four rounds.

Poindexter Knight (2-0, 2 KOs) fights Vincent Floyd (3-4-1, 2 KOs) in a battle of Philadelphia based welterweights.

Rasheed Johnson (3-1, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Denis Okoth (1-0-1, 1 KO) of Siaya, KE in a welterweight bout.

Kendall Cannida (1-0) of Philadelphia boxes pro debuting Carlos Villenueva of Philadelphia in a light heavyweight tussle.

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

About ELEVEN SPORTS:

ELEVEN SPORTS is available in 70 million homes worldwide in Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Singapore, Taiwan and the United States. Launched in the US in March 2017, ELEVEN SPORTS is dedicated to delivering world-class domestic and international sports and lifestyle entertainment ‘For The Fans’. Sports fans will be treated to a unique mix of emerging and established sports combined to provide engaging and compelling LIVE entertainment, placing the viewer at the very heart of the action.

Like us on Facebook: ElevenSportsUSA
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Las Vegas (March 28, 2018) – Three-Time World Champion Winky Wright has confirmed that he will appear to Meet & Greet his fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 4th edition of Box Fan Expo that will take place Saturday May 5, 2018 from 10am to 5pm, during Cinco De Mayo fight weekend.

Wright will appear for the first time at this year’s Expo, where he will be signing gloves, photos and merchandise at the Box Fan Expo Store Booth for fans to enjoy. Boxing fans will also have a great opportunity to take pictures with the 2018 International Boxing Hall of Famer.

About Winky Wright
Winky Wright is an American former professional boxer who competed from 1990 to 2012. He is a 3-Time light middleweight world champion and remains the last to hold the undisputed title at that weight. Some of Wright most notable wins came against “Sugar” Shane Mosley, Tito Trinidad and Ike Quartey. In 2005, The Ring magazine ranked him as the world’s second-best pound for pound boxer. In 2017, it was announced that Wright had been elected as an International Boxing Hall of Fame member, alongside Vitali Klitschko and Erik Morales, with the induction ceremony scheduled for June 2018 in Canastota, New York.

Wright joins, Jessie Vargas, David Benavidez, Jose Benavidez, Zab Judah, Shannon Briggs, Badou Jack, Kelly Pavlik, Erik Morales and Fernando Vargas among early commitments to this year’s Box Fan Expo.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on the Box Fan Expo is available at: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

You can follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter at: https://www.twitter.com/BoxFanExpo

and on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

EL PASO, TX (March 28, 2018) – Action will be the order of the evening as a trio of hotly-contested showdowns will highlight an exciting night Saturday, April 28 live in primetime on Premier Boxing Champions on FOX and FOX Deportes from the Don Haskins Center in El Paso, Texas.

Josesito Lopez, known as “The Riverside Rocky”, will battle rising contender Miguel Cruz in a 10-round welterweight showdown. Former super middleweight world champion Anthony Dirrell takes on El Paso’s Abraham Han in a 10-round 168-pound skirmish. The night also features unbeaten Mexican featherweight contender Jorge Lara clashing with Dominican brawler Claudio Marrero in the 10-round opening bout that kicks off coverage at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale today, March 28 at 10 a.m. MT and can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

“This is an all-action show that has all of the elements that boxing fans have come to love,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Miguel Cruz is a talented rising contender who will be taking a major step up against a hardened veteran in Josesito Lopez. Anthony Dirrell is a former world champion who is anxious to get back into the title picture and El Paso’s own Abraham Han has title aspirations of his own. And Jorge Lara and Claudio Marrero are two of the biggest punchers in the featherweight division. It promises to be a very entertaining show for boxing fans.”

Lopez (35-7, 19 KOs) is a battle-tested veteran who has been in the ring with some of the top boxers in the sport, including Marcos Maidana, Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Jessie Vargas. The 33-year-old Lopez of Riverside, California scored one of the biggest wins of his career when he stopped Victor Ortiz by TKO in 2012. He has been on a two-fight win streak since losing to Andre Berto and in his last fight he defeated Saul Corral by a unanimous decision on April 9, 2017 live on FS1.

“Miguel Cruz has not faced a fighter on my level,” said Lopez. “I’m the most experienced fighter that Cruz will have fought. I’m confident in my abilities and the fact that I will come out with a victory. I’m ready to go straight through Miguel Cruz and prove I’m one of the best welterweights in the world.”

Cruz (17-0, 11 KOs) will be taking a major step forward in his career when he takes on Lopez. The 27-year-old Cruz of Lake Mary, Florida was a member of the Puerto Rican national team as an amateur and picked up four victories in 2017. In his last fight he battled adversity by overcoming two cuts to score a unanimous decision over David Grayton on Nov. 21 on FS1 and also defeated then unbeaten Alex Martin twice in 2017 in a pair of exciting contests on FS1.

“I am incredibly excited to have a fight of this magnitude because this is what I’ve always worked for,” said Cruz. “I’m so ready to test my skills against somebody like Josesito Lopez. I belong to a new era in boxing, and I’m going to shine for the world on April 28. This is going to be an amazing fight for the fans and I’m ready for everyone to enjoy my performance.”

Dirrell (31-1-1, 24 KOs), a former super middleweight world champion from Flint, Michigan, is coming off a technical decision victory over Denis Douglin in November on FS1. The 33-year-old Dirrell won the title with a unanimous decision over Sakio Bika in 2015 before dropping a majority decision in 2016 to Badou Jack. Since that loss, Dirrell has won four straight, including a TKO victory over current 168-pound world champion Caleb Truax in 2016.

“Abraham Han is a good fighter coming off of a tough draw with J’Leon Love, and a guy you can’t look past,” said Dirrell. “Caleb Truax proved that by beating James DeGale for the title, so I’m truly focused on this fight right now. He’s a tall, switch-hitter who comes straight forward, but that’s nothing I can’t handle because I’m always ready and in shape to stick to my game plan and execute. I’m always looking for the knockout, and if it comes, then it comes, and I’ll get him out of there.”

Han (26-3-1, 16 KOs) returns to fight in his hometown of El Paso for the ninth time, including a victory he picked up at Don Haskins Center in his fifth pro fight. The 33-year-old is looking to rebound from a technical draw against J’Leon Love last September, in a fight many thought Han was winning before the referee stopped the fight due to a cut caused by an accidental headbutt. He had won three fights in a row heading into that bout against Love.

“Anthony Dirrell probably sees me as someone that he can beat while he waits for a title shot, but I’m looking to mess up his plans,” said Han. “I felt like I won my last fight with J’Leon and would have easily beat him if it wasn’t stopped. This is another great opportunity to fight in my hometown of El Paso. I’ll focus on winning round-by-round and putting on a great show for my fans. I know everyone is going to come out and support me and help carry me to this victory.”

Lara (29-0-1, 21 KOs) has scored two victories, including a knockout against former champion Fernando Montiel, since he had a technical draw against Jesus Rojas in 2015. He knocked down Montiel four times on the way to the first round stoppage in their April 2016 showdown on FOX. The 27-year-old southpaw from Guadalajara, Mexico has shown heavy hands for a featherweight and is coming off a TKO victory over Mario Briones in his last fight on May 20 on FS1.

“I have been training with former champion Alejandro Gonzalez, and four weeks out from the fight, I am already in excellent condition and in tremendous fighting shape,” said Lara. “I know that this is a very important fight, and that Marrero is a very tough opponent, but I am going to be the winner because I am determined to continue on my road toward winning a world title. After that, we’ll see which champion will be ready to give me the opportunity.”

Marrero (22-2, 16 KOs) was riding an eight-fight win streak before losing by knockout to Jesus Rojas in his last fight. Inside of that eight-fight win streak the 29-year-old Dominican southpaw scored a sensational knockout victory over Carlos Zambrano to earn an interim featherweight title on FS1. The only other blemish on Marrero’s record was a unanimous decision loss to former world champion Jesus Cuellar in 2013.

“I’m excited to be fighting on April 28 on this great show in El Paso,” said Marrero. “I’m fighting an undefeated tough Mexican fighter, but this is the type of fight I wanted to put myself back into title contention. I’m really excited to get in there. Come fight night, you will see ‘The Matrix’ in full effect. Don’t miss it because it’s going to be a great fight.”

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

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

OSSEO, MN (March 27, 2018) – IBF Super Middleweight World Champion Caleb “Golden” Truax shocked the boxing world when he defeated then champion James DeGale last December in London to claim his world title. Now, Truax prepares for an equally difficult task as he is set to defend the title in a rematch against DeGale Saturday, April 7 live on SHOWTIME from Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

The Premier Boxing Champions event is headlined by Erislandy Lara, the longest reigning world champion at 154-pounds, clashing with undefeated champion Jarrett Hurd in a highly anticipated 154-pound world title unification bout. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT and features Julian Williams and Nathaniel Gallimore meeting in a 154-pound world title eliminator.

The Osseo, Minnesota-native was a significant underdog when he went on the road to the U.K. to challenge DeGale in his return from a shoulder injury. Truax was able to overcome his perceived disadvantages by seemingly catching DeGale off-guard and under prepared, something that he believes could happen again on April 7.

“I think DeGale overlooked me last time and I think he’s doing it again this time,” said Truax. “I see him already talking about fighting David Benavidez and George Groves. Did he not learn his lesson the first time?

“I think his injury talk is an excuse as well. He said his arm and shoulder felt fine heading into and immediately after the fight last December. I don’t believe any of that injury talk. It means nothing to me.”

Truax put his small hometown in Minnesota on the boxing map with his championship-winning victory, but hasn’t let any newfound recognition change his routine or demeanor.

“The reaction here in Minnesota has been fantastic ever since I returned from London,” said Truax. “Everybody at home has shown me so much love. I’ve definitely been busier than I used to be, and I suppose that comes with the territory, but I still stay pretty low-key. I have my routine and I love just being with my two-year-old daughter and the rest of my family and friends. Overall I’ve just tried to stay true to who I am and live the same lifestyle.”

A graduate of the University of Minnesota with a degree in Sociology, Truax is currently carrying the mantle for the Minnesota boxing scene and hopes that his victory can inspire it to grow. Truax is just the third Minnesota-born fighter to win a world title.

“Me capturing this world title has been huge for our boxing community here,” said Truax. “I was the first guy since Will Grigsby in the 2000s to do it. There haven’t been many champions from here and people are excited to have another homegrown champion again. Hopefully this will get more people around here into gyms and the sport of boxing.”

Truax is now deep into training to prove that he has staying power as a champion by defeating DeGale for a second time.

“The great thing about the last fight is that I came out of it with no injuries,” said Truax. “I was back in the gym before Christmas. Normally I only have about six weeks to prepare for an opponent. But this time around, we knew who we were coming back for and had a long time to prepare.

“We’re working on adjustments that we expect he’s making and things he’s probably doing to get better. We’ll see what he comes up with on fight night but it’ll be up to me to counter.”

With more time in training camp to prepare, the champion will look to improve on his impressive first performance and make another statement to the boxing world.

“I plan on applying pressure and seeing how he reacts,” said Truax. “If he doesn’t’ adjust, then I don’t see it going any different than the first fight. I’m real confident I’m going to stop James DeGale this time.”

Tickets for the show, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Mayweather Promotions, are on sale now and available by visiting AXS.com or the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas Box Office.

# # #

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

LONDON (March 27, 2018) – Undefeated heavyweight world champions Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker kicked off fight week with a tense faceoff at the sprawling Sky Headquarters outside London as they approach Saturday’s Heavyweight World Championship Unification live on SHOWTIME from Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.

The British sensation Joshua (20-0, 20 KOs) owns the IBF and WBA titles, while New Zealand’s Parker (24-0, 18 KOs) is the reigning WBO Champion. The two will meet on Saturday in just the 11th unification in heavyweight history in front of what is expected to be nearly 80,000 boxing fans at the national stadium of Wales.

The blockbuster matchup marks just the second heavyweight championship unification between undefeated world titleholders. The last fighter to emerge victorious from a matchup of unbeaten heavyweight champions was Mike Tyson in 1987.

Here’s what the fighters had to say at Tuesday’s press conference.

ANTHONY JOSHUA:

“I feel like this is what we have to do. If champions don’t face off, then we won’t bring excitement to boxing, and I feel like we heavyweights are the flagbearers for the sport.

“I’m peaking, but what I need to do is remain where I am. If you want to see my peak then I need to face stern challenges. The better opponent, the better I get.

“We embrace the challenge of facing an undefeated champion. He’s a champion, he’s done well for himself. He’s quick and he can take a punch.

“I have to mentally say the fight will go 12 rounds in my head, but if I had to pick I’d say nine rounds. I win by knockout, 100 percent.”

“For a long time, I’ve had to rely on my strength and my physicality. Over the 10 years I’ve been boxing, I’ve built a lot of mental strength as well. And now I’m combining the two. I feel confident and I’m looking forward to the challenge.

“I take it one thousand percent one fight at a time. A lot of talk has been happening about AJ vs. Deontay (Wilder). People need to be realistic. I’m looking at Joseph Parker, who is a lively challenger. He’s a champion for a reason.

“Let’s say we look into a crystal ball and I’m victorious, then we can start talking about future plans. But, for now, my future starts on Saturday. That’s where I’ve got to look to and not really beyond that moment.

“There’s definitely a fear of losing because it keeps me going. I have to make sure I stay focused on the task at hand. The fear of losing keeps me motivated because I know how quickly the tables can turn. One minute you’re the man and the next you’re not.

“I’m definitely preparing for a 12-round fight. One hundred and ten percent. It isn’t a problem to go the distance. But let’s say I’ve got 20 quid in my pocket and I’m looking at Joseph Parker vs. Anthony Joshua. I believe Anthony Joshua will knock Joseph Parker out, myself.”

JOSHEPH PARKER:

“I feel ready, confident and sharp. I feel better than ever, and I’m taking these belts back to New Zealand.

“I see Joshua as a great champion. The reason why we wanted this fight is because we respect what he’s achieved in the boxing world. We respect his team and what they’ve been able to achieve on this side of the world. And we love challenges. We see him as a big challenge and that’s the reason we want to fight him.

“I feel it’s my time. I’m young, I’m fast, I’m strong. And I’m determined to win. I’m not here for a payday. I’m here to take those belts back with me. I’m here to be part of history. I’m not doing it just for myself. I’m doing it for my team, my family and my country.

“He’s at his best. I’m at my best. This is the perfect time for the fight. There are going to be no excuses. Whoever wins is the best on the day.

“I’m going to beat Joshua. I haven’t decided how I want to beat him yet. I don’t know if it’s a knockout or if it’s points or decision. We’ll see how I feel on fight night. But I’m going to be undefeated going home with the belts. These are mine.

“I’m in the best shape ever. Whoever wins is the better man. There’s no excuses on my side. I’m feeling great, I’m feeling strong and I’m going to leave it all in the ring. I’m punching hard, I’m punching with way more speed so I’m looking to put on a display.

“This is the perfect time because he’s undefeated. He’s got belts that I want. We’re both at the top of our game now and it’s a good time to see who the best is.

“I’m confident I’m going to win. I’m taking the belts home.”

ROBERT McCRACKEN, Joshua’s Trainer:

“Parker is a different opponent than Takam or Klitschko. He’s undefeated, so he doesn’t believe he can lose. But being fast and being calm and relaxed doesn’t prepare you for getting into a ring with Anthony Joshua. Not just the size of him, he’s very imposing in the ring, but he hits you and you don’t know where you’re getting hit. I think we’ve seen that in all of his contests to date.

“Anthony’s in great shape. He’s looking forward to the fight and he just sees it as another fight on the ladder to trying to become the undisputed champion. That’s the reason why the fight is taking place.

“Parker’s the WBO champion. He’s a good fighter. He’s unbeaten and he’s a challenge that AJ is up for.

“He ticks all the boxes. He can box. He can fight. He’s a devastating puncher, himself. And he can take a devastating shot, so he’s improving all the time. He’s learning all the time. He’s already the unified champion. He’s already an Olympic gold medalist. It’s part of the journey that he sees himself becoming the undisputed champion.”

KEVIN BARRY: Parker’s Trainer

“These are two guys that are young, two guys that are at the top of their game. Usually, when you have two very skillful, undefeated fighters in the ring together it will come down to who can execute the game plan the best on the night. I’ve said all along that I believed out of all the heavyweight champions, that Joseph Parker has the best skill. I believe he can do more. I believe he has the fastest hands. On Saturday night, we’ll find out whether I’m dreaming or whether I’ve been right all along.

“I think we’ve had our best training camp, and I know trainers say that all the time but over the last two years, we’ve had a really rough time with Joseph’s elbows. I think it’s shown in his performances. We’ve had a couple of surgeries just prior to Christmas last year. This camp, 11 weeks in Las Vegas, have been the most enjoyable time that Joe and I have spent together in the five years that we’ve had.

“We decided right from the get-go that we were not going to let the occasion beat us. One of the huge strengths of Joseph Parker has always been the way he controls his emotions. I’ve said on several occasions, whether it’s 800, 8,000 or 80,000, it will be the same Joseph Parker smiling all the way to the ring. Joseph has wanted this challenge for so long, an opportunity to prove that he is the best heavyweight in the world. Obviously, we believe that he beats Joshua or otherwise, we wouldn’t be here.”

Philadelphia, PA (March 27, 2018) – This Friday night, welterweight contender, Raymond “Tito” Serrano will look for his 4th consecutive victory when he takes on undefeated prospect Malik Hawkins in the 10-round main event at The Fillmore in Serrano’s hometown of Philadelphia.

Serrano whose winning streak has coincided with his changing of training venues to Los Angeles, has defeated three fighters in a row that sport a combined record of 25-4.

In his last outing, the 28 year-old Serrano was impressive in defeating previously undefeated Enver Halili via 8th round disqualification.

“I had a great training camp. Freddie Roach trained me and I will be cornered by his assistant Ernie Zavala on Friday,” said Serrano. “Training in Los Angeles is a big part of my winning streak. Out there, I am always around big fighters, and I can focus on boxing 100% of the time.”

Another big part of his resurgence is his manager Mark Cipparone of Club 1957 Management. Cipparone has helped put Serrano in the best possible situation for Serrano to succeed, and Serrano fully acknowledges that.

“Mark is certainly a big part of this. He makes sure that I get tested in each fight. The reason that I am around such good training is because of him. With all that, I feel that I can compete with anyone at welterweight, and I will continue to show it.”

In Hawkins, Serrano is facing an undefeated but untested foe, and he feels with his confidence at a sky high level and ring experience will prove to be the difference.

“Hawkins is undefeated, but this is not the first undefeated fighter that I have fought (It will be his 6th undefeated opponent). I know he is young, so I want to see what he has. I am more experienced, and that will be a huge factor on Friday. Experience is everything. I know what it takes to beat these guys. I don;t think he will be able to do to me what he has to his previous opponents.”

Cipparone has been seeing the steady improvement in the 11 year-veteran Serrano.

“His last four fights have developed him further then he has at any point in his career. I would even say beginning with his fight against (Undefeated Prospect) Alex Saucedo. Raymond would have won the fight if he didn’t get caught in the 2nd round. Look at the scores. I think that fight was a turning point for him. It gave him the confidence that he could compete on the level of the top of the division,” said Cipparone, who also manages heavyweight Joey Dawejko.

“Raymond has the natural ability to go along with a tremendous ring I.Q. He is such a sophisticated fighter in there, and now he has found that warrior inside of him. I feel it is his time to get to the top of the welterweight division. This fight is a gift to the promoters as it is for the NABA-USA title with the winner not only going to get the belt, but a ranking in the WBA. You don’t see fights like this on the club level shows.”

Nutley, NJ (March 27, 2018)–Starting this Friday, GH3 Promotions will be active as eight of the Promotional outfit’s fighters will be in action over the next six weeks.

Friday night at the Fillmore in Philadelphia, undefeated super middleweight Ronald Ellis (14-0-2, 10 KOs) will take on upset specialist Taneal Goyco (9-10-1, 4 KOs) in a bout scheduled for six rounds.

On the same card, undefeated super welterweight Joey Alday, Jr (6-0, 6 KOs) will battle Michael Crain (1-1) in a four round bout.

On April 12th in Chicago, Kenneth Sims, Jr. (12-1, 4 KOs) will be making his 1st start since his lone defeat when he returns to action in a six-round junior welterweight bout.

On April 21st in Paramus, New Jersey, heavyweight Ronnie Hines will make his professional debut while lightweight Joel Flores, Jr. (0-0-1) will see action in four-round bouts

May 4th will see Alday come back to Philadelphia, and appearing on the same card will be undefeated super bantamweight Malik Jackson (2-0, 2 KOs)

Finally on May 11th, super bantamweight contender Adam Lopez (16-2-2, 8 KOs) will fight in an eight-round bout while undefeated lightweight Thomas Mattice (11-0, 9 KOs) will see action in a six-round bout.

“We are gearing to continue to move our fighters this Spring. We are planning several big shows in the Summer where our more advanced fighters will continue to step up the competition. That all begins this Friday in Philadelphia with Ronald Ellis, who is coming off the draw with Junior Younan in a bout we thought he deserved to get the decision. I am excited to see Joey Alday make his first start under our promotional banner, and what better place to unveil a knockout artist then in front of the knowledgeable boxing fans in Philadelphia,” said GH3 Promotions CEO, Vito Mielnicki.

Las Vegas (March 26, 2018) – Three Time World Champion Jessie Vargas has confirmed that he will appear, have a booth and hold a Meet & Greet with his fans at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the 4th edition of Box Fan Expo that will take place
Saturday May 5, 2018 from 10am to 5pm, during Cinco De Mayo fight weekend.

Vargas will once again appear at this year’s Expo where he will be launching and introducing his new “Jessie Vargas Tequila Signature Bottle” products. Vargas will be signing gloves, photos and will also have merchandise for fans to enjoy. Boxing fans will also have a great opportunity to take pictures with this boxing star. Vargas will also be involved in a mega fight event versus Adrien Broner on April 21st at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The fight will be Live on Showtime Boxing, Presented by Premier Boxing Champions “PBC” and co-promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Dibella Entertainment.

Vargas is a Mexican American professional boxer who is a former two-weight world champion, having held the WBA (Regular) and IBO super lightweight titles in 2014 and the WBO welterweight title in 2016.

Vargas joins, David Benavidez, José Benavidez, Zab Judah, Shannon Briggs, Badou Jack, Kelly Pavlik, Erik Morales and Fernando Vargas among early commitments to this year’s Box Fan Expo.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on the Box Fan Expo is available at: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

You can follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter at: https://www.twitter.com/BoxFanExpo

and on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

Philadelphia, PA /White Plains, NY (March 26, 2018) — Undefeated, two-time world champion Demetrius Andrade (25-0, 16 KOs) is ready and available for a showdown with unified middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin, should Canelo Alvarez not be cleared by the Nevada State Athletic Commission on April 10th for his May 5th rematch with Golovkin.

Andrade, who is ranked number 1 by the WBO in the middleweight division, feels that if Alvarez is not cleared by the commission for his recent positive test for Clenbuterol, he would be the most obvious candidate to face Golovkin.

“I am ready, willing and able to step to the plate on May 5th to fight Golovkin,” stated Andrade. “I am always in the gym, and I will start VADA testing right now. I guarantee that I will pass all the tests. I know other fighters can’t say the same thing. I am undefeated, and a two-time world champion. Golovkin went through a period where nobody wanted to fight him. I am that guy now. The man nobody wants to fight. Everyone says what does Demetrius Andrade bring to the table? Besides being the best American middleweight, and one of the top 3 middleweights in the world, everyone knows who I am, and the know how good I am. My question is to those who say that I don’t bring anything to the table. What did Murray, Adama, Geale, Monroe and Rosado bring to the table? None of the top contenders want to fight me so I believe that if Canelo is unavailable for May 5th, I want the opportunity to face Golovkin for the unified middleweight championship of the world.”

Golovkin’s Promoter Tom Loeffler stated after Alvarez was temporarily suspended that his fighter will still compete on May 5th with or without Alvarez.

“Whatever the commission does, Gennady would still fight May 5th if Canelo is out,” he said. “If for some reason it’s not against Canelo, we’ll figure out the best course of action at that time, but he is training to fight May 5th.”, Loeffler told Dan Rafael of ESPN.com

Like Golovkin, Andrade is also in the gym, and will be ready should he get the call for May 5th.

Andrade is promoted by Banner Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

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

Twitter, Instagram: @StarBoxing
Facebook: facebook.com/starboxing
Youtube: youtube.com/starboxing

ong Island, New York, March 26, 2018

Star Boxing’s critically acclaimed ‘Rockin’ Fights’ returns to The Paramount, Long Island’s premier venue, on June 8th. Kick off your summer in style with an event like no other, that emulates the true culture of New York boxing.

As a loyal fan of Star Boxing, and the Rockin’ Fights series, you will have access to tickets before anyone else. Get your tickets, beginning today, by using code ‘STAR’ to gain early access before tickets go on sale to the general public, HERE.

ABOUT ROCKIN’ FIGHTS:
Star Boxing’s series at The Paramount has developed some of Long Island and Star Boxing’s biggest stars, like former world champion Chris Algieri, light heavyweight star Joe Smith Jr. and jr. welterweight knockout artist Cletus “The Hebrew Hammer” Seldin.

Star Boxing has also brought in talent from all over the world to the Paramount including two-time world champion Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade (Rhode Island), and former world champion, Joshua Clottey (Ghana, Africa).

Rockin’ Fights at The Paramount has continuously sold out (this is Star Boxing’s 31st show there) with a Long Island crowd that fills the venue with unrivaled energy. The series has even brought out the likes of celebrities such as actor Burt Young, famously known for his role in Rocky and hip-hop artist and actor LL Cool J, amongst many others.

The Rockin’ Fights series at The Paramount offers an affordable and extremely entertaining night out, that is guaranteed to see action packed professional fighting from the opening bout, through the main event.

On June 8th, Star Boxing plans to make the 31st edition of Rockin’ Fights yet another thrilling night of entertainment.

Get your tickets early, before they sell out! This night of fights is something you will not want to miss. Get your tickets HERE.

For your awareness, Roc Nation Sports is announcing a slate of upcoming bouts for three of its boxers – Darmani Rock (10-0, 6 KOs), Tramaine Williams (14-0, 5 KOs), and Tyler McCreary (14-0, 6 KOs).

At The Fillmore Philadelphia on March 30, Darmani “Rock Solid” Rock will open his 2018 campaign by taking on Ronny Hale (4-11, 4 KO’s) in a six-round heavyweight bout. It will be Rock’s first fight since Dec. 1 – when he knocked out Carlos Cotto at the 2:34-mark of the first round – and third bout since his return from a fractured finger.

On that same card, Tramaine “Mighty Midget” Williams will square off against Antonio Rodriguez (12-20, 5 KOs) in a six-round featherweight bout. The New Haven, Connecticut native dispatched German Meraz on Dec. 15 in a unanimous decision victory via a 100-89 score on all three scorecards.

Finally, Tyler “Golden Child” McCreary will return to the ring on April 7 – after an nine-month layoff – and go up against Gustavo Molina (25-18, 9 KOs) at the Rising Sun Casino in Indiana for a six-round junior lightweight battle. When McCreary last fought in the ring on July 29, he recorded a unanimous decision victory over Edward Kakembo to preserve his unbeaten record.

Saturday night at the Sport Hall Energia in Narva, Estonia, rising and undefeated Russian female star Elena Gradinar picked up her first professional title, the IBF Inter-Continental Female Featherweight Championship, with a unanimous decision over Canadian former WBC world champion Olivia Gerula.

Gradinar (9-0, 2 KOs) dominated the more experienced Gerula over the 10-round distance, winning by scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 99-91.

“I am very happy with the win and my IBF belt,” said Gradinar, post-fight. “I want to fight Jennifer Han for the IBF world title. I want to do my part in lifting women’s boxing to the next level and fight the best.”

Her co-promoter, Dmitriy Salita (along with Alexander Nevsky Promotion Group), has made a firm commitment to women’s boxing by signing several current and upcoming female superstars including world champions Claressa Shields and Christina Hammer, as well as top prospects Franchon Crews Dezurn, Elena Savelyeva and Gradinar.

Salita says this is just the start of a terrific 2018 for Gradinar. “With the win Elena has cemented herself as one of the best female featherweights in the world. This is going to be a big year for Elena and women’s boxing.”

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

24 March 2018 – Bangkok, Thailand: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), held a historic evening in Bangkok as the capacity crowd at the Impact Arena witnessed an amazing display of heart-pounding martial arts action. ONE: IRON WILL sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the state-of-the-art stadium as the card featured a series of compelling bouts, punctuated by an unforgettable championship clash. In the main event, Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes of Brazil remained the undisputed king of ONE Championship’s bantamweight division, defeating two-division world champion Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Australia.

Visit the official ONE: IRON WILL photo gallery by clicking: http://bit.ly/onephotos

In a gruelling five-round title tiff, reigning ONE Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes of Brazil turned in a gutsy performance, overcoming a spirited effort from ONE Featherweight & Lightweight World Champion Martin “The Situ-Asian” Nguyen of Sydney, Australia to win via razor-thin split decision. The action was electric all throughout the bout, with both men having their moments. Although Nguyen landed the harder, more telling blows, Fernandes was the busier ma and performed slightly better overall with his takedowns and accurate combinations. In the final frame, Fernandes pulled away just slightly, outworking Nguyen over the last five minutes of the contest. In the end, the Brazilian did just enough to retain his title in front of a packed Impact Arena crowd. The victory cemented Fernandes’ claim as the best in the world at bantamweight, earning him a record eight title defenses to remain the most dominant ONE world champion in history.

Bibiano Fernandes, ONE Bantamweight World Champion, stated: “I said I would win, and I did. I really live for these challenges. I’m the champion, and I’m here to stay. I’m the best bantamweight in the world. I’ve proven it many times. Bangkok, Thailand — thank you for having me.”

In the co-main event of the evening, Jeremy “The Jaguar” Miado of the Philippines overcame insurmountable odds, knocking out former world champion Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke in the first round. In a wild exchange of punches, Miado clipped Amnuaysirichoke with a thunderous right cross, sending the Thai hometown hero crashing to the canvas as the referee waved off the contest immediately.

Shannon “OneShin” Wiratchai of Thailand authored one of the most dominant performances of the night, reinserting his name into the winner’s column with a quick knockout victory over Singapore-based Indian martial artist Rahul Raju. Wiratchai only needed 21 seconds to shut the lights out on Raju, landing a hard right hook to clinch the scintillating knockout. With his impressive conquest of Raju, Wiratchai earned the GoDaddy Knockout of the Night.

In a clash of talented female atomweights, Angelie Sabanal of the Philippines captured a hard-earned victory, routing Thai rising star Rika Ishige via unanimous decision in her ONE Championship debut. Sabanal and Ishige kept the action focused primarily at the center of the ONE Championship cage for the majority of the bout. The Filipina newcomer showcased her pinpoint accurate striking early on, peppering Ishige with stinging kicks and stiff punches. Although Ishige boldly traded strikes with the Filipina kickboxer from bell to bell, the latter pulled away in the final round, landing the more telling blows. In the end, Sabanal earned the undivided nod from the three judges at cageside.

23-year-old Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev reignited his meteoric rise through the ranks, defeating seasoned Japanese veteran Tetsuya Yamada by submission. Both men started out aggressively, but it was Arslanaliev who showed a more capable set of both striking and grappling skills throughout the three-round lightweight match. As Yamada avoided trading strikes in the stand-up, Arslanaliev spun a web of crafty grappling on the ground to overwhelm the Japanese veteran. Driven to score a finish, Arslanaliev was able to get the submission in the third round, making Yamada tap from a wrenching belly-down armbar.

Pakistani martial artist Waqar Umar made an astounding statement in his return to the ONE Championship cage after nearly two years of absence, submitting Chinese prospect Zhao Zhi Kang in the first round of their featherweight clash. With a game plan to take matters to the ground, Umar got the job done by fastening a rear-naked choke to force the tap from Zhao.

American submission wizard Garry “The Lion Killer” Tonon impressed in his highly-anticipated ONE Championship debut, toppling Filipino lightweight Richard Corminal in his maiden assignment wearing four-ounce gloves on the premier martial arts stage. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu superstar put forth a dominant striking performance, unveiling a new dimension to his evolving skill set by putting together dynamic combinations. In an offensive clinic against his Filipino counterpart, Tonon overwhelmed Corminal with punishing strikes from the get-go, blasting his opponent with rocking right hands and cracking kicks. In the second round, Tonon took matters to the ground and quickly got mount, finishing Corminal with a pair of elbows.

Kritsada “Dream Man” Kongsrichai made quick work of the Philippines’ Robin Catalan to continue his winning ways inside the ONE Championship cage. Opening up the contest by taking the action right to Catalan, Kongsrichai pounced on his Filipino opponent with a series of powerful strikes, including solid knees from the clinch. As he pushed Catalan constantly back up against the cage, Kongsrichai wrapped his arms around his foe’s midsection and took him for a ride with a belly-to-back suplex. Catalan was deemed unable to continue when he landed on the mat, forcing the referee to wave it off and declare Kongsrichai as the victor by way of stoppage.

Multiple-time kickboxing world champion Alain “The Panther” Ngalani placed himself back on the winning track by edging out promotional newcomer Ariunbold Tur-Ochir of Mongolia via split decision. Both men gave fans a spirited effort over three rounds, which featured a healthy stream of action from both corners. After a gruelling contest, it was Ngalani who walked out with his hand raised in triumph.

Gilberto Galvao of Brazil spoiled the much-awaited return of Jake Butler to competition, defeating the decorated American wrestler by technical knockout in the second round. Galvao finished the job in the opening sequence of the contest’s second frame, checking a low kick from Butler with a hard knee. As Butler dropped to the canvas, he held onto his leg and hit the ground writhing in pain, the referee stepped in and called a halt to the bout, awarding the victory to Galvao.

A three-round bantamweight encounter served as the curtain-raiser for ONE: IRON WILL as “The Terminator” Sunoto battled it out with Malaysian standout Hisyam Samsudin. Leaning on his impeccable grappling, Sunoto burned out his opponent, consistently bringing Samsudin to the canvas and controlling the action with crisp ground strikes. With a dominant top game, Sunoto notched his second consecutive victory in 2018, defeating Samsudin as all three judges saw the bout in favor of the Indonesian to win by unanimous decision.

Official results for ONE: IRON WILL

ONE Bantamweight World Championship bout: Bibiano Fernandes defeats Martin Nguyen by Split Decision (SD) after 3 rounds

Strawweight bout: Jeremy Miado defeats Dejdamrong Sor Amnuaysirichoke by Knockout (KO) at 1:29 minutes of round 1

Lightweight bout: Shannon Wiratchai defeats Rahul Raju by Knockout (KO) at 0:21 minutes of round 1

Women’s atomweight bout: Angelie Sabanal defeats Rika Ishige by Unanimous Decision (UD)

Lightweight bout: Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev defeats Tetsuya Yamada by Submission (Armbar) at 2:51 minutes of round 3

Featherweight bout: Waqar Umar defeats Zhao Zhi Kang by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 4:21 minutes of round 1

Lightweight bout: Garry Tonon defeats Richard Corminal by TKO (Strikes) at 3:40 minutes of round 2

Strawweight bout: Kritsada Kongsrichai defeats Robin Catalan by TKO (Slam) at 1:40 minutes of round 1

Light Heavyweight bout: Alain Ngalani defeats Ariunbold Tur-Ochir by Split Decision (SD) after 3 rounds

Middleweight bout: Gilberto Galvao defeats Jake Butler by TKO (Strikes) at 0:07 minutes of round 2

Bantamweight bout: Sunoto defeats Hisyam Samsudin by Unanimous Decision (UD) after 3 rounds

In case you missed the action log on to www.onefc.com/livestream for the full replay of the fights at only US $9.99.

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.

Philadelphia, Penn. (March 24, 2018)–King’s Promotions kicks off a busy Spring season with the promotional outfit’s presence at Sunday’s Briscoe Awards.

King’s Promotions fighters captured the two most coveted awards as Tyrone Brunson will take home the 2017 Fighter of the Year, while Brunson’s memorable battle with Kermit Cintron will be honored as the 2017 Fight of the Year.

The awards are just a prelude to April 6th. That is when rising super middleweight Brandon Robinson takes on Oscar Riojas in the main event of a stacked night of boxing at the 2300 Arena.

Just a week later, on April 13th, Frank De Alba battles O’Shaquie Foster in the main event of a loaded card at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

“I am very proud of Tyrone for winning the Fighter of the Year. Also his bout with Kermit is a classic fight, and I am thrilled that King’s Promotions played a part in the two biggest awards on Sunday,” said King’s Promotions CEO Marshall Kauffman. “This is just the beginning of a terrific three week stretch for us as we have two excellent cards in April with competitive and entertaining bouts from top to bottom.”

Leonard Ellerbe
Hello, everyone. Thank you for joining our call today. We’re very excited. What a great card we have come April the 7th from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. In the main event, we have Erislandy Lara versus Jarrett Hurd in an outstanding unification fight which will determine supremacy at the 154-weight class.

In the co-main event, we have a great rematch of a fight that saw Caleb Truax wrestle the IBF Super Middleweight Championship away from James DeGale. That’s going to be a terrific fight also.

In the opening bout, we have Julian Williams taking on Nathaniel Gallimore in what will be a very, very entertaining fight as an IBF Junior Middleweight Elimination Bout.

Our card is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions. Tickets are still on sale at AXS.com and it starts as cheap as $50. Again, this will be a terrific card led by none other than – I’m going to introduce the man who’s totally responsible for putting all this together, none other than Stephen Espinoza.

Stephen Espinoza
Thanks, Leonard. Well, the hits keep coming here at SHOWTIME, coming off of a huge March schedule highlighted by the two big time heavyweight title fights. April on SHOWTIME will feature two stellar cards from Mayweather Promotions.

The first on April 7 is a high-quality tripleheader, three competitively matched fights with world title implications and our main event, Lara versus Hurd, a unification fight, featuring two of the top three consensus in the world at 154 pounds. Sort of the natural evolution of what has been an unofficial super welterweight tournament over the last year, year and a half on SHOWTIME.

In 2017, SHOWTIME televised eight matchups featuring all of the top five ranked super welterweight champions and challengers in that unofficial tournament. Now we get the natural results of that, a unification fight which happens to be only the sixth unification fight in the history of the 154-pound division.

Erislandy Lara, he’s the WBA champ, the longest reigning champion at 154 pounds. He won the WBA title on SHOWTIME in 2014 and he’s now making his sixth defense. With a record of 25-2-2, he could easily make the case that he could be undefeated certainly. The loss to Paul Williams was very controversial and a very close split decision loss to Canelo. So we very well could have an undefeated fighter.

Jarrett Hurd is the IBF champion. He made the first defense of his title on SHOWTIME in October. He has scored seven consecutive KOs as his level of bout position has dramatically increased and, in fact, he really has burst on the scene lately. His first televised fight was on SHOBOX in 2015, a KO of Frank Galarza, and he’s been on a roll ever since.

This fight, this main event, Lara versus Hurd, is one of five matchups of top five contenders, top five ranked fighters, on the SHOWTIME schedule just in the first half of this year. So we look forward to a great fight, a great card on April 7th.

L. Ellerbe
Thank you, Stephen. I would like to introduce the IBF world champion. What an outstanding young fighter. He’s from my hometown. He lives and trains out of Accokeek, Maryland. Always in exciting fights and we expect nothing different come April the 7th. He’s undefeated with a record of 21-0, with 15 KOs. He’s coming off of career-defining TKO victory over Austin Trout. Ladies and gentlemen, the IBF Junior Middleweight Champion, “Swift” Jarrett Hurd.

Jarrett Hurd
Training is going well. We’re getting prepared. This is a fight that I wanted just as bad as any and I’m glad we can make it happen. I just can’t wait to put on a show.

L. Ellerbe
Great. Okay. Next up, we have Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara with a record of 25 and 2 with 14 KOs. And again, as Stephen mentioned earlier, Lara is the longest reigning champion at 154. A tremendous boxer, real slick, real smooth. He’s been in there with all the top guys in the weight class and again, he’ll be looking to put on another great performance come April the 7th. So, ladies and gentlemen, Erislandy Lara.

Erislandy Lara
First I want to thank everyone on the call. Most importantly, I’d like to thank SHOWTIME for putting on a great fight, thank Mayweather Promotions, TGB Promotions and my whole team. Come April 7, I’ll be ready to fight and ready to put on a show.

Q
For Stephen, I’m just wondering if you could give your thought process as to what made you decide to make a matchup between Erislandy Lara and Hurd as opposed to either of those guys against Charlo.

S. Espinoza
I think it was really the style matchup. When we sat down and looked at them, they’re three exciting fighters, three great champions, but the matchup that was really intriguing because of the styles was Lara versus Hurd.

Erislandy has never shied away from any challenge. Jarrett was very vocal about wanting to unify. And the combination of their styles, where they are in their careers, it seemed like an intriguing matchup.

Q
Do you believe that the winner of the fight would then look to fight Charlo?

S. Espinoza
Absolutely. And Jermell is game. He’s on board. He’s on board for it. He was recently on SHOWTIME and he indicated he wants the winner. He wants the winner next.

Q
Jarrett, what was it about this matchup that made you want it more?

J. Hurd
Well, I knew both fights will eventually happen. But I feel like the fight with Erislandy Lara will give me more credibility and will put me in position at number one. I wanted to be top guy in my division and now I feel like I am the top guy in my division.

This fight, I want it over the fight with Jermell Charlo, even though the fight with Jermell Charlo is more anticipated and people want – maybe because of our styles, but I wanted this fight because I feel like it will put me to better position in the 154 division.

Q
Do you feel like at 27 years old you’re now in your prime and that basically whether it’s Erislandy Lara, or anybody else in the weight class that Jarrett Hurd’s punching power can take care of them?

J. Hurd
I feel like my power – I have the power that’s deceptive and it doesn’t look as hard on TV or while you’re in there until you feel it. It’s a total different story.

I feel like my power can stop anyone, put anyone down. But on April 7th, the knockout streak, I’ll stop another guy and I plan on continuing to keep doing.

Q
Are you ready for a much different kind of style in an experienced fighter like Lara? How do you deal with that kind of skill?

J. Hurd
Lara, he’s been the longest reigning champion at 154. I’ve been fighting at 154 all my life, so we’ve been watching him since I turned professional and the style Lara presents we’ve been training for this long before this training camp. He’s a great champion but Lara has always been on top and we always study and the game plan we got is perfect and this is why we wanted the fight. It’s no secret how badly I wanted this fight.

Of course, I’m not going to stay in there and try to box with Lara because Lara is an expert on what he does. Lara is not going to stand there toe-to-toe with me because of my size, inside game and my power. So it’s going to be a cat and mouse game and I just can’t wait to show you guys that outcome.

Q
I wonder if Lara could give me his perspective on where he thinks Jarrett Hurd falls in the weight class and whether or not he feels like he is going to have to outbox him or maybe he can mix it up with him a bit.

E. Lara
I’m ready to go for April 7th. Jarrett Hurd, as everyone knows, he’s a big, strong fighter, but pretty basic. He can try to fight, kind of like a Mexican strong style and those are styles that I’d like to fight.

So come April 7th, we hope he’s prepared. I’m prepared and want to put on a great fight for the fans and for the writers and for everyone else.

Q
Was this a fight that Erislandy wanted or would he have preferred a Charlo unification?

E. Lara
As everyone knows, I was the one who wanted this fight. He won his title in February, I wanted to fight him in October and his team said he wasn’t ready to fight me in October. They wanted him to be prepared to fight another southpaw and prepare for me.

So, as the pressure mounted, Jarrett Hurd decided just to fight. So I’m happy he stepped up to the plate but as everyone knows, I want his belt and I want the other belts in this division as well.

Q
Jarrett, how do you feel Erislandy compares to Trout in the sense of how much better he might be and how much of a step-up in competition it is for you?

J. Hurd
I feel like Lara has a little bit better foot movement than Trout. And one thing about Trout, he took chances in my fight. He stayed there with me. I don’t think Lara is going to take that many chances. He’s a very disciplined fighter.

So whatever works for him, he’s going to stick to exactly what he’s working for. He’s never going to change it no matter how hot on the scorecard he is or not, he’s going to stick to his game plan and I think he’s much more disciplined and a little sharper than Trout.

Q
How much do you feel that it helped you to fight Trout to get ready for this fight?

J. Hurd
It definitely helped me, not only to fight Trout, but just going to two training camps with southpaws. I only fought three southpaws in my career before Trout. So now I have a lot of experience with them. So going into this fight I wanted to kind of go into two or three camps before I face Lara and I think it helped me.

Q
Erislandy said that you fight like a Mexican. How much of a compliment do you take that as?

J. Hurd
Mexicans are fighters, man. I take it as a compliment. When you describe a Mexican fighter, you stay toe-to-toe and that’s what the fans like to see. Of course, that’s not my only style. Everyone sees I can switch it up with my fight with Frank Galarza back in Las Vegas and it all depends on what I have to bring out that night. I can do it all.

Q
Erislandy, what do you think of how Hurd fought in the Trout fight?

E. Lara
I watched the Trout fight in the locker room and as I was preparing for my fight, so I couldn’t watch that carefully but from what I saw in the fight, I thought Trout was winning the fight and as the fight wore on, obviously, Trout’s legs weren’t there and he hadn’t fought in 17 months and he’s also a fighter who’s on the back-end of his career, and had lost already several times.

But I thought Trout was actually doing a good job in the fight and, like I said, Hurd is a guy who likes to take it up a notch after six, seven rounds and I like to take it up a notch or two after six, seven rounds. So, this is going to be a great fight. And come April 7, I’m just ready to rumble.

Q
Based on what you just said, do you feel that maybe too much has been made of the Trout win?

E. Lara
People are going to have their take on the Trout fight but, there is no fighter at 154 or 160 or anywhere around this weight division that has my style and my boxing ability and my smarts, and that’s the reason I’ve made it this far.

Trout was out 17 months. He is an older guy. He’s been defeated several times and he is a former world champ but he’s also had a loser mentality.

It’s a lot different when you’re fighting a winner and you’re fighting the guy who also dominated Trout and put him on the deck and let him off the hook in the 12th. It’s an exciting fight and we’re excited to put on a great fight.

Q
How important is it for you, if you’re able to beat Jarrett Hurd, that you go and fight Jermell Charlo and you in effect clean out the 154-pound division?

E. Lara
I said it before and I’m going to say it again. I’m going to clean out the division and that has been my plan from the beginning and I’m going to stick to my plan. I don’t care who the champions are. I don’t care what their names are or where they’re from. I’m going to clean up the division and it starts April 7.

Q
Do you view Hurd as a tougher fight than Charlo or vice versa?

E. Lara
I don’t look at them any different. They’re both to me kind of the same fighter. They both come up to the ring with a purpose and they’re trying to win. But at the end of the day, I’m the best fighter in this division. It’s been proven over years. So whether it was Hurd first, Charlo first, it didn’t matter. I’m just ready to rumble.

L. Ellerbe
I would also like to touch on that. With all due respect to Trout, Jarrett Hurd ain’t Austin Trout. I mean, this kid is the real deal. I try to look back in the history of this particular division and I can’t think of a fighter who was as big and physical and applies the kind of pressure — especially mental pressure — that he puts on guys in a very, very long time. This is going to be a tremendous fight, an excellent matchup, contrasting styles and I’m really, really excited to see this bout.

Q
You said before in the past that you start off slow in your fights on purpose even to the point of taking a blow or two from your opponent. What’s your thinking behind strategy like that?

J. Hurd
I’m just feeling my opponent out. You don’t want to go out there and not know what he’s capable of. So you just don’t want to go out there and take that many chances without seeing what the guy’s got. So, I just use the first round to see what he has and take it from there, make the adjustments.

Q
Do you think people recognize your size and your power? Do they underestimate your ability to fight inside?

J. Hurd
A hundred percent. I don’t think now, but I think they did before. Me being a taller, longer, rangier guy they expect me to be on the outside and I know I surprised a lot of people when I start to fight inside, that close. I watched a lot of James Toney. So that’s where I kind of get it from.

Q
Stephen, you said this fight was chosen and put together based on the styles of these fighters. Is it that you recognized the last four opponents that Hurd’s faced were two orthodox fighters and also two southpaw fighters that he put on a great performance against?

S. Espinoza
Well, it was more looking for an entertaining fight. It’s sort of the classic matador-and-bull type of fight. You’ve got a really aggressive hard-punching, young, strong champion and you’ve got, another champion who’s known as one of the most skilled fighters in any division. So it’s sort of the unstoppable force immovable object coming together; which style is going to win out?

So it really wasn’t as much looking at past opponents as it was, what might be the most exciting fight. And not to say that Jermell isn’t an exciting fighter, too, because, that is definitely something that’s very, very possible in the near future.

So it was just, which one could come first, which one would come next, and I think the clash of styles is what attracted us to this matchup first.

L. Ellerbe
Sometimes when people referred to Lara, they just mostly speak about his boxing skill. But Lara can also crack, too. So those out there who sleep on Lara’s power are sadly mistaken. I’ve sat ringside, first row a couple of his fights and especially the Canelo fight and I’ve seen firsthand what his power looks like. And if anybody’s sleeping on his power, they are sadly mistaken.

Q
Jarrett do you think those recent fights are the fights that prepared you going into this fight against Lara?

J. Hurd
Yes, I feel more though that my career period has prepared me for this fight. I didn’t come up the easy route. So I didn’t have a big amateur career. A lot of people didn’t want to give me a chance. I had to go out there and take them. My performances I put on when I got the opportunity each and every time on TV, I went out there and did what I was supposed to.

So, I feel like just my career, period, and all I’ve been through prepared me for this fight, not just those fights on TV, but those little fights.

Q
You say that you want to go ahead and walk opponents down and try to get rid of them, put the more pressure on. Is that the case?

Jarrett Hurd:
It depends. Like during the Austin Trout fight. He did lack a little power, so I was willing to take some to get some in. I was willing to take some chances but, it all depends on, like you said, if they all lack a little power. Are you willing to take those chances?

Like my fight with Oscar Molina, he can crack a little more than Tony Harrison, so I was kind of a little more head movement and little less willing to go into there without being cautious.

It all depends. But like I said man it’s crazy because people define me by my last two fights as that’s my style. I was the guy that always was the kind of puncher and fought from his back foot until guys started to compare me and look at my size. I didn’t even realize I was that big of a fighter until I got on the stage with some of these guys. So my last two fights are the only fights that I have fought that way in my career, coming forward and then pressure, because I knew eventually I would have to come into a fight with a guy like Lara. We’ve been working on it, but I could switch it up. I can do whatever. It all depends on my opponent that night and y’all just going to have to wait and see.

Q
Erislandy, are there any concerns about him getting stronger as the fight goes on and also how he’s able to take punches from people and actually take their power?

E. Lara
I keep seeing people refer to his height or how big he is, but Williams was taller and bigger than him. Canelo was and is stronger than him, and they couldn’t deal with me.

So I’m not worried about what he has to bring today. I’m worried about what I have to do in that ring. I’m focused. I’m ready, and there’s no question in my mind I know I can knock him out. If he gets reckless, he’s going to get knocked down. And if not, then he’s going to get beat up.

He’s going to have to make that decision on April 7 whether he’s willing to go through the fire or if he’s just willing just to lose a decision. It’s up to him. He’s going to have to decide that on April 7.

Q
Do you think that those past fights have given you any kind of preparation or anything for this fight coming? Or do you feel that you’re totally different from when you fought Paul Williams and when you fought Canelo, physically?

E. Lara
I don’t look for one specific fight. I don’t look at last fight or the last four fights because my whole life, I’ve been preparing for this, since Cuba.

I didn’t have shoes until I was 5 years old. I was preparing for this. I was born to be a fighter. It was during my whole amateur career, 350 plus amateur fights, several world championships across the amateurs. Now my whole pro-career, I fought the top guys, I’ve beat the top guys, and that’s what’s prepared me for this fight and prepared me to fight whoever is available in the division.

So I’m ready to go and I’m ready to fight.

Q
Leonard, with Mayweather Promotions, are you guys planning to put more and more fights together, not just with your own fighters but working with SHOWTIME to put on just top-quality fights, period?

L. Ellerbe
We’re very excited to promote all these big events, working along with SHOWTIME and expect to see more of it in the next couple of months.

We’ve outlined our next few big events that we have and expect more of that in the fall of this year. All we’re looking to do is put on the biggest and best events and make them for the fans.

Q
What is Erislandy’s take on sometimes people not appreciating the sweet science and his boxing ability?

E. Lara
This is a sport. Boxing is hit and don’t get hit. That’s the way it was taught from the beginning of time. It’s a sweet science and all fights are different. Styles are different. Styles obviously make fights.

Some guys are willing to take more risk than others and that sometimes dictates the action in a fight. My main focus is to win every fight and win clearly. That’s my job.

Q
Erislandy are you the only fighter in the division that could put Jermell Charlo in his place?

E. Lara
One hundred percent yes. And from my experiences of hundreds of rounds of sparring, Jermell Charlo won’t fight Erislandy Lara next when we get done with Hurd. Only time will tell.

Q
Jarrett, do you see any weakness in Erislandy Lara?

J. Hurd
Well you all will have to see that on fight night. Not to give away too much of the game plan, but, like I said, Lara’s toughest fights are when guys put pressure on him. And that’s what we’re going to do.

Q
Leonard, you talked about Jarrett’s versatility and how you’ve done some research on this weight class and his size. But in your time, have you seen a guy with his relative inexperience to someone like Lara expressing the confidence that he has done and also just rising so quickly against quality opposition like this?

L. Ellerbe
No, I think it’s a tremendous asset. Confidence is everything in this sport. He has a strong belief in his skill set and his ability to go out there and get it done.

Obviously, this is the biggest and toughest challenge to date with Lara being a great champion who has fought on the big stage and has fought a number of great fighters. But again, those contrasting styles and Jarrett having the ability and the confidence to bring that to the table I think is going to make a big, big difference.

Because it’s one thing with sitting on the outside and watching guys fight on TV, but it’s a whole different ballgame when you got a light heavyweight walking you down and putting that kind of mental pressure on you. But Lara’s built for this kind of thing because he’s seen any and every kind of style out there.

So these are the reasons why I think it’s a great, great matchup because again, I think that Jarrett is going to bring out the best in Lara and I think vice-versa, Lara is going to bring the best out in Jarrett. Period.

When it comes to Lara, we’ve seen him on the big stage before. He’s a tremendous boxer. He’s actually, in my eyes, the best boxer that’s out there. Tremendous foot movement, head movement, coming from that great Cuban school of boxing, he’s a real deal.

But again, you got this young, tough, hungry lion that had the mindset that he doesn’t care what Lara has done in the past because Lara has never fought nobody like Jarrett Hurd, and vice-versa.

That’s what makes this an intriguing matchup. Come April 7, I expect this fight probably might end in a knockout.

Q
What is your assessment of Jarrett Hurd compared to the guys you faced in your career?

E. Lara
I don’t compare fighters. I look at him as a young, hungry kid who’s got desire. He wants to be great. He’s going to come forward and he’s going to come ready to fight. If he doesn’t come forward, then I’ll be ready to fight, too, however it plays out. But I’m ready for everything he brings to the table.

Q
When was the last time, Erislandy, that someone outright predicted that they were going to knock you out as he has done?

E. Lara
Every fighter wants to knock you out when you get in that ring. Paul Williams wanted to knock me out. Canelo, Vanes, plus he keeps mentioning how it’s going to be Angulo and this and that.

Well, Angulo connected on me twice, but don’t forget how that fight finished. I ended Angulo’s career. I ruined his career and I put him out of the top level of boxing.

If Jarrett Hurd thinks he’s going to come like that, I’m going to end his career too, at 27 years old. So come April 7, I’m hoping he puts that pressure so I could ruin his career for all the talking that he’s been doing.

Q
Jarrett? What did you think of what he just said?

J. Hurd
I mean, here’s the thing, we all know that Lara has the experience. He’s seen every style from right-handed to the southpaw. Anything you give him, he’s seen it all. But he has not experienced what I’m about to give him.

It’s not about the styles that you’ve seen; it’s about what you’re about to experience. So this is a whole different ballgame. You get in there to fight with Jarrett Hurd and you’ll see how that all ends.

I speak from the heart and I say what I feel. I’m not just out here talking just to talk. I’m putting in the work. Where my chance is going and where I see this fight playing out, there’s no way that Lara is going to come out of top.

Q
What makes you different from Angulo? And also, does it give you a little bit of an edge that he is a little bit older now than he was then?

J. Hurd
No, we never play that old card. You’ve seen Lara’s performances. He’s still in great shape. Age is not factor. I hate guys saying the same thing with Austin Trout. They say age is starting to show.

We’re not going to play the age card. We see that Lara is still a great fighter. He’s the longest reigning champion for a reason and age shouldn’t play a part.

As far as the past Angulo thing, nothing to take away from Angulo. He’s a great fighter, he’s done great things, but I’m much faster than Angulo, much sharp than Angulo, hit harder than Angulo and I’m a much bigger guy.

So physically, when I’m in there, on him in the ring, he’s going to feel it. He couldn’t take the pressure and the style from Angulo. He’s going to be in long night when he fights me.

L. Ellerbe
Okay. Ladies and gentlemen, you’ve heard from both fighters. Again, we have a tremendous lineup, great tripleheader live on SHOWTIME, April the 7th, 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Lara versus Hurd, Truax versus DeGale, Julian Williams versus Nathaniel Gallimore. What a tremendous tripleheader, live on SHOWTIME.

We want to thank everyone for joining us on the call. Have a wonderful day.

# # #

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

Dillian Whyte has got to the top of the bill the hard way – and he has no intention of letting Lucas Browne derail his path to World title glory as they clash at The O2 tomorrow night, live on Sky Sports.

Whyte defends the WBC Silver Heavyweight title he won against a defensive Robert Helenius in Cardiff in October, landing the number one spot in the WBC into the bargain.

The ‘Body Snatcher’s’ admits boxing saved his life from a life of crime and gave him a second chance, but that was taken from him for two years 2012 following a failed drugs test. Whyte has battled to get back on track and now only Browne stands in his way to punching his ticket to the top table.

“It means a lot to headline The O2,” said Whyte, who scaled 18st 2lbs 2oz, nine pounds lighter than the challenger. “Topping the bills as a star is what I’ve been working for. Nothing good comes easy. Boxing is a hard sport to make a living from and it gets even harder to stay at the top when you get there. I am well aware of that, but I’m a tough man and I don’t give up easily.

“I’ve done it the hard way, built myself up and battled to get to where I am through a lot of setbacks. My rage and anger got me to a certain point in the sport and then I had the accident. I’m a realist and an analyst, I took myself away and I realised I had to become more professional and get good people around me and I made the transition, that’s what is here now and there’s still more to come, but I am getting there.

“You have to be yourself, if you are and you believe in yourself and what you say, you aren’t going to do wrong things, you just have to be honest and real, that’s all a man can do.

“Sky Sports and Matchroom are now right behind me so this is my time to shine. I should be mandatory challenger in maybe two or three governing bodies because I’m highly ranked in all of them and Lucas is a good name to have a win over.”

Whyte’s meeting with Browne tops a huge night at The O2 with a pair of great British title clashes as Frank Buglioni defends his Light-Heavyweight title against Commonwealth champion Callum Johnson and Lewis Ritson puts his Lightweight title up for grabs against former champion Scotty Cardle.

Tickets for Whyte vs. Browne at The O2 in London are on sale now priced £40, £60 and £100 from www.theO2.co.uk. VIP tickets priced £200 are exclusively available from www.matchroomboxing.com

Face value tickets for March 24 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.

RUNNING ORDER AND WEIGHTS

Doors Open – 17:00

4 x 3 mins Featherweight contest

LOUIE LYNN 9st 6oz v MICHAEL HOROBIN 9st 6oz

(London) (London)

4 x 3 mins Cruiserweight contest

RICHARD RIAKPORHE 14st 1lb 3oz v ADAM WILLIAMS 14st 3lbs 2oz

(Walworth) (Manchester)

6 x 3 mins Light-Heavyweight contest

CRAIG RICHARDS 12st 7lbs 7oz v IVAN STUPALO 12st 5lbs 6oz

(Crystal Palace). (Croatia)

6 x 3 mins Super-Middleweight contest

JAMIE COX 12st 4lbs 5oz v HARRY MATTHEWS 12st 5lbs 6oz

(Swindon) (York)

LIVE ON SKY SPORTS FROM 7PM

8 x 3 mins Heavyweight contest

DERECK CHISORA 17st 12lbs 5oz v ZAKARIA AZZOUZI 17st 7lbs 2oz

(Finchley) (France)

Followed by

6 x 3 mins Super-Welterweight contest @ 11st 2lbs

ANTHONY FOWLER v KALILOU DEMBELE

(Liverpool) (France)

Followed by

12 x 3 mins British Lightweight Championship

LEWIS RITSON 9st 9lbs v SCOTT CARDLE 9st 7lbs 9oz

(Forest Hall) (Lytham)

Followed by

12 x 3 mins British and Commonwealth Light-Heavyweight Championship

FRANK BUGLIONI 12st 6lbs 3oz v CALLUM JOHNSON 12st 6lbs 7oz

(Winchmore Hill) (Boston)

Followed by

12 x 3 mins WBC Silver Heavyweight Championship

DILLIAN WHYTE 18st 2lbs 2oz v LUCAS BROWNE 18st 11lbs 2oz

(Brixton) (Australia)

LIVE FLOAT

6 x 3 mins Welterweight contest

CHRIS KONGO 10st 8lbs 9oz v SERGE AMBOMO 10st 6lbs 2oz

(Bermondsey) (Sheffield)

Billy Joe Saunders has insisted that despite his eagerness to unify with Gennady Golovkin, he will not be treated as a back-up plan.

On May 5th, Canelo Alvarez and Golovkin are scheduled to face each other in a rematch of their first meeting that ended in a controversial draw.

Canelo recently tested positive for the banned drug clenbuterol in drug tests conducted by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA).

If the highly-anticipated rematch does not go ahead, Golovkin’s trainer Abel Sanchez has hinted that Golovkin would “go a different way” and target a fight with undefeated WBO Champion Saunders.

Despite Sanchez claiming that Saunders would be “chomping at the bit” to face Golovkin as a ‘plan B’, the Hatfield man has reiterated that if the Middleweight foes meet in the ring, it will be on his terms.

“First of all me and Frank signed a contract to fight Golovkin before and they were the ones that pulled out, not me,” said Saunders. “I’m no back-up plan or plan B to anyone, I’m a World Champion and I believe that I’m the best in the division.

“If anything, Golovkin is my back-up plan. He is only saying this now because he is worried about getting beat by Canelo. He thinks that if he loses he’s going to fight again straight away for my belt.

“If he gets beat and comes to me without his belts then obviously I’m the A side and he’s the B side. If he comes to me with his belts then most definitely I’ll look forward to fighting him but he’s got Canelo to worry about first.

“Him and his trainer can talk as much crap as they want but when it comes down to it I’m ready to do the walking as well as the talking – and I’ve proved that before. For now all of my focus is on beating Martin Murray on Saturday 23rd June.”

Tickets for Saunders v Murray priced from £40 (Tier) to £300 (Hospitality) are available to purchase via www.axs.com.

New York City (March 23, 2018) Evander Holyfield’s The Real Deal Boxing has announced an outstanding card for their return to the historic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, NY on Saturday April 21, 2018.

Advance tickets for ‘Real Deal, Showcase Series III’, presented in association with World of Boxing and Uprising Promotions, priced at $150, $125, $75 and $50 are now on sale online through the Kings Theatre website, www.KingsTheatre.com.

“We’re thrilled to return to Kings Theatre so quickly after our successful opening night on March 10,” said Holyfield. “It’s a beautiful venue and we’re very excited to return and showcase our fighters in Brooklyn on April 21.”

Stated Andrey Ryabinsky of World of Boxing, “We are happy with the way that our cooperation is progressing with The Real Deal Boxing and Mr. Evander Holyfield. We had a great first event that we put together on March 10th and look forward to taking the next step with another event at King’s Theater on April 21st.”

Headlining the event, Josue ‘The Prodigy’ Vargas, (10-1-0, 6 KO’s), of Bronx via Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, makes a quick return to battle following his sensational fifth-round stoppage of Zach Ramsey on March 10 at the Kings Theatre.

The 19-year-old Vargas, now on a four-bout winning streak (his only loss was by a controversial disqualification), will face off against Yonkers, NY native Victor Vazquez, (10-3-0, 4 KO’s) in an eight round junior welterweight bout.

Vazquez will be looking to add to his three-bout winning streak as the 22-year-old impressively knocked out David Gonzales in the first round on March 2, 2018, in Philadelphia, PA. Vazquez is signed to Marshall Kauffman’s Kings Promotions.

Co-featured is the triumphant return of undefeated Bronx welterweight Peter Dobson, (9-0-0, 5 KO’s), in an eight-round clash with Brooklyn’s Martin Wright, (11-2-2, 5 KO’s).

Making his first start of 2018, Dobson returns to battle following the most impressive win of his three-plus years as a professional. On June 24, 2017, Dobson scored an eight-round decision over then undefeated Jeremy Nichols in Louisville, KY.

The battle-tested and upset minded Wright looks to return to the win column following a hotly contested eight round decision loss to undefeated David Grayton on October 17, 2015 in Fairfax, Virginia. Prior to the loss Wright was riding a three-bout winning streak in New York City area-based fights.

In a special attraction eight round bantamweight clash, undefeated Duke ‘The Baby-Faced Terminator’ Micah, (21-0-0, 18 KO’s), of Accra, Ghana, will battle veteran Frenchman Yoan Boyeaux, (41-5-0, 26 KO’s).

Making his long awaited United States debut, the 26-year-old Micah looked outstanding in a 10-round decision victory over Jose Santos Gonzalez on November 18, 2017 in Queens, NY. The victory was the first defense of his newly earned WBC International Bantamweight Title.

Fighting all over the world, Boyeaux was undefeated over a six-year span prior to his most recent fight, a loss to WBO Super Flyweight World Champion Naoya Inoue on December 30, 2017 in Yokohama, Japan. This will be the first time Boyeaux has fought in the United States.

Also on the card will be local favorites and The Real Deal Boxing prospects Justin Biggs (3-0-0, 3 KO’s) and Mathew Gonzalez (4-0-0, 3 KO’s), as well as Mexican-American phenom Oscar Moreno (5-0-0, 5 KO’s).

Special-feature bouts will include the return of 2016 Olympians from Uzbekistan, Shakhram Giyasov (1-0-0, 1 KO) and Murodjon Akhmadaliev (1-0-0, 1 KO) as well as Batyr Ahmedov (3-0-0, 2 KO’s), all signed to manager Vadim Kornilov and promoted by World of Boxing.

“We’ve also signed a number of Puerto Rican fighters from the local area and are planning a tremendous event on Saturday, June 9 to host National Puerto Rican Day,” said an elated Holyfield.

Further details on the National Puerto Rican Day event on June 9 will be also be announced in the coming weeks, but it is expected to feature the highly anticipated return of super middleweight knockout artist Edgar ‘The Chosen One’ Berlanga (7-0-0, 7 KO’s) and The Real Deal Boxing debut of newly-signed, hard-hitting undefeated featherweight Carlos ‘Pote’ Vidal, (11-0-0, 10 KO’s) plus much more.

Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is proud to partner with Medical Arts Radiology (www.medicalartsradiology.com) and Venum (www.venum.com).

SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook: @TheRealDealPromotions, @KingsTheatreBklyn

Twitter: @TheRealDealBox, @Holyfield, @KingsBklyn

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Website: www.TheRealDealBoxing.com, www.KingsTheatre.com

Saturday’s HBO Boxing After Dark® telecast begins at 6:00 p.m. ET/PT with a same-day replay at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Live from the O2 in London is a 12-round heavyweight showdown matching Britain’s Dillian Whyte against Lucas Browne of Australia.

Official Weights from London:

Dillian Whyte: 254.2 lbs.

Lucas Browne: 264.5 lbs.