PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Oct. 26th, 2017) — The bombs will burst Friday, Nov. 17th, 2017 at Twin River Casino as “CES MMA” returns for its season finale highlighted by one of the hardest hitters in the northeast.

Former world-title challenger and Providence, R.I., heavyweight “Ribz” Greg Rebello (22-8, 13 KOs) aims for his unprecedented 23rd professional win at “CES MMA 47” when he battles Derrick Brown (7-4, 3 KOs) of Myrtle Beach, S.C., one of six televised bouts airing live on AXS TV.

The first preliminary bout begins at 7 p.m. ET, followed by the main card on AXS TV Fights at 9.

Nov. 17th is Rebello’s 7th appearance on AXS TV, a fan-friendly stretch of dominance with six of those fights ending with a knockout. Following an appearance on Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series in July, Rebello looks to regain his footing next month on his home turf, where he’s 9-4 lifetime, including thrilling nationally-televised wins over rival Tyler King and Keith Bell.

Tickets for “CES MMA 47” are priced at $40.00, $55.00, $100.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesboxing.com, www.twinriver.com, www.ticketmaster.com or www.cagetix.com/ces by phone at 401-724-2253/2254 or at the Twin River Casino Players Club. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

The main card also features the return of Providence featherweight and three-time Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) vet Sean Soriano (10-5, 4 KOs), red-hot Providence lightweight Nate Andrews (11-1, 5 KOs) – a winner in his last five bouts -undefeated flyweight prospect Richie Santiago (5-0, 1 KO) of Milford, Mass., and Milford bantamweight Kris Moutinho (4-1, 1 KO).

Debut flyweight Jose Lugo of Milford, who boasts a 4-1 amateur record, and Providence featherweight Jon Douma (1-0) highlight the preliminary card. Douma comes off a win in his professional debut at “CES MMA 45,” submitting Jason Rine at 4:48 of the opening round.

The main card boasts some of the region’s top talent. Andrews, who hasn’t lost since 2014, is arguably New England’s hottest fighter. Following a frustrating loss to Gemiyale Adkins, the first of his career, Andrews dusted Jay Bakanowski in just 2:50 at “CES MMA 29” and then pieced together his most impressive performance to date nine months later at “CES MMA 33,” knocking out former CES MMA World Lightweight Champion Julian Lane at the 3:58 mark of the second round.

All of Andrews’ wins have ended before the final bell, including five knockouts and six submissions. The heavy-handed Rebello has a similar knack for ending fights quickly with four of his last victories coming by way of knockout, including three in the opening round. He last won on May 12th at “CES MMA 44,” submitting the game Kevin Ray Sears in the final round of their scheduled three-round bout.

The up-and-coming Santiago, who faces Shawn Mack (0-1) of Grand Rapids, Mich., fights for the sixth time in 14 months and makes his sixth appearance with CES MMA. The rear-naked choke is his weapon of choice as the finishing in four of his five wins, including an impressive dismantling of 7-fight vet Miguel Restrepo in the second round at “CES MMA 45” in August.

Facing two-time CES MMA and former Bellator vet David Garcia (4-3, 2 KOs) of La Grange, Ill., Moutinho looks to rebound from his first career loss following a submission at the hands of Brandon Seyler at “CES MMA 45.” In his previous four bouts, Moutinho scratched and clawed his way to three unanimous decision victories and earned his first career knockout via head kick against Rine at “CES MMA 41.”

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

FLINT, MI. (October 25, 2017) – Former world champion Anthony Dirrell spoke to media in his hometown Wednesday in advance of his showdown against Denis Douglin that headlines a Premier Boxing Champions event Friday, November 17 from Dort Federal Credit Union Center in Flint, Michigan and live on FS1 and FOX Deportes.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and A.D.D. Enterprises in association with Salita Promotions, begin at $20 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets, visit the Dort Federal Credit Union Center box office or visit Ticketmaster.com.

The former super middleweight champion returns to fight in Flint for the third time as a pro and the first time since knocking out Dante Craig at Atwood Stadium in 2011.

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Wednesday for Dort Federal Credit Union Center:

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“I’m so thankful to everyone who helped make this event happen. I wanted to bring something to Flint, because of all the negativity that’s been going on here. Flint was a big city when I was growing up. I want to bring some recognition and big events like this to my city.

“It’s an honor to be fighting here again and I’m excited to showcase my talents for everyone in Flint. I’ve been wanting to do this for a long time and the moment is finally here. I will be great when the moment comes.

“I’ve been preparing for this fight. I’ve stayed in the gym and worked hard every day and I’m going to continue to do that up until this fight.

“I hope that we have a great show and we can have more events like this here. I want to give the fans in my city something to come to and enjoy themselves without worrying about anything. Come out, bring your family and just enjoy a great night of skill and talent.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“Anthony Dirrell, who was born and raised here in Flint along with his brother and top contender, Andre, will be fighting for only the third time in his hometown. It’s something that Anthony has wanted for a long time and I can guarantee that he will be at his absolute best in front of his hometown fans and family on November 17th.

“I was trying to come up with the right charity to support with this event and it was right in front of my eyes – Dirrell’s Chance Foundation – Anthony Dirrell is the founder of the Dirrell’s Chance Foundation, actively giving back to the community of Flint. Anthony is an inspiration to many and he is a true testament of never giving up, both inside and outside of the ring. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to the foundation.”

DMITRY SALITA, Salita Promotions

“Michigan is home to great world champions and some of the greatest boxers of all time. Anthony Dirrell follows in that rich history of exceptional fighters from the state of Michigan. I am grateful that we can work with TGB Promotions on a world class event in Flint, Michigan at the Dort Federal Event Center on November 17 that will be a real treat to the areas boxing fans.”

# # #

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

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

Lou DiBella
Thanks everybody for joining us for this call for the November 4 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING show live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

This card is headlined by the Heavyweight Championship of the World — the WBC Heavyweight Championship of the World — between Deontay Wilder the champion, and the mandatory challenger for his title — Bermane Stiverne.

This card is also featuring “Showtime” Shawn Porter against Adrian Granados in a fight that figures to be extremely exciting. Sergey Lipinets will fight for a World Title on the SHOWTIME portion of the card, and there will be a sensational undercard that we’ll be talking more about in the near future.

By the way, tickets are on sale at TicketMaster.com, BarclaysCenter.com, the Barclays Center Box Office, and we urge as many people as possible to show up. It’s a rare opportunity to see a World Heavyweight Championship Fight in New York City in Brooklyn.

In my mind, this is an extremely dangerous fight. He has been preparing for a career defining fight against Luis Ortiz — an unorthodox left-handed puncher — a guy that he was really mentally revved up to fight. And instead he’s winding up with a rematch of a fight against Bermane Stiverne — a guy that’s been in this kind of situation before who’s a legitimate dangerous heavyweight contender.

Frankly, in this situation, Bermane Stiverne has absolutely nothing to lose. And he must feel like this is Christmas Day. He was already preparing for a large right-handed opponent in Breazeale; he was going to be on that same card. It’s now switched over to a fight that you have to think maybe Deontay is a little bit deflated to be forced to fight. But Bermane is the mandatory contender, and that’s the fight that’s going to happen.

I know that he’s confident and I also know that he’s dangerous. And I know that it’s all upside here for Bermane Stiverne and very little pressure. So Bermane, would you say a few words please and then we’ll open it up for questions for you?

Bermane Stiverne
Well I’m happy to be on the call. I had just a perfect training camp which was an exceptional training camp. So it was just a matter of time. I have a few days left to finish up this camp.

I always thought that the fight was never going to happen with Deontay and Ortiz — if you asked me from the moment they announced the fight. The first thing I said is, “This fight is not going to happen. And I’ve got to get ready for Deontay.”

That’s exactly what I said. You can ask anybody in my camp. You can ask my manager, that’s what I told him.

L. DiBella
Deontay, you were preparing for a completely different fight. This isn’t the fight that you thought you’d be fighting.

I think with that there’s always a little better risk because you’re adjusting to a new opponent. But you want to just say a few words and tell everybody where your head is at right now?

Deontay Wilder
Well my head is in a peaceful state of mind. I still sit back now and still just analyze my career and I’ll just sit back and just think. I’m like what have I done — what have I done so wrong to get the bad of the stick with every fight that comes in.

All I ever wanted was to fight the best. When I say I am the best, that it shows not only on the record but all the way around as a person.

It just saddens me. Man, it just saddens me. It makes me reevaluate my career. It almost made me lose the love of boxing for a little bit as well too because of certain things and activities that has been known in this sport with these guys avoiding or wanting to get on bad substances when they know they’re not supposed to be taking it in the first place, .

That’s the thing about it. You take it in the first place, and you make up excuses, and then the blame is pointed at me. It’s starting to sicken me.

I don’t want to feel this way about boxing because I was once in love with it and it’s starting to make me rethink my career. Am I better out of this sport than in this sport because of this stuff that’s going on? Am I that dangerous to other fighters’ careers that they feel they have to do certain things when it comes to Deontay Wilder? I just want to be proven wrong, man. I just want to be proven wrong.

But then you have on the other hand, a man that has animosity, that have hate in his heart for me for no reason at all.

The ring is the judge and the people are the jury. And in the ring I prove my case. Outside the jury, they prove their case.

I’m so happy that I’m able to get my mandatory out of the way. It’s been almost three years and Bermane has just been focused on me instead of building his reputation; instead of building his career as a fighter.

He’s just been focused on this one man and his name is Deontay Wilder and I don’t understand it; I don’t understand it.

But at the end of the day, all fighters get what they ask for. They get what they ask for. And come November 4, he asked for it and he shall receive. We must do what we have to do. If he feels like he’s ready, then we shall see.

This time around, I don’t want no excuses. I can’t deal with the excuses no more, man. I’m tired of the excuses; I’m tired of being the blame.

I’m just ready to get this behind me and just past me and to see what’s next.

Q
How important is it to you to try to set the record straight — to take care of him like you’ve done the other 37 opponents?

D. Wilder
It plays hand-in-hand. The first time around, my heart desired the knock out. But in reality it was the best for me to be able to go 12 rounds. It was the best thing to ever happen to me in my career because even to that point, a lot of people doubted me.

A lot of people said what I couldn’t do but nobody says what I can and can’t do because they’re not me. They don’t train; they don’t bust their ass every day in the gym. Lay in the bed because you’re sore and you can’t really get a good position of sleep because your body is so sore. Only God and myself can do that.

So when Bermane was able to last 12 rounds, it was a blessing for me because I proved to so many people what I can do instead of them looking negative at me of what I can’t do.

So this time around it comes in, it makes it even better because now I can redeem myself. I showed you all what I can do. And now I’m coming back around completing what I meant to do in the first place. So it plays hand-in-hand.

Q
If you could change something — if you could be 38 and 0 with 38 knockouts instead of 37 — would you take that? If you had a vote and you could change that, would you do it?

D. Wilder
No, no, no because it’s a blessing and a curse. It’s a blessing – my record – the things I’m able to do, my power is a blessing and a curse. It’s a blessing because I know I’ve got the ability and I’m capable of doing so many great things for the history of boxing.

But it’s a curse because I’ve got so many guys that have kind of ruined my career a bit. It’s a curse to have so much power. It’s a curse to have a record like that because even the best, they get fearful of that. They get scared and frightened because they know that, damn, at this point in time this guy is very dangerous and he can end everything that I got going for myself.

And that’s what I’ve seen throughout my career. So it’s a blessing and a curse because if anybody else had my record they’d be looked on as a God.

Let’s face it. If I had their record, I’d be still be the same old me. And that’s the frustrating part about it.

Q
Given your inactivity and the age factor how can you be better in this fight?

B. Stiverne
They’re not factors to me. Those factors are for people like you and the people that’s out there.

Age is nothing but a number. I can’t say that I’m not inactive. I mean when it comes to fighting to be in the ring, you could say that. But as far as being inactive, I haven’t been inactive; I’ve been in the gym all day every day.

And the fight with Rossy, that wasn’t even a fight that I wanted to take. I just took the fight just because. The past three years since I lost the fight, there’s only one fight that I’m interested in — which is the fight that’s happening on November 4.

I determined when I fought Rossy, I was still trying to digest the loss. I might have been there physically, but mentally or psychologically, it was not really the case.

When you look at it right now all that is in the past. That was then and this is now. And like people are trying to say that my inactivity is going to hurt me or things they be saying, I don’t believe so.

You’re talking about the past and what happened in the past, it’s not something that I’m interested in. So the first fight, we all know what happened. Everybody that knows me that knows how I fight, that knows Bermane Stiverne, they know that wasn’t me.

But hey, I’m not trying to look for excuses, but what I’m telling you is this second fight is going to be a whole lot different fight. There’s going to be a whole different ending.

Q
What was the reason that there were no fights for you at all in the calendar year of 2016?

B. Stiverne
I was scheduled to fight in 2016. I got injured and I had to pull out in different fights.

I can’t remember which card it was going to be, but it was set. I was set to fight in 2016 two times. The first time I got injured, my ankle and I had to pull out. And then I came back. I got ready and I got injured again, so I had to pull out again. And that’s what happened.

I had some time to rest. I was actually in the wheelchair right before going to camp for Povetkin. I think I was in the chair for about 11 weeks. I don’t have any injuries. This fight right here has no excuses.

I’m 110% ready mentally and physically. I’m really happy that it happened the way it happened. There was just something there that I knew this was going to happen.

Q
How do you avoid a letdown going into this rematch?

D. Wilder
This is just another obstacle that I had to deal with, that I had to face. I put so much into it. Ortiz had been wanting it; he wanted this fight to happen. I never thought in a million years that he would do what he did.

No matter what they say, it was done; it was a banned substance. You can’t get around that. You all make mistakes in there because they tried to get their leverage. There are a lot of guys that are doing it though. I know each and every last one of them. There’s a lot of them doing it.

What’s the point of coming out and saying who’s doing it when at the end of the day, if you are caught doing it, what’s the punishment?

This is really nothing. When you can take care of that and get back in the ring and still be an actual contender or become a mandatory or something like that.

At the end of the day, money is money. Money comes and goes. Money comes and goes. It’s not everything. More money more problems at the end of the day.

Q
Are you going to take time to either watch the Anthony Joshua fight, pay attention to the result of the Anthony Joshua fight, and if so what are you looking for and how much is it difficult to not look past Stiverne knowing that that’s the really huge fight in the Heavyweight Division that everybody wants to see?

D. Wilder
Well, of course I’m going to look at it. I definitely look at the guys at the top of the division. Anybody say they don’t watch, then they’re lying. Of course I’m going to look and see what’s going on and see how this person did against this person, and so forth and so on.

The ultimate goal is to get Joshua. We’re not just going to be sitting up here and doing this and doing that. I don’t see what’s the difference between me and any other guy.

Joshua say he need more time; he ain’t ready. He wants to put himself in a better position. But you already fought a guy that got way more experience than I.

I don’t understand this sport when it comes to me. It feels like I’m better off not being in this sport than being in it. I don’t understand it.

All this stuff has just been a buildup for me. But I can handle it well though. I can handle it so well and I can’t wait. All this needs to be released. Unfortunately for Bermane Stiverne, come November 4th, it will be released.

I just want to prove to the world that I am the best. That’s all I want to do. That’s all I want to do.
I don’t care about who’s the A side, who’s the B side, where the fight’s going to be. I don’t care about that stuff, just me in the ring.

Q
Bermane, you said earlier in the call that you knew all along that the Wilder-Ortiz fight would not happen. Can you tell us why you felt that way?

B. Stiverne
I can’t really tell you why, but it was just something that I believed that was going to happen. Knowing Ortiz, I know Ortiz since 2004. So, he’s always been who he is right now.

So I don’t know. I mean the first thought I had when I decided they were trying to have this fight going on and I finally made the decision to just move to the side and let them have the fight. And I guarantee you, this fight ain’t gone happen. And that’s exactly what happened. If I’m lying, my manager can tell you if I’m lying.

I handpicked Dominic Breazeale. They offered me a bunch of other fighters and I told them that for this to be a deal or whatever they want to call it, I want Breazeale.

And they gave me Breazeale. But, I always told my trainer, let’s get ready for Wilder because that fight ain’t going to happen. And that’s exactly what happened.

Q
Bermane, you were saying earlier that your training camp for this fight has been different than your first training camp, when you fought Deontay the first time. Can you tell us what’s been different about it, and how it’s been better?

B. Stiverne
Just, the people that surround me. The intensity of the workouts. I feel better. Just the workouts and the people we decided to deal with. Everything is so different, man. I feel better. Obviously there’s a couple of mistakes that we made for the first fight. One thing I’m good at man, is not to repeat my mistakes.

Q
What would it mean for you to be able to become the first person to beat Deontay?

B. Stiverne
This is something I’ve always said. That I would be the first one to beat him. I would be the first one to beat him, whether he likes it or not. That’s something that will happen November 4th.

It’s satisfaction. Something that should have happened the first fight. But things happen. And that was then, and this is now. This is a different Bermane Stiverne. So, a lot of people will want to base their opinion on the first fight. Some people will be very hurt and very surprised on November 4th.

Q
How do you think it plays out in terms of your fight against Deontay being a harder fight the second time?

B. Stiverne
Well, I said that because Deontay, he been saying that he doesn’t want to fight me again because he won so easily. Or he made a statement and all that.

We all know, like I said before, anybody that knows me, knows how I fight and that night, it wasn’t me. It wasn’t me. Unfortunately, I lost the title because of my health. Not because he was better than me. And, that’s where we’re at.

I was saying the first time I fought Arreola. I tried to take him out the first fight. And we all know how Arreola’s a real fighter. True warrior. And who would want to fight him again? He was a tough task.

So, when they announced that I was going to have to fight him again that’s not something that I really wanted because of how hard the task was. But I pulled up my pants and went back to the gym and worked.

We all know what happened in the second fight. I knocked him out.

Wilder can talk about anything, all he wants, and I know it plays in the back of his head. He’s trying knock me out. It didn’t happen. It didn’t happen on my worst day. It didn’t happen when I was sick. And it sure won’t happen November 4th. That’s what I’m saying.

Q
Deontay, how do you feel about what Bermane said about being sick and that being the reason that he lost the fight?

D. Wilder
Well, I told people before the fight happened, I said, don’t make excuses. People don’t want to hear excuses. They want a winner and they want a loser. And if the person that wins, wins then it’s noted. It’s dated, what happened. The facts are the facts.

But the person that loses, nobody wants to hear the reason. Nobody want to hear an explanation of how you lost or why you lost. They just want to hear you say hey, I admit it, I lost. But I’m going to try my best the next time. That won’t be the last of me. I’m coming back. I promise.

People respect that even more. Because the thing about it, people don’t like a loser that contradicts themselves. One minute you’re good, you’re healthy. You’re talking so confidently. And then when the time to fight happens, all of a sudden something just so dramatically happens in the ring.

I’m at peace. Let’s give him the benefit of the doubt. Let’s say he did get dehydrated and stuff like that. Well, come November 4th, he got an opportunity to redeem yourself.

And for that reason, I’m happy for him. He says he’s happy. So hey, I’ve been through a lot of happiness obtaining this belt. And it seems on his end he’s only suffered headaches and pain and heartaches.

So, if this fight brings some type of comfort or relief or happiness that shall come upon him, then may God be with him. But, come that night November the 4th, I don’t see anything being different. I don’t see – if anything, the only thing that’s going to be different is it’s much easier. It’s going to be a much easier fight.

When you get in the ring with somebody you’re fighting the first time, you get everything. We went 12 rounds, so we know each other. And we know what the outcome was.

So, the second time around, why would it be any different? If he feels that he has something over me; he feels that he’s seen something that he can exploit in this fight come the second time around, what do you think I have? What do you think I see?

It’s been almost three years. I’m better. My mind is better. My mind is a different state of being. I’m at peace. My mind is totally at a different state. I’m happy for him and, we shall see. He said, it’s no more excuses after this and, I hope it’s not. Because I’m tired of it, man.

If this fight happens the same way, the first time happened or worse, who looks like the fool at the end of the day?

You all can put this at the top of the headlines. Because the way I’m feeling about boxing right now, if Bermane Stiverne beats me, I will retire. You can put that down. I will be out of the way.

Boxing ain’t got to worry about me no more because it ain’t really doing no good anyway. Nobody want to fight. All I wanted to do was prove that I am the best. The best don’t want to fight so, what’s the point of me being in this sport?

If Bermane beats me you all don’t have to hear about me no more. I’m done. I’m done. That’s how serious it gets. It doesn’t get no more serious than that. So, let the games begin.

Q
Bermane how could you say that you took his best shots when he broke his hand in the third round? And why do you say that he’s scared of you?

B. Stiverne
Everything that he gave me, I ate it like breakfast, as a sick man in the ring. You see what I’m saying?

I lost the fight; I lost the fight. But I’m tired of talking about the first fight. Of course, I believe I’m going to win. It doesn’t matter if you fight the same guy five times, who they put before you is who you fight. You don’t cry and talk about I want this fight, I want that fight. Whoever they put in front of you, that’s who fight.

I didn’t cry when they brought back Arreola. I took Arreola. I didn’t cry. I didn’t run. I didn’t talk, I took him. I shut my mouth and went back to the gym and fought him again for a second time. That’s what a true champion does.

Even though you’ve got a fight the same person three, four times, they don’t matter. A champion shuts his mouth and do what he’s got to do; fight. It doesn’t matter.

The man couldn’t knock me out. Nobody can knock me out. Nobody. It won’t happen. It never happened, even though it says on my record, nobody knocked me out, ever. And that will not happen November 4, whether it’s you or anybody else; anybody else. And right now, I don’t even feel like I want to talk to anybody. I want you all to come and talk to me after the fight. That’s what I want.

Any question, you all got to come and ask me after the fight. Because I bet you, the questions you have for me, won’t be the same questions you have, right now. I guarantee you that.

Everybody can talk whatever they want to talk. It doesn’t even matter. Me talking right now, him talking right now, it doesn’t even matter. It doesn’t matter. Words don’t matter. What matters is what happens on November 4th. That’s what matters.

He could say he could knock me out. I could say I’m going to knock him out. It doesn’t matter. It does not matter. What matters is what happens on November 4th. That’s what happens. That’s what matters.

Q
Deontay, you heard the challenger there. Are you scared of him? And did he eat everything you threw at him like he was eating breakfast?

D. Wilder
Well, the world knows that I’m not scared of Bermane. Bermane don’t have nothing that he possesses that makes me fear him.

In fact, not only just him, I’m not scared of no man on this earth. I’m too protected by God to be scared of any man. If I was scared, I wouldn’t be in this sport.

If I was scared I wouldn’t have called out every name; the best of the best. Who people said was the best. If I was scared I would never have done that. If I was scared I would never have said hey, I’m going to lose money to let this man step aside and let me fight who’s considered the fucking best in this sport if I was scared of a man.

Scared is not in my definition. I ain’t even scared of death, so why would I be scared of a human being? Because death is something that is promised to us that we cannot avoid.

We can only hope and pray that God extend our life on this earth. But death shall come. The only way we can deal with death is to prepare for it. That’s it.

So, why would I be scared? And for him to say he ate my punches for breakfast, then guess what. I hope you left room for lunch baby. I hope you left room for lunch. Because we don’t want to hear no excuses. I don’t have no problems fighting him again.

It wasn’t the fact that I had a problem. My big issue that was with Bermane was that he hasn’t fought in almost three years, compared to me. I didn’t think that was fair to him.

I didn’t think it was fair because I know what I’m capable of doing. I know what I’ve been doing. I’ve been very active but, he hasn’t. And that was the main reason.

If he felt like he’s ready, I don’t have no problems – and this is what it boils down to right now. He was my mandatory so, I couldn’t get around him. No way, form, or fashion, if we follow behind the WBC rules.

Nobody was trying to avoid him at all. I just wanted him to get more fights – it didn’t even have to be credible opponents. I just wanted him to fight more people so when the time would come with me, I don’t want no excuses. I don’t want people to say, well this and that. Or he didn’t fight nobody.

I didn’t want him to get discredited nor did I want to get discredited because, I know how it is. Look at it. I’ve done all the right things in boxing. Now, what have I done wrong?

And I still get criticized. I’m still the one that get the blame. I still, still, still, still. It ain’t the point of me not wanting to fight him. It’s the point of me wanting him to be in full health, spirit wise and body wise. That’s all.

That’s all. I didn’t have no problem. I enjoyed my first fight with him. And I’m going to damn sure enjoy the second fight with him as well, too. I just don’t want the excuses. I don’t have no more time for excuses.

Boxing has changed my point of view. And the love of this sport, with the things that are going on. And like I said, if Bermane beats me, you all don’t have to hear about me no more. I’m gone. I’m out of here. I’m retiring. That’s it. I might move to MMA or some shit. I’m out of here. And that’s facts.

So, come November the 4th, I hope he’s about what he says because I’m about what I say. I prove what I say. I say what I mean, and I mean what I say. And anybody know me knows, if Deontay say something, he means it. And that’s how it is. That’s how I’ve always been, and that’s how I always will be.

I fight with my heart. I fight with my will. Forget skills. Skills ain’t got me nowhere in life. But my heart, my will, my courage, me believing in me, that got me through every bit of life that I needed to get through.

And come November the 4, we shall see. We got one man saying one thing, we got the other saying another. But hey like I said, the ring is the judge. And the people are the jury so, we shall see. God can hear our prayers and he can answer our prayers.

I’ve tried to make the best out of this fight. I’ve tried to give him opportunities to build himself up. And here we are guys. Here we are.

So, hopefully once this is over with, when I beat him I can move on with my career and still go on to be the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world. That’s all I ever wanted.

Or on the other hand if he beats me, then Deontay Wilder retired from this sport. And you all won’t have to worry about him doing another interview in boxing every again.

Q
I was on a call with Anthony Joshua, who was entirely respectful of Deontay. Spoke very well of Deontay and said he’s very interested in fighting in 2018. Is that a sort of, you’ll believe it when you see it sort of thing, or is does this leave you encouraged?

L. DiBella
If Eddie Hearn wants Anthony Joshua fight in 2018, he knows who to call. By the way, maybe if he really wanted that fight his promoter would be more respectful to Deontay instead of continuing to try to bad mouth him and belittle him.

If he really wanted to fight he’d stop talking about some ordinary guy named Dillian Whyte and stop calling out Deontay with an ordinary guy and start talking in real terms about making a unified heavyweight championship fight.

But right now Deontay has got to get past Bermane Stiverne. He’s got to do that on November 4. That’s not going to be a day in the park. And frankly, it’s not going to be largely because Deontay was preparing for an entirely different fight, once again.

And once again he got victimized by the politics, the cheating, the lack of professionalism on the part of so many people in this sport that don’t know how to properly fill out forms. It’s the third time a fight has been cancelled in 18 months.

Someone made a comment about Bermane Stiverne said he ate his breakfast. I wish the same person would have asked a different question.

How do you fight one fight in two years against a guy that knocked you down and subsequently gets knocked out, and barely do anything and you’re still the WBC mandatory? That would have been a better question.

But in the meantime, there’s nothing we can do about it. November 4, I’m worried about the fight because Stiverne has got nothing to lose and Deontay has got everything to lose.

People should come out and see an honorable heavyweight champion, an honest heavyweight champion and one who doesn’t cheat, defend his title at Barclays Center November 4 on a great card on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING starting at 9:00 pm ET. Get your tickets at Ticketmaster.com, Barclayscenter.com, or at Barclays Center. Thank you all for joining us.

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For more information visit www.sho.com/sports , www.premierboxingchampions.com,
follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @TGBPromotions@BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing, www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter, and www.Facebook.com/

LONG ISLAND (October 24, 2017) – The off-TV stacked undercard has officially been set for the Saturday, Nov. 11 showdown between Daniel “Miracle Man” Jacobs and undefeated Luis Arias at NYCB LIVE, home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Leading the undercard is Jesse Angel Hernandez (9-1, 7 KOs), a 26-year-old southpaw from Fort Worth, Texas, who will battle Glenn Dezurn (9-0-1, 6 KOs) from Baltimore, MD. Jesse has 16 siblings – nine boys were boxers and six turned professional, including Jose “El Loco” Hernandez, and Rodrigo Hernandez. Salita Promotions recently signed Hernandez after witnessing an impressive knockout over then undefeated in seventeen fights Russian Vladimir Tikhonov, also a Salita Promotions fighter.

“It’s great exposure to be part of such a big event,” said Hernandez. “I want to be the guy fighting on TV and in the main event in the near future. Dezurn is a steppingstone for me and you can expect an action packed fight ending in a knockout.”

Undefeated Connor Benn (9-0, 7 KOs), from Essex United Kingdom, the son of former middleweight and super middleweight world champion Nigel Benn, will battle Highland NY’s Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (13-14-1, 5 KOs) in a six-round welterweight contest. Benn has fought in some of the biggest venues in the world (O2 and Manchester Arenas); and on the biggest fight cards, (making pro debut on Martin vs. Joshua card, and also the Golovkin vs. Brock and Joshua vs. Molina events).

“New York here I come!” said Benn. “I’m honored to be the first Matchroom UK fighter to box on a show in America and it’s a massive chance for me to make a big impact in front of a new audience. I’m only 20, I love new experiences and I plan on making this a long journey.”

Undefeated New York City police officer Dimash “Lightning” Niyazov (12-0, 5 KOs) will fight in a six-round lightweight bout. Born in Shymkent, Kazakhstan and now residing in Staten Island, NY, Niyazov began boxing at 4 years old. At 13, his family moved to the United States and his father began boxing training in earnest. As an amateur, Niyazov won the NY Empire State Games and NY Metros. He became a member of New York City’s finest three years ago and is stationed in Brooklyn.

Shohjahon Ergashev (9-0, 9 KOs), Uzbekistan’s popular 25-year-old four-time amateur national champion will battle Marquis Hawthorne (5-7, 1KO) from Waco, TX, in a six-round welterweight bout. To prepare for his US debut, Ergashev, who has won his last five fights inside of round one, is training at Kronk Gym in Detroit with well-known Javan SugarHill Steward (nephew of legendary Emmanuel Steward).

“Shoh has the power, skills and charisma to be a star in boxing and has a very loyal fan base,” said Salita. “Hundreds of people from his community will be there to support him on November 11.”

Tommy Rainone (26-8-1, 6 KOs) from Rockville Centre, NY, will have a six round welterweight rematch with Mexican Fidel Monterrosa-Munoz (38-14-1, 30 KOs), inwhich Monterrosa-Munoz won by unanimous decision on July 15. While Rainone began his love affair with boxing at age seven when he saw the movie “Rocky”, he didn’t make his professional debut until age 26. With a loyal fans base that has continues to grow, Rainone won his first eleven professional bouts, including two wins in a five-day span and a third victory 15 days later.

“I’m Looking forward to this fight and I’m extremely humbled and blessed to get this opportunity for revenge with the same opponent at the same venue under better circumstances then the first time around,” said Rainone. “That loss has haunted me for months and I didn’t know if I would get the chance to make the wrong thing right.”

Long Islander Tyrone James (4-0, 3 KOs) from Elmont, NY, is carrying the torch of his athletic family and will fight in a six-round welterweight bout. Tyrone’s father, Derrell, was a standout professional football player and his uncle Jerry was a 1988 Golden Gloves champion. Tyrone started boxing at age 10 and went on to have an outstanding amateur career becoming a 5-time Junior Olympic [MG1] champion and Nebraska Golden Glove champion.

“I’m very excited to be fighting so close to home and on such a huge card. As soon as Joe DeGuardia called to offer me the opportunity I jumped at it,” said James. “I was at the first boxing card in July at the Coliseum and knew I wanted to fight there. It’s a great place for my family and friends to see me in action.”

Tickets for the live event are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, NYCBLIVE.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the Ticketmaster Box Office at the Coliseum.

Opening the action-packed HBO telecast will be super lightweight knockout artists Long Island’s own Cletus Seldin and Roberto Ortiz squaring off in a 10-round bout. In the chief-support bout, exciting heavyweight Jarrell Miller looks to stake his claim on a heavyweight title shot and in his way is Polish giant Mariusz Wach.

Jacobs vs. Arias and Miller vs. Wach are presented by Matchroom Boxing USA, in association with Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment, Salita Promotions and Roc Nation Sports. Seldin vs. Ortiz is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Star Boxing. BROOKLYN BOXING on Long Island is an extension of BSE’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ brand. For more information, visit brooklynboxingshop.com.

IBF Super-Middleweight World Champion James DeGale and IBF Featherweight World Champion Lee Selby will defend their belts on a huge night of boxing at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday 9th December, live on BT Sport and BoxNation.

DeGale, 31, became the first British boxer to win both an Olympic gold medal and a professional World Title when he sensationally beat Andre Dirrell for the Vacant IBF 168 pounds title in the USA in May 2015.

‘Chunky’ had previously won Gold for Great Britain at the Beijing 2008 Olympics in the Middleweight boxing event, before turning professional with Hall of Fame Promoter Frank Warren in 2009.

The classy hard-hitting Londoner continued his campaign across the Atlantic with the first defence of his IBF crown against Lucien Bute in Canada in November 2015 and followed that up with a win over Rogello Medina in Washington in April 2016.

His unification fight with WBC Super-Middleweight Champion Badou Jack earlier this year ended in a majority draw. Jack was knocked down in the first round but ended strongly flooring the gutsy DeGale in the last round in New York.

Southpaw DeGale will now make the first defence of his IBF crown on home soil on a blockbuster night of action also featuring rising British stars Anthony Yarde and Daniel Dubois.

Undefeated Welshman Lee Selby won the IBF Featherweight title in May 2015 when he defeated Evgeny Gradovich and has gone on to make three successful defences of his crown.

He says he is ready to give IBF mandatory challenger Josh Warrington ‘an educated boxing lesson’ once he comes through his latest defence in London on December 9.

Selby has successfully defended his title twice this year, stopping Andoni Gago at the 02 Arena in March and winning in July against Jonathan Victor Barros just four days after the death of his mother.

The Barry fighter and Warrington have been embroiled in a long-running battle of words, with Selby accusing the Leeds boxer of ‘bottling’ an opportunity to face him.

“To be defending my World Title in my home city is a dream come true,” said DeGale. “I have made my name as a road warrior but now it is time to remind everyone at home who the best Super-Middleweight in the World is.

“I haven’t showcased my skills in the UK since 2014 and I’m looking forward to putting on a memorable performance for the people of London and everyone tuning in at home on BT Sport and BoxNation.

“I’m back in full training and feeling fit and ready to go on December 9. Fans can look forward to an explosive performance, I’m itching to get under those bright lights again!”

“I can’t wait to return to the ring on a huge night of boxing,” said Selby. “There’s some terrific fighters featuring on the bill but I’ll be stealing the show and ending 2017 in style.

“I will definitely be fighting my mandatory challenger Josh Warrington after I come through this fight. To me he is just another opponent, but I think he’s got emotionally attached to me.

“I will give him an educated lesson and then move on!”

Promoter Frank Warren said: “I am delighted James and Lee are showcasing their talents on our last big show in London this year. I expect it to be a special night for James, defending his World Title in his home city for the first time. Selby is a class operator and should he come through this fight, we will be looking to make the long-awaited fight with Josh in 2018. Rising stars Anthony Yarde and Daniel Dubois will also feature on this unmissable card and I know fans will be in for a real treat.”

DeGale and Selby will face the media at a press conference in London on Monday 30th October – further details will be announced shortly.

CARDIFF, WALES (Oct. 25, 2017) – Unified Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua and IBF mandatory challenger Carlos Takam worked out in front of approximately 1,400 fans on Wednesday at St. David’s Hall in Cardiff, just three days before they square off this Saturday live on SHOWTIME.

The near-capacity crowd at the National Concert Hall of Wales serves as a prelude to the record-breaking audience expected at Principality Stadium on Saturday where more than 75,000 fans will set boxing’s all-time indoor attendance record at the retractable roof facility.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast begins live at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT from ringside in Cardiff as Joshua (19-0, 19 KOs) returns for the first time since unifying the heavyweight division. The undefeated British sensation picked up the WBA belt to go along with his IBF crown on April 29 in a leading Fight of the Year thriller with Wladimir Klitschko.

“We’re going to have a war. We’re going to wear our hearts on our sleeves,” Joshua said. “This is what fighting’s about. With me, it ain’t about all this other stuff that goes on outside the ring. When people come to watch me box, they know they’re going to have a good time. They know they’re going to see knockouts.”

Takam (35-3-1, 27 KOs), a 2004 Olympian from Cameroon, packs a lengthy resume as he looks to shock the world and become heavyweight champion.

“He’s a world champion, he’s earned his belt,” said the 36-year-old Takam. “But I’m coming here to take it.”

Joshua vs. Takam is the first of two consecutive heavyweight world bouts on SHOWTIME. Next Saturday, Nov. 4, WBC Heavyweight World Champion Deontay Wilder will defend his title in a rematch with Bermane Stiverne, the only opponent to last the distance with the American champion in 38 professional bouts.

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

ANTHONY JOSHUA:
“I’ve never been nervous about fighting but I think this stadium is going to be different. There’s a closed roof. I know the energy and the atmosphere is going to be bouncing up and down off the roof and it’s going to be nothing like before. As I said, if Saturday night is a little bit like the people today here at the public workout, it’s going to be phenomenal.

“This is what fighting’s about – different styles and different types of opponents. But the best opponent you can work on is yourself so I’ve definitely been improving myself. I can talk about a million things I’ve been working on but at the end of the day, as soon as that first bell rings, that’s when it matters.

“We’re going to have a war. We’re going to wear our hearts on our sleeves. This is what fighting’s about. With me, it ain’t about all this other stuff that goes on outside the ring. When people come to watch me box, they know they’re going to have a good time. They know they’re going to see knockouts. They’re going to see a bit of blood and a bit of respect after.

“I think the UK has been sending a statement for a long time. It wasn’t so long ago that U.K. heavyweights or boxers weren’t getting a look. Now, all the Americans are talking about U.K. fighters. We’ve definitely been sending a statement over to the States for a long time.

“[Joseph Parker and Deontay Wilder] can watch me a million times but it’s so different when you get in these ropes. When you get in here, you can watch somebody a million times, but it’s a different challenge when you face someone face-to-face.

“We have to deliver. The fans know what they want, I know what they want. It’s my job to deliver. I haven’t got to say it – I know already and the fans know. Let’s just deliver Saturday night and we’ll look forward to a promising 2018.”

On opponent Takam, who became the mandatory challenger after an injury to Kubrat Pulev:
“First and foremost, massive credit to Eddie [Hearn] because he’s done amazing work. He was ahead of the game and he’s managed to allow this show to go ahead. Credit to Carlos Takam, a true athlete who stays fit all year round. He’s not someone who just trains for a fight, he seems to keep himself conditioned and that’s what we like. He’s the same as myself. And I think – what would I do? Would I give up the IBF belt? Hell no. I worked too hard for it.”

CARLOS TAKAM:
“I’m ready for this fight, I’m ready for everything he has. I’ve been waiting for this opportunity for a long time. We were in the gym getting ready, hoping we would get this chance.

“He’s a world champion, he’s earned his belt. But I’m coming here to take it. You have to defend your title, and I’m not going to make it easy. I’m going to make this the fight of the year.

“If I can do things differently from what other boxers have done against him, I’ll have a chance to win by knockout.

“A lot of people have asked me if I see any weaknesses in Joshua’s style. All I can say is we will see on fight night.

“I’m not bothered about fighting in front of 80,000 people, the only people in the ring will be myself and Joshua, nothing else matters except us.”

White Plains, NY/Philadelphia, PA — Demetrius Andrade, two-time and undefeated world champion, showed that he has the drawing power to go along with his unquestioned ring talent as his bout with undefeated Alantez Fox outdrew both the main event and opening bouts in the ratings last Saturday night by over 90,000 viewers on HBO Boxing After Dark®.

The Andrade – Fox bout peeked at 685,000 viewers. That number outdrew the main event, the WBA World Super Featherweight title bout between Jezreel Corrales & Alberto Machado. That is an impressive number considering the sports viewing competition was incredibly strong. That competition was headlined by Game 7 of the American League Championship Series (New York Yankees – Houston Astros) as well as two high-profile college football games featuring Penn State and Michigan as well as Notre Dame and USC.

Those games were all still going on when Andrade and Fox walked to the ring but were well over by the time the main event started.

“To have Demetrius pull in that viewership going against The Yankees, Penn State, Notre Dame, Michigan and USC just shows the interest in an American boxer who can be considered one of the best out there. Those above mentioned teams are most iconic programs and teams in American sports,” said Artie Pelullo, President of Banner Promotions.

Joe DeGuardia, President of Star Boxing said, “I am very pleased with the ratings. It is an anomaly when the co-feature bout does a higher rating than the main event. Additionally, considering that Demetrius’ fight competed with significant live sports competition, including game 7 of a fantastic Yankees-Astros series and major college football games, it shows fans are interested in a talented American boxer with US Olympic pedigree.”

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

Rob Brant (22-0, 15 KOs) and Juergen Braehmer (48-3, 35 KOs) went head-to-head before their Ali Trophy quarter-final clash on October 27 in Schwerin, Germany.

“Juergen has done it all, seen it all, but he hasn’t fought me,” said 27-year-old Brant. “I am very confident that I will win on Friday. I have to be sharp mentally, but I feel in better shape than ever in every way. I know it’s a cliché to say that, but on Friday the crowd and the world will see what I am talking about.”

Brant has been oozing confidence in the built up for the fight, but hometown hero and former two-time world champion Braehmer says his ready to make a final statement at a late stage in his career.

“I feel good, top motivated,” said 39-year-old Braehmer. “I am not underestimating Brant, but I am in this tournament to win it. At the age of 39, this is my last chance to achieve something big, and I’m going to take advantage of the opportunity. I can’t wait for Friday!”

“We have worked on Rob’s physical strength because he is the smaller guy moving up,” said Rob’s coach, Derrick James. “Juergen is a physically strong fighter, an intelligent fighter. This is the clash of ages and I feel that the younger will be victorious. I will be a really good fight.”

Tickets for Braehmer vs. Brant are available at the Sport-und-Kongresshalle in Schwerin are available at eventim.de.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Oct. 25th, 2017) — When studying up on his latest opponent, Cranston, R.I., welterweight Gary Balletto Jr., most internet searches redirected Sharif Jones to video and highlights of Balletto Jr.’s father, former professional boxer Gary “Tiger” Balletto.

“At first I was like, ‘Wait, I can’t be fighting this guy! Shit, I bit off more than I can chew!'” Jones said with a laugh.

The innocuous mix-up is just part of being the son of a famous fighter while looking to carve your own legacy in the sport, even if it’s a different genre, as is the case with Balletto Jr., who’s now 4-1 in mixed martial arts as he prepares for fight No. 6 on Friday, Oct. 27th, 2017 at Twin River Casino on the main card of “CES MMA 46.”

The other twist to carrying the Balletto name is the perception that the younger Balletto is one-dimensional, the byproduct of growing up with a father who boxed 36 times as a professional without having to worry about armbars, leg kicks or takedowns.

The reality is the 22-year-old Balletto Jr. (4-1, 2 KOs) is as well-rounded as they come, a student of the game who has improved his ground game mightily under the guidance of former pro Pete Jeffrey, though he doesn’t mind being pigeonholed if it gives him an advantage on fight night.

“I can only hope!” Balletto Jr. said. “It would definitely give me an element of surprise. I think my grappling has gotten much stronger and maybe underrated for my name. That’s definitely an advantage for me, I think. If they want to press it that hard to the ground, I’m no stranger to grappling.”

Tickets for “CES MMA 46” are priced at $40.00, $55.00, $100.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesboxing.com, www.twinriver.com, www.ticketmaster.com or www.cagetix.com/ces by phone at 401-724-2253/2254 or at the Twin River Casino Players Club. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

The first preliminary fight begins at 7 p.m. ET and the televised main card begins at 9 on AXS TV Fights.

Friday’s fight against Jones (3-2, 1 KO), a gritty Philadelphia native who’s fought the best of the best in the lightweight division, will be Balletto Jr.’s toughest to date, plus there’s the added bonus of again appearing on AXS TV, which broadcasts the top fights live to a worldwide audience.

Following in the footsteps of his father, who starred on ESPN’s short-lived The Contender reality series, Balletto Jr. made his network debut at “CES MMA 45” against Nick Alley and looked every bit like a seasoned pro, stopping his opponent at the 58-second mark of the second round for his fourth consecutive win.

The 22-year-old looked cool, calm and collected in front of the camera, even with the butterflies eating away at him on the inside.

“There’s no way to block that out,” he said. “It’s definitely going through your mind like, ‘Wow, here we are, it’s happening again, we’re back in and there’s only one way out,’ so it’s a cool feeling.”

For Jones, Friday is uncharted territory, not only because of the TV aspect, but because it’s his first fight at 170 pounds. A natural lightweight, Jones has never fought heavier than 160, which he did once as an amateur, but he’s never been one to turn down a challenge, as evident by his resume. The combined record of his five opponents is an impressive 15-6-1, which includes a recent bout against 6-time Bellator vet Will Martinez Jr. in June.

Once he figured out which Balletto he was fighting, Jones concluded whatever Balletto Jr. brings to the table Friday is nothing he hasn’t seen already.

“When he tries to hit me or take me down, I’ve been there before. I can weather the storm,” Jones said. “I know he’s never fought anyone like me with the aggression I come with, the head movement, the gas tank.

“I’ve won by two leglocks, but I’ve never been submitted. I’ve finished people. I can fight on the ground with Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belts, or choke him out, like I did to two other opponents. Stuff like that, you can’t teach. That’s straight heart. When Martinez had me in a triangle, people thought I was out, but I got out of it. Can [Balletto Jr.] do that if he’s in the same position? When he’s on the opposite side or being on the scorecard, can he fight back?”

Balletto Jr. hasn’t done as much homework on Jones – “I know what I need to know,” he said – but is confident in his improved grappling under Jeffrey’s guidance, which paid off in submission wins over Cruz Johnson and Chris Torres. Balletto Jr.’s growth from a loss in his pro debut to four consecutive wins, all in dominant fashion, is impressive to watch, and the best may still be on the horizon.

“I’ve wrestled and grappled before, growing up and stuff, but I owe my whole style to Pete. We work very closely together on developing our philosophy as a fighter and a grappler,” Balletto Jr. said. “Just being comfortable and knowing what to do from each position, just the mindset and strategy is the biggest part of grappling in MMA. It’s different than grappling in jiu-jitsu. It’s a different kind of grappling.

“We’ve put together a great philosophy and strategy for grappling and it’s only getting better. We’re constantly learning and evolving, which is a rare thing with most fighters and coaches. It’s a wonderful thing.”

For once, Jones doesn’t have to focus on cutting weight the week of the fight and can instead concentrate more on strategy. What he lacks in size, he said, he’ll make up for with speed and aggressiveness, plus he won’t experience the energy drain common with fighters who have to cut weight the night before, but don’t rehydrate properly on fight day.

“I’ve got respect for him because of the legacy his dad left behind and I respect his game,” Jones said, “but this isn’t something I’ve never seen before.”

The main event of “CES MMA 46” features the return of former CES MMA Middleweight World Champion “Doomsday” John Howard (24-13, 9 KOs) of Boston, who faces submission specialist Roger Carroll (16-14) of Claremont, N.C.

“CES MMA 46” also features the return of East Providence, R.I., bantamweight Dinis Paiva (9-6, 5 KOs), who faces Pennsylvania vet Brandon Seyler (7-5, 1 KO), both of whom will be fighting on the televised main card, plus the professional debut of Oyster Bay, N.Y., welterweight John Gotti III in a three-round bout against Johnny Adams (0-1) of Rutland, Vt.

Also on the main card, lightweight Josh LaBerge (11-6, 5 KOs) of Fall River, Mass., returns to face Jonathan Lemke (6-8, 5 KOs) of Auburn, Maine, and bantamweight Rico DiSciullo (7-1, 3 KOs) of Peabody, Mass., faces Justin King (6-5) of Lawrence, Ind. Justin Sumter (3-1, 2 KOs) of New Haven, Conn., returns in a lightweight bout against Rahway, N.J., vet Shedrick Goodridge (6-9, 2 KOs).

Also returning Oct. 27th, Providence featherweight Marquis Brewster (3-0) battles Raymond Yanez (4-11, 1 KO) of Marion, Ohio, on the preliminary, where joining featherweight Pat McCrohan (2-1, 1 KO) of Berkley, Mass., who faces Buck Pineau (1-3) of Ashland, Maine. New Bedford bantamweight Jessie Pires makes his professional debut in the prelims against Syracuse, N.Y., newcomer Michael Taylor.

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

New York, NY: The upcoming battle between former unified light heavyweight world champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev and Vyacheslav “Lion Heart” Shabranskyy already has fans buzzing. Now this much-anticipated event on Saturday, November 25 at The Theater at Madison Square Garden will also include another exciting bout in the light heavyweight division between Cuban Sullivan Barrera (20-1, 14 KOs) and former WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Champion Felix “Mangu” Valera (15-1, 13 KOs) of the Dominican Republic. The bout will serve as the televised co-feature of HBO World Championship Boxing telecast which begins at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. This bout is presented by Main Events in association with Shuan Boxing Promotions, LLC.

Sullivan Barrera, 35, is ranked number one at light heavyweight by the WBA and, if he can defeat Valera, will be first in line for Dmitry Bivol’s WBA Light Heavyweight Championship belt as the mandatory challenger. A former member of the Cuban National Team who defected from Cuba in 2009, Barrera made his professional debut in 2009 in his adopted hometown of Miami, Florida. He quickly made a name for himself in the light heavyweight division winning his first 17 bouts, with 12 of those wins coming by way of knockout.

Barrera’s only career loss was last year against the recently retired former two-time super middleweight and unified light heavyweight world champion Andre “S.O.G.” Ward. Despite the unanimous decision loss to Ward, Sullivan stood toe-to-toe with the former pound-for-pound king for 12 full rounds. In his most recent fight, Barrera came back from a first-round knockdown to unanimously defeat Joe Smith Jr. and claim the WBC International Light Heavyweight Title.
When asked about this match-up, Barrera responded, “I am happy to be back in action, happy to be fighting in New York where boxing is big. Felix Valera is a tricky and tough fighter. He is just another obstacle in my way towards fighting for a world title.”

Valera, 29, from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic is a knockout artist with 13 KOs in only 15 professional wins. He made his professional debut back in 2012 and won his first 13 contests with 12 of those wins coming by way of the stoppage. Last year, he travelled to Russian and upset Stanislav Kashtanov to secure the WBA Interim Light Heavyweight Title. In his next fight, also in Russia, he suffered his only career loss to the reigning WBA Light Heavyweight Champion Dmitry Bivol in Bivol’s home country. Since the Bivol bout, Valera is 2-0 with 1 KO. This will be his first professional bout on US soil.

“I appreciate the opportunity offered to me by my promotional company, Shuan Boxing Promotion, and Main Events,” said Valera. “But I am warning Barrera right now that I am not going to New York for a vacation! I am going to score that upset and get the win. After my win against Barrera, I am then going to call out Sergey Kovalev because I want to fight the best fighters in my weight class. I am going to put my country, the Dominican Republic, back on the map and make them proud!”

Main Events CEO Kathy Duva said, “The light heavyweight division is wide open right now! Within a few short months, we’ll probably have four champions in the division. Sullivan Barrera and Felix Valera have both worked very hard over the last couple years to stay in the mix while taking on really tough fights. That experience will be an advantage for the winner of this fight, who will almost certainly fight for a world title next. More importantly for the fans, this is a great match up that will deliver in the ring on November 25 at Madison Square Garden.”

Valera’s promoter and CEO of Shuan Boxing Promotions, Bélgica Peña, added, “We have been waiting for an opportunity of this magnitude in the United States for a long time and we want to thank Felipe Gomez from El Matador Management, who has been the person helping us find a fight like this and he is the one who made this connection between us and Main Events. We know that Valera is not going to disappoint anyone with this fight. My fighter is a boxer with a lot of amateur experience and, with only 12 professional fights, he gained a world title in Russia. We know that Barrera is a great fighter, but he is in for major surprise come November. In all, the fans will be the true winner with this fight because Valera is coming to put on a spectacular show!”

Kovalev vs. Shabranskyy is a 10-round light heavyweight fight promoted by Main Events and Krusher Promotions in association with Golden Boy Promotions. Barrera vs. Valera is a 10-round light heavyweight fight promoted by Main Events in Association with Shuan Boxing Promotions. Sosa vs. Castellanos is a 10-round super featherweight fight promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Peltz Boxing. The event will take place at the Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT.

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LAS VEGAS, NV (October 24, 2017) – Prince Ranch Boxing (PRB) has signed managerial agreements with four standout prospects from Mexico, super-featherweight Edwing Davila (16-0, 9 KOs), featherweights Isaac Avelar (13-0, 8 KOs), Mexico Featherweight titlist Daniel Colula (12-1-2, 3 KOs), and female Mayran Salazar (6-2). All fighters were signed to Damien Vazquez’ “Sugar Promotions” and will fight constantly in Aguascalientes, Mexico.

“Signing talent from Mexico is a vital piece to my operation,” said Greg Hannely. “Our goal here at Prince Ranch Boxing, is to have a solid foundation of fighters from Mexico, in addition to having great talent from America. Sugar Promotions will be having multiple shows in Mexico in the next twelve months, so as a promoter, they are a perfect fit for my fighters.”

Sugar Promotions had their first show last week in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Their next show will be scheduled before the end of 2017.

“Davila, Avelar, Colula and Salazar are very popular in Mexico and Sugar Promotions is happy to sign them to promotions agreements,” stated Oscar Vazquez. “Our next show happening in December will be announced shortly. I have big plans for Sugar Promotions moving forward.”

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ST. PETERSBURG, FL. – (October 24, 2017) – Former 147-pound world champion Devon Alexander will battle rugged contender Walter Castillo in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes Tuesday, Nov. 21 from The Coliseum in St. Petersburg, Florida with televised coverage beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT.

The 10-round bout will headline a show promoted by Warriors Boxing and Fire Fist Boxing Promotions and features a 10-round co-main event between unbeaten welterweight prospect Miguel Cruz against once-beaten David Grayton. Two of the fighting Russell brothers, Antonio and Antuanne, brothers of featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr., will enter the ring in separate six-round matches.

Tickets for the live event begin at $35 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com.

“This show is packed with talent and should deliver a great night of boxing for fans in Florida and watching on FS1 and FOX Deportes,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “Devon Alexander is a former two-division champion on the comeback trail and he’ll be tested by Walter Castillo, who is always in exciting fights. Miguel Cruz and David Grayton are both hungry prospects looking to raise their status and Antuanne and Antonio Russell are hoping to follow their brother Gary on the path to a world title. I want to thank my partner Fire Fist Boxing Promotions, for their hard work to make this event happen in Florida.”

The 30-year-old Alexander (26-4, 14 KOs) will end a two-year layoff due to health issues when he steps in against Castillo. Alexander, of St. Louis, Missouri, won the 147-pound world championship with a unanimous decision victory over Randall Bailey in 2012. He lost the title via unanimous decision against Shawn Porter the next year. Alexander, a southpaw, was a unified champion at 140-pounds and owns victories over Marcos Maidana, Lucas Matthysse and Jesus Soto Karass.

“Two years is a long time to be away from something you love but I wanted to make sure when I come back that I would be 100 percent my old self,” Alexander said. “My last outings were not me, and a lot of my fans and people that know me are aware of that. I’ve been in constant training since then while getting my personal situation in order. Castillo is a good solid fight that is going to bring the best skills out of me. He’s not a slouch and he’s coming to fight. But it’s not about what Castillo coming to do. It’s about me making a statement to show people that I am still up there with the elite fighters, and I know that when I’m right, nobody can beat me.”

After campaigning the last few years at 140 pounds, Castillo (26-4-1, 19 KOs) is stepping up to 147 pounds to take on the former champion Alexander. The 29-year-old Castillo, of Managua, Nicaragua, will be ending a 16-month layoff on November 21. Castillo lost by TKO to Sergey Lipinets in a 140-pound clash his last time out after previously fighting to a draw against Keita Obara in a title eliminator.

“I think this could be one of my last great opportunities and I’m very excited for it,” said Castillo. “Devon Alexander is a great boxer and I will have to be at my very best. Even though I’ve been out of the ring, my condition will not be a problem. I am 100 percent ready to give Alexander trouble. I am working very hard on a game plan to stop Alexander shock everyone.”

The unbeaten Cruz (16-0, 11 KOs) has been very busy in 2017 as he steps into the ring for his fourth fight this year. The 27-year-old welterweight from St. Mary, Florida scored a unanimous decision victory over Alex Martin in a rematch in his last fight on June 27 after earning a split-decision in their first fight and beating Ali Mammadov in between.

The 30-year-old Grayton (15-1-1, 11 KOs) is coming off a technical draw against former champion Kermit Cintron in his last fight on March 17. Grayton, of Washington D.C., suffered the only loss of his career when he was stopped by technical knockout by Bryant Perrella on June 4, 2016 before returning to defeat Kareem Martin in August last year leading up to the Cintron fight.

# # #

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

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

Juergen Braehmer (48-3, 35 KOs) has respect for Rob Brant (22-0, 15 KOs), but is confident in advancing to the semi-finals after Friday’s Ali Trophy quarter-final clash in Schwerin, Germany.

“I have never underestimated an opponent and I will not underestimate Brant either,” said 39-year-old Braehmer at Tuesday’s public workout in Schwerin.

All the seeded fighters in the World Boxing Super Series have won their quarter-finals. Fourth seed super middleweight Braehmer is aiming to do the same, but he takes his upcoming challenge very seriously.

“Brant has won the Golden Gloves tournament as an amateur and the three other seeded fighters in the World Boxing Super Series, who could choose their opponents, obviously didn’t want him as an opponent. That speaks for itself and I am not taking anything for granted.”

“I feel good, in great shape and I am ready to show that I still have what it takes to be the best. I predict a tough night for Brant.”

Braehmer, a former two-time light-heavyweight world champion, is looking forward to fighting in front of his hometown fans in Schwerin.

“You can really feel that people are looking forward to the fight and the event. The expectations are great. I am glad that we could get an international format like the World Boxing Super Series to Schwerin. This city loves boxing!”

27-year-old Brant from Dallas, Texas, agreed at today’s public workout:

“You can really feel the interest for the fight in this beautiful city. I will disappoint a lot of people because I am here to beat Braehmer. I don’t like to look beyond any opponent, but I strongly believe that I can win the super middleweight division of the World Boxing Super Series and take home the Muhammad Ali Trophy.”

Tickets for Braehmer vs. Brant are available at the Sport-und-Kongresshalle in Schwerin are available at eventim.de.

Hockessin, DE (October 24, 2017) – Popular lightweight Joey Tiberi will square off with Justin Savi in the main event in an eight-round bout for the USBU Lightweight title at the Hockessin PAL in Hockessin, Delaware on Saturday night, November 11th.

Tiberi of Newark, Delaware has a record of 15-2 with eight knockouts.

The 31 year-old Tiberi is on a three fight winning streak, and coming off a 2nd round stoppage over Marlon Lewis on June 23rd in New Castle, Delaware.

Savi of Silver Spring, Maryland by way of Cotonou, Benin has a record of 31-14-2 with 21 knockouts.

Savi is a very accomplished 16-year veteran who is a former IBF Mediterranean Featherweight champion & WBC Silver Featherweight champion.

The 32 year-old Savi has wins over Dramane Nabaloum (28-2-3), Osumanu Akaba (15-1-1), Pastor Humberto Maurin (49-10), Cyril Thomas (36-3-4) &. Yacine Aberkane (11-0-3).

Savi is coming off a stoppage loss to Jeremy Cuevas on September 22nd in Philadelphia.

In the eight-round co-feature, Lamont Singletary will take on Hafiz Montgomery for the USBU Cruiserweight title.

Singletary of Dover, Delaware has a record of 8-2 with five knockouts.

The 32 year-old Singletary is a six-year professional, who has a win over undefeated Earl Platt (3-0). Singletary is coming off a no-contest with Ernest Reyna on June 23rd in New Castle, Delaware.

Montgomery of Toms River, NJ has a record of 4-1 with two knockouts.

The 36 year-old Montgomery is a two -year professional who is coming off his biggest win when he took a six-round majority decision over previously undefeated Austin Bryant on June 22nd in Durham, North Carolina.

In a six-round super bantamweight bout, Ariel Lopez (7-0, 5 KOs) of Puebla, Mexico will fight against Angel Carvajal (2-7) of Chicago, Illinois.

In four-round bouts:

Shamelle Baldwin will make her pro debut against Chrystal Beyers (0-1) of Ohio in a Welterweight bout.

Weusi Johnson (2-5) of Wilmington, DE will face Edgar Cortez (4-4) of Vineland, NJ in a super bantamweight fight.

Michael Crain of Smyrna, DE will make his pro debut against Anthony Woods (0-5) of Douglasville, GA in a middleweight bout.

Maurice Horne (1-0, 1 KO) of Middletown, DE battles an opponent to be named in a light heavyweight bout.

Sonny Duversonne of Orlando, Florida will take on Dino Peralta of The Dominican Republic in a battle of pro debuting middleweights.

Brandon Mullins will make his pro debut in super middleweight bout against Greg Thomas (1-10) of Philadelphia.

Warris Armany of Queens, NY will make his pro debut against Joshua Cook (0-1) of Newark, NJ in a welterweight contest.

Tickets for this outstanding night of boxing range from $60 for General Admission ($65 at the door) and $45 for General Admission ($50 at the door) and can be purchased by calling 302-540-7203, 302-339-0648 or 302-650-8678.

Service members will receive a $10 discount with ID

Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of Argentinean amateur star and two-time Olympian Alberto “Impacto” Melián to a promotional contract.

Considered by several experts as the best Argentine amateur boxer of the last eight years, Melián represented Argentina in numerous international tournaments, including his double Olympic participation, at the Olympic Games in London 2012 and Rio de Janeiro in 2016.

Melián was also a silver medalist in the South American Championship in Medellín 2010 and was one of the country’s top fighters in the International Boxing Association (AIBA) tournaments. He also reached the quarterfinals at the Pan American Games in Guadalajara 2011.

Among his most outstanding victories is one over Cuban Olympic Champion Robeisy Ramirez in the last pre-Olympic event held in Buenos Aires and Frenchman Khedafi Djelkhir, Olympic silver medalist, in Beijing 2008 and APB Series World champion.

In 2014, he was chosen by the Boxing Journalist’s Union of Argentina (UPERBOX) for the “Firpo de Oro” award as the best boxer in the country. During that season, the AIBA recognized Melián as #1 worldwide in the super bantamweight weight class.

“I am honored to be chosen as Melián’s promoter and will work hard to help him reach the world championship,” said Sampson Lewkowicz. “My work in South America, is paying dividends with the addition of Melián, as well as his fellow Argentinean Olympian Alberto Palmetta to my promotional stable.”

Melián’s pro debut is scheduled for December. A more detailed announcement will follow.
About Sampson Boxing
After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008.

Sampson Boxing has grown into one of the world’s most prestigious promotional firms, representing many of the world’s best fighters and most promising young contenders.

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America and Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, VS. and several international networks.

Robert Helenius says he’ll knockout Dillian Whyte and ruin his World title dreams when they clash for the WBC Silver Heavyweight title at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday October 28, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Helenius and Whyte both know that victory on Saturday night will be a giant step towards a clash with WBC king Deontay Wilder, the brash Oklahoma KO machine that is hunting his own showdown with Saturday night’s headline star Anthony Joshua.

Whyte has been calling our Wilder and would also relish a rematch with old foe Joshua, but the ‘Nordic Nightmare’ is in no doubt that he is coming to rip up that script and will do so by knocking out ‘The Bodysnatcher’.

“I will definitely win by knockout,” said Whyte. “He will definitely fall. I know it will be a tough fight, but it will be a tough fight for Dillian more than it will be for me, and it will be a loss on his record, that’s it. I hope he stands and fights with me and doesn’t run, as his reputation suggests.

“I have absolutely no worries about ring rust because I am always, always in training. I feel I have ten years left in boxing, and during this time I will definitely become word heavyweight champion. I have no doubts.

“This is my fight, not his, and I do not care about Whyte or what he does well. I have seen his fight with Joshua, where he was knocked out, and he will suffer a similar defeat when he steps in with me. Make no mistake, I am coming to the UK to conquer!

“This fight will assist me in getting a World title shot. I want a fight with Wilder, I know I can KO him and I will KO him if I get the fight with him. In my opinion Joshua is the best of the current heavyweight champions. Of course I want to fight him also.”

Helenius’ clash with Whyte is part of a huge night of action in Cardiff where Joshua defends his World Heavyweight titles against Carlos Takam, one of three World title clashes as Katie Taylor challenges WBA World Lightweight champion Anahi Sanchez and Kal Yafai defends his WBA World Super-Flyweight title against Japanese mandatory challenger Sho Ishida.

There’s a mouth-watering British and Commonwealth Light-Heavyweight battle between Frank Buglioni, Lenroy Thomas and Dave Allen rematch for the Commonwealth Heavyweight title and Team GB Olympian and Welsh talent Joe Cordina appears in his fifth pro outing.

A limited number of tickets remain on sale via www.StubHub.co.uk.

Accessibility, ambulant and wheelchair tickets – please contact the Principality stadium via 02920 822432 – also on sale from midday Tuesday.

Official hospitality packages are available to purchase directly from Principality Stadium Experience. Both private suite and premium lounge packages are available to purchase, with prices starting from £450 per person + VAT. For further information please call the team on 02920 822 413.

Official Travel & Hospitality packages are also available via Sportsworld via www.sportsworld.co.uk or by calling 0208 9712966

Please ensure you plan your travel into the city before purchasing your tickets and allow plenty of time for additional security checks at the venue – please visit http://www.principalitystadium.wales/events/v/joshua-v-pulev-2017-10-28 to view the travel page for the event.

MONTREAL – Oct. 23, 2017 – There was a lot of hostility in the air today, while the WBO World Middleweight Champion Billy Joe Saunders (25-0, 12 KOs) and former IBF World Middleweight Champion David Lemieux (38-3, 33 KOs) were hosting a press conference to discuss their upcoming showdown to be held on Dec. 16 at the Place Bell in Laval, Quebec. Saunders vs. Lemieux is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Eye of the Tiger Management, in association with Frank Warren, and will be televised live on HBO World Championship beginning at 9:40 p.m. ET/PT.

Here is what the participants had to say at today’s press conference:

Billy Joe Saunders, current WBO World Middleweight Champion:
“This fight has good fight written all over it. There is a lot at stake. I’m going to be very aware because as you all know, boxing is a funny game, it can end very quickly with one punch. And it goes both ways. David is going to eat some, and he’s going to beg me to finish him off.

“Styles make fight. It’s the classic match-up between the boxer and the puncher and I’m looking forward to it. I was born to fight, and I’m going to prove it by unifying the belts as soon as I’m done with David.

“Lemieux shows a lot of heart when he comes to fight but the real truth is, I’m to slick and too good for him. I’m in boxing to win and defend my belt all over the world, Lemieux is my tester for the winner of Canelo and Golovkin. ”

David Lemieux, former IBF World Middleweight Champion:
“I think that you are in for a surprise. I will be at my best and take the title from you.

“If the fight demands me chasing you, I will chase you. If the fight demands me to go toe-to-toe, I will. On December 16, I promise that I won’t leave the Place Bell without the belt. I’m extremely excited. Let’s get it on!”

Dominic Ingle, trainer to Billy Joe Saunders:
“Billy wants to fight Golovkin and wants to measure himself against Lemieux. It’s a great test for him.

“David is a great fighter, big puncher and a clever boxer. Billy is in a very good place and he’s had some brilliant training and a great camp so far. He is super confident to put on a great show. Hopefully, Dec. 16 is going to be a great night of boxing!”

Marc Ramsay, trainer to David Lemieux:
“I’m proud to train a boxer such as David Lemieux, who is a true warrior, a real champion, always up for real challenges. As soon as we found out that facing Canelo wasn’t an option, we started looking at other options. David’s request was clear: ‘I want to face the best fighter available.’ And, we found it in Saunders, and it’s going to be a good challenge for David. Once again, he will give the fans a show to remember and a beautiful Christmas gift.

“This fight is a great opportunity for David to write history and follow the steps of great Arturo Gatti, by becoming two time World Champion.”

Camille Estephan, president of Eye of the Tiger Management:
“We promised our fans to host a championship fight and we delivered. We would like to thank our great partners, HBO, Golden Boy Promotions, Videotron and evenko who made it possible.

“We also promised that David would become World Champion again, and I guarantee that we will keep our promise. We are glad to inaugurate the Place Bell with this terrific boxing event. We will write history together on Dec. 16.”

Saunders vs. Lemieux, a 12-round fight for Saunder’s WBO World Middleweight Championship, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Eye of the Tiger Management in association with Frank Warren Promotions. The event will take place Dec. 16, at the Place Bell in Laval, Canada and will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing. Tickets will go on sale on Saturday, October 28 at 12p.m. at www.evenko.ca.

For further information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.eottm.com, www.frankwarren.com and www.hbo.com/boxing. Follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EOTMVD, @hboboxing, @bjsaunders_, @LemieuxBoxing, @frankwarren_tv and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing. Visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @eottm_boxing, @saundersbillyjoe, @davidlemieuxboxing, and follow the conversation using #SaundersLemieux.

23 October 2017 – Singapore: The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced the full card for ONE: IMMORTAL PURSUIT, set for 24 November at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Fans will be treated to another exciting evening of authentic martial arts action, as the best martial artists in the world take to the ONE Championship cage. In the main event, reigning ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion “Unstoppable” Angela Lee will defend her title against Japanese martial arts veteran Mei “V.V” Yamaguchi in a highly-anticipated rematch. In the evening’s co-main event, reigning ONE Welterweight World Champion Ben “Funky” Askren will defend his title against former ONE Lightweight World Champion Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki. It is Askren’s final bout as a professional before he retires from the cage, and takes an executive position with ONE Championship.

Ticket information for ONE: IMMORTAL PURSUIT is available at www.onefc.com.

21-year-old “Unstoppable” Angela Lee of Singapore is considered one of ONE Championship’s most outstanding athletes. She captured the inaugural ONE Women’s Atomweight World Championship with an awe-inspiring victory over Mei Yamaguchi in 2016, and has since then defended the title successfully on two occasions. Lee’s beautiful combination of elite striking and grappling has proven to be a potent formula for success, as she has remained unbeaten in her career. In the most recent bout of an impressive run, Lee dominated top contender Istela Nunes, showcasing her wide array of skills. She now returns to Singapore to defend her title against Mei Yamaguchi in a much-anticipated rematch.

34-year old Japanese martial arts veteran Mei “V.V” Yamaguchi is a female atomweight standout and a former ONE world title challenger from Tokyo. She is the DEEP Jewels Featherweight Champion, and owns seven submissions and two knockouts in her 27-bout professional career. In 2016, Yamaguchi challenged Angela Lee for the inaugural ONE Women’s Atomweight World Championship in an epic showdown that would later win multiple ‘Bout of the Year’ honors from international media publications. In her last bout, Yamaguchi submitted top contender Jenny Huang impressively within two rounds. With the victory, Yamaguchi earned the right to challenge for the world title once more opposite the champion Angela Lee.

A former NCAA Division I All-American and US Olympian, Ben “Funky” Askren is a collegiate wrestling legend and one of the finest martial artists in the world today. Askren joined ONE Championship in 2014, taking the promotion by storm and capturing the ONE Welterweight World Championship with a resounding technical knockout victory over Nobutatsu Suzuki. Since then, Askren has successfully defended the title twice, and has stopped six of his last seven opponents to maintain a perfect 17-0 professional record. In what is being billed as the last bout of Askren’s illustrious professional career, the American is set to defend his title against the legendary Shinya Aoki of Japan.

Global martial arts veteran Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki of Shizuoka, Japan, is one of the world’s most decorated athletes. He is the DREAM Lightweight Champion, former Shooto Welterweight Champion, and the former ONE Lightweight World Champion. The 34-year-old Aoki is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under the famed Yuki Nakai and has won multiple grappling tournaments all over the world. Aoki also holds a black belt in judo and is widely considered one of the best pure grapplers in professional martial arts competition today. In his next bout, Aoki makes his ONE Championship welterweight debut, taking on reigning ONE Welterweight World Champion Ben Askren of the United States for the title.

Leandro “Brodinho” Issa is a 34-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion black belt from Sao Paulo, Brazil, who trains and competes out of the world-renowned Evolve Fight Team in Singapore. With a record of 14 wins and six losses, including nine wins by submission and two by knockout, Issa has proven to be an exciting competitor with a penchant for spectacular victories. A pioneer of ONE Championship’s bantamweight division, Issa will take on American Andrew Leone in his next assignment.

Andrew Leone of Cortland, New York, is a 28-year-old martial artist who trains alongside some of the most talented combat sports athletes in Asia at the renowned Bali MMA gym in Indonesia. With a standout record of eight wins and only three losses, Leone is victorious in three of his last four outings, including tough decisions over top flyweight contenders. In his most recent contest, Leone earned the right to challenge reigning ONE Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes, falling via first-round submission. Now, Leone is looking to get back into title contention but will next have to face talented veteran Leandro Issa.

22-year-old Singaporean top lightweight contender Amir Khan is a martial artist with a stellar professional record of 8-2. He is considered one of the most promising young talents to represent Singapore on the international stage of martial arts. Khan is currently riding a five-bout win streak, with all of his victories coming by way of scintillating finish, including one by submission and four by devastating knockout. In his most recent outing, Khan needed less than one round to finish Jaroslav Jartim with a combination of punches and kicks. Next in line for Khan is the always-dangerous Adrian Pang.

Adrian “The Hunter” Pang is a martial arts veteran from Queensland, Australia, with a 22-10-2 professional record. The veteran Pang has decimated opponents with his incredible power and no-frills approach to striking in nearly two decades as a professional. He is known for his astounding durability and overwhelming strength, with the ability to walk through opponents with little to no resistance. Pang will need to muster all of his strength however, when he takes on rising star Amir Khan of Singapore in his next appearance inside the ONE Championship cage.

22-year-old Li Kai Wen of Tianjin is the ONE Featherweight Beijing Tournament 2014 Champion and is one of the most fearsome young competitors from China. Li utilizes his tremendous striking ability and aggression to overwhelm foes with his offense, which has resulted in a series of impressive highlight reel stoppages so far in his young career. On his way to becoming a complete martial artist, Li will be faced with a tough challenge in fellow rising star Ahmed Mujtaba.

Ahmed “The Wolverine” Mujtaba is a Pakistani martial artist competing in ONE Championship’s stacked featherweight division. He owns an impressive professional record of six wins with only one defeat, with 83% of his wins coming by spectacular finish. Mujtaba is known for his tremendous grappling technique which has led to four submissions out of six total victories. Mujtaba makes his highly-anticipated return to the ONE Championship cage against Li Kai Wen.

Singaporean female strawweight contender “Mighty” May Ooi is a martial artist with a professional record of 3-2. A former champion swimmer, Ooi represented Singapore in the 1992 Summer Olympics held in Barcelona. Today, she is one of the country’s most talented martial artists, and a hard-working competitor possessing well-rounded striking and grappling skills. In her most recent contest, Ooi scored a thrilling upset, defeating Malaysia’s Ann “Athena” Osman by first-round submission in her promotional debut. Ooi is now set to make her second appearance inside the ONE Championship cage opposite Cambodia’s Vy Srey Khouch.

Vy Srey Khouch is a highly-regarded Cambodian martial artist and former female boxer who competed in numerous international competitions. She made her professional debut in 2015, winning by decision at ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER. In her most recent bout, Srey Khouch fell just short of victory against Malaysian icon Ann Osman at ONE: THRONE OF TIGERS. In her next bout, she will take on Singaporean women’s martial arts standout, May Ooi.

37-year-old Arnaud “The Game” LePont is a lightweight veteran from France who sports a professional record of 11 wins and five losses. A fixture in the Asian martial arts scene, LePont is well-known in local martial arts circles and lives and trains in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. He made his promotional debut in 2012, and has since notched two hard-earned victories in the ONE Championship cage. He now returns to action after a short break to take on Richard Corminal.

Filipino lightweight competitor Richard “Lion Heart” Corminal is a Filipino martial artist based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He holds a professional record of four wins and two losses, with each of his career victories to date coming by way of knockout. In his most recent bout, Corminal debuted inside the ONE Championship cage opposite Thai martial arts star Shannon Wiratchai. Corminal now aims for redemption, as he takes on Arnaud LePont in his second appearance in the promotion.

Yang “The Pugilist” Fei of Hubei, China, is a newcomer to ONE Championship, and one of the most promising young Chinese martial arts talents in the game. He sports a professional record of two victories and only one defeat, with both of his wins coming by finish. Making his promotional debut, Yang will seek victory against Waqar Umar in a three-round preliminary bout.

27-year-old Waqar Umar of Pakistan is a ONE Championship featherweight with a 4-4 professional record. All four of his victories have come by submission, made possible by his well-established grappling skills. Inside the ONE Championship cage, he’s faced the likes of Peter Davis, Amir Khan, and Benedict Ang. In his most recent contest, Umar took on rising star Keanu Subba in Malaysia. Umar now returns to take on Chinese competitor Yang Fei.

Tiffany “Soul Crusher” Teo is a female martial artist who competes in ONE Championship’s women’s flyweight division. She holds an unblemished professional record of six wins and no losses, including two submissions and two knockouts. Born in Brunei and raised in Singapore, Teo began training in taekwondo before moving on to compete in boxing and Muay Thai and eventually transitioning to the ONE Championship cage. In her last bout, Teo impressed with a thorough decision victory over Rebecca Heintzman. Teo’s next assignment is against Pooja Tomar.

Flyweight competitor Pooja Tomar is a martial artist from India with a professional record of three wins and one loss. With a penchant for showcasing her solid striking skills, Tomar has recorded all three of her victories by knockout. Competing largely in her home country of India, Tomar now makes her way to the biggest stage in Asian martial arts as she is set to make her ONE Championship debut against top Singaporean talent Tiffany Teo.

Chinese bantamweight prospect Miao Li Tao and Cambodian Khun Khmer practitioner Sim Bunsrun are set to kick off all the action at ONE: IMMORTAL PURSUIT in the evening’s first bout offering. The two strikers will lock horns in an exciting three-round contest, setting the pace of what should be an amazing night of martial arts competition.

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 sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, ONE Championship is the home of martial arts. 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 billion potential viewers across 128+ 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.

PARK CITY, KANSAS (October 23, 2017) – 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez will be fighting for his first professional title on Saturday, December 2, when he takes on Hungarian invader Jozsef “Little Red” Ajtai in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Flyweight Championship, headlining “KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” at Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

“KO Night Boxing: Gold & Glory” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC., in association with Hartman Arena, and sponsored in part by Twister City Harley-Davidson Metro PCS, Mort’s Cigar Bar and Jimmy Egg.

The action will be taped live for future airing on CBS Sports Network.

The 21-year-old Hernandez (3-0, 2 KOs), fighting out of Wichita, will be fighting in a scheduled eight-round bout for the first time. His three pro fights to date were all scheduled for six rounds and each was held in Kansas, the last two in his second home, Hartman Arena.

In his last fight this past September 23rd, Hernandez was forced to fight late replacement Kendrick “Uprising” Latchman who outweighed the celebrated American Olympian by more than 10 pounds. Hernandez won a six-round unanimous decision by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice.

Despite being younger than Hernandez by almost a year to the day, Ajtai (19-9, 12 KOs) has already had 28 pro fights, including a full 10-round distance loss by decision last year to two-time Olympic gold medalist Shiming Zou, the former World Boxing Organization (WBO) flyweight world champion.

“By far, Nico is fighting the toughest opponent of his pro career,” Hernandez’ promoter John Andersen (“KO Night Boxing LLC) said. “Ajtai has much more experience as a pro than Nico, plus he went the distance against a two-time Olympic gold medalist, Zou. Ajtai is a busy fighter with a good knockout ratio (63%). This fight is going to tell us a lot about Nico, especially his power at 112 pounds.

“Nico fighting for a title in only his fourth pro fight proves that all our hard efforts of KO Night Boxing and Team Nico has paid off quickly and we’re grateful that the IBA has given him this great opportunity. I didn’t realize the high quality of champions the IBA has had in the past and we’re proud that Nico can someday join this group. In the flyweight division, Nico may enter world title fight shot discussions earlier than I had originally thought, which was in his third year as a pro. An impressive performance against Ajtai could position him for a world title fight next year with less than 10 fights under his belt.”

“We’re excited to have an American Olympian fighting for our first Americas title,” IBA President J.C. Courreges added. “Nico Hernandez is an Olympic bronze medalist and we’re hopeful that he will develop into an IBA world champion in the not too distant future. His amateur pedigree speaks for itself and we’re very happy to have this young man fighting for the IBA Americas title.”

IBA world champions during the past quarter-century include 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.

Other fights on the “Gold & Glory” card will soon be announced. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow (Tuesday, Oct. 24 @ 12 p.m. CT) at the Hartman Arena box office and http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/50551?Brand=Hartman. Prices are $115.00 (VIP), $75.00, $50.00, $35.00, $25.00 and $20.00 (prices do not include service fees) .

This is an all-ages show. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT with the opening bout scheduled at 6:00 p.m. CT.

INFORMATION:

https://www.hartmanarena.com/events/upcoming-events/1.html, www.internationalboxingassociation.com

Twitter: @KONightBoxing, @IBABoxing

Facebook: /NeonStar, /IBABoxing

Follow @Nicomhernandez on Twitter and Instagram
About Neon Star Sports & Entertainment (NSSE)
NSSE is a content company whose focus is creating original and joint venter media properties – unscripted, scripted, events and digital programming – for cross-platform distribution. Visit us on Twitter @NeonstarSE or Facebook www.facebook.com/NeonStarSE. KO Night Boxing, LLC, is a subsidiary company of Neon Star Sports & Entertainment Inc.

About Hartman Arena
Hartman Arena, with a total seating capacity of 6,750, is the home to great live entertainment, indoor sports and community events, and is managed by VenuWorks, America’s emerging leader in venue management.

About VenuWorks
VenuWorks is a leader in venue management, providing customized solutions for multi-purpose sports, entertainment and recreation facilities, theatres and conference and convention centers throughout the country, offering full service management services including operations, event booking and marketing. VenuWorks is headquartered in Ames, IA and was founded in 1996. For more information, please visit www.venuworks.com.

Unified and undefeated heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua spoke to members of the media on a SHOWTIME-hosted conference call to discuss his upcoming title defense against IBF mandatory challenger Carlos Takam. The fight will be televised LIVE on SHOWTIME at 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT from Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.

The British sensation Joshua (19-0, 19 KOs) and Takam (35-3-1, 27 KOs) will meet in front of what is expected to be more than 70,000 boxing at Welsh’s national stadium.

Here is what Joshua had to say on the call:

ANTHONY JOSHUA:

“We’re back again October 28 against Carlos Takam. I could say a million things about Takam because I’m studying him. At the end of the day, there’s two things that I’m focusing on. One is that it’s just like another fight and the second is winning. Then we can all move on to see what 2018 holds. I’m sure that’s going to be a promising year.”

On his viewpoint of how he felt when opponent was changed from Kubrat Pulev to Carlos Takam:

“I was a bit baffled. You know how it is when you’re a fighter, you say ‘I’m going to fight with one arm, one eye, one leg.’ I didn’t expect him to stand down the opportunity but I do understand that he wanted to be 100 percent. Nowadays, there’s a lot of science to the sport so he probably had to get advice from his doctors, so I get it. But it’s a shame because there was just something about Pulev and wanting to outclass him. My mindset with Takam…I don’t know. He’s veteran where you take a lot to give a lot. It’s just switching up my mindset about the style of fight I’m going to engage in now. That was the main disappointment.”

On his thoughts about some point fighting in the U.S.:

“I’m excited. I’m very excited. I would love to fight the great champions that the United States has produced. At the same time, I’ll fight anywhere. I’m fine staying in the UK, but America’s definitely at the top of the pyramid for sure. The thing is, before I wanted to go out there for the experience but now I want to go out there and make me some money. For what fight, that’s what’s going to be interesting.”

On if he foresees a showdown with Deontay Wilder in 2018:

“Anytime. I think so. I think he’s what the division needs and I think this is what Wilder needs, so we’ll give it to them. I say it’s definitely a potential for 2018. What else am I going to do in 2018 provided that I don’t have any mandatories? I’ll be a free agent. If dealt with right with Eddie Hearn and the U.S., I think it could be built to be something just like the Klitschko fight. It should be better.”

On if he foresees the Wilder fight being in the U.S.:

“I think so. I could tell you a million things but the reason I’m saying that is because I do have some real professional people in the background advising me as well. I can see it happening in the U.S. If you came to Wembley on April 29, you saw what that was like. It was phenomenal. That was really good. So do we want to create that again or should we go overseas and do something new? It’s good to have options.”

On the timeline of events and mindset after Takam was announced as the replacement for Pulev:

“There was no doubt in my mind that I would still fight. If Eddie had opponents lined up, I was definitely still going to fight. There was no point in my mind where I thought that I’m not going to compete or didn’t know what I was going to do. A real bonus is that I always work on myself in the gym so I haven’t had like 100 Pulev clones coming to the gym. I haven’t been working just solely on the style to defeat Pulev. I’ve been working on improving on my weaknesses and building on my strengths. So, when I heard I wasn’t going to be fighting him and that the next guy in line was Takam, it was like OK, cool, because I’ve still been developing myself anyways.

“You could put me with anyone. What I’ve worked on in the gym and what I’ve built myself two of these last three months, I should be able to fight anyone. I’m just happy that I don’t have to wait because it probably would have been March or April. That would have been a year out of the ring. I don’t think now is the time to be taking that much time out so I’m really grateful that the show could still go on.”

On if from a fighter’s perspective there’s financial pressure involved in whether or not the show should go on regardless of the replacement:

“No. When I look at Pulev. He was getting the pay day. He had to make the decision. From a fighter’s point of view, you have to put the fighter first. From a second point of view, I don’t want to take the opportunity from a lot of my friends on the undercard because they’re not going to make their money. Then you’ve got to think of the fans as well because there’s so many people that book hotels, travel, time off work. Before I think of myself, I think of all these other people that have come out to have a good time and are dependent on me. So that’s why I said I’m really happy that the show could go on, not just for me. A lot of people would have lost out that night.”

On his reaction to Deontay Wilder claiming nobody wants to fight him after Luis Ortiz pulled out:

“[Laughing] When I heard Pulev pulled out, I was going to do the same thing. I thought that’s what the champions are doing these days. I find it funny. It’s like Twitter fingers now. Like doing your business behind closed doors. Ortiz failed a drug test, so be it, move onto the next one. Ortiz comes off his ban and you box him then. No need to cry about it and say that nobody wants to fight you. Of course we want to fight you, you’re the champion. You’re the hunted. He just needs to start thinking that way and stop feeling sorry for himself. Just keep quiet and don’t show any weakness in this game. This is heavyweight boxing. This ain’t featherweight boxing.”

On why he thinks Deontay Wilder needs a potential heavyweight showdown more than he does:

“I fought Jason Gavern in maybe my 12th fight. Deontay Wilder is fighting in his 34th fight maybe his 35th fight. Where I’m coming from is that in a career, it’s all good going undefeated and looking good. But when it’s all said and done, how are people going to remember you? He hasn’t had any memorable fights. He needs a real remarkable fight to stamp his name in the history books of heavyweight boxing. He needs that more right now. Especially being in America. This is the mecca of boxing. I even need it. I need Wilder to have a remarkable fight. I need to be the one that steps up to make this dream a reality. I would be honored to go out there and compete with Wilder.”

On what he’s learned from almost being defeated by Klitschko:

“Now when I watch boxing, I watch it completely different. When you watch a George Foreman and Ron Lyle kind of fight or an Ali and Foreman fight where a bit of their soul and spirit disappears, I always wondered how they were doing it and how they were taking those shots. You always question how, why, and what makes people do what they do. Until I went through it, I would always watch boxing but now I don’t just watch it, I understand it. I know the thing that you can’t be taught is how to survive in the trenches. I just feel like my heart is very big and I wear it on my sleeve in this sport.

“It’s just that mindset. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to win, that’s one thing. I just realized as well what the division needs because I think the masses of people can relate to a boxer’s life. It’s labor, you’re up early, working, you’re resting and providing for your family. There’s also the glitz and glamor of getting money but that disconnects from so many people. The wealthy people are one percent of the world, so people just want to see you fight. They want to see you go to war. That’s another thing I’ve learned…what people want and desire for in this sport to kind of bring the attention back to boxing. I don’t just do it, I don’t just watch it, I really understand it. I know what to do to deliver.”

On if he thinks he’s the biggest attraction in boxing and comfortable with shouldering that responsibility:

“I’m going to keep it humble because there’s still people in this sport that I look up to. I love Kovalev, I love Alexander Ustinov. From a talent perspective, I don’t know if I’m as talented, but I hustle the smartest. I work the hardest. You can’t deny that. We’re all carrying this weight. Even promoters are carrying this weight it’s not just me. We all have different attributes.”

On the challenges Takam presents as compared to Pulev:

“To have a style like Takam’s, not a lot of people have long careers. He just eats up a little bit of ground each round. He could throw a jab, right hand to the head, left hook, right hook and be looking good and all of a sudden, everything he’s doing wasn’t working because the person you’re fighting is still coming. So, I think by round six, seven or eight he starts applying pressure because he’s got that type of fighter with the ‘I’m going to absorb and measure everything you do’ mindset which is a dangerous style.

“I’ve fought Breazeale, Molina, and Klitschko and for Kubrat Pulev I’ve focused on a lot of taller fighters. They say Carlos Takam fights at 6-foot-2, but he probably fights at 6-foot bent down and crouched over. All in all, what goes down in the history books is whether I win or lose. I just got to do whatever I got to do to get this win. Because it’s really important for me and the sport of boxing because it sets up several fights in the future.”

On if the fight with Takam is tougher than what Pulev would have presented:

“I think he’s tougher and can take more but I don’t think he’s smarter for that reason. What’s going to be tougher…the smarter fighter who’s going to make me think more or the guy who’s going to make me run? That’s what’s going to be interesting. I think I definitely might see him in the future.”

On being compared to Lennox Lewis:

“It’s an honor at this stage. I’m going to do some research and see where Lennox was at in terms of career building going into his 20th fight. I feel like Lennox is definitely someone I can learn from. If you gave me a list of boxers I could learn from, I would put Lennox in my top 10, 100 percent. If I can perfect that jab. This is what we’re doing, this is the journey we’re on. It’s interesting because either you’re the next Lennox or the next Tyson or you’re nobody in boxing. It’s a tough sport so if I can be compared to these legends of the game, we’re definitely moving in the right direction. I’m not here calling myself the next Lennox. This is what I’m hearing. But we’re moving in the right direction.

On if he’s spent any time around Lennox Lewis and if he’s made any comments on his career:

“I was around Lennox when I was trying to make the decision about turning professional. Lennox gave me advice more about career building. So I went through Matchroom, who’s done that for a long time. After that, I kind of locked myself away and have just been focusing on my fight game. If there’s any advice I could take from Lennox it would be for my fight game because I do need to develop skills for sure.”

On if there’s a timetable to unify the title and if so does Deontay Wilder need to have a great fight to build the hype:

“There’s no time scale. You kind of just roll with the punches. We were fighting for the British title and then the Charles Martin opportunity presented itself. Then the Klitschko fight presented itself. And now we have a mandatory and you have to take that so we’re rolling with the punches, but there’s opportunities above him in the background. Deontay Wilder doesn’t need a better performance to compete. He’s a heavyweight, he’s a champion. He’s winning and that speaks enough. We have to give credit where credit is due so if that’s the case, that will definitely be respected for sure.”

On if Deontay Wilder is a priority:

“That guy’s been a professional since 2009. I started boxing in 2008. He’s been a professional a year longer than I’ve been boxing my whole career. He needs these fights. It’s a different ballgame. The only thing that’s given me credibility is the fact that I’ve gone and unified the division. He doesn’t need to have a remarkable performance or fight any household name because he’s been doing this for so long.

“I think the reason why he’s more desperate is because boxing writers have called him out. Who’s the next person on the list? Attach your name to the best brand in the business and people will listen so he’s just calling me out because he knows I’m the hot take in the business right now. He’s just doing what any businessman would do. I look at my situation and say after this Takam situation, what does the WBA say about a mandatory situation? Only God knows what could happen with my situation. I always look at it from a realistic point of view.

“I’ll fight Wilder next year and make it a priority 100 percent. There’s no doubt about that. But I’m going to be real and say these are the reasons why he’s probably doing what he’s doing. It could potentially happen but maybe not the next fight I have because of certain mandatories. Or do I just say I’m going to give up my belt because it’s what he wants or what I want? We have to make a careful decision in the making of this fight.”

EDDIE HEARN, Joshua’s Promotor, Matchroom Boxing

“We’re just over a week away from another huge event as Stephen [Espinoza] said. Seventy-five thousand people at the biggest indoor boxing event in Europe of all time. It’s going to be an incredible atmosphere and just a wonderful night of boxing. I think with Floyd’s [Mayweather] departure from the sport, he is unquestionably the biggest star in the world of boxing. The amount of interest in him has been incredible. We will of course thank SHOWTIME after the sixth episode of Anthony Joshua’s world championship career. Thank you to Stephen and all the guys at SHOWTIME and their effort. It’s extremely valued for myself and Anthony. And for the fight next week, Carlos Takam replaces Pulev. Anthony’s been training for a 6-foot-5, full-ranging awkward guy and now we have a 6-foot-2 little guy who’s going to come at you non-stop. Jabbing, punching, overhand right, hook, relentless pressure. He’s going to come across Anthony Joshua looking absolutely the best he’s ever looked in camp. We can’t wait for a wonderful show.”

On his desires to bring Anthony Joshua to the U.S. to defend the heavyweight title:

“He’s definitely on the radar. Like Anthony said, it’s definitely part of the scrapbook to be produced in the years to come. If you want to try and change the game and break down boundaries, that includes America, Africa and the Middle East as well. It’s hard to leave the UK with 75,000 to 90,000 people compared to what the U.S. is. But Anthony Joshua is a global brand. He’s not British heavyweight champion, he’s a world heavyweight champion. The key now is to get the win on October 28 and then in the weeks that follow, put our plans together for 2019 and hopefully America is included in that.”

On if working with Danny Jacobs changes his work with Joshua and if he anticipates Joshua staying on SHOWTIME despite Deontay Wilder’s connection to the network:

“Absolutely. We appreciate the way they’re building Anthony Joshua’s brand. Matchroom Boxing is one business and Anthony Joshua is another business. Anthony has involvement in our U.S. business as well. Ultimately, this is the channel that he fights on. He’s not dependent on Matchroom Boxing USA. We’ll do the right thing for Anthony.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

“This will be the fifth Anthony Joshua fight that will be telecast on SHOWTIME here in the states. We’re very proud of our association with A.J. and with Matchroom and it is part of giving fans the biggest fights and the best fighters. A.J. definitely fits that criteria. He is without a doubt the consensus No. 1 heavyweight in the world. We last saw him in April in a thrilling, career-defining fight and knockout of Wladimir Klitschko in front of a record crowd of 90,000 people. That fight was broadcast in over 150 countries, including live in the U.S. on SHOWTIME. On Oct. 28 we expect another spectacle of similar scale. He’s got an experienced challenger and we expect a rabid crowd of 70,000 and we are proud to bring it you on SHOWTIME starting live at 5 p.m. Eastern and 2 p.m. Pacific.

LAS VEGAS (October 23, 2017) – Former world champion Ishe Smith battles top 154-pound contender Julian “J-Rock” Williams in a 10-round super welterweight clash that headlines Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce live from The Chelsea inside The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on Saturday, November 18.

In the co-feature, Lionell Thompson clashes with unbeaten prospect Earl Newman in a 10-round light heavyweight bout. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten prospects Tugstsogt Nyambayar and Xavier Martinez going head-to-head in a 10-round featherweight fight.

“This card is going to bring it,” said Mayweather Promotions CEO Leonard Ellerbe. “The fans will be presented with variety; veterans and prospects going head-to-head and tough fighting styles meshing come fight night. The main event between Ishe Smith and Julian Williams is going to be an exciting battle! I think Ishe and Julian are going to put on a great show. Both fighters are very tough competitors and fight with everything they have. We also have a great undercard line-up. This is going to be an all-around exciting night of boxing for the fans.”

“This is the kind of show that presents something for every boxing fan,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Ishe Smith is a former champion who still has title aspirations. He’s going up against a young hungry contender on the comeback trail in Julian Williams. Earl Newman will be taking a major step up when he takes on Lionell Thompson in the co-feature and both Tugstsogt Nyambayar and Xavier Martinez will be looking to keep their undefeated records intact. It all adds up to a fun night for boxing fans.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and TGB Promotions, are priced at $29, $39, $59, $69, $89 and $149 and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com or through Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000 andwww.ticketmaster.com.

The 39-year-old Smith (29-8, 12 KOs) won his world championship with a majority decision over Cornelius Bundrage on Feb. 23, 2013 to become the first Las Vegas-native to win a world title. He has also challenged top fighters such as Erislandy Lara and Daniel Jacobs and most recently defeated Tommy Rainone and Frank Galarza in his last two bouts.

“I took this fight just like I’ve taken every tough fight over the years,” said Smith. “I constantly challenge myself to the best and I believe Julian Williams is one of the best in the division. If you look at my resume, all I’ve done is fight the best guys, in their prime, so this is nothing new to me. I’ve reached the point where I’ve seen it all. This fight will get me exactly where I need to be, closer to a world title shot.”

Williams (23-1-1, 15 KOs), one of the top young contenders in the 154-pound division, is working his way back into title contention by taking on a tough former world champion in Smith. The 27-year-old Williams of Philadelphia suffered a KO loss to Jermall Charlo in his first title shot in 2016 and returned to the ring with a TKO victory over Joshua Conley in his last fight on June 30.

“We’ve been working hard for months and I’m ready to get back in the ring,” said Williams. “I could fight tomorrow. I know this is an important fight for my career. Ishe is a veteran and he is going to bring his ‘A’ game to try to prove he’s still got it. I’m not going to give him that opportunity. I will be victorious and show that I’m ready to fight the best in the world.”

Lionell Thompson (18-4, 11 KOs) is on the trail of a 175-pound world championship and he hasn’t taken the easy road, having challenge the likes of Sergey Kovalev and Radivoje Kalajdzic in his pro career. The 32-year-old out of Buffalo, N.Y. is coming off a knockout victory over Steve Lovett in his last fight on Feb. 24. The last time he fought at the Cosmopolitan, he defeated Donovan George by unanimous decision on Sept. 16, 2016.

Unbeaten prospect Earl Newman (10-0-1, 7 KOs) will be taking a big step forward in taking on his toughest competition to date in Thompson. The 26-year-old Brooklyn-native is coming off a split draw against Paul Parker on Sept. 19 after winning his first 10 pro fights.

A 2012 Olympic Silver medalist from Mongoloa, Tugstsogt Nyambayar (8-0, 8 KOs) now fights out of Carson, California. The 25-year-old turned pro in March of 2015 with a first round knockout of Gabriel Braxton. Since then, Nyambayar has stopped every opponent in his path, including most recently scoring a 10th round TKO over Jhon Gemino in February.

The unbeaten 19-year-old prospect Xavier Martinez (9-0, 5 KOs) will face his toughest test as a pro when he enters the ring on November 18. Representing Sacramento, Martinez has scored two victories in 2017 having stopped Jesus Aguinaga in September after earning a decision over then unbeaten Prince Smalls in June.

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Premier Boxing Champions on Bounce will be available to be streamed live via Bounce’s new subscription-video-on-demand service Brown Sugar, which features an extensive and one-of-a-kind library of iconic black movies as well as Bounce original programming and series. Brown Sugar is available on Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Channels, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Kindle, Android and Apple smartphones and tablets and web browsers via BrownSugar.com. Brown Sugar also has Google Chromecast capabilities which allow video to play on televisions directly from mobile devices and tablets for consumers with Android and iOS devices. There is a free initial trial period for subscribers with a retail price of $3.99/month thereafter.

For more information visit: www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.mayweatherpromotions.com follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @BounceTV, @MayweatherPromo, @TGBPromotions and @Swanson_Comm , become a fan on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/BounceTV. Follow the conversation using #PBConBounce. PBC on Bounce is sponsored by Corona: La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Bounce is the fastest-growing African-American (AA) network on television and airs on the broadcast signals of local television stations and corresponding cable carriage. The network features a programming mix of original and off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and more. Bounce has grown to be available in more than 94 million homes across the United States and 93% of all African American television homes, including all of the top AA television markets. Among the founders of Bounce are iconic American figures Martin Luther King, III and Ambassador Andrew Young.

For local channel location, visit BounceTV.com.

ORANGE, Calif. (Oct. 23, 2017) – The “Path to Glory” main event was over before it had a chance to begin. In the second round, an accidental clash of heads between super bantamweights Isaac Zarate (13-3-3, 2 KOs) and Christian Esquivel (29-12-1, 22 KOs) played the part of spoiler.

Zarate, a southpaw, bumped heads with Esquivel more than half way through the second round and created a nasty gash above Esquivel’s right eye. The ringside physician ruled him unable to continue, officially declaring the bout a technical draw at the 2:18 mark.

It was an unfortunate turn of events, as both boxers prior to the stoppage engaged in a thrilling back and forth display that had the crowd amped.

“We were going after it just before it happened,” Zarate said. “The fans were going to get a great fight. The crowd understood what happened though. They weren’t too upset about it.”

In the co-feature, junior welterweight Mohammed Rodgriguez (11-4, 4 KOs) of Mexico survived an eighth round knockdown to win by split decision against Colombian Cesar Villarraga (9-4-1, 4 KOs).

Rodriguez, who had a distinct size and reach advantage, appeared to control the early rounds with Villarraga coming on strong down the stretch. Indeed, the routine action produced a fan friendly fight, but one that was difficult to score.

Rodriguez excelled with his right hand, while Villarraga scored with his counter punching ability. In the eighth round, Villarraga landed a counter left uppercut that downed Rodriguez. In the end, it was too little too late as Rodriguez earned the win with scores 76-75 twice, while one judge had it for Villarraga, 78-73.

Bantamweight Saul Sanchez (6-0, 4 KOs) of Indio, Calif., looked every bit like a top prospect after his brutal, one-punch knockout of Nestor Ramos (7-7-1, 3 KOs) of Mexico.

Sanchez, trained by Joel Diaz, landed a crushing left hook to the midsection that left Ramos rolling on the canvas in agony. Referee Jerry Cantu waived off the fight at the 2:06 mark of the opening round.

Bantamweight Daniel Guzman (2-1, 1 KO) of Los Angeles overwhelmed Mexico’s Jose Mora (1-5) to win by second round knockout. Guzman came out hungry from the outset, landing strong body shots and showcasing excellent side-to-side movement.

A left hook to the body dropped Mora halfway through the second round and an equally punishing left ended his night at the 2:32 mark.

Napa’s Brandon Trejo (3-0, 1 KO) notched his first knockout victory over the still winless Carlos Apodaca (0-6-1) in the “Path to Glory” show opener. Trejo, a lightweight, advanced on Apodaca behind an accurate left jab and timely body punching.

By the third round, Trejo had Apodaca worn out and quickly closed the deal with his steady attack at the 1:21 mark.

Thompson Boxing Promotions returns for its final show of the year from the Doubletree Ontario on Friday, Nov. 17. Full details will be announced at a later date.

“Path to Glory” was presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Lucas Oil, in association with Everlast.

Photos by: Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing Promotions

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.

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

Kal Yafai says he will send out a statement to the Super-Flyweight division that he’s coming for all the belts when he defends his crown against unbeaten mandatory challenger Sho Ishida at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday (October 28) live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Yafai puts the strap on the line for the second time and against a second opponent from the land of the rising sun having been taken 12 rounds by the gritty Suguru Muranaka in May.

The unbeaten Birmingham star now travels to Wales to put the belt on the line against Ishida, the tall 25 year old fighting outside his homeland for the first time. Yafai expects another tough contest but with bumper bills in the division on the cards in 2018, the 28 year old says he’s ready to dazzle and prove he can head Stateside and dominate the weight-class.

“I know what I’m up against and have to do on Saturday,” said Yafai. “I try not to think about possible big fights in America at this stage. I know they are within touching distance but I have a job to do beforehand which is my obvious priority.

“HBO have invested in the Super-Fly’s and look set to continuing doing so. I’ve always wanted to fight in America. I’m potentially just one fight away from doing so now. I live the life and I’ll be doing everything in my power I retain my title.

“I’m excited to fight on such a huge card and show my skills. I can’t wait now, I’ve put a lot of work into my training as always. I’ve been training for about 12 weeks now.

“Camp has gone great, we’ve had some quality work. It’s been gym, eat, sleep and repeat so we’re fully focused on the job at hand. We had Stuart Hall in at the start for his height and Andrew Selby a few times.

“I’ve watched quite a bit of Ishida and he’s a good fighter. I think he’ll look to box off the back foot. I think he’ll look to use his height and reach to try and keep me at bay. He’ll be cagey early on I think though I expect to find my range quickly.

“Despite the height, I’ve just trained as normal. There’s nothing too out of the ordinary we have implemented for this. I think possibly the height angle has been over talked in the build-up. Once we get in there, he’ll see I’m pretty good at taking a fighter’s strength away from them.

“Every fighter will react differently to the big event atmosphere. Look at my last opponent, he was loving it.

“Muranaka was very tough but I was glad the way it went. It was solid rounds in the bank. I think I could have varied my punches and combinations but it was twelve good rounds in. I learnt a lot from it.

“It was a bit surprising to me that Rungvisai done the double over Gonzalez. It was a great show, hopefully I’ll deal with Ishida and then get involved in the next Super-Fly card.

“I think Jerwin Ancajas will beat Jamie Conlan pretty comfortably. I don’t think it’s a very tough task for him at all to be honest. Conlan drags himself into these wars against limited opposition which doesn’t bode too well.

“I’m looking to put on a very skilled and composed, aggressive performance with a lot of speed and hopefully a knockout!”

Yafai’s clash with Ishida is part of a huge night of action in Cardiff as Anthony Joshua MBE defends his World Heavyweight titles against Carlos Takam, and there’s a third World title bout with Katie Taylor chasing her first pro World honours against WBA World Lightweight champion Anahi Sanchez.

There’s a mouth-watering British and Commonwealth Light-Heavyweight battle between Frank Buglioni, Lenroy Thomas and Dave Allen rematch for the Commonwealth Heavyweight title and Team GB Olympian and Welsh talent Joe Cordina appears in his fifth pro outing.

A limited number of tickets remain on sale via www.StubHub.co.uk.

Accessibility, ambulant and wheelchair tickets – please contact the Principality stadium via 02920 822432 – also on sale from midday Tuesday.

Official hospitality packages are available to purchase directly from Principality Stadium Experience. Both private suite and premium lounge packages are available to purchase, with prices starting from £450 per person + VAT. For further information please call the team on 02920 822 413.

Official Travel & Hospitality packages are also available via Sportsworld via www.sportsworld.co.uk or by calling 0208 9712966

Please ensure you plan your travel into the city before purchasing your tickets and allow plenty of time for additional security checks at the venue – please visit http://www.principalitystadium.wales/events/v/joshua-v-pulev-2017-10-28 to view the travel page for the event.

Verona, NY (OCT. 21 2017) -Two-Time undefeated world champion Demetrius Andrade made a successful debut as a middleweight by winning a dominant 12-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Alantez Fox at The Turning Stone Resort Casino.

The bout was the co-feature bout of an HBO Boxing After Dark® tripleheader

In round one, Andrade rocked Fox with a blistering straight left hand. Fox was wobbled badly, and Andrade jumped on Fox. After landing several hard follow up shots, Fox was able to hold on and get out of the first frame. Andrade was dominant as he continued to land swift combinations at will. That opening flurry caused Fox to engage very sporadically during the fight

In round seven, Fox was awarded a dubious knockdown when Andrade slipped on the wet canvas. Television replays showed that Fox did not even land a punch during that exchange.

That was the only blemish for Andrade, as he controlled the action by using his superior skills on both the inside and landing crisp and sharp punches on the outside and he cruised home to the victory. Compubox punch stats showed the dominance of Andrade as he outlanded Fox 158-52 over the 12-round bout with Andrade winning the power shots by a 132-29 margin.

Those stats were evident in the scoring as Andrade of Providence, Rhode Island won by scores of 118-110, 118-109, and 116-111 to push his perfect mark to 25-0.

Fox loses for the first time, and the native of Forestville, Maryland is now 23-1-1.

ANDRADE QUOTES

“I did what I had to do in there. I think I did very well, but I will look at the fight and then give myself a grade after that,” said Andrade.

“I did everything I needed to do. It was a great experience to go 12 rounds at this weight. Fox is a tough kid, and after I hurt him early in the first round, he recovered well. He wasn’t sloppy and he knew how to survive, so that is why I did not finish him.”

“I took my time and I needed the 12 rounds. I knew I could hurt him and had the pop to do it.”

“I will go back and work on putting a little more pop on my punches and I feel that I can do a lot of damage.”

“He was a big test. Nobody would step up and face him, and I did. This is why I am the best, because I am willing to face anybody. Fox is a good fighter and he will do damage down the line, but like I told everybody before the fight, Look out It’s me again!.”

In non-televised action, Ruben Villa remained perfect by winning a six-round unanimous decision over German Meraz in a featherweight bout.

Villa controlled the action against the 100 fight veteran Meraz. Villa won by shutout margins on all cards by the scores of 60-54 which made Villa of Salinas, California raise his mark to 9-0. Meraz of Agua, Prieta, Mexico is 54-45-1.

The card opened up with Michael Dutchover beating down and eventually stopping Anthony De Jesus Ruiz in round four of their six-round lightweight bout.

Dutchover landed heavy blows throughout the contest and had Ruiz in trouble several times before the bout was stopped at 2:42 of round four.
Dutchover of Santa Fe Springs, California via Midland, Texas is now 7-0 with five knockouts. Ruiz of San Luis Potosi, Mexico is now 2-4.

The Andrade – Fox bout was promoted by Banner Promotions, Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and A-Team Promotions, in association with DiBella Entertainment.

The Villa – Meraz & Dutchover – Ruiz fights were promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

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

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

Host of the October 21st event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is an award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year level boxing. The October event will mark Turning Stone’s 23rd nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a leading destination for nationally-televised combat sports. Turning Stone is celebrated for its noteworthy boxing events such as boxing legend Mike Tyson selecting the resort as the venue for his world debut as a promoter, Muhammad Ali’s daughter Laila Ali made her boxing debut at Turning Stone and in April 2015, Turning Stone was selected to host “Fight of the Year” contender – Matthysse vs. Provodnivkov – over arenas in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Miami. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including four hotels, more than 20 signature restaurants and dining options, two spas, an all-new 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, a cabaret-style Showroom, a 5,000 seat arena, five golf courses, several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues with live entertainment every weekend.

Tickets for this highly anticipated matchup are on sale now and available for $65 for ringside seats and others priced at $25, $30, $40 and $49, plus any applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office, by calling 315-361-7469 or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

Corrales vs. Machado is a 12-round fight for the WBA Super World Super Featherweight Championship, to be held Saturday, October 21 at the Turning Stone in Verona, New York. The main event is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cotto Promotions. The event is sponsored by TECATE, THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING, Casa Mexico Tequila, and Thor: Ragnarok, and will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT.

Professional media requesting credentials for Corrales vs. Machado must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at kelly.abdo@turningstone.com.

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

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.hbo.com/boxing, and www.turningstone.com follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @HBOboxing @TurningStone; and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/hboboxing, and www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort and visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing and @TurningStone. Follow the conversation using #CorralesMachado

MACON, GA (October 22, 2017) – The Montgomery Brothers, Maliek, Mikhail, and Michael Jr, who are guided by Witness Sports Management’s Greg Hannely and Jared Shaw, all scored knockout victories last night at the Shrine Temple, in Macon, Georgia, their hometown.

Maliek Montgomery (2-0, 2 KOs) dominated Calvin Smith (2-12), winning by 3rd round TKO. Mikhail Montgomery (1-0 1 KO), destroyed Tony Jones, scoring an impressive 2nd round TKO. Michael Montgomery Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) defeated Edwin Aceves (0-2) with a 3rd TKO.

“It was great fighting in our hometown and getting a knockout was exactly what I wanted to do.” said Maliek Montgomery. “My career is off to a great start and I look forward to getting right back in the ring.”

“I wanted to make a statement in my pro debut,” stated Mikhail Montgomery. “Getting a first round knockout lets me know I have some power. I still have a long way to go, but I’m confident in my quest to make a name for myself. It’s rare that we have professional boxing shows in Macon, so I’m glad I was able to fight in front of my family and friends.”

“My younger brothers and I wanted to come out and show our hometown fans that we are the future of boxing.” Michael Montgomery Jr. said “We all have that power the fans want to see. I’m happy that I got another knockout to start my career.”

“My sons showed up in our hometown,” said Michael Montgomery Sr.” I’m always pushing my boys to go the extra mile in the gym and the hard work is paying off. They showed they have the power to stop their opponents. On Monday we’ll be right back in the gym.”

“I’m extremely happy that all three Montgomery brothers were able to stop their opponents,” said Greg Hannely. “Their father, Michael Montgomery Sr., is doing a great job training his boys. They all have exciting styles that fans want to see. Jared and I will be looking to get them back in the ring before the end of the year.”

“When we signed the Montgomery brothers, I knew they were going to be crowd pleasing fighters,” said co-manager Jared Shaw. “There is nothing boring about all three brothers. Boxing needs fighters like the Montgomery brothers, action type fighters that will always put on a great show.”

SAN FRANCISCO, CA (October 22, 2017) – Last night at the historic San Francisco Armory, the “Back to Business” card took place with local fighters, Karim Mayfield, Raquel Miller and Xavier Martinez moving forward with victories.

Karim “Hard Hitta” Mayfield (20-4-1, 11 KOs), cruised to a 6-round unanimous decision over outmatched Miguel Dumas (10-0, 7 KOs), giving him his first defeat. With the win, Mayfield captures he the WBU Welterweight Americas Belt. Scorecards read 60-54 twice, and 55-54.

Middleweight, Raquel “Pretty Beast” Miller (5-0, 3 KOs) remained undefeated with a 1st round knockout against Lisa Garland (15-9, 8 KOs). Time was 2:00 of round one.

Xavier Martinez (10-0, 5 KOs) stayed unbeaten winning by 2nd round knockout over Raymond Chacon (7-27-1) in a 6-round featherweight bout. Time was 2:59

Ricardo Pinell (15-3-1, 8 KOs) won a lopsided unanimous decision against Carlos Ruiz (8-4, 3 KO) in a 6-round middleweight bout. Score cards read 60-54 across the board.

Will Shaw (3-0, 3 KOs) defeated Lenard Davis (1-0-3) with a 2nd round TKO in a scheduled 4-round super lightweight bout. Time was .50 of round two.

Verona, NY (OCT. 21 2017) -Below is some of the media coverage for tonight’s 12-round middleweight bout between undefeated two-time world champion Demetrius Andrade and undefeated Alantez Fox. That bout will be part of an HBO Boxing After Dark® from the Turning Stone Resort Casino beginning at 10:05 ET/PT.

Dan Rafael, ESPN.com, Demetrius Andrade ready to rise to the top of a new weight class

Steve Kim, UCNlive.com: Demetrius Andrade moves up to middleweight

Steve Kim: Boxingscene.com: Demetrius Andrade: Golovkin Beat Canelo – I Want GGG Next!

Keith Idec: Boxingscene.com: Fox: They Think I’m a Chump; I’ll Show I Belong Against Andrade

Keith Idec: Boxingscene.com: Demetrius Andrade: Fox Was The Only Guy Willing To Fight Me!

HBO Boxing: Andrade – Fox Preview
HBO Boxing: Andrade – Fox Preview

The bout will be the live co-feature of an HBO Boxing After Dark tripleheader card that will feature Jazreel Corrales defending the WBA World Super Featherweight Title against undefeated Alberto Machado and Ryan Burnett taking on Zhanat Zhakiyanov (tape delay) in a Bantamweight Unification Bout. The HBO telecast will begin at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT.

The Corrales vs. Machado bout is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

The Andrade – Fox bout is promoted by Banner Promotions, Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and A-Team Promotions, in association with DiBella Entertainment.

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

Host of the October 21st event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is an award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year level boxing. The October event will mark Turning Stone’s 23rd nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a leading destination for nationally-televised combat sports. Turning Stone is celebrated for its noteworthy boxing events such as boxing legend Mike Tyson selecting the resort as the venue for his world debut as a promoter, Muhammad Ali’s daughter Laila Ali made her boxing debut at Turning Stone and in April 2015, Turning Stone was selected to host “Fight of the Year” contender – Matthysse vs. Provodnivkov – over arenas in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Miami. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including four hotels, more than 20 signature restaurants and dining options, two spas, an all-new 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, a cabaret-style Showroom, a 5,000 seat arena, five golf courses, several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues with live entertainment every weekend.

Tickets for this highly anticipated matchup are on sale now and available for $65 for ringside seats and others priced at $25, $30, $40 and $49, plus any applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office, by calling 315-361-7469 or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

Corrales vs. Machado is a 12-round fight for the WBA Super World Super Featherweight Championship, to be held Saturday, October 21 at the Turning Stone in Verona, New York. The main event is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cotto Promotions. The event is sponsored by TECATE, THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING, Casa Mexico Tequila, and Thor: Ragnarok, and will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT.

Professional media requesting credentials for Corrales vs. Machado must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at kelly.abdo@turningstone.com.

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

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.hbo.com/boxing, and www.turningstone.com follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @HBOboxing @TurningStone; and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/hboboxing, and www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort and visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing and @TurningStone. Follow the conversation using #CorralesMachado

Verona, NY (OCT. 20, 2017) -Weights from Turning Stone Resort Casino for Saturday’s HBO Boxing After Dark® telecast.

Demetrius Andrade 159.5 – Alantez Fox 160

Ruben Villa 127 1/4 – German Meraz 128

Michael Dutchover 135 – Anthony De Jesus Ruiz 133 1/2

The bout will be the live co-feature of an HBO Boxing After Dark tripleheader card that will feature Jazreel Corrales defending the WBA World Super Featherweight Title against undefeated Alberto Machado and Ryan Burnett taking on Zhanat Zhakiyanov (tape delay) in a Bantamweight Unification Bout. The HBO telecast will begin at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT.

The Corrales vs. Machado bout is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions.

The Andrade – Fox bout is promoted by Banner Promotions, Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and A-Team Promotions, in association with DiBella Entertainment.

The Villa – Meraz and Dutchover – Ruiz bouts are promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.

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

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

Host of the October 21st event, Turning Stone Resort Casino is an award-winning destination resort, which continues to distinguish itself as a premier venue for fight-of-the-year level boxing. The October event will mark Turning Stone’s 23rd nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a leading destination for nationally-televised combat sports. Turning Stone is celebrated for its noteworthy boxing events such as boxing legend Mike Tyson selecting the resort as the venue for his world debut as a promoter, Muhammad Ali’s daughter Laila Ali made her boxing debut at Turning Stone and in April 2015, Turning Stone was selected to host “Fight of the Year” contender – Matthysse vs. Provodnivkov – over arenas in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Miami. Turning Stone features world-class amenities including four hotels, more than 20 signature restaurants and dining options, two spas, an all-new 125,000 square foot Las Vegas style gaming floor, a cabaret-style Showroom, a 5,000 seat arena, five golf courses, several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues with live entertainment every weekend.

Tickets for this highly anticipated matchup are on sale now and available for $65 for ringside seats and others priced at $25, $30, $40 and $49, plus any applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Resort Box Office, by calling 315-361-7469 or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

Corrales vs. Machado is a 12-round fight for the WBA Super World Super Featherweight Championship, to be held Saturday, October 21 at the Turning Stone in Verona, New York. The main event is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cotto Promotions. The event is sponsored by TECATE, THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING, Casa Mexico Tequila, and Thor: Ragnarok, and will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT.

Professional media requesting credentials for Corrales vs. Machado must contact Kelly Abdo, Turning Stone Resort Casino Public Relations Manager at kelly.abdo@turningstone.com.

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

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.hbo.com/boxing, and www.turningstone.com follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @HBOboxing @TurningStone; and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/hboboxing, and www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort and visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing and @TurningStone. Follow the conversation using #CorralesMachado

Saturday’s HBO Boxing After Dark® tripleheader telecast begins at 10:05 p.m. ET/PT.

Opening up the telecast (tape delay) from SSE Arena in Belfast, Ireland is a 12 round Bantamweight Title Unification Bout between Ryan Burnett and Zhanat Zhakiyanov.

Leading up to the main event live from Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York is a 12-round middleweight attraction featuring Two-Time World Champion Demetrius Andrade taking on undefeated Alantez Fox.

In the main event of the evening Jezreel Corrales will face undefeated Alberto Machado in a 12-round super featherweight matchup.

Official Weights from Verona:

Jezreel Corrales: 133.25 lbs.
Alberto Machado: 130.0 lbs.

Demetrius Andrade: 159.50 lbs.
Alantez Fox: 160.0 lbs.

Ryan Burnett: 117.6 lbs.
Zhanat Zhakiyanov: 117.4 lbs.

Join the conversation on Twitter: #CorralesMachado