Undisputed Welterweight World Championship – 12 Rounds

Errol Spence Jr. – 147 lbs.

Terence Crawford – 146.8 lbs.

Referee: Harvey Dock; Judges: Tim Cheatham (Nev.), David Sutherland (Okla.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator – 12 Rounds

Isaac Cruz – 134.6 lbs.

Giovanni Cabrera – 134.2 lbs.

Referee: Tom Taylor; Judges: Glenn Feldman (Conn.), Benoit Roussel (Canada), Don Trella (Conn.)

WBC Bantamweight World Championship (Vacant) – 12 Rounds

Nonito Donaire – 117.2 lbs.

Alexandro Santiago – 117.6 lbs.

Referee: Celestino Ruiz; Judges: Max DeLuca (N.Y.), Chris Migliore (Nev.), Steve Weisfeld (N.J.)

Super Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Yoenis Tellez – 155.6 lbs.

Sergio Garcia – 155.4 lbs.

Note: Contracted weight is 156

Referee: Robert Hoyle; Judges: Guido Cavalleri (Italy), Tim Cheatham (Nev.), Patricia Morse Jarman (Nev.)

SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN 

Stream Live at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT

on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube Channel and the

SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook Page

Super Middleweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Steven Nelson – 167.8 lbs.

Rowdy Legend Montgomery – 166.8 lbs.

Referee: Mark Nelson; Judges: Eric Cheek (Nev.), Max DeLuca (N.Y.), David Sutherland (Okla.)

Super Bantamweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Jose Salas Reyes – 121.6 lbs.

Aston Palicte – 123.4 lbs.

Note: Palicte missed the contracted weight of 123 pounds. The fight will proceed as scheduled.

Referee: Allen Huggins; Judges: Chris Migliore (Nev.), Dave Moretti (Nev.), Mike Ross (Fla.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy^®-winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr., and boxing historian Steve Farhood, who will serve as unofficial scorer. Four-time Emmy^® Award winner David Dinkins, Jr. will executive-produce the telecast with Bob Dunphy directing. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation^® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst.

The SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show is hosted by award-winning MORNING KOMBAT live digital talk show co-host Luke Thomas, renowned combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani and accomplished sports broadcaster Kate Abdo. 

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

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

The whose who of sports and entertainment is expected to be at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas for the Errol Spence Jr. – Terence Crawford Undisputed Welterweight Title fight in Las Vegas.

On the guest list are:

Mark Davis 

Robert Pattinson 

Cardi B 

Tracy Morgan 

DeMarcus Cousins 

Jerry Jones 

Andre Ward 

Brandon Marshall 

Shannon Sharpe 

Michael Irvin 

Deontay Wilder 

Gavin Maloof 

Damian Lillard 

Odell Beckham Jr. 

Offset 

Mario Lopez 

Tyronn Lue 

Sam Cassell 

Jamie Dornan 

Mike Tyson 

Mark Wahlberg 

Taylor Sheridan 

Paul Pierce 

Dean Spanos 

Lil Jon 

Emilia Clarke 

Micah Parsons 

Ryan Clark 

Floyd Mayweather 

Zab Judah 

Manny Pacquiao 

Gervonta Davis 

Rolando Romero 

Yordenis Ugas 

Jermall Charlo 

Jermell Charlo 

NEW YORK (July 28, 2023) – TONIGHT at The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, Split-T Management’s Dante Benjamin Jr. will look to stay undefeated when he takes on Williams Langston in a six-round bout.

The 21 year-old native of Cleveland, Benjamin already has defeated four undefeated fighters such as Herman Rendon (2-0), Kevin Johnson (2-0), Corey Thompson (4-0) and Emmanuel Austin (6-0) en-route to a record that reads 7-0 with five knockouts. Benjamin is getting right back in the ring after Mirada Zola in the opening round just four weeks ago on July 1st in Toledo, Ohio.

Langston of Kenosha, Wisconsin is 8-3 with five stoppages. The capable Langston has wins over Devin Tomko (7-1) and Caleb Hernandez (8-0). The 29 year-old Langston has won two consecutive bouts he is also coming off first round stoppage over Brandon Baue on January 14th in Milwaukee.

At Thursday’s weigh-in, The Top-Rank promoted Benjamin weighed 170.1 lbs. Langston was 171.9 lbs.

The bout can be seen live on ESPN+ at 7:30 PM ET.

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO (July 28, 2023) – With his eyes locked on legacy making, Puerto Rico’s Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo (7-0, 5 KOs) will continue his history-making journey as he makes his first WBO Mini Flyweight World Championship defense against Garen “Hellboy” Diagan (10-3, 5 KOs) of General Santos City, Philippines on Saturday, August 26. The first men’s world title fight in Puerto Rico in six years, the special island broadcast of the Golden Boy Fight Night Series on DAZN will take place at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan and is presented in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions. The DAZN broadcast begins at 8:00 p.m. ET/ 5:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN: Collazo vs. Diagan go on-sale Monday, July 31, 2023 at 10:00 am AST and are priced at $125, $100, $55, and $25 plus applicable fees. Tickets can be purchased at Ticketera.com. 

“El Pupilo” solidified his place at the top of the list of active Puerto Rican boxers with a meteoric rise in the sport through a spectacular knockout of former titleholder Melvin “Gringo” Jerusalem this past May 27 on the undercard of Rocha vs. Young. Displaying his adaptability and surgical use of a heavy left hand punch that hurt the former champion, Collazo crushed a number of records in his victorious championship fight, including shredding the record for the fastest to become a world champion from Puerto Rico. 

“I feel super honored to return to fight where I made my pro-debut, and make my first defense there,” said World Champion Oscar Collazo. “Great champions such as Wilfredo Gómez, Wilfredo Benitez, Tito Trinidad and Miguel Cotto have fought there, and this is another historic moment that marks my career once again. I am super grateful to Miguel Cotto Promotions, Golden Boy and DAZN for believing in me and allowing me to make my first defense here, in front of my people of Puerto Rico. I am very excited and grateful.”

“Like all Filipinos, my opponent comes to fight. He is a strong boxer who has come with two great victories. He is tall and he uses his reach well. We have everything planned and we know the hands that I have can attack and make damage. I just want to continue thanking my fans for the support they have given me, and I want them to support me on August 26 to continue making history together with all my beautiful people from the Island,” concluded Collazo.

With a moniker of “Hellboy,” Diagan is a tough southpaw who created chaos in South Africa when he knocked out local hero Simpiwe Konkco and in Vietnam when he outscored world-ranked Huu Toan Le with a split decision victory. Diagan is not a stranger to being the underdog in a foreign land and securing an upset victory.

“I am amped about my opponent, Collazo is a world champion. I will bring my A-game,” said challenger Garen Diagan. “I’ll do my level-best to prove to all that I can hang with the best of them too. My opponent is a tough cookie and well-rounded fighter. There is something about him that sets him apart from the others – he packs a punch and is on a winning spree. He’s got some serious muscle. My coach and I have a plan, we have been putting in the hours in the gym, and I’ll give it everything I’ve got to show everyone that he’s up against a true Filipino.” 

More information on the complete undercard will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Media interested in a credential for the fight can email Giancarlo Oquendo of Miguel Cotto Promotions at goquendo@cottopromotions.com. 

###

Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in co-promotion with Miguel Cotto Promotions. The event will be available worldwide to all subscribers on DAZN, both live and on demand.

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

FOUR CHAMPIONSHIP BELTS will be on the line tomorrow in Telford when Liam Davies takes on Jason Cunningham in the headliner at the Telford International Centre, live on TNT Sports. 

Photos from today’s weigh-in can be downloaded here.
Photos are free to use, please credit Queensberry where possible.

The EBU European, British, WBC & WBO International Super Bantamweight Championships 12 x 3 Minute Rounds
Liam Davies 121lbs 
Jason Cunningham 121lbs

The WBO European Welterweight Championship 10 x 3 Minute Rounds
Eithan James 146lbs
James Moorcroft 146lbs

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Heavyweight Contest
Moses Itauma 241lbs
Kevin Nicolas Espindola 296lbs

8 x 3 Minute Rounds International Welterweight Contest
Owen Cooper 149lbs 
Robin Zamora 146lbs

6 x 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Lightweight Contest 
Macauley Owen 131lbs
Jayro Duran 132lbs 

6 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest
Ben Fail 157lbs
Serge Ambono 155lbs

4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Welterweight Contest
Jim Smith 154lbs
Lukasz Barabasz 154lbs

6 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest
Amaar Akbar 145
Georgi Velichkov 144

4 X 3 Minute Rounds Heavyweight Contest
Boma Brown- To weigh in Tomorrow
Jake Darnell- To weigh in Tomorrow

Philadelphia, PA (July 28, 2023)-TONIGHT at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, RDR Promotions lightweight contender Nahir Albright looks for a big win when he takes on former U.S. Olympian Carlos Balderos in an eight-round bout.

Albright of Sicklerville, New Jersey has a record of 15-2 with seven knockouts. The 27 year-old has wins over Danny Murray (1-0), Glenford Nickey (4-1-1), Roy Collins (6-1), Dante Cox (6-1), former world title challenger Cosme Rivera, Jeremy Hill (15-1) and his last bout when he won an eight-round unanimous decision over Estivan Falcao (11-0) on September 23, 2022 in Essington, PA.

Balderas of Santa Maria, California, was a 2016 Olympian and now has a pro record of 14-1 with 12 knockouts. The 26 year-old has defeated Rene Tellez Giron (13-1), Fidel Cerventes (9-1-1), Julio Cortes (15-3), Rubern Cervea (13-2) and an eighth round stoppage over Esteban Sanchez (18-2) on November 12, 2022 at The Palms in Las Vegas.

The bout can be seen live on ESPN+ at 7:30 PM ET.

Albright weighed 134.1 lbs. Balderas weighed 135.9 lbs.

LAS VEGAS – July 27, 2023 – Undefeated boxing superstars Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford faced off Thursday at the final press conference before they meet to crown the first undisputed welterweight champion of the four-belt era this Saturday, July 29 headlining a SHOWTIME PPV from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

To kick off the main event portion of the press conference, legendary heavyweight champion Mike Tyson conducted a coin toss to determine which fighter would walk to the ring last on Saturday night. Crawford won the toss and can now decide whether he would like to walk to the ring last, or be introduced last once in the ring.

The press conference also saw pay-per-view undercard fighters face off before their respective matchups on the telecast beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The pay-per-view will see hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and undefeated contender Giovanni Cabrera battle in a WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event, future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire take on Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship, plus top prospect Yoenis Tellez duels Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in the telecast opener.

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

Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday from T-Mobile Arena:

ERROL SPENCE JR.

“I’m gonna win because I’m the better fighter. I’m better physically and mentally. I’m more durable. I’m gonna break him down and break his will.

“It would mean a lot to be undisputed. It would mean that I’m one of the greatest welterweights to ever lace up a pair of gloves.

“He’s gonna find out that my skills are superior. He’s talented, but when we talk about what my coach teaches, he’s gonna see that I have great offense, defense and stamina. It’s more than just talent.

“This is gonna be legendary. Make sure you tune-in. This is gonna be an old school fight. It’s gonna be iconic. You’re gonna want to buy this fight. You’re getting your money’s worth.

“People are gonna talk about this fight 30 or 40 years from now when you talk about legendary fights. They’re gonna talk about this fight the same way they talked about the ‘Four Kings’ era. There’s gonna be an amateur 20 years from now watching our fight on YouTube and saying man, I want to be in a fight like that.

“Everyone knows it’s ‘Strap Season’. I want to thank my parents, because they blessed me with the resiliency to get through a lot of stuff in life. Make sure you order the fight on SHOWTIME PPV. I guarantee you I’m gonna put on a great show. Bring your seasoning on Saturday night, because we’re gonna have a crawfish boil. Bring that hot sauce too.

“I guarantee you it’s gonna be nothing but fireworks from start to finish.”

TERENCE CRAWFORD

“I don’t go in there looking for the knockout, I go in there looking for the win. If he gets out of line he’s gonna be the next one going down.

“Everyone knows what time it is. I’m ready and he’s ready. We’re gonna have a fish fry come Saturday.

“He’s gonna find out the same thing that everyone else finds out. He’s gonna say that on TV I look one way. In the ring he’s gonna be seeing three of me.

“They say he’s the big bad wolf, but come fight night we’re gonna find out if he’s all that he says he is. He’s gonna have to show me.

“Everything about me is better than Errol. When you look at what I do in the ring, it’s better than what he does. Come fight night, I’m going to prove every doubter wrong. I’m going to show that I’m the best fighter in the world.

“This is the Terence Crawford era. When you look at my body of work in each weight class, you can’t deny that. This is my era. I’ve never had a close fight. I’ve never had a fight where people thought I lost. I’ve looked spectacular every time.

“This is what we do every time we come out. That talking can turn bad real quick. Support your fighter, and let’s come together and make this event a success.”

DERRICK JAMES, Spence’s Trainer

“There’s no more talking. Nothing else to say. My chant is, it’s time to eat. It’s time to make it happen. We’re tired of talking. It’s time to go. Show time.

“It takes a lot of fortitude, discipline and focus to win fights like this. Errol has that. He knows his time is on Saturday. We made this happen. We took every belt and beat champions to get here.”

BRIAN “BO MAC” MCINTYRE, Crawford’s Trainer

“We’re here now y’all. There’s nothing else to say. He can’t hide anymore. It’s time to take care of business. It’s time to go to work.

“We’re gonna find out who the best man is. I respect them for what they’ve done. We’ve been here before. You’re trying to get here. I can tell you how it is to be undisputed. Sit back and watch.”

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m going to come out on Saturday and prove my worth. I’m going to show why I deserve a rematch with Gervonta Davis.

“I’m coming here to do my job and send a clear message. I’m not overrated, I’m worth every penny. I’m here to show everyone what I can do inside the ring.

“Let’s see who eats whose punches and who can withstand the most. I am going to eat Cabrera up.

“I’m a real Mexican fighter and I’m gonna show everyone what I can do once again on Saturday night.”

GIOVANNI CABRERA

“I’ve beaten more unbeaten fighters than most in boxing history. If you look at Cruz’s first 20 fights, most of those opponents were not good at all. I believe that I’ve earned my spot here and that I’m going to take the win.

“I’m 21-0 for a reason. Everyone I know has tried to take my head off and I’ve picked every single one of them apart.

“I want to represent Chicago and my Mexican blood. I’m here to give it my all, put my soul on the line and make sure I don’t regret anything.

“I hope he’s hungry; he’s going to eat a lot of punches. I am coming here to eat ‘Pitbull’ tacos.”

NONITO DONAIRE

“I gambled in my last fight, and sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Going into this fight, I just have to show everyone that I’ve still got it. I’m doing it for me now and to show what I’m capable of. I love the sport and I’m grateful that I’m getting the opportunity.

“The power at this age is so much more potent. I put so much more into it. Not just emotion and experience, but I put every essence of a man into this.

“I have to give big respect to my opponent, he’s never been down. But I’m the type of guy where if I see the opportunity, I’ll take it. There’s nothing more satisfying than a knockout.

“I don’t really look into the extra stuff. I have a bigger vision ahead of me. I want to become undisputed. That’s the only thing that I haven’t done in boxing. I’ve gotten lots of accolades, but never been undisputed. That’s my biggest purpose and that’s why I’m still fighting.

ALEXANDRO SANTIAGO

“In 2018 when I fought for the title, I was young. That fight is in the past. Through hard work, discipline and having a great team, I was able to grow. I’m way more mature now. I came here to become a world champion.

“All respect to Nonito. But on Saturday night people all over the world are going to get to know me and see what I’m capable of. I’m gonna put on a show for everyone watching.

“I have a fire inside of me. I want to make this dream come true. It’s not just about the objective, it’s about the journey. I’ve enjoyed how I’ve gotten here. My son was born two months ago, so this goes out to him and my family. It makes me want this even more.”

YOENIS TELLEZ

“This is just about taking advantage of a great opportunity given to me. We put experience to the side, because I just have to do my job and focus on winning.

“I promise that you’re going to see another Cuban fighter with championship potential. You’re going to see someone who’s skill is rising fast. The fans are going to see something they will definitely enjoy.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“I would have done the exact same thing he did. I’m not in a position to underestimate anyone. I have to win this fight to get what I want. What he does is his business.

“I’m going to show you what I can do. I don’t have to promise anything. I’ve trained so hard and you’ve seen that I’m the kind of fighter who leaves it all on the line. I’m going to give the fans the show they deserve and let the chips fall where they may.”

TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions

“I’ve been in this business over 35 years and I haven’t been this pumped up in a long time for a fight. This is spectacular and as good of a matchup as you can get.

“We have the two best fighters in the world, both unbeaten world champions and just so talented. It’s gonna be an all-out war from start to finish.

“When you look at the skills of each fighter, everything is so equal. Everything is so close between them. It’s gonna come down to who wants it more. It’s about mental toughness and who can dig down the deepest. There will be a new undisputed pound-for-pound champion on Saturday night.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, President, SHOWTIME Sports

“We are in the business of helping to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Saturday night is exactly that. It’s not a boxing match or a television show. Calling it those things doesn’t do it justice. A fight of this magnitude with these stakes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

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

   •  Seniesa Estrada 104.4 lbs vs. Leonela Yudica 103.7 lbs
(Estrada’s WBC & WBA Minimumweight World Titles— 10 Rounds)

   •   Andres Cortes 130 lbs vs. Xavier Martinez 129.7 lbs
(Junior Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

•    Karlos Balderas 135.9 lbs vs. Nahir Albright 134.1 lbs 
 (Lightweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Rohan Polanco 142.9 lbs vs. Cesar Francis 141.8 lbs 
 (Junior Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Abraham Nova 130.8 lbs vs. Jonathan Romero 130.8 lbs 
 (Junior Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

•    Subaru Murata 121.5 lbs vs. Juan Centeno 123.3 lbs 
 (Junior Featherweight — 6 Rounds)

•    Dante Benjamin Jr. 170.1 lbs vs. William Langston 171.9 lbs 
 (Light Heavyweight — 6 Rounds)

•    Charlie Sheehy 134.5 lbs vs. Kaylyn Alfred 133.4 lbs 
 (Lightweight — 6 Rounds)

SWING BOUT

•    Jaylan Phillips 139.5 lbs vs. E’mond Driver 142 lbs 
 (Junior Welterweight — 4 Rounds)
 

Orlando, FL (July 27, 2023) – Jeovanny Estela will take his next step towards welterweight contention Friday evening when he faces fellow unbeaten prospect Chris Thompson in an eight-round bout at the Caribe Royale in his hometown of Orlando.

For the local favorite Estela (11-0, 3 knockouts), Friday’s fight will be his ninth overall at the venue since he turned professional at the end of 2020. The 23-year-old will be taking a step-up in competition against Kansas City native Thompson (9-0, 6 KOs).

“This is a very important fight, it’s my biggest test,” said Estela, who volunteers at local food banks when he is not training. “That’s how I look at every fight, but this is at a higher level. We’re both unbeaten so there’s a lot to prove, especially for me and my fans since I’m from Orlando.”

Estela-Thompson serves as the co-main event of Boxlab Promotions’ “Night of Champions IV.” The show will be broadcast as a triple header on CBS Sports Network and will be shown on a one-hour tape delay, beginning at 10 p.m. ET.

The ten-round main event features Cuban prospect Idalberto Umara (10-1, 7 KO’s) facing off with William Encarnacion (20-5, 16 KO’s) for the WBA Fedelatin lightweight title.

The televised portion of the card opens with an eight round heavyweight bout pitting highly-touted Henrich Ruiz Cordoba (3-0, 3 KOs) against Dionardo Minor (6-1-2, 2 KOs).

The undercard features exciting prospects and rising stars Junior Younan, Roberto Rivera Gomez, Angel Chavez, Julio Rosa, Jonathan Cortes, Giovanni Louis, Jamar Pemberton, Gustavo Trujillo, and Kevin Nunez.

Tickets for the event, which begin at $40 for general admission can be purchased through Ticketmaster https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/22005EDB9900BAEC. 

FOUR CHAMPIONSHIP BELTS will be on the line on Saturday in Telford when Liam Davies takes on Jason Cunningham in the headliner at the Telford International Centre, live on TNT Sports. Today, the lead characters from the card – Davies, Cunningham, Moses Itauma, Eithan James and James Moorcroft – met the media and spoke the final words before the big fight night.

Photos from today’s press conference can be downloaded here.
Photos are free to use, please credit Queensberry where possible.

Below is a selection of key quotes from the event.

Liam Davies
I am feeling a million dollars, everything has gone good, I feel like all the fights I’ve taken in my career so far have built me into this position. He wants to show he is No.1 super bantamweight, but I am No.1 and on Saturday night you are gonna see why because I’m going to do a number on him. He messaged me saying he was going to smash my head in and since I’ve seen him everything’s changed. In a few days we will get to see whose head gets smashed in. I am going to take you out inside 12 rounds, you’re old, you’re weak and slow, man. You’re too small, you’re thin. Trust me, I know what is going to happen. I stand by everything I’ve said, it’s personal and I am going to settle it on Saturday.

Jason Cunningham
I have heard it all before about being written off and I have been in these four-belt fights before. Telford has become my second home since I have been with Queensberry but, obviously, I expect it to be a bit more hostile on Saturday night. I am very much looking forward to it, I’m excited to be back out again on the big stage, with it being TNT’s first show with Queensberry. So it is all good, main event, I am looking forward to a great fight to show why I am the No.1 super bantamweight with Queensberry. It’s kind of been the Liam show and even this week I’ve just let him do what he does and enjoy building it up. It goes straight over my head, he can’t get under my skin. It is only a matter of days away, the talking is done and he can keep going on as much as he wants. I cannot wait for Saturday night. It has proper put the fire in my belly, Telford is in for a great fight.

Moses Itauma
I’d say I was happy to get the rounds in last time. Obviously in my first two fights I was boxing doughnuts so it was good to get those rounds under my belt and I am looking to put on another performance on Saturday night. I don’t really take notice of other fights, I hope Matty Harris gets back on his feet and maybe we can get something sorted. Saturday night is my main focus and whatever happens after that is after that. It has obviously been tough sparring with Dubois getting ready for Usyk. I feel like it is my time and I will let Dubois handle his business. This is my fight now. I’d never rule out Dubois, he’s got that puncher’s chance, but it is a big ask. Against Espindola, these are the step-ups I’ve been asking for so I’m happy I’ve got them and I can show my skill set on Saturday night. It will get me in the talk with the other British heavyweights.

Eithan James
We have had a good camp, have been abroad and sparred some good people. Obviously we have had some setbacks but I am finally getting this title shot now. I have been asking for step-ups all the way along, there have been a couple of pull-outs and that is not what we want. He is a good lad with good credits on his card and hopefully I get one on my card on Saturday night. This is the pro game and it is completely different, but having the experience from going abroad against different styles plays into my hands, with being able to adapt. But on Saturday night he will be a different style again so I will have to do what I do best and adapt to win. It is never my plan to go in there and stop people. I can do the rounds, my legs can do the rounds and now I feel a lot stronger at welterweight. I ask my sparring partners so I know I punch hard enough to be in there for 10 rounds. I win by being me.

James Moorcroft
It is a massive fight and I have been in some big fights, but nothing compares to this in England on a massive show on TNT Sports. I am ready for a big fight and I’m ready to go. I’m feeling great, I’ve been with Anthony (Crolla) now for about three years and I feel like it is all just coming together. Anthony is going to let me off the reins, I hope, on Saturday night and we are in for a good night of boxing. I’m more than ready for this now. It feels amazing, I am in with a quality guy in Eithan James, I have done my homework and looked at him and I cannot congratulate him enough on his phenomenal amateur career. But amateur and professional boxing are two worlds apart at times and I am ready to put it all on the line and give everything on Saturday night. It is time to bust the bookies!

Ahead of their upcoming bouts in August and September, ESPN will air: Pressure: Xander Zayas & Bruce Carrington, a 30-minute retrospect of the most recent outings for two of Top Rank’s brightest rising blue-chip prospects. The show features a behind-the-scenes look at the June 10^th Taylor-Lopez undercard as Puerto Rican sensation Xander Zayas (16-0, 10 KO) remained undefeated in New York City and claimed the honorary “Miguel Cotto Award” in his first fight on Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend. Also in action that night was Brooklyn phenom Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (8-0, 5 KO), and fight fans will have the opportunity to get a candid look at his spectacular knockout win on home turf.

Next up for the two future superstars:

• Carrington returns to action on Saturday, 8/26 in Tulsa, OK as the featured preliminary bout on ESPN+ ahead of the Top Rank on ESPN main event between American heavyweight hero “The Real Big Baby” Jared Anderson (15-0, 14 KO) and Ukrainian contender Andriy Rudenko (35-6, 21 KO).
• Zayas makes his anticipated return on Saturday, 9/15 in Corpus Christi, TX as the co-main event on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ ahead of the IBF Featherweight world title main event between Luis Alberto Lopez (28-2, 16 KO) and Joet Gonzalez (26-3, 15 KO).

In addition to the air times below, Pressure: Xander Zayas & Bruce Carrington will also be available for replay on-demand in the ESPN App and on ESPN.com and ESPN+.

Pressure: Xander Zayas & Bruce Carrington

ESPN+, ESPN App Boxing Content: Live and Upcoming, On Demand, Studio Shows, Archives

• Top Rank: Real Time Go all-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night
• Boxing
• Top Rank
• State of Boxing

• Max on Boxing Max Kellerman hosts a 30-minute series weighing in on key boxing news and providing insights on the sport’s top fighters and upcoming events
• Who Do U Fight 4? Get to know the next generation of Top Rank stars and learn what drives them

Follow @ESPNRingside on social media: Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok

About ESPN 

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

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – July 27, 2023 – BOXXER, the next generation boxing promotion, are delighted to announce four exciting additions to the undercard for the highly-anticipated rematch between Liam Smith and Chris Eubank Jr on Saturday, September 2^nd at the AO Arena, Manchester,live and exclusive on Sky Sports Box Office.  

Bitter middleweight rivals Smith and Eubank Jr will meet in the middle of the ring for a second time following their epic January encounter, which saw ‘Beefy’ claim a stunning fourth-round stoppage victory. 

Hostilities have escalated since their first fight and are set to reach boiling point when they return to the AO Arena on September 2^nd. 

Eubank Jr is out for revenge, believing Smith used an elbow in the combination that sent him to the canvas, while Smith is eager to secure another decisive win to put an end to their rivalry and Eubank Jr’s career once and for all.

Demand for the rematch is huge, with over 70% of tickets snapped up during a record-breaking pre-sale, and is set to become even bigger following the announcement of four exciting additions to the undercard.

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Bronze Medallist Frazer Clarke returns to action having banked 10 invaluable rounds against former world title challenger Mariuz Wach at York Hall in June and is set to lock horns with ‘The White Rhino’ Dave Allen. 

Now 7-0, Burton’s Clarke will be aiming to continue his transition from highly-regarded amateur to successful pro as he takes on Allen in a tantilising ten round domestic heavyweight dust up. 

Allen, who is undefeated in his last four contests, has brought in the expertise of sought after coaches Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis to work alongside Roger Sampson to prepare him for this fight. 

Having previously shared the ring with the likes of David Price, Tony Yoka, Luis Ortiz and Dillian Whyte, and secured high-profile wins over Lucas Browne and Nick Webb, the Doncaster fan favourite will be looking to claim another sizable scalp in front of a raucous Manchester crowd.

‘The Albanian King’ Florian Marku will take on Ireland’s Dylan Moran in a ten round welterweight contest. 

Marku has recovered from the hand injury he took into his memorable homecoming fight against Miguel Parra at Air Albania Stadium last year and will want to continue to showcase improvements made under coach Grant Smith.

Like Marku, Moran is fresh from his own homecoming fight having secured a stoppage win against Mauro Maximiliano Godoy at the WIT Arena in Waterford in April. The 28-year-old southpaw now has the opportunity to prove if he is ‘The Real Deal’, as his ring moniker suggests, and to boost his profile against his popular opponent.

2020 Olympic Silver Medallist Ben Whittaker continues to dazzle and delight with his stylish approach to the sweet science. Trained by SugarHill Steward, the Wolverhampton wonderkid secured his fourth professional win with the eighth-round stoppage of Vladimir Belujsky on the undercard of Savannah Marshall’s undisputed clash against Franchón Crews-Dezur in Manchester. Whittaker will make a swift return to the AO Arena on September 2nd and have the chance to showcase his star power on the big stage once again. 

In another mouth-watering domestic clash, Oldham’s Mark Heffron will defend his British and Commonwealth Super Middleweight titles against Jack Cullen.

Heffron, who trains out of Manchester’s Champs Camp gym under the guidance of Joe Gallagher, was forced to pull out of a scheduled defence of his British title against Zak Chelli on July 2 due to injury. Now fully fit, the 31-year-old will defend his belts against ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’, the former WBO and IBF International Champion, who is looking to bounce back from a stoppage loss to dangerous Californian Diego Pacheco. 

Ben Shalom, BOXXER’s promoter and CEO, said “We’re delighted to announce the first four additions to what promises to be an action-packed undercard. The response to Smith-Eubank II has been incredible. Manchester is going to be rocking on September 2nd. We look forward to releasing more undercard announcements soon.” 

SMITH vs EUBANK II: REPEAT OR REVENGE? is presented in association with official partners bet365, WOW HYDRATE, Everlast and Village Hotels. 

Tickets for the blockbuster clash at the AO Arena in Manchester are available via Boxxer.com

WORCESTER, Mass. (July 27, 2023) – As surreal as it must be for Worcester native Kendrick “Peppa” Ball, Jr. (20-1-3, 12 KOs), he will headline the first boxing event hosted at Polar Park – where he helped build the ballpark — on the August 4th (Aug. 5 rain date) “Punch-Out at Polar Park” Pro-Am card, presented by Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP) in conjunction with Kenrick Ball’s Camp Get Right Boxing, in in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Back in 2020, Ball’s first union job was as a construction worker building Polar Park, the home of the Boston Red Sox Triple-A affiliate Worcester Red Sox (WooSox), voted as the best minor league baseball park in America. A share of the proceeds will be donated to local charities.

“When I first started working at Polar Park,” Ball, Jr. explained, “it was just a dirt field. I saw the blueprint and it looked cool, but I couldn’t imagine it would look like it does today. It’s so weird being there now. It brings back memories and I picture myself working there in different spots. Two years later, my dad (head trainer Kendrick Ball, Sr.) is promoting the first boxing show there with Chuck (Shearns). I’ve thrown out the (ceremonial) first pitch three times at Polar Park and now I’m headlining the first boxing show there. Life is weird sometimes.

“Some people had been talking about boxing there back then and I wanted to headline. I think I deserve it as the biggest ticket seller in Worcester. It really hasn’t hit me yet that I’m headlining the first outdoor show in Worcester boxing history and the first boxing ever at Polar Park. But my main focus has been on my opponent. I know it’s big. I hope people understand the magnitude of this historic boxing event.”

Ball takes on Oscar “Moustro” Riojas (28-16-3, 16 KOs), of Mexico, in the eight-round main event. Riojas has become a gatekeeper, of sorts, having fought the likes of Carlos Gongora, Joseph Ward, Diego Pacheco, Vladimir Shiskin, and Vyacheslav Shabranskyy, among the more notables.

“I know my opponent is a lefty and very tough,” Ball added. “Mexican fighters are known for their toughness. I’ve fought two lefties in the second half of my career. It’s going to be a real challenge for me.

“I’m hoping this fight will lead to a big payday. I think I deserve it; I have 20 wins as a pro. I haven’t had that big payday yet. This is what I love and why I’m chasing the big money. But I’m really only focused right now on winning and giving a good performance.”

The co-featured event has instant classic written all over it as “Don’t Play” Sean Bey (7-0, 7 KOs), fighting out of Stoughton (MA) by way of Providence, throws-down with Pittsfield (MA) heavyweight Quintin Sumpter (6-1, 4 KOs) in a potentially explosive eight-round bout. Bey is a cancer survivor who was a celebrated amateur: four-time New England Golden Gloves Champion, Northeast PAL Regional titlist, and Ringside World silver medalist. Sumpter was a football player who started in boxing relatively late, albeit quickly developing into a New England Golden Gloves (Novice) Champion.

Undefeated Brockton super featherweight “King” Kevin Walsh (9-0, 4 KOs) puts his untarnished pro record on the line against local favorite, Philp Davis (3-5-2, 0 KOs), in a six-rounder that promises fireworks.

Four-time National Golden Gloves Champion Melanie “Pitbull” Costa (1-0, 1 KO), a police officer in Norton (MA), meets Brazilian super bantamweight Kalinda Walkiria De Carvalho Faria (1-0) in a four-round match.

Puerto Rican welterweight Josniel “TG” Castro (9-1, 7 KOs), fighting out of Boca Raton (FL but with a strong New England fan-base, meets his Argentinian opponent, Jorge “Tomatito” Martin Garcia (13-11-1, 3 KOs), in a six-round bout.

Also fighting on the undercard, each in four-round fights, are pro-debuting Douglas (MA) welterweight Robert Degaetano vs. Michael “Titan” Taylor (1-5), Worcester police officer Neal Sullivan (0-0-1) vs. Brazilian welterweight Michael Medeiros (0-4), pro-debuting Dorchester (MA) lightweight Tevin “The Hitman” Regis vs. Joshua Zimmerman (0-10), and Johnson (RI) super middleweight James Maner (3-0, 2 KOs) vs. Framingham’s Saul “The Spider” Almeida (1-17-4, 1 KO).

The inaugural Carlos Garcia Tournament, showcasing amateur boxers from throughout New England, will precede the start of the pro card.

“Punch-Out at Polar Park” will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com

Doors open at 5 p.m. ET with the first amateur match starting then (6 p.m. ET), the pro card starts at 7 p.m. ET.

Tickets are priced at $205.00 (Field VIP – rows 1-4, all padded seats), $155.00 (VIP), $75.00 (Home Plate Reserved – rows 5 and beyond, not padded seats) and $45.00 (Reserved), and available for purchase at Polar Park’s box office (508.500.8888), and online at www.polarpark.com/boxing.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please email all inquiries for details to ShearnsBoxingPromotions@gmail.com.

INFORMATION:

Website: polarpark.com. cgrboxing.com

Facebook: /ShearnsBoxingPromotions, /CampGetRightBoxing, /PolarParkWorcester

Twitter: @ShearnsBoxing, @PolarPark

Instagram: @ShearnsBoxingPromotions, @cgrboxing, @PolarParkWorcester

LAS VEGAS – July 26, 2023 – Fighters competing on the Errol Spence Jr. vs Terence Crawford SHOWTIME PPV undercard showed off their skills at an open to the public media workout on Wednesday before they step into the ring this Saturday, July 29 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The workout featured hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz and undefeated contender Giovanni Cabrera, who battle in a WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event, future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire and Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago, who meet for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship, plus top prospect Yoenis Tellez and Spanish contender Sergio Garcia, who duel in the telecast opener at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

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

The event also saw special appearances by the main event combatants Spence and Crawford, who addressed the fans in attendance ahead of their long-awaited clash Saturday night.

“It’s strap season, and we’re going to crawfish boil another guy on Saturday night,” said Spence. “We’re going to cook him up real good, so everyone make sure you bring your cajun seasoning… It’s going to be one for the history books. This is going to be one you’ll be talking about for a very long time.” 

“It’s another day in the office. I’m prepared for everything that’s going to come with securing a victory Saturday,” said Crawford. “I’ve been here before, and now it’s just a waiting game…You can expect fireworks and the best Terence Crawford that you guys have seen.”

Here is what the undercard fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m just going to have to be smart, and not get into his game. I need to dictate everything.

“The big fights and the big moments I’ve had definitely helped me mature, and the quality of opponents I’ve had have made me better ever since I fought them.”

GIOVANNI CABRERA

“His [Isaac Cruz] name is Pitbull. I thought he was going to bite me [at the fighter arrivals]. Good thing he didn’t.

“The bigger the anger of the beast, the harder he is going to fall on my sword. I am a bull fighter. I am a matador. Every fighter I have faced has tried to take my head off and I’ve picked them apart.”

NONITO DONAIRE

“Everybody showed up to dance around, but I’m going to show all of these guys what this old man can do.

“I’m going to keep going. I’m going to keep fighting, and I’m going to get that undisputed bantamweight title. That’s the only thing I have not done. I’ve done everything else – Fighter of the Year, Knockout of the Year, multiple divisions unified.”

ALEXANDRO SANTIAGO

“I fully respect a legend like Donaire outside the ring no matter what, but inside the ring, my hunger to win is unparalleled and I don’t care who is in front of me.

“It is an advantage that I am young, but Donaire’s a very dangerous fighter regardless of his age. I’m not about to underestimate him because he punches really hard and can be very dangerous if you let him.” 

YOENIS TELLEZ

“I’m good enough, I’m skilled enough and I’m hungry enough to take on something like this. When you have an opportunity to fight on a huge card like this one, it’s impossible to turn it down.

“There are so many things we want to do Saturday night. We’re going to put on a show, and you’re going to see me show out.” 

SERGIO GARCIA

“I’m so honored to be a part of this with all of you. All I want to do is put on a great show, because that’s what you all deserve.

“It doesn’t surprise me one bit that Tellez took this fight. Who wouldn’t take a fight like this on a card like this regardless of how many fights you’ve had beforehand? Experience will just be one factor of many in this fight.”

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 26, 2023) – Undefeated rising star, lightweight Demler “The War Machine” Zamora (11-0, 9 KOs), is ready to take his career to the next level with a signature win against Nikolai Buzolin (9-4-1, 5 KOs). The 8-round bout takes place this Saturday, July 29 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford card.

Zamora, fighting in his hometown of Las Vegas, had an impressive win in his last fight defeating Jesus Abel Ibrarra (15-1, 7 KOs), by way of a third-round knockout, giving him his first loss. After the great performance, Zamora is now fighting in his first 8-round bout as a professional.

“It feels good to be fighting at home on the biggest fight of the year,” said an enthused Zamora. “This is the type of card and atmosphere that all fighters dream about when it comes to fighting on the big stage. I want to be the hidden gem of the event where everyone remembers my name. I have a great team behind me, and I’m ready to shine.”

Zamora turned pro in 2019 and is now looking to make an impression in the super featherweight division. Zamora believes a win here will set him up for a big fall in 2023.

“I have complete faith in my team and the direction my career is going,” continued Zamora. “I simply listen to my coaches and focus on what needs to be done. This will be my first 8-round bout and I’m looking forward to a bright future at 130 pounds. With a good win here, I believe I could have a big fall to finish off the year. I want to be seen as one of the best prospects in the sport of boxing and my goal is to enter that conversation by the end of this year.”

ANTHONY YARDE HITS the comeback trail towards his next world title challenge on 23 September with an all-British clash against Ricky Summers at the OVO Arena, Wembley on the big Zhilei Zhang-Joe Joyce rematch card, live on TNT Sports.

Tickets to see the heavyweight clash between Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, are on sale now available from AXS.com and ticketmaster.co.uk.

Yarde, the self-styled Beast from the East, won the admiration of the boxing public back in January when he gave unified world light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev his toughest fight to date before being retired by his own corner in the eighth round in front of a packed and enthralled crowd at the same Wembley venue.

For Yarde (23-3, 22 KOs) it represented a second world title challenge after previously going up against the formidable Sergey Kovalev in the then champion’s home town back in 2019.

Summers (19-3-1, 6), from Staffordshire, was most recently in big fight action in March when he defeated Joel McIntyre to win the English light heavyweight title. It was his second tilt at the English belt, having dropped a split decision against the current British and European champion Dan Azeez in April 2021.

Also featuring on the Wembley card, headlined by The Big Bang seeking to once again knock The Juggernaut off course, is WBC International Silver and Commonwealth lightweight champion Sam Noakes (11-0, 11) defending his titles, along with WBC International super lightweight champion Pierce O’Leary (12-0,7) making a second defence of his belt.

Also in the light heavyweights, the undefeated and flamboyant Nottingham stylist Ezra Taylor (6-0, 4) takes a significant step up when he faces Portsmouth man Joel McIntyre (20-7, 5) over eight rounds.

Former two-time European Amateur champion Royston Barney-Smith will have fight No.7 on his professional journey over six rounds.

Powerhouse cruiserweights and social media enemies Tommy Fletcher (5-0, 4) and Aloys Jr (4-1, 4) will brew their growing rivalry by both fighting in six-round fights to complete the card.

“I am delighted to be getting Anthony Yarde back in business following his January exploits against Artur Beterbiev,” said promoter Frank Warren. “He wants to be and we want him to be in a major fight again before the end of the year so a tough domestic opponent like Ricky Summers is the perfect test in order to bring Anthony back to his best.

“While Ricky will be an obvious outsider, we all know he will give his absolute all and make it as uncomfortable as possible for the favourite.

“A huge heavyweight showdown like Zhilei Zhang v Joe Joyce deserves a compelling undercard and that is what the fans will be getting on 23 September, live on TNT Sports.

“In Sam Noakes and Pierce O’Leary you will see two of the most exciting young fighters in the country and we also have the charismatic future light heavyweight star Ezra Taylor in a tough one against the experienced Joel McIntyre.

“The elite young super featherweight Royston Barney-Smith is also back on parade alongside our two explosive cruiserweight hopes in Tommy Fletcher and Aloys Jr.”

Tickets to see the heavyweight clash between Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, are on sale now available from AXS.com and ticketmaster.co.uk.

Tampa, FL (July 26, 2023) – NABA middleweight champion Connor “The Kid” Coyle will make the third defense of his title when he faces Joey Bryant Saturday, August 19 at the Blind Tiger in Biloxi, MS.

Coyle is 19-0 with 8 wins coming by knockout. Representing Derry, Northern Ireland and training out of Pinellas Park, FL, Coyle’s ranked fifth by the World Boxing Association. On April 29, Coyle successfully defended his NABA belt for a second time by shutting out rugged veteran Christian Rios over ten rounds.

A native of Memphis, TN, Bryant has an impressive 17-1 record. The hard-hitting Bryant’s scored 13 of his victories by knockout.

“I’m excited for this fight and Connor will be sharp against a very hungry fighter in Joey Bryant,” said Coyle’s promoter Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions. “Connor has been training extremely hard with (trainer and manager) Jim McLoughlin. This is the biggest fight of Bryant’s career, so we’re expecting a good challenge.”

Coyle-Bryant headlines a card promoted by Rite Hook Promotions, T&K Boxing Promotions and Tri-Star Boxing Promotions.

LAS VEGAS – July 25, 2023 – Fight week officially kicked off Tuesday as undefeated boxing superstars and pound-for-pound greats Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford made their grand arrivals at MGM Grand before they meet this Saturday, July 29 headlining a SHOWTIME PPV from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

The unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Spence and WBO Welterweight World Champion Crawford will face-off Saturday night in a much anticipated clash to crown the first undisputed 147-pound champion of the four-belt era, with the winner likely to emerge as the sport’s top pound-for-pound fighter. Both fighters spoke to the historic nature of the fight in front of a large throng of fans at Tuesday’s grand arrivals.

“It would be a dream come true to become the first welterweight undisputed champion of the world in the four-belt era,” said Spence. “I watched all the great fighters as a kid. Now, I get to have my moment.

“I want the bright lights and the glory… He’s in his prime. I’m in my prime. We are the two best fighters in the welterweight division. The winner of the fight on Saturday night will be the best fighter in boxing.” 

“It’s going to be even sweeter to win the undisputed championship for the second time,” said Crawford, who previously was undisputed at 140-pounds, and who can become the first man to become undisputed at two weights with a win on Saturday. “That’s why we take the chances we take. That’s why we fight the way we fight. This is a fight that the world’s been craving.

“My name is already up there with the all-time greatest welterweight fighters. It’s just a matter of going out there on Saturday and putting the cherry on top and furthering my legacy.”

The grand arrivals also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view telecast that begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and will see hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz duel undefeated Giovanni Cabrera in a WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator that serves as the co-main event. The pay-per-view will also see future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire facing Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight World Championship, plus top prospect Yoenis Tellez takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in the super welterweight telecast opener.

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

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

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

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 25, 2023) – Undefeated lightweight, Andres “Savage” Cortes (19-0, 10 KOs), is ready to return to the ring this Friday, July 28, at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, where he will be a part of a ten-round junior lightweight bout. He takes on contender Xavier Martinez (18-1, 12 KOs) in a fight that could very well have world title implications. 

The bout serves as the co-main event to Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada as she looks to defend her WBC and WBA minimumweight world titles against former world champion Leonela Yudica, which will be topping the bill of the broadcast on ESPN+.

Cortes, who was a stand-out amateur best known for defeating Teofimo Lopez in the amateurs, signed with Top Rank Inc., in 2020. Cortes has proven to be a complete fighter and is looking to take his career to the next level. 

Here is what Cortes had to say about his recent training camp, his upcoming matchup with Xavier Martinez, fighting at home and more.

On his recent training camp:

“Training camp has been great, and we finally finished up. I am training with my brother day in and day out. It is a lot of hard work, and training here in Las Vegas, it has been really hot, so it’s been a bit brutal. I feel winning a fight like this puts me in the position to be able to call out the top names in the division. I am not satisfied with my position in the sport of boxing, and I have entered this camp with a deep hunger. I worked very hard and have had to prove a lot to myself, the fans, and promoters to get to this point. I truly believe this will be a fight that defines my career up to this poing. I treated this camp with that same level of intensity.”

?

On his matchup with Xavier Martinez:

“I see a lot of similarities between myself and Xavier. We both hit hard, and I know he has a high ring IQ like me. The man with the most desire with be victorious, and I envision that being me. Its going to be a rough fight, but I know I have the skills and will to come out on top. I’m expecting this fight to the distance.

On fighting on ESPN+

“It is big to have a great promoter behind me and trust that on a big fight weekend, I can be the co-main event of a world-class boxing show. I want to thank everyone at Top Rank for believing in me. I am humbled by this opportunity, and I hope that I can put on a performance that makes the fans, my promoter, and the boxing world at large want to see me in the main event of a fight card soon, if not next.”

On fighting in his hometown of Las Vegas, Nevada:

“I love it. Familiar faces in the crowd, no airports for this fight. I will be able to come and go the way I want. It makes the meal prep for the weight cut that much easier. Vegas is my city and people will see that I can bring a crowd. I will have fans in the building, and I am energized to go out there and show that I will be a world champion. I’m thrilled to be back fighting in my hometown. I am overjoyed at having my biggest fight to date in the place that shaped me into the man I am today.”

QUINCY, Mass. (July 25, 2023) – Hometown favorite Eslih Owuso (9-1, 4 KOs) will provide chief undercard support for the increasingly entertaining “Pandemonium at The Palladium” card on August 19^th at the famed Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

“Pandemonium at The Palladium”, presented by Granite Chin Promotions, will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com.

Owusu’s lone loss as a professional was in 2022 when he lost a 10-round decision in Copenhagen to undefeated Dane prospect Oliver Meng (8-0) for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) World Youth Super Welterweight Championship. Owusu, who is the reigning ABF Mid-American middleweight champion, will meet Texas veteran Larry “Slo Mo” Smith.

Owusu will be fighting at home in Worcester for the fourth time. In addition to Denmark, he’s also fought in Ghana and Mexico.

“It is always great to get a hometown fighter on your show,” GCP President Chris Traietti said. “Eslih is a nice up and coming fighter with a good local fan-base. When the opportunity presented itself to get him on the card, we jumped on the chance. This card has a lot of everything from local to international talent. The Palladium is going to be packed on August 19^th.”

Undefeated super middleweights Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (8-0, 7 KOs), of Pittsfield (MA), Lynn’s (MA) James “Pitbull” Perkins (12-0-1, 9 KOs), will go to battle in the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Americas Super Middleweight Championship.

Undefeated Massachusetts Welterweight Champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (11-0, 6 KOs) takes on Hector “El Gatito” Esnar Bobadilla (9-14-1, 4 KOs) in an eight-round, co-featured event for the vacant United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Atlantic welterweight title.

Other fighters slated to be in action on the “Pandemonium at The Palladium” undercard include another  Holyoke boxer, Canadian welterweight Thomas Blumenfeld (2-0, 1 KO) vs. Richard Bernard (1-12-1), Springfield super featherweight Carlos Gonzalez (2-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Johnny “Cupcakes” Campbell, Springfield super lightweight Calixto Cruz (2-0, 1 KO) vs. “The Outlaw” Ryan Venable (1-12-1), pro-debuting Cuban super welterweight Dany Lafos vs. Jay Gregory (0-7),and New Haven (CT) featherweight Felix Parrilla (7-0, 6 KOs) vs. TBA. Blumenfeld was a 2020 Commonwealth Games silver medalist, while Lagos earned a bronze medal at the 2021 AIBA Youth Championships.

Card subject to change.

Card subject to change. Tickets are on sale and available for purchase online at www.ThePalladium.net.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET, first bell at 7:30 p.m. ET.

LAS VEGAS – July 25, 2023 – A historic collection of Fight Week activities is set to kick off as unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. and WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford make their Grand Arrivals to Las Vegas later today before they meet for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

As the two pound-for-pound stars finalize their fight week preparations ahead of one of the most significant title fights of all time, SHOWTIME SPORTS^® has assembled a treasure trove of news and notes to get ready for the biggest boxing event in recent memory.

THE FIGHT OF THE DECADE

Spence vs. Crawford, perhaps the most anticipated fight since Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao in 2015, will likely determine the sport’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter. The fight also carries career-defining, historical consequences:

• Spence vs. Crawford is the first undisputed welterweight championship fight in the four-belt era, which began in 1988.
• Spence vs. Crawford is only the fourth welterweight unification fight in boxing history between unbeaten champions. The other three:

  • Donald Curry (WBA, IBF) vs. Milton McCrory (WBA) in 1985
  • Felix Trinidad (IBF) vs. Oscar De La Hoya (WBC) in 1999
  • Keith Thurman (WBA) vs. Danny Garcia (WBC) in 2017

    • Spence vs. Crawford has the most combined wins between them (67-0).

• Should Crawford win, he’ll become the first male fighter in the four-belt era to become an undisputed champion in two different weight divisions (140 and 147-pounds).
• There have been only 12 other welterweight unification fights in boxing history.

FIGHT WEEK FESTIVITIES

The SHOWTIME Sports YouTube Channel will be home to live streaming coverage of all fight week events, including today’s Grand Arrivals, starting at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, open media undercard workouts on Wednesday kicking off at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT with special appearances from Spence and Crawford, the final press conference Thursday at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT, the weigh-in on Friday at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, and the post-fight press conference. Luke Thomas, co-host of the award-winning live digital talk show MORNING KOMBAT, renowned combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani and sports broadcaster Kate Abdo, who covers UEFA Champions League for CBS Sports and is a former PBC studio host, will serve as the hosts of Friday’s live-streamed weigh-in. The trio will also work the SHOWTIME PPV COUNTDOWN show on Saturday at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, which will include live coverage of preliminary bouts and analysis of the upcoming pay-per-view card.

WHERE TO CATCH ALL THE ACTION

The four-fight pay-per-view event kicks off at a special start time of 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is widely available for purchase and live streaming in the United States at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME app on supported devices including Apple iOS and tvOS devices, Android Mobile, AndroidTV, Roku, Amazon FireTV, Samsung Smart TV and LG Smart TV (2019 models and newer), Xbox One, Xfinity Flex, the Cox Wireless 4K Contour Stream Player and online at SHOWTIME.com and DAZN.com. The event is also available for purchase in the U.S. via satellite and telco systems through DIRECTV^®, DISH, Sling TV and Vubiquity.  The suggested retail price is $84.95 (SRP). In Canada, viewers can purchase and access the event via traditional cable and satellite distributors (Bell, Rogers, Shaw, SaskTel/TELUS and FITE TV, a digital distributor). Liberty and Claro TV will offer the event in Puerto Rico. G&G Closed Circuit Events is the commercial distributor within the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada.

The official promotional spot, which offers a fiery sampling of the raw power and hostilities that will be on display on July 29, is available HERE.

THE INDUSTRY LEADERS

SHOWTIME SPORTS is in the middle of one of the hottest runs in the network’s 37-year history of televising live boxing. Since the start of 2023, the industry’s strongest schedule has included 20 marquee events that have been announced (including July 29) with three dates apiece in February, March, April, June and July. Spence vs. Crawford will mark the third of five live SHOWTIME Boxing events over the course of six weeks.

The schedule has included Fight of the Year contenders – Subriel Matias stopping Jeremias Ponce on February 25 and Brandon Figueroa decisioning Mark Magsayo on March 4. It has also included KO of the Year contenders – Brian Mendoza’s one-punch KO of Sebastian Fundora, Tim Tszyu’s left-hook KO of Carlos Ocampo and Jaron Ennis’ brutal finish of Roiman Villa. It has also included the biggest names in the sport facing each other, featuring Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia, David Benavídez vs. Caleb Plant and now Spence vs. Crawford, with more superstars to make their 2023 SHOWTIME debuts in the Fall.

AWARD-WINNING STORYTELLING

Two episodes of the EMMY^® Award-wining SHOWTIME original documentary series ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD are available now on SHOWTIME, streaming on the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan, and on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel for non-network subscribers. ALL ACCESS, which is voiced by Barry Pepper,sets the stage for the long-awaited showdown and outlines the stakes for both unbeaten champions and why this fight is so crucial to their legacies.

Episode One currently has 1.9 million views, while Episode Two has 1.5 million views on the SHOWTIME Sports YouTube channel alone.

The ALL ACCESS cameras will be in Las Vegas all week, filming ALL ACCESS: SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD EPILOGUE, which will premiere Saturday, August 5. The epilogue will spotlight the drama of fight week and provide an exclusive, first-hand account from fight night like no other show on television, revealing private moments between the fighters, their teams and loved ones.

WORKOUT WARRIORS

If last week’s media workouts are any indication, Spence and Crawford are both in fantastic shape, ready to engage in a battle of attrition if the fight goes into the later rounds. Spence and Crawford didn’t just move around the ring and smile for the cameras, they filled the time by training as if the media wasn’t in attendance, running through their paces and displaying the type of focus, stamina and skills that have made them two of the best and left them drenched in perspiration. Crawford’s workout last Wednesday was an exercise in efficiency as he trained for over an hour with few breaks while Spence’s session on Thursday showcased his incredible work-rate and physicality as he also trained for over an hour with both looking sharp and ready to do battle. 

A GENTLEMANLY AFFAIR

Ever since the fight was officially announced by both fighters on May 25 and they appeared on ESPN’s First Take the next morning, Spence and Crawford have remained consistent with their messages to each other and the public. They both have the upmost confidence in themselves, but they also share a mutual respect and deference that seems almost quaint and old-fashioned by today’s boastful standards. Rather than harp on the damage they plan to inflict on the other, the two have focused on the potential for their fight to become an instant classic, given their exciting styles, championship pedigrees and ultra-competitive mindsets.

“The proof is in the pudding. You see Terence Crawford and you see his body of work. You see my body of work when I get in the ring. Everybody already knows. As soon as I get in the ring, I’m stepping. I expect him to step too. We’re going to put on a great show and a great performance,” Spence told Stephen A. Smith.

“I can guarantee that everyone is gonna witness something special. Errol doesn’t like to back up. I’m the type of fighter where you push me and I push even harder. We both have big hearts and like to fight. It makes for a great action-packed fight. July 29 is gonna be a great night for boxing,” Crawford said when the two first met at the kickoff press conference in Los Angeles.

COMMON FOES

There are two common opponents on both Spence and Crawford’s resumes, former two-time welterweight champion Shawn Porter and former IBF welterweight champion Kell Brook.

Porter dropped a 2019 Fight of the Year to Spence, before losing the final fight of his career to Crawford in November 2021. Brook faced Spence in May 2017 as Spence traveled to the U.K. to capture his first career world title, while Brook came stateside to face Crawford in November 2020, losing by fourth-round TKO. Their dual perspectives on Saturday’s outcome conveyed the 50-50 nature of the matchup.

“I don’t have a pick. I don’t know who is going to win this fight. This is what boxing truly is. Both guys have basically everything needed to win, from power to speed. I truly don’t think anyone can look at this fight and say, ‘That guy is going to win,’ because there are so many outcomes and possibilities,” said Porter.

“I think Terence is a very sharp and snapping puncher and Errol has a more grinding and thumping kind of power. That’s the difference I see in the two. We’re talking about two star fighters and it’s going to come down to a very small margin and they’re going to have to bring every part of their game to get a victory,” said Brook.

HOW MUCH YOU WANT TO BET?

DraftKings, the official sportsbook sponsor of Spence vs. Crawford, views “Bud” as a slight favorite on Saturday night. He is currently listed as a -150 favorite, while “The Truth” is a +120 underdog. A $100 bet on Crawford would win $66.67 while a $100 bet on Spence would win $120.00.

The oddsmakers at DraftKings view the fight going into the later rounds as the most likely outcome. The odds for the fight to go over 10.5 rounds are -270 and the odds for the fight to go under 10.5 rounds are +190. For those who believe the fight will end via stoppage, the odds for Spence to win by KO/TKO/DQ are +500, while the odds for Crawford to win via the same method are +270.

THE A TEAM

Veteran sportscaster and “The Last Stand” podcaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME PPV telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will once again handle the blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. The telecast will include Hall of Famers Jim Gray as ringside reporter and Jimmy Lennon, Jr., in his role as ring announcer. Sportscaster Alejandro Luna will call the action in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) with former world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez serving as the expert analyst. Four-time Emmy^® Award winner David Dinkins, Jr. will executive-produce the telecast with Bob Dunphy directing.

#          #          #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

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

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

Top Rank presented by AutoZone: Estrada vs. Yudica will be live this Friday, July 28 at 11 p.m. ET / 8:00 p.m. PT exclusively on ESPN+. The event takes place at Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada.

In the main event, pound-for-pound dynamo Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada (24-0, 9 KOs) will defend her WBC and WBA minimumweight world titles against Argentina’s former world champion Leonela Yudica (19-1-3, 1 KO).

Seniesa is a 12-year pro who has competed at the world class level in three weight classes. She recently added the WBC belt to her collection in March with a shutout win over the previously unbeaten Tina Rupprecht. Yudica, from San Juan, Argentina, turned pro in 2012 and held the IBF flyweight title for nearly eight years before losing it in a tightly contested split decision loss to Arely Muciño in October 2022. She’s coming off a 10-round decision victory over Tamara Elisabet Demarco in April. 

In the co-feature, unbeaten Las Vegas native Andres “Savage” Cortes (19-0, 10 KOs) will take on Sacramento-born contender Xavier Martinez (18-1, 12 KOs) in a 10-round junior lightweight clash.

Cortes was a standout amateur, defeating Teofimo Lopez twice in the unpaid ranks. Now a seven-year pro, he has built a reputation for engaging in action-packed affairs. Martinez returns to action following an 11-month layoff, intent on proving he belongs in the junior lightweight title conversation.

ESPN’s Joe Tessitore will call the action with Hall of Famer, Timothy Bradley, Jr.  Mark Kriegel and Bernardo Osuna?will serve as reporters.

ESPN.com

• Out Tuesday: Updated women’s divisional rankings

ESPN+, ESPN App Boxing Content: Live and Upcoming, On Demand, Studio Shows, Archives

• Top Rank: Real TimeGo all-access with top fighters throughout fight week as they work their way to fight night
• Boxing
• Top Rank
• State of Boxing

• Max on BoxingMax Kellerman hosts a 30-minute series weighing in on key boxing news and providing insights on the sport’s top fighters and upcoming events
• Who Do U Fight 4?Get to know the next generation of Top Rank stars and learn what drives them

Follow @ESPNRingside: Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok

All Times ET

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

About ESPN+  

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).   

White Plains, NY (July 24, 2023) — Star Boxing kept busy over the weekend as top world rated light heavyweight RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN RIVERA (now 25-1 19KO’s) and cruiserweight LYUBOMYR “DEMOLITION MAN” PINCHUK (now 14-4-2 8KO’s) laced up the gloves in separate shows from different parts of the globe.

Richie Rivera in Colombia

In Malambo Colombia, Richie Rivera took on Yuri Mendez in a scheduled 10-round light heavyweight bout, in which Rivera wasted no time slugging away at the outgunned Mendez. A thudding body shot just 54 seconds into round number one, sent Mendez to the canvas, where he remained forcing referee Leonel Mercado to wave off the action. With the TKO victory, Richie Rivera, who is currently world rated #6 (WBA), #6 (WBO – at cruiserweight), #8 (WBC), #11 (IBF), 8 (WBC), improved to 25-1 with 19 wins coming by way of knockout. Rivers is looking ahead to a significant fight that will lead him to a world championship opportunity  in the very near future.

Lyubomry Pinchuk in Pennsylvania

Simultaneously in Washington, Pennsylvania, another  “Summer Slugfest” was presented as Star Boxing’s Lyubomyr Pinchuk went to battle with Anthony Holloway over a competitive 8-round cruiserweight bout. Both men remained active over the course of the bout, with Pinchuk seemingly getting the better of most exchanges. While Holloway had his moments in the bout, Pinchuk’s ring generalship dictated the fight. To the surprise of many in attendance, the bout was declared a draw. 79-72 Pinchuk, 75-77 Holloway, 76-76 draw. Pinchuk is now 14-4-2 8KO’s.

The full “Summer Slugfest” fight card is available  on demand replay this week on StarBoxing.TV.

ABOUT STARBOXING.TV:

STAR BOXING TV brings you live action, Star Boxing archives and countless hours of thrilling professional boxing with over 30 years of entertainment. Subscribe today and never miss another punch! StarBoxing.TV is available at home or on the go via Roku, IOS and Google Play app store, Amazon Fire and Web at www.StarBoxing.TV.

Santa Ynez, CA (July 24, 2023) Saturday night at the Chumash Casino Resort and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS, WBC #2 Ranked Super Welterweight Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (23-1, 23 KOs), continued his knockout streak through the division with a stunning, one punch, first round knockout (2:32) of World Title Challenger, Patrick Allotey, (42-5, 32 KO), of Accra, Ghana.

Presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions, Bohachuk vs. Allotey headlined another installment of the acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights series.

Said Loeffler, “Serhii continued to prove why he’s the most exciting fighter in the super welterweight division. He’s ready for a world title fight now.”

“The entire card was full of action-packed fights, the crowd here at Chumash Casino was tremendous and we look forward to returning in the future.”

In the evening’s co-feature, Southern California favorite Omar Trinidad, (13-0-1, 10 KOs), continued to shine with a sixth-round stoppage of Roberto Meza, (15-4-1, 8 KOs). Dropping Meza in the third and fifth round, Trinidad earned the victory with a dominant performance as the fight was stopped at the 1:16 mark of the sixth round.

In a battle of undefeated light heavyweights, Umar Dzambekov, (6-0, 5 KOs), of Austria, defeated Kwame Ritter, (10-1, 8 KOs), over eight rounds. Scores were 79-73, 79-73 and 78-74.

The hard-hitting southpaw took control of the fight after an even first two rounds using an aggressive body attack to score throughout the second half of the fight.

Junior welterweight Cain Sandoval, (10-0, 10 KOs), fighting for the second time under the 360 Promotions’ banner, stopped the valiant Jose Marruffo, (14-12-2, 2 KOs), in the sixth round (2:28). Sandoval dropped Marruffo at the end of the second round and earned the stoppage victory from a barrage of unanswered punches in the sixth stanza of their scheduled eight-rounder.

Bantamweight veteran Narek Abgaryan, (16-1, 6 KOs), made his long-awaited return to action with a sixth round (0:41) knockout of Manuel Manzo, (9-8-3, 4 KOs) in a fight scheduled for eight rounds. Abgaryan used excellent counter punching throughout and forced the referee’s stoppage from a multiple punch combination which badly hurt Manza.

Opening the UFC FIGHT PASS broadcast, fast-rising star, 21-year-old Daniel ‘Chucky’ Barrera, (3-0-1, 2 KOs), knocked out Eduardo Alvarez, (0-3-1) in the first round (1:42) of a scheduled six-rounder flyweight bout. A battering left hook to the body dropped Alvarez for the count.

Prior to the start of the broadcast, Jorge Maravillo, (8-0, 8 KOs), stopped Terry Fernandez, (6-2, 6 KOs), in the first round (0:43) of their scheduled six round super welterweight bout.

                                                ————————————————–

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Instagram

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@360BoxingPromotions

@howlerheadehiskey

Twitter

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (July 24, 2023) – Mexico’s featherweight king is set to put his crown on the line during Mexican Independence Day Weekend. 

Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez will defend his IBF world title against former two-time world title challenger Joet Gonzalez on Friday, September 15 at American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. Lopez returns stateside after back-to-back championship showdowns abroad.

In the 10-round junior middleweight co-feature, rising Puerto Rican sensation Xander Zayas takes on Mexico’s Roberto Valenzuela Jr.

Lopez-Gonzalez and Zayas-Valenzuela will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $30 go on sale Tuesday, July 25 at 3 p.m. CST via Ticketmaster.com.

“The fight fans in Corpus Christi and everyone watching on ESPN are in for a real treat. Luis Alberto Lopez is one of Mexico’s emerging champions, and Joet Gonzalez is a seasoned pro who is a difficult night at the office for anyone,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “I am also pleased to see Puerto Rico’s next superstar, Xander Zayas, back in the ring against a step-up opponent in Valenzuela.”

Lopez (28-2, 16 KOs) overcame numerous challenges in his quest to become a world champion. After early-career losses to Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa, he defeated Andy Vences via split decision in July 2020 and dominated then-unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over 10 rounds in September 2021. Lopez then moved down to featherweight and stopped another undefeated foe, Isaac Lowe, in seven rounds at London’s York Hall. After two stay-busy wins, he earned his shot at the IBF title, dethroning Josh Warrington in his hometown of Leeds, England. In his first defense, the 29-year-old once again traveled to enemy territory and beat Michael Conlan via fifth-round TKO with a dazzling right uppercut in Belfast.

“We’re going to bring a memorable all-Mexican war to Corpus Christi on Mexican Independence Day Weekend,” Lopez said. “Nothing but respect to Joet, but he’s not leaving Texas with my belt. I guarantee an exciting fight, but the IBF world title will still be wrapped around my waist.”

Gonzalez (26-3, 15 KOs) debuted in the pro ranks in 2012 and was 23-0 before facing Shakur Stevenson for the vacant WBO featherweight title in 2019. He dominated veteran Miguel Marriaga in his September 2020 return before losing his second attempt at the WBO strap in a 2021 Fight of the Year contender against Emanuel Navarrete. Gonzalez then stopped Jeo Santisima via ninth-round TKO in March 2022 before dropping a split decision to Isaac Dogboe in July of that year. The 29-year-old will have his third opportunity at a world title after defeating Enrique Vivas via 10-round unanimous decision in April.

Gonzalez said, “I am thankful to Top Rank that I am receiving another shot at the world title. I plan on taking full advantage of this opportunity and fulfilling my dream. Lopez is an excellent champion, but I’m coming to Texas with every intention on hearing the words, ‘And NEW!’”

Zayas (16-0, 10 KOs) has been on a rapid trajectory to super stardom since signing with Top Rank at 16. He has maintained an unblemished record since debuting as a pro in October 2019. In 2022, he scored eight-round decision wins over Quincy LaVallais and Alexis Salazar, along with a fifth-round TKO against Elias Espadas. The 20-year-old will make his second 2023 appearance after a 10-round unanimous decision win over Ronald Cruz during Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend in June. Valenzuela (21-4, 20 KOs) is a six-year pro who has given stiff tests to Alexis Rocha, Souleymane Cissokho and Bakhram Murtazaliev. The 24-year-old Mexican is coming off a third-round TKO victory against Daniel Vega in April.

Xayas said, “I am excited for the next big step in my career that will take place on September 15 in Corpus Christi, Texas, against a Mexican warrior that I know will come prepared to give his best and will bring out the best in me. I am training hard to continue showing Puerto Rico and all of Latin America what I am capable inside the ring.”

The ESPN+-streamed undercard includes an all-Mexico showdown, a U.S. Olympian, and the return of three of Top Rank’s top contenders. 

Mexican standouts Omar Aguilar (25-1, 24 KOs) and Julio Luna (20-1-2, 11 KOs) will collide in an eight-round welterweight battle. Both are on the comeback trail following losses to two of Top Rank’s finest. Aguilar suffered his first career setback against Lindolfo Delgado last August and returned with a second-round TKO win over Cristian Sonora Soltero in May. Luna dropped a 10-round decision to Giovani Santillan last August, but he bounced back with a third-round knockout win against Hassam Valenzuela in March.

Lightweight contender Jamaine Ortiz (16-1-1, 8 KOs) returns in a 10-rounder. Last October, the 27-year-old took an early lead against former lightweight champion Vasiliy “Loma” Lomachenko before losing the tightly contested battle via unanimous decision. 

Brazilian Olympic gold medalist and former two-time title challenger Robson Conceicao (17-2, 8 KOs) will see action in an eight-round junior lightweight tilt. Conceicao heads to the ring for the second time this year following a no contest against Nicolas Polanco in June.

Former world title challenger Ruben Villa (20-1, 7 KOs) returns in an eight-round featherweight clash against Colombia’s Brandon Valdes (15-3, 7 KOs). Villa dominated Maickol Lopez Villagrana en route to a fifth-round KO in May.

U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (9-0, 5 KOs) makes his third appearance of 2023 in an eight-round junior welterweight fight against an opponent to be named. He scored a dominant decision win over Jonathan Montrel in July.

LAS VEGAS – July 24, 2023 – Closed circuit tickets for the much-anticipated blockbuster showdown between undefeated boxing superstars Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and Terence “Bud” Crawford will go on sale TODAY at 10 a.m. PT ahead of their matchup on Saturday, July 29 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Tickets for the closed circuit telecast at the MGM Grand Garden Arena can be purchased at AXS.com.

Doors at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, the exclusive CCTV location for fans to watch Spence vs. Crawford on the Las Vegas Strip, will open at 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, July 29, with the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 5:00 p.m. PT.

#         #         #

ABOUT SPENCE VS. CRAWFORD

Spence vs. Crawford will see unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth’’ Spence Jr. take on WBO 147-pound world champion Terence “Bud’’ Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship on Saturday, July 29 in a highly anticipated SHOWTIME PPV^® clash from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The pay-per-view begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and features hard-hitting contender Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz facing unbeaten Giovanni Cabrera in a 12-round WBC and WBA Lightweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event, plus future Hall of Famer Nonito Donaire battles Mexican contender Alexandro Santiago for the vacant WBC Bantamweight Title. Kicking off the telecast is top prospect Yoenis Tellez dueling Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 10-round super welterweight attraction.

The event is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TBC Promotions and TGB Promotions.

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

NEW YORK, NY – July 24, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced it has signed Javon “Wanna” Walton, boxing prodigy and actor best known for his role as “Ashtray” on the Emmy-winning series Euphoria. Fighting at 125 pounds, Walton has over 80 amateur bouts under his belt, which include wins in multiple junior amateur tournaments and five Georgia state titles. MVP, founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021, will utilize Bidarian’s media, sports and finance acumen to advise Walton on brand building, content creation, and marketing of events along with Paul’s viral content creation and marketing genius. MVP will advise him as he finishes out the remainder of his amateur career and prepares to make his professional debut in 2024. Walton will make his first MVP appearance as a participant in the open workouts on Wednesday, August 2nd, in Dallas, TX, as part of the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz fight week.

“I’ve been training so hard and working for the majority of my life for this moment. MVP feels like family and that’s very important to me. I know they can help me reach my goals in professional boxing and do it in a way that feels special to me.” said, Walton.

Walton, who turned 17 two days ago, will remain an amateur boxer in development with MVP, and will join MVP’s elite roster of superstar athletes and up-and-coming stars including Jake Paul, undisputed Featherweight World Champion Amanda Serrano, prolific top boxing prospect Ashton Sylve, and power-puncher Shadasia Green. As the youngest-ever athlete to sign with Nike’s Jordan Brand, Walton will continue to excel as a boxer and compete in MVP’s future marquee events and Most Valuable Prospects showcase series. He will continue training under his father and coach, DJ Walton.

Walton got his start at the age of four when he became one of America’s youngest amateur prospects. His skill and hard work earned him the title of multi-time Junior Regional Champion and two-time Junior Olympic national silver medalist. In addition to his boxing chops, Walton was also a USA Gymnastics-ranked elite rising star and was named to their exclusive Future Star program at age eight, one of only seven in the southeast. Walton continued on to compete at the elite level in trampoline and floor tumbling (TNT), finishing with top three in the nation with a silver medal in all-round in 2016. Walton is the first and only athlete in the state of Georgia to hold the youth gymnastics all-around and USA Boxing/Silver Gloves boxing champion state titles simultaneously. 

The Atlanta native is also a world-renowned actor who captured international attention with his debut role as the beloved drug dealer “Ashtray” in the HBO Max Emmy-winning series Euphoria starring alongside Hollywood icons Zendaya and Sydney Sweeney. Walton’s credits also include roles in Season 3 of Netflix’s Umbrella Academy, the Amazon Prime Video series Utopia, MGM’s SAMARITAN, where he starred opposite Sylvester Stallone, and BRON Studios and MGM’s animated comedy The Addams Family 2, where he made his voice acting debut as Pugsley Addams. Walton will also star in Hulu’s upcoming true-crime mini-series release, Under the Bridge, where he plays a main character alongside Riley Keough. 

Walton has garnered an impressive social audience of over 13 million followers across his platforms and has become one of the most marketable names for premiere athletic and consumer brands. At only eight years old, he was the youngest athlete identified by Under Armour and became one of seven athletes to be crowned ‘NEXT,’ Under Armour’s youth athlete elite development program. Walton was also featured in the advertising campaign for the Muhammed Ali Collection in 2018 and was prominently highlighted in UA’s Will Finds A Way campaign alongside Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. 

“We see this as an incredible opportunity to make a big impact on Wanna’s entrance into professional boxing. The way Nakisa and Jake have been able to disrupt the boxing promotion business in such a considerably short period of time is inspiring. We’re honored to be MVP’s youngest signee.” Said Walton’s coach and father, DJ Walton

In addition to acting, Wanna has attracted the attention of major brands like Essentia Water and PSD Underwear. Drake’s OVO then tapped Walton to model another of their collaborations with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Additional brand partnerships for the young star include collaborations with Gap and Venmo, as the face of its new teen card. 

“Wanna Walton is uniquely positioned to become the face of combat sports over the next decade. With an unmatched blend of skills and pedigree, strong values, and a large highly engaged fan base before turning pro, he embodies a true superstar in the making,” said MVP co-founders Nakisa Bidarian and Jake Paul. “We’re honored to welcome Wanna into our family of exceptional athletes and under MVP, he will be headlining global pay-per-view events in no time. MVP is leading a new era of boxing and Wanna is the future. We can’t wait to see his greatness unfold.”

Founded with the mission to give athletes creative control, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its talent partners and events. As one of the most successful and iconic creators in the world, Paul has one of the largest followings on YouTube, with over 70 million followers across his digital platforms – creating an invaluable built-in marketing system that coordinates with his efforts in the ring. His co-founder, the former CFO of UFC, former CEO and Co-Founder of Fertitta Capital and founder of BAVAFA Sports, Bidarian, has demonstrated a deep understanding of corporate finance, content creation and operational strategy working together to build successful businesses. 

Together, Paul and Bidarian have architected Jake Paul’s meteoric rise in combat sports. In 2021, MVP signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano and since signing with the company, she has become Undisputed Featherweight Champion. Her historic clash against Katie Taylor at Madison Square Garden in 2022 earned recognition as Sports Illustrated’s Fight of the Year, The Ring’s Event of the Year and was further nominated for Event of the Year by Sports Business Journal. The event marked a pivotal point in women’s sports history as the first-time women have headlined a main event at the world-renowned venue in New York City. MVP’s other signees include the prolific undefeated young boxing prospect Ashton “H20” Sylve and one of boxing’s most powerful female punchers, Shadasia “The Sweet Terminator” Green.

For more information, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul @MostVPromotions and @OnwardWanna, or on Instagram via @JakePaul, @MostValuablePromotions, and @OnwardWanna.

About Most Valuable Promotions (MVP)

Most Valuable Promotions was founded by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian in 2021. With the mission to provide more creative control to fighters, MVP works to identify, grow, and maximize return for its own events and talent partners. One year into its inception, MVP was nominated as one of the prestigious Sports Breakthroughs of the Year in 2022 by Sports Business Journal. MVP has produced Jake Paul’s last four global pay-per-view events, including the recent Paul vs. Fury match, which surpassed 800,000 Pay-per-view buys worldwide. The promotion company also signed one of the most decorated Hispanic athletes of all time, Amanda Serrano in its first year. Serrano and MVP made history in April of 2022 when Serrano went head-to-head with Katie Taylor, marking the first female fight to headline at Madison Square Garden, recently earning a nomination for Event of The Year by Sports Business Journal. Co-founder Nakisa Bidarian was an executive producer of the historic Triller Presents Mike Tyson v. Roy Jones Jr., which was the 8th most bought pay-per-view event in history.

 •  Stephen Fulton Jr. 121.9 lbs. vs. Naoya Inoue 121.7lbs
(Fulton’s WBO & WBC Junior Featherweight World Titles— 12 Rounds)

   •   Robeisy Ramirez 125.7 lbs vs. Satoshi Shimizu 125.7 lbs
(Ramirez’s WBO Featherweight World Title — 12 Rounds)

•    Kanamu Sakama107.5 lbs vs. Ryu Horikawa 107.8 lbs 
 (Light Flyweight — 8 Rounds)

•   Yoshiki Takei 118.8 lbs vs. Ronnie Baldonado 117.5 lbs 
 (Junior Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

TOKYO (July 22, 2023) —  Three-division world champion Naoya “Monster” Inoue  (24-0, 21 KOs) will embark on his quest to conquer a fourth weight class as he challenges WBC/WBO junior featherweight world champion Stephen Fulton (21-0, 8 KOs)this Tuesday, July 25 at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan

In the 12-round co-feature, Cuban sensation Robeisy “El Tren” Ramirez (12-1, 7 KOs) will make the first defense of his WBO featherweight world title against Japanese contender Satoshi Shimizu (11-1, 10 KOs).

Fulton-Inoue, Ramirez-Shimizu and undercard fights will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. starting at 4:30 a.m. ET/1:30 a.m. PT.

At Saturday’s press conference, this is what Inoue and Ramirez had to say:

Naoya Inoue

“Coming up to junior featherweight to be able to challenge Stephen Fulton for the title has given me great motivation. I get excited thinking about this fight and about how I will perform. I’ve been watching film of Fulton, and I think he is a very intelligent fighter.” 

“I haven’t been a challenger in five years, and that has heightened my motivation as well. I think I will be able to perform better than before.”

“Due to my injury, the fight had to be rescheduled for the 25th. And I feel grateful for the cooperation from all the people involved in the promotion and Team Fulton to make this happen. And because of that gratitude, I want to fight with everything I have on the 25th.”

Robeisy Ramirez

“I feel great. We’ve had a great training camp. I’m very happy to be in Japan and to get to know this country and its culture. I’m ready for everything that lies ahead.”

“I don’t know much about my opponent, but as I have said since this fight was presented to me, we all know that Japanese fighters are warriors. I hope he is ready because I am coming at 100 percent.”

“This is my first defense, and it’s always super important for any champion. This is the next step on my way to becoming the best featherweight in the world. I’m going to be me and have fun, the Robeisy that everyone knows inside the ring.”

Tuesday, July 25

ESPN+ (4:30 a.m. ET/1:30 a.m. PT)
 

Stephen Fulton vs. Naoya Inoue, 12 rounds, Fulton’s WBC/WBO Junior Featherweight World Titles 

Robeisy Ramirez vs. Satoshi Shimizu, 12 rounds, Ramirez’s WBO Featherweight World Title 

Kanamu Sakama vs. Ryu Horikawa, 8 rounds, Light Flyweight 

Yoshiki Takei vs. Ronnie Baldonado, 8 rounds, Junior Featherweight 

# # #

About ESPN+  
ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 25.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).