Louisville, Ky – June 22, 2017 – Evander Holyfield’s Real Deal Sports & Entertainment, in association with Top Knotch Boxing and Kentucky Venues, is thrilled to announce the full card set for its promotional debut on Sat., June 24, from the historic Freedom Hall, in Louisville, Ky. The televised portion of the event will feature a quadruple-header aired live on CBS Sports Network, at 10pm ET, headlined by the always-exciting heavyweight contender Derric Rossy facing Puerto Rican Carlos Negron in a 10-round bout with the vacant WBC Continental Americas title at stake.

The inaugural installment of the “Real Deal Championship Boxing” series, branded as “Evander’s Tribute to Ali”, will be a part of the local “I Am Ali” Festival in honor of Muhammad Ali, one year after the champ’s passing.

The CBS Sports Network telecast will also be streamed live internationally on www.therealdealboxing.com, and will include a competitive undercard as well as the televised feature. CBS Sports Network commentator Benny Ricardo will call the action ringside with Hall-of-Famer Barry Tompkins, who was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame, in Canastota, NY, on June 11, along with four-time world heavyweight champion Holyfield.

The last professional boxing event held at Freedom Hall took place on July 30, 2004, when a relatively unknown from England named Danny Williams shocked Mike Tyson by stopping him in the fourth round. The undercard that night also featured Ali’s daughter Laila Ali, who defended her IWBF super middleweight title. The venue has historical significance, having hosted Ali’s professional debut in 1960 as well as Jimmy Ellis’ heavyweight world title elimination battle against Argentinean Oscar Bonavena in 1967.

Friday’s weigh-in is open to the public, beginning at 5 p.m. ET, and will be streamed live from the Kentucky Center Main Street Plaza on The Real Deal’s website: www.therealdealboxing.com.

“I am extremely pleased with the tremendous card we have put together for Real Deal Sports & Entertainment’s inaugural event live from Freedom Hall, in Louisville, Ky, on Saturday. It has been an honor to work with Top Knotch Boxing, Kentucky Venues, and all those who helped make this event a success,” said Eric Bentley, COO of Real Deal Sports & Entertainment. “Boxing fans will really enjoy what we have in store for them, and it can be seen on our website all over the world.”

“The CBS Sports Network telecast features an entertaining heavyweight battle between Derric Rossy and Carlos Negron, middleweights Steven Martinez and Anthony Lenk vying to reach the next level in their careers, the comeback of featherweight contender Toka Kahn Clary, and a clash of unbeaten welterweight prospects Pete Dobson and Jeremy Nichols. The undercard also includes popular local fighters and rising prospects,” Bentley continued.

“I am very proud to bring this card to Louisville, Ky,” said Holyfield, co-owner of Real Deal Sports & Entertainment. “We have high quality talent, competitive fights and some local up-and-comers. This is what we stand for and will continue to represent. We stand by our fighters and are really looking to build something special here in Louisville. I hope everyone comes to Freedom Hall on Saturday and enjoys the show.”

“Having Evander Holyfield’s Real Deal Boxing event at Freedom Hall in the same stadium and city where Muhammad Ali began his professional career is a great way to bring boxing back to Louisville, and the state of Kentucky,” said Donald Lassere, president and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center. “But what makes this event even more special is that it is part of the city’s six-week, communitywide ‘I Am Ali’ Festival. This is another way to celebrate Muhammad Ali’s legacy and to showcase our great city of Louisville.”

“Kentucky is proud to host the inaugural Real Deal Championship Boxing Series event,” said Governor Matt Bevin. “Kentucky is well known for our enthusiastic sports fans, and the event promises to be an exciting experience for all.”

“Bringing championship boxing back to Louisville is great for the city,” said Joe Reeves, managing partner/owner of ARGI Financial Group. “Louisville used to be the epicenter of boxing. There is no reason why we can’t resurrect that.”

“Louisville has been a boxing town since the 18th century, and we are getting back into the fight game in a big way with this event,” said Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer. “I think that the late, great Muhammad Ali would have been proud to see his sport having a revival here.”

Over his 12-plus-year professional career, heavyweight Derric Rossy (31-12, 15 KOs) has proven his willingness to take on any challenge, always entertaining fans with his all-action style. Rossy, of Medford, Long Island, NY, turned pro in 2004 after winning the New York Golden Gloves tournament and has been promoted his entire career by Sal Musumeci, now doing business as president/CEO of Real Deal Sports & Entertainment. His resume reads like a who’s who of heavyweight contenders, with battles against Eddie Chambers, Alexander Dimitrenko, Kubrat Pulev, Maurice Harris, Audley Harrison, Fres Oquendo, Vyacheslav Glazkov, Bermane Stiverne and Erkan Teper. Rossy holds impressive victories versus Gary Bell, Ray Mercer, Travis Walker, 26-1 Carl Drummond, 21-1 Joe Hanks and 16-0 Axror Muralimov, and has won numerous titles including the New York State, NABO, WBC Asian, WBC Fecarbox, WBC-USNBC, and the IBF North American heavyweight belts. He is coming off of a second-round stoppage win over Richard Carmack on December 10.

Carlos Negron (19-1, 15 KOs) is a 2008 Puerto Rican Olympian, from San Juan. Standing at 6’6”, he turned pro in 2009, and his only loss came in 2011. Currently riding a six-fight winning streak, Negron won the WBC Fecarbox title on Sept. 9, 2016, with a first-round TKO over 20-3 Andy Perez. In his last bout, Negron knocked out 17-0 Cristian Galvez in two rounds, on Dec. 19. The June 24 fight will be his first stateside appearance since 2010.

In the televised co-feature, Steven Martinez will square off against southpaw Anthony Lenk in an eight-round middleweight contest. Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, but now based out of The Bronx, NY, Steven Martinez (17-3, 13 KOs) is trained by Marco Suarez and has been a pro since 2009. On Dec. 19, 2015, Martinez earned his most impressive win, stopping 29-5-1 Jorge Melendez inside two rounds. As an amateur, Martinez accumulated a 103-17 record and was a three-time New York Golden Gloves champion, three-time New York Metro champion, two-time Empire State Games champion and a National Golden Gloves champion in 2008, where he was voted the ‘Most Outstanding Boxer’ of the tournament. Lenk (14-3, 7 KOs), of Niagara Falls, N.Y., is returning from a three-and-a-half-year layoff. He was a three-time national champion, a three-time national silver medalist and a two-time Golden Glove finalist; in his professional career he has two wins over unbeaten prospects and has never been knocked out himself, with two of his losses coming via majority decision.

Junior lightweight contender Toka Kahn Clary (21-1, 15 KOs) will continue his quest for a world title, competing in an eight-round special attraction bout versus Dominican Angel Luna (11-2-1, 6 KOs). He has rebounded from his only loss last September with two wins by knockout. Born in Monrovia, Liberia, Kahn Clary immigrated to the United States as a child, initially living in Philadelphia, Penn., before settling in Providence, RI. Trained by Peter Manfredo Sr. since his amateur days, Kahn Clary turned pro in 2012. A highly accomplished amateur with a 119-11 record, Kahn Clary began boxing at age 14 and was a National Golden Gloves champion and a five-time New England Golden Gloves champion. Fighting out of Brooklyn, NY, by way of Santiago de los Caballeros, Luna has experience against quality opposition, going the distance with world-ranked Tevin Farmer and handing prospect Jose Lopez, then 15-0-1, his only defeat in 2015.

Welterweight up-and-comers “Pistol” Pete Dobson (8-0, 5 KOs), of The Bronx, NY, and Jeremy “J Flash” Nichols (7-0-1, 2 KOs), of Las Vegas, Nev., will put their undefeated records on the line in the eight-round televised opener. The vacant WBC-USNBC Silver title will be at stake. A New York Golden Gloves champion, Dobson is a fan-friendly, aggressive volume-puncher who can box as well as brawl. While still an amateur, Nichols, originally from Long Beach, Calif., gained invaluable experience as a sparring partner for Floyd Mayweather Jr. leading into the mega fight with Manny Pacquiao. Nichols is intent on testing himself, as Dobson will be his fourth unbeaten adversary upon turning pro in October 2015. Both Dobson and Nichols will compete in their first scheduled eight-rounder.

The stacked undercard off-TV will include Real Deal Sports & Entertainment prospects Devaun “Unique” Lee (7-2-1, 3 KOs), a middleweight from Queens, NY, against local Robelle Rogers (4-1, 2 KOs), of Lexington, Ky, in a six-round contest, and Louisville lightweight Carlos Dixon, a nationally ranked amateur and three-time regional Golden Gloves champion, in his pro debut versus DeAngelo Huggins (0-3), of Indianapolis, Ind.

Powerful undefeated Haitian heavyweight prospect Jean Pierre Augustin (14-0-1, 9 KOs), of Lawrence, Mass., takes on Mexican Alfredo Trevino (8-2-1, 1 KO), of Agua Prieta, Sonora, in an eight-round bout. Augustin, who has six first-round knockouts, is riding a six-fight knockout streak. He is trained by former world champion Vinny Paz whom he met while playing a role in the film “Bleed For This”, which is based on Paz’s boxing career.

Unbeaten light heavyweight Curtis Hill Jr. (10-0, 5 KOs), of Indianapolis, Ind., clashes with Eric Moon (3-9), of Southfield, Mich., in a six-rounder. In August 2016, Hill won the Indiana State light heavyweight title.

Detroit’s 18-year-old welterweight prospect JaNelson Bocachica (6-0, 4 KOs), will compete in his first six-round bout, since turning pro last June, against Leonardo Carrizales (4-2-1, 2 KOs), of Brownsville, Tex.

Heavyweights Joseph Benjamin White, of Miami, Fla., and Louisville’s Abel Penna Fails will battle it out for their first professional win in a four-round contest. Both of their records stand at 0-1.

Two amateur bouts will open up the event.

Part of the proceeds from the June 24 event will be donated to Louisville TKO and the Muhammad Ali Center to help support youth development activities in the Louisville area.

Tickets for the live event on June 24, promoted by Real Deal Sports & Entertainment in association with Top Knotch Boxing and Kentucky Venues, are priced at $105, $79, $58 and $41. Tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster, online at this link: http://www.ticketmaster.com/Real-Deal-Championship-Boxing-tickets/artist/2374260?tm_link=tm_homeA_b_10004_6 or by calling 800-745-3000. Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, with the first bout scheduled for 7 p.m. ET.

VENUM is a proud sponsor of Real Deal Sports & Entertainment.

A special thank you to the Louisville Sports Commission, 4th Street Live, the Kentucky Boxing and Wrestling Commission, the Muhammad Ali Center, the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, and the Downtown Louisville Marriott.

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ABOUT REAL DEAL SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Evander Holyfield’s Real Deal Sports & Entertainment will promote world-class and entertaining boxing events and will strive to be a company that does what is best for the sport and the fighters. With Holyfield’s vision to provide mentorship to athletes, prioritize fighter health and safety, and create innovative and interactive platforms for the fans, Real Deal Sports & Entertainment is at the forefront of revolutionizing the sport of boxing.

ABOUT LOUISVILLE TKO
Founded in 2015, Louisville TKO is a nonprofit organization that strives to empower youth by giving them tools to build positive futures. It depends on the support of individuals to fulfill its mission to transform the lives of youth through structured boxing programs and positive reinforcement.

ABOUT KENTUCKY VENUES
Under the Kentucky Venues brand of venues, entertainment, events and agriculture, two major convention and exhibition facilities — the Kentucky Exposition Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center — serve regional, national and international clients. Governed by the Kentucky State Fair Board, Kentucky Venues produces the Kentucky State Fair, National Farm Machinery Show, North American International Livestock Exposition, Championship Tractor Pull, World’s Championship Horse Show, North American Championship Rodeo, and All-In Hoopfest.

CHICAGO (June 22, 2017) – Bringing fight fans closer to the action than ever before, Linacre Media and ULTRACAST will partner to stream Friday’s FIGHTNIGHT LIVE Rosemont Rumble not only live in H.D. on Facebook, but in Facebook 360? and in ULTRACAST 360? Virtual Reality as well.

Supporters of the Sweet Science can take advantage of the multi-camera FIGHTNIGHT LIVE broadcast on Facebook as well as the fan-controlled Facebook 360? feature – both completely free wherever Facebook is available – and also check out all of the action in ULTRACAST 360? VR by downloading the ULTRACAST app and subscribing to the PPV feed for only $2.00. Available for IOS and Android, fans simply need to download the ULTRACAST app in the App store or by visiting www.ultracast.com/app.

“We are thrilled about partnering with Linacre and FIGHTNIGHT LIVE to provide fans the 360? Virtual Reality experience of the Rosemont Rumble”, said CEO of Ultracast, Dmitry Kozko.

“We’re excited to be able to capitalize on cutting-edge technology to give Friday night’s audience a ringside seat at the Rosemont Rumble,” said Mark Fratto, Principal of Linacre Media. “Our Facebook Live series continues to keep fight fans at the forefront, now with not just one – but three – free viewing experiences available.”

ULTRACAST is the premier app for live 360? and VR content, broadcasting – or better yet, ultracasting – unique, exclusive perspectives of events to millions of mobile phones, worldwide. ULTRACAST takes viewers ringside at fights, allows them to be part of the back-stage drama, celebrate the win on the podium or feel the front-row excitement of a concert; getting up-close and personal, and going “beyond live”. Get the latest updates with ULTRACAST by following ULTRACASTLIVE on Facebook and @Ultracastlive on Twitter and Instagram.

After a successful pilot that was viewed by more than 40,000 boxing fans live on Facebook, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE hits the Chicago area on Friday, June 23, from Rosemont, Ill., with hardware on the line in a rematch of a hotly-contested draw as Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez (20-1-1, 14 KOs) and “Son of the Legend” Aaron Pryor, Jr. (19-10-2, 12 KOs) square off in a ten-round main event for the WBC Continental Americas Super Middleweight Championship.

Longtime Chicago fan favorite and perennial contender Donovan “Da Bomb” George, (25-7-2, 22 KOs) will join his previously-announced #BOMBSQUAD teammate Jimenez in an eight-round light heavyweight co-feature. Undefeated in his hometown of Chicago, George will be fighting locally for the first time in three years, facing off against area arch-nemesis Derrick “Superman” Findley (26-21-1, 17 KOs) of Gary, Indiana.

Legendary Chicago-based National Anthem singer Jim Cornelison will once again honor our country prior to the start of the main event – fans can catch that highly-anticipated performance along with all of the action in the ring live on Facebook or in VR via the ULTRACAST app.

“It’s a tremendous honor to take our Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE platform to the Windy City area. It’s becoming a national platform already during its infancy – with East Coast and West Coast dates on the calendar and now this opportunity in the No. 3 media market in America – and we’ve been thrilled with the response from fight fans so far,” said Fratto. “We’re looking forward to working with the Village of Rosemont, as well as legendary promoters like Bobby Hitz and Frank Mugnolo on this card.”

The numbers on the May 11 FIGHTNIGHT LIVE pilot from Mohegan Sun Resort showed promise and potential for the new platform. With only two days of promotion, the premiere broadcast amassed 43,000 total video views by 38,000 unique viewers. A total of 1.4 thousand hours of LIVE video was consumed by Facebook users during the first show alone. In addition to the raw numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly production saw 9,021 live post engagements for the show, which included 5,000 “likes” or “loves,” 2,989 comments and 628 shares.

On Friday night, June 23, live from The Dome at The Ballpark in Rosemont, fans can expect a high-impact, multi-camera streaming experience – now also available in 360? and ULTRACAST VR – complete with graphics, animations, replays, interviews and an announce team anchored by blow-by-blow announcer Ray Flores of Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime Boxing, HBO Boxing and CBS Sports Network boxing fame. To provide spectators with a fully-interactive ringside experience, commentators will ask and respond to questions from the Facebook audience throughout the broadcast.

Joining the broadcast team will be world-ranked light heavyweight, Mike Lee.

University of Notre Dame alum Lee (19-0, 10 KOs) is ranked No. 12 by the WBO, No. 12 by the IBF and No. 14 by the WBC, and was originally scheduled to be in the main event but now joins Flores for expert analysis. Television hostDanielle Robay of WCIU-Chicago and Entertainment Tonight, NBC-4 Los Angeles and HLN-fame will bring fans exclusive pre-and post-fight interviews from ringside.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features multiple camera angles, graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

A July 15 date in Phoenix, Ariz., with Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions has already been released on the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE calendar. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE strap season continues on Saturday, July 29, in Raleigh, N.C., as Tar Heel State undefeated super flyweight Dewayne Beamon competes for the IBO Inter-Continental and UBF World Junior Bantamweight titles. More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag#FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or#LinacreMediaOnTV.

Josh Kelly is ready to become a leading light in the North East as he tops the bill in the second instalment of the JDNXTGEN series at the Walker Activity Dome in Newcastle on Friday June 23, live on Sky Sports and on Sky Sports Facebook.

Kelly faces Birtley’s Tom Whitfield in his third pro outing since making his debut in April in Glasgow, following a fine six-round points win over Jay Byrne in Scotland with a fourth round stoppage win over Jony Vina in Birmingham in May.

Kelly was set to be a floating fight on the Anthony Joshua vs. Wladimir Klitschko bill at Wembley Stadium, but instead now headlines on home turf and he’s thrilled to be part of Sky Sports’ return to the North East.

“It’s going to be a great night tomorrow,” said Kelly, who scaled 10st 8lbs, with Whitfield scaling 10st 7lbs. “I just want to go from strength to strength and keep learning and growing, and I know that this time next year we could be back up in the North East in some big fights.

“There’s lots of talented fighters up here and it’s great to bring Sky Sports and the JDNXTGEN up here to showcase that. But you have to be selfish in this game and I’m in it for myself, I’m focussing on my journey and that’s why I am down in Surrey with Adam Booth, because it’s the best place for me to make the most of my career. Adam is a brilliant trainer. He picks everything apart and analyses everything, and explains it really clearly to get you to improve.

“I would love to have boxed at Wembley of course but it was a big night for Joshua and a lot of the guys higher up the card. It was their show and that’s what people went to watch, as I would have done if I’d been going as a fan. I shook it off quickly, got a good win a couple of weeks later in Birmingham and now headline up in the North East.”

Kelly is joined on the bill by fellow Team GB Rio Olympian Anthony Fowler (11st 3lbs) who faces Nikoloz Gvajava (11st 3lbs) in his second pro outing. Tasha Jonas (9st 9lbs) makes her pro debut against Monika Atonik (9st 10lbs) while former World champion Stuart Hall also weighed in today (8st 12lbs) and tackles Jose Aguilar (8st 13lbs).

Bradley Saunders returns to the ring, unbeaten Super-Middleweight Jordan King looks to build on his 8-0 start, Cruiserweight pair Simon Vallily and Warren Baister continue their assault on the division, while Preston’s Super-Welterweight Scott Fitzgerald is also in action.

Tickets are on sale now priced £30 unreserved balcony, £40 unreserved tier, £60 reserved floor seats and £100 reserved VIP seats – tickets are available from www.matchroomboxing.com.

Undefeated Heavyweight Hughie Fury will make his eagerly-anticipated return to the ring on Frank Warren’s stacked The Future Is Now July 8th Copper Box Arena card.

The younger cousin of former Unified World Heavyweight Champion Tyson Fury has ripped through the division since turning professional in 2013, halting ten of his opponents and picking up the WBO Inter-Continental strap against Fred Kassi in his last outing.

Fury, 22, was due to challenge WBO Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker for his belt last month in New Zealand but was forced to postpone when he injured his back. After overcoming the disappointment of his injury, Fury is looking to make a statement on his big return.

“I can’t wait to get back under the lights and do what I do best,” said Fury. “I was disappointed to miss out my shot against Parker but this is boxing and injuries happen all of the time. I will get my shot at the WBO Heavyweight belt later this year and follow in the footsteps of Tyson.”

Peter Fury said: “Hughie has recovered from the back injury that kept him out of his World title fight with Parker and he is itching to get back in the ring next month. We are treating this fight as a warm-up to the big one later this year. The division is certainly opening up with plenty of opportunities and we are confident that Hughie is going to figure dominantly for years to come.”

Promoter Frank Warren said: “Hughie is one of the best and most exciting young Heavyweight prospects in the World and I’m delighted to add him to our stacked July 8 Copper Box Arena card. He needs to get this warm-up fight out of the way before he faces Parker later in the year. I am confident that the WBO Heavyweight belt will once again be in possession of the Fury family come the end of the year.”

Elsewhere on the card Light-Heavyweight monster Anthony Yarde challenges Richard Baranyi for the WBO European belt; Darryll Williams and Jahmaine Smyle rematch for the English Super-Middleweight belt after their Fight of the Year contender in April; Gary Corcoran faces Larry Ekundayo in an intriguing battle for the Vacant WBO Intercontinental Welterweight strap; Sam McNess gets his first pro title shot against Southern Area Super-Welterweight Champion Asinia Byfield and teenage Heavyweight sensation Daniel Dubois looks to move to 4-0.

Tickets for The Future Is Now priced at £40, £50, £100, £150 and £250 are available from:

www.eventim.co.uk

www.seetickets.com

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

ORANGE, Calif. (June 21, 2017) – The boxing community first witnessed the power punching ability of Manuel “La Tormenta” Mendez (15-1-2, 11 KOs) last November on a SHOWTIME broadcast. He eviscerated the previously unbeaten Vitor Jones Freitas with a crushing left hook to the body in the first round.

On Friday night, Mendez plans to apply his signature power to fellow lightweight Mohamed Rodriguez (9-4, 3 KOs). The pair headline Thompson Boxing’s “Path to Glory” 8-round main event from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Watch Mendez vs. Rodriguez and the rest of the 6-fight card on TB Presents: Path To Glory: live streaming on ThompsonBoxing.com and Facebook Live beginning at 7:45 p.m. PST / 10:45 p.m. EST.

Tickets for “Path to Glory” are priced at $40, $60, & $100 and are available for purchase online at ThompsonBoxing.com, or by calling 714-935-0900.

Mendez, who is from Ontario, Ore., but relocated to Indio, Calif. several years ago to train with Joel Diaz, has become well known among the boxing savvy fans of Southern California’s Inland Empire, where Friday’s fight takes place.

“I plan to reward the fans with a great fight,” said the 26-year-old. “Boxing is a spectator sport and I know what the fans want to see. I think fans understand the type of fighter that I am. Once they see my name on the card, they know what they’re going to get.”

Mendez has familiarized himself with Rodriquez’s style. He compares him to a former opponent, Cesar Villarraga, whom he knocked out in the third round.

“Rodriguez likes to move around a lot so I know I’ll have to cut off the ring,” Mendez said. “The plan is to make him fight my style. If I can get him to trade that’s going to be a losing fight for him. That’s where I’m at my best.”

Mendez is known for wearing down opponents with his bruising style, but lately he’s been working on the psychological aspect of the sweet science.

“I’ve been more focused on trying to control the fight mentally,” said Mendez, who’s nickname “La Tormenta” is Spanish for the “The Storm.” “Once I have him frustrated then I can make every punch count. I don’t need to throw a lot of punches to be effective. I want to be efficient with my shots.”

In the 8-round co-feature, the technically polished Jesse Roman (21-3, 10 KOs) of Santa Ana, Calif. puts his boxing skills to the test against Erick Martinez (13-7-1, 7 KOs) of Tijuana, Mex.

Also on the card, junior lightweight Michael Dutchover (4-0, 4 KOs) of Midland, Tex., who is one of the division’s most promising young talents, puts his knockout win streak to the test against the more experienced Miguel Carrizoza (10-1, 2 KOs) of Mexico in a fight set for 6-rounds.

Connect with Manuel “La Tormenta” Mendez on social media: Instagram: @manuelmendez90 & Facebook: Manuel La Tormenta Mendez

Connect with Michael Dutchover on social media: Instagram: @micaheld_00 and Twitter: @angelodutch7.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. local time with the first bout at approximately 7:45 p.m. The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave. in Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at 909-937-0900.

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

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. To follow the conversation on social media, please use #PathToGlory, #TBPresents, and #ThompsonBoxing.

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.

WBA Cruiserweight champion is the latest beltholder to enter the World Boxing Super Series, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

Earlier this month, the first three cruiserweight entrants were announced: world titleholders Murat Gassiev (24-0, 17 KOs) and Mairis Briedis (22-0, 18 KOs) as well as former titleholder Krzysztof Wlodarczyk (53-3-1, 37 KOs).

“I love the idea of the elimination tournament,” Dorticos said. “It will be a hell of a ride, but I will come out on top. After the World Boxing Super Series, the whole world will know my name. I can’t wait to add the WBC and IBF belts to my collection. I will enter the tournament with one belt and leave it with three.

“On top of that, I will take home the Muhammad Ali Trophy and a lot of money. Really it does not get any better than this, not for the fans and certainly not for us fighters.”

“Right now, we have got three undefeated cruiserweight world champions plus a top-ranked contender who is a former world champion,” Richard Schaefer said. “There are four more spots to be filled in the cruiserweight competition. We will make sure they will be exciting names and fighters the fans want to see.

Kell Brook has vowed to return to the ring by the end of the year after a successful operation on his fractured right eye socket.

Brook sustained the injury in his clash with Errol Spence at Bramall Lane in Sheffield in May where he lost his IBF Welterweight crown to the American in front of a huge crowd at the home of Sheffield United FC.

The Special One was hampered by the eye in the closing stages of the high class contest which ended in an 11th round stoppage win for the unbeaten challenger.

Brook had surgery on the injury on Friday (June 16), which was a carbon copy of the left-eye socket fracture he suffered in his lash with Kazakh ace Gennady Golovkin, and the Sheffield ace is making fine progress in his recovery and has targeted a return to the ring this winter.

“I spoke to the surgeon and he said that the operation was a big success and simpler than the last one,” said Brook. “It took half the time of the first one and there’s very little swelling and it looks great. The last scan I had revealed that the healing has started really well and the bone already looks strong so I expect to make a full recovery and I want to fight again in 2017.

“I was bitterly disappointed by the loss at Bramall Lane. Losing my belt was gutting but I’m glad I accepted to fight Spence and help be part of an event that Sheffield will remember and be proud of.

“I still feel that I have a massive future in the sport. I will talk to my team in the coming weeks about what we can do next and I am looking to get back into camp this summer.”

21 June 2017 – Surabaya, Indonesia: The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced its inaugural event in Surabaya, Indonesia which is set to take place 29 July at the GOR Kertajaya Arena. The capital of East Java will play host to ONE: CONQUEST OF KINGS, featuring the absolute best in world-class martial arts talent. In the main event, Kairat Akhmetov will face Adriano Moraes to crown the undisputed ONE Flyweight World Champion.

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

Chatri Sityodtong, Chairman and CEO of ONE Championship, stated: “There is always a tremendous atmosphere and excitement when ONE Championship visits Indonesia, and it is a delight to finally announce our first event for fans in Surabaya. We’re coming at you live and ready to showcase the world’s most authentic display of martial arts. We have a thrilling main event planned, with ONE Flyweight World Champion Kairat Akhmetov facing Interim Champion Adriano Moraes, in a rematch of their first encounter to crown the undisputed king of the division.”

Kairat Akhmetov of Kazakhstan is undefeated inside the mixed martial arts cage. He boasts an unblemished 23-0 record over his six years as a professional. Akhmetov employs a devastating attack with power in both hands, as well as a tenacious wrestling game that overpowers his opponents. In Akhmetov’s last bout, he defeated top flyweight and former champion Adriano Moraes to capture the ONE Flyweight World Championship. Now, the two are set for a much-anticipated rematch in Surabaya.

Interim ONE Flyweight World Champion Adriano “Mikinho” Moraes had his initial title reign cut short, when he met Kairat Akhmetov in November of 2015, losing via split decision. It was a close bout, but Akhmetov’s wrestling proved difficult to handle, even for an athlete of Moraes’ caliber. As champion, Moraes was skillful and dominant, and was rarely opposed inside the ONE Championship cage. In his most recent bout, Moraes secured the Interim Flyweight World Title with a victory over Tilek Batyrov. The rematch with Akhmetov will determine the rightful owner of ONE Championship gold in a highly-anticipated title unification bout.

For the first time ever, a Traditional Silat Bout will be held at ONE: CONQUEST OF KINGS, showcasing the beauty and authenticity of the ancient Indonesian combat discipline at the forefront of Asian martial arts. Top Silat practitioners, Khamid Wichaksana and Muchamad Fauzi, are set to display their amazing skills in front of a packed crowd eager for authentic traditional martial arts action.

32-year-old Toni “Dynamite” Tauru of Utti, Finland, is a professional martial arts athlete competing in ONE Championship’s bantamweight division. He owns a record of 11 wins and five losses, including one draw, with eight of his wins coming impressively by submission. A feared grappling specialist, Tauru is a former European MMA champion and has shown an incredible ability to finish his opponents with high-level techniques. Now, Tauru is tasked to take on Leandro Issa.

Leandro “Brodinho” Issa is a 33-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 13 wins and six losses, including nine wins by submission and one 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 returns to the cage to face Toni Tauru.

Marcin Prachnio is a Polish martial arts athlete with an impressive 12-2 professional record. He’s on a seven bout win-streak, including five wins by devastating technical knockout. He is currently unbeaten in ONE Championship, overcoming three tough challenges in Alexandre Machado, Leandro Ataides, and most recently, Jake Butler. Prachnio is now ready to make his return to the ONE Championship cage to stake his claim as one of the top contenders for the middleweight title. Machado’s next assignment is the veteran Gilbert Galvao.

Gilberto “Giba” Galvão is a 35-year-old martial arts veteran from Sao Paulo, Brazil, with extensive experience in the sport of mixed martial arts. A solid top contender at middleweight, Galvao has competed largely in Brazil and has compiled 29 total victories, more than half of which have ended in submissions. In his last bout, Galvao debuted for the promotion with a stunning victory over Japanese veteran Tatsuya Mizuno. The exceptional grappler is back and will take on Marcin Prachnio.

Indonesian martial artist “The Terminator” Sunoto is a ONE Championship bantamweight with a 6-3 professional mixed martial arts record. With a penchant for grappling, three of Sunoto’s six victories have come by submission. The 32-year-old is known as an aggressive competitor who never backs down from a challenge. His next bout will be against Rocky Batolbatol.

Rocky Batolbatol of the Philippines is a former professional boxer who has transitioned smoothly into mixed martial arts. The hard-hitting Filipino constantly uses well-placed combinations in search of spectacular knockouts and will be looking for a stoppage against his next opponent. In his most recent bout, Batolbatol fell short of victory against rising star Christian Lee. He’ll have his hands full once again, this time with Indonesia’s Sunoto who has proven to be a grappling stud.

Mixed martial arts prospect Jerome S. Paye of Jakarta, Indonesia has experienced mixed results so far in his professional career, amounting to a 2-3 record. Making his ONE Championship debut in February of 2016, Paye showcased a well-rounded set of techniques, stifling his opponent with an array of striking combinations. With the ability to make bouts difficult for any challenger, Paye will now take on Yodsanan Sityodtong in search of his first victory inside the ONE Championship cage.

42-year old former WBA Boxing World Champion Yodsanan “Little Tyson” Sityodtong of Thailand is known as a devastatingly powerful puncher, with the ability to utilize his heavy hands to stop foes with trademark combinations. With 47 KOs in boxing and all three of his mixed martial arts victories ending in similar fashion, expect Sityodtong to always be on the lookout for an abrupt ending to his contents. Currently riding a two-bout winning streak, Sityodtong will be going for number three against Jerome S. Paye.

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, the world’s most exciting mixed martial arts organization hosts the largest sports entertainment events across Asia featuring the best Asian mixed martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. ONE Championship is broadcast to over 1 billion viewers across 118+ countries around the world with some of the largest global broadcasters, including FOX Sports, Setanta, MNC, Astro, Thairath TV, ABS-CBN, TV5, MYTV, HTV, OSN and more.

CRANSTON, RI (June 20, 2017) – Featherweight prospect Toka “T Nice” Kahn-Clary (21-1, 15 KOs) has signed an exclusive promotional contract with new Hall-of-Famer Evander Holyfield’s Real Deal Sports & Management.

The Liberia-born Toka-Kahn, fighting out of Cranston, RI, makes his new promoter’s banner debut this Saturday night in the Real Deal Championship Boxing series televised opener on CBS Sports Network (10 p.m. ET start), airing live from Freedom Hall in Louisville, Kentucky. This event is part of six-week “I Am Ali” festival, concluding July 15, to honor the late, great Muhammad Ali in his hometown.

Kahn-Clary takes on dangerous Dominican Angel “El Gato” Luna (11-2, 6 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight bout.

“Toka is an exceptional talent,” Holyfield said. “Not only is he a hardworking, humble and respectful young man, he is a very talented and accomplished fighter. We expect him to have a very bright future and are excited to have him on the Real Deal Boxing team.”

“I met Evander Holyfield when I was in the amateurs,” Kahn-Clary remembered. “Everybody in boxing likes and respects him. He is one of the best heavyweights of all-time, the best cruiserweight ever. I’m so excited to sign with his new company. They want to make champions – I want to be world champion – and compete with the top promoters in boxing.

“I loved Muhammad Ali, not only because he was a great fighter, but for what he was and did outside the ring. He opened doors for so many like me in boxing and life. I’m honored to be fighting on this card in his hometown.

“I’m also very excited to be fighting on television for the first. I plan to win impressively. A fighter is only as good as his last fight and I want to catch the eyes of everybody watching my fight to let them see my talent. I always study my opponent. He’s a good fighter, looks strong, and he will fight to the best of his ability.”

Kahn-Clary has bitter feelings about his former promoter, Top Rank, which released him after his first professional loss last September, when Toka was caught by a devastating punch early by Jhon Gemino (14-7-1) for an opening-round knockout defeat.

“It happened so fast,” Kahn-Clary explained. “I just ran into a right. My legs were squared, not in a proper boxing stance. I didn’t lose too often in the amateurs (131-11), other than to high-caliber boxers, and I started second-guessing myself after my first pro loss. I decided to become a man and get past it. I had left my trainer,
Peter Manfredo, Sr., for one fight but we’re back together. He’s a great trainer, the best in New England. I have a new advisor, Seth DeRobbio, who was at my first fight. We’ve been friends for a while and we really trust each other. We want to get to a high level together.

“I’ve been a pro five years now. Top Rank never gave me my minimums (fights per year and purses) and my manager at that time didn’t help. They never put me on television. Top Rank didn’t know what to do with me after my loss. I just wanted another opportunity like they’ve given other fighters after a first loss. I was begging them to put me back in the ring. I just wanted to redeem myself. They never did things in my best interest and, I guess, they lost faith in me. It’s no big deal but I’m on a mission to knock out as many Top Rank fighters as I can.”

Overcoming one loss in the squared-circle isn’t a problem for the soon-to-be (June 22) 25-year-old Kahn-Clary, who has overcome so many more challenging and exceedingly dangerous obstacles during his young life. Born Toka Kahn, he knew very little about his real mother as a child, even admitting to not knowing how many siblings he has today. His father moved to Philadelphia and in 1998, when Toka was six, his father brought him and his younger sister there to live with him. Sadly, though, his father was later shot to death, leaving Toka and his sister alone. In 2000, they moved to Providence (RI) to live with a family that, frankly, didn’t really care what happened to them. All signs led to Kahn falling in with the wrong crowd and getting into serious trouble. He was homeless for a while but, fortunately, he found boxing and that became his salvation.

Kahn was saved the day a friend took him to Manfredo’s Gym, then located in Pawtucket, RI, where trainer Manfredo, Sr., USA Boxing/New England president Jim Perella and the couple that eventually adopted him, Andrea Watson and Ron Clary, completely changed his once-hardened life.

Before he was adopted, no matter the weather, Toka rode his bike six or seven miles each way to the gym from his make-shift residence, which didn’t even have electricity. He never told anybody, never complained. One day Andrea told the quiet, private kid in the gym that Christmas was coming and she had a present for him – an extra bedroom.

Toka developed into a decorated U.S. amateur boxer, collecting numerous medals at national tournaments, highlighted by his gold-medal performance at the 2010 U.S. National Golden Globes Championships. He was also a silver medalist at the 2009 National Golden Gloves Championships and 2011 U.S. National Championships, as well as a bronze medalist at the 2012 U.S. Nationals Championships.

“Toka is an unbelievable boxer and an even better person who’s overcome so much adversity,” DeRobbio commented. “Now, with a better support team then he’s ever had, there’s no stopping him. I will give this young man 150-percent.”

Having won his last two fights against Mario Antonio Macias and Francisco Medel, both by knockout, Kahn-Clary is getting back to where he was before suffering his only pro loss, as one of the top prospects in boxing, and going beyond. Only now a living legend has his back, Evander Holyfield. The sky’s the limit!

LOS ANGELES (June 20, 2017) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and three-division world champion Mikey Garcia completed a two-day media tour that took them from coast-to-coast and culminated with a Los Angeles press conference Tuesday to discuss their super lightweight showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.

Tickets to the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $950, $750, $350, $300, $250, $150, $75, and $50 (not including applicable fees), are on sale now, and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

The fighters spoke to media at the Conga Room in L.A. Live as they prepare for the 12-round matchup that serves as one of the summer’s premier fights. Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday:

ADRIEN BRONER

“I don’t shy away from fighting anyone. I will fight anyone they bring to the table. I said yes to this fight immediately and hung up.

“I’m going to do whatever I have to do to get the victory. Mikey Garcia says he has great power, but I would like to see what his opponents would do if I hit them. Give me all 36 of his opponents and give him all of my opponents, let’s see what our records would be.

“I broke my hand in my last fight but I’m feeling good right now. I’m going hard in sparring with some great, undefeated fighters. I’m full-focused heading into this fight. I’m going to get up for this fight and show that I’m still one of the best out here.

“I’m always going to be me. Right now I’m just focused on boxing and getting this victory on July 29.

“Mikey is a great fighter. I just feel like I’m on a different level. The best is fighting the best right here and it’s going to be explosive.

“I’m thankful. I’ve been through a lot of things in my 27 years of life. And I have another opportunity to show what I’m made of. I’m not missing weight on my birthday. You can bet on that. July 29 I’m going to be victorious.

“Anyone can get hit if you let them. Everyone Mikey has put down has been at 135-pounds and under. I’ve already been a champion there. After this fight I think he’s going to go back to where he belongs…in the lower weight classes.”

MIKEY GARCIA

“I’m very happy to be here and get back in the ring. This is the kind of fight that I deserve and the kind of fight that will please the fans.

“Everybody already knows what kind of fighter Adrien Broner is. He’s a champion for a reason, the skills and talent are there. I’m undefeated and you can’t deny my skills either. That’s going to make this a great fight.

“This is really two of the best fighters matching up against each other. This is what boxing is all about. That’s what I want to give the fans. I’m not taking on any easy opponents, I’m here to challenge and be in big fights.

“I want the fans to be able to appreciate the sport of boxing. These are the kind of fights that fans will remember for years. This could be the Fight of the Year. We’re very even when it comes to our accolades and achievements.

“When Adrien is at his best he’s a fantastic fighter. I’m always at my best. You can never doubt that. You’re going to see an incredible fight. I want to win this fight and open up bigger opportunities. Adrien knows it’s the same for him, that’s why he moved his camp to Colorado.

“This has all the ingredients of a great fight. On July 29 Barclays Center is going to be the place to be at. If you can’t make it, make sure you watch on SHOWTIME. Don’t miss it. People are going to be talking about it for years to come.”

MIKE STAFFORD, Broner’s Trainer

“Adrien has to use his speed to his advantage. We have to use our smarts in the ring and make sure we’re the bigger man. More power and more speed will get us to victory.

“Mikey tries to set traps and tries to counter with the hook or the right hand. We throw too many combinations for that. With Adrien being the bigger man, he has to use the quick jab and set up the right hand.

“Mikey is a slick boxer. He definitely has skills. That’s what we want. We never really liked fighting a brawler. I always train my guys to box. Styles make people seem different ways and I think this is the perfect style for Adrien.”

ROBERT GARCIA, Garcia’s Brother & Trainer

“We’re getting ready for the best Adrien Broner possible. We know he’s already out in Colorado for training camp because he knows it’s not an easy fight. This is do or die for him so he’s taking it seriously.

“When they brought up the name of Adrien Broner, it took no time for us to agree. This was an easy fight to make.

“Inside of the ring I think we’re going to see a great Adrien Broner. When Mikey beats him, I want Mikey to get the credit for beating a great fighter.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“This is a tremendous matchup. Both of these guys have had outstanding careers so far. This is what our sport is all about, bringing two great champions together, fighting in the prime of their careers.

“On paper, this a 50-50 fight. I think both guys are fighting the best opponent they’ve seen in their career. Adrien is going to have to be on his A-game, and I expect him to be at his best for a guy with the talent of Mikey. But Adrien Broner is the real deal too. Not too many can deal with him at his best.

“If you look back at all the outstanding programs that SHOWTIME has brought to us and continues to bring to us, this is what boxing is all about. Champions fighting champions. The vision is to bring big-time boxing back with great events like this.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & GM, SHOWTIME Sports

“This is a special fight. You have two of the brightest young stars in boxing sharing the ring. A few years ago Adrien decided that he was going up to 147-pounds. He took one of Robert Garcia’s fighters, Marcos Maidana. They obviously had a great training camp because Marcos looked fantastic and it just wasn’t Adrien’s night. Most fighters would have packed it in after the first three or four rounds. That’s not what Adrien did though, he fought even harder. What I saw that night, was Adrien Broner’s heart. I will never doubt what Adrien Broner brings to the table.

“Mikey is in his own quiet way very similar. There are a lot of situations where fighters aren’t happy with a promoter. More often than not the fighter doesn’t stick to his principles. What Mikey did for two and a half years, shows you what kind of backbone he has. He knew what was right and what was wrong. Now, he’s in charge of his own career.

“I’m here today because I know this will be a good fight. I know that neither guy will back down, they’re both going to give it their all and they’re going to bring out the best in each other.”

# # #

ABOUT BRONER vs. GARCIA
Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia is a 12-round super lightweight showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.

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

ORANGE, Calif. (June 20, 2017) – Junior lightweight Michael Dutchover (4-0, 4 KOs), a highly accomplished amateur and recently turned professional, highlights Friday night’s “Path to Glory” undercard from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Watch Dutchover vs. Carrizoza and the rest of the 6-fight card on TB Presents: Path To Glory, live streaming on ThompsonBoxing.com and Facebook Live beginning at 7:45 p.m. PST / 10:45 p.m. EST.

Tickets for “Path to Glory” are priced at $40, $60, & $100 and are available for purchase online at ThompsonBoxing.com, or by calling 714-935-0900.

Dutchover, who trains in Southern California but resides in Midland, Tex., faces his toughest opponent to date: once-beaten Miguel Carrizoza (10-1, 2 KOs) of Hermosillo, Mex.

The bout marks Dutchover’s second 6-round fight of his young career. He stormed into the paid ranks with four straight knockout wins.

“The plan this year is to up my level of competition,” said Dutchover, who recently sparred with world title challenger Petr Petrov. “I know I’m ready for the challenge. I want to work my way to the top, and in order to do that I need to challenge myself.”

Dutchover had a successful amateur run that saw him win nine national titles, a bronze at the 2015 U.S. Olympic Trials, and a runner-up finish at last year’s National Golden Gloves competition. Dutchover, 19, believes he was built to fight professionally.

“As an amateur, I often boxed in the pro-style,” said Dutchover, who counts Danny Zamora, older brother Junior Dutchover, and Javier Gomez as coaches. “I didn’t really throw a lot of quick, small punches that define the amateurs. I was more aggressive in my approach. I worked the body and threw a lot of power shots.”

Detailed opponent scouting reports in the early years of a boxer’s professional career are often not available. Dutchover has an idea of what to expect from Carrizoza, but he will rely mostly on his extensive amateur background.

“I had such a long amateur career that I’ve seen basically every style in the book,” said Dutchover, who is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. “I’m going to adapt in the ring and be prepared for whatever he brings. I had an excellent training camp. I’m in great shape and ready to go after another win.”

“We are looking forward to Micheal stepping up in competition on Friday night,” said Matthew Rowland, Vice-President of Banner Promotions. “Michael has shown that he is ready for this challenge, and we expect another terrific performance.”

Photo Credit: Carlos Baeza /Thompson Boxing Promotions.

LOS ANGELES (June 20, 2017) – Tickets for the Saturday, Sept. 16 showdown for supremacy between lineal and RING Magazine Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (49-1-1, 34 KOs) and IBO/IBF/WBA/WBC Middleweight World Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin (37-0, 33 KOs), for which fans have been clamoring, will go on sale Thursday, June 22 at 10:00 a.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. ET. In what may be boxing’s best, most competitive fight in 2017, the mega-event will feature two of the most popular and powerful fighters in the storied middleweight division fighting for ultimate supremacy and glory.

Tickets for Canelo vs. Golovkin are priced at $5,000, $2,500, $2,000, $1,500, $800, $700, $500 and $300, not including applicable service charges and taxes. There will be a limit of 10 per person at the $5,000, $2,500, $2,000, $1,500, $800, $700 price levels and a limit of two (2) per person at the $500 and $300 price levels. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849). Tickets also will be available for purchase at www.t-mobilearena.com or www.axs.com.

Canelo vs. Golovkin is a 12-round fight for the middleweight championship of the world presented by Golden Boy Promotions and GGG Promotions and sponsored by Tecate, BORN BOLD, Hennessy, Never Stop, Never Settle, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Tsesnabank and Capital Holding. The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 16 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.hbo.com/boxing; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @gggboxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @hboboxing and @TomLoeffler1; become a fan on Facebook www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, https://www.Facebook.com/gggboxing/ and www.Facebook.com/HBOboxing;f ollow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @canelo, @gggboxing, @HBOboxing and @OscarDeLaHoya; and follow the conversation using #CaneloGGG.

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

Matchroom Boxing and Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer are proud to announce the new edition of Monte-Carlo Boxing Bonanza – a night of World Championship Boxing in the prestigious Salle Médecin of the Casino de Monte-Carlo on Saturday November 4, live on Sky Sports.

The stunning Monaco setting will host World Championship Boxing for a fourth year in a row, with Kazakh superstar Gennady Golovkin headlining there in 2014 and 2015.

It’s a welcome return for Matchroom Boxing after a successful night in November with two fiercely contested world title fights between Jamie McDonnell and Liberio Solis, Stephen Smith and Jason Sosa, a win at Super-Middleweight for Martin Murray and the European debut of Luis Ortiz.

“I am delighted to be returning to Monaco on November 4 for another Monte-Carlo Boxing Bonanza,” said Eddie Hearn. “This time we will be staging this exclusive event from the magnificent Casino de Monte-Carlo for a black tie event to be remembered. We will be bringing together major names from the boxing world for another evening of World Championship Boxing – keep the date free!”

“The Casino de Monte-Carlo is thrilled to welcome again the Monte-Carlo Boxing Bonanza in its iconic private gaming room and to take an active part in the organization of this international event,” said Pascal Camia, Executive Vice President, Gaming Operations. “This outstanding tournament contributes in positioning Casino de Monte-Carlo as a stunning place for extraordinary events.”

Details on the line-up and tickets will be released in the summer.

Natasha Jonas has signed a promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing and will make her professional debut in Newcastle on Friday night in the JDNXTGEN series, live on Sky Sports Facebook and Sky Sports.

Jonas created history in London 2012 as the first female boxer to compete in the Olympics and the Liverpool star became the latest figurehead in women’s boxing to turn over and meets Poland’s Monika Antonik on her debut.

Jonas, who turned 32 yesterday, is targeting titles in her first year in the paid ranks, and could be on a collision course with old Olympic rival Katie Taylor.

“I can’t wait to get started on Friday night,” said Jonas. “I want to get to the top of the game once again so it’s great to get going before the summer and we can hit the ground running in the new season.

“It’s always the target to aim high and as long as I put the work in with Joe in the gym, the sky is the limit.

“Throughout my career I’ve been breaking down barriers and I’ve never felt out of place. I know the drive and determination that I’ve got inside of me.

“Katie has set the bar in women’s boxing and everyone has aspired to be like her. Whatever she’s done and wherever she goes she sets a good example. I’m not here to be in anyone’s shadow but I take my hat off to everything that she’s done as an amateur and now as a pro.

“Training with Joe has been fantastic. Training alongside some of the best fighters in the country, World Champions and unbeaten boxers, I am watching them and picking up their good habits. I’ve been out for a long time but I feel ready to go now.

“Liverpool has always backed their athletes and the response has been fantastic. Whenever I fight at home the fans come out in force and I hope that I can fight there as a pro in the new season.”

“I’m delighted to welcome Tasha to the team and excited to see her fight on Friday in Newcastle,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “There is an obvious super fight with Katie Taylor down the road but firstly we want to progress Tasha in the pro ranks and target her own world title first. She has looked excellent in camp with Joe and I’m looking forward to watching her perform under the lights.”

Jonas’ pro debut is part of the second instalment of the JDNXTGEN series, topped by Josh Kelly’s third pro fight against Tom Whitfield.

A host of local stars appear on the bill as former World champion Stuart Hall as he looks to build to another World title shot, Bradley Saunders returns to the ring, unbeaten Super-Middleweight Jordan King looks to build on his 8-0 start, Cruiserweight pair Simon Vallily and Warren Baister continue their assault on the division, while Preston’s Super-Welterweight Scott Fitzgerald is also in action.

Tickets are on sale now priced £30 unreserved balcony, £40 unreserved tier, £60 reserved floor seats and £100 reserved VIP seats – tickets are available from www.matchroomboxing.com.

BoxNation has secured the exclusive UK Pay-per-view broadcast rights for the most eagerly-anticipated fight in generations between two-division World Champion Canelo Alvarez and IBF, WBA and WBC Middleweight World Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin.

The pair are set for a colossal clash on September 16th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, in a fight that has fans across the World captivated, and today began their international promotional tour at a major press conference at The Landmark London hotel.

Details of how UK fight fans can watch the biggest fight in boxing on BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, will be released in due course.

“I’ve never feared anyone, since I was 16, fighting as a professional,” said Canelo. “When I was born, fear was gone. I never got my share of fear. I’m very happy, and the rivalry will show my skills even more. I am thrilled to return to the T-Mobile Arena, and to give the fans the best fight that can be made in our sport today. We know how dangerous Golovkin is and I have a lot of respect for him, but we are looking for the knockout on September 16th.”

“I feel very excited; in September, it will be a different style big drama show,” said Golovkin. “I’m ready. This is a fight that the boxing World has demanded for a long time and I am happy we are finally facing each other. This is 100% the biggest challenge of my career. Good luck to Canelo in September.”

“Canelo versus Golovkin features two of the most explosive, heavy handed fighters in any division,” said Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “Both fighters have the type of action-packed style that fans clamour for. This is a mega-fight that will attract fans from all around the World. Canelo fears no man and will prove it when he steps in the ring with Golovkin.”

“This is the result of many years of hard work for Gennady, travelling around the World fighting World Champions and top contenders to become an undefeated Unified Middleweight World Champion,” said Tom Loeffler of GGG Promotions. “Gennady’s reward, and the fans’ reward, will be battling in the biggest and best match-up in the sport of boxing. Gennady is ready for his date with destiny.”

“This is THE fight of 2017,” said BoxNation Chairman Frank Warren. “It is a privilege for me to sit here with these two brilliant fighters. This is no freak show; it is a real fight between two of the biggest punchers in the World. Both fighters are at the top of their game and for me it has become a fifty-fifty fight over the last few months. I think fans are going to be in for a massive treat on September 16th and it is a delight for us to be involved in this colossal event.”

BROOKLYN (June 19, 2017) – Four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner and three-division world champion Mikey Garcia went face-to-face for the first time Monday before they battle in one of the premier matchups of the summer that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.

Tickets to the event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $950, $750, $350, $300, $250, $150, $75, and $50 (not including applicable fees), are on sale now, and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com, barclayscenter.com or by calling 800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

The fighters spoke to media at Dream Hotel Downtown in Manhattan to discuss their 140-pound clash that will headline an exciting night of action later this summer.

Here is what the participants had to say Monday:

ADRIEN BRONER

“I want to thank everyone who showed up today. I’ve been in some crazy situations and I’m blessed to be here. To get a fight like this is huge. Boxing is going back to the old days where the best fight the best. Mikey is definitely one of the best out there today.

“This can take our careers to the next level. I’m taking this seriously. I’ve been training in Colorado Springs. The weight will not be a problem. This gives me a reason to make 140. I’m not paying a man to put hands on me.

“I’m training hard and I think this will be one of the best performances of my career. This will take me to the superstar level where I need to be. I heard Mikey is a big favorite – they aren’t giving me much of a chance. I hope no one puts their house against me on this fight, because it won’t work out well for you.

“This fight will definitely bring the best out of me, because Mikey isn’t a sloppy fighter, he isn’t an awkward fighter. Don’t get me wrong, he’s a Mexican, but he boxes like an African American. We’re going to have a nice fight and I can’t wait to put on a show.

“When you’ve got two athletic fighters that have skills, it can only bring the best out of each other. And the cream always comes to the top.

“I’m more focused this training camp. There are so many distractions in Cincinnati or D.C. There is nothing to do in Colorado but look at the mountains and box.

“It’s going to be a great fight. Robert Garcia is a great trainer for his little brother. We’re both undefeated at 140-pounds and under. Something has to break. I want everyone to tune in on July 29. You will see a real serious Adrien Broner in the ring. It might get ugly for Mikey on July 29.”

MIKEY GARCIA

“I’m very thankful for this opportunity. I can’t stress the importance of this fight enough. It’s the biggest fight that I could have. There are other names that are out there, but nothing made more sense than facing Adrien Broner.

“Adrien has accomplished a lot and when he’s at his best, he’s really great. That’s what I expect on July 29. I see that he’s taking this seriously by moving camp to Colorado. I expect him to bring the best out of me and give the fans the best fight possible.

“The fans here in New York have always treated me well and it’s a fan base that just really loves boxing. The fans are what make me a world champion. I owe it to them to perform to the best of my abilities. I’m going to come ready on July 29 so that this fight is remembered as one of the best of the year.

“I think he is motivated because it’s a big fight, one where he can try to get his career back on track and try to be a superstar like he has been in past big fights. He didn’t perform so well in his past fight against [Adrian] Granados and this is an opportunity for him to jump back and be a superstar again. And I think that’s what’s motivating him for this fight.

“The weight makes sense to me for this type of fight. 135-pounds is probably my best division, but I don’t think this will be much different. I’ll make weight a little more comfortably and still keep my speed and power.

“I’ll do whatever it takes to win this fight. I’m more of a boxer-puncher but if I need to press the fight and put pressure on, I’m going to be ready to do that.

“I know that we definitely have to be in the best shape possible. I am not going to take this lightly. I am not thinking it’s going to be an easy win for me. I think it’s going to be a tough fight. I believe he’s going to be ready 100% and that’s going to make it a tough fight for me but overall I think I’m the better fighter, better boxer and I’ll have enough tools to bring in the ring with me.

“Adrien is going to come to beat me and I’m coming 100 percent to beat him. The fans will be the winner on fight night, but my hand will be raised.”

MIKE STAFFORD, Broner’s Trainer

“These are two really talented fighters and they’re going to put on a big show. We know Mikey is going to be prepared so we are going to do everything we can to be ready.

“Being in Colorado for training is like home for me and Adrien. This is what we’ve done since he was 18-years-old. Expect the same thing as every time before when he comes focused and prepared.

“Adrien is going to win and win real big. It’s going to be a tough fight, but we’ll be victorious when that final bell rings.”

ROBERT GARCIA, Garcia’s Brother & Trainer

“Every time Mikey and I come to New York we get nothing but love. We know Adrien is very talented and that’s why Mikey said yes to this fight. It took less than 30 seconds for him to agree.

“Mikey wants nothing else but big fights and we have one here. Expect a hell of a fight on July 29. I know we’re both going to be in great shape on fight night.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“I love this fight. This is why we do this job. We want to make sensational fights like this for the fans to enjoy.

“Adrien Broner has spent a lot of time at the top of the sport while Mikey Garcia has made his way back to that top tier emphatically since returning last year.

“Mikey has insane amounts of talent. He’s a tremendous ambassador for the sport and he can do everything in the ring.

“Adrien Broner is a star. He’s ‘The Problem’ and sometimes he’s his own biggest problem. He’s an entertainer. People hate him but they pay to see him. He gets a lot of love and he gets a lot of hate. That’s worked for a lot of guys in this sport over the years. People care about him.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & GM, SHOWTIME Sports

“The bar has been set so high when you look at this year in boxing. It’s a high bar to get a main event at Barclays Center. The standard is very high and this fight certainly satisfies it. Two of boxing’s brightest young stars, both under 30 years old matching up against each other.

“This is the 19th live boxing event on SHOWTIME this year. Three world title unification, three world title rematches and six times where a top five fighter has fought another top five fighter in the division. We’re proud to bring you these two fighters on SHOWTIME. I give the fighters all the credit in the world for taking this fight. These guys are ready for big fights and they are proving it.”

BRETT YORMARK, CEO, Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment

“On July 29, Barclays Center will host its fourth major card of 2017. There is a great heritage of boxing in New York and I’m proud that Barclays Center is the number one boxing venue in the country. It has become a destination for the sport’s best talent, with Adrien and Mikey being two prime examples of that.

“I’m looking forward to one of the year’s most talked about fights. Adrien won a world title at Barclays Center and Mikey made his comeback there just last year. July 29 will be a special night not just for Brooklyn boxing, but for all boxing fans.

“Fights fans everywhere have already circled July 29 on their calendars and I look forward to seeing everyone next month.”
# # #

ABOUT BRONER vs. GARCIA
Adrien Broner vs. Mikey Garcia is a 12-round super lightweight showdown that headlines SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Saturday, July 29 live on SHOWTIME. Broner vs. Garcia is presented by Premier Boxing Champions at Barclays Center, the home of BROOKLYN BOXING®.

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

CHICAGO (June 19, 2017) – After a successful pilot that was viewed by more than 40,000 boxing fans live on Facebook, FIGHTNIGHT LIVE hits the Chicago area on Friday, June 23, from Rosemont, Ill., with hardware on the line in a rematch of a hotly-contested draw as Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez (20-1-1, 14 KOs) and “Son of the Legend” Aaron Pryor, Jr. (19-10-2, 12 KOs) square off in a ten-round main event for the WBC Continental Americas Super Middleweight Championship.

Longtime Chicago fan favorite and perennial contender Donovan “Da Bomb” George, (25-7-2, 22 KOs) will join his previously-announced #BOMBSQUAD teammate Jimenez in an eight-round light heavyweight co-feature. Undefeated in his hometown of Chicago, George will be fighting locally for the first time in three years, facing off against area arch-nemesis Derrick “Superman” Findley (26-21-1, 17 KOs) of Gary, Indiana.

Legendary Chicago-based National Anthem singer Jim Cornelison will once again honor our country prior to the start of the main event – fans can catch that highly-anticipated performance along with all of the action in the ring live on Facebook.

“It’s a tremendous honor to take our Facebook FIGHTNIGHT LIVE platform to the Windy City area. It’s becoming a national platform already during its infancy – with East Coast and West Coast dates on the calendar and now this opportunity in the No. 3 media market in America – and we’ve been thrilled with the response from fight fans so far,” said Mark Fratto, Principal of Linacre Media. “We’re looking forward to working with the Village of Rosemont, as well as legendary promoters like Bobby Hitz and Frank Mugnolo on this card.”

The numbers on the May 11 FIGHTNIGHT LIVE pilot from Mohegan Sun Resort showed promise and potential for the new platform. With only two days of promotion, the premiere broadcast amassed 43,000 total video views by 38,000 unique viewers. A total of 1.4 thousand hours of LIVE video was consumed by Facebook users during the first show alone. In addition to the raw numbers, the fully-interactive, fan-friendly production saw 9,021 live post engagements for the show, which included 5,000 “likes” or “loves,” 2,989 comments and 628 shares.

On Friday night, June 23, live from The Dome at The Ballpark in Rosemont, fans can expect a high-impact, multi-camera streaming experience complete with graphics, animations, replays, interviews and an announce team anchored by blow-by-blow announcer Ray Flores of Premier Boxing Champions, Showtime Boxing, HBO Boxing and CBS Sports Network boxing fame. To provide spectators with a fully-interactive ringside experience, commentators will ask and respond to questions from the Facebook audience throughout the broadcast.

Joining the broadcast team will be world-ranked light heavyweight, Mike Lee.

University of Notre Dame alum Lee (19-0, 10 KOs) is ranked No. 12 by the WBO, No. 12 by the IBF and No. 14 by the WBC, and was originally scheduled to be in the main event but now joins Flores for expert analysis. Television host Danielle Robay of WCIU-Chicago and Entertainment Tonight, NBC-4 Los Angeles and HLN-fame will bring fans exclusive pre-and post-fight interviews from ringside.

Created and produced by Linacre Media out of New York City, the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE series features multiple camera angles, graphics, replays and behind-the-scenes access and interviews. The streamed shows are available globally wherever Facebook is available. The initiative not only enables fans from around the world to tune in, but also gives up-and-coming fighters a global platform to showcase their abilities, gives promoters an accessible “broadcast” solution and gives sponsors the ability to reach a mass audience via branded content.

A July 15 date in Phoenix, Ariz., with Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions has already been released on the FIGHTNIGHT LIVE calendar. FIGHTNIGHT LIVE strap season continues on Saturday, July 29, in Raleigh, N.C., as Tar Heel State undefeated super flyweight Dewayne Beamon competes for the IBO Inter-Continental and UBF World Junior Bantamweight titles. More FIGHTNIGHT LIVE dates will be officially announced in the coming weeks.

FIGHTNIGHT LIVE is available online at: https://www.facebook.com/FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE/

Follow all the action via social media at FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Facebook, @FaceFIGHTNIGHTLIVE on Instagram and @FIGHTNIGHTLIVE_ on Twitter, or by using the hashtag#FIGHTNIGHTLIVE. For the latest Linacre Media events and broadcast schedule, follow @LinacreMedia across all social platforms or use the tags #LinacreMediaEvents or#LinacreMediaOnTV.

Chicago, IL (June 19, 2017) Chicago fan favorites MIKE “HOLLYWOOD” JIMENEZ, (20-1-1, 14 KO’s) and DONOVAN “DA BOMB” GEORGE, (25-7-2, 22 KO’s) will co-headline at the ROSEMONT RUMBLE in separate bouts this Friday, June 23 at “The Dome at the Ballpark” in Rosemont, Illinois, just outside of Chicago.

Jimenez battles ‘Son of the Legend’, AARON PRYOR JR., (19-10-2), of Cincinnati, Ohio in a rematch of their hotly contested draw from last year in Chicago in a 10-round super middleweight clash for the WBC Continental Americas Title.

George will battle local arch-rival and upset minded DERRICK “SUPERMAN” FINDLEY, (26-21-1, 17 KO’s), of Gary, Indiana, in an eight round light heavyweight co-feature.

Previously announced world ranked and undefeated light heavyweight MIKE LEE, (19-0-0, 10 KO’s) suffered an unfortunate injury in training this past week and will not be fighting at this event.

Lee however will join nationally known and Chicago based ring announcer and commentator RAY FLORES on the telecast of the entire event which will air on the acclaimed, new “FIGHTNIGHT LIVE” on FACEBOOK series, broadcast free of charge.

Also featured on “FIGHTNIGHT LIVE” as host of the event will be Entertainment Tonight’s DANIELLE ROBAY. Fight fans can view the entire event by clicking HERE.

Advance tickets for ROSEMONT RUMBLE, presented by Hitz Boxing and Round 3 Productions, priced at $150, $100 and $40, can be purchased through HitzBoxing.com. Also available are VIP Tables of 10 for $2,000.

Further details on an exciting undercard will be announced shortly.

‘The Dome at the Ballpark’ is located at 27 Jennie Finch Way, Rosemont, IL 60018 — on Bryn Mawr Avenue, one mile west of River Road in Rosemont. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. CT with the first bell at 7:00 p.m. CT.

SOCIAL MEDIA HASHTAG
#RosemontRumble

LOS ANGELES (June 19, 2017) — Hall of Fame promoter BOB ARUM will be “barnstorming” ESPN today, talking about Fighter of the Decade MANNY “Pacman” PACQUIAO’s first non-pay-per-view fight since 2005. Pacquiao (59-6-2, 38 KOs), of General Santos City, Philippines, boxing’s only eight-division world champion and the only sitting Senator to capture a world championship belt, will make his live debut on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (also streaming live on the ESPN app) defending his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title against undefeated No. 1 contender, mandatory challenger and Australia’s favorite son JEFF “The Hornet” HORN (16-0-1, 11 KOs), from Brisbane, Saturday, July 1 at 10:00 p.m. ET. This will be the first time Pacquiao has not fought on pay-per-view since. Sept. 10, 2005, when he stopped Hector Velazquez in the sixth round — 12 years and four weight divisions ago.

Below, please find the list of Arum’s live appearances on ESPN today

§ 9:05 a.m. ET “Mike and Mike”
§ 10:40 a.m. ET “First Take”
§ 2:30 p.m. ET “Sports Nation”
§ 4:00 p.m. ET “Jalen & Jacoby”

*************************************

The ESPN/ESPN Deportes live telecast of “The Battle of Brisbane” will emanate from Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia, where a record crowd of 55,000+ fans is expected. In addition to the Pacquiao-Horn WBO welterweight world title fight, the ESPN/ESPN Deportes live telecast will also feature Irish Olympic hero MICHAEL CONLAN (2-0, 2 KOs), from Belfast, in a six-round featherweight bout against JARRETT “Juarez” OWEN (5-4-3, 2 KOs), of Brisbane, and International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior bantamweight world champion JERWIN “Pretty Boy” ANCAJAS (24-1-1, 16 KOs), of Cavite City, Philippines, defending his title against top-rated contender TEIRU KINOSHITA (25-1-1, 8 KOs), of Kobe, Japan. The live telecast will open with an eight-round middleweight rumble between SHANE MOSLEY, JR. (10-1, 7 KOs), of Pomona, Calif. and son of former three-division world champion “Sugar” Shane Mosley, and DAVID TOUSSAINT (10-0, 8 KOs), of Canberra, Australia.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, facebook.com/espndeportes; Twitter twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, @ESPN, @ESPNBoxeo, @ESPNDeportes. Join the conversation #PacHorn.

Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao, boxing’s only eight-division world champion and the only sitting Senator to capture a world championship belt, will add another first to his burgeoning list of Hall of Fame-caliber accomplishments with his live debut on ESPN and ESPN Deportes (also streaming live on the ESPN app) on Saturday, July 1 at 10:00 p.m. ET. The fight will be called ringside by ESPN commentators Joe Tessitore and Teddy Atlas. They will be joined by guest analyst Timothy Bradley, Jr., a former two-division world champion recently trained by Teddy Atlas who has met Pacquiao three times in the ring, winning their first match in a decision. ESPN Deportes will pair Jorge Eduardo Sanchez and Juan Manuel Marquez to call the main event in Spanish, with prefight commentary from Pablo Viruega, Leopoldo Gonzalez, Claudia Trejos and Juan Manuel Marquez.

Pacquiao, the Boxing Writers Association of America’s reigning Fighter of the Decade, will defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight crown against undefeated No. 1 contender and Brisbane’s favorite son Jeff “The Hornet” Horn at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, Australia. This will be the first time Pacquiao has not fought on pay-per-view since Sept. 10, 2005, when he stopped Hector Velazquez in the sixth round — 12 years and four weight divisions ago.

ESPN’s coverage of “The Battle of Brisbane” will begin on Friday, June 30th, and includes live coverage of the Pacquiao and Horn weigh-in at 7 p.m. ET within SportsCenter on ESPN and within Golpe a Golpe on ESPN Deportes. During the week of June 26, classic Pacquiao fights will also be available on demand and streaming via the ESPN app, on both ESPN and ESPN Deportes, including Pacquiao vs. Ricky Hatton (5/2/2009), Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez (11/12/11) and Pacquiao vs. Tim Bradley (4/12/14).

The July 1 telecast will also feature Irish Olympic hero Michael Conlan (2-0, 2 KOs), from Belfast, in a six-round featherweight bout against Jarrett “Juarez” Owen (5-4-3, 2 KOs), of Brisbane, and International Boxing Federation (IBF) junior bantamweight world champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas (24-1-1, 16 KOs), of Cavite City, Philippines, defending his title against top-rated contender Teiru Kinoshita (25-1-1, 8 KOs), of Kobe, Japan. The live telecast will open with an eight-round middleweight rumble between Shane Mosley, Jr. (10-1, 7 KOs), of Pomona, Calif. and son of former three-division world champion “Sugar” Shane Mosley, and David Toussaint (10-0, 8 KOs), of Canberra, Australia.

Saturday, July 1st on ESPN and ESPN Deportes

9 p.m. – 10 p.m. ET: Top Rank Boxing: Undercards & Main Event Preview

Shane Mosley, Jr. vs. David Toussaint
10 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. ET: Top Rank Boxing: Main Event

Michael Conlan vs. Jarrett Owen
Jerwin Ancajas vs. Teiru Kinoshita
Manny Pacquiao vs. Jeff “The Hornet” Horn
Sunday, July 2nd on ESPN Deportes

12:30 a.m. – 2 a.m. ET – SportsCenter

“Working with Top Rank on a match normally seen on pay-per-view is a significant moment for ESPN and for boxing fans,” said ESPN President John Skipper. “This fight, along with ESPN’s in-depth programming surrounding the fight, joins Wimbledon, Home Run Derby and the ESPYs in a stellar early July programming lineup.”

“The world has followed amazing Manny since he burst onto scene in his U.S. debut in 2001, where he knocked out Lehlo Ledwaba to win his second of a record eight division world titles. We are excited that ESPN will air this fight throughout the U.S. in both English and Spanish. It’s going to be an unbelievable event,” said Hall of Fame promoter Bob Arum.

“Manny Pacquiao has been one of the biggest global sports stars of his era, setting attendance and pay-per-view records for over the past decade. Now, as he defends his world title in front of yet another anticipated record crowd, he will be doing it to his biggest U.S. television audience on the world’s biggest and most prestigious sports network, ESPN,” said Todd duBoef, president of Top Rank. “To have ESPN, which has treated its viewers to NFL, College Football Playoff and NBA playoff games, add Manny’s title fight to its roster is the biggest compliment one can give to Manny’s star power and a great gift to sports fans.”

Promoted by Top Rank® and Duco Events, in association with MP Promotions, “The Battle of Brisbane: Pacquiao vs. Horn” is expected to attract a sellout crowd of 55,000 fans, eclipsing the previous Australian record of 38,000 set on March 1, 1992 when Azumah Nelson stopped Jeff Fenech in the eighth round to retain his World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight title. The battle between the two Hall of Famers took place at Princes Park in Melbourne.

Pacquiao (59-6-2, 38 KOs), a former two-term congressman, was elected to a Philippine Senate seat in May 2016, capturing over 16 million votes nationally. An international icon, Pacquiao is the only fighter to win eight world titles in as many different weight divisions. A three-time Fighter of the Year and the reigning BWAA “Fighter of the Decade,” Pacquiao’s resumé features victories over present and future Hall of Famers, including Oscar De La Hoya, Ricky Hatton, Marco Antonio Barrera, Erik Morales, Miguel Cotto, Shane Mosley, Juan Manuel Marquez and Timothy Bradley. From 2008 to 2010, five of his seven victories were world title victories in five different weight classes, ranging from 130 to 154 pounds. No active boxer has sold more live tickets in the U.S. than Pacquiao, who is also credited with over 18 million domestic pay-per-view buys. After his disappointing unanimous decision loss to Floyd Mayweather, Jr. on May 2, 2015, a world championship fight that generated a record 4.5 million pay-per-view buys and over $400 million in television revenue alone, a healthy Pacquiao (he had suffered a torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder during the fourth round of the Mayweather fight) returned to the winner’s circle on April 9, 2016, winning the rubber match against five-time world champion Bradley. In a battle of Top-10 pound for pound fighters, Pacquiao sent Bradley to the canvas twice en route to a dominant 12-round unanimous decision victory. On Nov. 5, Pacquiao regained the WBO welterweight title for a third time when he shellacked the once-defeated defending champion Jessie Vargas via another dominant 12-round unanimous decision. Pacquiao has been trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach since 2001.

Horn (16-0-1, 11 KOs), from Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, enters the fight of his life having won his last three battles — all in 2016 — against Ali Funeka, Rico Mueller and Randall Bailey, inside the distance. They had a combined record of 105-14-4 when he fought them. The 2012 Australian Olympian’s background belies the warrior he has become inside the ring. Well-schooled inside and outside the ring, Horn received his Bachelor of Education degree from Griffith University and taught high school Physical Education even as he embarked on his professional boxing career. He began boxing at age 18 after being picked on by bullies and has been an advocate of anti-bullying campaigns. Immensely popular throughout Australia, Horn, 29, has become a national gate attraction in his own right. Selected the Australian Boxer of the Year in 2015, Horn is trained and managed by Glenn Rushton, the only trainer he has ever had, and assisted by former WBC super welterweight world champion John “The Beast” Mugabi.

For more information visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, facebook.com/espndeportes; Twitter twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, @ESPN @ESPNBoxeo @ESPNDeportes. Join the conversation #PacHorn.

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 17, 2017) The Super Flyweight Division, long one of boxing’s most exciting, filled with many of the sports’ legendary superstars, will add another chapter into its annals of memorable evenings on Saturday, September 9.

WBC Super Flyweight World Champion SRISAKET SOR RUNGVISAI, (43-4-1, 39 KO’s), of Si Sa Ket, Thailand, defends his title against former champion “ROMAN “CHOCOLATITO” GONZALEZ (46-1-0, 38 KO’s), of Managua, Nicaragua, in a rematch of their epic battle this past March. The rematch headlines a tripleheader that will be televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:15 p.m. ET/PT.

Co-featured on the outstanding “SUPERFLY” card is the highly anticipated United States debut of NAOYA “THE MONSTER” INOUE, (13-0-0, 11 KO’s) of Yokohama, Japan defending his WBO Super Flyweight Title against top contender ANTONIO “CARITA” NIEVES, (17-1-2, 9 KO’s) of Cleveland, Ohio.

Opening the telecast, former WBC Super Flyweight World Champion CARLOS “PRINCIPE” CUADRAS, (36-1-1, 27 KO’s)) of Mexico City will battle fellow rival countrymen and former flyweight world champion JUAN FRANCISCO “EL GALLO” ESTRADA, (35-2-0, 25 KO’s) of Sonora, Mexico.

The venue location and ticket information will be announced shortly.

“We’re very excited to present this fantastic triple header featuring the top five super flyweights in the world,” said TOM LOEFFLER of K2 PROMOTIONS. “With the great history of memorable bouts in the super flyweight combined with the extraordinary talents of these six fighters in these two world championship fights along with the world title eliminator, the fans will truly be the winners of this event.”

“Boxing fans will have the rare opportunity to see if the new champion, Sor Rungvisai can repeat his performance with another victory or if ‘Chocolatito’ will prove that he still belongs at the top of the pound-for-pound list by avenging a controversial loss.”

“We have had great interest from numerous venues wishing to host this event, we are currently working through the locations and will have a site and ticket announcement shortly.”

“Thanks very much to Peter Nelson of HBO for his continued foresight and interest in the lighter weight divisions which has influenced this tremendous event with the top five fighters in the super flyweight division being showcased.”

“This all-action super flyweight tripleheader will have fight fans eagerly awaiting September 9th,” says Peter Nelson, Executive Vice President, HBO Sports. “We applaud all six fighters for their willingness to lace up their gloves to face the very best.”

“I would like to thank WBC, HBO, and K2 promotion for this opportunity,” said Srisaket Sor Rungvisai. “I’m honored to share the ring again and defend the WBC Super Flyweight Title against Roman Gonzalez. He is a legend and the best fighter I have faced.”

“I’m training hard to be the winner of this rematch. Boxing fans around the world will get to see another great fight between us, and I will win and take the WBC World Championship title back for everyone in Thailand.”

“I’m ready to go back into battle and reclaim by WBC Super Flyweight Championship from Sor Rungvisai on September 9,” said ‘Chocolatito’. “I know what I have to do to become victorious and with God’s help I will be champion once again.”

“As always thanks very much to Mr. Honda, K2 Promotions and HBO for this opportunity.”

On March 18, 2017, ‘Chocolatito’, universally recognized as The #1 Pound-for-Pound Fighter in the World and holder of the WBC Super Flyweight Title, battled Srisaket Sor Rungivisai in front of a massive crowd at ‘The Mecca of Boxing’, Madison Square Garden.

Despite being dropped in the first round, the valiant ‘Chocolatito’ battled back in a brutal war that included a tremendous amount of hard-hitting from both combatants along with a number of head butts due to the aggressive styles of the orthodox champion and southpaw challenger.

Sor Rungvisai was declared the winner by controversial majority decision, 114-112, 114-112 and 113-113 in a fight that many believe to be the leading candidate for this year’s “Fight of the Year.”

The World Boxing Council (WBC) ordered an immediate rematch so there would be no question who their champion would be.

Stated Naoya Inoue about his title defense and first bout in the United States, “It’s been my dream to fight in the United States and I’m very excited to be defending my title against Antonio Nieves on September 9. I look forward to putting on a great performance for the fans.”

“I’m very excited to face Naoya Inoue for the WBO Super Flyweight Title on September 9,” said Antonio Nieves. “This is my first world title opportunity and I’m very grateful to HBO, Tom Loeffler and Tim VanNewhouse for making this possible.”

The 24-year-old Inoue is among the most popular fighters in Asia, having already made five defenses of his WBO Super Flyweight Title he was awarded following his second round knockout of Omar Narvaez on December 30, 2014 in Tokyo, Japan.

Earning his nickname, “The Monster” from his heavy handed knockouts, Inoue is seeking to grow his fan base from the huge Asian community of U.S. based boxing fans.

Inoue kicked off his 2017 campaign with a third round stoppage of Ricardo Rodriguez on May 21 in Tokyo, Japan.

Fighting out of Cleveland, Ohio, Nieves will be looking to join the long history of world champions of Puerto Rican heritage. Undefeated through the first six years of his professional career, Nieves suffered his first loss very controversially, losing a 10-round split decision to Nikolai Potapov on March 10 in Detroit, Michigan.

Stated Carlos Cuadras, “I can’t wait to get back in the ring on September 9 against Juan Estrada. He’s a very tough fighter but I will be victorious and put on a show for the fans, then I want a fight with whoever is the champion ‘Chocolatito’ or Sor Rungvisai to get my belt back.”

“Carlos Cuadras is a great Champion and we will have a great fight but he is just the first step towards me becoming the best super flyweight in the world! See you September 9,” said Juan Francisco Estrada.

In a 2016 ‘Fight of the Year’ contender, former WBC Super Flyweight Champion Cuadras would lose for the first time in his eight-year career on September 10, 2016 by unanimous decision to Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez. Fighting furiously over the course of the twelve epic rounds in front of a huge crowd at The Fabulous Forum, Cuadras would come up just short on the scorecards losing by unanimous decision.

Most recently, Cuadras won a hard fought 10-round unanimous decision over fellow Mexican David Carmona on March 18, 2017 at Madison Square Garden in New York City.

A former unified flyweight world champion, Estrada is best known for his action packed 12-round battle with Roman Gonzalez on November 17, 2012 in Los Angeles, losing a very close decision. Estrada also holds wins over former world champions Brian Viloria, Giovani Segura and Hernan Marquez.

SOCIAL MEDIA:
Hashtag: #SuperFly

TWITTER:
@ChocolatitoBox
@CuadrasOficial
@TomLoeffler1
@HBO
@HBOBoxing

Fight # 1 – 18:10 hrs
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Middleweight Contest
SEAN McGLINCHEY 164.8 lbs V DAN BLACKWELL

Fight # 2
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Welterweight Contest
LEWIS CROCKER 150.9 lbs V RADOSLAV MITEV

Fight # 3
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Heavyweight Contest
ALEX DICKENSON 223 lbs V FERENC ZSALEK

Fight # 4
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Lightweight Contest
DAVID OLIVER JOYCE 135.8 lbs V GABOR KOVACS

Fight # 5
THE VACANT IBF EUROPEAN SUPER-FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 130 lbs
JONO CARROLL 129 lbs V JOHNNY QUIGLEY 129.4 lbs

Fight # 6
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Lightweight Contest
TYRONE McKENNA 143 lbs V FERENC KATONA

Fight # 7
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Light-Heavyweight Contest
STEVEN WARD 180.5 lbs V ISTVAN ORSOS

Fight # 8
THE WBO EUROPEAN LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
10 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 135 lbs
CRAIG EVANS 134.6 lbs V STEPHEN ORMOND 134.8 lbs

Fight # 9
THE VACANT WBO EUROPEAN FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
10 X 3 Minute Rounds
PADDY BARNES 111.9 lbs V SILVIO OLTEANU 111.4 lbs

Fight # 10
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Lightweight Contest
SAM MAXWELL 146.9 lbs V VANGEL EMILOV

Moscow, Russia (June 16, 2017) Former WBA Heavyweight Champion ALEXANDER POVETKIN, (31-1-0, 23 KO’s), is making every effort to become a world champion leading up to his July 1 fight with ANDRIY RUDENKO, (31-2-0, 19 KO’s), in Moscow, Russia for the WBO International Heavyweight Title.

Enrolled in the combat sports’ toughest year round drug testing program, VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association), Povetkin was recently informed that tests performed on May 15 and May 16 were reported with negative results.

“I look forward to being tested by VADA and competing at a world class level, I want to prove to everybody that I am a clean fighter and that I can become a world champion again,” said Povetkin. “Andriy Rudenko is a tough fighter and I’ll have to be at my best to be victorious.”

“Vada is recognized as the highest standard for doping control in boxing and I want to prove through my testing with them that I’m a clean fighter and will work hard towards my dream of becoming the heavyweight champion of the world once again.”

“I have never tried to avoid any of the testing that I have done in the past, and I personally signed up for the VADA Clean Boxing program and I will continue my participation in the program working towards my goal.”

Said ANDREY RYABINSKIY, “We are glad that things are going well and I will do everything possible to give Alexander a chance to fight for the world title again, we have encountered certain setbacks, but we hope to persevere.”

Stated VADIM KORNILOV on behalf of WORLD OF BOXING, “Alexander is very excited about the upcoming challenge from Andriy Rudenko. He looks forward to moving through the rankings towards a world title opportunity against any political or non-political barriers. We are pleased working with VADA and are currently working on the best possible plan with the organizations that are happy to work with Povetkin and hopefully have him as one of their champions one day, but for now his focus is completely on July 1 and Andriy Rudenko.”

POVETKIN vs. RUDENKO is presented by World of Boxing from the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia and will be telecast in the United Kingdom by BoxNation. Other media and distribution channels will be announced in the near future.

TORONTO – Fight Network, the world’s premier 24/7 multi-platform channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, presents the stacked main card for UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: HOLM vs. CORREIA from Singapore this Saturday, June 17 at 8 a.m. ET, airing live on Fight Network across Canada.

In the main event, former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Holly Holm (10-3) looks to right her ship in her 135-pound return opposite Brazilian banger and former title challenger Bethe Correia (10-2-1). Former UFC heavyweight champion and No. 8 heavyweight contender Andrei Arlovski (25-14) is featured in the co-main event against fast-rising Polish star and No. 13-ranked Marcin Tybura (15-2). Rounding out the four-bout main card, top welterweights in pursuit of their fourth consecutive victory will collide when South Korean judoka and No. 7-ranked Dong Hyun Kim (22-3-1) battles American Top Team product Colby Covington (11-1), while former UFC lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos (25-9) makes his long awaited welterweight debut against No. 11 contender Tarec Saffiedine (16-6).

UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: HOLM vs. CORREIA will re-air in its entirety this Saturday at 6 p.m. ET and 9 p.m. ET.

But first, tonight, June 16 at 6 p.m. ET, Fight Network presents a live broadcast of TKO 39: Ultimatum across Canada, emanating from St. Roch, Quebec, Canada. The 16-bout card is headlined by a pivotal featherweight matchup pairing Ontario-based featherweight William Romero (10-5) against top Quebec prospect Charles Jourdain (4-0). The card will also showcase the entertaining Laramie brothers, as featherweight T.J. Laramie (5-2) takes on American Jimmy Spicuzza (7-4), while bantamweight Tony Laramie (3-0) meets Louis Jourdain (3-1). Meanwhile, middleweight Strahinja Gavrilovic (5-4) will make his return against Fritz Paul (10-4) and undefeated Brazilian welterweight Davis dos Santos (3-0) battles Frenchman Yacine Bandaoui (7-6).

Canadian viewers can take advantage of Fight Network’s free preview on cable carriers across the country to see all the live action this weekend.

For a full listing of Fight Network’s broadcast schedule, please visit www.fightnetwork.com, follow us on Twitter @fightnet, become a fan on Facebook and visit us on Instagram @fightnet.

Las Vegas, NV: The HBO Pay Per View® undercard of the Andre Ward vs. Sergey Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” on June 17 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas will include the ten-round light heavyweight battle between the hard-punching young Russian prospect Dmitry Bivol (10-0, 8 KOs) and seasoned veteran technical boxer Cedric “L.O.W.” Agnew (29-2, 15 KOs). Below is the scouting report for this exciting match-up:

Category
Dmitry Bivol
Cedric “L.O.W.” Agnew
Age
26
30
Record
10-0 (8 KOs)
29-2 (15 KOs)
Strength
Bivol has knockout power in both hands; he has a stiff jab and shows great patience and poise while breaking down his opponents.
Agnew is a technician in the ring; he’s a great body-puncher, has an effective jab, and brings plenty of experience to the table.
Weakness
With only ten pro bouts under his belt, Dmitry lacks championship-level experience coming into this fight.
Agnew lacks significant power in either hand; he has also been somewhat inactive with only one fight since mid-2015.
Experience
Although he has an extensive amateur background, Bivol will be entering the squared-circle at the professional level for just the 11th time in his professional career.
The Chicago native has triple the pro bouts under his belt than his opponent. He has also competed for a world title, a fight in which he came up short against Sergey Kovalev.
Power
Bivol’s power is one of his main strengths, he delivers a nasty body attack and has a disastrous right-hand that has ended the night for many.
Although he doesn’t possess much power, he does can physically break down his opponents. He is more affective at inflicting gradual punishment throughout the fight.
Speed
Bivol has a quick jab and moves around the ring well, his body attack is his best asset and is also where the speed comes into play.
Agnew has above-average speed; he picks his shots wisely and maintains a steady and consistent pace throughout the fight.
Endurance
Bivol proved in just his seventh pro bout that he can handle a full 12 rounds. He comfortably won a unanimous decision over previously undefeated Felix Valera.
Agnew is a ten-year veteran of the sport and has proven multiple times that he has no problem at all going the distance.
Accuracy
He is an accurate puncher that begins with his pin-point jab that allows him to follow-up accordingly.
His accuracy is one of his strongest tools in his arsenal; he does not waste shots and has an effective jab that allows him to pick his shots carefully.
Defense
Bivol’s defense has been stagnant thus far, simply due to how dominant his offense has been in his first ten bouts.
Agnew’s defense may just be his most prominent strength. He has proven to be tough to lay hands on throughout the years.
Chin
He has steamrolled through his opponents thus far and has not been in any real danger, so his chin is still in question.
Agnew has a durable chin and has only been stopped once in his career against knockout artist Sergey Kovalev. To his credit, he was able to get off the canvas twice in the fight before finally being stopped on the third knockdown.
Style
This young prospect is an aggressive offensive fighter who wastes little time once the first bell rings. He sits behind an extremely sharp jab and follows up with rigorous bodywork along the way.
This crafty veteran is an affective technical boxer; he likes to utilize his jab and set up his shots. In contrast to his opponent, he has no problem taking his time in dissecting his opponent and grinding out a dominant decision win.
Intangibles
Bivol has been on an obvious mission since the start of his career, which is to steamroll his opposition on his way to a world title shot. He has done exactly that thus far and has taken no time off or tune-ups in the process. He has successfully tested himself against big-punchers in Robert Berridge and Samuel Clarkson and now will test his skills against an in-ring technician in Agnew. Agnew has only been stopped once in his career by The Krusher, if Bivol can add his name to that mix then it can be a major game-changer for him moving forward.
Agnew is a crafty veteran of ten years who has had difficulty finding opposition throughout his career. He is a difficult fight for anybody in the light heavyweight division due to his highly technical style. He has called out all-comers but to no prevail. Rather than sit on the sidelines and wait for his next big shot, he will instead try to derail the hype behind this young prospect. Agnew understands a win over the highly regarded Bivol will put him back on the map and will leave those in the division no choice but to step up and face the former title challenger.
Crowd Support
He has only fought in the US on three separate occasions, but he has an entertaining fight style that is sure to have fans asking for more.
Agnew has fought his entire pro career in the United States, so it is expected that he will have some strong supports coming into this fight.
The Match-up
1. Bivol is a young up-and-coming light heavyweight that a lot of people are high on, will he be able to handle the pressure under the big lights?
2. Will Agnew be able to handle the power of Bivol?
3. Is the southpaw stance of Agnew going to give Bivol any problems?
4. Will Agnew be able to handle Bivol’s come forward/pressure style?

According Main Events’ matchmaker and 2015 NABF Matchmaker of the Year Jolene Mizzone, “This is your typical young up-and-coming fighter trying to prove that he belongs in the mix against a veteran fighter who wants to prove he still belongs in the mix. I believe this is Bivol’s toughest test to date. Agnew is a southpaw, he has already fought under the bright lights and is hungry to get back into another championship-level fight in a very hot division.”

Ward vs. Kovalev 2: “The Rematch,” a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA Light Heavyweight World Championships, is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Main Events, Andre Ward Promotions, Krusher Promotions and Corona Extra, sponsored by Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Jetlux, Life10 Electrolyte, Zappos, D’USSÉ Cognac, ProSupps and Powered by Monster. The championship event takes place Saturday, June 17 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets for Ward-Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” are available on axs.com and at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Box Office.

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HARBIN, China (June 16, 2017) – MMA heavyweight star Sergei Kharitonov continued his dominance in M-1 Global competition, knocking out Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou midway through the opening round of last night’s M-1 Challenge 80 main event, held in Harbin, China.

Cameroon-native Sokoudjou (18-8-0, M-1: 0-1-0), fighting out of the United States, was nailed on the chin by a straight right thrown by Kharitonov (25-6-0, M-1: 4-0-0), who immediately jumped on top of his fallen foe, firing two more powerful hammer-punches to the head, until the referee halted the action.

But it really was a classic one-punch KO by Kharitonov, who remains undefeated in M-1 Global competition at 4-0-0.

Checkout this one-punch KO

or go here to view:
https://m1global.tv/news/m1_challenge_80_kharitonov_vs_sokoudjou_event_results/

M-1 Challenge featherweight champion Ivan “Buki” Buchinger (32-5-0, M-1: 7-1-0), of Slovakia, successfully defended his title, submitting Russian challenger Timur Nagibin (9-3-0, M-1: 5-2-0) in round three via a rear naked choke.

German featherweight Sascha Sharman (13-3-0, M-1: 1-1-0) did the same to his opponent, Musu “Iron King” Nuertiebieke (7-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), of China, except Sharman finished the show at the 1:03 mark of the opening round.

Australian welterweight Corey “Major” Nelson (18-6-2, M-1: 0-0-1) and Alexander “Iron Capture” Butenko (43-12-1, M-1: 9-2-1) fought to a three-round majority-draw, while Russian featherweight Mikhail Korobov (11-3-1, M-1: 1-2-1) also used a rear naked choke to submit Asirkebai Jinensibieke (12-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0) in the first round.

On the preliminary card, Russian middleweight Artem Kazbanov (8-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Chinese welterweight Kuerbanjiang Tuluosibake (2-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0) and Russian lightweight Adam Tsurov (7-5-0, M-1: 6-2-0) all won three-round unanimous decisions, respectively, against Nosherwan “Savage” Khanzada (3-4-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Ukrainian Makim “Mad Max: Melnik (3-4-0, M-1: 1-2-0) and previously undefeated Fu Kangkang (4-1-1, M-1: 0-1-0), of China.

Brazilian light heavyweight Carlos “Cachorrao” Edueardo (16-4-0, M-1: 2-0-0) stopped previously undefeated German, Rene Hoppe (7-1-0, M-1: 2-1-0), in the first round on the advice of the doctor. Georgian bantamweight Ivbragim Navruzov (4-0-1, M-1: 1-0-1) took a three-round split decision from Huyixibai Huyixibai (14-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0), of China.

Once again, M-1 Global promoted a true international event as the 20 competing athletes represented 10 different countries: Russia, United States, Slovakia, Germany, Brazil, Australia, Ukraine, Pakistan, Georgia and China.

Complete results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS
(all winners listed first)

MAIN CARD

MAIN EVENT – HEAVYWEIGHTS
Sergei Kharitonov (25-6-0, M-1: 4-0-0), Russia
KO1 (Punches – 2:39)
Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou (18-8-0, M-1: 0-1-0), USA

M-1 CHALLENGE FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSIP
Ivan Buchinger (32-5-0, M-1: 7-1-0), Slovakia
WSUB3 (Rear Naked Choke – 3:24)
Timur Nagibin (9-3-0, M-1: 5-2-0), Russia
(Buchinger retains M-1 Challenge featherweight title)

FEATHERWEIGHTS
Sascha Sharma (13-2-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Germany
WSUB1 (Rear Naked Choke – 1:03)
Muso Nuertiebieke (7-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), China

WELTERWEIGHTS
Alexander Butenko (43-12-1, M-1: 9-2-1), Ukraine
D3
Corey Nelson (18-6-2, M-1: 0-0-1), Australia

FEATHERWEIGHTS
Mikhail Korobov (11-2-1, M-1: 1-2-1), Russia
WSUB1 (Rear Naked Choke – 1:18)
Asirkebai Jinensibieke (12-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0), China

PRELIMINARY CARD

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS
Carlos Eduardo (16-4-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Brazil
WTKO1 (Doctor Stoppage – 1:06)
Rene Hoppe (7-0-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Germany

MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Arten Kazbanov (8-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Russia
WDEC3
Nosherwan Khanzada (3-4-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Pakistan

BANTAMWEIGHTS
Ibragim Navruzov (4-0-1, M-1: 1-0-1), Georgia
WDEC3
Huyixibai Huyixibai (14-5-0, M-1: 0-1-0), China

WELTERWEIGHTS
Kuerbanjiang Tuluosibake (2-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0, China
WDEC3
Makim Melnik (3-4-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Ukraine

LIGHTWEIGHTS
Adam Tsurov (7-5-0, M-1: 6-2-0), Russia
WDEC3
Fu Kangkang (4-1-0, M-1: 0-1-0), China

INFORMATION:

www.M1Global.tv
www.mixfight.ru
www.wmmaa.org

Twitter & Instagram:

@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/M-1-GlobalNews
ABOUT M-1 GLOBAL: Founded in 1997, M-1 Global has established itself in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as the premier entity for discovering and developing the world’s next-generation of superstar fighters. With its office in St Petersburg, Russia, the M-1 brand has staged more than 200 events worldwide, including M-1 Selection, M-1 Challenge, M-1 Global and M-1 Global HWGP events, in addition to co-promoting Strikeforce events and M-1 Global on the U.S. network, Showtime. Captivating live, television and broadband audiences with its superior production values and match-ups, M-1 Global events have featured some of the sport’s top names, including legendary heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko, Andrei Arlovski, Gegard Mousasi, Alistair Overeem, Keith Jardine, Ben Rothwell, Melvin Manhoef, Sergei Kharitonov, Aleksander Emelianenko, Roman Zentsov, Yushin Okami, Mike Pyle, Denis Kang, Martin Kampmann, Amar Suloev, Chalid Arrab and Stephan Struve. 2017 has been another sensational year of world-class competition, featuring a full calendar of Challenge events, fueled by a talent-rich contention system ranking M-1 Global Champions among the greatest fighters in the sport.

ABOUT M-1GLOBAL.TV: Enjoy MMA action now in high definition brought to you by M-1Global.tv, offering only the best fights from M-1 Global and other MMA organizations. M-1Global.tv is a great platform developed specifically to bring together the most exhaustive fight video database. It also provides an easy and intuitive interface, helping everyone to start using the platform in no time while avoiding any spoilers. Besides watching the past fights on demand at any time convenient to the customer, viewers are able to enjoy the action LIVE, all available to M-1Global.tv users through a low-priced month to month digital subscription. Your world of action. Anytime!

WICHITA, Kansas (June 16, 2017) – All fighters made weight today at Mort’s Cigar Bar in Wichita for tomorrow night’s “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire,” airing on CBS Sports Network live from Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

“KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” is a presentation of KO Night Boxing LLC. TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout Night Boxing.

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – FLYWEIGHTS (6)
Nico Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO), Wichita, KS 112 lbs.
Jose Rodriguez (2-0, 2 KOs), Markesan, 112 ½ WI lbs.

CO-FEATURE – JUNIOR MIDDLEWEIGHTS (6)
Noel Esqueda (7-3-2, 5 KOs), Wichita, KS 152 lbs.
Limberth Ponce (12-3, 9 KOs), Quad Cities, IL 155 lbs.

FEATHERWEIGHTS (4)
Eric Vargas (2-0, 1 KO), Garden City, KS 125 lbs.
Humberto Tellez (pro debut), Winfield, KS 125 lbs.

SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHTS (4)
Eddie Chavez (pro debut), Wichita, KS 164 lbs.
Luis Fernando Juanez Jasso (pro debut), Garden City, KS 162 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
Brian Clements (pro debut), Topeka, KS 144 ½ lbs.
Bryant Montalvo (1-9, 1 KO), Garden City, KS 148 Lbs.

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)
Juan Hollingsworth (1-0, 1 KO), Winfield, KS 173 lbs.
Matt Dixon (pro debut), Tulsa, OK. 174 ½ lbs.

WHAT: “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire”

WHEN: Saturday, June 17, 2017

WHERE: Hartman Arena

PROMOTER: KO Night Boxing LLC

TELEVISION: Live on CBS Sports Network

BROADCASTERS: Sean Wheelock & Joey Varner

DOORS OPEN: 6:00 p.m. CT

FIRST BOUT: 7:00 p.m. CT

FIRST TV BOUT: 9:00 p.m. CT

TICKETS: Tickets are on sale at the Hartman Arena box office and
http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/060052A193761C74. Prices are $175.00
(VIP ringside package ticket which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt and
a ticket to the official after-party with a meet-and-greet opportunity), $150.00
(floor seat which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt), $75.00, $35.00 and
$20.00

This is an all-ages show.

OTHER: TITLE Boxing is the official apparel and gloves partner for Knockout

INFORMATION:

Twitter: @KONightBoxing

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media

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. In this highly competitive digital age, NSSE specializes in the development and production of corporate branding designed with your target audience and accelerated consumer growth in mind. Visit us on Twitter @Neonstarmedia or Facebook www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media. KO Night Boxing, LLC, REV Sports Entertainment Inc. (MAVTV Canada) and Neon Star Media LLC are subsidiary companies 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.

LAS VEGAS, NV (June 15, 2017) – On Thursday, June 15, Unified Light Heavyweight World Champion Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (31-0, 15 KOs) and former WBO, WBA and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-1-1, 26 KOs), along with their teams, participated in the Fight Week Powered by Monster Final Press Conference for their highly-anticipated showdown. Ward-Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” will take place Saturday, June 17 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The championship event, presented by Corona Extra, will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Below is what the participants on the dais had to say:

Andre “S.O.G.” Ward – Unified Light Heavyweight World Champion

“Thank you everybody, before I start I just want to send my prayers out to Daniel Franco and his family. It broke my heart when I heard, and on top of that, he is a stablemate of mine. He has fought on several of my undercards. It’s the worst situation that a fighter can find themselves in so I just want to let his family know that I’m praying for him. I would love to speak to him at some point in time and I’m dedicating this victory to him and his family because he is a brother in this sport. It’s a tough situation but we are praying and I know he’s going to pull through.

“I’m excited to be here. I’m the same guy that I was last time, the guy that I was five fights before, two years before. We don’t have a lot of highs and lows in this camp. You know we’ve been grinding from the beginning, we’ve got a blue collar mentality, we put our head down, we don’t take no mess. We fight to stay humble because we know where our strength comes from and if that strength is removed, we’ve got problems. It’s no different in this fight. I’m no higher than I was last time. Emotionally, I’m no lower. I didn’t train any harder. There was no major overhaul but we’re going to make adjustments. We know his side is going to make adjustments. At the end of the day, I’m not going to be distracted by the talk. I’m not going to be distracted by the ploys. I had a couple of missions in mind when I came to Las Vegas–to glorify God with my performance and the way I act outside the ring, to defend my belts that I won back in November, and to get home and kiss my wife and kids.

“I’m locked in on what I’ve got to. I hope everyone tunes in to HBO Pay-Per-View. And those who are reading this, if you are here, come to the fight. It’s going to be a tremendous fight. I’m expecting his best. You’re going to see a different Andre Ward. I’m just going to leave it at that. You’re going to see another guy in there Saturday night; and that is my favorite time – show and tell time. All the talking is good for the fans, it’s good to build it up, it’s all good but anybody that knows me, knows that I’m about the action. About getting it done. I’m thankful to be in this position. I’ve been in this position for over a decade and I’m blessed to be at the highest level for as long as I have.

“I’m excited to see some of these young fighters on the undercard. A lot of guys who I know; that I’ve watched develop. This is [their] time to shine. This is [their] moment. And my boy, Rigondeaux, I’m always happy to be on a card with him. That’s a master. Nothing but respect.”

Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev – Former Unified Light Heavyweight World Champion

“First of all, I want to say thank you for Mandalay Bay and Richard Sturm. Also, Nevada commission, HBO Pay Per View and to my team for everything that I have right now. What do you want to hear from me? I already said enough and I will prove it June 17 in the ring. You get prepared. (Points at Ward) Thank you very much.”

Michael R. Yormark – Roc Nation President & Chief of Branding and Strategy

“Back in November the two best pound-for-pound fighters in the world tested each other like they had never been tested before in their careers. On that night, Andre Ward faced a defining moment and countered with an epic comeback victory over Sergey Kovalev to become the new Unified Light Heavyweight World Champion. Over the last three months, everything that needs to be said about this fight has been said. We don’t need to build hype any longer. The table has been set for what we believe will be the fight of the year not the money grabbing spectacle that will take place later this summer. We have two fighters with different styles, who approach the sport differently and clearly handle themselves differently outside of the ring. There’s no hiding the truth that there is dislike throughout the camps. Or that Sergey has made one outlandish comment after the next. My daughter who attended the grand arrivals earlier this week asked me “Daddy, why is he pointing at you?” I reminded her that bullies always tend to pick on those a little bit smaller than them. But I told her that’s okay because I am confident that Andre will take care of business on Saturday night.

“From Team Ward’s perspective once the fight is over on Saturday night there will be no doubt. There will be no excuses. There will be no debated ending. Saturday, June 17 will be an opportunity for Andre Ward to solidify his status as the best pound for pound fighter in the world.

“On Saturday, June 17, there will only be one – one true champion, one pound for pound king, one real face of this sport. The epic rematch between Andre Ward and Sergey Kovalev will have its intended ending. With Andre Ward leaving Las Vegas and taking his belts back to the Bay Area, to join the Golden State Warriors’ second NBA Championship in the last three years.”

Kathy Duva – CEO of Main Events

“I want to talk about the fight. I would like to thank the media. I always do. Whether I say it up here or I tell you in person, without you we would not have a sport. We certainly wouldn’t have a big event this weekend. I do appreciate the fact that you spend your time, most, if not all of you, with little or no reward at all when you cover our events. But it seems strange to me that the question I have heard most often this week since I have arrived from the media is: ‘Why isn’t this a bigger event?’ This is a big event. This is the best fighting the best. Literally, number one and number two in the world fighting a rematch of a controversial fight, the most controversial fight of last year, both in their primes, just seven months away from their first encounter. They are two of the finest athletes in the world, two grandmasters in the ring testing their skills and their intellects in a fight that the media and the fans always say they want to see. This is what we have brought you. We have brought you what you want. Today you can decide when you carry our message out to the world whether you want to tell your readers, your listeners and your viewers that this is an amazing event, well worth their time and their money or if you want to spend more time talking about a lot of the manufactured drama outside of this ring. Or about that circus that is going to take place here in August. All of the elements are here: HBO, Mandalay Bay, our great cable and satellite partners, two of the great, elite fighters in our sport, in their prime, a great event where absolutely anything can happen and now it is up to you. I implore all of you, please go out and tell our story. Tell our story to our fans who, I promise you, will be kicking themselves on Sunday morning if they missed this. It is a great event.”

“Somebody reminded me last night, ‘When was the last time we saw Sergey Kovalev as the challenger?’ The answer to that question is when he was fighting in Wales against Nathan Cleverly. That Sergey was ‘The Krusher.’ That is the guy who got that nickname. That is the guy who I see is back here again today. I am very happy about that. I have a feeling he has had it with the talking. We have all had it with the talking, to be honest. But he is here. He is ready and he is going to get his belts back. I give to you the former light heavyweight world champ of the world and the future light heavyweight champ of the world Sergey Kovalev.”

“I have to also point out that, now that the gossip girls are done with talking about all of their outside the ring stuff, that stuff isn’t necessary here. I think it is kind of sad that Ward’s team doesn’t have enough faith in him that they have to go to these lengths to try to twist Sergey’s head. Sergey will be there, I promise, on Saturday and he will be angry and he will be spectacular. We are going to have fireworks. Please don’t miss it.”

Virgil Hunter – Trainer of Andre Ward

“One thing I can concur, as Kathy said, was why wasn’t there as much interest? If you go to the websites, you see them talking about fights three to four months from now and we understand. But the best fighters this year, and like [Kathy] said the No. 1 and No. 2 fighters in the world are fighting two days from now. Why is it like it is? I don’t know. I’m sure it may have something to do with Andre Ward and how he stands up for himself as a man, but we’ll leave that alone.

“On a sad note, I’m sad that John David Jackson took it to where it shouldn’t have gone. My grandmother taught me something a long time ago–she told me the truth has feet and a lie has wings. That’s why a lie can fly all over town and get there first. The truth moves slowly, but when it gets there, it will stand on its own. It’s very disappointing to know what I know and then it turns out to be the way it is. We’re going to leave that alone because I’m not here to mess with his livelihood. I said that from the very beginning, if you can’t help, don’t hinder.

“I thank everybody for coming. Looking forward to another very highly-competitive fight, a fight that means a lot to both men. When it means a lot to both men, you can’t help but have a fight. We took everything that Sergey said personally. If he wants to injure Andre, end his career, hurt him, we took that at his word and we just put our heads to the grind. I’m glad he’s [Kovalev] mad too, so hopefully, we can put a happy smile on everybody’s face after June 17.

“Those who gave him [Kovalev] this special pass, he just showed you what he thinks of you… to not give you the opportunity to snap a faceoff photo. It’s like a little kid playing ball on the streets, who has all of the bats and the bases, but when he strikes out he wants to take all of his stuff home. It’s really an insult that he has been built up, allowed to have all of these things to take place in his career from HBO and everybody else, but he walks out on what has always been traditional in boxing.”

James Prince – Manager of Andre Ward

“This has been a long journey for us. As you can see, we run people off. I don’t know what belts they’re talking about getting–I guess someone’s going to buy them a Gucci belt or something because he won’t be receiving these belts. Krusher has ran off, his manager has ran off, everyone has ran off. Left the scene. I don’t know if this is how they behave in Russia but we don’t act that way in the United States of America. That’s not American-like. But we understand they’re not going to show up for the post-press conference as well because it’s going to be the same story. We’re going to defeat them.

“Kathy, I haven’t heard your voice sound so nervous, but I understand you have it all on the line right now. That’s OK. You got it coming. But I understand also that you all want to be victims on this promotion. Kovalev and Brother Jackson accused us of lying and we don’t do that. We don’t practice that. It’s just the facts.

“[John David Jackson] couldn’t have said it more clearly than in the interview with Radio Rahim. What a beautiful interview, Brother Rahim. I mean, it came out of his mouth, ‘I made [them] an offer and if they would’ve accepted my offer, I may not be here.’ I’m not putting words in his mouth, that’s what the man said. I’ll let that rest.

“I don’t have a whole lot to say at this point – other than, there will be some beautiful undercard fighters on this show. [Saturday] is our night, this is a Roc Nation night, an Andre Ward night. We shall be victorious and shine. One more thing and deliver this message to Krusher… He ain’t no Krusher. We should rename him to Usher, get rid of the KR.”

Josh Dubin –Attorney and Co-Manager of Andre Ward

“I was having a conversation with my brother James Prince and what role we play in the lives of the fighters that we represent. We had a conversation about breaking the cycle. In this room are some old friends of mine, guys that I was blessed to be part of their lives and careers–Paulie Malignaggi, Bryant Jennings, Junior Younan “Sugarboy” and, of course, my brother Andre Ward. The guys we represent are from hard-scrabble backgrounds, they aren’t privileged guys. They literally have to fight to get what they get. To be able to just be along on the journey to help them break the cycle, whether it be of poverty, violence, the conditions they grow up in, is a source of tremendous pride for me, individually, and really why I do it.

“Even going back to Lennox Lewis, they let us in, and we have a very important job to play. For all the managers out there, know that behind-the-scenes we are there through the struggles, through the tears, through the injuries, through the paralyzing politics of the sport and it’s a grind sometimes. These guys deserve all the credit in the world for getting in the ring and literally risking their lives. I think that gets lost in the shuffle of trash talk and everything else. But this beautiful sport has helped so many people break the cycle. Mike Tyson said it perfectly once, ‘go from statistics to specialists.’

John David Jackson – Trainer of Sergey Kovalev

“It’s a pleasure to be here. It’s nice to see all the press that came out for this fight. This is a very good fight. The first time around, it was a good fight and had a very controversial ending. The second fight should be very interesting between these two combatants – these are two of the best fighters in the world today. It’s a pleasure to be a part of this event. I look forward to it.

“The past few weeks — past maybe month or so — there have been a lot of things that have been said. I call that gamesmanship and give Team Ward credit for that. They had to try to get inside people’s heads to maybe offset the training camp and the fighter’s ability to work through that and perform the best he can. I give [Team Ward] credit because there’s been a lot of lies and a lot of things have been said. What that has done for us is it’s allowed Team Kovalev to be closer. We’ve grown closer. He’s listening more and doing what he’s supposed to do for this fight. It has given us a great adhesiveness. The team is even stronger, so I want to thank them for the things that were said. There will be a lot of untruths that will be told, a little later on, at this press conference. But I have proof that all that are lies – trust me; it’s in my phone. There have been a lot of lies that have been told.

“Having said that, I think this will be a very good fight that boxing needs. Two of the best at their craft. One will come out the winner and that’s how it’s supposed to be. It’s an intriguing fight for the fans and it was made and deserves to be seen. I want everyone to come out and enjoy it and I hope it’s a tremendous fight. Hopefully, it’s a fight of the year because both of these guys are tremendous fighters. This is what boxing needs: two of the best going against one another. We are looking forward to it. Camp was great and now it is just time to go to work Saturday. I hope to see everybody there and hope we have a great fight.”

Egis Klimas – Manager of Sergey Kovalev

“I happy to be here in Vegas, not because of the nice hotels and the hot weather. I am just happy to get this thing over. It is very close. We have just two more days to go. Everything is going to be put in the place back where it belongs. We’ve been talking a lot and everybody is getting tired, especially looking at what is being done with the managers coming to the stage and saying what their fighter is going to do in the ring, who is going to get a knockout, how we are going to take care of business but at the end of the day we are sitting downstairs. We are not in the ring. The fighters are the ones who are fighting. They have to prove to each other.

“I wanted to thank everybody. I wanted to thank the press. I wanted to thank host hotel, Mandalay Bay, HBO Pay Per View, Nevada commission for having us here. Hopefully, it is going to be very good fight and we will see Saturday night. Thank you very much.”

Tony Walker – Vice President, HBO Pay-Per-View

“Let’s talk some boxing. On behalf of our Executive Vice President Peter Nelson and the rest of the HBO staff, we really appreciate the efforts of you supporting boxing and supporting this great event on Saturday. I would like to thank the press for the attention you’ve given this show and especially thank your editors for recognizing the significance of a top-flight, boxing event. Must thank the promoters; it’s never easy to put together a top-flight boxing match, an event with a main event like we have and an entertaining undercard for the fans. Thanks to Michael, Kathy and their staffs for doing such a great job.

“We are extremely proud to present this as a pay-per-view show because this is boxing at its highest level. These are two veteran fighters at the top of their game who have had great international acclaim and success. When you get around these fighters, you see the confidence they exude. They have a lot to fight for on Saturday night. They have put their careers on the line. I’ve also heard there’s a bit of a rivalry between these two on a personal level. It all adds up to a great night of sports television, something we think is worth boxing fans putting their money and time towards. If you find anyone who doesn’t think this is a great show, I would direct them to watch a replay of the first fight or watch the 24/7 documentary we did about this show. I must say that the first two minutes of 24/7 is gripping television.

“Lastly, I want to thank our distributors–the cable, satellite, teleco companies–that have done a good job of telling people about this event on Saturday. We promise you, in conjunction with them, a great broadcast, very clear picture and an entertaining night of TV.”

Richard Sturm – President of Entertainment & Sports for MGM Resorts International

“Welcome to the media, fighters and our colleagues at Roc Nation, Main Events, the HBO team and fight fans worldwide. We are excited to have you join us at Mandalay Bay for today’s press conference and are thrilled to kick off the summer boxing campaign with this international championship rematch. As many of you have witnessed firsthand, over the years, Mandalay Bay Events Center has been the home to many exciting boxing events and this weekend will be no different.

“These two great champions–Andre Ward and Sergey Kovalev–fought a little more than six months ago at the T-Mobile Arena. As we all know, that battle was a close, thrilling fight. This second one will prove to be another sensational fight. We look forward to seeing you this Saturday night for a great event.”

Bob Bennett – Executive Director, Nevada State Athletic Commission

“I’m obviously a regulator and I’m in the middle here. That’s exactly where I’m supposed to be. I would like you to know that, on behalf the Nevada State Athletic Commission, we consider it an honor to regulate this championship fight once again. And we do so with passion, commitment and accountability. That’s what we’re all about.

“We’d like to thank Michael Yormark from Roc Nation and Kathy Duva from Main Events for hosting this championship fight in the fight capital of the world. Of course, we’d like to recognize Richard Sturm from MGM and the Mandalay Bay for hosting another world-class event. Last, but not least, I always try to make it a point to recognize the fighters.

“These two fighters are truly warriors who dare to succeed under some of the stressful conditions that they’re under. They dare to put their reputations on the line under some of those most stressful conditions and that was very evident in the first fight. As Richard said, it was a very competitive fight and we look forward to regulating this second fight. With that said, thank you very much and God bless.”

Ward vs. Kovalev 2: “The Rematch,” a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA Light Heavyweight World Championships, is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Main Events, Andre Ward Promotions, Krusher Promotions and Corona Extra, sponsored by Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Jetlux, Life10 Electrolyte, Zappos, D’USSÉ Cognac, ProSupps and Powered by Monster. The championship event takes place Saturday, June 17 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets for Ward-Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” are available on axs.com and at the Mandalay Bay Events Center Box Office.

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Claressa Shields 162.4 vs Sydney LeBlanc 164
Alexey Zubov 197.4 vs Demetrius Banks 195.4
Jarico O’Quinn 117 vs David Martino TBD
Bakhtiyar Eyubov 147.8 vs Cesar Soriano 150
Serdar Hudayberdiyev 159.8 vs Antonio Urista 154.6
Dimash Niyazov 137.8 vs Ramon Guevara 136.6
Jacob Bonas 147.4 vs Anthony Brooks 147.2
Darren Gibbs 173 vs Scott McCurdy 176

Promoter: Salita Promotions
Matchmaker: Dennis Turner
Venue: Masonic Temple, Detroit
Doors/First Bout: 7 PM/ 8 PM
Tickets: ticketmaster.com

(Atlantic City, NJ – June 15, 2017) – Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF) Inaugural Induction weekend held on May 26, 27 and 28th was a smorgasbord of boxing royalty, celebrity guests and legions of boxing fans. ACBHOF mission is to create visibility and awareness through annual inductions ceremonies; boxing champions, as well as the boxing community at-large will have their names enshrined into immortality by being inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

“Watching my vision come together with the assistance of Rodrick Green, the VP of Business Strategy, and Angela Crockett our Communications Director, along with the rest of my team and countless other supporters and fans across the country, who’ve embraced this endeavor has been overwhelmingly impressive.” – Ray McCline, Founder & President

The trio of events, which were sponsored by the Claridge – a Radisson Hotel, kicked-off May 26th with a pre-reception and welcome address in the VÜE Rooftop Bar. The 150 guests included: Red Carpet Host Whitney Ullman, Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian, Councilman Frank Gilliam, Dr. Nina Radcliff, Flo Anthony, Aaron Snowell, Lillo Brancato, Alan Goldberg, Ray Mercer, Mark Breland, Iran Barkley, Iceman John Scully, Tracy Patterson, Milton Luban, Chuck Zito, Grandy Twins, sponsors and stakeholders alike.

“The Claridge – a Radisson Hotel was proud to have hosted Atlantic City’s first Boxing Hall of Fame induction class. It’s events like this that make hospitality and history come to life in this city. From the Fight Fan Expo to the Gala it was a pleasure to see new faces and passion throughout a weekend of exceptional events. We look forward to hosting the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame events for years to come at The Claridge – a Radisson Hotel.”- Cem Erenler, V.P. of Hotel Operations & Business Development

On May 27, the festivities continued into the Fight Fan Experience, a festive boxing themed environment that included a Boxing Fantasy Camp, Pop-Up Barber Shop, Jack Johnson Exhibit Icons of Boxing, The Legacy Exists Joe Frazier Scholarship Fund, James O’Neal Sculptures, The Press of Atlantic City Exhibit, Food vendors and music by DJ Young Hitta.

The evening of May 27th concluded with an Honoree Gala in the Art Gallery celebrating “Women in Boxing.” Host for the evening, Nino Del Buono. Honorees included: Cathy Burke, Marian Muhammad, Joan Pierce, Renee Aiken and Althea “Vern” Saunders.

The culminating Induction celebration concluded Sunday, May 28th with a little over 500 guests. The master of ceremonies for the ceremony, President of NJ Boxing Hall of Fame, Henry Hascup. The star-studded Charter Class members included: Don King, Michael Spinks, Larry Hazzard, Steve Smoger, Mike Rossman, Dwight Muhammad Qawi, Frank Gelb, Don Elbaum, J Russell Peltz, Dave Bontempo, Ken Condon, Robert Lee, Sr., Larry Holmes and Mike Tyson.

“I would like to sincerely congratulate Mr. Ray McCline, Roy Foreman, Rodrick Green, Angela Crockett and all of the wonderful people responsible for the great Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame weekend which took place on May 26th, 27th, and 28th. The event was an astounding success and it allowed many of us, who attended, the opportunity to relive some of the exciting moments of our past boxing history. The establishment of the ACBHOF will also ensure that the great legacy of Atlantic City Boxing, will be remembered and celebrated for many years to come!! Once again congratulations and I look forward with great anticipation to next year’s celebration. God Bless!!” – Commissioner Larry Hazzard, NJ State Athletic Control Board

Posthumous Inductees: Arturo Gatti (received by Sofia Bella Gatti); Leavander Johnson (received by his Son); Mathew Saad Muhammad (received by Mustafa Ameen); Lou Duva (received by Dino Duva); Jack Obermayer (received by his daughter Ellen Kaplan); Bert Sugar; Dennis Gomes (received by his daughter Danielle Gomes and Mrs. Gomes); Mike Hall, Sr. (received by his son Mike Hall, Jr.) and Dr, Frank Doggett (received by his daughter Yvonne “Missy” Doggett).

“It was such an incredible honor to be part of such a historic event. We had a blast at the HARD Kickoff party with Michael Spinks and Ray Mercer. It was so amazing to see all the young kids enjoying the Boxing experience. They are the new generation of Atlantic City Boxing. The Highlight of the weekend for us was the Gala, it was truly a memorable evening. Congratulations to Ray McCline and the inductees on a successful Inaugural Induction. The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame will be a staple destination for Boxing Fans in the years to come.” – Gregory V. Posella, President & Co-founder HARD Beverage

Former Miss America, Suzette Charles, Chicken Bone Beach Jazz Band and saxophonist Parris provided entertainment for the evening. Entertainment was coordinated by Kevin Crump.

Title Sponsors: Hard Lifestyle Beverages, Designer Wraps and Hammer Fiber Optics. The Atlantic City Police Athletic League is ACBHOF’s charitable arm. Keebler Media was the official ACBHOF videographer.

Other sponsors and supporters: City of Atlantic City; Triax 57; 2300 Arena; FantaSea Resorts; Adams Boxing; Rumble TV Network; Tina Davido Promotions; Abrams Boxing, Adams Boxing, Plush Vodka, Punzoné Organic Vodka, House of Genesis and WBC.

While the menus consisted of scrumptious passed hors d’oeuvres and signature drinks, the Honoree cake designed by Cake King of Queens and the unveiling of Commemorative Paintings by Nicolosi were stunning show stoppers.

Another extraordinary highlight from the weekend was when Arturo Gatti’s 11-year old daughter Sofia Bella Gatti accepted her father’s award alongside his longtime friends Chuck Zito and Mike Sciarra.

Click here to see full 2-hour induction ceremony

Michael Spinks interview

Dwight Muhammad Qawi

Kickoff Reception

Don Elbaum

Honoree Gala

Don King

Video of Pictures

Acbhof.com

Social Media Platforms: @acbhof