TOLEDO, Ohio (June 29, 2023) — Toledo’s knockout king is ready to shine in his hometown Saturday evening.

Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson (14-0, 14 KOs) will fight former world champion “Prince” Charles Martin (29-3-1, 26 KOs) in the 10-round main event at Toledo’s Huntington Center. 

In the 10-round heavyweight co-feature, Montreal-based wrecking ball Arslanbek Makhmudov (16-0, 15 KOs) takes on Nigeria’s Raphael Akpejiori (15-0, 14 KOs).

Anderson-Martin and Makhmudov-Akpejiori will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. In a special feature just before the main event, lightweight phenom Abdullah Mason (8-0, 7 KOs) will take on Alex de Oliveira (20-4, 14 KOs) in a six-rounder.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard (6:15 p.m ET/3:15 p.m. PT) will feature Toledo natives DeAndre Ware and Tyler McCreary.

Ware (15-4-2, 9 KOs) returns to the ring against Decarlo Perez (19-8-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight tilt, while McCreary (17-2-1, 8 KOs) takes on veteran Deivi Julio (26-13, 16 KOs) in a six-round junior lightweight battle.

Junior welterweight standout Tiger Johnson (8-0, 5 KOs) will face Jonathan Montrel (15-1, 10 KOs) in an eight-round bout, and light heavyweight prospect Dante Benjamin Jr. (6-0, 4 KOs) will meet Mirady Zola (4-2, 1 KO) in a six-round clash.

Junior middleweight prospect Husam Al Mashhadi (6-0, 5 KOs), the fighting pride of Dearborn Heights, Michigan, fights the durable Rance Ward (7-5-1, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.

Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Warriors Boxing, tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

At Thursday’s press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.

Jared Anderson
 
“This is super special. I’m super excited. I’m the talk of the town. It’s a new feeling. I’m happy to be here. I’m happy to embrace it. I’m happy to be an inspiration for the kids.”
 
“I come prepared for anything and everything. Luckily, he is still a southpaw. I think that was the biggest reason that we chose him after the change. He’s also a bigger name. He is a former world champion. He has fought a few world titleholders as well.”
 
“I’m prepared for everything. It didn’t throw a monkey wrench in the plan, but it definitely made us go back to the drawing board, look at the tapes, and come back with a plan.”
 
“My toughest fight outside the ring is life because it throws curveballs at you that you just don’t expect sometimes. I think I’ve been through a lot in my 23 years, and I think I’ve handled it well.”

Charles Martin
 
“I was happy when I got the call. I had been putting in a lot of work, so I was happy that the hard work was finally paying off. I’ve dedicated myself fully. I leave no stones unturned. You can’t do that in this game.”
 
“Surprisingly, I won my national championship here in Toledo, Ohio before I turned professional. So, I’m kind of just coming back and reliving the experience. It’s a good thing.”
 
“I’m up for the challenge. He’s a big, strong, young lion. And I’m here.”

Arslanbek Makhmudov
 
“Camp was good. Everything was great. I just can’t wait for it to be Saturday so I can perform. Montreal has been good for me. It’s a comfortable place for my family, and it’s comfortable for my training.”
 
“I came here to compete against the best and become the champion of the world. That’s my goal, my target and my dream. That’s why I started boxing when I was nine years old. I have a lot of experience as an amateur and that helps me as a professional.”

Raphael Akpejiori
 
“I came here on a basketball scholarship from Nigeria. I was one of those kids who did everything they could to make life better for myself and my family. I played basketball for four years, and I played football until grad school. I got my master’s degree. I was picked up by the Miami Dolphins. I didn’t make the final cut, so I started boxing. And then I fell in love with the sport.”
 
“I met up with very good people. They say that every time a student wants to learn, a teacher magically appears. My coach is the ‘Road Warrior’ himself, Glen Johnson, and he took me to another level. All my coaches have helped take me to another level, and I’m excited to be here.”
 
“This is the best guy I will have faced. But to be a champion, you have to go through some fire. And I have put myself in line to go through that fire. All I have to do is listen to the ‘Road Warrior’ and do everything we’ve done in camp.”
 
Tiger Johnson

“I’m really excited. Everyone’s about to see what Ohio is made of. For as long as boxing has been around, Ohio has always had legends. So, we’re about to put on a show. In every camp, we always go back to the fundamentals. Everyone will see my improvement on Saturday night.”

Dante Benjamin Jr.
 
“I love training. It’s like a family at the gym. I have a lot of fun. This past camp has been fun because my friends have been training with me. They push me. So, it feels good.”

Abdullah Mason
 
“My family keeps me focused inside the gym. We all share the same goal, which is to become a world champion. So, we’ll keep working towards that, and eventually it’s going to come.”

Jahi Tucker
 
“Saturday night will be the same old story: domination. In my last fight {against Nikoloz Sekhniashvili}, I wanted to show everything I’ve learned. It helped me get to that level. That last fight just added on to the experience that I’m going to take to championship fights.”

DeAndre Ware
 
“It’s been my dream to fight at the Huntington Center. Jared made this possible, and I’m just looking forward to it. We’re going to display our talent for the city.”

Husam Al Mashhadi
 
“This means a lot to my family. Everybody at home is really excited for me. I’m very excited. Toledo is like my backyard, so I’m looking forward to seeing all the fans come out from Michigan.” 

Tyler McCreary
 
“It feels good to be here. I’ve been working really hard. I appreciate Jared for coming back home. It’s a good feeling to be back in action.”

Saturday, July 1

ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
 

Jared Anderson vs. Charles Martin, 10 rounds, Heavyweights 

Arslanbek Makhmudov vs. Raphael Akpejiori, 10 rounds, Heavyweights 

 
ESPN+ (6:15 p.m. ET/3:15 p.m. PT)

Tiger Johnson vs. Jonathan Montrel, 8 rounds, Junior Welterweights

Jahi Tucker vs. Nicklaus Flaz, 8 rounds, Junior Middleweights

Manchester, United Kingdom (June 29, 2023) With a lifetime of achievements defying the naysayers, Undisputed Super Middleweight World Champion Franchon Crews-Dezurn is experiencing a week like no other.

The ‘Heavy Hitting Diva’ started the week with her highly anticipated debut single ‘Secret Place’ entering the lauded Music Week Commercial Club Charts at #30. The dynamic dance track produced by songwriter C-Rod at Miami’s renowned Criteria Recording Studios has quickly ascended up the charts to currently sit at #19. The single, executive produced by Crews-Dezurn’s manager and CEO of Patriak Records, Peter Kahn, can be heard here.  Patriak Records will also release Crews-Dezurn’ debut album in early 2024. (Kahn was voted the 2022 Boxing Manager of the Year by the Boxing Writers Association of America).

This Saturday, July 1, Crews-Dezurn, (8-1, 2 KOs), caps off her extraordinary week by defending her Undisputed Super Middleweight World Titles against #1 ranked contender Savannah Marshall, (12-1, 10 KOs), at the famed AO Arena in Manchester, England. The fight will be broadcast in the United States on ESPN+ (2:30 p.m. ET). A remarkable fight week feature by Michael Rothstein for ESPN can be viewed here.

Franchon’s musical journey began at 17 years old, appearing on American Idol. Despite being told by Simon Cowell that, “You can’t be good at everything”, Crews-Dezurn has made it her mission to prove him wrong. Having already conquered the world of boxing and accomplished feats unparalleled in the sport’s history, she now sets her sights on fulfilling her lifelong dream as a musical artist. Hailing from Virginia, Crews-Dezurn’s musical influences span various genres, providing her with a versatile and dynamic foundation for her artistic expression

HEAVYWEIGHT GIANTS Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce are all set for a highly anticipated rematch at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, live on TNT Sports.

Tickets go on general sale at midday on Friday 30 June (tomorrow) from AXS.com.

Big Bang Zhang and Juggernaut Joyce first collided in mid-April at the Copper Box Arena, where it was Zhang who left the venue in possession of the WBO Interim Heavyweight World Championship strap.

Referee Howard Foster stopped the fight in the sixth round due to the heavy swelling around the right eye of defending champion Joyce.

The Chinese hero Zhang lived up to his stage name in Stratford, ending the unbeaten professional record of the fellow Olympic silver medallist.

New York-based Zhang, 25-1-1 (20 KOs), turned in a career-best performance in London to elevate himself into challenging the elite band of heavyweights, but first he must once again repel the powerful advances of Joyce, 15-1 (14 KOs), who will be determined to regain his lost property and place himself back at the top of the WBO rankings.

“I created history last time,” said Zhang. “And I believe the best way to inherit history is to create new ones. I look at the rematch as if it was a new fight; I look at Joe Joyce as if I never fought him before. I started from zero and this is the new self.”

“I’m coming back to take back what’s mine,” declared Joyce. “September 2nd I am leaving everything in that ring. No compromises. No underestimating my opponent. Nothing, but a win.

“Last time out I lost my undefeated professional record. It was hard to take. But after the dust settled, all that will do is make me better. I’ve learned lessons. I’m ready. And I am coming for everything.”

“This is a fight with high stakes written all over it,” stated promoter Frank Warren. “The first fight in April was the best heavyweight fight made this year and I am expecting more of the same at the OVO Arena on September 23.

“Joe will acknowledge that Zhilei did a number on him at the Copper Box and he has a lot to work on to put it right. But he knows what he has got to do, and his immediate future depends on him regaining his position as WBO Interim world champion.

“Thankfully, for Joe’s sake, the rotation system for mandatory challenges with the governing bodies means the WBO contender against the unified champion has yet to be called, so victory in September will put Joe right back in the frame to fight whoever emerges victorious out of the current champion Oleksandr Usyk and his next challenger, Daniel Dubois.

“This is why the stakes are so incredibly high for both fighters and I hope and expect that Wembley will be packed to the rafters for such a significant heavyweight match.”

Tickets to see the heavyweight clash between Zhilei Zhang and Joe Joyce at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday 23 September, go on general sale at midday on Friday 30 June from AXS.com.

From 18th July, TNT Sports will be the new name for BT Sport.

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“Thank you Chris and welcome back as we talk about a tremendous fight card on Saturday live on DAZN around the world from Sheffield Arena. A huge domestic match-up in the 140lbs division. The British Champion, Sheffield’s Dalton Smith against the Commonwealth Champion, Liverpool’s Sam Maxwell. It’s a tremendous fight, former Team GB teammates but now with an opportunity to establish themselves on the world stage. This is a great fight card and one of the reasons is because you have so much young talent that is stepping up. We’ve seen some great names in British boxing over the years and it’s good to see so many familiar faces here as well. Former Matchroom fighter, Hall of Fame inductee, the great Carl ‘The Cobra’ Froch. Congratulations Carl. Two-time Featherweight World Champion Leigh Wood in the house. Two-time, two-weight World Champion Terri Harper. Onto Saturday night, as I said so much fantastic young talent here stepping up.”

Dalton Smith:

“My previous fights, obviously I always train hard, I’m a true professional but believe me I’m not underestimating Sam one bit. I’ve wanted this fight for a long time and that’s what it’s brought the best out in me. Physically it’s the best shape I’ve been in. It’s the best camp I’ve had. This fight means a lot to me – I want that British Title for keeps. I don’t feel like there’s any pressure on me – I never put pressure on myself. I’m boxing for myself, that’s it. When boxing is all said and done, it’s what I’ve achieved for myself. This is a big fight for me. I want that British Title for keeps. It’s going to be a special performance on Saturday. Sam is a good fighter. It’s levels, and I believe that’s what is going to show on Saturday night. If you can’t land then your power is a bit useless. I’m not underestimating Sam – this is a big opportunity for him. Where does Sam go after this? He needs to win this fight. This fight has brought the best out of me.”

Sam Maxwell:

I’ve enjoyed fight week so far. It’s been a busy one but I’m really enjoying it. I’m enjoying my whole boxing the last year that I’ve been with Paul Edwards. I’m enjoying it more than I’ve ever enjoyed it. It’s going to bring the best out of me. I feel like I hit hard enough to hurt anyone in the division. That’s what’s going to happen on Saturday if I land clean. I know I can hurt Dalton. The vibe I’m getting from his camp is that he’s looking to walk through me and smash me up. It’s going to be an exciting fight. Eddie has got all of the top 140lbs – it’s a great division to be part of. Beat Dalton on Saturday and I’ll put my name into the hat for some massive fights in the division. I feel like I’ve been underestimated by everyone. It’s about me going in there on Saturday and showing everyone how good I am.”

Pat McCormack:

“First title fight. I won plenty of medals in the amateurs. Olympic silver, World silver, European Games gold, Commonwealth gold. But now it’s time to win some belts as a pro. He’s coming to win, he’s a tough game lad. Fitness doesn’t win you fights. I’m levels above him and it’s going to show on Saturday night. Whatever he’s got to offer I’ve got an answer to. We’ve got a great team around us; Ben Davison, Lee Wylie, Barry Smith. All of the guys in the gym are flying at the minute. There’s not stopping us at the minute. Get this belt won on Saturday and push on from there. We’re looking at bigger and better things. This is the start of the titles.”

Tony Dixon:

“I love it. This is what I do. I’m a fighter. That’s what I come to do, give everyone entertainment. I’m here to do a job. I think it’s going to be a brilliant fight. He hasn’t fought me yet has he.”

Hopey Price:

“The last opponent was a little bit awkward but then again he boxed for a World Title. I fought him in my tenth fight. You can’t please everyone. Some people have said it was a bit boring but it’s given me the bit between my teeth a little bit for this fight. He’s a bit more game and he’ll stand there straight in front of me. I can stand straight in front of him, I can T off. I can just punch his head in gypsy style. The pressure is one now in these sort of fights. It’s not just about winning these fights and cruising through these fights. I really want to show the best of my ability. 100% this fight I’m coming for the knockout. I’m definitely going to take him out.”

James Beech Jnr:

“I’m ready to go now. I’ve been here and I’ve done it. I’m just ready to go. I’ve definitely learnt from it. In the past I’ve got myself hyped up, maybe too hyped up in the past whereas this week I’m just staying relaxed. I’m just treating it as if it’s a normal fight really.”

Junaid Bostan:

“I mean if you get asked questions you’re going to speak aren’t you. I’ve seen bits and bobs from their side saying, ‘he’s talking a good game’, but when you’re getting asked questions you’re going to answer them and you’re going to speak confidently. First of all, Eid Mubarak to all of my brothers and sisters. Inshallah you all have a good day. He mentioned about people pulling out of fights, he’ll never have that issue with me. I got offered the fight, watched a bit of a clip and said, ‘yeah no problem’. I feel like a big fish right now. It was only last year when I was on the Sheffield show and I was on a stool, I was like Eddie sort this out I know I’m not signed but you don’t have to rub it in. Now all of a sudden I’m on the top table. Life comes at you fast. It’s up to me to stay composed, stay switched on and deliver.”

Ryan Amos:

“I’m from the small hall shows. I had a few opportunities, everyone pulled out. I’m just happy that somebody has accepted a fight. I’m ready to go. I always come to fight. Basically I got offered a Midlands Title fight when I didn’t have much experience. I won that fight and just keep getting better and better.”

Lewis Sylvester:

“This is another step up for me. My last fight was another undefeated fighter for the final eliminator. Steffy has done everything in his power to get me to this position. I’m here now and I’m finally ready to show the world what I can do. A win is always good but putting on a great performance is even better. Getting a win, this could change my life and it could change my career completely. Hull is a massive boxing city and I’m ready to put it back on the map.”

Adam Cope:

“I can’t wait. I’ve been fit for a while and then this opportunity came up. I’m ready to step in and take it. I think a lot of people in boxing know about me but now it’s time to show everyone else what I can do. I think I can do everything really; box, punch, come forward and mix it up and work them out when I’m in there. I’ve got loads of support coming and I’m not going to let them down.”

Beatriz Ferreira:

“I’m coming from the World Championship and I’m really happy to be here for my third professional fight. I’ve prepared really well, coming from the World Title victory my adrenaline is at a 1000%. Preparation has been really good, I’m very confident and really looking forward to the fight. Yes I am highly determined. What I want is titles, I want belts. Olympic boxing is very different, the preparation is very different but I am really prepared for this. What I want is to collect belts. I am ready for it.”

Karla Ramos Zamora:

“I am focused on this next fight. I’ve got a lot of professional experience. Beatrice comes in with a lot of Olympic experience so everything is in place to be a really good fight on Saturday and I hope we have a clean fight and I hope it is a really good fight.”

Nico Leivars:

“It has been a frustrating few months. It’s been months where I’ve still been in the gym training hard, money in the bank if you want to say. I’m hoping for a good performance on Saturday night and you’ll see a lot of improvement. The whole gym is flying and it’s definitely bringing the best out of all of us. We’re all picking things up when we’re training together and sparring. Even with this weekend we’ve got three on the card and we’ve all been looking good in the gym. It’ll be three wins again on Saturday.”

Cory O’Regan:

“The Leeds thing I’ve done twice. This is my third time on a Matchroom card. I believe each one has been a little bit better of a performance. Hopefully for the third one, I plan on doing the same thing. In Leeds, I’m known around that way. Fighting in another city is good for my profile and building. Any opportunity you get to come on a show like this is one you have to take. It’s the one you want to look good on. I know what you guys can offer. I know what you can do for boxers, the opportunities and everything. It’s about me getting on the right shows at the right time and progressing in my career.”

Undefeated Super-Bantamweight slickster Shabaz Masoud has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. 

One of the brightest talents in Britain, Shabaz has won all eleven on his professional contests since turning over at the Bolton Whites Hotel with a third round TKO win over Stefan Sashev back in May 2018.

The 27-year-old from Stoke is trained and managed by Ben Davison out of the Ben Davison Performance Centre in Harlow, Essex alongside two-time Featherweight World Champion Leigh Wood and rising Super-Welterweight star Pat McCormack.

‘Maverick’ (11-0, 4 KOs) picked up the WBA Intercontinental Title last time out in November by stopping fellow unbeaten rival Jack Bateson in the twelfth and final round of their clash at the Utilita Arena Sheffield. 

Masoud, a former Sports Development student at Staffordshire University, hopes to follow in the footsteps of Prince Naseem Hamed and Amir Khan as a new wave of British-Asian fighters rise to the top of the sport.

“Alhamdulillah this is a huge step in the right direction for my career,” said Masoud. “Inshallah I’m a future World Champion and Matchroom have put together the path to make that happen. I want to thank Ben, Eddie and Frank for this opportunity. I’ve worked my whole life to seize it with both hands and that’s what I will be doing!

“To get the deal over the line there was a lot of back and forth. I wanted to be at the right place and I feel like this is the right time as well. I just can’t wait for a fight date now. I want to show the world what I’m about. It’s time to shine now. 

“Training down at the Ben Davison Performance Centre, a lot of the guys there are signed with Matchroom. We all bounce off each other, we learn from each other and I feel like you’ve got to surround yourself with winners. We’re all coming to do big things. We want to be the best gym in Britain.

“When fans tune in to watch me live on DAZN all around the world they should expect slickness, beautiful boxing, power and speed. You’re going to get a bit of everything. I want to bring those big nights up to Stoke. Don’t blink.”

“I’m incredibly excited about signing one of the brightest Super-Bantamweight contenders in Britain.” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “He is a special talent with a big future in the sport. Ben Davison is very confident that Shabaz has what it takes to become a multi-weight World Champion. He showed what he’s capable of in his last fight, impressively stopping the undefeated Jack Bateson in the final round to pick up his first pro title. There’s plenty more to come from Shabaz and I can’t wait to get this journey started.”

“I’m excited for this partnership,” said Ben Davison. “Shabaz is a special talent with remarkable potential, he has a great blend of style with plenty of substance. Say hello to Matchroom and DAZN’s soon to be World Champion. Shabaz will underachieve if he doesn’t become a World Champion, if not a multi-weight World Champion. 

“Shabaz is a very good student and he’s great to worth with. He’s a dedicated lad, travels a long way down here to the gym in Essex to work. He has the type of style that you don’t regularly see from the UK. He’s aggressive at times, he’s versatile, he’s slick, flamboyant and he has a little habit of showboating here and there which we’re not too keen on! There’s a lot he can offer.”

You can follow Masoud’s journey on Twitter: @ShabzMasoud and Instagram: shabaz_maverick_masoud

LAS VEGAS – June 29, 2023 – Fighters competing on the Errol Spence Jr. vs. Terence Crawford SHOWTIME PPV undercard on Saturday, July 29 previewed their respective matchups during a virtual press conference Thursday before they step into the ring in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

The pay-per-view telecast 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, rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos taking on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator and unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan dueling the power-punching Viktor Faust in the 10-round 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 fighters had to say Thursday:

ISAAC CRUZ

“I’m training hard as always and zeroing in on Giovanni Cabrera’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s an honor to be the co-main event of a fight that will be remembered forever in boxing lore.

“My plan is to go out there and put on a show for everyone watching. I’ll be ready. One round or 12 rounds, however long it lasts, it’s gonna be a great fight.

“I’m gonna put on a show against Cabrera. It’s all part of my effort to close every door that Gervonta has available to escape from facing me again. I want to prove that I’m the best at 135 pounds.

“I’m really excited to win this fight so I can get to the next level of what I want to achieve. Giovanni is a quality fighter and he’s undefeated for a reason. I’m definitely not overlooking him, because he’s earned this shot.

“The fans are extra motivation for me. I want to keep giving them spectacular fights. It fills me with joy and pride to see their support. I promise every single fan that this fight is gonna be worth the price of admission.

“He may think he’s faced fighters like me in the gym, but he better be ready, because facing the real thing is a lot different.

“I’m here to show everyone that I’m no social media fighter like some others are. I’m a dog, I’m a warrior and my ceiling is not even close to being hit yet.”

GIOVANNI CABRERA

“I’m very happy to be here. I’ve finally arrived at the stage I’ve wanted to be at my entire career. Isaac Cruz is a great Mexican fighter and I’m a first-generation Mexican here in the U.S., so it’s gonna be fireworks. I think this might steal the show. I’m ready for my best performance yet.

“I believe he’s the best opponent I’ve faced. He has a strong will and a lot of fire. My plan is to meet that fire with my own.

“Cruz got his position from having a close fight with Gervonta Davis, so if he gets that merit, then if I defeat him convincingly, I’ll be right at the top too. I’ve shared the ring with his promoter Manny Pacquiao, so if I can dance with ‘Pac-Man’, I can dance with a ‘Pitbull’.

“My activity is definitely an advantage. I’ve been sparring great fighters at Wild Card Boxing Gym and I’m keeping sharp. This gym has the best fighters from all around the world.

“I’ve seen many examples of fighters with Isaac’s style. I’ve been able to out-class them. That’s the goal on July 29.

“I promise that we’re gonna leave Mexican boxing and American boxing on a high pedestal. You’re gonna see two warriors go at it and it’s gonna be fitting of the stage that we’re on.

“This is my time. Isaac Cruz is in trouble. I will be ready on July 29.”

JESUS RAMOS JR.

“This is a huge opportunity for me and I’m very blessed. I’m working extremely hard. I’m facing a tough opponent who always comes to fight. I know he’s gonna be there and ready to fight for the whole 12 rounds.

“I think with a win over Sergio Garcia I’m top five, or at least top 10 in the division. I’ve been beating top guys and looking impressive against them. I want to earn my shot and these are the fights I have to take.

“The goal is a knockout, but I’m a more mature fighter now. I don’t put that pressure on myself. I just go out there and perform and do what I do best. I work hard every day and I have to demonstrate that. If the opportunity comes, I know how to finish.

“This is gonna be an exciting fight. He’s a fighter who comes forward and he’s gonna be there all night. That’s the kind of fight I like. I can brawl if I have to.

“As fighters we grow with each fight and mature. I’ve matured with every fight and I’ve acknowledged my mistakes. I go back into the gym and work on getting better and that’s what I’m gonna show on July 29.

“I’m motivated by any doubt that I receive. If they don’t consider me the top of the division yet, then it’s because I haven’t earned it. I’m going to keep working hard. A lot of people thought my last fight was a 50/50 matchup, and I went out there and showed that it wasn’t the case.”

SERGIO GARCIA

“I’m training in the U.K. with a new trainer in Angel Fernandez and we’ve been working really hard. I’m facing a young opponent who’s gonna give it his all, but I have the edge in experience and I’m gonna take advantage on July 29.

“I’ve been feeling great with my new trainer and the chemistry is outstanding. But this is really about me having a third chance in the U.S. I know that if this passes by me, I might not get another opportunity.

“I know that Ramos wants to show out and make it to the top of the division. I just have to focus on executing what I do in the ring. I’ve shown that I have courage, but now I have to show my skills as well.  

“I can’t give away my secrets, but I have Jesus well scouted. I’ve been following him and I respect him. I know he’s been watching me too and that’s gonna make this a great fight.

“I may possess some tools that Jose doesn’t have. My fight against Tony Harrison was not my best night. I thought my fight with Sebastian Fundora could have gone either way. I’m going to take that experience and use it to come out on top.”

GURGEN HOVHANNISYAN

“My training is going really well. I’m very happy to be the opening fight on SHOWTIME PPV. I’m training really hard for July 29.

“I’ve known Viktor Faust since the amateurs and I looked up to him then. I’m very familiar with what he can do in the ring and I’m preparing to put on a great show. I’m very confident that I’m going to open this pay-per-view with an excellent performance.

“Spence vs. Crawford is gonna be the fight of the decade and that makes this a big step for me. A lot of people will be watching my performance and it’s very important for me to be on this card and perform well.

Boxing is more of a mental sport. I’ve learned a lot in that regard from being in the gym and sparring top fighters. With it being my fifth fight, that’s only a number to me. I’m prepared for this. It doesn’t matter to me how experienced my opponent is. I’m going to take on the fights with the best opponents.

“We do a lot more than 10 rounds of sparring when I’m training with Joe Goossen in the gym, so I’m not worried about going the distance if I have to. I’m more than ready.

“I’m not going to force the knockout, but if it comes, it comes. I’m just going to deliver beautiful boxing for everyone watching.”

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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 rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator. Kicking off the pay-per-view, unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan will duel the power-punching Viktor Faust in a 10-round matchup.

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/.

NEW YORK, NY (June 28, 2023) Tomorrow night, standout prospect Kurt Scoby (11-0, 9 KOs) will enter the ring for the first time since signing a multi-year promotional deal with DiBella Entertainment. Scoby will face Hank Lundy in the eight-round main event at Sony Hall in Times Square, New York City. 

When he steps into the ring on Thursday, among the many eyes who will tune in to see him embark on this next chapter in his career are a multitude of foster parents and additional trainers and mentors that Kurt Scoby has called his village over the course of his 27 years.  

Growing up in Duarte, CA, Scoby endured a hellish childhood, rife with abuse and neglect. He threw himself into sports, becoming a standout in basketball, football, and eventually boxing, craving the mentorship and stability that being an athlete offered. At 12 years old, after one too many close calls at the hands of his family, Scoby entered the foster system, determined to not become a statistic like so many of his peers. 

Scoby would live in 14 different foster homes over the years, sometimes for two weeks, sometimes for two months or more. He would lose his mother, who passed away from Lupus shortly after he entered the system. Much like the proverbial baggage he carried throughout these homes, he rarely unpacked his things, knowing that a move to the next foster home could be minutes away. He would grow to depend heavily on his intuition as he struggled to stay out of trouble, a skill that would come in handy as his boxing career developed.

Throughout his childhood, his coaches kept an eye out for him, particularly Joe Lopez, a football coach who would pick up Scoby from the motel he stayed in to take him to football games at the local college. Lopez considered adopting Scoby, but sadly he lost his life in a motorcycle accident when Scoby was 14. It was yet another tragic loss for the young man, who by now was learning to think with his head and not his heart.

Scoby first stepped into a boxing gym at 10 years old. Fighting in the streets was a way of life for the youngster, and while en route to an after-school brawl, he heard the ding of a boxing bell. His curiosity was piqued. He quickly fell in love with boxing, and would go on to amass an impressive amateur record of 130-20, including a win at the 2019 California Golden Gloves tournament.

In 2017, Scoby’s life changed forever when his daughter, Leo Noelle, was born, giving him a purpose beyond himself, and even more motivation to be successful.

Despite receiving a scholarship to Fresno State University for football as a running back, followed by three years studying criminal justice at Azusa Pacific University, Scoby continued to fight, ultimately leaving football to pursue his boxing career.

In 2020, at the height of the Covid pandemic, Scoby caught a flight to New York City for $11 to begin a new life on the East Coast. He quickly began training out of Brooklyn’s Gleason’s Gym, under the tutelage of head coach Don Saxby, and made his professional debut in September of that year, earning a first-round knockout against Pablo Luna.

In February 2023, he fought on a DiBella Entertainment-promoted event in Topeka, KS, dropping John Mannu twice en route to a second-round knockout, impressing both DiBella and viewers watching Showtime’s “ShoBox” series.

“I am hugely excited about signing Kurt Scoby. He has the talent and punching power to become a star. Everyone will love him as they watch his career progress,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “He is an intelligent, well-spoken young man who has overcome every obstacle that has been put in front of him, while establishing longstanding relationships with everyone that has crossed his path. Scoob looks like a walking, talking action figure and has the charisma and smarts to succeed both inside and outside of the ring. His manager, Daniel Gonzalez, and I will work together to bring Kurt the right opportunities to reach his full potential and become the champion I know he is capable of becoming.”

“There’s no ‘side of the street’ talk when signing with DiBella Entertainment. Lou is a Hall of Fame promoter who has proven that he can make the big fights,” said Scoby. “Signing with DiBella makes all the sense in the world in my mind. I am very excited to work with DBE and am confident that their team, along with my trainers and management, will guide me toward achieving my dreams of being a world titleholder.”

“Lou DiBella and DiBella Entertainment are true professionals in the sport of boxing,” said Scoby’s manager, Daniel Gonzalez, Esq. “I know that, as a team, we will work together to make sure Kurt Scoby has the storied career that we envision for him. Lou’s track record for making boxing stars in New York City is undeniable. We are excited for this partnership and know that Kurt is going to be a force in the 140lb. weight division.”

If sports were a lifeboat during Scoby’s childhood, boxing is now his ship to command. When he begins his journey with DiBella Entertainment this Thursday at Sony Hall, he does it with the support of the village that helped raise him, and the poise and confidence of a fighter who has walked through fire and not only lived, but thrived

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO (June 28, 2023) – Golden Boy Fight Night: Mexico Edition has been slated for a return on Saturday, July 15 with a spectacular main event featuring No. 3 WBC-ranked Alan “Rey David” Picasso (24-0-1, 13 KOs) fighting in his hometown of Mexico City against Sabelo Ngebinyana (15-6-1, 11 KOs) of Cape Town, South Africa. The 10-round WBC Super Bantamweight Eliminator clash, presented in association with Zanfer Boxing, will be broadcast on Azteca TV in Mexico and worldwide on DAZN. 

Picasso has jumped the ranks in the past three years having defeated strong rivals such as Víctor Proa, Alexander Mejía, Edixon Pérez, Luis Millán and Kevin Villanueva. With a powerful liver hook, a strong left hand and the footwork to match, Picasso is hungry to prove to the world that he is world championship ready.

“I am ready to face the most important fight of my career. Sabelo is a strong, accurate and experienced fighter. But through my 25 fights, I have acquired qualities to be able to take this fight,” said Alan Picasso. “I am happy for the opportunity. Thank you Fernando Beltrán, Oscar De La Hoya and DAZN for placing their trust in me. After July 15, no one will be able to hide that I am the strongest super bantamweight in Mexico, and I will go for the world title. Nery, Inoue and Fulton should take care of themselves, because Picasso is in the division.”

Ngebinyana is familiar with stepping onto rival territory as the underdog and securing a victory. He has faced some of the strongest super bantamweights of his country. He has the endurance, strong chin, and upper left that can potentially prove to be challenging to Picasso. 

“It will be my first time in Mexico and the only thing I think about is that I will be the No. 2 mandatory of the World Boxing Council once again. I respect David a lot, he is a great boxer, complicated and knows how to work round by round, but I am not going to leave anything to the judges,” said Sabelo Ngebinyana. “I don’t know if they are underestimating me, but I come to do my job. I worked very hard and although I have defeats in my record, this will be my greatest victory. Thank Zanfer and Golden Boy for the opportunity, I will not let them down.”

Information on the complete undercard will be announced soon. 

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Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN is presented by Golden Boy 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

Toledo’s knockout king Jared “The Real Big Baby” Anderson (14-0, 14 KOs) returns home to headline a 10-round main event against former world champion “Prince” Charles Martin (29-3-1, 26 KOs).

Fighting in the main event for the first time as a pro, 23-year-old Anderson has yet to go beyond the sixth round, having stopped five of his opponents in the first round and another five in the second round. In 2020, he garnered global attention as Tyson Fury’s primary sparring partner, but he is now carving his own path as he prepares to face the top names of the division. Martin, a 37-year-old St. Louis native, captured the IBF heavyweight world title in January 2016 with a third-round TKO over Vyacheslav Glazkov. Martin is coming off a fourth-round knockout against Devin Vargas last September in Los Angeles.

Rounding out the heavyweight doubleheader is the 10-round co-feature with Montreal-based wrecking ball Arslanbek Makhmudov (16-0, 15 KOs) taking on Nigeria’s Raphael Akpejiori. (15-0, 14 KOs).

The undercard streams exclusively on ESPN+.

Calling the action will be Andre Ward, a Hall of Famer and 2004 U.S. Olympic gold medalist, and Timothy Bradley Jr., a Class of 2023 Hall of Famer.  Serving as reporters will be Mark Kriegel, Bernardo Osuna, and Crystina Poncher.

Original Programming:

Prior to the event, ESPN will air RELENTLESS: Jared Anderson, 30-minute candid look at the next great American heavyweight Jared Anderson ahead of his homecoming in Toledo, OH. Fight fans will get to know “The Real Big Baby” before he reps “The Glass City” in his first-career headliner against former IBF Heavyweight world champion Charles Martin (29-3-1, 26 KOs). Still just 23 years young, the undefeated 2021 “Prospect of the Year” Anderson holds a perfect 100% finish rate with 14 knockouts in 14 professional victories, which he looks to keep intact in his main event debut.

RELENTLESS: Jared Anderson (All Times ET)

ESPN.com

Out Friday: The Most Intriguing Tier of the Heavyweight Division: The Next Generation, by Mike Coppinger

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Anderson vs. Martin

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).   

DALLAS – June 28, 2023 – Today, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and Real Fight Inc. (RFI) announced that undefeated lightweight Ashton “H20” Sylve (9-0, 8KOs) will face off with the much more experienced veteran lightweight William “Baby Face” Dos Santos Silva (30-4, 18 KOs) on the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz pay-per-view card live from the American Airlines Center on August 5th in Dallas, TX. Sylve is coming off a dominating win over Adam Kipenga as the main event of MVP’s inaugural Most Valuable Prospects event, while Silva is fresh off a TKO victory over Diego Gonzalo Luque. The two will take the ring in an action packed eight-round matchup contested at 135 lbs. The Paul vs. Diaz pay-per-view will be distributed globally by DAZN PPV. In the US and Canada in addition to DAZN PPV, Paul vs. Diaz will be available on all major cable and satellite pay-per-view providers. All tickets can be purchased at https://www.ticketmaster.com/mvp-jake-paul-v-nate-diaz-dallas-texas-08-05-2023/event/0C005EA581B12549

Sylve, the first prospect signed by MVP and ESPN Ringside’s 2022 prospect of the year, has knocked out eight of his nine opponents and has not shied away from fighting more experienced names in the ring, leveraging his formidable pound-for-pound power and fast twitch agility to deliver decisive victories in each of his professional bouts. The Long Beach, California native was a gifted amateur who turned pro at 16 with over 100 wins and 10 national titles to his credit. Sylve first rose to fame as an eight-year-old when a training video made by his father, Ivan, went viral, leading to an invite to Floyd Mayweather’s storied gym in Las Vegas.

“It has always been a dream of mine to fight among legends and shine under the brightest lights,” said Ashton Sylve. “MVP has continually given me the opportunity to do so, and I couldn’t be more excited about stepping back into the ring in what promises to be the event of the year. “I’ve been grinding like crazy to get ready for this fight, and trust me, my technique and skills will be on full display on August 5th. Dallas, get ready ’cause I’m coming for you! See you soon!”

Silva, a Brazilian native from Sao Paolo, and current resident of St. Petersburg, FL, holds the impressive title of former WBO Latino welterweight and WBO Latino lightweight champion. In 2016, Silva put his lightweight championship on the line, but was defeated by the powerful Felix Verdejo, but has since won a regional belt for the IBO. Silva continues to fight the best in the game with only four losses in his 17 year career by Verdejo, Arnold Barboza, Cletus Seldin, and two-weight world champion Teofimo Lopez who all had a combined record of 75-1 at the time of their fight against Silva. Silva steps into the ring with Ashton Sylve coming off two straight wins, most recently a TKO against Diego Gonzalo Luque. He is training under Jim McLaughlin, a member of the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame and is promoted by Reyes Boxing and Fire Fist Promotions. 

“There will be fireworks during this fight,” shared William Silva. “I’m fighting for my family and country.”

Most Valuable Promotions, founded by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, and Real Fight, Inc., founded by Diaz, are partnering to bring Paul vs. Diaz to global audiences. The strategic partnership will combine the star power and international reach of both fighters to promote the year’s biggest fight. The event will be distributed globally by DAZN PPV. In the US and Canada in addition to DAZN PPV, Paul vs. Diaz will be available on all major cable and satellite pay-per-view providers.

“Ashton continues to impress and entertain at such a young age and will bring his unique combination of knockout power and agility to the ring on August 5th,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions. “This fight represents his toughest test to date against a battle tested and dangerous Silva, who has only lost to some of the best fighters in the game. Sylve vs Silva is just one of many thrilling bouts on this card that promises to keep fans in the arena and at home on the edge of their seats, and we are thankful to our partners Real Fight, Inc., DAZN, and the American Airlines Center for their consistent hard work as we continue to build out an unforgettable night.”

For more information, follow on Twitter via @MostVPromotions, @realfightinc, @AshtonSylveh2o, @WillBabyFace, and @DAZNBoxing or on Instagram via @ashtonsylveh2o, @willbabyface, @MostValuablePromotions, and @DAZNBoxing.

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.

About Real Fight, Inc.

Founded by mixed martial arts legend Nate Diaz, in 2022, Real Fight Inc. promotes exactly what the name suggests — the fights people want to see, featuring the realest fighters from all over the world. Since his departure from the UFC, Diaz is extending his business empire with a true all-around combat experience that will focus on boxing, MMA, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The inaugural event under the Real Fight, Inc. banner is set to take place on August 5, 2023, when Diaz makes his long-awaited professional boxing debut against Jake Paul at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.  The card will also feature RFI fighters, Chris Avila, Alan Sanchez, Jose Aguayo and Luciano Ramos

About DAZN:

DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK.? Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, J.League, La Liga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.?

DAZN is the NFL’s global partner and, from the 2023 season, will be the only place for fans around the world to watch every NFL match through the NFL Game Pass International add-on subscription. DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F.? DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans.?

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DAZN is reimagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialize, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN.?

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles, ensuring that fans have access to a ground-breaking rights catalog and slate of incredible content. In the UK and globally, DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including PlayStation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and can find the app on their iPhone, iPad, and android mobile devices. DAZN is available as an Amazon Channel on Amazon Prime TV and can be viewed on Channel 429 on Sky in the UK and Ireland.  

DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?www.dazngroup.com.??

About American Airlines Center:

Designed by architectural wizard David M. Schwarz and Dallas based HKS, Inc., American Airlines Center is considered one of the nation’s top arenas. Since opening its doors in 2001, the Center has been setting the precedent for sporting and live entertainment events. Bringing in a wide variety of big name shows as well as being home of both the Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars, American Airlines Center consistently displays its unique versatility. Billboard Magazine named American Airlines Center the 6th busiest arena in the world in 2022.

QUINCY, Mass. (June 28, 2023) – East meets West! On August 19^th on the “Pandemonium at The Palladium” pro boxing card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), a pair of unbeaten boxers, James “Pitbull” Perkins (12-0-1, 9 KOs) and Steve “The Savage” Sumpter (8-0, 7 KOs), put their sterling records on the line at The Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Perkins vs. Sumpter will be the eight-round main event for the vacant International Boxing Association (IBA) Super Middleweight Championship.

“Pandemonium at The Palladium” will be streamed live on www.bxngtv.com.

Perkins is a gravedigger from Lynn, which is located on the east coast of the Bay State, while Sumpter hails from Pittsfield in Western Massachusetts. they will be fighting in Central Mass., in Worcester.

It’s so rare in boxing today that unbeaten prospects square off against each other, rather than take the less risky route to build-up records.

“I am excited to be hosting my first show in Worcester at the historic Palladium,” GCP president Chris Traietti said. “The Palladium hosted a bunch of unforgettable events, and this is going to be added to the list.”

An old saying in boxing is that styles make fights. If that’s the case, Perkins vs. Sumpter has the potential to be an instant classic, because Perkins is a seek-and-destroy fighter and Sumpter a solid boxer-puncher.

Perkins, 30, fought to a draw in his 2019 pro debut and he’s won his last 12 fights in a row, including a four-round knockout of Larry Smith this past June 30.

“I’m looking forward to this fight with Sumpter,” Perkins said. “I think it’s going to be my toughest test so far and I welcome the challenge. I think it’s going to be a fun fight night for the fans as well.”

The 29-year-old Sumpter moved up in weight last November, capturing the vacant Massachusetts light heavyweight title by taking an eight-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Edet Mkpanam (8-0). Sumpter recently knocked out Miguel Angel Suarez in the opening round of his most recent fight.

“I think this fight is a great opportunity,” Sumpter remarked. “Another chance at fighting yet another undefeated fighter early in my career just makes me go even harder than I did before. To be headlining a good distance away from home is still a good feeling. I have a lot of supporters and I know they’ll make the trip regardless.

“I don’t know a lot about Perkins. I’ve seen him fight once and I wasn’t impressed. I think he’s a pretty good fighter, but I don’t think he has what it takes to come out on top.”

Other fighters slated to be in action on “Pandemonium at The Palladium” include two undefeated Holyoke boxers, Massachusetts Welterweight Champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (11-0, 6 KOs) and super welterweight Carlos Castillo (7-0, 4 KOs), two unbeaten Springfield fighters, super featherweight Isaiah “Baby Warrior” Cruz (6-0, 4 KOs) and (his brother) super lightweight Calixto Cruz (2-0, 0 KOs), and former celebrated amateur Felix Parrilla (7-0, 6 KOs), the New Haven (CT) featherweight.

Additional fights and fighters will soon be announced.

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.

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

New York, New York, June 6, 2023 – Undefeated New Yorker Kurt Scoby will face his toughest test to date when he goes up against battle tested and Philly Tough Hammerin’ Hank Lundy in an eight-round super lightweight match-up in the June 29 main event at Sony Hall.

The fiull card, presented by Boxing Insider, will be streamed live, with no paywall, beginning at 7:30, at BoxingInsider.com

Tickets, priced at $95, $125, $200 and $325, are available at Ticketweb here

This edition of Broadway Boxing will also air on SNY on a delayed basis.

The card . . . 

Main Event – 8 Rounds – Super Lightweights

Kurt Scoby, 143.1 lbs. (11-0, 9 KOs) from New York, NY

Hammerin’ Hank Lundy, 139.8 lbs. (31-13, 14 KOs), Philadelphia, PA

8 Rounds – Super Welterweights

Brian Ceballo, 154.8 lbs. (14-1, 7 KOs), Brooklyn, NY

Mitch Louis-Charles, 153.2 lbs (7-3-2, 4 KOs), Quebec, Canada

8 Rounds – Super Lightweights

Terell Bostic, 139.8 lbs. (7-1, 1 KO), Wyandanch, NY

Matthew “Lefty Gunz” Gonzalez, 140.2 lbs. (12-0-1, 8KOs), Ridgewood, NY

6 Rounds – Weltwerweights

Arnold Gonzalez, 150.6 lbs. (11-0, 6 KOs), New York, NY

Alejandro Munera, 146.2 lbs. (8-7-4, 7 KOs), , Medellin, Colombia

Opener – 4 Rounds – Super Featherweights

Raymond “The Scientist” Cuadrado, 130.8 lbs. (7-0, 3 KOs), Ridgewood, NY

Yeuri “Dinamita” Andujar, 131.4 lbs. (5-5-1, 3 KOs), San Cristobal, Dominican Republic

PHILADELPHIA, PA (June 28, 2023) – Undefeated cruiserweight Muhsin Cason (11-0, 8 KOs) has his sight set on taking his career to the next level this year. Cason has emerged as a rising prospect and envisions captuing a regional title by the end of the year.

Muhsin Cason has honed his skills and demonstrated his immense potential in the ring. Advised by renowned figure in the boxing industry Amer Abdallah, Cason is ready to take on new challenges and make a mark in the competitive world of the cruiserweight division.

Cason, The brother of former two-time heavyweight world champion, Hasim Rahman said, “I’m ready to take my career to new heights.” He added, “With each fight, I have improved in every area of my game. The experience I’ve gained in the ring, at the gym, and fighting top-level guys has given me the confidence to compete at the next level.”

Signed to Home Team Management, Cason made his Saudi Arabia debut, in February of this year. Scoring a first-round knockout against Taryel Jafarov (21-6, 19 KOs), the pair squared off at Diriyah Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With Abdallah guiding his career, Cason, who goes by the moniker “The Muslim Boxer,” could be the next big superstar in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Abdallah, who’s the driving force of boxing in the region said, “Muhsin’s performance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was nothing short of extraordinary.” Abdallah continued, “His triumph over a formidable opponent in such a high-profile venue showcased his ability to perform under pressure and he rose to the occasion. With this huge win, Muhsin has positioned himself as a force to be reckoned with in the cruiserweight division. He has a massive online presence. His niche social media following has now captured the attention of boxing fans globally.”

Muhsin Cason is determined to continue his ascent to the top of the cruiserweight division. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2023, his unbeaten record and superb power have garnered significant attention. He intends to seize every opportunity to showcase his skills on the global stage.

“Fighting in Saudi Arabia was a dream come true for me,” continued Cason. “The plan is to continue making a name for myself in the United States and Saudi Arabia. I want to be known worldwide as a fighter that carries himself with a warrior spirit and integrity. Every fight is an opportunity to become special. I plan to take advantage of every situation.”

Cason’s trusted advisor, Amer Abdallah, contined to express his confidence in his protege, stating, “Muhsin Cason possesses immense talent and a hunger for success that is unmatched. We have big plans for him this year, and we are excited to see him rise to the challenges that lie ahead. Expect great things from Muhsin in 2023.”

10 Rounds Super Fly – Main Event

Pedro ‘Pedrin’ Guevara, 115.5 lbs. 39-3, 22 KOs, Mazatlan, Sinaloa

Miguel ‘Joyita’ Herrera, 115.1 lbs. 22-5-5, 8 KOs, Valladolid, Yucatan

Guevara is a former WBC World Light Flyweight Champion with two successful defenses. He also was WBC Silver light flyweight champion prior to winning the world title. He has not lost since 2017, winning nine consecutive fights. Herrera is counting on a victory to get him back on the road to title contention.

8 Rounds Super Bantamweights

Alexis “El Chapito” Molina, 117.7 lbs. 8-0-2 KO’s, Culiacan, Sinaloa

Jesus Ivan “Rafaguita” Mercado, 116.4 lbs. 5-0-1 4 KO’s, Nogales, Sonora, Mexico

10 Rounds Bantamweights – Opener

Juan Ramirez “Tubo” Marquez, 121.5 lbs. 15-6, 8 KOs, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico

Nazario “Pantera” Castro, 120.8 lbs. 10-2-1, 5 KO’s, Angostura, Sinaloa                                  

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About ProBoxTV: ProBox TV is a digital subscription service which gives fans exclusive access to ProBox TV Content including live streaming of fights and on-demand videos. You can also watch daily talk shows with Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri. ProBox TV can be accessed using your favorite streaming devices, including mobile devices, or any personal computer. ProBox TV is a global product and available in all countries.

Fact: Kissimmee, located in Central Florida has the largest Puerto Rican population of any region in Florida and the fastest-growing Puerto Rican population in the country.

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Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a classic striker versus grappler matchup in the bantamweight division, as No. 3 ranked contender Holly Holmfaces off with No. 10 Mayra Bueno Silva.In the co-main event, middleweights look to steal the show as Albert Duraev locks horns with Junyong Park. 

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: HOLM vs. BUENO SILVA will take place Saturday, July 15 at UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The entire event will air on ESPN, ESPN Deportes & ESPN+ (English and Spanish) with the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. The prelims will begin at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

Former UFC bantamweight champion Holm (15-6, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) looks to build another win streak and earn her way back into the title conversation. Among the most credentialed strikers in UFC history, she holds dominant victories over Ronda Rousey, Irene Aldana and Raquel Pennington. Holm now has her sights set on defending her spot in the rankings by becoming the first person to stop Bueno Silva.

Bueno Silva (10-2-1, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) plans to earn the biggest victory of her career in her first UFC main event. An exciting submission specialist who isn’t afraid to mix it up, Bueno Silva has secured stoppages over Gillian Robertson, Lina Lansberg and Stephanie Egger. She now intends to keep her momentum going with a statement performance against Holm.

Duraev (16-4, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Grozny, Russia) returns to action determined to show he can compete with the top of the middleweight division. The winner of 11 of his last 12 bouts, he holds UFC victories over Roman Kopylov and Chidi Njokuani. Duraev now strives to snap Park’s hot streak and set himself up for a run up the rankings.

Always entertaining Park (16-5, fighting out of Seoul, South Korea) aims to earn the longest win streak of his UFC career with another signature finish. A well-rounded competitor, Park has impressed with wins over Eryk Anders, Marc-Andre Barriault and Denis Tiuliulin. He now looks to deliver another crowd-pleasing outing that will put the Top 15 on notice.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• Walt Harris (13-10 1NC, fighting out of Birmingham, Ala.) returns to the Octagon to face Josh Parisian (15-6, fighting out of Howell, Mich.) at heavyweight
• A featherweight bout sees Norma Dumont (9-2, fighting out of Minas Gerais, Brazil) face Chelsea Chandler (5-1, fighting out of Stockton, Calif.)
• Ottman Azaitar (13-1, fighting out of Rabat, Morocco) aims for another finish when he battles Francisco Prado (11-1, fighting out of Santa Fe, Argentina) at lightweight
• Terrance McKinney (13-5, fighting out of Spokane, Wash.) seeks another highlight-reel finish when he locks horns with Nazim Sadykhov (8-1, fighting out of Brooklyn, N.Y.) in a lightweight tilt
• Exciting featherweights collide as Tucker Lutz (12-3, fighting out of Reisterstown, Md.) matches up with Melsik Baghdasaryan (7-2, fighting out of Glendale, Calif.)
• Strawweight action sees Viktoriia Dudakova (6-0, fighting out of Volgograd Oblast, Russia) face off with Istela Nunes (6-4 1NC, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)
• Austin Lingo (9-2, fighting out of Mesquite, Texas) and Melquizael Costa (19-6, fighting out of Para, Brazil) look to return to the winner’s circle in a featherweight contest
• Evan Elder (7-2, fighting out of Hillsboro, Miss.) meets Genaro Valdez (10-2, fighting out of Baja California, Mexico) in a lightweight bout
• Tyson Nam (21-13-1, fighting out of Wahiawa, Hawaii) plans to spoil the UFC debut of undefeated Azat Maksum (16-0, fighting out of Almatinskaia Oblast, Kazakhstan) at flyweight
• Grappling specialist Alex Munoz (6-2, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) and Carl Deaton (17-6 2NC, fighting out of Mt. Pleasant, Mich.) clash at lightweight
• Ashlee Evans-Smith (6-5, fighting out of Santa Ana, Calif.) and Ailin Perez (7-2, fighting out of Entre Rios, Argentina) look to leave it all in the Octagon in a bantamweight bout

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage. Please click here to apply for media credentials to the event.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 233 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s active fighter roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global sports and entertainment company Endeavor and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

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).   

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.

Las Vegas – The 11^th Annual UFC International Fight Week^™ takes place from Monday, July 3, through Sunday, July 9, with numerous events taking place throughout Las Vegas, including in the Las Vegas Convention Center – South Hall, T-Mobile Arena, and Resorts World Las Vegas.

UFC International Fight Week is highlighted by the prestigious UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and its fully interactive, two-day fan experience, UFC X. The week-long celebration is anchored by the highly anticipated UFC^Ò 290: VOLKANOVSKI vs. RODRIGUEZ, presented by Modelo, which takes place on Saturday, July 8, at T-Mobile Arena. Tickets for UFC 290 are available via AXS.

On Thursday, July 6, UFC hosts the 2023 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, presented by Toyo Tires^Ò, at 7 p.m. at T-Mobile Arena. Hosted by Jon Anik, the annual ceremony honors contributors and athletes that helped shape UFC and left an indelible mark on the sport of mixed martial arts. Tickets to the induction ceremony are priced at $30.00 (not including fees), with all proceeds benefitting the UFC Foundation. Tickets are available via AXS. The ceremony will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS^Ò.

Spanning more than 200,000 square feet, UFC X, the organization’s fully immersive and easily accessible two-day fan experience, will be enhanced for UFC’s 30^th anniversary to include larger brand and partner activations, live stage programming, an esports tournament, expanded autograph sessions, and increased athlete participation – providing fans with unparalleled access to UFC champions and Hall of Famers, top-ranked contenders, and other UFC personalities.

UFC X takes place Friday, July 7 and Saturday, July 8, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the second floor of the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, one of the premier meeting and conference venues in Las Vegas. Tickets for UFC X start at $25 for one-day access and $45 for two-day access. All children ages 12 and under will receive free entry. Tickets are available via AXS. UFC X is produced by global full-service cultural marketing agency 160over90.

Fans will have access to a mobile-friendly web-based platform that will enhance the UFC X consumer experience by delivering event-specific content such as autograph and meet & greet schedules, main stage programming, AR filters, access to sponsor offers, and a customizable UFC Journey digital scavenger hunt. The platform is being developed in collaboration with Digital Seat Media, a leader in mobile fan engagement solutions.

Fans who attend UFC X will also be able to purchase exclusive merchandise at the UFC Store, while also having the opportunity to participate in numerous activities with brand partners such as Modelo, Monster Energy, New Amsterdam Vodka, Cuervo, UFC Strike, Project Rock, Monaco, Air National Guard, KUDO, Culture Kings, UFC Gym, Panini, Howler Head, Twin Peaks, Dave and Busters and more! 

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, in partnership with UFC, hosts The Ultimates Invitational

amateur tournaments, on the first floor of the South Hall. This invitational will begin Thursday, July 6, and conclude Sunday, July 9, and features the following sports entities:

• International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (2023 American National Jiu-Jitsu Championship, July 6 – 8)
• USA Boxing (The Doc Doherty Classic; sanctioned by USA Boxing, July 6 – 9)

Fans who travel to Las Vegas from around the world for International Fight Week will also be able to enjoy ceremonial weigh-ins, press conferences and other activities of a traditional Fight Week, leading to the schedule’s culminating event, UFC^Ò 290: VOLKANOVSKI vs. RODRIGUEZ.

In addition, Resorts World Las Vegas, the 3,506-room luxury property and “Official Partner of UFC International Fight Week,” hosts three official parties during the week. On Saturday, July 8 the Official UFC 290 Viewing Party takes place at RedTail at 6 p.m., followed by the Official UFC 290 After Party at Zouk Nightclub beginning at 10 p.m. On Sunday, July 9, the Official UFC Pool Party takes place at AYU Dayclub beginning at 11 a.m.

For more information on all the week’s activities and events, please visit UFCFIGHTWEEK.COM.

QUINCY, Mass. (June 27, 2023) – Newly crowned  United States Boxing Federation (USBF) Champion Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (5-3, 2 KOs) and Massachusetts titleholder Jamer Jones (3-1, 3 KOs) both believe two title belts are better than one.

Baptiste vs. Jones will be the eight-round, co-featured event on the August 11^th (Aug. 12 rain date) “Veterans Memorial Showcase” Pro-Am card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), for their aforementioned middleweight titles. The outdoor show will be held at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts, for the benefit of Operation Homefront.

“This fight makes too much sense for both guys,” GCP president Chris Traietti said. “Both are looking to establish themselves as the best middleweight in Massachusetts and after August 11^th, one of them will be able to say that. It will be such a contract in styles, which typically leads to an action-packed fight.”

Baptiste, of Woburn, Pittsfield’s Jones both believe that the winner will move on to fight outside New England in the near future.

Baptiste had to overcome performance anxiety issues in his last fight, in which he captured his USBF crown with an impressive six-round unanimous decision over Ryan Clark this past June 10^th.

“Winning that title was me staying on course in my pro career,” Baptiste said. “I really want to progress and fight my way out of New England. I worked on some mechanisms in camp for my last fight (to get past his performance anxiety). We did some exercises and it all happened in the ring. I made some adjustments, and everything went according to plan. I did feel the difference and I had a lot of support.

“I don’t know too much about my opponent. I know he trains at the same gym as Steve Sumpter and that he’s a game opponent. I know he’s tall with a long reach, but I’ll adjust as we go along. We will see what the future holds.”  

Jones also won his strap in his last fight, taking a first-round TKO win against defending champion Anthony Andreozzi, who suffered a leg injury in their February 18^th fight.

“I usually keep a distance and work everything off my jab,” the 6’ 3” Jones explained. “I have a 75” reach and throw straight punches. My jab is my most important punch. I’ll see what he does, whether he slips, backs up, or goes forward. I’ll use distance to see how my opponent moves.

“I’ve always believed in my skill set. Now, I’m proving to others that I have a lot of talent and potential. He (Baptiste) is a decent fighter with decent skills, but he doesn’t have anything that can give me trouble. I’ll figure out a way. I want to fight on bigger platforms, not local shows, and need to win this fight.”

Former New England Welterweight Champion Mike “Bad Man, Ohan, Jr. (18-2, 9 KOs), of Holbrook, takes on Haverhill’s Harry “The Hitman” Gigliotti (9-4, 3 KOs), reigning ABF Atlantic super lightweight title holder, in the eight-round, non-title, main event in an old-fashioned All-Bay State showdown.

The undercard will soon be announced. Card subject to change.

Tickets for “Veterans Stadium Showcase,” are on sale and available for purchase online at www.EventBrite.com.

Sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Traietti at chris@granite-chin-promotions.com for details.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. ET with the amateur matches starting  at 6:30 p.m. ET, pro card commences at 8 pm. ET.

INFORMATION:  

WORCESTER, Mass. (June 27, 2023) – Blue Power will be in the ring on the “Punch-Out at Polar Park” Pro-Am card, presented by Shearns Boxing Promotions (SBP) in conjunction with Kenrick Ball’s Camp Get Right Boxing, Friday, August 4 (rain date Aug. 5), on the first boxing event ever held at Polar Park in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Polar Park is 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 from what is believed to be the first outdoor boxing show in Worcester history.

Two police officers, Worcester (MA) light heavyweight Neal Sullivan (0-0-1) and Norton (MA) super bantamweight Melanie “Pitbull” Costa (1-0, 1 KO), will be fighting on the pro card, respectively, with the full support of their fellow police officers. Sullivan vs. Michael Medeiros (0-4), Costa against Sarah “Switch Kick” Click (1-5-1).

Sullivan, 30, is a Worcester native who works for the city’s police department as a police patrol officer who answers 911 calls. He started boxing in 2007, after realizing there wasn’t a real future in football for a 6’ 0”, 130-pound running back. Sullivan started boxing at a gym operated by local boxer Sean Fitzgerald, switching to the Worcester Boys and Girls Club when Fitzy’s gym closed.

Sullivan had 40 amateur fights, starting in 2014, and three years later he made his professional debut at Worcester’s DCU Center, fighting to a draw. Boxing then was put on hold as Sullivan was in the Worcester police hiring process in 2019. He didn’t want to continue boxing and risk his new job. He continued training at various gyms and jumped at the opportunity to fight at home at Polar Park.

“It was like a perfect storm,” Sullivan explained why he’s fighting again. “I just turned 30 and this is like a storybook for me. I’m really excited; I’ve been shelved for four years. I love boxing and I love my city.

“I have a great job and I’m boxing. Boxers are from all walks of life, including police, and it doesn’t really matter what boxers do for jobs. My opponent may want to take my head off, but that has nothing to do with me being a police officer. There’s nothing but respect between us.”

Costa, on the other hand (or glove), was a celebrated amateur boxer who was nearly a U.S. Olympian. She is a four-time National Golden Gloves Champion, as well as a multiple New England Golden Gloves champion, Costa was also a winner at the 2016 Olympic Trials, but she failed to qualify for the Team USA Olympic Boxing Team. She was offered an opportunity to be the Olympic alternate in 2020, but the COVID pandemic delayed the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo for a year, and she respectively passed on the offer.

During a three-year period, in which boxing was restricted during the pandemic, Costa was caught between remaining an amateur boxer and possibly becoming a 2024 Olympian in Paris or making her pro debut. She eventually decided to go pro, winning her debut this past May by way of second-round knockout.

Melanie is a Norton patrol officer who is on the road in a car answering calls.

“I feel great and can’t wait to fight in such a beautiful place to box,” commented Costa, who trains at Big Six Academy in Providence, under the guidance of Dr. Roland Estrada and his son, Jason, a 2004 USA Olympian boxer. “I expect my opponent to bring her A game, which has nothing to do with me being a police officer.

“I expect to have a lot of my brothers and sisters (Norton police) there supporting me. Not everybody who wants to go to watch me fight can because of the different shifts we work. But I had a huge crowd at my first fight. It was awesome. I plan to box for a few more years. I’m still young enough (30) and we’ll see where this takes me. My goal is to win a championship.”

The eight-round main event showcases Worcester light heavyweight Kendrick “Peppa” Ball, Jr. (20-1-3, 12 KOs), a former New England middleweight champion and WBC USA Silver super middleweight champion, against Mexican southpaw Oscar “Moustro” Riojas (28-16-3, 16 KOs).

Undefeated Providence heavyweight Sean Bey (7-0, 7 KOs) will battle Pittsfield’s (MA) Quintin Sumpter (6-1, 4 KOs) in the eight-round co-featured event in a classic New England confrontation.

On the undercard, Brockton’s undefeated super featherweight “King” Kevin Walsh (9-0, 4 KOs) meets Philip Davis (3-5-2), of Worcester, while Puerto Rican welterweight prospect Josniel “TG” Castro (9-1, 7 KOs) will be matched against an opponent to be determined, in a pair of six-rounders.

In two other four-round fights, pro-debuting Native American Robert Degaetano, of Douglas (MA), makes his pro-debut versus welterweight Michael “Titan” Taylor (1-5), and Newton lightweight Tevin Regis will make his pro debut.

The pro card will start after amateur boxers from throughout New England compete in the inaugural Carlos Garcia Tournament, named after the National Golden Gloves Hall of Fame trainer who founded and operated the highly successful boxing program at the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester for four decades.

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 (Homeplate 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

GLENDALE, Ariz. (June 27, 2023) – Tickets go on sale TODAY for the August 12 junior lightweight title showdown between WBO world champion Emanuel “Vaquero” Navarrete and former two-division world champion Oscar Valdez at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

U.S. Olympic silver medalist Richard Torrez Jr. will open the televised tripleheader in a six-round heavyweight tilt against Willie Jake Jr. The bout was initially scheduled for March, but Torrez tore his oblique in training.

Navarrete-Valdez, a to-be-announced co-feature, and Torrez-Jake will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $50 go on sale TODAY at 12 p.m. PT via Ticketmaster.com.

Torrez (5-0, 5 KOs) made his pro debut last year with a second-round stoppage win against Allen Melson. He scored three additional knockouts in 2022 before making his triumphant 2023 debut by blasting out James Bryant in the opening round. Jake (11-3-2, 3 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana, is a seven-year pro who has won three straight fights.

The ESPN+-streamed undercard includes some of the sports brightest young talents.

Junior welterweight Lindolfo Delgado (17-0, 13 KOs), a 2016 Mexican Olympian, puts his unbeaten record on the line against compatriot Jair Valtierra (16-2, 8 KOs) in a 10-rounder. Last August, Delgado authored a career-best victory over then-unbeaten prospect Omar Aguilar and is coming off a decision win over Florida veteran Clarence Booth at Desert Diamond Arena in February.

Undefeated lightweight prospect Emiliano Fernando Vargas (5-0, 4 KOs) will face an opponent to be named in a four-rounder. “El General” began his 2023 campaign with a decision win over Francisco Duque in February at Desert Diamond Arena. He then stopped Edgar Uvalle in two rounds in April before beating Rafael Jasso via second-round knockout the following month on the Devin Haney-Vasiliy Lomachenko undercard.

In a six-round super middleweight dual between two of Phoenix’s crowd favorites, Sergio Rodriguez (7-0-1, 6 KOs) and Eduardo Ayala (9-3-1, 3 KOs), will meet for intra-city bragging rights.

Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (8-0-1, 2 KOs), who trains out of the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy, will fight Isaiah Wise (11-2-2, 6 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight clash.

Rising junior welterweight prospect Ricardo Ruvalcaba (9-0-1, 8 KOs) will make his fourth appearance of 2023 in a scheduled six-rounder. Ruvalcaba scored first-round knockouts against Kenny Williams in January, Marco Cardenas in March and Ramon Duarte Marquez in May.

Heavyweight knockout artist Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (7-0, 6 KOs) returns in a six-rounder against Dajuan Calloway (7-2, 7 KOs). In March, the 6-foot-9, 270-pound southpaw rose off the canvas to edge Patrick Mailata by split decision.

NEW YORK (JUNE 27, 2023) – Three Split-T Management fighters were impressive in keeping their undefeated records intact with victories this past Saturday night.

In New York, light heavyweight Khalil Coe stopped Buneet Bisla in round seven of their eight-round fight at The Madison Square Theater.

Coe was impressive from the ouetset as he dropped Bisla with a jab in the opening frame, Coe was credited with a second knockdown in the round as he landed a right that Bisla down again,

Coe continued to dominate as he bloodied those of Bisla. In round seven, Coe landed a hard uppercut that clearly hurt Bisla. “The Big Steppa” followed up with a barrage of punches that forced the stoppage.

With his second consecutive stoppage win, the Flemington, New Jersey native remained undefeated at 6-0-1 with four knockouts. Bisla of British Columbia, suffered his first defeat and is now 7-1.

In Milwaukee, junior lightweight, Javier Zamarron took out Prentice Canada in the second round of their six-round junior lightweight bout at The Harley-Davidson Museum.

The 22 year-old Zamarron thrilled the hometown crowd as the native of Sheboygan was dominant in his outing that saw hm go to 4-0 with three knockouts,

In Philadelphia, bantamweight Trinidad Vargas boxed his way to a four-round unanimous decision over Luis Rivera at the 2300 Arena.

Vargas showed the boxing skills that made him a 13-time National Amateur Champion.

Vargas, 20 of Grand Prairie, Texas won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 3-0. Rivera was making his pro debut.

Los Angeles, CA (June 26, 2023) Boxing’s Top International Prospect, Tito Mercado, (10-0, 10 KOs), will return to battle on Saturday, July 8 against battle-tested, South African veteran Xolisani Ndongeni, (31-2, 18 KOs), in a scheduled ten-round super lightweight clash from Managua, Nicaragua.

The 21-year-old Mercado, fighting out of Pomona, CA, is hitting the ring following a destructive first round knockout of world title challenger Hank Lundy on April 15, 2023 witnessed by a huge crowd in Ontario, CA.

The lauded Mercado, a promotional free agent, has been on a streak of show stopping-knockouts since turning professional two years ago following an acclaimed amateur career. Five of his knockouts have come in the first round.

Said the 5’10” Mercado about the upcoming fight and his schedule, “This is a great opportunity for me to fight in my father’s homeland, Nicaragua. Ndongeni has only lost twice, once by decision to Devin Haney. I’m staying busy but also want to fight the best in the 140lb. division, I’m ready for a top ten fighter at super welterweight right now.”

The 33-year-old Ndongeni faces off against Mercado riding a five-bout winning streak, last seeing action with a seventh-round knockout of Apinun Khongsong on November 17 in Durban, South Africa.

The fight on July 8 will be broadcast on Canal 6 in Nicaragua and can be streamed here.

NEW YORK – June 26, 2023 – Michigan-based heavyweight Robert Simms has set his sights on a rematch against streaking heavyweight Joe Cusumano after Cusumano scored a career-best victory this past Saturday in stopping longtime heavyweight contender Adam Kownacki. Simms bested Cusumano via unanimous decision in 2018 and believes now is the time for a sequel.

“Now is the perfect time to rematch Cusumano and really show everyone what I’m capable of,” said Simms. “I would think he’d want a chance to avenge a loss. I believe I’m a couple bad scorecards away from being undefeated. Cusumano is easy work and I’d definitely jump at the chance to prove that to a worldwide audience.”

Simms (12-3-1, 3 KOs) is also coming off of a career-best victory as he dominated the previously unbeaten James McKenzie Morrison to earn a unanimous decision last October, earning him a WBC U.S. title. The Saginaw native is 5-1-1 since facing Cusumano and has fought professionally since 2015. Simms’ losses have all come by either split or majority decision and to fighters with a combined 38-1-1 record at the time of facing Simms.

“Robert Simms is coming off a big win and has beaten some highly-regarded prospects in the division, including Cusamano on his way up,” said Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions, Simms’ promoter. “All of his losses easily could have been judged the other way. Robert can really fight and has shown that he can beat bigger opponents. He is a hard worker who perfected his skills in the art of the sweet science.”

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ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS

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

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action. 

Los Angeles, CA (June 26, 2023) The Fastest Rising Star in Boxing, ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (7-0, 6 KOs), will make the first defense of his WBC US Silver Super Welterweight Title in the scheduled ten-round main event on Saturday, August 26 at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, CA and broadcast globally on UFC FIGHT PASS.

Presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions as part of their acclaimed Hollywood Fight Nights events, tickets priced at $200, $150, $100, $80 and $60 will go On-Sale Tomorrow,

June 27 and can be purchased online at www.360Promotions.us. The Commerce Casino, ‘The World’s Largest Card Room and Site of the LA Poker Classic’, is located at 6131 Telegraph Road, Commerce, CA 90040. For more information and directions visit their website.

Trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach at the famed Wild Card Boxing Gym in Hollywood, CA, the 22-year-old southpaw, a native of Cork, Ireland, Walsh earned the WBC US Silver Super Welterweight Title with a dominant KO performance and fourth round stoppage of world title challenger Carson Jones in front of a sold-out Commerce Casino on June 9, 2023.

Said Callum Walsh, “I’ve had a quick break back home in Ireland since my last fight and look forward to being back in the ring on August 26. We’ve got a lot planned for the second half of this year and I’ll be glad to start training again with Freddie.”

“Callum Walsh continues to demonstrate why he’s The Fastest Rising Star in Boxing,” said Tom Loeffler. “His entertaining, knockout style brings huge crowds to each of his fights and his fanbase continues to escalate with the international reach of our partners at UFC FIGHT PASS.”

“We’re very excited to be back at the Commerce Casino and expect another big night for Callum and many Southern California fan favorites which we will be announcing shortly. I strongly encourage fans to purchase tickets well in advance as we expect another sold-out event on Saturday, August 26.”

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Social Media

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Twitter

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Website

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Media Contact/Credentials

Bernie Bahrmasel

Double B Sports

Email: BernieBahrmasel@yahoo.com

Phone: +1 773 592-2986

Twitter: @BernieBahrmasel

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About UFC FIGHT PASS^®:

UFC FIGHT PASS^® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, UFC FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. UFC FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. UFC FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 20,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access UFC FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV. For more information, please visit www.ufcfightpass.com or @UFCFightPass on Twitter, and Instagram and on Facebook at facebook.com/ufcfightpass.

About 360 Promotions:

In 2017, Tom Loeffler founded 360 Promotions to provide an additional platform for boxers to showcase their talents. 360 Promotions produced the acclaimed ‘Superfly’ series giving exposure to tremendous talents in the lighter divisions including world champions. In 2018, 360 Promotions launched the Hollywood Fight Nights series at the Avalon Nightclub in Hollywood, CA. Hollywood Fight Nights is billed as the VIP boxing experience which provides a platform for rising boxers to develop their talents as future champions.

About Tom Loeffler:

Tom Loeffler has worked in the boxing industry for over 30 years. He started by successfully managing numerous world champions and from that experience, in 2003 he founded K2 Promotions with Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko, enabling them to take control of their careers. K2 Promotions holds the record for having promoted the most heavyweight world title fights this century while promoting all the world championship fights of the Klitschko brothers. Loeffler brought the Spotlight to the Flyweight division launching the Superfly Series on HBO that highlighted stars including Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez, Juan Francisco Estrada, Kazuto Ioka, Srisaket Sor Rungvisai and Carlos Cuadras. The Superfly series changed the economics for those fighters and the entire division. Loeffler is best known for his work with Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin, securing his HBO debut in 2012 and then strategically building him into an international superstar, selling out arenas such as Madison Square Garden in New York City, T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, The Forum in Los Angeles, and The O2 in London. He secured sponsorship deals for ‘GGG’ with global brands such as Jordan Brand, Hublot, Tecate, Chivas, and Bijan. Loeffler has also worked with Hall of Fame fighters Shane Mosley, James Toney and Laila Ali in addition to former Undisputed Welterweight World Champion Cecilia Braekhus and his first champion, former WBC Featherweight World Champion Kevin Kelley. He also promoted the US debut of Pound-for-Pound great Naoya Inoue on September 9, 2017 at the first Superfly event in Carson, CA and broadcast on HBO.

Junaid Bostan will looking to make it six knockouts from six fights when he steps up against Midlands Area Champion Ryan Amos over eight rounds on the undercard of Dalton Smith’s British and Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Titles clash with Sam Maxwell this Saturday July 1 at the Utilita Arena Sheffield, shown live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

The 21-year-old southpaw from Rotherham has looked unstoppable so far in the professional ranks, ending all five of his contests inside the distance, earning him a reputation as one of the brightest 154lbs prospects in the UK, but the Grant Smith-trained talent faces the toughest test of his career this weekend.

Nottingham’s Amos, the reigning Midlands Area Champion at Super-Welterweight, is undefeated in 11 contests since turning over at the Harvey Hadden Sports Village back in October 2018. The 32-year-old from Clifton nicknamed ‘The Punisher’ is out to derail the Bostan hype train. 

“He’s Midlands Area Champion, he’s undefeated, he’s rugged and tough,” Bostan said of his latest opponent. “I’m planning on making an easy night’s work of it. I’ve been brought up by good people and I’ve been around good people. I’ve got to keep myself level-headed because if I don’t then they’ll put me in my place.

“I also think religion plays a big part of it. You’ve got to stay humble. As far as you can go up, you can also come back down. If I started acting like a bit of a bellend then Grant will be on my case telling me to fix up. The boys in the gym will tell me to fix up. I think I’m mature enough. I keep myself in touch with things and make sure I’m doing the right things.”

Bostan will be fresh from a Nevada, USA training camp, which followed his chilling demolition of Peter Kramer at Nottingham Arena in February. It will be his second appearance on the big stage at Sheffield Arena, and the Yorkshireman will be looking to make another statement on home soil as he continues his climb up the domestic ladder.

“I’ve had the best of both worlds,” said Bostan. “My last few fights have gone to the later rounds, so I’ve kind of got the both of best worlds. If you mention to me that I’m going to chin the kid in the first round or you’re going to outpoint them, I’m going to pick the first round every single time.

“It is one of them, it is a catch 22. It’s not really up to me. If you put me in front of anyone, my intentions are, really, to get them out of there or at least win. Whatever will be will be. I trust myself, I prepare myself as if I’m doing an eight round fight all the way to the last bell, but if it goes that far it’s up to them. I definitely want it.

“I think the manner of how you go for it is what matters. People say they go headhunting, they go looking for it, searching and putting the one bomb in – that’s not me. I definitely want it, I do prioritise it but there’s a manner of how you get it; breaking them down, picking your shots, placing your shots, putting your shots together when they need to be put and then eventually they’ll get it. That’s how I’ve been doing it so far and that’s how I’m going to carry on doing it.”

Bostan vs. Amos is part of a big night of boxing Sheffield, Owls fanatic Dalton Smith (14-0, 10 KOs) attempts to win the British Super-Lightweight Title outright when he clashes with Liverpool’s Commonwealth Champion Sam Maxwell (17-1, 11 KOs) in the main event, Sunderland Super-Welterweight Pat McCormack (4-0, 3 KOs) takes on Welshman Tony Dixon (14-4, 4 KOs) for the WBA Continental Title, Leeds talent Hopey Price (10-0, 3 KOs) faces Bloxwich’s James Beech Jnr (15-4, 2 KOs) with the WBA Continental Title on the line, Hull’s Lewis Sylvester (11-0, 3 KOs) and Hartlepool’s Adam Cope (7-0, 1 KO) contest the vacant English Lightweight Title, Brazilian amateur star Beatriz Ferreria (2-0, 1 KO) meets Mexico’s Karla Ramos Zamora (10-9-1, 3 KOs) in an eight round Super-Featherweight contest, Mansfield Super-Bantamweight Nico Leivars (3-0-1) fights Madrid’s Alberto Motos (4-0) over six rounds and Yorkshire’s Cory O’Regan (9-0, 1 KO) takes on Jordan Ellison (14-47-3, 1 KO) in a six round Lightweight contest to kick off the evening’s action. 

Tickets for Smith vs. Maxwell can be purchased via Stage Front. 

Lyndon Arthur and Braian Suarez will battle it out for the vacant IBO world light heavyweight title on September 1, live and free-to-air on Channel 5. 

The rivals were due to square off in March, but a medical issue forced Argentina’s Suarez to pull out, 24 hours before their showdown. 

‘King’ Arthur dealt with late replacement Boris Crighton the following evening, but his focus instantly switched back to the IBO belt – and getting his hands on Suarez as soon as possible. 

And Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes, Numan and Infinitum Entertainment, have delivered the fight that has been on Arthur’s mind for months. 

Victory for either man at the University of Bolton Stadium, this September, opens the door to some huge international fights and Manchester’s Arthur has waited too long to let this golden opportunity slip through his fingers. 

Lyndon Arthur said: “This fight, and this opponent, have been on my mind since the start of the year. I have thought of little else so I can’t wait to finally get in the ring with Suarez on September 1, defeat him and put the IBO world title around my waist. 

“This is a huge moment in my career because victory will open the door to some massive fights for me and for Manchester. 

“It’s time for the coronation of King Arthur!” 

Ladbrokes Big Fight Odds
Lyndon Arthur – 1/10

Braian Suarez – 6/1

Draw – 20/1

Braian Suarez said: “You cannot begin to imagine the hurt I felt, when I was forced to withdraw from this fight in March. 

“But I have used the pain from that moment to push myself harder in the gym, and I return to Bolton, in September, an even better version of the fighter who was ready to fight Arthur a few months ago. 

“I was already very confident of victory but now, I am convinced of it.”  

Kalle Sauerland, Global Head of Boxing at Wasserman Boxing, said: “The second Lyndon stepped out of the ring in March, there was one thing on his mind – Suarez. 

“It was the only fight he wanted, and we were determined to make sure the fight happened again, and that the IBO world title would still be on the line.  

“For the winner on September 1, the world awaits. It’s a massive moment for both men and the delay has only added to the suspense.  

“Finally, later this year, they get it on!” 

NEW YORK (JUNE 24, 2023) – Two undefeated fighters under the Split-T Management banner will be in action tonight.

At The Madison Square Garden Theater, undefeated Khalil Coe takes on Buneet Bisla in an eight-round battle of light heavyweight’s.

In Milwaukee at The Fireserv Forum, Javier Zamarron takes on Printice Canada in a six-round junior lightweight contest.

?Coe of Flemington, New Jersey is 5-0-1 with three knockouts. The 26 year-old Coe has wins over two undefeated opponents in Dylan O’Sullivan (1-0) and Bradley Olmeda (5-0). Coe is coming off a third round stoppage over James Quiter (6-1-1) on April 8th in San Antonio, Texas.

Bisla of Surrey, British Columbia is with three knockouts. The 25 year-old Bisla Has a win over undefeated Javon Blackstock-Sewell (2-0). In his most recent outing, Bisla defeated Fernando Galvan on May 12th in Surry, BC, CAN.

Coe, who is promoted by Matchroom Boxing and co-managed by Keith Connolly weighed 176.2 lbs. Bisla was 173.2.

The bout can be seen on Matchroom Youtube page beginning at 6 PM ET.

Zamarron of Sheboygan, Wisconsin is 3-0 with two knockouts. The 22 year-old is coming off a unanimous decision over Roberto Armas on April 1st in Milwaukee.

Canada of Saint Louis is 6-10-1 with four knockouts. The 29 year-old Canada is coming off a first round stoppage over Rocky Hughes on May 20th in Jefferson, Missouri.

Photo Credit: Ed Mulholland / Matchroom Boxing.

VERO BEACH, FL (June 23, 2023) – Ziyad Almaayouf (3-0,1 KO), the talented super lightweight prospect, is making significant strides in professional boxing as he aims to become the face of the sport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Promoted by Skill Challenge Promotions, Almaayouf has emerged as the only professional boxer born in Saudi Arabia who is making waves in the world of professional boxing.

Almaayouf, is driven by his passion for the sweet science and his desire to inspire future generations of Saudi Arabian boxers. He envisions himself as the torchbearer for the sport in his home country. With two of his fights taking place in The Kingdom, Almaayouf is quickly gaining recognition from his countrymen.

“I am proud to represent Saudi Arabia and showcase the sport of boxing within our country,” Almaayouf shared. “My goal is not only to achieve personal success in the ring but also to inspire young Saudis to pursue their dreams in boxing and show the world what we are capable of.”

Skill Challenge Promotions has been instrumental in nurturing Almaayouf’s career and providing him with a platform to shine. Under their guidance, Almaayouf has been able to showcase his skills as a professional fighter.

Expressing his enthusiasm for Almaayouf’s potential and his aspirations for the future Skill Challenge Promotions Director of Boxing Operations, Amer Abdallah said, “Ziyad is a special talent, and we firmly believe that he has the potential to become one of the major faces of boxing in Saudi Arabia.” He continued “His dedication, discipline and natural ability are evident in every fight, and we are proud to support him on his journey to the top.”

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With his sight set on making a name for himself in the super lightweight division, Almaayouf is working diligently to continue his winning streak.  He has moved to the United States to take his career to the next level and is now training in Vero Beach, Florida with renowned trainer, Buddy McGirt.

“Since I’ve been training in the States with Buddy McGirt, I can honestly say that I am ready to step up in competition,” continued Almaayouf. “I’m in the gym learning from some of the best fighters in the world. I’m fighting to inspire a new generation of Saudi Arabian boxers. To help them follow their dreams and make their mark on the international boxing stage.

LAS VEGAS – June 23, 2023 – Three all-action showdowns featuring prodigious rising stars, ascending Mexican fan-favorites, unbeaten contenders and more will highlight the stacked Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. vs. Terence “Bud” Crawford SHOWTIME PPV on Saturday, July 29 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

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 rising star Jesus “Mono” Ramos takes on Spanish contender Sergio Garcia in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title eliminator. Kicking off the pay-per-view, unbeaten rising heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan will duel the power-punching Viktor Faust in a 10-round matchup.

These intriguing showdowns serve as the prelude to the highly anticipated main event between unified WBC, WBA and IBF Welterweight World Champion Spence Jr. and WBO 147-pound world champion Crawford for the Undisputed Welterweight World Championship. The winner of this battle of undefeated superstars will become the first undisputed welterweight world champion in the four-belt era and likely emerge as the sport’s No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter.

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

“This pay-per-view lineup on July 29 is worthy of the mega-fight main event and will give fans high-stakes action leading up to the seismic showdown between Errol Spence Jr. and Terence Crawford,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Isaac Cruz and Jesus Ramos Jr. are two rising stars who deliver fireworks every time they get in the ring, and they’ll be pushed to be at their best in tough matchups on SHOWTIME PPV. Adding in an explosive heavyweight opener, and fans will want to make sure they get into their seats early at T-Mobile Arena.”

The 25-year-old Cruz (24-2-1, 17 KOs) has delivered back-to-back electrifying knockouts since dropping a competitive and entertaining decision against undefeated superstar Gervonta Davis in December 2021. A native of Mexico City, Cruz shot up the lightweight rankings in 2020, announcing his presence with an electrifying first-round knockout over veteran Diego Magdaleno in October before adding dominant decisions over Francisco Vargas and Matias Romero. Cruz’s last two fights have seen him stop former champion Yuriorkis Gamboa in April 2022 and veteran contender Eduardo Ramirez in September 2022.

“I can’t wait to be back in the ring on July 29 in the boxing capital of the world of Las Vegas,” said Cruz. “It’s even more exciting that I’ll be back on the biggest show of the year. It has always been a dream of mine to fight in Las Vegas, where so many Mexican legends like Julio Cesar Chavez, Salvador Sanchez and Erik Morales have fought before. Now it’s my opportunity and I will not disappoint the fans. As always, I’m coming for the knockout!”

Originally from Seattle and now residing in Chicago, Cabrera (21-0, 7 KOs) enters the ring off an impressive shutout victory over Gabriel Flores Jr. last July, capping a dominant three-win 2022 campaign. The 28-year-old has defeated seven undefeated fighters throughout a pro career that dates back to 2016. Cabrera kicked off his strong 2022 with a unanimous decision triumph over highly regarded Mexican contender Rene Tellez Giron in January and can establish himself as a member of the 135-pound elite if he can get past Cruz on July 29.

“It hasn’t been an easy road to this point, and I know that I have to beat ‘Pitbull’ Cruz to continue my path to the world title,” said Cabrera. “This is a hard fight, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I want to earn my status as world champion. Spence vs. Crawford is reminiscent of the glory days of boxing when the best fought the best, and I want to continue that legacy. I respect Cruz and I expect a war. May the best fighter win on July 29.”

A strong southpaw who at 22 has yet to come close to hitting his ceiling as a fighter, Ramos (20-0, 16 KOs) blitzed then unbeaten Joey Spencer in March, dropping him in round one before stopping him in round seven to earn the TKO in his sensational 2023 debut. A native of Casa Grande, Ariz., Ramos also owns back-to-back 10-round unanimous decisions over Brian Mendoza and Javier Molina in 2021, which he followed up by defeating Luke Santamaria and Vladimir Hernandez in 2022. Overall, the youthful Ramos has gained recognition with highlight-reel KOs, stopping seven of his last 10 opponents, showcasing a desire to end his fights early. 

“I’m coming to give the crowd a great show on the biggest card of the year,” said Ramos. “I’m very happy and excited to be back on another huge card. Sergio Garcia is a tough opponent and I know he’s going to bring the best out in me. That’s just gonna make for even more entertainment for the fans. I’m training hard and I promise I’m gonna be ready for whatever Garcia brings on July 29.”

The 30-year-old Garcia (34-2, 14 KOs) returned to the ring April to defeat Ricardo Sebastian Cabana before he steps into the ring for his third stateside bout on July 29. Garcia’s only career defeats have come via decision as he dropped a December 2021 bout against top contender Sebastian Fundora and an April 2022 clash against former world champion Tony Harrison. Fighting out of Torrelavega, Cantabria, Spain, Garcia has competed professionally since 2012. He ascended the rankings by traveling to the U.K. to defeat then unbeaten Ted Cheeseman on his home soil in 2019 and followed that up with a triumph over veteran contender Sergey Rabchenko.

“I’m very motivated by this new opportunity to fight in the U.S. and I want to thank my team for trusting to put me back in this position,” said Garcia. “I’m hoping to give the fans a great fight. Jesus has a great future ahead of him, but I also have a lot of experience in important fights and I think that will lead me to the victory. It will be a hard fight but I’m ready to be at my very best and use everything I have to get my hand raised.”

The 25-year-old Hovhannisyan (4-0, 4 KOs) has delivered four consecutive knockouts since turning pro in September 2021, showing the promise he originally displayed in his extensive amateur career. Originally from Yerevan, Armenia, he now fights out of Los Angeles as he looks to bolster his heavyweight resume. Most recently, Hovhannisyan earned a career-best victory, stopping previous top prospect Michael Coffie in six rounds last October.

“July 29 is a great opportunity for me to showcase myself in front of the world,” said Hovhannisyan. “Boxing is a serious sport, but if you train hard and understand it, you can understand exactly what you have to do in the ring. I’m going to prove what I can do in this fight and make a statement.”

Faust (11-1, 7 KOs) will look to get back in the win column after dropping a battle of unbeatens against Lenier Pero in February. His previous stateside outing saw him engage in one of 2022’s most unpredictable and fast-paced slugfests. The 31-year-old squared off with Iago Kiladze in January 2022 with both men hitting the canvas an astonishing five times combined in less than five minutes of action before the Ukrainian closed out the bout in round two to earn a TKO. Faust followed that up with decision wins over veteran title challenger Kevin Johnson in August 2022 and Franklin Lawrence in December 2022.

“I’m working very hard to come to Las Vegas and put on a great fight,” said Faust. “I’m excited to be back fighting in the U.S. and ready to show the fans what I can do. I had a rib injury in my last fight and couldn’t continue, but it has only made me more motivated to win on July 29. It’s an honor to be fighting on such a big card, and I know this is a big step that I can make toward becoming world champion. I’m sure Gurgen is going to come prepared just like me and that the fans are going to be the real winners.”

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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/.