LOS ANGELES (June 15, 2017) – A special short film, “I Am Boxing” narrated by Ice Cube and legendary promoter Don Chargin, will debut in New York and Los Angeles next week as part of a two-city press tour in support of the September 16 superfight between Lineal Middleweight World Champion Canelo Alvarez (49-1-1, 34 KOs) and IBF/WBA/WBC Middleweight World Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin (37-0, 33 KOs). Canelo vs. Golovkin, the 12-round showdown for supremacy and the middleweight championship of the world is hosted by T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View.®

The film focuses on three golden ages of boxing, beginning with the six grueling showdowns between Sugar Ray Robinson and Jake “The Bronx Bull” LaMotta, and moves into the legendary series of nine fights between the “Four Kings” of Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvelous Marvin Hagler, Thomas “Hitman” Hears and Roberto “Manos De Piedra” Duran, concluding with a preview of the best fight in boxing between middleweight kingpins Canelo and GGG.

The film, complete with star-studded, red carpets, will highlight a two-city press tour stopping in New York City on June 20 and Los Angeles on June 22.

**PLEASE NOTE: Individual media alerts with more details for each city are forthcoming.

Tuesday, June 20 – New York, New York
Location: The Theater at Madison Square Garden
4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001
Red carpet located at South VIP Entrance on 31st St. between 7th and 8th
Press Arrival Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
Red Carpet Opens: 5:00 p.m. ET
Fan Arrival Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Event Begins: 8:00 p.m. ET

Thursday, June 22 – Los Angeles, California
Location: AVALON Hollywood
1735 Vine St., Los Angeles, CA
Media and Fan Arrival Time: 4:30 p.m. PT
Red Carpet Opens: 5:00 p.m. PT
Event Begins: 8:00 p.m. PT

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 and O’Reilly Auto Parts. The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 16 at T-Mobile Arena and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View®

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and 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; follow 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.

Lou DiBella
Thanks, everybody for joining us for the main event conference call for the PBC on FOX and FOX Deportes show on July 15th live at 8:00 pm Eastern Time, 5:00 pm Pacific Time on FOX and live at NYCB Live home of the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum oin Uniondale, New York.

This’ll be the first boxing event on Long Island – first major boxing event at the Nassau Coliseum – in 31 years. The last event was on March 10th, 1986. It was headlined by Mike Tyson. For anyone that hasn’t been to NYCB Nassau Veteran Memorial Coliseum, it’s a gorgeous venue.

Opened with a Billy Joel concert a couple of months ago one of the really, really, really beautiful new venues in the world and if you had been at the Nassau Coliseum before, this is a tremendous upgrade over the old building and I want to introduce the CEO of Brooklyn Sports and Entertainment Brett Yormark, a man who’s responsible for rebuilding this great venue and bringing boxing back to Long Island, big-time boxing back to Long Island. Brett?

Brett Yormark
Thank you, Lou. Appreciate everyone being on the call. Robert, thrilled that you’ll be headlining the card out at NYCB Live Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum with Omar. As Lou said, this fight effectively has been 31 years in the making. Big-time fights left Long Island many, many years ago and we’re thankful to be playing a small role in bringing back boxing to Long Island.

Everyone knows the impact that Brooklyn Boxing has had not only on the industry but obviously here in Brooklyn at Barclays Center and the great fights, the compelling matchups, all of that and more, people will experience at a very high level on July 15th when we open-up Brooklyn Boxing on Long Island for our fans.

We’re so thrilled to be a part of it, very excited about it. Ticket sales are going extremely well. It’s a great card from top to bottom and what I think I’m excited most about this card is I think it just very, very fan-friendly. Lots of action is anticipated so it should just be a great night from top to bottom of Premier Boxing Champions at the Coliseum.

So thank you Lou for all your support. Robert, thrilled that you’ll be with us on the 15th, same with you Omar and looking forward to seeing you both in a couple of weeks.

L. DiBella
Thanks, Brett. The tickets start at $50 and they’re on sale now. They can be purchased online at ticketmaster.com, nycblive.com by calling 1-800-745-3000 or at the Ticketmaster box office at NYCB Live so you can purchase them at the Nassau Coliseum.

It’s a terrific card as Brett said from top to bottom, an action card and all three fights televised fights on FOX should be brawls. There’s what I’m calling the Polish heavyweight championship between Artur Szpilka and Adam Kownacki who is right now the best Polish-American heavyweight. That’s been a very big anticipated bout in the Polish community and should be a brawl.

Seanie Monaghan, the pride of Long Island, lives about a stone’s throw from the Nassau Coliseum fighting Marcus Browne, one of the top young 175-pounders in the world in a fight that has great interest for Long Island and this main event between Omar Figueroa and Robert Guerrero really can’t miss. This really does figure to be an all-action, all-out war.

Both these guys are warriors. Both of them come forward and throw. Neither one of them is a runner. They’re both really, really true warriors in the historic sense of the great Mexican and Mexican-American fighters. Robert Guerrero is a six-time world champ.

He’s held titles in every organization. He’s been a champ in four divisions from featherweight, super featherweight, lightweight all the way to welterweight and this fight will be contested in the welterweight division.

He has a tremendous resume, went the distance with Floyd Mayweather, Thurman and Garcia, wins over loads of recognizable names, really one of the true champions of his generation. He’s trained by his dad Ruben Guerrero and Ruben would you like to say a few words?

Ruben Guerrero
Yes, man, all I got to say is that, I want to thank everybody that’s going to be tuning-in to PBC this is going to be a great fight. It’s going to be a war like you said. This is going to come down to a war so we’re doing what we got to do.

We’re going to be ready and that’s all I got to say is we’re going to be super ready for this fight and this is a fight we want and it’s going to be great for the fans and they can’t miss this fight because like you said, it’s going to be a great fight, a tremendous fight. They both can fight.

L. DiBella
Agreed, these are two guys that really can fight and two guys that need this win and two guys that are going to throw down really, really hard and frankly Robert Guerrero’s never done anything his whole career but throw down. He’s a 110 percenter as I call them, the kind of guy that never gives less than everything he has and has always been in good fights, a true champion. My pleasure to introduce Robert Guerrero.
Robert Guerrero
Great, thank you Lou, appreciate those words. I’m ready to go, I’ve just been training hard, been doing what I got to do, been studying a lot of film, Omar’s a tremendous fighter, he’s a barnburner.

He comes to fight all the time and he’s very awkward, the way he switches positions, his footwork, the type of pressure he puts and the volume of punches he puts out so he’s one of the guys you got to be super ready for.

If you’re not ready for him, he’s just going to pound you down into the mat. With that being said I’m that same type of fighter. I’m the same type of fighter that comes in very great shape, who throws a lot of punches and loves to throw fastballs all the way to the end.

It’s going to be a barnburner; I think a lot of people are excited for this fight. I’m excited for it because I know Omar’s the type of guy that doesn’t run, when guys come out of Texas, they come to fight all the time so it’s going to be exciting.

It’s exciting to be back in the ring especially on FOX, the new venue out there in Long Island, I’m really pumped-up to be able to have the opportunity to come-out and fight on the East Coast and I know I have a lot of fans out there and it’s going to be a treat especially getting in the ring with a guy like Omar who comes to fight.

I’m excited for this. I’ve been training hard like I said and I’ve been doing all the homework I need to do. Some fights I come-up short, it comes down to lack of preparation and for this fight I’m going to be very prepared for it and like you said Lou, this is a must-win for both of us so I can’t wait to get out there in July and take care of business.

Q
Robert, you mentioned you lost some fights because of a lack of preparation before. What would be different this time?

R. Guerrero
Getting back to the basics, it’s like in any sport, you got to come back to the basics and not just, have an ego and just think you’re going to move everybody down and put that pressure and just knock somebody out.

When I came-up to 147 pounds, I had something to prove. Everybody’s saying that I’m crazy, I’m too small for the weight class so it went to my head thinking hey, I got to mow these guys down. I got to show them I’m big enough to be here and bad enough to be here and it’s not a smart fight.

My father tells me things in the corner and just it’ll go in one ear and out the other and I would do what I want and that comes down to you know, lack of preparation, mentally, just blocking stuff out and just going where you got to be smarter than that in the ring and use your head so we went back to a lot of things we’d been doing before in the ring.

What got me there, what got me to be able to get up to the 147 pounds and right through different weight divisions so getting back to those basics and using your God-given abilities is what gets you there to the show and if you don’t use them, you throw them out the door. You go back to square one

Q
Are you aware of how people perceive you as a fighter and what’s your mindset?

R. Guerrero
Oh, most definitely, when they start calling you the gatekeeper, that makes it start, you’re an opponent, pretty much, for the guy to make that next step. So it comes down to like I said lack of preparation and not being 100% prepared like I should, listening and doing what I have to do in the gym.

Listening to my father in the ring, what to do and just it comes down to that, but actions speak louder than words and all I can do is just show the world what I’ve been working on.

Q
Where will the big fights be going to Barclays or Nassau?

L. DiBella
I’ll take that one. I think that you’re going to see a lot. You’re going to see the same kind of volume of fights you’ve been seeing in Brooklyn at Barclays Center and for a card that makes sense for Nassau and Long Island and depending on date availability there’s a second venue that’s a great venue for boxing also.

I think it’s going to be a case-by-case basis but I wouldn’t expect less volume than you’ve seen previously. I think you’re going to see huge fights with the same kind of frequency at the Barclays Center.

Nassau’s another great venue run by great people and people we work with regularly and the best in the business and this’ll be the first I think of many shows at Nassau but don’t expect anything fewer at Barclays.

Q
Robert, you’ve had a nice long break here, it’ll be almost a year in-between fights. How much as that helped you and how much did you need a break like that?

R. Guerrero
It helped me a lot. It helped me a great, great deal because being able to regroup and rest your body. I’m in my 30s now, you got to be smart about things and take care of your body and before, I would just go all out training hard and do things that you push over the boundaries.

It’s being smart about things and then also to be able to look back at everything and regroup, what I was doing wrong, the preparation and really assessing everything in my career and what took that left turn and getting right back on path where I’m supposed to be.

And it just really helped out a lot and being ready for this next fight. I’m having a great camp so far. I’m excited. I felt great. My body feels good. I’m doing a lot of things that I haven’t been doing in a long time so I’m going to be ready for this fight and I’m excited for it.

Q
What are some of the things that you hadn’t been doing that you’re doing now?
R. Guerrero
Using my head. Using my head in the ring, being smart about things, just like I said earlier with the other question was not listening in the corner just wanting to mow people down, getting out there and just trying to make a statement and prove a point to everybody that I can fight at 147 pounds.

The welterweight division is stacked, you got all these guys, everybody’s putting their skills to work and you’re the one that’s just coming-in and just trying to mow guys down. It doesn’t work with the type of talent that’s at 147 pounds right now.

Q
You mentioned earlier about the words gatekeeper and opponent being used as it pertains to you. How much motivation is that given you as you train for this fight?

R. Guerrero
Oh, it gives a lot of motivation, you want to be known as one of the top fighters in the division and one of the best and to be categorized as a gatekeeper or the stepping stone for this guy, if this guy if he can get past this test he’s on his way.

No, you want to be the guy that they’re on their way to, so it does motivate you. It gets you excited, gets you out there to work hard and really look back at everything and think about what you’ve been doing in the ring and being smart about things so it really does light a fire under you.

You get a lot of fighters who go out there and say oh, I’ve had the best camp ever, this and that and I’ve been doing this and blah, blah, blah but 90% of the time the adversity is not there they don’t change anything.

They just keep going about their thing so when your back’s against the wall and you got to fight your way out that’s when you got to use your head. You got to be smart. You got to say hey, let’s see what’s going on, let’s see why we’re in this corner and let’s take care of business.

Q
Robert, Figueroa is obviously a relentless guy who’s always coming forward and everything. Have you kind of assessed him as a fighter or maybe what some of his strengths and weaknesses are?

R. Guerrero
As far as Figueroa being a fighter, he’s a very tough guy. Volume puncher, can take a good punch, puts a tremendous amount of pressure but there’s a lot of flaws in his style, there’s a lot of flaws you can capitalize on but that being said the type of style he brings makes things very awkward for other guys.

The way he switches and with the amount of pressure he puts and the volume of punches he puts out, it makes it tough for fighter to adjust to that and really get on his game plan. He’s a tough guy, he comes to fight, throws a lot of punches, he’s very awkward, it’s about putting your game plan together and being smart and not letting yourself fall apart during the fight.

Now I noticed a lot of fighters that he’s fought, with the amount of pressure and punches he throws and his awkwardness, they tend to fall apart, as they go through the fight and then, you know, they start to lose their game plan and, you got to be really headstrong in there and be able to you know, stay on your game throughout the whole fight.

Q
He’s only fought at welterweight one time, it was a little lower than the welterweight limit. How much of an advantage do you feel that is for you?

R. Guerrero
You can say it’s an advantage or it depends how he steps in the ring. You can say you have the advantage because I’ve had more fights at 147 pounds but then also you can say hey, you know what? I’ve had some wars at 147 pounds.

With him coming from the lighter weights, coming up, he’s more fresh, he’s had some time off, he’s been training so hey, you know what? Time will tell how it’s going to go down in the ring.

Q
What do you think he’s thinking moving up to fight you and is that a mistake if he’s thinking that this is going to be an easy fight toward the end?

R. Guerrero
I don’t think he’s thinking it’s going to be an easy fight, knowing my background and how I come and what type of fighter I am, but when I jumped-up in weight and fought Aydin it was one of those things where I had a spectacular fight.

I was on my game, I was boxing good, I was inside good, outside I was moving and hit him with some shots, hurt him, I mean, it was a great war and Aydin being such a big puncher, strong guy who mowed guys down and bullied them, it kind of went to my head where you know, hey, I can do this. I can stand there and trade with these guys. I can mow these guys down.

This guy Aydin right here, nobody wanted to fight him and I came and just took him out, put it on him, you know, I think that fight kind of hurt me mentally where I thought I was unstoppable and I’m just going to mow through guys and you’ve seen a glimpse with it also too after that with Andre Berto where I just walked him down and just punished him.

And those type of fights right there, moving-up to 147 really kind of I think mentally made me just say you know what, I’m big and bad and now I can walk anybody down and then you run into guys like Thurman who are the biggest guys in the weight class who are big punchers.

Like I said before in the earlier question where you know, the type of talent that’s at 147 pounds, you can’t do that. You’ve got to be smart and you got to be able to go out there and take care of business and put your skills to work.

Q
Do you think he’s thinking the same thing or do you think he’s looking at you as the easier of other of all of other potential choices at this weight?

R. Guerrero
No, I think he’s looking at this fight as, I’m a fighter, I come to fight, no matter what it is.

I think that’s the reason why he’s preparing very well. We were trying to make this fight earlier this year and they said they needed more time to prepare and so it got moved and it’s one of those things where I think knowing he’s at 147 pounds in his previous fight, know like hey okay, now these guys are bigger.

Now I got to change some things up so I think he’s going to be very prepared for this fight and he’s coming to fight. He’s coming ready, especially training with Joel Diaz, I know his guys.

I fought a few of his guys before and they come to fight and he gets his guys very prepared and ready to rock and roll and not just prepared as in a boxing way but they’re prepared to go to war so I know it’s going to be a great fight.

Q
Do you need to be a little bit of a boss in this fight, show him that he’s in a new weight class with you guys that are perhaps stronger than he’s faced before?

R. Guerrero
I think I just got to come out and do my job, come out and work and put my game plan together during the fight. Keep everything together throughout the fight and, you know, come do my job, just come 100% ready and prepared.

I know every time I get in that ring, it can change in a heartbeat where one or two punches changes my whole attitude and it’s like now I got to show this guy, but it’s about being smart and using my head in the ring and that’s what I’m going to do.

Q
Do you think this is going to be a fair gauge of what you have left to offer the sport?

R. Guerrero
Oh yes, most definitely, this fight right here’s going to show a lot and it’s going to show a lot to the fans, it’s going to show a lot to the boxing world, getting in there with a young Figueroa who loves to come and exchange and throw a lot of punches and who loves to just abuse the fighters and put it on them.

It’s one of those fights where you know, like I said before, action’s going to speak louder than words. It’s time to just show them what I got a lot left and I got to come and take care of business fight night but this does lead to the bigger picture where to get back into the title contention but you got to take care of business first with Figueroa to be able to take that next step.

Q
Let’s say hypothetically you win on July 15, what do you envision say, in the next 12 months?

R. Guerrero
It’s funny you say you don’t want to look past but every fighter does no matter what. Every fighter’s looking beyond that horizon, what are the possibilities and there’s huge possibilities.

There’s a lot of big fights out there, there’s a lot of championship fights out there. A great thing being Al Haymon and PBC he’s not scared to mix it up and throw fighters in with tough guys and make the fights.

I’m excited that I’m in this position and this fight right here, it’s going to get me over that horizon to see what’s up next, what’s next in my career so fight night we got to take care of business.

Q
Do you think you have it in you to fight a smart fight against Omar Figueroa yet at the same time provide that entertainment factor that always comes with every Robert Guerrero fight?

R. Guerrero
My name Guerrero means warrior so you just never know what happens. You never know what happens within that ring and sometimes you got to change it up, the game plan’s not working, sometimes it’s just like hey, listen, we got to go to war, we got to go to war.

Let’s go to war but, it’s taking this time I had off like I said before I was able to regroup and look at everything, assess everything, my career, how I’ve been fighting, stuff I’ve been doing wrong in the gym, stuff I’ve been taking advice here, taking advice there, doing this, doing that, just everything that comes along with it and I’ve been able to regroup and put it together and God willing everything goes great and we can do it fight night.

Q
You spoke about using your head with these guys but ironically with Omar’s style, do you like your chances to mow him down since it’s likely he’s going to kind of keep it toe to toe and keep the pressure on you as opposed to being a pure boxer?

R. Guerrero
Oh yes, don’t get me wrong, I was just kind of saying I’m using my head don’t mean I’m going to be able to be here on my toes prancing around and moving and moving, I’m there to fight.

I’m here to fight and when it comes down to talking about using my head, I’m talking about putting on my skills to use and doing things that I haven’t done in the boxing gym, listening to my father in the corner on taking advice on what I need to do and what I need to change-up.

But don’t get me wrong, using my head I was never that type of dancing around, moving around boxer. I’ve always been that type of boxer where I’ll stand there in the pocket, and stuff like that so yes, don’t get me wrong. I’m not there to run around move and shake and bake. I’m there to fight.

Q
Fighting in New York, does it bring any extra excitement for you or is this a case of once you’ve been in one ring, you’ve been in all of them?

R. Guerrero
Yes, you hit it right on. Once you’ve been in one ring and done it for a long time and you’ve been different places, out of the country to fight and a whole bunch of different places, it comes down to just being ready and knowing how to get in there and take care of business. I’m excited to be coming-out to the East Coast and doing it.

Q
Do you view this as your final opportunity for a serious run at a world title?

R. Guerrero
No, you know, I think it’s at a critical point where you got to take care of business. Anything can happens in boxing, that’s the one nice thing about the type of fighter than I am, you’re always relevant in your division because you ain’t no pushover. You come to fight so every fight, you got to take it like it’s your last and you got to be ready.

Q
Ruben, do you feel just as much pressure for a victory just from a training perspective for your son?

Ru. Guerrero
Well, I never feel pressure, this ain’t our first bout, we’ve been there already but we’re warriors, we’re Guerreros man and once we get in that ring, it changes to a whole different ballgame.

We’re coming ready to fight, we come prepared. My son gets ready and all I’ve got to say man is we’re going to prove to the world where we’re going to be at for the next fight, man.

We’re fighting the top-tier young kid, young buck, but it all comes down like my son said it comes down to skills and listening to me and we’re going to have a defense for this kid and everybody is going to be surprised when we get in that ring.

We’re not coming just to fight, we’re coming to win and we’re coming with a smart plan and the world’s going to see what we’re all about. We’re going to be back in the game, we’ll be back in the talk and I’m confident that we’re going to win, and as he said we’re Guerreros man and we’re coming to win.

R. Guerrero
I’m just ready to go. I’m excited for the fight. How’s it going, Omar? See you July. I’m excited, I’m excited and I can’t wait for the fight. I’m excited about this fight it’s a big opportunity on FOX and we’re going to be ready. We’re going to be ready to take care of business and see you guys fight night and let’s get it on the road.

L. DiBella
Now I’m going to turn this over to Team Figueroa, you know, Omar 26-0-1 with 18 KOs, former WBC lightweight champion and he moved-up to welterweight in 2015, got a load of good wins, real warrior, the same kind of vein as Robert and this figures to be an all-out brawl as we’ve been saying.

He’s got one of the best trainers in the business, a guy that I have tremendous respect for, I think there’s very few better right now in boxing than Joel Diaz and Joel do you want to say a few words?
Joel Diaz
Well, thank you guys for having us here. Like Robert said, we’re there to put-up a great fight. Omar has been here since the beginning of the year, he took care of his issues.

He had a little bit of issues and took some time off, well deserved. He had a great career already. Omar is the type of fighter that people want to see as well as Robert Guerrero, they come to fight.

That’s why I think this fight it separates fights for the fans. Omar and Robert I think they’re going to give the fans what they want to see, a great exciting fight and, preparation for Omar Figueroa oh, it’s been great.

His weight is not an issue anymore. He’s been doing really, really well. In the past I know he had a little bit of injuries on his hand in training and that’s what we focused on, maintaining them, maintaining them so he’s healthy.

He’s 100%, have no injuries whatsoever so for July 15th, Omar Figueroa will be 100% ready to give the best of his ability and come back with a victory. I want to say thanks to Robert Guerrero, he’s such a professional person, you know, it’s been a while to see him and I’m looking forward to seeing him July 15th.

L. DiBella
Thank you, Joel and now with a record of 26-0-1 with 18 KOs the former WBC lightweight champion, one of the best young welterweights in the world, a guy who’s a warrior in the truest sense like Robert Guerrero which is why this is a can’t-miss fight. My pleasure to introduce Omar Figueroa. Omar?

Omar Figueroa
First off want to say thank you guys for having me on and thank you to Robert Guerrero and his camp for accepting the fight and hey, I’m at a loss for words when it comes to how excited I am to be back and I’ve missed everything that has to do with this. I’ve been on big stage before and, at the same time it’s something that I crave.

I’m not about the whole spectacle about boxing. I feel like I enjoy it in a pure form. I like the challenge. I like the adrenalin rush that I get. The bigger the challenge, the better and the thing that happened was that the challenges were getting to be too big because I wasn’t able to prepare for fights properly or I had injury and I had this and I had that.

And it was just getting to a point where I was killing myself just to be on that stage and at that level and that’s why I took this break. I’m back now. I’ve been training here with Joel since January and it’s been great. I feel great. My body is healed. My mind if relaxed and that is all I could ever ask for so July 15th I should be at the top of my game. If not, close to it.

Q
Are there any plans to adjust during the fight and Joel also have you worked on the Plan B just in case, you know, Robert Guerrero’s effective moving and throwing a lot of punches?

J. Diaz
Well, we work for every style, when we’re in the gym, we prepare for Plan A, Plan B, Plan C if it’s necessary because things change. You can prepare for one style and that night he can change but if Robert Guerrero decides to come forward and make it a fight, he’s going to have a war because, he’s stepping in the ring against one of the most aggressive fighters that I’ve known and that’s Omar Figueroa.

And if he decides to box as well, Omar’s been in the ring with the boxers, brawlers, there’s nothing Omar has not seen in that ring that we cannot be prepared for so whatever Robert Guerrero decides to do, we’ll be ready.

Q
Omar, as you’re getting a little older, are you concentrating a little more on power punching maybe a little less and putting a little more behind the punches?

O. Figueroa
Well, the thing is that I couldn’t put more behind my punches because my hands were just a wreck so I had to make-up for that lack of power with volume as you said and everything has to have this sort of equilibrium so I wasn’t able to put the power behind my punches, the speed like totally effective.

So I made-up with work, I worked harder to get the points that I needed to win the fight so I don’t know how my hands are going to feel. I am reluctant to go 100%. We’ve debated different things that we could do so that I can mentally just feel comfortable and let go of my hands but it’s something that lingers, my hands feel great and I can punch a wall right now with full force but mentally I won’t allow myself to do so.

So it’s something that like Joel says once you get into the fight, we’ll see what Guerrero’s going to bring to the table and we’ll adjust accordingly.

Q
And Omar even though you’ve had tremendous success in your career thus far, the feeling is you haven’t gone as far as you potentially could, are you aware of that? Where did you think you would be at this particular stage compared to where you are now?

O. Figueroa
Definitely, nobody knows what I’m capable of more than myself. Honestly, once I started having my injuries I kind of stopped thinking too far ahead. I never did that. I always liked to focus on the task at hand and especially like I said with the injuries, it kind of brings a little back down to Earth and it’s to see your life as it truly is and so I was taking it one fight at a time.

I’m just grateful that I’m able to be at this stage and perform at this level and to have the honor of being in the ring with these kinds of guys and to work with, one of the top trainers in the world is just I’m just grateful for the opportunity that I’m getting. I’ve worked by ass off to be here and I’m just taking advantage or trying to at least.

Q
Have you looked at all past Robert Guerrero some of the possibilities that could be awaiting you?

O. Figueroa
No, sir. The only thing I’ve looked at past Guerrero was going and getting a hot dog and maybe some pizza there in New York City.

Q
Omar, first of all this is Father’s Day coming up what does that mean to you?

O. Figueroa
Well, it means that yet another Father’s Day I’m going to spend here training away from my kids and at the end of the day I got to, look at the bigger picture and know that I’m doing this for them and I talk to my kids often on the phone and my daughter immediately the first thing she does is tells me that she loves me and I always see my son as well.

So I know that I’m missed. They know that this is a sacrifice for everybody but I know that at the end of the day that it’ll all be worth it.

Q
Do you see any similarities between either the careers of the guys you’re fighting or in terms of Robert being a southpaw and DeMarco being a southpaw?

O. Figueroa
There’s actually a big, big difference for each one. The preparations that the way the preparation happened for each fight. For Ricky Burns I didn’t do any boxing training whatsoever. I had a fractured hand. For DeMarco I had a messed-up elbow and I got sicker before the fight and right now I’m feeling great. My body is totally cooperating with me and so preparation has been different as well.

I feel great. The weight shouldn’t be a problem and it’s just you never know what training camp’s going to bring. It always has little surprises for us so hopefully it doesn’t surprise me too bad and we get to make it to the fight in one piece and as close to 100% as possible and I don’t know.

I’ve always said, I’m excited to see what I’m able to do in the ring when I’m close to 100% at least and it just hasn’t happened yet so I’m hoping this’ll be the one.

Q
So this is would you say in terms of how healthy you’ve been in your last four or five fights, how healthy are you compared to those fights? Is this the healthiest you’ve been or close to the healthiest?

O. Figueroa
Yes, it’s the healthiest I’ve been. This is the healthiest I’ve been since 2013 that year that I had my I had two first-round knockouts and then I had fight of the year with Arakawa but the difference is that in the Arakawa fight I fractured both of my hands in that fight so I mean, before the fight for the preparation like I said this is as healthy as I’ve ever been.

Q
Do you predict that it’ll be a brawl just like Lou DiBella said at the beginning of the calls?

O. Figueroa
Well, that’s what they all say. They all say that they’re going to stand in the middle of the ring and go toe to toe and blah, blah, blah but it tells a different story once you start getting hit. It’s like Mike Tyson says, everybody has a plan till you get hit.

So I feel that things will change once he steps in the ring with me and he sees how hard I hit and how effective I am on the inside and then it’ll be more of me chasing after him for a few rounds hopefully. Hopefully I’m right.

Q
So do you feel as though you’re going to back him up and if you do back him up, have you seen him in any fights at this weight being effective in retreat?

O. Figueroa
I have not. That’s something Joel and I have to discuss and go through, see what the plan’s going to be. We prepare it like he says we prepare for every style, we’re ready for whatever comes our way and normally like everyone knows I go forward. I don’t know, we’re going to have to figure that out as a team.

Q
Omar, did it kind of ease the pain watching your brother Brandon develop in the ring for the past year because I know you’ve been a constant presence in his career?

O. Figueroa
Yes, no, I mean, if it’s kind of been bittersweet. It’s made me miss the fight game but at the same time it’s kind of eased my worries having him in the spotlight, having him go through what I go through and I was kind of living vicariously through that so it did help and actually what was one of the reasons why I decided to take that break physically because I wanted him to be in the spotlight.

I needed that break regardless but he can shine and take advantage of the opportunities to prove he hasn’t taken anything for granted, so it’s better for me.

Q
Why Robert Guerrero after a 17, 18-month layoff?

O. Figueroa
Oh that wasn’t my decision.

On Saturday, June 24, 2017, professional boxing returns to Miami Beach as Warriors Boxing presents “Night of the Rising Stars 2” at the Deauville Beach Resort.

The second of Warriors Boxing’s series of Miami-area fights designed to develop local and international prospects, NORS 2 will feature popular and talented light heavyweight Robert Daniels Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) of Miami looking to remain perfect in the light heavyweight division.

24-year-old southpaw light heavyweight Robert Daniels Jr. is the son of former cruiserweight world champion Robert “Preacherman” Daniels, the only Miami-born fighter to hold a major world title.

Daniels Jr. started boxing at 10 years old and went 64-6 as an amateur boxer. Among his many accolades, he won the Sunshine State Games twice, the State title twice, the Platinum Gloves, the Junior Olympic regionals.

A boxer/puncher with excellent counter-punching skills, Daniels is trained by former world champion John David Jackson.

Also scheduled for action are undefeated super welterweight John David “Pretty Boy” Martinez (6-0, 5 KOs) of Miami in a six-round battle; undefeated Miami welterweight Chris Velez (7-0-1, 4 KOs) in a six rounder; and undefeated bantamweight Lawrence Newton (6-0, 4 KOs) of Boynton Beach, Florida, will fight a six-rounder.

In preliminary action, popular undefeated cruiserweight Ulysses Diaz 2-0 (2 KOs) of Miami will fight a four-round battle; Miami super bantamweight Jessy Cruz (11-6-1, 4 KOs) will fight six; undefeated Dominican super welterweight Edurado Perez Diaz (3-0, 3 KOs) will go four rounds; and Cuba’s undefeated Irosvani Duvergel (2-0, 2 KOs) of Guantanamo will go four super middleweight rounds.

Tickets for “Night of the Rising Stars 2” are priced at $100 Ringside, $65 Reserve and $35 General Admission and are available at Ticketforce.com. VIP tables can be purchased by contacting Warriors Boxing: 954.985.1155.

“We have put together a terrific night of fighting at a beautiful venue for the great boxing fans in Miami,” said Leon Margules, President of Warriors Boxing. “These shows were created to put local and global talent in the types of fights that will make them better fighters and weed out those who haven’t got it.”

All opponents will be announced shortly. The Deauville Beach Resort is located at 6701 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach, Florida. On fight night, doors open at 6:00 pm and the action starts at 6:30 pm. All bouts subject to change.
About Warriors Boxing
Launched in 2003, Warriors Boxing operates under a simple philosophy-bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans, match them in competitive bouts, and in doing so help re-establish the sport of boxing for a new generation.

With a series of successful Pay-Per-View shows and packed houses to its credit, the Warriors business model is working wonders in a sport that was sorely in need of the innovation and energy that the company brings to the table.

When it comes down to it though, a promotional company is only as good as the fighters and fights it promotes. Warriors Boxing has delivered on all fronts, with outstanding bouts such as Lara-Molina, Cayo-Peterson, Abraham-Miranda I and II, Miranda-Pavlik, Miranda-Green, Ibragimov-Briggs, Ibragimov-Klitschko, Urango-Hatton, Urango-Bailey, Cayo-Maidana and Ibragimov-Holyfield.

For more information on Warriors Boxing, visit their website at www.WarriorsBoxing.com.

ORANGE, Calif. (June 15, 2017) – Rising lightweight prospect Manuel Mendez (15-1-2, 11 KOs) hopes to extend his knockout win streak against Mohamed Rodriguez (9-4, 3 KOs) in the 8-round “Path To Glory” main event on Friday, June 23, from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Mendez vs. Rodriguez will be streamed live on TB Presents: Path To Glory. Watch the action 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, from Indio, Calif. by way of Oregon, has dispatched his last four opponents by way of knockout. If not for a second round technical draw that occurred last June, Mendez’s knockout win streak would likely sit at seven.

In that June match against Ricardo Maldonado – whom Mendez had defeated previously early in his career – the Indio striker badly hurt Maldonado in the opening round, scoring a knockdown with a counter right hook to the head.

In the second, Mendez continued his bruising style and battered Maldonado with powerful shots to the body. The two eventually bumped heads with Mendez suffering a cut above his right eye. The ringside physician ruled Mendez unable to continue, consequently declaring the fight a technical draw.

“I’m convinced I would have knocked out Maldonado if not for the head butt that caused that cut,” said the 26-year-old Mendez. “I was hurting him pretty bad.”

Delivering thunderous power shots has become a staple for the Joel Diaz-trained Mendez. He has become an expert at working his way inside and connecting with a series of power punches to the head and body. Rodriguez, who is based in Mexico, will have to box from the outside to stay competitive.

“Rodriguez is going to be in for a battle,” said Mendez, who hasn’t lost a fight since his professional debut nearly seven years ago. “I’ll see what he has in the first few rounds and after that I’ll start making my move.”

In the 8-round co-feature, the technically polished Jessie 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.

The junior welterweight showdown is projected as a back-and-forth affair. The boxer that imposes his will on the other likely wins this highly intriguing match up. Roman comes from a boxing family with younger brother Jose considered a top prospect in the lightweight division.

The leading undercard fight matches undefeated featherweight Rafael Rivera (24-0-2, 15 KOs) against fellow Mexican native Ruben Tamayo (24-9-4, 16 KOs) in a bout set for 8-rounds.

Of the two, Tamayo boasts the more impressive resume having gone up against world championship talents like Jhonatan Romero, Oscar Valdez, and Jesus Cuellar.

Junior lightweight Michael Dutchover (4-0, 4 KOs) of Midland, Tex., who is one of the division’s most promising young prospects, 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.

Dutchover, 19, has shown an advanced skill set in his first four professional fights. He has displayed the ability to control a fight from the outside or in close quarters. Dutchover turned professional in October after a solid amateur career and is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions.

In other action, unbeaten junior bantamweight Saul Sanchez (2-0, 1 KO) of Indio faces Cristian Bartolini (2-3, 2 KOs) of Hermosillo, Mex. (4-rounds).

Opening the “Path To Glory” show are heavyweights Sergey Kuzmin (11-1, 7 KOs) of Russia and Malcolm Tann (24-4, 13 KOs) of Seaboard, N.C. (8-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.

LOS ANGELES (June 15, 2017): Undefeated Bantamweight Colombian and Los Angeles transplant Oscar “Jaguar” Negrete (16-0, 6 KOs) will square off against Sergio “El Frio” Frias (18-6-2, 9 KOs)at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in a 10-round main event for vacant NABF Bantamweight Championship in the June 30th edition of Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN.

This marks the 50th show that Golden Boy Promotions has put on at Fantasy Springs.

After Randy “El Matador” Caballero and Jesus “Estrella” Ruiz went down to injury, Negrete will now face a fighter in Frias who is coming off a knockout of former world champion Vic “Raging Bull” Darchinyan.

In the newly announced co-main event, super lightweight contender Ryan “Blue Chip” Martin (18-0, 11 KOs) of Chattanooga, Tennessee will bring his unblemished record to the desert in a 10-round fight against Marcos “El Tigre” Jimenez (22-7, 15 KOs) of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

Hoping to make TV, heavy-handed Genaro “El Conde” Gamez (4-0, 3 KOs) from San Diego, California, returns to Fantasy Springs for the first time since knocking an opponent clear out of the ring last September. This time, he will take on Miguel Barajas (2-2, 1 KO) from Guadalajara, Mexico in a six-round match-up of lightweights.

Former IBF and WBO Featherweight Champion, Mexican actor and circus performer Jorge “El Maromero” Paez (79-14-5, 51 KOs) will be the VIP guest for this June 30th Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN card. Best known for a fight career spanning nearly 20 years and three weight divisions, Paez faced many of the boxing greats in the 1990’s including Oscar De La Hoya, Genaro Hernandez, Rafael Ruelas and Jesus Chavez. As the VIP guest of the night, Paez will be in attendance for the fights and will be on hand to meet fans; sign autographs and take pictures inside the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center before the ESPN broadcast begins. The meet-and-greet is open to the public with the purchase of a ticket to the event.

Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN will air live on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes at 10 P.M. EST/7 P.M. PST.

On the live streamed portion of the card, undefeated WBC Youth Super Featherweight Champion Lamont Roach, Jr. (13-0, 5 KOs) of Washington D.C. puts his title and perfect record on the line against Huatabampo Mexico’s Jesus “Chuito” Valdez (20-2-1, 9 KOs).

Welterweight KeAndre “The Truth” Gibson (16-1-1, 7 KOs) will look to come back from the first loss of his career when he takes on Dennis “The Spartan” Dauti (14-2, 7 KOs) of Naousa, Greece in an eight-round affair.

Just two weeks after he is slated to fight in Dallas, San Antonio native and super featherweight Hector “El Finito” Tanajara Jr. (9-0, 4 KOs) is set to return against an opponent to be named later for a six round super featherweight bout.

Hot off his professional debut, standout amateur Luis Feliciano (1-0) from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and fighting out of Rancho Cucamonga will be back in action for a six-round super lightweight showdown against Baltazar Ramirez (3-2, 3 KOs) of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

And opening up the card, Philadelphia native Damon “No Smilin” Allen (11-0-1, 5 KOs) will put his undefeated record on the line in an eight-round match-up of lightweights against a soon-to-be-named opponent.

Tickets for the event start at $25 and will be available at the Fantasy Springs Resort Casino box office, by calling 1-800-827-2946, or by purchasing online at www.FantasySprings.com.

Negrete vs. Frias is a 10-round battle for the vacant NABF Bantamweight title presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, Born BOLD and Hennessey, Never Stop, Never Settle. Doors open at 4:00 p.m. PT and the first fight begins at 4:05 p.m. PT. The ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes telecast begins live from Fantasy Springs Resort Casino at 10:00 p.m. ET/7: 00 p.m. PT. The fights will also stream live on the ESPN app beginning at approximately 8:30 p.m. EST/5:30 p.m. PST.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and http://www.espn.com/boxing/; follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @ESPN, and @ESPNBoxeo; become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing and @OscarDeLaHoya. Follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN.

NEW YORK, NY – June 15, 2017 – Alliance MMA, Inc.(“Alliance MMA” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: AMMA), a professional mixed martial arts (MMA) company that brings together the best regional productions to build the next generation of MMA champions, announced today that it has acquired the assets of Roy Englebrecht Promotions, California’s longest-running fight promotion company, for consideration consisting primarily of common stock, as well as a lesser cash component.

Led by veteran promoter Roy Englebrecht, Roy Englebrecht Promotions currently promotes the “Fight Club OC” fight series at The Hangar on the grounds of the Orange County Fair & Event Center (http://www.fightcluboc.com/). Now celebrating its seventh season, Fight Club OC is on a three-year sellout streak. Recognized for inspired venue selection, Roy Englebrecht Promotions recently broadened its geographic reach by featuring the first of three “Rumble on the Water” MMA events this summer at the legendary Queen Mary attraction in Long Beach, California (http://www.queenmary.com/events/rumble-on-the-water/). The forward-leaning promotion also just announced the 2017 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum “Gladiator MMA Championship Series”, a four-fight event which will be staged at the Coliseum’s Peristyle under the Olympic Cauldron (http://www.coliseumgladiatormma.com/). Previously, Englebrecht promoted the “Battle in the Ballroom” boxing shows for 25 years, the longest-running club pro-boxing show in the country, and the first to feature both boxing and MMA in the same show.

“Roy has successfully promoted fights for more than 30 years, and has been involved in MMA since 2006 when the sport was initially legalized in California,” said Robert Haydak, President of Alliance MMA. “We feel extremely fortunate that Roy is joining the Alliance MMA team, and fully expect to tap into his extraordinary promotional experience right away. Beyond the seasoned industry acumen Roy adds to our enterprise, we’re equally as energized by Alliance MMA establishing a sustained, high-quality promotional presence in such a critically important media market.”

From 1975 through 1981, Englebrecht served as Director of Promotions for the Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Kings, and all Forum events. While at the Forum, he developed The Laker Girls dance team and coordinated the 1980 Lakers Championship Parade. In September 2009, he was inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame. In 2011, Oscar De La Hoya purchased Roy Englebrecht Promotions to form Golden Boy Promotions, fittingly appointing Englebrecht as its Chief Operating Officer, a position he held for three years prior to reestablishing Roy Englebrecht Promotions. Englebrecht is currently a Commissioner for the City of Newport Beach, Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission.

“As the busiest fight promoter in Southern California with 18 shows in 2017, I clearly recognize the importance of regional promotions, and the critical role they serve in identifying and nurturing the next crop of MMA champions,” said Englebrecht. “That is why the Alliance MMA business plan was of such interest to me and my company, and the primary reason I was so enthusiastic over the opportunity to get in on the ground floor. This is the right move, at the right time for my company, and all of us at Roy Englebrecht Promotions are excited to join the team at Alliance MMA.”

Roy Englebrecht Promotions now becomes the 11th regional MMA promotion represented under the Alliance MMA umbrella. The Company also promotes regional MMA events through New Jersey-based Cage Fury Fighting Championship (CFFC), Washington-based Combat Games MMA (COGA), Illinois-based Hoosier Fight Club (HFC), Tennessee-based V3Fights, Maryland-based Shogun Fights, Ohio-based Iron Tiger Fight Series (IT Fight Series), Florida-based Fight Time Promotions, and Georgia-based National Fighting Championship (NFC), as well as a San Diego-based promotion under the guidance of MMA luminary Eric Del Fierro, and a Tampa-based promotion under the guidance of veteran promoter John Prisco.

About Alliance MMA, Inc.
Alliance MMA (NASDAQ:AMMA) is a professional mixed martial arts (MMA) company that brings together the best regional productions. Alliance MMA’s mission is to identify and cultivate the next generation of fighters and champions for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and other premier MMA promotions.

With some of the world’s leading MMA promotions under the Alliance MMA umbrella, the organization aims eventually to host in excess of 125 events per year, showcasing more than 1,000 fighters. Alliance MMA is also dedicated to generating live original sports media content, attracting an international fan base, and securing major brand sponsorship revenue for live MMA events, digital media, and Alliance MMA fighters.

MMA is the world’s fastest growing sport with worldwide fans of approximately 300 million according to sports marketing research firm Repucom. MMA is a full contact sport that allows a wide range of fighting techniques, including striking and grappling from various martial arts and disciplines including Boxing, Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Karate and Muay Thai. Professional MMA fights are legal and regulated by state athletic commissions in all 50 states.

Alliance MMA, Inc. was incorporated in 2015 for the purpose of acquiring businesses that engage in the promotion of mixed martial arts (MMA) events. In 2016, the company completed an initial public offering that culminated in a listing on the NASDAQ stock exchange. Alliance MMA is the only mixed martial arts promotion company that is publicly-traded.

For more information, visit www.alliancemma.com

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements relate to anticipated future events, future results of operations or future financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “intends,” “expects,” “plans,” “goals,” “projects,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Actual results may differ materially from historical results or those indicated by these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors including, but not limited to, those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in our registration statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-213166) declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 2, 2016. Alliance MMA encourages you to review other factors that may affect its future results in Alliance MMA’s registration statement and in its other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

LAS VEGAS (June 15, 2017) – Unbeaten prospect Eddie Ramirez has made big leaps towards his world title dreams in the last year and he will continue on his path on Tuesday, June 20 when he takes on Erick Bone in the main event of Premier Boxing Champions TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes from Sam’s Town Live in Las Vegas.

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features a 10-round matchup between junior welterweight prospect Dennis Galarza and Mexico’s Omar Tienda plus an eight-round battle between unbeaten featherweight prospects Xavier Martinez and Prince Smalls.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, are priced at $15, $30, $45 and are on sale now. Tickets are available online at www.samstownlv.com/entertain.

Here is what Ramirez had to say about his training camp, his main event showdown and more:

Where have you been holding training camp and how is it going?

“I’m training in Garfield Park in Chicago with George Hernandez, who has trained me throughout my entire professional career. Training camp has been going great, I’ve been conditioned to stay ready because at any time a fight can come my way. I’m always prepared and I’ll show that on June 20.”

What did you learn about yourself from your last two fights (wins over previously unbeaten fighters Ryan Karl and Kevin Watts)? How have you been able to improve as a fighter?

“After fighting Kevin Watts, I immediately shifted my mentality as a fighter to be more in control and to be smarter. Because being a reckless fighter got me caught and got me knocked down. Ultimately I got the win, but I am thankful for that experience because it helped shape me as a fighter as I continue to face tougher opponents.

“The Karl fight showed off a different Eddie Ramirez. I was a more defensive fighter, I used my counters more and that mindset and growth is what got me the win and will help me get this next one against Bone.”

“My last two opponents have really helped me improve as a fighter. The ability has always been there, but I needed those experiences to bring it out of me. Each opponent has been tougher than the last and it’s been very motivating for me as a fighter to continue to be better and perfect my skill. I have always been the underdog so that’s never been a factor or worry for me, I just take each fight as they come and continue to be better. My defense is better, my athleticism has improved, and my mental ability has progressed.”

How do you see this fight with Erick Bone going?

“My expectations or thought process going into this next fight with Erick Bone is to get him out early. I don’t want the fight to go the distance, I have to do whatever I can do to get him out. He’s an aggressive fighter, he’s a technical fighter who has experience, but I am quicker.”

What are your goals for the next year of you career?

“A year from now I see myself fighting guys in the Top 10. I want whoever is on that list, I believe I will have progressed as a fighter who people know about and believe has the skill to fight for a world title. I just got to beat out whoever comes my way to show the world who I am and how talented I am as a fighter. I want the big names who are going to get me to the big stage for that world title”

# # #

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

Mayweather Promotions and The Floyd Mayweather Jr. Foundation will be collecting school supplies for their 5th Annual Back-2-School Supply Giveaway in conjunction with the upcoming boxing event. The giveaway will take place on August 5th at West Flamingo Park in Las Vegas, NV. Tickets to the fight will be offered in exchange for school supplies.

Must be a minimum of 3 items (for GA tickets & 5 for floor seating) which include: paper, pencils, markers, pencil boxes, construction paper, math flash cards, composition notebooks, colored pencils, protractor, spiral notebooks, scientific/graphing calculator, highlighters, dictionary/thesaurus, graph paper, index cards, and flash drive.
LIMIT: 1 ticket/per person*

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (June 15, 2017) – On Wednesday, June 14, the televised undercard of Andre Ward vs. Sergey Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” sat down to participate in roundtables with the media during Fight Week Powered by Monster. Head trainers Virgil Hunter (Team Ward) and John David Jackson (Team Kovalev) followed the group of boxing talent with respective roundtables of their own. 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 had to say:

Virgil Hunter, Trainer of Andre Ward

“[Andre’s] ring IQ speaks for itself but the worst mistake you can make is to underestimate the opponent’s IQ. We take it all the way to the top, whoever we’re fighting. The mindset is you’re the best in the world. You’re the best that ever did it. You don’t want to stop the bar on eight when you can go all the way to 10. The bar is set at 10 in giving Sergey the credit that he rightfully deserves. Look, I’ve said it before, but I’m a Sergey Kovalev fan. Just not this fight. But I’m a fan of his. I knew a long time ago that if we ever moved up to light heavyweight that we would meet. I understood that a long time ago.

“You can never tell what’s going on in a fighter’s mind. I tend to let Andre set the tone. If we have to change it up, then I’ll come in and we might change up a few things. But he’s been doing it so long and I trust him. I know exactly what I’m looking at when he’s fighting. He can set the tone. If the frustration becomes an asset for us, we’ll stay there and keep him frustrated.

“Me knowing Andre’s mindset and how he approaches things, I told him that we’ll train for a knockout. It doesn’t mean it’s going to come, but we’ll train for it. It’ll be quite evident in the fight. He’s going to get hit because you got to get hit to win and get knockouts. He’s been hit by Sergey and he described the punches just as I see the punches on TV, very sharp… not concussive but sharp. [A knockout] is a possibility. I’ve only trained Andre to purposefully knock out somebody twice – the first one was Chad [Dawson], the second one was this one. I never trained him to knock anybody out, but those two I did. Only twice have we changed strategy to stop somebody.

“What we want to do is make sure Sergey doesn’t get the flush punch. He might graze you, he might rush punch, he might punch you like ‘get off me’ as opposed to being planted and zeroed in and ‘boom’ give him that shot. Sergey never landed another punch after the knockdown. So, if Andre was hurt, how could he make Sergey miss? All you got to do is watch it after the knockdown.

“I’ll have to take Sergey at his word, but when I look at the fight, I just don’t see where he got tired. He continued to throw and he continued to press. I don’t see personally where he got tired and I think I can identify fatigue in a fighter pretty well. But I have to take him at his word.

“No, Andre never made any excuses about his fight. Look, it was a tough fight, a great fight. If you came to the fight and participated in the fight, you don’t have any excuses. I’m not making any excuses; I’m just saying we’re going to have a different fighter. That doesn’t guarantee victory or anything, just a different fighter.”

John David Jackson, Trainer of Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev

On the first fight against Ward:

“My opinion is the same now as it was that night: Sergey won the fight. If you look at the first half of the first fight Sergey dominated. If you look at the second half of the fight Ward got back in the game but Ward didn’t come back and dominate like the way everyone says he did. Especially with the knockdown, Sergey won the fight hands down but he unfortunately didn’t get the decision. For this fight, if he can fight the second half of this fight the way he fought the first half of the last fight, then of course we will win the fight. He has proved it publicly that he can outbox Ward at his own game. The question now is, can Ward come back and try to outbox Sergey at Sergey’s game? That is highly doubtful. Ward isn’t a big puncher and can he take Sergey’s body shot? We’ll see in the second fight what happens but if Sergey fights the second half of this fight the way he fought the first half of the last fight then he wins. I had the first half 5-1 or maybe 6-0 for Sergey but the second half I had it 3-3 or at best 4-2 for Ward. So, when you count in the knockdown, Sergey won the fight.”

On whether it’s the game plan to knock out Ward:

“No. Sergey needs to stick with his jabs and his combinations, put every round in the bank just like we did the first fight but in the second half he needs to sustain that attack. Don’t falter and he will win. If he goes for the knockout, he may not catch Ward. Ward is a very defensively sound-minded fighter. Sergey needs to be smart.”

On Sergey’s tiredness, late in the first fight:

“There is a different conditioning coach now so hopefully that helps him physically as well as mentally. They seem to work well together. If he did his job than Sergey will be fine. For the first fight Sergey was running 14 miles a day and I asked him why. I told him he was going to wear his legs out. He is still running but not nearly as much. He is saving himself for this time around. I told him that although he was fatigued he hid it pretty well. I couldn’t tell that he was fatigued. He got a different coach for the conditioning part and that should work for him. If it works for him physically, it will help him mentally. And that is a tremendous blow to help him win this fight. Now that he has brought a new guy in let’s see if that is what he needed to be more successful in his pursuit of Andre Ward.”

On prediction for the fight:

“I give Andre a lot of credit for being a very defensive-minded fighter. The fight might go the distance but that’s ok. We aren’t worried about that. If it goes the distance and Sergey does what he is supposed to do, he dominates; he should win hands down. Just think about this: if Sergey hadn’t slowed down and kept up the same pace he had, what would Ward have done differently? He would have gotten his ass whooped the same way because Sergey beat him in the first half of the fight the way he wanted to. Sergey slowed down and that allowed Ward to get back in the game. If he didn’t slow down, then what would Ward do? He would have still lost the second half of the fight the way he lost the first half. Sergey allowed him to get back in the game. He didn’t just do it; Sergey allowed him to get back in the game because he got tired.”

On the knockdown in the first fight:

“I wasn’t surprised he got up because Sergey didn’t hit him flush. It was kind of a grazing shot. It wasn’t full with his knuckles. If Sergey had hit him with a solid shot, Ward probably wouldn’t have gotten up. He got hit with a shot that wasn’t solid.”

On changes for this fight:

“We worked on the inside game. Both fighters held a lot and Sergey was to blame for that also. Now Ward thinks that he is going to hurt Sergey to the body and probably break him down. Well, guess what? If you watch Ward’s fights he grabs a lot. He is not a true inside fighter. He grabs a lot and he holds and hits with the free hand. As good as Sergey punches, do you think that he is going to stand there and take those kinds of punches to the body? No. Sergey’s mentality is different. He is a survivor-type fighter. He is defensively sound. Once he gets hit he is going to take off. He is not going to stand there and take those kinds of punches.”

Guillermo Rigondeaux (17-0, 11 KOs), WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion

“I can’t wait for Saturday night. The Mexican boxing community is going to be out there and every Mexican is ready for war, so we’re ready to put on a spectacular fight on Saturday. I believe my preparation has always been excellent and the Cuban school of boxing has always been something I’ve focused on. I believe, on Saturday, June 17, it will be shown. I train for one boxer at a time and when it comes, it comes. You just train hard all the time. No boxer intimidates me in any way. [Flores] is a good boxer and I’m impressed by his style, but I’m not intimidated by anyone. It’s a God-given gift to move [the way I do] in the ring and have the reflexes I have. It just kicks in. I go to work when I step into the ring.

“I’m 122 pounds, I’ve always been at 122 but I’ll still beat anyone at 126. Weight isn’t really much of a big issue for me. I just want the big names and the big fights. For really good quality boxing, it’s not really about size. It’s more about heart, conditioning, speed, experience, excellence – everything I’ve gone through. We live everyday based on the results and the good work we put in. All the people are intimidated to get in the ring with me.

“When you have two superstars like that – and two friends of mine – it’s hard to determine [who will win]. But they’re going to put on an excellent show on Saturday, June 17. Andre Ward will truly have to prove whether he’s the real champ and this is the real test.’

Moises Flores (25-0, 17 KOs), Interim WBA World Super Bantamweight Champion

“I feel great; I’m level-headed. I’m trying to take advantage of the opportunity and do what I need to do. [Rigondeaux] being favored is not really a big deal. I’ve been the underdog during my last five fights, so this is nothing new to me. I understand the game. I’m humble; I’m OK with it, I’m ready. I’m ready to fight.

“[My reach and height] is definitely an advantage. We’re definitely going to use that advantage – we just need to use it the right way. His age will play a part in [the fight], so we need to take advantage of it and my youth. But I’m sure he’s done his job in the ring and in the gym. But so have I. I think it will be one of the toughest fights of my career because of his boxing style. He operates from a distance, his legs are strong and he’s intelligent. He doesn’t have the same speed he once had, but he’s still fast. We just need to attack him and trap him. I think my boxing style can slow him down.

“These are the opportunities you train for. He’s a boxer in every sense of the word. But what can he – or any rival – do to me that life hasn’t already done to me. [Rigondeaux] is the posterchild of a real boxer and, for all that, I give him credit. People talk because they love to see action, blood, a horror movie. They want to see combat. Rigondeaux has talked a lot and we’re going to confront him in the ring. There will be action, there will be blood. I work for that.”

Dmitry Bivol (10-0, 8 KOs) – Interim WBA Light Heavyweight Champion

On changing opponents from Sullivan Barrera to Cedric Agnew, a Southpaw:

“Any fight with any level opponent can create problems for a fighter. This is boxing and anything can happen. I think that if I follow the plan that we have set everything is going to be good. I am definitely glad with the way things have gone now. It is my 11th fight and I am glad to be fighting on such a big event on HBO Pay-Per-View. It is a great honor. It is a great achievement for me. We have set certain goals with my manager, my trainer, my promoter and the rest of my team and so far, everything is going by the plan. I am very glad that everything is going the way it is.”

On the Russian light heavyweights:

“I have certain pressures in my career and in boxing most of those pressures come from what I have to accomplish for myself. The goals I have set are for myself. It really isn’t a competition or a comparison to other fighters from Russia or any other fighters in the division. As long as I am achieving what I have set out to do and as long as I am going beyond what I am supposed to be doing fight after fight, that is the achievement for me. That’s a win for me.”

On his opponent:

“I never really try to set the main goal of knocking somebody out. Obviously, I want to showcase a good, exciting fight. I will be looking for openings and if there are openings I will use as many of them as I can. Hopefully, I can try to finish the fight earlier but I am ready to go the full ten rounds if I have to.”

Cedric Agnew (29-2, 17 KOs) – Former WBO Light Heavyweight World Championship Challenger

On his opponent:

“I think he is a pretty tough competitor but that goes without saying because everyone is a tough competitor. My thing is to overcome what I am dealing with that night and to impose my will on him and come out with the victory. It is going to be an all-out war. I am just trying to take it to him the whole fight. The things they say about him [Bivol] are the same things they said about Kovalev. I didn’t run from Kovalev. I can take a hit. I just need to stand in there and try to overcome that storm for the first few rounds and stay focused, stay grounded and stay ready.”

On his title fight with Kovalev in 2014:

“I just underestimated him. It was a learning experience. I grew from it. I am still trying to grow. Afterwards, we went back to the gym and we worked on different things and worked on perfecting different parts of my craft. We’re not quite where we need to be but things are moving in the right direction. People don’t know certain things that a fighter deals with on fight night and in training camp. He could be feeling physically ready but not mentally ready. We need to give fighters a chance to prove themselves and comeback after a loss. People look at fighters like they are not human but we are human too.”

On his confidence for this fight:

“If I wasn’t confident I wouldn’t be taking this fight. My thing is to fight the best-of-the-best in my weight class, to prove to myself and prove to the naysayers out there. I have been the underdog in quite a few fights and it doesn’t bother me at all. My thing is, those who really know me know I am not an underdog. It is going to be an action fight. It is going to be a grit and grind war out there. I am here to showcase my talent, my skills and it is going to be an amazing fight. You’re gonna see me fight a hell of a fight. You’re gonna see a lot of Cedric Agnew come Saturday night.”

Luis Arias, USBA Middleweight Champion (17-0, 8 KOs)

“I should have been at this stage (in my career) already but timing is everything. For whatever reason, my timing is now. I’m a little late; I’m 27 and should be fighting for a world title by now. But give it another year and I’ll be fighting for a world title. I’m just going to make a statement. I’m going to get him [Magomedov] out of there and I’m just going to start calling out some names.

“The middleweight [division] is definitely one of the top divisions in the game right now; I think it’s middleweight, welterweight and heavyweight that are the popular divisions in the game. I’m coming out at the perfect time. There’s a mega-fight coming in September in my weight class. The goal is to get the winner.

“[Magomedov] has a good record. He has the best record that I’ve fought so far. I honestly don’t feel like he’ll be my toughest opponent. But like I said, we’ll have to wait and see. He’s coming off a loss; he got dominated by an opponent. He’s fighting an undefeated champion, who is very confident and strong. Had the best camp I ever had. We’ll just have to wait and see. If he’s willing to take it, I’m willing to dish it out for 10 rounds but it will be over before then. We’ll find out Saturday night.”

Arif Magomedov (18-1, 11 KOs) – Former NABO Middleweight Champion

On his only career loss:

“It was a long time ago; it was more than one year ago. I know I did a big mistake, I know what it was and right now I am preparing completely different. We are going to see everything is going to work for me for sure. I know why I lost the fight before and I know where I made my mistake. That guy was not very good and I was fighting in even more better fighters. I know how I’m going to work to (give him a loss).”

On his opponent:

“He’s a very good boxer; he never had a loss and I watched a lot of his fights. I saw the video on the internet about him and he’s very fast and a very tough guy. I think he is one of the best opponents I ever had. Anybody who saw my fights on the internet probably tell that I’m going all the time straight, I give a lot of power punches and I’m doing a lot of combinations all the time.”

On extra motivation coming to the United States as the underdog:

“I got the goal to have performance here in the United States and I am reaching it step-by-step. I’m going to the big shows and I know that one day I’m going to be a champion. People in the United States love boxing more than in my country. People are very loud here and you can feel the fans are very (interested) in the boxing; they know who is good in boxing.”

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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Juergen Braehmer says Paul Smith (38-6, 22 KOs) is not on the same level as Tyron Zeuge (20-0-1, 11 KOs) and is confident his protégé will defend the WBA World Super Middleweight title on Saturday, June 17 at the Rittal Arena in Wetzlar, Germany.

Braehmer, who guided Zeuge to his World title win over Giovanni De Carolis on November 5 at the MBS Arena in Potsdam, believes we have yet to see the best of the Berlin boxer, and expects him to show his class against his British challenger Smith.

‘’We do not underestimate Paul Smith, but if Tyron fights to his full potential, I have no doubt about the outcome of this fight,’’ said the former two-time World Champion. ‘’Smith is a strong fighter. He has a lot of experience, but he’s not on the same level as Tyron.

‘’Tyron is a great fighter but we have still not seen the best of him yet. His last opponent Isaac Ekpo was an ugly fighter. That was not a clean fight and it was not a good night for Tyron, but he defended his title, and he learnt a lot from that fight.

‘’Smith is a different type of fighter. I believe he will bring out the best in Tyron, and I’m expecting a great performance. Tyron has looked good in the gym. Tactically, he’s well prepared. He’s had a lot of tough sparring and his conditioning is better than ever.

The WBA World Super Middleweight Championship clash between Tyron Zeuge and Paul Smith will be shown live and exclusive on SAT.1 and ran.de in Germany, and Sky Sports in the UK. Tickets are available via www.eventim.de or by calling +49 (0) 1806-570044.

Sandy Row native Lewis Crocker has just one thing on his mind when he dips between the ring ropes. Committing carnage!

‘People pay to watch me smash someone, and that’s what I try to deliver. I’m never comfortable winning on points,’ disclosed the 20 year old Frank Warren promoted welterweight who hoovered up seven All-Ireland junior titles plus a European schoolboy bronze medal during a stellar 90-7 amateur career.

‘As a boxing fan myself, I love to witness knockouts, raw guys who attempt to take their opponent’s head off. So that’s what I intend to bring myself. I’m everything I’d want to see in a boxer.

‘For me, the highlight of my amateur career was a couple of brutal knockouts. I stopped a lot as a youngster even with the head guards on but it wasn’t until I put my opponent to sleep for several minutes over in Poland when I was about 15 that I realised I had proper knockout power. That shocked me a bit.

‘A few years after, I put another guy out cold in just 13 seconds – including the count – over in Spain. I believe only Mike Tyson holds a quicker recorded knockout!’

‘It’s not about being aggressive and gung-ho. You need to be smart. Every day I try to learn new things at the gym.

‘And it’s nothing to do with having big muscular arms. It’s just genetics; being able to rotate the legs, hips and torque, in synch. The left hook is the real danger but I can bang ‘em out with either hand.’

Yet the one they call ‘The Croc’ concedes he isn’t even the most fearsome fighter in his family.

He explains: ‘My sister Alanna (Audley-Murphy), who’s 10 years my senior, was involved in Ireland’s first ever female boxing match. She then won bronze at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and is still boxing in the British Army today. I was always scared of her, everybody was. Others might threaten older brothers to fight their battles, I’d threaten my big sister!’

Having already left a trail of prostrate bodies at his feet as an amateur, the 5ft 11in former World Junior rep promises to inflict even worse damage in the less sanitised professional sphere. Hapless Hungarian Ferenc Jarko was rubbed out in just 67 seconds on Crocker’s paid bow at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall in mid March.

‘When I first slipped those wee 8oz gloves on I thought: ‘Wow! I can cause damage with these!’ The moment I landed, I knew I’d hurt Jarko badly,’ states the Ray Ginley coached Belfast man who returns to the scene of that mugging this Saturday for his second pro gig against Bulgaria’s Radoslav Mitev. BoxNation screen live.

‘I was a bit worried when they put the oxygen mask on him. You don’t want to permanently damage an opponent but, at the end of the day, it’s a fight. They train to hurt me too, remember.

‘Sandy Row was a renowned rough neighbourhood but I was always an easy going kid who avoided confrontation. However, as soon as the gloves go on, I’m in the zone!’

Gary Corcoran has warned Larry Ekundayo there will be no friendly fire when they clash next month.

The pair meet on Frank Warren’s big ‘The Future Is Now’ card at London’s Copper Box Arena on July 8 with the Vacant WBO Inter-Continental Welterweight crown on the line.

That means a crucial top 15 world ranking for the winner when Wembley traveller meets his old mate over 12 rounds.

Corcoran, 28, said: “I know Larry really well from the gyms, but there is no friendship, right now. This is business for me.

“We are mates and even when we were not sparring got on very well. There is no bad feeling, but I just want to beat him

“I have sparred with Larry a lot before he beat Dale Evans. I was his main sparring partner for that fight.”

Corcoran who has won 16 of his 17 professional contests hopes an impressive win against the unbeaten London based Nigerian will earn a shot at Bradley Skeete who defends his British crown against Evans on the same bill.

He added: “It might not be for the British title, but I could face Bradley down the line. I am determined to reach the top and if Bradley is in the way I will fight him.

“Frank Warren asked if I wanted to fight Bradley and I said, ‘yes’, but I will fight anyone.

“I want the British title whether Bradley has got it. He is looking to move on, but if he doesn’t get a major fight he may hold on and fight me.

“Frank knows that I have never refused a fight and I will fight anyone as long as everything is right. Look at the fights I have taken like Liam Williams and Joe Selkirk pulled out twice against me.

“I will never refuse a fight.”

He has dropped down to welterweight after losing to bitter rival Williams in a British super-welterweight title challenge last July.

Corcoran says: “I was always a welterweight, but I have always liked to eat what I want. Before a weigh-in I would still have good meals because I was that comfortable.”

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; 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 Corcoran v Ekundayo priced at £40, £50, £100, £150 and £250 are available from:

www.eventim.co.uk

www.seetickets.com

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

TORONTO – Fight Network, the world’s premier 24/7 multi-platform channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, presents an action-packed live M-1 Global doubleheader from Harbin, China tomorrow, Thursday, June 15, starting with M-1 Selection 12 at 7 a.m. ET followed by M-1 Challenge 80: Battle in the Celestial Empire 2 at 9 a.m. ET, headlined by an explosive heavyweight slugfest pitting Russian great Sergei Kharitonov (24-6) against fellow Pride Fighting Championships, Strikeforce and Bellator veteran Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou (18-17).

Starting at 9 a.m. ET live on Fight Network in Canada, M-1 Challenge 80: Battle in the Celestial Empire 2 will also feature a clash for the M-1 featherweight championship, as Ivan Buchinger (31-5) takes on Russia’s Timur Nagibin (9-2). In other featured matchups, Russian featherweight Mikhail Korobkov (10-2-1) faces Chinese fan favorite Asikerbai Jinensibieke (12-5), Chinese featherweight Musu Nuertiebieke (8-1) welcomes India‘s Sascha Sharma (13-3) into enemy turf and battle-tested Ukrainian veteran Alexander Butenko (43-12-2) tangles with Australian welterweight Corey Nelson (20-6-1).

Starting at 7 a.m. ET live on Fight Network in Canada, the U.S. and globally in over 30 countries across Europe, Africa and the Middle East, the M-1 Selection 12 fight card includes an intriguing light heavyweight showdown between Brazil’s Carlos Eduardo (15-4) and undefeated German Rene Hoppe (7-0), plus Russia’s Artem Kazbanov (7-1) meets Pakistan’s Nosherwan Khanzada (3-5) in a middleweight bout, while Chinese trio Huyixibai (1-0), Kuerbanjiang (1-1) and Fu KangKang (4-4) are paired up against Georgia’s Ibragim Navruzov (3-0), Ukraine’s Maksim Melnik (3-3) and Russia’s Adam Tsurov (6-6), respectively.

Coming up this weekend, Fight Network delivers more live mixed martial arts from across the globe, anchored by 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). The event will re-air in its entirety at 6 p.m. ET and 9 p.m. ET.

On Friday, June 16 at 6 p.m. ET, Fight Network presents a live broadcast of TKO 39: Ultimatum in Canada, emanating from St. Roch, Quebec. 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 events this June.

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.

Phoenix, Arizona-based super middleweight phenom David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez spent some time behind the microphone last Sunday, while waiting eagerly for his potentially record-breaking world championship challenge.

Undefeated Benavidez (18-0, 17 KOs) did an admirable job serving as a Fox Sports 1 guest commentator for former champion Brand Rios’ exciting comeback victory over Aaron Herrera at the Pioneer Event Center in Lancaster, California.

Benavidez is coming off a star-making eight-punch combination KO 8 of fellow contender “Porky” Medina at the Laredo Energy Arena in Laredo, Texas.

The 20-year-old now waits for word on who he will face for the WBC Championship in his try to become the youngest super middleweight world champion in boxing history. Darrin Van Horn, who was 22 years, 8 months and 11 days old when he beat Lindell Holmes for the IBF super middleweight championship on May 18, 1991.

Meanwhile, highlights of Benavidez’s sensational victory over Medina continue to rack up views on YouTube. (Click HERE). At last count, the victory had garnered nearly 350,000 views. On the Premier Boxing Champions Facebook page, a similar video has 1.1 million viewers and on other pages, over 3.8 million.

“David is a talent at everything he does,” said his promoter, Sampson Lewkowicz. “Thank you to the PBC and Fox Sports for allowing him to reach a dream and work as a commentator while he awaits his ultimate dream: to become the youngest champion in history at 168 lbs.”
About Sampson Boxing
After a very successful run as a matchmaker and adviser, Sampson Lewkowicz switched over to the promotional side of professional boxing in January 2008.

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

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (June XX, 2017) – On the heels of the most anticipated fight of the summer, here is what some of the media are predicting for Andre Ward vs. Sergey Kovalev 2: “The Rematch” on 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.

Tim Dahlberg, Associated Press
I had Kovalev winning the first fight, so maybe I’m the wrong one to ask. But I think a boxer always has an easier time making adjustments than a puncher and that should favor Ward in the rematch. Ward has a good measure on Kovalev’s power and he’s really good at switching things up in the ring, as he did in the late rounds of the first fight. I think it goes the distance again, with Ward taking a unanimous decision.

Ward: Unanimous Decision
Bernard Fernandez, SweetScience.com
There is an expanding school of thought that Ward, the craftsman/technician, will be even better the second time around, having had 12 rounds and months of tape time to work out an even more intricate fight plan. I’m not sure I buy into that. Kovalev is no one-trick pony; he has skills to go along with superior power. If it’s a KO, he probably gets it, and it’s not out of the question that he can win on points as well. Let’s call it “Krusher” by 10th round stoppage.

Kovalev: 10th Round Stoppage

Keith Idec, BoxingScene.com
Kovalev by split decision. There isn’t much separating these elite light heavyweights. Expect another very competitive fight that includes several more very difficult rounds to score. Kovalev will win a debatable decision this time and create demand for a rubber match.

Kovalev: Split Decision

Michael Rosenthal, Editor Ring
Ward was successful in the second half of his first fight with Kovalev because he made necessary adjustments. I believe he’ll carry that knowledge and momentum into the rematch, which he’ll win by a unanimous decision in another competitive fight. No controversy this time.

Ward: Unanimous Decision

Matt Christie, Boxing News Online
Just like the first contest, this one is exceptionally hard to call and the events of that closer than close opener do little to make the job of choosing a winner any easier. Kovalev was a menace throughout, but perhaps the defining factor could be Ward’s ability to adjust. He did it in the first bout whereas Kovalev struggled to when it became clear the tide was turning. The pick is for Ward to win again on points, but without the controversy.

Ward: Unanimous Decision

Brian Campbell, CBSSports.com
Ward has already tasted Kovalev’s power and figured out ways to adjust and disarm “The Krusher.” That puts the pressure on the former champion. While you can expect Kovalev to be more aggressive, Ward just seems to have an answer for every style thrown at him.

Ward: Unanimous Decision
Willard Ogan, NBC Sports Bay Area
The fight will start slow with Ward working inside. Body shots will do Kovalev in.

Ward: 10th Round TKO
Michael Woods, NYFights.com
Ward adapted pretty quick to the Russian’s attack. We should see “Round 13” look like the second two-thirds of fight one. Unless Sergey is fresher on fight night because he’s not over trained. But he is 34, and he is what he is. Ward is the better adaptor, and a defensive master.

Ward: Unanimous Decision
Daiske Sugiura, Yahoo! Japan
Kovalev might be spending too much energy on hating Ward, which could backfire, and Ward is calm and collected, focused on what he needs to do. That being said, I watched the first fight twice, scored it for Kovalev both times. Quite simply, Kovalev is a better and stronger fighter at this weight class, it won’t change, and the judges will get it right this time.

Kovalev: Unanimous Decision

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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FACT SHEET

WHAT: “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire”

WHO: Main Event – Flyweights (6) — CBSSN
Nico Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO), Wichita, KS
Jose Rodriguez (2-0, 2 KOs), Markesan, WI

Co-Feature — Junior Middleweights (6) — CBSSN
Noel Esquada (7-3-2, 5 KOs), Wichita, KS
Limberth Ponce (12-3, 9 KOs), Rock Island, IL

Featherweights (4) — CBSSN
Eric Vargas (2-0, 1 KO), Garden City, KS
Humberto Tellez (pro debut), Winfield, KS

Junior Welterweights (4)
Brian Clements (pro debut), Topeka, KS
Bryant Montalvo-Colon (1-9, 1 KO), Garden City, KS

Light Heavyweights (4)
Juan Hollingsworth (1-0, 1 KO), Winfield, KS
Matt Dixon (pro debut), Tulsa, OK

Middleweights (4)
Eddie Chavez (pro debut), Wichita, KS
Luis Fernando Juanez Jasso (pro debut), Garden City, KS

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.
Tickets are also being sold in Wichita at Angela’s Café (2119 W. 21st St. N, or
call Team Nico (Jeremiah @ 316. 393.3743 or Lewis @ 316.806.0144).

This is an all-ages show.

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

OFFICIAL WEIGH IN: Friday, June 16, 2017 – 6:00 p.m. CT
Mort’s Cigar Bar
923 E. 1st St. North
Wichita, Kansas

INFORMATION:

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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.

MAIN EVENT – HEAVYWEIGHTS — 3 X 5
(L) Sergei “The Paratrooper” Kharitonov (24-6-0, M-1: 3-0-0), Russia 266 ½ lbs.
vs.
(R) “The African Assassin” Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou (11-5-0, M-1: 2-1-0), USA 230 lbs.

M-1 CHALLENGE FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSIP – 5 X 5
(L)Ivan “Buki” Buchinger(31-5-0, M-1: 6-1-0), Champion, Slovakia 144 lbs.
vs.
(R) Timur Nagibin (9-2-0, M-1: 5-1-0), Challenger, Russia 144 lbs.

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Sascha Sharma (12-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Germany 143 lbs.
vs.
Muso “Iron King” Nuertiebieke (7-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), China 146 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Alexander “Iron Capture” Butenko (43-12-0, M-1: 9-2-0), Ukraine 165 lbs.
vs.
Corey “Major” Nelson (18-6-1, M-1: 0-0-0), Spain 168 lbs.

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Mikhail Korobov (10-2-1, M-1: 0-2-1), Russia, 143 lbs.
vs.
Asirkebai Jinensibieke (12-4-0, M-1: 0-0-0), China 146 lbs.

PRELIMINARY CARD

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Rene Hoppe (7-0-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Germany 204 lbs.
vs.
Carlos “Cachorrao” Eduardo (15-4-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Brazil 204 lbs.

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Arten Kazbanov (7-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 185 lbs.
vs.
Nosherwan “Savage” Khanzada (3-3-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Pakistan 184 ½ lbs.

BANTAMWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Huyixibai Huyixibai (14-4-0, M-1: 0-0-0), China 135 lbs.
vs.
Ibragim Navruzov (3-0-1, M-1: 0-0-1), Georgia 132 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Kuerbanjiang Tuluosibake (1-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0, China 169 ½ lbs.
vs.
Makim “Man Max” Melnik (3-3-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Ukraine 167 lbs.

LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
Adam Tsurov (6-5-0, M-1: 5-2-0), Russia 154 ½ lbs.
vs.
Kangkang Fu (4-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), China 153 lbs.

Go here for more weigh-in pictures:
http://www.mixfight.ru/news/2017/6/14/Resulytaty_ceremonii_vzveshvaniya_pered_M_1_Challenge_80/photos/

Weigh-in video below:

WHEN: Thursday, June 15, 2017

WHERE: Harbin, China

PROMOTER: M-1 Global

LIVE STREAM: www.m1global.tv (12.00 p.m. ET / 9:00 a.m. PT in USA)

INFORMATION:

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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!

Sydney “Ginger the Ninja” LeBlanc is stepping in on three days’ notice to face Women’s NABF Middleweight Champion, Claressa “T-Rex” Shields of Flint, Michigan, in the eight-round main event of Salita Promotions’ “Detroit Brawl” this Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Masonic Temple in Detroit.

33-year-old LeBlanc (4-1-1) from Gretna, Louisiana, represents a step up in competition from original opponent Mery Rancier, who was unable to participate due to visa issues. A six-year pro who was already in training for a fight on June 10, LeBlanc says she’s eager for the chance to upset the two-time Olympian and budding women’s superstar Shields.

“I’ve been pro boxing for nine years, since before the Olympics had a women’s division and I’ve taken a lot of time off because of a lack of available opponents,” explained LeBlanc. “These Olympians are reopening the gates for all female fighters. Everybody was on the shelf for years. This is the first time female boxing has been popular since the Ann Wolfe days, so I’m very appreciative of the opportunities they are bringing. I’ve never watched any of my opponents before a fight, but I know about Claressa Shields and I want to fight her. I’m looking at this fight as a good chance to see where I’m at, skill-wise and I’ll be ready.”

Shields vs. LeBlanc will be contested for the WBC Silver Super Middleweight Championship.

Once again sponsored by the Greektown Casino Hotel, tickets for “Detroit Brawl” are priced at VIP $200, Box Seats are $100 and $55, Seating is $40, and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster.com.

In the 10-round co-main event, undefeated Detroit cruiserweight Demetrius Banks (9-0, 4 KOs) will take on Detroit via Russia’s Alexey Zubov (14-1, 9 KOs).

In the night’s main supporting bout, undefeated welterweight pulverizer Bakhtiyar Eyubov (12-0, 10 KOs) of Aktjubinsk, Kazakhstan, will look to stay busy waiting for his next high-profile step, as he attempts to inflict his crowd-pleasing style on always-tough Cesar Soriano (27-35-1, 16 KOs) Iztacalco, Mexico, over six rounds.

In another of the chief supporting bouts, Detroit’s rising talent and “Great Lakes King” Ja’Rico O’Quinn (6-0, 5 KOs) returns to action in a six-round bantamweight brawl against David Martino (2-2, 2 KOs) of San Felipe, Mexico.

Also scheduled is an all-action six-round super welterweight battle between Antonio Urista (7-2, 2 KOs) of Lansing, Michigan, and highly decorated former amateur star Serdar Hudayberdiyev (3-0, 2 KOs) of Turkmenabat, Turkey.

Opening the night will be a six-round super lightweight tilt between Staten Island, New York via Kazakhstan’s Dimash Niyazov (10-0-3, 4 KOs) and Grand Rapids, Michigan, veteran Ramon Guevara (10-24-2, 6 KOs); as well as a four-round welterweight bout between undefeated Jacob Bonas (2-0-1, 1 KO) of Bellville, Michigan, and Clinton Township, Michigan’s Tony Brooks (1-1).

On fight night, doors open at 7:00 pm and the fights begin at 8:00 pm.

###

For more information on the “Detroit Brawl” or Salita Promotions, visit www.salitapromotions.com. Facebook and Twitter: @DetroitBrawl

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

Germany’s rising stars are out to impress on Saturday night as they face tough international opposition on the undercard of Tyron Zeuge’s WBA World Super Middleweight title defence against Paul Smith at the Rittal Arena in Wetzlar.

Cologne’s Denis Radovan (4-0, 2 KOs) meets Josip Duric (3-1, 2 KOs) over six-rounds in what promises to be his toughest career test to date. If successful, the 24-year old super middleweight says he would like the chance to avenge an amateur defeat to domestic rival Stefan Haertel, who boxes in Wetzlar against Patrick Mendy, and to land his first title shot.

“I lost against Haertel in the amateurs so I would love the chance to set the record straight” said Radovan, who is trained by former World Champion Juergen Braehmer. ‘’I’m targeting my first title at the end of 2017 or the beginning of 2018. I’ve not had many fights, but I feel like I’m ready!”

Two-time national amateur champion, Leon Bunn (4-0, 4 KOs), has looked impressive since turning over as a professional and winning all of four of his paid contests inside the distance. The fighter from Frankfurt has yet to go past the second round, but can expect tougher resistance from Hungary’s Laszlo Ivanyi (6-4, 4 KOs).

“I’m just taking it one step at a time” said Bunn ahead of his six-round light heavyweight clash. “Getting this opportunity to fight in Wetzlar, near my hometown, is huge for me!”

Bunn’s coach Ulli Wegner has expressed his excitement about the 24 year-old’s talent: “Leon will be the first to become World Champion out of my group of young boxers,” said the legendary German trainer.

Fledgling heavyweight Albon Pervizaj (2-0, 2 KOs) will be looking for a third consecutive victory against Dusan Krstin (7-7, 2 KOs). The Hamburg boxer has impressed so far with two knockout performances, but in his durable Serbian opponent, Pervizaj meets a man who has a reputation for being incredibly difficult to stop.

“My dream is to fight for a World title in Hamburg, and I’m sure one day it will happen!” said Pervizaj. “But first, I must get past Krstin, who is a tough opponent for my third fight.’’

Hometown hero Emir Ahmatovic (2-0, 1 KO) is also in action, alongside Wolfsburg middleweight Patrick Wojcicki (7-0, 4 KOs). Wojcicki, a former national amateur champion, faces a tough test against Henri Kekalainen (9-3, 4 KOs), but will need to overcome his Finnish opponent to prove he is ready to step up and compete for titles.

The WBA World Super Middleweight Championship clash between Tyron Zeuge and Paul Smith will be shown live on SAT.1 and ran.de in Germany, and Sky Sports in the UK. Limited tickets are still available via www.eventim.de or by calling +49 (0) 1806-570044.

Joe Gallagher says Paul Smith (38-6, 22 KOs) can emulate George Groves’ feel good story by claiming a World title on his third attempt when he challenges Tyron Zeuge (20-0-1, 11 KOs) for the WBA World Super Middleweight strap on Saturday, June 15 at the Rittal Arena in Wetzlar, Germany.

Groves won World honours at the fourth time of asking with a stunning sixth-round stoppage victory over the granite chinned Fedor Chudinov on May 27 at Bramall Lane in Sheffield following two epic clashes with domestic rival Carl Froch and a split decision loss to Badou Jack.

Gallagher believes Smith, who returns to Germany for a third World title challenge after back-to-back defeats to Arthur Abraham, can mimic Groves’ success by using his ring smarts and experience to dethrone the WBA ‘regular’ champion.

‘’If Paul Smith turns up like he did in the first fight with Abraham then we are leaving Germany with that belt,’’ said Gallagher. ‘’That was a good fight. It was nip and tuck. We had success and when the bell went and I thought we might have nicked it. No one gave him a chance going into that fight, but he went in there, acquitted himself well, and a lot of people thought he deserved to win.

‘’This is now his third attempt, and at this stage of his career, it’s the last roll of the dice. But I just have a good feeling about this fight. I think we could see another feel good story in British boxing, like we saw with George Groves. He won the World title on his fourth attempt and what a great story that was. Hopefully Paul can do the same and go and win that belt.

‘’He has the experience now. He’s been there before and he’s not going to be overawed with anything. It’s not like a kid going away and fighting for the World title for the first time. Paul doesn’t have to go through that this time. He knows the set up He’s well travelled and he’s used to fighting away from home.

‘’Experience is vitally important but it’s no good having experience unless you’re gong to do something with it. There’s a lot of talk sometimes about people having experience, but when you’ve got a young hungry fighter that want to make a statement and want to make a name for themselves, they can be very dangerous.

‘’Zeuge is that type of fighter. He’s a young champion who is trying to make his name for himself and trying to get to where fighters like Arthur Abraham have been in his country. So Paul has to be smart and use his ring experience. He needs to make sure that when Zeuge makes mistakes, which we know he does, he’s ready and in the right position to capitalize on this and counter.

‘’There’s no point Paul trying to fight like someone running a 100 meter race with someone ten years younger. You just can’t keep up. He’s got to use his intelligence like Bernard Hopkins did for so many years. He’s got to know when to punch and when not to punch. He’s got to be the smart old man in the fight.’’

The WBA World Super Middleweight Championship clash between Tyron Zeuge and Paul Smith will be shown live and exclusive on SAT.1 and ran.de in Germany, and Sky Sports in the UK. Limited tickets are still available online via www.eventim.de or by calling the ticket hotline on +49 (0) 1806-570044.

Bradley Skeete insists he is not “mad” after setting his sights on challenging ring legend Manny Pacquiao.

The British Welterweight champion will win a Lonsdale belt outright if he overcomes Dale Evans at London’s Copper Box Arena on July 8.

If the Londoner makes a successful third defence against mandatory challenger, Evans he plans to relinquish his domestic crown and chasing even bigger prizes.

Skeete, 29, who has been a professional boxer for almost seven year believes he is ready for a world title assault despite formidable world champions Errol Spence, Keith Thurman and WBO king Pacquiao in the talent stacked 147lb division.

Skeete said: “I’m not being big-headed, but once I get the British title out of the way, I want big fights.

“I’ve done things the right way, had the right fights and not rushed. Once I win the British title outright I’ll be ready to go.

“Perhaps the British title has held me back, but it has put me in good stead for the future.”

Skeete is ranked fourth in the WBO rankings and if the chance of a crack at the Filipino eight-weight world champion later was offered he would jump at the chance.

“People think I’m mad, but the biggest fight out there for me is Manny Pacquiao,” added Skeete who successfully defended his British crown earlier this month when he stopped another mandatory challenger Shayne Singleton in five exciting rounds.

“Manny is the oldest of the welterweight champions, coming to the end of his career, he’s tiny and his last few performances haven’t been outstanding.

“I have got some stick for saying that, but they are true facts. He is fighting Jeff Horn and I would beat Jeff.

“If Manny brings his world tour to England then I would love to be the opponent.”

Tickets for Skeete v Evans priced £40, £50, £100, £150 and £250 are available from:

www.eventim.co.uk

www.seetickets.com

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

LAS VEGAS, NV (June 13, 2017) – Unified Light Heavyweight World Champion Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (31-0, 15 KOs) and former titleholder Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-1-1, 26 KOs) opened Fight Week Powered by Monster with their Grand Arrivals at Mizuya Lounge at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on Tuesday, June 13, ahead of their ultimate rematch on 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 fighters had to say:

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

“I am looking forward to making a statement in this fight and answering any questions that may be out there and removing any doubt that may be out there, so I’m excited. You got to look at the other side of the coin, there’s a lot of people that thought I won the fight and he got what he asked for. Now after this, we don’t want to hear any excuses. We don’t want to hear about anything. We’re going to shut the door on this and, like I said, take all doubt and all questions off the table.

“In this sport, I have very little room for error. I always have the pressure on my side – no matter if I’m the challenger or the champion. But that’s OK because me and my team, we’ve learned how to deal with the pressure. We know how to deal with it. I come here looking forward to bringing back everything that I brought, including those belts. I’m excited. I can’t wait, we’re a couple days away. All of this talking is getting ready to be over. We’re getting ready for my favorite part, which is the fight. June 17. It’s about business, so I did what I had to do the first time. I’m looking to turn it up this time.

“The pressure is always on, man. It comes with my territory and it’s been like this since I’ve been a baby – 16 years old, 17 years old. You get to a point where you don’t run from the pressure, you embrace it. That’s what all the greats do. All I got to do is be myself and that will be enough. Everything else will take care of itself. At the highest level, you’re going to face adversity. It’s not if, it’s when. But the question is how do you respond? We responded like we were supposed to. I’m just looking forward to giving the fans another great fight in a few days here at the Mandalay Bay Events Center on June 17.

“A lot of people talk about the jab and the right hand. But if you look at the second part of the fight, he [Kovalev] wasn’t landing right hands and jabs. He had a good moment and he’s a really great fighter – I’m not taking anything away from him. That’s why I want to face the best, to be the best. Some people thought I won, some people thought I lost. So let’s do it again and that’s the beauty of rematches in this sport. It’s nothing to get defensive about. You just lace it up, do it again and we’ll see what happens.

“I got out of that business a long time ago – trying to prove people wrong – because it’s not an even playing field. I’ve shut guys out – 120-108; 120-107 on the scorecard – and I’ve literally heard grumblings about something. If it’s not this, it’s that. You get to a place where you mature as a man, you mature as an athlete, and you make the decision that ‘I’m going to live my life in the middle.’ I appreciate the praises, but I can’t get too high with those. And the criticisms – I can’t get too low with those. People are entitled to their opinions. Let me just keep doing me and that’s really the best place to be as an athlete.

“Tactically, I obviously want to have a better start and I’m going to have a better start. That’s really what got me in my hole – the start. I’m sure he’s made some adjustments and he’s going to come harder, but I’m ready. I’ve done everything I’m supposed to do. When you prepare the way you’re supposed to – and all the boxes are checked – it’s time to go to work. And I’m going to go to work, having fun and enjoying what I do, and put on a show in the process on June 17.”

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

“You know it’s good that he’s believing himself right now, that he’s got the key for me, but he didn’t get the key. He won two rounds against me as empty Kovalev, I remember I was like a heavy bag. Just like a fighter who came in the boxing gym like one month ago. And he’s like right now, ‘oh yeah I beat the Kovalev, but he won with empty Kovalev’.
“For this fight, I definitely had to get in shape, have different emotions and different motivations. I don’t just want to get my belts back and thank boxing fans for the support. I want to thank my haters – they motivate me to keep going. I want to get my belts and I’m here for this.
“Yeah, my fists will say it. I’ve already said enough. I want to say to Team Ward – they’ve said a lot of trash to my side, my team. He will pay for everything; I promise you.

“I appreciate him giving me the opportunity to get my belts back and on June 17 it’s going to be a different fight.
“I was empty one month before the November fight. Ward fought an empty Kovalev. This time I will not be empty – Ward will be fighting Krusher. I had pushed myself so hard in the beginning of training camp that one month out I was empty. I felt so much presser for the fight – my first fight on HBO Pay-Per-View – that I just trained too hard.”

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.

Follow the conversation using #WardKovalev. Follow us:

www.andresogward.com
@AndreWard
@AndreSogWard
/AndreSogWard

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Philadelphia, PA (June 13, 2017) – The stakes have been raised for the much anticipated showdown between former two-time world champion Kermit Cintron & Tyrone Brunson, that will take place on Saturday, June 24 at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.

The Pennsylvania State Junior Middleweight title will be on the line when those two combatants meet in a bout scheduled for 10-rounds.

The show is promoted by King’s Promotions.

“This was already a tremendous event, and now even more is on the line with the addition of the state title bout. This fight has the makings of an explosive fight, with the winner being in line for a major opportunity, said Marshall Kauffman, CEO of King’s Promotions.

That bout will headline an eleven bout card with some of the best fighters in the area being on display.

In the six-round co-feature, Anthony Burgin (10-3, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on Victor Vazquez (7-3, 3 KO’s) of Yonkers, NY in a super lightweight bout.

Also in six-round bouts:

Undefeated Steven Ortiz (6-0, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia will take on an opponent to be named in a lightweight contest.

Jerome Conquest (7-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will fight Jae Ho Kim (6-3-1, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia in a lightweight battle.

Daryl Bunting (3-1-1, 1 KO) of Asbury Park, NJ will square off with Gregory Clark (2-1-1, 1 KO) of Washington, DC in a super middleweight fight.

Marcus Bates (6-0-1, 6 KO’s) of Washington, DC will take on Roberto Pucheta (10-11-1, 6 KO’s) of Jalisco, Mexico in a bantamweight fight.

Nate Rivas (5-2, 2 KO’s) of Berlin, NJ will fight James Robinson (4-7-4, 1 KO) of York, PA in a junior middleweight affair.

In four-round bouts:

Chaise Nelson (5-1, 3 KO’s) of Dayton, OH will take on Jordan Peters (2-0-1, 2 KO’s) of Washington, DC in a super bantamweight tussle.

Nick Valliere (5-2, 2 KO’s) of Forked River, NJ will battle Randy Hedderick (2-7-1, 1 KO) of Gulfport, MS in a junior middleweight bout.

Colby Madison (4-0, 3 KO’s) of Baltimore, MD will take on an opponent to be named in heavyweight fight.

Brandon Robinson (3-1, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia boxes Rafael Valencia (3-7-1, 2 KO’s) of Medford, OR in a super middleweight bout.

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

LOS ANGELES (June 13, 2017) – Top Texas contenders and prospects from across the state will come together this Saturday night, June 17 for an action-packed evening of fights from the Ford Center at the Star in Frisco.

As part of the Golden Boy Boxing on ESPN telecast, Championship hardware will be on the line in the all-Texas, eight-round co-main event as standout Golden Boy Prospect Joshua “The Professor” Franco (10-0, 6 KOs) of San Antonio faces off against Oscar Mojica (10-2, 1 KO) of Dallas for the WBC Youth Silver Flyweight title.

In the six-round TV opener, highly decorated amateur and super lightweight prospect Vergil Ortiz, Jr. (5-0, 5 KOs) from Dallas will search for his sixth consecutive knockout victory against Ricardo Fernandez (3-5-4) of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.

Hoping to make TV, red-hot super featherweight prospect and Dallas native Javier Martinez (1-0, 1 KO) will appear in a four-round fight against Daniel Gutierrez (2-5, 2 KOs) of San Diego, CA.

Those three fights are in support of the main event in which heavy-handed super lightweights Pablo “El Demoledor” Cesar Cano (30-5-1, 21 KOs) and Fidel “The Atrisco Kid” Maldonado Jr. (23-3-1, 19 KOs) will battle over 10 rounds for the vacant WBC Fecarbox super lightweight title.

Off TV, a quarter of Texas prospects will fight to take their next step to stardom. San Antonio native Hector “El Finito” Tanajara, Jr. (9-0, 4 KOs), a super featherweight, will fight Eduardo Reyes (7-9, 5 KOs) of Reynosa, Mexico for six rounds. Austin’s own Travell “Black Magic” Mazion (11-0, 11 KOs) will look to make a dozen straight knockout victories to begin his middleweight career in a six-round fight against Fort Worth’s Even Torres (6-3, 5 KOs).

Dallas’ own Alex Rincon (1-0, 1 KO), a super welterweight, will step into a four-round fight against Austin-based Zachary Briones (1-3). Opening up the card will be two Texas fighters making their professional debuts, as Fort Worth’s David Fabela takes on San Antonio’s Zachary Lee in a four-round lightweight affair.

Cano vs. Maldonado, Jr., a 10-round super lightweight fight for the vacant WBC Fecarbox super lightweight title, is promoted by Golden Boy Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, BORN BOLD and Hennessy, never stop, never settle. The bout will take place outside on Saturday, June 17 at Tostitos Championship Plaza at The Star in Frisco, Texas on ESPN 2 and ESPN Deportes starting at 11:00 p.m. EST/10:00 p.m. CST/9:00 p.m. PST. The ESPN3 and WatchESPN App coverage will begin at 9:00 p.m. EST/8:00 p.m. CST/7:00 p.m. PST.

Tickets for Fight Night at The Star are on sale and priced at $90, $50, and $20, not including applicable service charges. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets will be available for purchase online at www.ticketmaster.com. Additionally, walk up purchases are available at the AT&T Stadium Box Office (Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. CT to 5:00 p.m. CT) or on day of the event at the Ford Center Box Office beginning at 3:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.hbo com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @hboboxing, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, and follow the conversation using #GBPonESPN

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

BROOKLYN (June 13, 2017) -Four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner and three-division world champion Mikey Garcia square off in a blockbuster matchup in the main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®, Saturday, July 29, live on SHOWTIME, 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), and will go on sale on Thursday, June 15 at 10 a.m. ET, 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 starting Friday, June 16 at noon (if tickets are still available). Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

“Broner vs. Garcia is one of the year’s biggest matchups in boxing and we anticipate an electric atmosphere at Barclays Center,” said Brett Yormark, CEO of Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. “This will be our fourth major card in 2017 as BROOKLYN BOXING continues to deliver dramatic moments, competitive fights, and many of the sport’s biggest names to fight fans.”

Broner and Garcia, two world-class fighters in their prime, meet at a critical time in their respective careers in one of the most intriguing matches in boxing. Both Broner and Garcia have had spectacular victories at Barclays Center in Brooklyn during their careers. Broner successfully defended his welterweight title against Paulie Malignaggi at Barclays Center on June 22, 2013, and Garcia, coming off a lengthy layoff, defeated Elio Rojas via fifth-round TKO at the arena on July 30, 2016.

Broner, a three-division world champion by the age of 23, and one of the youngest four-division world champions in boxing history, remains one of the most accomplished and popular athletes in the sport today. Among the top 140-pounders in the world, Broner is undefeated at or below 140 pounds with his only two losses coming against welterweight world champions Marcos Maidana and Shawn Porter. At just 27 years old, Broner (33-2, 24 KOs) still believes he is the future of the sport and looks to prove it against Garcia on Saturday, July 29.

Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, Broner has achieved more in his young career than most fighters can hope for in a lifetime. After earning world titles at 130, 135 and 147 pounds, Broner won a belt in a fourth weight division – 140 pounds – in October 2015 when he defeated Khabib Allakhverdiev via 12th round stoppage to become the second youngest four-division champion in boxing history at 26 (behind Oscar De La Hoya, 24). Broner will turn 28 years old on July 28, the day before his bout with Garcia.

Garcia, 29 years old and undefeated (36-0, 30 KOs), is a recently crowned lightweight champion and one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the sport. He will move up in weight for the second time in just three fights to challenge Broner. Garcia is a member of a renowned boxing family, and is noted for his sportsmanship and his commanding presence in the ring, honed by his brother and acclaimed trainer Robert Garcia. He has held world titles at 126, 130 and 135 pounds, but has never fought above 138.

Garcia, of Moreno Valley by way of Oxnard, Calif., returned to the ring after a two-and-half-year layoff in July 2016 without missing a beat. After defeating Rojas, Garcia became a three-division champion by beating previously undefeated lightweight world champion Dejan Zlaticanin with a vicious third-round knockout this January. Garcia has stopped 19 of his last 21 opponents including Roman “Rocky” Martinez, Juan Manuel Lopez, Orlando Salido and Bernabe Concepcion.

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.

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (June 13, 2017) – The Grand Opening of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame’s (CBHOF) new location in the Sky Casino at Mohegan Sun will be held there Monday, June 26, starting at 6 p.m. ET.

The media and public is welcome to attend the grand opening festivities. Dignitaries representing from Mohegan Sun and Mashantucket Pequot Tribes will be in attendance, as well as many CBHOF inductees, including Marlon Starling and “Irish: Micky Ward.

The original CBHOF location was in Mohegan Sun Arena but public availability for viewing was restricted to only during scheduled events held there. CBHOF inductees’ plaques and video of major fights held in Connecticut were displayed.

The new CBHOF will be open to the public during Mohegan Sun Casino operating hours. In addition to the inductees’ plaques and videos of famous fights held in the Nutmeg State, the new location will also include rotating displays of historically significant boxing memorabilia. There will also be interactive displays for public use.

“We at the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame are extremely grateful to Mohegan Sun for hosting this great facility and for contributing generously to its construction,” CBHOF president John Laudati said. “We are very excited and anxious to have the ability to present the rich history of boxing in Connecticut while simultaneously honoring those who have contributed to that history.”

Go online to www.ctboxinghof.org for additional information about the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.
ABOUT CBHOF: The Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame was founded in 2004 to honor and celebrate the careers of outstanding individuals involved in the sport of boxing. Its inaugural Induction Ceremony & Dinner was held in 2005. Connecticut’s rich boxing history could never have flourished if it weren’t for the achievements of those enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

As a non-profit organization, the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame is deeply committed to keeping the fighting spirit of Connecticut thriving through various charitable contributions.

PARK CITY, Kansas (June 13, 2017) – 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Nico Hernandez returns to the ring this Saturday night, June 17, at home in Wichita for his second professional fight, headlining “KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire” on CBS Sports Network live from Hartman Arena in Park City, Kansas.

Wichita-native Hernandez (1-0, 1 KO) will face unbeaten Mexican flyweight Jose Rodriquez (2-0, 2 KOs)in the six-round main event.

Due to ticket demand in the local market and in anticipation of a sold-out event, Hartman Arena will be extending it box office hours tomorrow, (Wednesday, June 14) and Thursday, June 15from 10 a.m. CT to 7 p.m. CT.

In addition, Hartman Arena personnel will be selling tickets at Mort’s Cigar Bar this Friday night (June 16) for the official weigh in, open to the public and starting at 6 p.m. ET. Mort’s is located at 223 E.1st Street in North Wichita.

“We are tracking very well with ticket sales for this Saturday’s upcoming ‘KO Night Boxing’ featuring Kansas’ own Nico Hernandez,” said Jennifer Ferguson, Box Office Manager, Hartman arena. “We are anticipating a very strong walk up as well Saturday, which is why we have extended the box office hours and will have extra staff on hand to meet Saturday night’s demands. Tickets are also available to purchase.”

Hartman Arena: 8151 N Hartman Arena Drive, Park City, KS 67147

Ticket Prices:
$175.00 (VIP ringside package ticket which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt Rally towel, limited edition lanyard signed by Nico, a ticket to the official after-party at Hartman arena *Only 200 VIP seats left.
$150.00 (floor seat which includes a limited-edition event T-shirt and rally towel.
$75.00, $35.00 $20.00.
Tickets may also be obtained in Wichita at Angela’s Café (2119 W. 21st St. N, or by calling Team Nico (Jeremiah) @ 316. 393.3743 or Lewis @ 316.806.0144).

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

All fights and fighters are subject to change

“We are thrilled with the response ‘KO Night Boxing: Rapid Fire’ has received from fans there,” added John Andersen President of KO Night Boxing LLC. “In our first show in this market this past March 25th in nearby Mulvane, we had more than 3,100 come out to support Nico in his pro debut, and there was a televised University of Kansas NCAA tournament game the same night. Based on the feedback I am getting, we are looking at a sold out show this Saturday night. It should make for a very special night as this event will also be airing live across the country on CBS Sports Network, where boxing fans all across North America will see how passionate people here are about supporting their hometown hero, Nico Hernandez.”

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.

THE FIGHT GAME WITH JIM LAMPLEY returns WEDNESDAY, June 14 (11:00-11:30 p.m. ET/PT), exclusively on HBO. Hosted by the four-time Sports Emmy® winner, who has hosted HBO Boxing since joining the network in 1988, the show is a provocative, engaging and informative experience that delves into intriguing storylines, newsmakers and issues that are top-of-mind in boxing.

The show is also available on HBO NOW, HBO GO, HBO On Demand and affiliate portals.
Segments on this edition of THE FIGHT GAME include: Lampley’s one-on-one with light heavyweight Sergey Kovalev, who finds himself in the unusual position of challenger; analyst Bernard Hopkins goes into the gym to breakdown the upcoming 175-pound championship rematch between Andre Ward and Kovalev; a recap of Terence Crawford’s debut in “the big room” of Madison Square Garden and a twentieth anniversary look back at the classic heavyweight battle between David Tua and Ike Ibeabuchi.
Immediately following the show’s June 14 debut, fight fans can log on to hbo.com for an exclusive overtime segment hosted by Lampley.

Craig Evans enters Saturday’s Celtic crunch fight against Dublin hard case Stephen Ormond in the hope that a sizzling showing could propel him into a world title shot.

The skilful southpaw is listed ninth in the WBO lightweight rankings and, with champion Terry Flanagan also on the Frank Warren roster, an Anglo-Welsh showdown would be simple to secure, if the 27 year old from Blackwood delivers before the BoxNation cameras at the Belfast Waterfront this weekend.

‘I dream of a crack at ‘Turbo’,’ says the Newport-born former European schoolboy medallist who has lost just once in a pro career that spans seven years and 19 fights.

‘We’ve sparred loads of good rounds and Terry knows what I’m about, knows I’d give him a competitive fight. Yes, Terry’s very strong physically but anything could happen on the night. He didn’t look his best against the last southpaw he faced (Puerto Rico’s Orlando Cruz). I’m confident I can beat anyone if I show my best on the day.

‘Anyway, Terry’s been talking about moving up so the WBO title could become vacant and a convincing win over Ormond would position me very nicely. I’m finally in sniffing distance of the major titles and big money. I can’t afford any backward steps.’

All-action Evans doesn’t underestimate the scale of the challenge that awaits him on Saturday. Foe Ormond, appropriately dubbed ‘The Rock’, was once a triple All-Ireland amateur champion and has conceded just three times in a 27 fight pro innings conducted in stiff company.

‘Ormond is probably the best I’ve faced as a pro,’ concedes 5ft 8in Craig who famously lasted the course with Vasyl Lomachenko in the 2009 World Seniors in Milan.

‘He’s very aggressive and experienced, brings a good engine. He holds a great win over Derry Mathews and, though he’s 34, Stephen’s still got something. He should bring out the best in me.

‘But his strength won’t be a huge issue. It’s true I could probably still make 130lbs for a good title fight, given proper notice but I feel nice at lightweight. I can eat good. I spar light-welters and none have proved too strong. You can always find ways around strength.

‘I know what I have to do to win. I need to be smart, find my distance, keep him off my chest. Ormond only knows one way. I’ll wind him up and he’ll throw the head in. He’s got history.

‘If I deliver on the night, I’ll beat him. A classy boxer will always beat an out and out fighter.

‘It might start a bit hostile but they’re a knowledgeable crowd and I think they’ll appreciate my style. I’m confident I can turn them around. They’ll boo me in to the ring and cheer me out!’

Dennis Ceylan (18-0-2, 8 KOs) will take on Kid Galahad (22-0, 13 KOs) for the IBF Inter-Continental Featherweight Championship on July 15 at the SSE Arena, Wembley in London, live on ITV Box Office in the UK.

Although fighting for the first time on British soil as a professional, the 28-year old Ceylan is no stranger to fighting British boxers having previously shared the ring with Isaac Lowe and Ryan Walsh in entertaining European title fights.

‘Dennis the Menace’ Ceylan, undefeated as a professional and the current EBU European Featherweight Champion, admits he has his sights set on World title honours, but must overcome his toughest career challenge to date in the undefeated Galahad from Sheffield.

“I’m so ready for this fight!” said Ceylan. “I’ve been training hard for the last few months waiting for a big opportunity like this. I took no holiday after my last fight, I was straight back in the gym… So I feel well prepared for this fight.

“I have been waiting for an opportunity like this. So when I was offered the fight, I knew straight away to take it. It’s about time I start taking some chances in my career!

“I have fought in the UK before as an amateur and I cannot wait to come back. I love the UK fans. The UK have the best boxing fans in the world and I’m looking forward to experiencing that atmosphere over there”.

“I really want to fight Lee Selby for the World title next. I know Selby well, and it would be a great fight between me and him. But first I have to get past Galahad. I just hope Galahad is ready for what I’m going to bring, because he needs to be!”

Ceylan’s promoter, Nisse Sauerland, also expressed his desire for Ceylan to compete at World title level, but admits he faces a very strong test against the British featherweight beforehand.

“This is an incredible opportunity for Dennis and one he simply had to take”, said Sauerland.

“Dennis has really impressed in his last two outings, both times against British opponents, but I know there’s even more to come from him.

“There’s no doubt that Galahad is another step up however, and will be the toughest opponent Dennis has faced so far, so he’ll have to be at his very best in this fight.

“I’m looking forward to him showing the British fans what he’s got to offer! Dennis has World title aspirations, but it’s essential that he gets the victory over Galahad first.”

When asked for his opinions on Ceylan, Galahad was respectful of the Dane’s pedigree, claiming that this is the biggest fight of his career.

“It’s simple, this is the biggest fight of my career against an unbeaten boxer who wants the same as me: glory!” said Galahad.

“I’ve got nothing but respect for Ceylan, who has beaten some top notch opponents, but I look at this as a sizeable step towards my ultimate goal, to become World champion.

“It’s a huge opportunity for me on a fantastic bill and in front of the ITV cameras. It doesn’t get any better than Eubank against Abraham, as both are top class boxers and I know there will be stacks of other fights on the card which will have supporters on the edge of their seats”.