“It is extremely sad to witness the passing of boxing’s greatest fighter and icon Muhammad Ali. I would like to send my deepest condolences and thoughts to his family at this time. No fighter or sportsman will ever reach the level of Muhammad Ali, whose name will continue to echo through the ages. Inspiring, charismatic, a true legend – Ali will never be forgotten. Having the chance to meet the great man will be a memory and privilege I will always hold dear to me – an incredible human being, fighter and role model. Thank you Muhammad for inspiring us all.”

“We join the rest of the world in mourning the passing of Muhammad Ali and celebrating the legacy of this unique man in unifying us through his acts and gifts.

“Ali’s charisma, grace, and genius transcended all races, religions, nationalities, and generations. His spirit will inspire people forever.

“HBO is honored to have known Muhammad Ali as a fighter of beauty and a man of principle. We experienced the joy of working with him in support of initiatives he passionately cared about including, most importantly, his never-ending desire to teach tolerance and understanding of others to all people.

“Muhammad Ali was an icon and hero, father and friend, and beacon of hope for oppressed people throughout the world. He will be missed by all of those whose lives he touched. There are not enough bells to toll this loss.”

Derrick Webster 167 – Lenwood Dozier 161
Elijah Vines 154 – Jordan Rosario 154.4
Vidal Rivera 124.4 – Brian Santos 123.4
Mike Hilton 196 – Dave Valykeo 198

Promoter: D and D Promotions
Venue: The Grundy Arena
1st Bout: 6 PM

There will be 6 high-level amateur bouts.

Tickets for this special evening are $150 (VIP–Food and beverage is included), $100, $75, $50 & $30 and can be purchased by calling Dave Price at 267-246-7182 or Doc Nowicki at 609-923-3982

The Grundy Arena is located at 475 Beaver Street in Bristol, PA

LOS ANGELES (June 3, 2016) – Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya has issued the following statement with regard to the passing of “The Greatest” Muhammad Ali:

“It is with great sadness today that we mourn the loss of the Greatest of All Time – Muhammad Ali. I send my deepest condolences to his family, and pray for strength and peace for them during this difficult time.

“Muhammad Ali is a legend and one of the world’s most celebrated athletes, the fighter who ushered in the golden era of boxing and put the sport on the map. He paved the way for professional fighters, including myself, elevating boxing to become a sport watched in millions of households around the world.

“Ali’s talent was undeniable – he was an Olympic Gold Medalist, three-time lineal world heavyweight champion, and the only one to accomplish that to this day, and reached the pinnacle of our sport as the undisputed heavyweight champion in 1964.

“Beyond his incredible talent, he also made boxing interesting. Ali was fearless in the ring, and took on the toughest, most challenging opponents. Ali exemplified courage—he never took the easy route, something to be admired in and outside of the ring.

“As he grew older, he didn’t let his physical condition become an excuse to stop working; he continued to work hard, focusing on giving back to the community. Today, as we reflect on his life, let us remember a man who pursued greatness in everything he did and be inspired to hold ourselves to that same standard. Rest in peace, my friend.”

# # #

LOS ANGELES (June 3, 2016) Golden Boy Promotions kicked off the summer with a sold out stacked undercard of top talents, including WBC Silver Featherweight champion Ronny Rios and the first ever female fighters on this edition of LA FIGHT CLUB. Golden Boy fighter Jesus “Renuente” Soto Karass was in attendance to witness all of the action. Fans were able to tune in to this fight frenzy broadcast live on Estrella TV and streaming live simultaneously on Ring TV, estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios.

Santa Ana, CA fan favorite and current WBC Silver Featherweight titleholder Ronny Rios (25-1, 10 KOs) came back in the ring for the first time since defeating Jayson “La Maravilla” Velez on the Cotto vs. Canelo undercard last November to face Efrain Esquivias (17-4-1, 10 KOs) in a featherweight fight. Rios came in the ring with a vengeance, knocking Esquivias down in the first round with his powerful punches. The Belasco was a full house tonight chanting “Ronny” throughout his entire bout as they watched Rios take down Esquivias in the second round by technical knockout. Wearing his WBC Silver Featherweight belt proudly on display in the ring after his dominating win, one thing was for certain-Rios’ talents were on full display for his fans tonight.

“I knew Esquivias from my amateur days, and I remember him being a tough fighter,” said Rios after the bout. “I know that I trained harder, and prepared for this fight as if I would have prepared for a champion fight. This is just another step in the ladder to get my shot at a world title.”

The televised co-main event brought the likes of undefeated Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa (15-0, 7 KOs) hailing from Brooklyn, NY for his second LA FIGHT CLUB to face Bayamon, Puerto Rico’s Luis Joel Gonzalez (11-4-1, 6 KOs) in this eight-round super lightweight fight. Despite Ochoa putting on the pressure with his impressive reach, Gonzalez was able to knock Zachary down in the third round for a brief second. For the duration of the fight the two fighters danced around each other, exchanging blocks and jabs. Eventually, “Zungry” struck his opponent with a right chin jab in the seventh round in the most devastating knockout of the night–proving his sheer speed and strength to be too much for Gonzalez to handle.

“In this fight, I proved that I could make it all eight rounds, while maintaining all my power,” said Ochoa. “The endurance in my legs kept me steady throughout the fight. I saw the opportunity, and in the moment that I threw my right overhand punch, I knew he wasn’t going to get back up. This victory is just another win to get me closer to my dreams.”

Opening up the televised portion of the night, this edition of LA FIGHT CLUB made history as Golden Boy Promotions’ first female boxing event to take place at The Belasco Theater. Seniesa Estrada (7-0, 1 KO) representing East L.A. went up against Laredo, TX’s Christina Fuentes (4-8-5) in a scheduled six-round flyweight. Sparks flew as these two boxers went at it in all-out brawl in the ring inciting cries and cheers from fight fans. The fight took an ugly turn as Fuentes was docked a point for going after Estrada after knocking her down with a right during the third round. But that didn’t stop Estrada as she got up to fight back and during the fourth round began to corner Fuentes on the ropes while delivering quick combinations. Due to her quick comeback, the judges all voted to give Estrada the flyweight victory of the night.

“I came determined to win,” said Seniesa of being the first victorious female fighter of LA FIGHT CLUB. “Being in the sport since I was eight, I have the boxing skills to take on anyone. I wasn’t hurt at all in the fight, not even when I tripped up, and like the true fighter I am–I got back up. We both put in the work to be able to get on live television, and as female boxers, that’s no small feat. I am so thankful to Golden Boy for recognizing the value in us female fighters, and look forward to more fights like these.”

“Honestly, despite the outcome, I came to show that women can perform in this sport, and even do it better,” said Christina Fuentes of her bout. “Estrada and I came out to make a statement, and I feel like we did that as the Belasco’s first female fight. When I knocked her down for a brief second, I knew that I was holding my own, and could possibly win. Although she was throwing more punches, I felt like I was hurting her more at some points. I’m confident I’ll be back in the ring because I am a strong, woman fighter.”

Local fan favorite Rafael “El Alikin” Gramajo (8-1-1, 2 KOs) stepped back in the ring to face opponent Fajardo, PR’s Harold Reyes (2-6-1) adding fuel to the fire in the Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry in this six-round featherweight fight. The bout began with a bang as Gramajo knocked down Reyes in the first few minutes. As the rounds progressed, punches were flying as these two fighters battled it out in the ring to seize the victory. The fans came out to show their support for “El Alikin” and went wild as the judges awarded him a unanimous decision win.

“I knew entering the ring that I was the bigger fighter,” said Rafael Gramajo of his unanimous decision win. “Our game plan was perfect, and we knew in order to win the fight I had to out-box him and walk him down. I’m so thankful for my boxing family, because without them, this wouldn’t mean anything. I expect my future fights to look bright as I build my reputation as a notable fighter.”

Los Angeles, CA’s Pablo “The Shark” Rubio Jr. (6-0, 3 KOs) was on the hunt in his six-round super bantamweight fight against Jorge Perez (2-3, 1 KO) of Riverside, CA. This rising fan favorite delivered some of the most devastating blows of the night to Perez, who pulled through until the very end with his counterpunches and blocks making for an all-out blood bath. Ultimately, the judges impressed by Rubio Jr.’s strength and skill awarded him the fight by unanimous decision.

“I loved the fact that we fought hard continuously through the fight,” said Pablo Rubio Jr. of his undisputed victory. “Not only did we give the fans a show, but we were both able to sharpen our skills in the ring. Perez is a tough fighter, and he was giving me a hard time, but I trained hard to go the distance in the ring. I have a lot of things that I learned about myself as a fighter, and what I would like to improve on, such as my distance and being able to land shots while being on the defensive. I hope the fans will get to see me dominate more fights in the ring.”

Los Angeles native Tenochtitlan “T-Dog” Nava (2-0) battled against David Montes (0-3) of El Paso Texas. “T-Dog” landed the first punch of the night, setting the tone of the fight. In a flurry of punches, the referee having to reset the fighters various times. Entering the second round, both fighters were hungry, landing combinations to the face and body. By the fourth round, we saw “T-Dog’s” expansive reach, landing overwhelming punches to the face. The judges all agreed he was the victor of the night via unanimous decision.

“I felt very confident about my fight today,” said champion Tenochtitlan Nava. “I train for every fight like I am the underdog because I feel like I have something to prove, and that I am a great fighter. I did get tired during this fight and it was because I felt I needed to punch harder and throw more punches. He was a bigger fighter and I needed to do more to win. I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions and the Saucedo Brothers for this opportunity, all my supporters and the Marching Skulls from West Side Boxing Club.”

Ronny Rios vs. Efrain Esquivias was presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD, Casa Mexico Tequila and Carmelita Chorizo.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV and become a fanon Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB and #BoxeoEstelar.

AIN EVENT – VACANT WBC SILVER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP (12)
Cristian “El Diamante” Mijares (53-8-2, 26 KOs, Gomez Palacio, Durango, Mexico 125.8 lbs.
Andres “Jaguarito” Gutierrez (34-0-1, 24 KOs), Guadalajara, Queretaro, Mexico 130 lbs.*
(Andreas was 4 lbs. overweight)

CO-FEATURE – BANTAMWEIGHTS (8)
Edgar “Power” Jimenez (21-11-2, 15 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico 118.4 lbs.
Jovylito “J-Flash” Aligarbes (12-3, 6 KOs), Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines lbs. 118.4 lbs.

JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHTS (10)
Ivan “Zurdo” ALVAREZ (23-5, 16 KOs), Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico 140 lbs.
Jose “Piston” Lopez (25-4-2, 15 KOs), Torreon, Coahuliacle Zaragoza, Mexico 141.1 lbs.

FEMALE SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS (10)
Irma “Torbellino” Garcia (13-1-1, 2 KOs), Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico 119 lbs.
Miriam “La Patrona” Avila (5-6, 2 KOs), Tlalnepantia, Mexico 121.2 lbs.

WHAT: “Cancun Boxing: Knockout’s On Fire”

WHEN: Saturday, June 4

WHERE: Grand Oasis Cancun Hotel Complex in Cancun, Mexico

PROMOTER: Pepe Gomez Boxing

BROADCAST: CBS Sports Network, digital delay, dates & times of airings to be announced soon

ANNOUNCERS: Jim “JR” Ross & Al Bernstein

INFORMATION

Twitter: @pepegomezcancun, @Neonstarmedia

Instagram: @pepegomez1

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/pepigomezquiqui, www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media-378687919005532/

MONTE CARLO, Monaco (June 3, 2016)- The World Mixed Martial Arts Association (WMMAA), Pan American Division has appointed Chile to host the inaugural Pan American championship October 7-9 in Santiago, Chile.

“We chose Chile for political, economic and social stability,” said Tomas Yu, President of the WMMAA Pan-American Division. “In Latin American, context of things were not going very well, and our decision was to appoint Chile to organize it. We had a tremendous turnout and the WMMAA PANAM was more than well received.”

Yu recently made the official announcement of Chile being the newest WMMAA member, as well as host of the 2016 Pan-American Championship during his visit to Santiago this week.

Seven-time MMA champion Eric “The Tiger” Castaños, who accompanied Yu, was appointed Honorary President of the Chilean MMA Federation. “I have fought for this country,” Castaños remarked, “this country has fought for me”

“It is an honor and a challenge, both having been chosen as the host country and, of course, we will live up to such an important event like the Pan-Am Championships,” WMMAA Chile President Alberto Maturana commented.

WMMAA attorney and vice president of Chile, Christian Parra, also noted, “It is an honor to be able to form the first national MMA team in history of both the sport and Chile. There is no doubt that Chile will place among the best this year.”

In a recent survey, conducted by the auditing firm of Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu Limited (also called Deloitte), indicates that wrestling and martial arts are the fastest growing markets of sport, even beating more traditional sports like soccer.

Companies around the world have started to invest in MMA, rather than investing in traditional sports like soccer. In the last 12 months, the same study indicates that products and retail brands from other sectors related to MMA showed growth of more than 30-percent in sales.

Mixed Martial Arts today are the fastest growing sport in the world, widely shifting to boxing and generating more foreign exchange in the United States than classic sports like the National Basketball Association.

MMA is a strictly regulated sport that combines the most effective techniques of all traditional martial arts and sports of modern combat, including Karate, Boxing, Taekwondo, Capoeira, sanshou, WingChun, WingTsun, Jeet Kune Do, Muay Thai, Judo, Hapkido, Jujitsu, Kickboxing, Wrestling Olympic, San Shou San Da, Jujutsu, shoot-fighting, Sambo and among hybrids are Miletick Fighting Systems combat systems, Russian Vale-tudo, Pit-fighting, Taeki-do, Kenpo, JeetKune do, Karate Gojuryu, and Kajukendo.

WMMAA is the future of MMA! Today it governs with a strict regulation that protects the integrity of the athlete, while ensuring public entertainment.

MMA is fought in a cage in which competitors must have proficiency in three combat disciplines, plus a very full fitness, a specifically balanced diet that allows them to absorb shock, cushion falls, defend Force , flexibility and agility are the essential physical qualities; And, perseverance, courage, a good heart, a lucid mind and spirituality foolproof.

WMMAA judges are highly qualified, internationally recognized and certified, according to WMMAA official regulations, and with an unbiased database of international officials.

Information

www.WMMAA.org
https://www.facebook.com/WMMAA-665064310170463/
www.youtube.com/user/TheWMMAA
www.wmmaa-chile.com
-30-

Light heavyweight contender Sullivan Barrera (17-1) has been back in the gym for several weeks as he eagerly awaits the phone call that will give him his next assignment. Barrera is looking to bounce back from his first career loss which took place in March against Andre Ward. There is no shame in losing to a top three pound-for-pound fighter and Barrera is ready for any of the top names in the division.

“I took a couple weeks off after the Ward fight but now I am back at it and ready for the next challenge. I made some mistakes in the Ward fight and we are working on correcting them,” said Barrera.

The 34-year-old Cuban enjoyed a great run with world class trainer Abel Sanchez that included six straight knockout victories. After much thought and consideration, Barrera and his manager Luis Molina decided to enlist the services of Derik Santos. One of the reasons for the move is the close proximity of Santos’ training facility in Boca Raton, Fla. to Barrera’s residence in Miami.

“I want to thank Abel for all that he has done for me. I just feel at this point in time Derik is a better fit for me,” Barrera explained.

Santos may not be as well known as Sanchez, but he has had great success as the former assistant trainer of Sergey Kovalev underneath John David Jackson. He still assists Jackson with Chris Algieri, Curtis Stevens and Bryant Jennings and is the head trainer of several other fighters as well.

The trainer and fighter decided to work with each other for a couple weeks and they clicked so they decided to make the trial run permanent.

“I’d like to thank Luis Molina and Sullivan Barrera for giving me the opportunity to lead the team. As for me, I’ve worked for many years as the main assistant trainer for John David Jackson and for many top contenders and world champions including Sergey Kovalev.

“He is my mentor and I still enjoy a great working relationship with him as well as him being a close friend. I was the assistant trainer for Kovalev for a little over 3 years and was blessed to be able to help him win world championships,” said Santos.

There still isn’t a time table set for Barrera’s return to the ring but he admits to being shocked that he hasn’t received any offers.

“I am ready for any of the top fighters anytime. I am very confident my team will secure a top five opponent but I’m surprised that with my high ranking that no one has reached out to us to make a fight,” Barrera stated.

Saturday’s HBO Boxing After Dark doubleheader telecast begins at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.

Opening up the telecast from the StubHub Center in Carson, CA., is a 10 round featherweight matchup between Julian Ramirez and Abraham Lopez.

The main event of the evening, a 12-round super featherweight title bout, features Francisco Vargas defending his crown against Orlando Salido in what is expected to be all out slugfest.

Official Weights from Carson:

Francisco Vargas: 129.6 lbs.
Orlando Salido: 130 lbs.

Julian Ramirez: 125.4 lbs.
Abraham Lopez: 125.6 lbs.

Join the conversation on Twitter: #VargasSalido

MAIN EVENT – VACANT M-1 GLOBAL LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP – 5 X 5
ALEXANDER “Iron Capture” BUTENKO (40-11-2, M-1: 7-1-0), Ukraine 154 ½ lbs. (70.3 kg)
vs.
ARTIOM DAMKOVSKY (20-9-0, M-1: 10-6-0), Belarus 154 ½ lbs. (70.2 kg)

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
IVAN “Buki” BUCHINGER (30-4-0, M-1: 5-0-0), Slovakia 144 lbs. (65.6 kg)
vs.
MIKHAIL KOROBKOV (9-1-1, M-1: 0-1-0), Russia 145 lbs. (65.8 kg)

WELTERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
SHAVKAT RAKHMONOV (5-0-0, M-1: 3-0-0), Kazakhstan 169 lbs. (76.8 kg)
vs.
MARCELO BRITO (13-7-0, M-1: 0-1-0), Brazil 169 lbs. (76.8 kg)

MIDDLEWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
TALEKH NADZHFADE (4-1-0, M-1: 1-0-0), Czech Republic 184 lbs. (83.6 kg)
vs.
FELIPE “Biggi” NSUE (11-9-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Spain 182 lbs. (82.8 kg)

HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
ZAUR GADZHIBABAYEV (4-1-0, M-1: 2-0-0), Czech Republic 256 ½ lbs. (116.5 kg)
vs.
LAZAR TODEV (2-2-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 223 lbs. (101.3 kg)

PRELIMINARY CARD

LIGHTWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
ZALIMBEG OMAROV (6-1-1, M-1: 3-0-1), Russia 140 ½ lbs. (63.9 kg)
vs.
MIKHAIL SYRBU (4-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Moldova, 139 lbs. (63.3 kg)

HEAVYWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
EVGENI MYAKINKIN (13-5-0, M-1: 1-1-0), Russia, 223 ½ lbs. (101.5 kg)
vs.
EVGENI GURYANOV (8-5-0, M-1: 1-2-0), Ukraine, 222 ½ lbs. (101.0 kg)

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
BAIR SHTEPIN (3-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia, 134 ½ lbs. (61.2 kg)
vs.
AZAMAT ZHANTUDUEV (1-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 134 lbs. lbs. (61.0 kg)

FEATHERWEIGHTS – 3 X 5
VADIM “Bad Santa” MALYGIN (6-1-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia, 134 ½ lbs. (61.0 kg)
vs.
IBRAGIM NAVRUZOV (2-0-0, M-1: 0-0-0), Russia 134 lbs. (61.0 kg)

WHEN: Saturday, June 4, 2016

WHERE: Orenburg City, Russia

PROMOTER: M-1 Global

LIVE STREAM: www.m-1global.tv (11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT in USA)

Information

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

Twitter & Instagram:

@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/M-1-GlobalNews

Bristol, PA (June 3, 2016) – THIS Saturday night June 4th, a brand new boxing series will be launched as D and D Promotions presents its inaugural “Rumble at the Rink” Boxing series that will take place at The Grundy Arena in Bristol, Pa.

Scheduled to appear in the eight-round main event will be super middleweight Derrick Webster taking on Lenwood Dozier (9-10-2, 4 KO’s)

Webster of Glassboro, New Jersey has a record of 19-1 with 10 knockouts and will be looking to get back in the win column after an eleven-month layoff.

Webster won his first nineteen bouts, which was highlighted by a 22-second knockout over 23-1 Obodai Sai. He is coming off his first professional blemish when he lost a unanimous decision to undefeated Arif Magomedov on July 17, 2015.

Webster has been keeping busy since the loss as he appeared in the critically acclaimed “Creed” movie and is he got a co-starring role in the yet-to-be-released film “Bad Boxer.”

Yet, with all that he has going on, Webster has been thinking about his ring return.

“I never have had my fire un-lit. That fight with Magomedov, there was a lot going on. I had to lose about 40 pounds. The fight was on and off several times, so most of my camp, I was trying to lose weight. I made a mistake trying to fight at 160 pounds. That fight was over before it started. I wanted to rematch him and the way that I look at it is that he wasn’t more talented, he was just healthier going into the fight,” said Webster.

Webster says that he won’t go below 163 pounds.

“I have to get the fights where It’s healthy for me. I still am having trouble getting fights. It’s been this way since the beginning being that I am a tall southpaw.”

In the time off, Webster has had time to work on his growing portfolio. He has several successful business ventures.

“I am the bank,” continued Webster as was referencing his “Take it to Bank” nickname. “I own 2 home improvement businesses, a property management business, I act, I model and I sing.”

“I have been working hard. Despite the loss, I know I am the baddest southpaw around and he has not fought anyone like me.”

Scenes from this fight will be filmed for “Bad Boxer.”

In Dozier, he will be facing a battle tested veteran who has faced former world champion Yuri Foreman, as well as top prospects Javier Molina, Patrick Day, Prichard Colon, Yudel Jhonson &Jose Peralta Alejo.

Also scheduled to appear will be super welterweight Elijah Vines (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia taking on Jordan Rosario(0-4) of Jersey City, NJ.

Super bantamweight Vidal Rivera (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Camden, New Jersey taking on Brian Santos (0-0-1) of Vaja Baja, Puerto Rico.

Two-time National Golden Gloves champion Mike Hilton (1-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia will fight Dave Valekyo (4-7) out or Neptune, NJ,

There will be 6 high-level amateur bouts.

Tickets for this special evening are Tickets for this special evening are $150 (VIP–Food and beverage is included), $100, $75, $50 & $30 and can be purchased by calling Dave Price at 267-246-7182 or Doc Nowicki at 609-923-3982

The Grundy Arena is located at 475 Beaver Street in Bristol, PA

At today’s official weigh-in at the Bierkeller in Liverpool, undefeated WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith and Montenegrin challenger Predrag Radosevic both hit the weight on the scales ahead of tomorrow’s world title showdown at the Echo Arena.

Scouse hero Smith, 22-0-1 12 KO’s, and WBO European Champion Radosevic, 30-1-0 11KO’s, headline tomorrow’s mouth-watering night of action, live and exclusive on BoxNation. Smith, who makes the second defence of his world title, hit the scales bang on 11 stone while his challenger Radosevic came in at 11 stone 13lbs.

Speaking afterwards Smith said: “All the talking is over and now it’s time to get it on in the ring. I’ve put everything into my training and I’m looking forward to retaining my world title in front of my home crowd at the Echo Arena.”

Radosevic said: “My training camp has gone perfectly and now I’m ready to get in the ring and become a world champion. I’ve not come all this way to leave empty-handed. I’m fighting Smith in his own city but I’ll be taking the belt home with once I’ve beaten him.”

EBU European Bantamweight Champion Ryan Farrag tipped the scales at 8 stone 6lbs ahead of his first defence of the title against Karim Guerfi. The French mandatory challenger, 23-3-0 6 KO’s, also hit the scales at 8 stone 6lbs.

South African IBF International Bantamweight Champion Zolani Tete came in at 8 stone 5lbs ahead of his defence against Mexico’s Victor Ruiz. Challenger Ruiz, 21-5-0 15 KO’s, came in slightly lighter at 8 stone 4lbs.

Also weighing in at the Bierkeller was Liverpool’s Tom Stalker who challenges Antonio Joao Bento for the Vacant WBO Lightweight Championship. ‘The Captain’ weighed in at 9 stone 8lbs with Bento coming in at the same weight.

NEW YORK (June 2, 2016) – WBC No. 5-ranked lightweight contender Franklin Mamani will face No. 1-ranked lightweight Dejan Zlaticanin for the vacant WBC 135-pound title on Saturday,June 11, live on SHOWTIME (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

Mamani (21-2-1, 12 KOs), who is the leading available contender in the WBC rankings, replaces the injured Emiliano Marsili, who pulled out of the fight on Tuesday with an illness.

Mamani, of La Paz, Bolivia, was in camp training to fight Chad Bennet for the WBC Silver Lightweight World Title in early July. Now, the 29-year-old Mamani gets a shot at the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship in his U.S. debut. The aggressive-minded Mamani has won 10 straight, including his last three by knockout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions, Inc., are priced at $85, $60, $45 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

In the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event, Ruslan Provodnikov (25-4, 18 KOs), a former WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion, and former world title challenger John Molina (28-6, 23 KOs), of West Covina, Calif., will face-off in a 12-round super lightweight bout. In the June 11 co-feature, undefeated former 154-pound world champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs), of Providence, R.I., will face Willie Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator.

Also on June 11, former world title challengers, Willie Monroe Jr, (19-2-0, 6 KOs), and John Thompson, (17-2-0, 6 KOs,) will meet in a 10-round middleweight bout in the main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME® (7 p.m. ET/PT). In the SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME® opener, heavyweight Andrey Fedosov (28-3, 23 KOs) takes on Mario Heredia (11-1, 9 KOs, 1-2 in WSB) in a 10-round heavyweight bout.

Turning Stone Resort Casino is no stranger to hosting high caliber nationally televised boxing events. Last year, Turning Stone hosted the epic battle between Provodnikov and Matthysee, selected over arenas in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami. When Provodnikov returns to Turning Stone on June 11th, it will mark Turning Stone’s 18th nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a mecca for knockout fights. Located in Upstate New York, Turning Stone is an award-winning destination resort, offering world-class amenities including four hotels, 21 restaurants and dining options, two luxurious spas, five beautiful golf courses, and several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

Visit Banner Promotions at www.banner-promotions.com, follow on Twitter at @BannerBoxing, follow on Instagram at @BannerBoxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions, follow on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/banner-promotions-inc-?trk=biz-companies-cym, and watch on Youtube at www.youtube.com/user/bannervideo.

For Turning Stone Resort Casino: www.turningstone.com ; Twitter: @turningstone ; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort/

PETER RIVERA: It is an incredible fight for Rocky Martinez. It has been an opportunity we have been looking for a long time. As everyone knows, Rocky Martinez has already been a world champion three times. He has a lot of experience and he has been looking for this type of opportunity. Being the main event on HBO will give him a lot of exposure and a win over Lomachenko will be incredible for his career. In our camp, we are really confident about this fight — confident that we can win this fight. Rocky is the bigger guy and the guy with the experience and he is hungry. Also to fight on the weekend of the Puerto Rican Day Parade is an incredible thing for Rocky Martinez.

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I think it is a great fight for me. Many people don’t believe that I can beat this guy but I feel that I am the man in this fight. I am the stronger guy and have the experience and I prepare myself very well physically and mentally and I am ready for this fight.

What kind of challenges does Lomachenko bring to the ring?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I think he will come into the fight and try to move a lot and try to box a lot and try to make me look bad in front of my people. But I have made all of the adjustments for that and I will be ready for him.

How do you feel fighting as the main event on Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I am very happy to be on this show on the day before the Puerto Rican Day Parade and to fight in New York is incredible. I will win the fight on Saturday and give the victory to all of my Puerto Rican fans — I’m very happy

Is this the biggest fight of your career?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: This is one of the biggest fights. I think this will be the fight that really helps me to go to another level. It is not an impossible fight for me. I think I can win this fight.

You had an injury prior to you last scheduled fight. Are you 100% now?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I feel fine with my hands and everything is OK right now. These things happen in boxing. You use your hands all the time in boxing so it is very common that something like this can happen. I am ready and I am 100% for the fight on June 11.

PETER RIVERA: We had a mandatory fight against Miguel Berchelt and the fight didn’t happen so Berchelt fought for the interim world title and won. Berchelt became an Interim World Champion and is no longer the mandatory challenger. As an interim champion he will fight the champion at some time but not urgently. Bob and HBO came with this opportunity and we liked it and we said let’s make this fight happen, then if we need to fight Berchelt we will fight him.

Who do you think will win Salido-Vargas?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: It’s definitely going to be a great fight — two warriors in the ring. These two guys will leave everything in the ring that night and it is a very even fight. I don’t really have a winner. It’s a very even fight.

Do you think Vargas should be in the fight since he failed the drug test?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I don’t really have anything to say about that. I really don’t know what is going on with the guy. I don’t know who can get affected. Maybe Salido can get affected or if Vargas’ team knows what they are doing. But I don’t really have anything to say about that situation.

All the talk about Lomachenko and the chance for him to make history…does that motivate you?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I am only thinking about beating him. I don’t care if I stop his dreams or whatever. I just have in my mind that I have to beat him and to be ready to beat him and I’m sure that I’m going to win the fight. I don’t care right now if he is thinking that he is going to make history or something like that.

You have been boxing more technically in the past couple of fights. Are you going to go back to being a pressure fighter again?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I am going to fight smart. I am going to box when I have to box and I am going to pressure him also. I know that Lomachenko knows how to hold and he knows how evade punches to get good position and get me out of good position. We are working on a full plan against Lomachenko.

You have had some trouble making the weight in your last couple of fights. How is that now?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: That fight was in Las Vegas. This fight is much closer to Puerto Rico. I can fly in for this fight on Tuesday and get accustomed to the new surroundings. It is easier for me to make weight because I am in Puerto Rico longer. That is the best thing about this fight for me.

Did you learn anything watching the last Lomachenko fight?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Yes, the key to the fight is not letting Lomachenko think. You have to pressure him and attack him because he is a very good technical boxer and he knows how to attack. So when he wants to come in you have to be smart about it and let him come in and exchange but the key is attacking the body and not let him think.

What do you think about the comments made by Lomachenko on Wednesday?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Lomachenko can say whatever he wants. I just prepare myself for this fight. I am ready. He can feel confident but I am very confident. I am the champion and I will be ready for the fight on Saturday, June 11

How was training camp and sparring with Jose Pedraza?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: One of the best things that happened to me was having Jose Pedraza as a sparring partner. He really helped me a lot. He’s a great fighter and we worked very hard all training camp and once again it’s great to have a fighter like him to help me. I will have no excuses on June 11. I am 100% ready and I’m very confident that I’m going to win this fight. He helped me a lot.

ROCKY MARTINEZ: We worked on a lot of different things that are part of my plan for this fight so I can’t really say too much about it because basically that is my fight plan. We worked on a lot of ideas and we practiced a lot of things and everyone will see it on Saturday, June 11.

If your opponent failed a drug test, would you continue with the fight?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: It would definitely be an illegal fight if that happened. Maybe I wouldn’t fight a guy that failed a drug test but you never know, this is a business and people are paying money and maybe they are paying more money than you would get otherwise so that affects it.

PETER RIVERA: Definitely it depends upon the kind of drug test that the guy really failed. As a promoter, I would look at how much of an advantage the drug would give the fighter. Maybe it’s the kind of drug that he is using to lose weight. I would check the kind of drug that it is and why the guy is using it and based on that I would make a decision. But in this sport we don’t need these types of decisions. It’s really weird because Vargas was the one saying to Salido about this [testing], then he is the one that it happened to.

So you understand why Salido went forward with the fight?

PETER RIVERA: Yes.

Do you have drug testing for this fight?

PETER RIVERA: For this fight we have the testing that the commission does before and after the fight.

Where does Lomachenko rank among your opponents?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: He is one of the best fighters that I will fight in my life. He’s a great fighter and he is on the top of my list.

What would it mean to win this fight, it being Puerto Rican weekend on top of it being Lomachenko?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: It will be a great victory for me and for my country. All of my fellow Puerto Rican fighters like Tito Trinidad and Miguel Cotto have fought on that day. For me it will be a great victory to beat Lomachenko on the day before the Puerto Rican Day Parade.

Will you watch the Vargas-Salido fight?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I hope to watch it if I don’t fall asleep because I go to bed early. But if I go to bed early I will record it and watch it the next day so I may not see it live but I will see it.

Where does Rocky stand in Puerto Rican boxing lore?

PETER RIVERA: Everybody knows that Puerto Rico has a big boxing culture and everybody knows the fighters on the island because Rocky has been a world champion three times. It’s very difficult to be a world champion once so just imagine how hard it is to be champion three times. People recognize him as a great fighter and someone that has a lot of guts and a guy that leaves everything in the ring. That’s why people love him a lot. He is also a humble person and a nice guy so people like him a lot and all of Puerto Rico will be supporting him on June 11.

Is there an issue with Rocky’s weight?

PETER RIVERA: No, no one has asked that and no, we don’t have problem with that. He answered that question in Puerto Rico yesterday about what Lomachenko said, but Rocky is a professional guy and he’s been at 130 his whole life. He is already 135 so he is very close to the weight so he is doing very well. We don’t see any problem at the weigh-in on June 10, the day before the fight. Whoever is talking about that rumor — it is not really true — we don’t have any problem. Not with us.

Do you think Rocky would do what Salido did – try to rough Lomachenko up a little bit?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: No, no ,no, I’m not going to do that. I have my own fight plan for that night and of course I can’t tell you what I am going to do because that is part of my plan but I don’t plan on doing anything like that.

Do you consider yourself or Pedraza the best 130-pounder in Puerto Rico?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Both of us are great champions. We have different styles so we are different fighters so I can’t tell you who is the best between us.

Is that a fight that could happen — a title unification?

ROCKY MARTINEZ: I don’t really think that I could fight him in the future. I think he is the only fighter that I would not fight because we are really close friends. I understand this is a business but that is one fight I would not take.

In closing…

ROCKY MARTINEZ: Once again I am very happy for this opportunity and on June 11 boxing fans and all fans in Puerto Rico will see me as world champion again and I will remain champion on that night.

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

Three-time world champion ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ (29-2-3, 17 KOs), from Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, and World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight world champion VASYL LOMACHENKO (5-1, 3 KOs), of Odessa, Ukraine, will go mano a mano for Martinez’s WBO junior lightweight world title and the boxing gem of Puerto Rico, FELIX “El Diamante” VERDEJO (21-0, 14 KOs), of San Juan, Puerto Rico, will risk his WBO Latino lightweight crown, undefeated record and No. 2 world rating against JUAN JOSE MARTINEZ (25-2, 17 KOs), of Mexico City, Mexico, in the co-main event of a championship doubleheader Next Saturday! June 11 — one day before the famed Puerto Rican Day Parade — at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The two bouts, scheduled for 12 and 10 rounds, respectively, will be televised live on HBO beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The non-televised undercard will feature the U.S. debut of two-time Olympic gold medalist and three-time World Amateur Champion ZOU SHIMING (7-1, 2 KOs), from The Peoples Republic of China. Zou will be defending his WBO International flyweight title and No. 2 world rating in a 10-round bout against JOZSEF AJTAI (15-2, 10 KOs), of Hungary.

The six gladiators boast a combined record of 102-8-3 (63 KOs) — a winning percentage of 90% with over 60% of their victories coming by way of knockout.

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with Puerto Rican Best Boxing, Diamante Promotions, SECA and Madison Square Garden, remaining tickets to the Martinez vs. Lomachenko / Verdejo vs. Martinez championship doubleheader are priced at $300, $200, $100, $50 and $35. Tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008), and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com, or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, or twitter.com/hboboxing.

LONDON (3 JUNE) Undefeated heavyweight Nathan Gorman, great-nephew of Bartley Gorman, the ‘King of the Gypsies’, is seasoned beyond his nineteen years and, on July 9 at the Manchester Arena, will use all his fighting DNA to impress his biggest audience yet.

Born and raised to fight, Gorman now stands at six-foot-four, weighs eighteen stone, is unbeaten in four professional bouts, and intends to make it five from five on the undercard of the world heavyweight championship blockbuster between Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for me, a great platform,” he says. “I’ll be boxing in front of loads of people and everybody at home will be watching this event. It’s mad to think I’m now part of it. It’s a great chance to make a statement and get noticed by a lot of people; I plan on taking it with both hands.

“I’ve imagined what it will feel like every day. I have no idea what it will actually feel like, though. I just have to believe that a ring’s a ring and a crowd’s a crowd and, once I’m in there, I’ll be able to blank out my surroundings and get down to business. I’ve got a job to do. Even if I was fighting in my back garden, I’d still to look to put on a show.”

Everywhere Gorman looks, he tends to find inspiration. Tyson Fury, a distant relative, is his favourite fighter, and a man he considers the blueprint, while Ricky Hatton, his coach, was once one of Britain’s finest world champions and a man well-accustomed to dazzling sold-out crowds at the Manchester Arena.

“Ricky, in terms of big fight night experience, is second to none,” says Gorman. “He’s the best. You couldn’t ask for a better guy to have in your corner when fighting at the Manchester Arena. It was basically his second home.

“Not only that, every day I’m in the gym with Ricky I’m learning something new. He gives me so much confidence. I’m just happy he believes in me. We both believe I can go all the way.”

Gorman first went to the boxing gym at the age of eight, though admits the sole intention was to “mess about”, before trying again at fifteen, this time with a greater degree of seriousness. It wasn’t long – just eleven bouts, in fact – before he was winning the Junior ABAs and making his mark at the World Youth Championships.

“I achieved a lot in those eleven amateur fights but always knew I was going to gain more experience as a pro,” he says. “I’ve had four fights since December. I’ve been busy. It’s also more suited to me, style-wise, to be a pro and learn as a pro. That’s why I made the switch from the amateurs to the pros at a young age.”

On July 9 at a packed-out Manchester Arena he’ll embark on the next phase in his development. He’ll be asked to hold it together in front of thousands of fans eager to see him live up to the Gorman surname.

“Travellers are excelling in the pro game right now and I’m looking to continue that success,” says Gorman. “We’ve got two world champions (Tyson Fury and Billy Joe Saunders) in two of boxing’s best weight divisions (heavyweight and middleweight), and Hughie Fury is also on the verge of a world title shot in the next twelve months. We’ve got other traveller lads coming through as well. It’s all looking good.

“Fighting is part of us all. We’re brought up with it. My uncle was Bartley Gorman. I come from fighting stock.”

As for the July 9 main event, Gorman, of course, sees only one winner.

“I reckon Tyson will stop Klitschko late on, probably in round ten or eleven,” he predicts. “I think there will be more action this time because Tyson now knows Wladimir’s style and he’ll take confidence from beating him in November. I think he’ll set out to hurt him in the rematch.

“I like watching Tyson at present. He’s a character, you don’t know which version of him will be in the ring – southpaw or orthodox. Tyson has brought the division back to life and it’s an exciting time to heavyweight.”

*** For tickets to REPEAT OR REVENGE: Fury vs. Klitschko 2, please visit eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000 ***

FOLLOW US ON ON TWITTER @HENNESSYSPORTS
For more information on Hennessy Sports:

www.hennessysports.com

FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS VISIT WWW.HENNESSYSPORTS.COM

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (June 3, 2016) – Tonight at the Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Florida, Rances Barthelemy will defend his IBF Lightweight championship against former champion Mickey Bey.

That fight will headline a card that will be live on SPIKE at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT

In an undercard bout, featherweight Dat Nguyen (18-3, 6 KO’s) will make his second start in under a month when he takes on Jesus Lule (8-17-1, 1 KO) in a bout scheduled for six-rounds.

Nguyen is promoted by King’s Promotions.

At Thursday’s weigh in, Nguyen checked in at 128.6 lbs. while Lule was 130.2

Nguyen of Vero Beach, Florida is coming right back into action after a six-round unanimous decision over Gustavo Molina on May 8th in Lakeland, Florida.

Nguyen won for the first time in almost seven years and he is now looking towards a run in the featherweight division.

“Everything is good. After the last fight, I went right back into training,”said Nguyen.

Nguyen admits that he wanted to make up for lost time in the fight against Molina, and despite the win, he was not totally happy with his performance.

“I was trying too hard to make a big impression. I was trying too hard for the knockout plus Molina was durable, but I won all the rounds and I felt good in the ring.”

After not having his hand raised for so long, Nguyen has a lot of confidence as he moves forward.

“It is good to have that winning feeling again. In this fight, I am looking to establish the jab. I have been training with Nelson Lopez, and it is going really well. This is the first time that I have trained away from my home in Vero Beach as I am in Pahokee, Florida. I just want to thank my fans for all the support. I am expecting to put on a good show and the fans know that there is never a dull moment in my fights.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Kings Promotions, Mayweather Promotions, and Panther Promotions, are priced at $130, $80, $60, and $35 (additional fees may apply) and are on sale now. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com,www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the first fight set to begin at 6:30 p.m.

Fight Night – Premier Boxing Champions

Location:Hard Rock Live

4:30 p.m.Credential Pick-Up Opens*
5:30 p.m.Doors Open at Hard Rock Live
6:30 p.m.First fight begins
9:00 p.m.SPIKE telecast begins

*Credential Pick Up will take place from 4:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. the credentials table will be set up in the Hard Rock Box Office. It is located in the outdoor section near the VIP entrance to the arena.

Proper personal photo identification (driver’s license or passport) is required for credential pick-up.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Kings Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and Panther Promotions, are priced at $130, $80, $60 and $35 and are on sale now. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com,www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with the first fight set to begin at 6:30 p.m. *Additional fees may apply

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @RealKidBlast, @MickeyBeyTMT, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports, @KingsBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @PantherPromo and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and
www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.

Dashon Johnson 162.9 DeCarlo Perez 162.2

Henry Beckford 166.9 Jaba Khositashvili 166.5

Osnel Charles 137.3 Steven Ortiz 137.6

Ray Lopez 251.3 Cassius Chaney 237.3

Jaron Ennis 144.2 Alfred Hall 145.4

LeShawn Rodriguez 157.8 Phil LeGrand 156.9

Jamil Gadsden 160.8 Isaiah Wise 162.4

Jerome Conquest 137.9 Korey Sloane 136.2

Gene Gonzales 111.9 Chayanne Rivera 112.4

Venue: 2300 Arena

Tickets are priced at $40, $50, and $75. Available online at wanatix.com or by phone 215-765-0922. Doors open at 6PM. First fight 7PM.

Follow @PeltzBoxing @BAMRogers @JoeHandPromo

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (June 2, 2016) –

Rances Barthelemy 134.6 – Mickey Bey 134.2
(IBF Lightweight championship)
Caleb Plant 163.8 – Carlos Galvan 162.4
Emmanuel Ridriguez 119.4 – Alberto Guevara 119.8
Gervonta Davis 135.6 – Mario Macias Rorozco 132.8
Steve Geffard 177.2 – Samuel Miller 181.6
Dyah Davis 172.8 – Leosvy Mayedo 175.8
Courtney Jackson 141.8 – Anthony Woods 142.6
Dat Nguyen 128.6 – Jesus Lule 130.2
Antonio Williams 127.8 – Hector Fernandez 128.6
LaTondria Jones 155 – Latoya Burton 151.2

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Kings Promotions, Mayweather Promotions, and Panther Promotions, are priced at $130, $80, $60, and $35 (additional fees may apply) and are on sale now. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com,www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the first fight set to begin at 6:30 p.m.

Fight Night – Premier Boxing Champions

Location:Hard Rock Live

4:30 p.m.Credential Pick-Up Opens*
5:30 p.m.Doors Open at Hard Rock Live
6:30 p.m.First fight begins
9:00 p.m.SPIKE telecast begins

*Credential Pick Up will take place from 4:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. the credentials table will be set up in the Hard Rock Box Office. It is located in the outdoor section near the VIP entrance to the arena.

Proper personal photo identification (driver’s license or passport) is required for credential pick-up.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Kings Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and Panther Promotions, are priced at $130, $80, $60 and $35 and are on sale now. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com,www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with the first fight set to begin at 6:30 p.m. *Additional fees may apply

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @RealKidBlast, @MickeyBeyTMT, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports, @KingsBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @PantherPromo and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and
www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.

NEW YORK (June 2, 2016) – Ruslan “The Siberian Rocky” Provodnikov and John “The Gladiator” Molina Jr., along with Demetrius “Boo Boo” Andrade and Willie “The Great” Nelson, hosted an International Media Conference Call on Tuesday in advance of their highly anticipated battles as part of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® tripleheader live on SHOWTIME® (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from the Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, N.Y.

Also taking part was Arthur Pelullo, President of Banner Promotions, and SHOWTIME Sports Executive Vice President and General Manager Stephen Espinoza.

Provodnikov (25-4, 18 KOs), a former WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion, and former world title challenger Molina (28-6, 23 KOs), of West Covina, Calif., will face each other in the 12-round main event. In the co-feature, undefeated former 154-pound world champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Demetrius Andrade (22-0, 15 KOs), of Providence, R.I., will face Willie Nelson (25-2-1, 15 KOs) of Cleveland, Ohio, in a 12-round WBC Super Welterweight Title Eliminator.

Opening the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader is a battle for the vacant WBC Lightweight World Championship between No. 1 ranked Dejan Zlaticanin (17-0, 10 KOs), of the Southeastern European country of Montenegro, against WBC No. 5 ranked contender Franklin Mamani (21-2-1, 12 KOs) of La Paz, Bolivia.

Also on June 11, former world title challengers, Willie Monroe Jr, (19-2-0, 6 KOs), and John Thompson, (17-2-0, 6 KOs,) will meet in a 10-round middleweight bout in the main event on SHOWTIME EXTREME® (7 p.m. ET/PT). In the SHOWTIME BOXING on SHO EXTREME® opener, heavyweight Andrey Fedosov (28-3, 23 KOs) takes on Mario Heredia (11-1, 9 KOs, 1-2 in WSB) in a 10-round heavyweight bout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions, Inc., are priced at $85, $60, $45 and $35 and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com).

Below is what the boxers said Tuesday on the conference call:

RUSLAN “THE SIBERIAN ROCKY” PROVODNIKOV
“I will try to not disappoint anyone and try to bring my best on June 11. I don’t like to make any predictions. Boxing is very unpredictable; anything can happen on June 11. We’ve got a little bit to wait until fight night and for me it’s just important to win the fight.

“I am very thankful for everyone who has made this fight happen. I am pleased with the opponent that I have because John Molina is a tough fighter. It’s going to be a tough fight and I am looking for it to be a battle. So everybody be ready because on June 11 it will be a great fight.”

JOHN “THE GLADIATOR” MOLINA JR.

(On how he feels fighting someone who is going to force the fight like himself)
“For me, in a perfect world, I would have a guy right there to exchange with me but Ruslan and his team have been around the game a long time. They know that I’m a puncher. I anticipate Ruslan to do what he does best, which is sit there and fight but I also anticipate him also utilizing his boxing ability given his amateur pedigree and his experience in the pro game. We’re prepared for any Ruslan whether he tries to get up and box or whether he sits there and bangs. We know he’s a strong fighter. We know he’s a strong puncher and we’re prepared for that. Ruslan is going to be Ruslan and he’s going to sit down and fight with me.”

(On how he mentally prepares for fights)
“I have no other way. You look at my fights and the outcome, we have that fighter spirit in us. If we’re being cordial, it’s because we’re professional. It’s what we do for a living. If we take it outside of the ring that’s very ignorant and not very mature. Believe me, I understand and know, and Ruslan understands and knows, that come June 11 all of the kindness goes out the window. After the fight we could be best of friends. But during the fight, I always use the example that he’s trying to take something away from my family. So, it’s very serious business inside that ring. Outside the ring, I don’t want to waste energy or negative feelings toward anybody. This is what I do for a living. I have a competitive spirit, I don’t even like to lose in checkers.

“I have had a very successful career in boxing and I’m looking forward to making an even better one come June 11. Every fight is serious, and remember, I’ve been playing this game since I was 24 years old and I only had 22 amateur fights so essentially my amateur career was in the pro game. Whether the fights I’ve had are a loss or a win, I’ve always gained experience and I have become a better fighter because of it. I’m just getting warmed up and the fight on June 11 is going to catapult me in the right direction.”

DEMETRIUS “BOO BOO” ANDRADE
“The champ is in. The champ is in. I feel good. I’m grateful. I want to thank SHOWTIME for giving me the opportunity to showcase my skill and talent on this June 11 card, especially with the Hall of Fame going on. It is a big main event between Provodnikov and John Molina; two guys that are going to back up and give some good entertainment. In my eyes, Willie Nelson and Demetrius Andrade is the number one 154 fight that you don’t want to miss leading up to fighting for a title shot for the WBC against a Charlo brother (Jermell).”

(On how it felt to be inactive for so long)
“I’ve been staying busy, staying focused knowing that there’s a bigger picture at the end of the day. All great legends and all Hall of Fame fighters have their story lines. My time is coming around. The tables are turning and people are going to have to step up and fight each other in one way or another. Sometimes, where you are in life is more conducive than your bank account. So, I’m not upset, or mad or frustrated with a thing that is going on and how everything played out.

“At this point, there is a lesson in everything that you go through in life and I learned my lesson through that point in time. Me trying to be frustrated and take it out on people, no, I took it out in the ring.”

(Thoughts on Willie Nelson)
“I’ve seen him in the amateur program. I’ve seen him fight tough guys that are top guys today. I know he’s bringing that experience. He’s fought previous fighters that I’ve fought. I know I’m going up against a giant but I consider myself a giant as well and it’s going to be a great matchup, a great fight for the 154 (division). I feel that it is one of the best fights in the 154 division that has ever been made.

“Not looking past Willie Nelson but me, my character, my hard work and my ethics, I’m looking to be the best and fight the best out there. I want to put out there and say congratulations to the Charlo twins on making history for being twin brothers to win (titles). But I’m going to make history by taking both of those titles and beating both of them.

(On what it was like to be stripped of a title)
“A belt doesn’t identify me. That doesn’t change anything about me, my fight style, who I am or anything like that. Nowadays you don’t have to have a title to be king of the ring but this is an opportunity for me to get back in the likes of fighting with the WBC. Fighting on the SHOWTIME June 11 card is going to be good movement for me. As far as boxing, the days are coming back where the champ is fighting the best.”

WILLIE “THE GREAT” NELSON
“This is Willie Nelson, one of the top contenders for the 154-pound division. I’m excited for this fight. I think that both of us feel like this fight right here is going to be the shot that both of us have been looking for. I feel like this is my time right now. With me and Boo Boo’s past history, unfortunately we have to come to this fight. We’re pretty cool as friends but it’s our time so we have to get in there and show the world what we’re made of.”

(On the reasoning behind the lengthy layoff)
“One of the reasons was because of the death of Steve Smith but also because it is hard getting fights. Nobody wants to fight a 6-foot, 4-inch junior middleweight that’s actually coming to fight and that has decent pop. Besides that, look at my career. My career has been nothing but fights and layoffs. I’ve been pro since I was 19 years old and I only have 27 pro fights. That’s just been my career: fights and layoffs I guess.

“Regardless of who I fight and where I’m fighting, I’m going to give it my all, always. It doesn’t matter what place, what promoter, network or venue. I just perform to the best of my ability and look forward to doing what I do.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President and General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports
(On taking a fighter like Ruslan and what it is about him that attracted SHOWTIME)
“One thing that has characterized Ruslan throughout his career is that he is a fan favorite and that is consistent regardless of what the scorecards are at the end of the fight. As a network executive what we’re looking for is entertaining programming, and fights that people want to see, fights that people talk about, and that is consistently what Ruslan has delivered throughout his career. He is one of those types of fighters who, like John [Molina Jr.] as well, that even if they have a handful of losses on their record, it really doesn’t matter because they are as entertaining and enjoyable to watch as anyone in the sport.

“We try to have a variety of fights; some with really skilled guys, some guys who are really big punchers, a variety of weight classes, a variety of different types of fighters. This is one where it’s not about titles, not about anything but two guys who fight really hard and who give it their all. [It’s about two guys] meeting in the ring to figure out who’s the better boxer on that night.

“This is one way to add a different type of variety to the sport. Once we had the fight at the top of the card we tried to be consistent for the whole card down. If you look at guys like Demetrius and Willie, Dejan and even down to Willie Monroe Jr. and John Thompson, I think that characterizes this as what should be and all-action night.”

(On Demetrius and Willie)
“I give all the credit to Demetrius and Willie for this fight. For Willie on stepping up to this challenge. We have one of the most avoided guys in the division in Demetrius, who’s taking such a tough fight after a relatively long layoff and period of inactivity. It just shows what kind of guys these are and how they are anxious to step up to the next level of their careers.”

ARTHUR PELULLO, President of Banner Promotions
“One thing led to another where we felt that there were more opportunities on SHOWTIME with all of the different fighters…There’s more of an opportunity for Ruslan Provodnikov to show his skills and we were able to go down this road.

“John Molina is the toughest fight right now. This is the fight he has to get by but there is a real opportunity, whether he wins or loses. Both guys have a real opportunity on SHOWTIME because of the pool of talent there.”

Turning Stone Resort Casino is no stranger to hosting high caliber nationally televised boxing events. Last year, Turning Stone hosted the epic battle between Provodnikov and Matthysee, selected over arenas in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami. When Provodnikov returns to Turning Stone on June 11th, it will mark Turning Stone’s 18th nationally-televised boxing event, cementing the resort as a mecca for knockout fights. Located in Upstate New York, Turning Stone is an award-winning destination resort, offering world-class amenities including four hotels, 21 restaurants and dining options, two luxurious spas, five beautiful golf courses, and several bars, cocktail lounges and nightlife venues.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

Visit Banner Promotions at www.banner-promotions.com, follow on Twitter at @BannerBoxing, follow on Instagram at @BannerBoxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BannerPromotions, follow on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/banner-promotions-inc-?trk=biz-companies-cym, and watch on Youtube at www.youtube.com/user/bannervideo.

For Turning Stone Resort Casino: www.turningstone.com ; Twitter: @turningstone ; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TurningStoneResort/

MONTREAL (June 2, 2016) – Heavyweight contender Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas (18-0, 13 KOs) and unbeaten prospect Jamontay “Quiet Assassin” Clark (9-0, 6 KOs) will enter the ring in separate bouts that highlight undercard action on Saturday, June 4 from the Bell Center in Montreal.

Rivas will take on Jeremy “The Beast” Bates (26-17-1, 22 KOs) in an eight-round heavyweight attraction while Clark faces Mexico’s Edgar “Nene” Ortega (16-5, 10 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight contest.

The June 4 event features a Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN doubleheader headlined by the return of light heavyweight knockout artist Artur Beterbiev against Argentine Olympian Ezequiel Maderna. Televised coverage begins at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT with a battle of undefeated welterweights Bryant Perrella and David Grayton.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), are on sale at the Bell Centre box office, on www.evenko.ca, at GYM (514) 383-0666) or at Champion boxing club (514) 376-0980.

Additional undercard action features a slew of Canadian prospects as Quebec’s Sebastien Bouchard (12-1, 4 KOs) faces Belgium’s Arnaid Dimidschtein (11-10-2, 3 KOs) in an eight-round welterweight bout, Montreal’s Vislan Dalkaev (6-0, 2 KOs) battles Mexico’s Javier Franco (25-17, 6 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight contest, Montreal’s Dario Bredicean (8-0, 2 KOs) taking on Hungary’s Balasz Horvath (25-17, 6 KOs) in six rounds of super middleweight action and Toronto’s Parnell Fisher (0-1) against Larami Carmona (1-2) in a four-round featherweight fight.

Rivas, who represented Columbia at the 2008 Olympics has fought most of his pro fights in his adopted hometown of Montreal and will make his 11th appearance at Bell Center on June 4. The 28-year-old is riding a seven-fight knockout streak and most recently took down Joey Abell in the second round of a November 2015 fight. He will take on the West Virginia-born Bates who enters this fight on a four bout win streak.

Clark, a highly-regarded prospect and Cincinnati-native impressed in his hometown last time out by stopping veteran Elvin Perez in the sixth round in February. The 21-year-old is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014. He will take on Ortega out of Torreon, Mexico who has fought professionally since 2012.

For information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.groupeyvonmichel.ca, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @ABeterbiev @@yvonmichelgym, @ESPNBoxing and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/premierboxingchampions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions. PBC on ESPN is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

LOS ANGELES (June 2, 2016) – WBC Super Featherweight World Champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas (23-0-1, 17 KOs) and former three-time world champion Orlando “Siri” Salido (43-13-3, 30 KOs, 1 NC) today hosted the final press conference ahead of their 12-round showdown Saturday, June 4 at the StubHub Center and televised live on HBO® Boxing AfterDark.

They were joined by undefeated Julian “El Camaron” Ramirez (16-0, 8 KOs) and Abraham “Chamaco” Lopez (20-0-1, 15 KOs), who will meet in the ring for the vacant NABA Featherweight Title in the co-main event on June 4. Undercard fighters were also on hand for today’s final press conference including “King”Gabriel Rosado (22-9, 13 KOs) of Philadelphia and Tijuana’s Antonio “Tony” Gutierrez (20-1-1, 9 KOs) who will face off for a 10-round middleweight bout; Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (13-0, 12 KOs) of Buena Park, Calif. who will fight for his first title, the WBC Youth Super Featherweight Title in an eight-round bout; Nick Arce (7-0, 6 KOs) who will battle in a six-round super featherweight bout; Jonathan “Thunder” Navarro (5-0, 4 KOs) who is scheduled for a six-round super lightweight bout; Genaro Gamez (1-0, 1 KO) of San Diego who will fight in a four-round lightweight bout; Oscar Duarte (4-0, 2 KOs) of Parral, Mexico who will face off in a four-round lightweight bout; and Cesar Diaz of Palmdale, Calif. who will make his professional debut.

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s final press conference

FRANCISCO “EL BANDIDO” VARGAS, WBC Super Featherweight World Champion:

“We know that June 4 is nearly here. I know Orlando has trained hard like I have to give the fans a great fight. You definitely do not want to miss this fight.

“If you can’t be there in person, tune in to HBO Boxing After Dark on Saturday night.”

GUILLERMO BECERRIL, Trainer to Francisco Vargas:

“The time is here. We are ready and prepared very well. We will see you on Saturday night.”

RALPH HEREDIA, Manager to Francisco Vargas:

“Thank you to Golden Boy, HBO and the WBC family. I want everyone to know that we respect Salido. He is a great warrior and has been in great fights. We know he will be ready.

“This also shows the commitment HBO has to make great fights with Golden Boy. The fans have responded because this is guaranteed to be an action-packed fight.

Not just as a manager but also as a fan of the sport, I am excited for this fight.”

ORLANDO “SIRI” SALIDO, Former Three-Time World Champion:

“Thank you to Golden Boy, HBO and everyone involved and to Team Vargas for giving me this opportunity. I’m sure I am going to take this title to Ciudad Obregon in Mexico.”

FERNANDO BELTRAN, President and CEO of Zanfer Promotions:

“It’s a real pleasure to be here. This is going to be a war. It’s a tremendous fight. We have a great fighter and a great champion with Orlando Salido. We believe he won the fight against Rocky Martinez.

“We want to bring the belt home. A lot of great Mexicans have had this belt, and Orlando wants to add his name to the list.”

JOSE SANTOS MORENO, Trainer to Orlando Salido:

“With a little luck and a hard training camp, Orlando should be the winner of the fight on Saturday night.”

SEAN GIBBONS, Manager to Orlando Salido:

“Thank you to the best comission in boxing, California State Athletic Commission and Andy Foster. Thank you to HBO and Peter Nelson. Saturday night, Orlando Salido will add his name to list of many great fighters in the sport.”

JULIAN “EL CAMARRON” RAMIREZ, Undefeated Featherweight Contender:

“I’m ready for this fight. I trained hard and I know Abraham did, too. I want to give credit to Abraham for stepping up to take this fight and put his undefeated record on the line.

“Fighting on HBO is a dream come true. It’s going to be a great night of boxing on Saturday. See you there.”

ABRAHAM “CHAMACO” LOPEZ, Undefeated Featherweight Contender:

“I’m here and I’m ready. I know Julian and I will give a great performance for the fans. It’s going to be a fantastic fight.”

“KING” GABRIEL ROSADO, Top Middleweight Contender:

“Thank you to my trainer Fernando Vargas. We had a good camp. I’m not taking my opponent lightly.”

ANTONIO “TONY” GUTIERREZ, Top Middleweight Contender:

“Fans – don’t miss this fight. It’s going to be great.”

CHRISTIAN “CHIMPA” GONZALEZ, Top Super Featherweight Prospect:

“Thank you to the media, Golden Boy Promotions, my manager and family. I’m excited and motivated for this fight. I’m ready. Get your tickets and I’ll wait for you guys on June 4.”

NICK ARCE, Top Super Featherweight Prospect:

“Thank you for making the time to be here today. I’d like to thank my team for always pushing me 100 percent and to Golden Boy for always putting me on great undercards. I feel strong and happy and ready to go for Saturday.”

JONATHAN “THUNDER” NAVARRO, Top Super Lightweight Prospect:

“Thank you for supporting this event and thanks to Golden Boy for the opportunity. I had a great training camp, and I’m ready to give the fans what they want and that is an action-packed fight.”

ROBERT GASPARRI, Chief Operating Officer at Golden Boy Promotions:

“Here we are at the StubHub Center, home of some of the most epic fights of this era, and on Saturday we will witness two Mexican warriors face-off in the ring as WBC Super Featherweight champion Francisco Vargas makes his first title defense against former three-time world champion Orlando Salido.

“We have also put together an action-packed undercard featuring many SoCal boxing fan favorites leading up to the main event. One thing is for certain, Saturday will be a real fiesta for all of our Mexican boxing fans.”

PETER NELSON, Executive Vice President of HBO Sports:

“We are privileged these fighters stepped up to face each other. StubHub is a great venue for us. It is our 14th time here for a fight. There is something about the energy in the arena here that makes the fighters step up. This fight is a tremendous event.

“Vargas is a former Olympian, world champion. He sowed us last November that he has great boxing skills and the ability to pull of a great upset. Salido – everyone knows he has been a warrior for a long time. When he was coming up as a young kid, by the time he was 17 he has a record of 18 pro fights. It’s never been a easy road for him but no one is counting him out.

“Lopez-Ramirez will also be a great fight along with other great fights on the undercard. If you can’t be there, watch it on HBO.”

ROBERT DIAZ, Head Matchmaker at Golden Boy Promotions:

“When you have two Mexican warriors in the right like we will on Saturday night, we are guaranteed fireworks. Saturday night will be special. When Vargas and Salido enter the ring, they will enter with pride for their country.”

ANDY FOSTER, Executive Officer of the California State Athletic Commission:

“I look forward to watching this event. California regulates more boxing than any other athletic commission in the country. When this came across my desk, I was excited to see that Golden Boy had made this fight.”

JOSE SULAIMAN, JR., Director of Operations for Los Angeles Office, World Boxing Council:

“Mexico is a producer of champions and this fight is an example of one where the fighters will give everything for the fans. Boxing needs these kinds of matches. This is the kind of fight the fans appreciate; two warriors in the ring.

“I wish the best to both fighters. May the best man win.”

BRENDAN HANNAN, Vice President, Marketing, Communications and Digital at LA Galaxy and StubHub Center:

“StubHub Center is the premier outdoor venue for boxing in the united states. We are excited to see these two fighters face off. We expect but the best.”

Tickets for Francisco Vargas vs. Orlando Salido priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges are available for purchase at AXS.com, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at StubHub Center Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

Francisco Vargas vs. Orlando Salido is a 12-round battle for the WBC Super Featherweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Zanfer Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD, Casa Mexico Tequila and HANDS OF STONE: The True Story of Roberto Duran, in theaters this August. The HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins live at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT. The RingTvLive.com live stream begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.zanfer.mx, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.stubhubcenter.com; follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @ZanferBox, @HBOBoxing, @StubHubCenter, @ElBandido130, @Siri_Salido, @El_Camaron23 and @TeamAbeLopez; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/zanferpromotions, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and www.facebook.com/StubHubCenter; and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing,@El_Camaron23, @TeamAbeLopez and @HBOBoxing. Follow the conversation using #VargasSalido.

CANCUN, Mexico / LAS VEGAS (June 2, 2016) — Famed promoter Pepe Gomez has partnered with Neon Star Media to bring its monthly “Cancun Boxing” series to CBS Sports Network.

The first event, “Knockout’s On Fire,” will take place this Saturday night (June 4) from Grand Oasis Cancun the Hotel Complex in Cancun, Mexico. Cancun`s ONLY Ultimate All-Inclusive Entertainment Resort will play host to all events in the series.

“Cancun Boxing” is presented by Pepe Gomez Boxing.

Broadcast times and details on CBS Sports Network to follow.

Hall-of-Famer announcers Jim “JR” Ross and Al Bernstein, respectively, will handle blow-by-blow and color commentary.

“Neon Star Media is excited to partner with Pepe Gomez whose wealth of knowledge and expertise will bring entertaining and quality match-ups to viewers on CBS Sports Network each month from the magnificent Grand Oasis Cancun,” said Mike Garrow, Chief Strategy Officer. “This series will be very synergistic to the current ‘Knockout Night at the D’ series held in Las Vegas. It will allow fans watching on CBS Sports Network to become more familiar with fighters competing on each series, month after month, thereby creating greater opportunities and exposure for these dedicated athletes of the sweet science.”

The first event will feature Mexico’s 3-time world super flyweight champion Cristian “El Diamante” Mijares (53-8-2, 26 KOs) who takes on his fellow countryman, undefeated Andres “Jaguarito” Gutierrez, in the 12-round main event for the vacant World Boxing Council (WBC) Silver Featherweight Championship.

WBC No. 8 rated Mijares (pictured to left), 34, is a former IBF, WBA Super and WBC super flyweight world champion. The future Hall of Fame candidate is 11-5 in world title fights with key victories over Chatchai Sasakul, Jorge Arce and Katsushige Kawashima (twice).

The 22-year-old Gutierrez (pictures to right), rated No. 6 by the WBC, turned pro at 15. The hot prospect has collected numerous title belts, including WBC Silver and Caribbean Boxing Federation super bantamweight, International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight, and WBC FECARBOX and World Boxing Association (WBA) Fedecentro featherweight.

An 8-round showdown between dangerous Mexican and Filipino rivals, Edgar “Power” Jimenez (21-11-2, 15 KOs) and Jovylito “J-Flash” Aligarbes (12-3, 6 KOs), has all the makings of a real firefight. The 23-year-old Jimenez is a former FECARBOX bantamweight and Mexican flyweight champion who, two fights ago, took a 10-round decision from 28-0 Ivan Morales. The highlight of Aligarbes’ pro career to date is stopping Angelito Merin in the second round of their WBC Youth World super flyweight title fight in 2013.

Former WBA female bantamweight champion Irma “Torbellino” Garcia (13-1-, 2 KOs) meets Miriam “La Patrona” Avila (5-6, 2 KOs) in a 10-round match. Garcia defeated Magali Rodriguez by 10-round majority decision to capture the WBA World bantamweight championship in 2013, but she never defended her title. She is the reigning WBC International bantamweight champion, rated No. 5 in the world by the WBC. Avila is a former Mexican featherweight champion.

In a battle of typically tough Mexican welterweights, Ivan “Zurdo” Alvarez (23-5, 16 KOs) meets former World Boxing Federation (WBF) champion Jose “Piston” Lopez (25-4-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-round bout that promises to be a knockdown, drag-out war. Alvarez, a southpaw, is riding a 10-fight win streak.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

CBS Sports Network is available across the country through local cable, video and telco providers and via satellite on DirecTV Channel 221 and Dish Network Channel 158. For more information, including a full programming schedule and how to get CBS Sports Network, go to www.cbssportsnetwork.com

INFORMATION

Twitter: @pepegomezcancun, @Neonstarmedia

Instagram: @pepegomez1

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/pepigomezquiqui, www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media-378687919005532/

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (June 2, 2016) – Keith Thurman, the reigning WBA Welterweight World Champion, is four weeks out from his June 25 title defense against Shawn Porter and has his 20-year career in boxing on his mind heading into the crucial showdown.

Thurman will be headlining on CBS live from Barclays Center in Brooklyn with televised coverage starting at 9 p.m. EST/6 p.m. PST. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting
www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. Group discounts are available by calling 844-BKLYN-GP.

“It’s been an amazing journey and no one predicted this better than my first coach Ben Getty,” said 27-year-old Thurman. “It puts me in a state of gratitude for Ben. He told everyone I’d be world champ, and here I am, defending my title against Shawn Porter. I am just starting to see what Ben Getty saw in me and the mark that I can make in boxing.”

Thurman isn’t the only one celebrating a boxing anniversary – his trainer of 13 years and Florida Hall of Fame elected boxing trainer Dan Birmingham, who trained former champion Winky Wright, has been in the sport for 50 years, and assistant trainer Chris Getty has grown up with Thurman in the sport through his father Ben Getty. The fight also is the first primetime fight on CBS in almost 40 years since the Muhammad Ali vs. Leon Spinks from Las Vegas.

Now, 20 years after Ben Getty introduced Thurman to boxing as part of an after school program, he is one of the strongest power punchers in the division, with an excellent knockout rate of 80%. His focus, however, is on making boxing history.

“My goal is to be known as the hardest hitting welterweight in the division,” said Thurman. “This camp, if anything, I feel more comfortable. I’m fully recovered, sparring, training. I’ve been throwing power punches for what seems like forever and it’s a little weird. I can’t help but think about how this is my 20th year in boxing and knowing the longevity I’ve had. It’s given me a new confidence. ”

For Birmingham, this training camp has been a re-commitment to the strategic and conditioning process the team has gone through for each fight for the past 13 years.

“Training is going real well,” said Birmingham. “We know Porter is a come-forward fighter – he is going to try to be on Keith’s chest. I want Keith to box, use his power, use his jab, and use his feints to work the body from the inside. All the things Keith knows how to do. Porter is not a real technical fighter so we’re working on using that to our advantage.”

Birmingham on sparring:
“We’ve been doing great sparring work – we have some tough, tough kids in camp. We’ve been boosting aerobic capacity, and those kids are keeping on Keith. He’s going to be in great shape for this fight. We’re excited for this fight. ”

What does Team “One Time” anticipate?
Birmingham: “We know that Porter is going to bring it so we’re working extra hard on aerobics and being fit for this fight. Keith’s doing a lot of running, cardio, endurance; we expect a tough fight and we’ll be prepared for this fight. We expect a victory”

What can fans expect on June 25?
Thurman: “Hopefully a knock out! I’m coming to bring it. Shawn is coming to bring it. It’ll be a great fight. We are two of the top welterweights in the division. Two of the youngest and strongest welterweights in the sport going toe-to- toe.”

What is your goal for this fight?
Thurman: “My goal is to be known as the hardest hitting welterweight in the division. My lifelong goal is to be the undisputed welterweight champion of the world – and I have a ways to go in unifying the titles. Once I move past Shawn I look forward to the challenge of making my dreams come true. I’m blessed to be where I am today.”

The Welterweight division is one of the hottest divisions in boxing, what do you think of a Super 6 tournament in the division?
Thurman: “I’m for it. In the 147-pound division it’s time to unify a title. Someone at 147 should have more than one belt and that’s my goal that before end of the year to have more than one belt.”

One of the sports more enigmatic athletes, Thurman is known for having a varied list of interests and hobbies setting him apart from other fighters, including playing the flute, piano and guitar, books (The Secret Life of Plants to Bhagavad Gita the Little Buddhist Handbook) and music (Ziggy Marley to Tupac). It is his uniqueness that helps him be an easy fan-favorite.

“Greatest advice I’ve been given is just to be Keith Thurman – just be me,” said Thurman. “I’m looking forward to stepping on this scale, not over talking and just going in and getting the knock out.”

Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. PBC is sponsored by Corona, La Cerveza Mas Fina.
For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports and www.premierboxingchampions.com, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @PremierBoxing @KeithFThurmanJr, @ShowtimeShawnP, @AbnerMares, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.facebook.com/BarclaysCenter.

Vasyl, do you feel any pressure going into this fight?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: I don’t have fresh pressures but of course I think about it. I wanted this fight and I am taking it very seriously. I want to do everything right from the beginning. I don’t want to put something like in a blueprint what happened with Salido.

Carl, do you want to explain the situation with his title?

CARL MORETTI: Vasyl is currently the WBO featherweight world champion and he will enter the ring as the champion and if he is victorious in challenging Rocky Martinez, who is the WBO 130 pound world champion, Vasyl and his team will have ten days to decide which belt and which weight class they will continue to campaign in, 126 or 130, and they just have to let the WBO know. If he loses or if it is a draw he wills till retain the 126-pound title.

EGIS KLIMAS: We have been told by the WBO when we signed the contract, and also been told by Bob Arum that we will have more than 10 days to decide. We know that everyone is in a hurry and we will try to do our best to let them know what will happen.

Have you had trouble making 126 and do you think the move up will benefit you?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: I didn’t have any problems making 126 pounds but of course it wasn’t easy but never was it a critical condition to make my weight. As far as moving to 130 pounds, 130 is a more natural weight for me. Another reason why is I was very hard to get any other champions in the division to fight me. Moving to 130 pounds may give me more opportunity to fight the best fighters in the division and most likely the champions in the division. That was a big part of my decision to move to 130 pounds.

Salido came in weighing about 147 for your fight with him. How much do you think that contributed to the loss?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: You are asking if I felt a difference in the weight? When he came in the ring and took his t-shirt off it looked like a different person in front of me than the person I saw at the weigh-in. There was a completely different person in front of me. Did I feel his weight in the ring? Yes, I did feel his weight when I was fighting him but I cannot blame it on the weight or anything. I was prepared for him to come heavier in the ring. But I still had to fight – I had to do what I had to do.

Has it been difficult to step in right away against the best professionals?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: The biggest concern coming from amateur to professional was to adapt to that dirty style of boxing. It’s not that there are not dirty fighters in the amateurs, it is that in the amateurs the referee will put a stop to it right away. In the Salido fight, for me, the toughest part was adapting to dirty boxing.

Would Vasyl want a rematch with Salido somewhere down the line?

EGIS KLIMAS: Yes, we are talking about that right now. Vasyl will be ringside for Salido’s fight on Saturday night. Salido said at his press conference that if he is the victor in the right he will fly to New York to see Vasyl’s fight. There is talk among our team and there is talk with the promotional company and yes, we believe it could happen. Vasyl will be cheering for Salido on Saturday night because he wishes he will win that fight. And we think, and the promoter thinks, it will be a very good fight for audience and the fans.

What do you think about professionals fighting in the Olympics and especially on this short notice…

VASYL LOMACHENKO: If you are talking about this Olympics, 2016, I don’t think it would be a wise idea for any professional who just heard the news and would run to the Olympic games right now. I think there needs to be more time to prepare for it. The idea of having professional boxers in the Olympics – I am all for it, I like the idea. If you take any other sport – basketball, tennis – any other sport – they support professional athletes and they participate in the Olympic games and it makes it that much stronger. I think in the 2020 Olympics there will be a lot more fighters because they will have a lot of time to prepare. BUT, I do not think the big stars in boxing, like Pacquiao and Mayweather, will take the risks in the Olympic games. When they go to the games, there is a chance the amateur can win and they won’t want to take the risk.

How would you have felt if you were preparing for the games and all the sudden the professionals would come in?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: I wouldn’t be surprised and I wouldn’t be scared and would just be glad because all of my boxing career I was always saying that if you want to be the best you have to fight the best. If someone told me that in the 2012 Olympics there would be professional fighters fighting I would be very happy – it would be a big challenge for me. But you can’t forget, just because you are a professional fighter doesn’t mean you can beat the amateurs. It’s a different fight. We have three rounds and then you have to fight every day five or six times. It is completely different preparation, but that doesn’t mean good professionals cannot beat good amateurs. Don’t forget the most important thing – you have to weigh-in every day before the bouts. You can’t do what Salido did. You can’t weigh-in at 126 then come out at 147 – it’s not going to happen. Maybe for one bout, but then next day you have to step in and get from 147 to 126? It is a completely different game and this is probably the main thing — when you have to be in your weight class six days in a row.

If you were in the position where Salido’s opponent tested positive for PED, would you let the fight go on?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: I can’t really answer that question – whether I would be fighting or not if my opponent came up dirty on a test for steroids. Would I be fighting if my opponent tested positive? I can’t answer that now because it is a serious decision to make — I would talk to my team and I would talk to everybody. That decision is not easy to make so I can’t answer that question right now, right away. Some of the fighters are using their own substances. If he tested positive on any PEDs then that means he is not an honorable athlete. As far as who is going to win I will be cheering for Salido because I want to fight Salido one more time so I hope he wins the fight.

Did you ever think about going to 135 to become a champion in three weight divisions before your 10th professional fight?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: To answer your first question, I never thought about that fighting as a 135-pounder. That is actually a very good idea, thank you for the tip and I will think about that after June 11.

What do you think about Martinez?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: I think Martinez is a very strong and experienced fighter and I think when he comes in the ring on June 11, he will know exactly what he needs to do to win the fight and my position will be to destroy his plan.

Is there any fight at 126 that would make you go back down after this fight?

EGIS KLIMAS: Number 1 contender. Number 1 contender – Oscar Valdez. Actually I am kidding. I haven’t had the chance to talk to Bob Arum since I have heard in the news that he may have plans with Al Haymon, and if that door opens there are a lot of fighters — Leo Santa Cruz, Gary Russell — but are they willing to step in the ring with Vasyl? Vasyl is willing to step in the ring with any champion but are they willing? We may stay at 130, but I cannot predict that. We are going to see how he feels and what he wants to do. Plus I am not going to be the one stepping in the ring.

Do you have any thoughts going to New York on Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend to fight a Puerto Rican?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: I am going to spoil the Puerto Rican fans weekend. They will feel very let down.

Is Vasyl leaning one way or the other, division-wise, following this fight?

EGIS KLIMAS: Everything depends on how the fight will go on June 11. Right now we are not even talking about it. All of the decisions will be made right after the June 11 bout. He could still make 126 — it is not easy — but he will make it for the big fight and he has no doubts about it.

Nichols Walters’ name has been mentioned as an opponent again…

EGIS KLIMAS: Well, I don’t know who is going to pay him the money. Last time they offered $300,000 and he declined. I don’t know what kind of money he wants — $1M or $2M or whatever — I don’t know where Bob Arum is going to get that kind of money. That is a question for Bob Arum. Vasyl stated “I will fight anyone that Top Rank will put in front of me.” He did not only mean it for that fighter but whoever is the No. 1 contender or a world champion in the division that he is fighting in. If Walters thinks he is in that category of being a No. 1 or if he can fight anyone in the division and become a champion and then fight Vasyl — champion versus champion — that would be a very interesting bout.

VASYL LOMACHENKO: After June 11, I am going to be the one thinking and making the decisions whether to fight Walters or not. He will need to come up with more money for me to fight him.

Do you consider Rocky Martinez to be a dirty fighter?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: According to what I saw in his bouts, I can’t consider him as a dirty fighter. What I did see was sometimes he comes in with his head but accidentally without thinking about that. I would not call him a dirty fighter.

In the future, how high of a weight class can you go?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: I can’t answer that question right now. If I did answer that right now it would only be words and mean nothing. If I stay at 126 I will do that to get all of the belts and become undisputed champion. I have said that many times — if I stay here I will collect all of the belts. Now, things happen like this, now I am fighting at 130. Who knows? It is a tough question to answer.

Martinez has had trouble making weight in the past. Are you worried and would you fight if he comes in heavy?

VASYL LOMACHENKO: Yes, I have thought about that — That he would do what Salido did – not try to make the weight and come in heavy and make the title vacant. And I will still fight him.

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

Three-time world champion ROMAN “Rocky” MARTINEZ (29-2-3, 17 KOs), from Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, and World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight world champion VASYL LOMACHENKO (5-1, 3 KOs), of Odessa, Ukraine, will go mano a mano for Martinez’s WBO junior lightweight world title and the boxing gem of Puerto Rico, FELIX “El Diamante” VERDEJO (21-0, 14 KOs), of San Juan, Puerto Rico, will risk his WBO Latino lightweight crown, undefeated record and No. 2 world rating against JUAN JOSE MARTINEZ (25-2, 17 KOs), of Mexico City, Mexico, in the co-main event of a championship doubleheader Next Saturday! June 11 — one day before the famed Puerto Rican Day Parade — at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. The two bouts, scheduled for 12 and 10 rounds, respectively, will be televised live on HBO beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The non-televised undercard will feature the U.S. debut of two-time Olympic gold medalist and three-time World Amateur Champion ZOU SHIMING (7-1, 2 KOs), from The Peoples Republic of China. Zou will be defending his WBO International flyweight title and No. 2 world rating in a 10-round bout against JOZSEF AJTAI (15-2, 10 KOs), of Hungary.

The six gladiators boast a combined record of 102-8-3 (63 KOs) — a winning percentage of 90% with over 60% of their victories coming by way of knockout.

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with Puerto Rican Best Boxing, Diamante Promotions, SECA and Madison Square Garden, remaining tickets to the Martinez vs. Lomachenko / Verdejo vs. Martinez championship doubleheader are priced at $300, $200, $100, $50 and $35. Tickets can be purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008), and online at www.ticketmaster.com and www.thegarden.com.

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com, or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo, or twitter.com/hboboxing.

Liverpool’s WBO Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith came face-to-face with Montenegro’s Predrag Radosevic at today’s press conference at the Hilton Hotel in Liverpool. Undefeated Smith, 22-0-1 12 KO’s, makes the second defence of his world title against WBO European Champion Radosevic this Saturday at Liverpool’s Echo Arena, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

Scouse hero Smith knows he will have to be at his very best if he is to avoid any slip-ups against a rough and ready Radosevic. Smith’s promoter Frank Warren has hinted at a potentially huge fight for Smith in September should he overcome Radosevic. However, the Merseyside maverick says there’s no danger of him overlooking his latest challenger.

“I’m buzzing to get back in the ring on Saturday. I’ve been out of the ring since December and I’ve had a good rest. I’ve been linked with some big names but none of those fights can happen if I don’t win this weekend. I’m fully focused on Predrag Radosevic; he’s a dangerous opponent and has my full attention. I’m from too good a family and too good a gym to overlook anyone,” said Smith.

He added: “I want to put on a good performance back in my home city. I won the title in Manchester and defended it in Manchester but there’s no place like home. I’m going to put on a show for everyone at the Echo Arena and watching at home on BoxNation”.

Radosevic, who is ranked number 11 with the World Boxing Organisation, is on a red-hot three-fight winning streak since losing his unbeaten record at the hands of controversial WBA Super-Middleweight Champion Felix Sturm in July 2013 and insists he isn’t in Liverpool to make up the numbers.

He said: “It’s a great honour to be here and fighting on a Frank Warren promotion. On Saturday night I’ll be taking that belt home with me; I’m not here as a tourist. I believe I have what it takes to beat Liam and become the new world champion.”

Ellesmere Port star Paul Butler finds himself within striking distance of another shot at becoming a two-weight world champion. Standing in his way of making history is Thai terror Petchbarngborn Kokietgym who boxes out of Bangkok. Former IBF Bantamweight World Champion Butler is excited to show off his new skills against Kokietgym.

“I’m looking forward to Saturday night. Obviously I’ve got a new trainer and I’m buzzing to show everyone what I’ve been up to in the gym. I’ve got a good opponent but we’ve been putting the hours in in the gym and you’ll see a new Paul Butler this weekend,” said Butler.

EBU European Bantamweight Champion Ryan Farrag makes the first defence of his belt against Karim Guerfi. The Everton Red Triangle man is confident of getting a knockout win over the tricky man from Manosque in France.

He said: “Karim is a good opponent. He’s the type of opponent I want to be in there fighting but I believe I’ve got the beating of him. He’s going to be in for a rough night; I’m looking forward to punching him in the face and keeping hold of my belt!”

Lastly, Tom Stalker looks to make it third time lucky when he challenges Portugal’s Antonio Joao Bento for the Vacant European Lightweight Championship. ‘The Captain’ is confident there are big fights ahead of him should he claim the European crown on Saturday.

Stalker said: “In the past year I’ve had three draws a win and a loss. Frank Warren has stood by me and got me another great opportunity. It’s about time I repaid their faith in me. I’m going to put in a great performance on Saturday and finally get my hands on that belt.”

The Channel of Champions, BoxNation, will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546, Freeview 255 and Talk Talk 415. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com or watch online at livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

Toms River, NJ (June 2, 2016) – This Saturday’s boxing card promoted by HITM Promotions at Toms River East High School is postponed until later in the Summer.

All fans who bough tickets can get a refund at their point of purchase.

A new date will be announced shortly.

LONDON (2 JUNE) Bexleyheath featherweight star Yusuf ‘Yut’ Safa is raring to go ahead of pro bout number seven but admits that being part of the blockbuster Fury vs. Klitschko II event on July 9 comes with its own pressures.

The gifted 22-year-old, originally from Afghanistan, will appear at the Manchester Arena shortly before Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko rematch for the heavyweight championship of the world and knows the eyes of the world will be on him.

“This one tops everything,” says Safa. “It’s on another level. It’s one of the biggest shows in boxing history; a rematch between the two best heavyweights in the world for the heavyweight championship of the world. You can’t get much bigger than this. It’s not even a fight, it’s an event.

“This will be a different experience for me. I know it will be a bit nerve-wracking but every fight is nerve-wracking. This one will just produce a few more nerves because of the size of it. It’s only natural. I have to make sure I’m focused and stick to the job.”

Last time out, in March, Safa demolished Slaveya Stefanov in three rounds and again showed why his promoter, Mick Hennessy, has labelled him a “special talent”. The result marked the fourth stoppage win of Safa’s two-year pro career.

“I felt good,” says Yusuf. “The kid was a bit wild in the first couple of rounds and the action was a bit messy and all over the place. Once I settled down, though, and stayed calm and relaxed, I got it done.”

Now 6-0 (4 KOs), Safa looks to make bigger strides in 2016, starting with an appearance on July 9 in front of 20,000 fans at Manchester Arena. From there he has only titles in mind.

“I could have done a bit more in the two years I’ve been a pro but have been held back a bit by some of the injuries I’ve had,” says the 22-year-old. “They have kept me out of the ring and inactive longer than I would have liked.

“I believe things happen for a reason, though, and you just have to deal with it. I’m still in a good place, I’m still young and I’m just as ambitious as I was when I turned pro.

“Within the next twelve months I want to be in the mix for titles – Southern Area, Commonwealth, Youth. I’ll fight for any of them. I know I’m good enough to be winning those kind of belts now.”

*** For tickets to REPEAT OR REVENGE: Fury vs. Klitschko 2, please visit eventim.co.uk or call 0844 847 8000 ***

FOLLOW US ON ON TWITTER @HENNESSYSPORTS
For more information on Hennessy Sports:

www.hennessysports.com

FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS VISIT WWW.HENNESSYSPORTS.COM

LOS ANGELES (June 1, 2016) -WBC Super Featherweight World Champion Francisco “El Bandido” Vargas (23-0-1, 17 KOs) and former three-time world champion Orlando “Siri” Salido (43-13-3, 30 KOs, 1 NC) hosted today, a Los Angeles media workout ahead of their upcoming in a 12-round battle that will take place June 4 at the StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. and televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark. They were joined by undefeated Julian “El Camaron” Ramirez (16-0, 8 KOs) and Abraham “Chamaco” Lopez (20-0-1, 15 KOs), who will meet in the ring for the first time to battle for the vacant NABA Featherweight Title in the co-main event on June 4 along with undercard fighters “King” Gabriel Rosado (22-9, 13 KOs) of Philadelphia; Tijuana’s Antonio “Tony” Gutierrez (20-1-1, 9 KOs); Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (13-0, 12 KOs) of Buena Park, Calif.; Nick Arce (7-0, 6 KOs); and Santa Ana, Calif.’s Alexis Rocha (2-0, 2 KOs).

Also at today’s workout were fighters featured on the June 3 LA FIGHT CLUB card including Ronny Rios (25-1, 10 KOs) who headlines the Belasco Theater on Friday for a 10-round featherweight battle; local favorite Rafael “El Alikin” Gramajo (7-1-1, 2 KOs) who will return to the ring in a six-round bantamweight bout; Tenochtitlan “T-Dog” Nava (1-0) will fight in a four-round super featherweight brawl; Pablo “The Shark” Rubio Jr. (5-0, 3 KOs) who will fight in a four-round super bantamweight fight; and Seniesa Estrada (6-0, 1 KO) who will fight in LA FIGHT CLUB’s first female bout opening up the televised broadcast.

Below is what the fighters on the Francisco Vargas vs. Orlando Salido card had to say at today’s workout:

FRANCISCO “EL BANDIDO” VARGAS, WBC Super Featherweight World Champion:

“I’m ready to give another incredible fight to the fans. I have always said I want to fight the best, and Salido is one of the best.

“The only thing on my mind is to win this fight on Saturday. It’s up to the fans to decide if I’m number one. I’m a technical fighter but it will come down to my intelligence. This will be a very difficult fight on Saturday.”

ORLANDO “SIRI” SALIDO, Former Three-Time World Champion:

“I’m a warrior and Vargas is a warrior. The ones who will win will be the fans.

“When you get in to boxing, you are mentally prepared to get knocked down. Every time I’ve been knocked down, I just get back up again and fight. I like to prove everyone wrong and that’s what I plan to do when I go in and fight this young undefeated fighter.”

(L-R: Gabriel Rosado, Julian Ramirez, Abraham Lopez, Antonio Gutierrez)

JULIAN “EL CAMARRON” RAMIREZ, Undefeated Featherweight Contender:

“I’m at 125 lbs. right now, and I feel great. My mindset going into this is confidence. I’ve trained for three months with four sparring partners.

“I look at every opponent the same. I just want to win. Lopez is just another guy I’m fighting. It’s nothing personal, just another fight. Now that I’m with a new trainer, there’s no games-just training hard.”

ABRAHAM LOPEZ, Undefeated Featherweight Contender:

“Every fight is just another day for me, like another day in the office. I’ve known Julian since his amateur days, and we have sparred together. There’s no heat between us. We just need to handle business in the ring. I’ll do whatever it takes to prepare for this fight.”

“KING” GABRIEL ROSADO, Top Middleweight Contender:

“Training camp has been going great. I’ve been staying ready since the fight with Joshua Clottey. I’m assuming he is coming into this fight with his A game.

“This training camp we are a lot more familiar now (with new trainer Fernando Vargas). The thing about Fernando is he is a former world champion so I believe him; whatever he tells me, I believe him.

“This fight sets us up for a better opportunity and a bigger name in the future.

“Fernando is a savage like me; we have a lot in common. Fernando doesn’t have to show me how to fight; he is just sharpening me. He is building my confidence. He expects the best out of me.”

ANTONIO “TONY” GUTIERREZ, Top Middleweight Contender:

“This has been the toughest training camp of my career. I have trained mentally and physically for this. My opponent Rosado is a very tough fighter, and we have to be very intelligent to win. Fighting Rosado is very big for my career and defeating him would put me at a whole new level. This is going to be a great fight. Another Classic Puerto Rico vs. Mexico fight, and we’re going to go all out in the ring.”

(L-R: Nick Arce, Christian Gonzalez, Alexis Rocha)

CHRISTIAN “CHIMPA” GONZALEZ, Top Super Featherweight Prospect:

“Little by little, it’s become reality that my career has been growing. I’ve been training very hard and am counting down the days until my fight on Saturday. I know the fans like to see action and my fighting style delivers that. My goal is to fight two or three more times this year. This Saturday, everyone can expect me to put on a show in the ring.”

NICK ARCE, Top Super Featherweight Prospect:

“I can’t wait to fight at The StubHub Center this Saturday. This has been a great training camp with my stable mates. They [Nava and Rafael] have fights on Friday and we have been preparing together every step of the way. My camp and I do a lot for our community and that’s why I think the fans will come out on Saturday.”

ALEXIS ROCHA, Top Welterweight Prospect:

“I’m not looking for it, but if the knockout comes, I’ll be ready take it this Saturday. My brother [Golden Boy fighter Ronny Rios] and I are used to training and fighting together. It was very exciting to fight the day before the Canelo vs. Khan fight at the Toshiba Plaza, and if the matchmakers allow it, I hope to move on up to the biggest fights I can.”

Below is what the fighters on the June 3 LA FIGHT CLUB card had to say at today’s workout:

(L-R: Tenochtitlan Nava, Seniesa Estrada, Ronny Rios, Rafael Gramajo, Pablo Rubio Jr.)

RONNY RIOS, Top Featherweight Contender:

“I’m very comfortable at my weight of 126 going in to this fight. I’ve been training hard and staying healthy. For me, it’s not about being undefeated it’s about fighting the best and being the best. This is the first fight week my brother (Golden Boy fighter Alexis Rocha) and I both have fights. I’m glad I fight first because I get more nervous when he fights than when I do.”

RAFAEL “EL ALIKIN” GRAMAJO, Bantamweight Prospect:

“I’m not too focused on my opponent. I go in to every fight focusing on training and improving my style. Every fight is a progression. My dream is to hopefully sign with Golden Boy Promotions and I hope this fight brings me closer to that. I always say, ‘one fight at a time.'”

SENIESA ESTRADA, Flyweight Prospect:

“I feel very comfortable going into this fight knowing I just fought six weeks ago. I know my opponent has fought many former world champions and has the experience to fight very hard. I expect her to be a very tough opponent.

“Personally, I feel very blessed and grateful to be the first woman ever opening the televised fight this LA FIGHT CLUB. This is the start of something that hasn’t been done before, and it feels really amazing. I hope to pave the way for other female boxers in the sport and to move on up to the biggest fights.”

PABLO “THE SHARK” RUBIO, JR., Super Bantamweight Prospect:

“I know that my opponent will probably put pressure on me, but I also know he was stopped at the last fight club and I have been training really hard to defeat him. My goal is to fight three more times this years and I will keep going back to the gym and training hard to accomplish that.”

Tenochtitlan “T-Dog” Nava, Super Featherweight Prospect:

“This is my second fight at LA FIGHT CLUB, and I’ve trained hard with my stablemates. We have been pushing each other very hard to prepare for our fights and I feel very good about Friday.”

Tickets for Francisco Vargas vs. Orlando Salido priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges are available for purchase at AXS.com, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at StubHub Center Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

Francisco Vargas vs. Orlando Salido is a 12-round battle for the WBC Super Featherweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Zanfer Promotions and sponsored by Cerveza Tecate, BORN BOLD, Casa Mexico Tequila and HANDS OF STONE: The True Story of Roberto Duran, in theaters this August. The HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins live at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT. The RingTvLive.com live stream begins at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.zanfer.mx, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.stubhubcenter.com; follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @ZanferBox, @HBOBoxing, @StubHubCenter, @ElBandido130, @Siri_Salido, @El_Camaron23 and @TeamAbeLopez; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/zanferpromotions, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and www.facebook.com/StubHubCenter; and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing,@El_Camaron23, @TeamAbeLopez and @HBOBoxing. Follow the conversation using #VargasSalido.

HOLLYWOOD, FL. (June 1, 2016) – Lightweight world champion Rances “Kid Blast” Barthelemy and former world champion Mickey “The Spirit” Bey went face to face for the first time Wednesday as they participated in the final press conference and media workouts for Premier Boxing Champions on Spike this Friday, June 3 from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Hollywood, Florida.

Action begins on Spike at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT and features exciting bantamweight prospect Emmanuel Rodriguez taking on former title challenger Alberto Guevara in a 10-round bout. Also in attendance Wednesday and competing on the undercard is undefeated Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant, who battles Carlos Galvan on Friday night.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Kings Promotions, Mayweather Promotions, and Panther Promotions, are priced at $130, $80, $60, and $35 (additional fees may apply) and are on sale now. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com,www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the first fight set to begin at 6:30 p.m.

Fighters spoke to media and posed for cameras at the Paradise Live Theater before moving into the Hard Rock Live Arena for media workouts.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday:

RANCES BARTHELEMY

“I’m very excited to be fighting here close to Miami. This is a second home for Cubans and I’m really motivated to put on a great performance for the fans.

“Ismael Salas is one of the top trainers in the world and our whole team has been fantastic. We’re ready to get in the ring and fight.

I come prepared with a few strategies. I never stick to one game plan because us Cubans were taught to have a few up your sleeve so that you can adjust according to whatever presents itself to you in the ring.

“If we don’t get the knockout, then we are ready to go the distance. My team is prepared to go the distance if we have to, but also to give an entertaining fight.

“You’re going to see a new Rances Barthelemy in 2016.

“Don’t miss this fight. Get there early, because it might not go five. Get ready for a great night of boxing.”

MICKEY BEY

“I want to give Rances props for stepping up and taking the fight. This is the beautiful thing about boxing, the best fighting the best.

“You have a two-time champion fighting a world champion that never lost his belt in the ring. That says it all right there. We’re two elite fighters. We’re both going for glory.

“No matter what anybody says today, it comes down to the action on Friday.

“I’m in there with the same mindset no matter who I’m fighting. I’m coming in there to do what I do no matter what. It’s just another day for me.

“You’ll see a throwback fighter in there. I’m like the fighters from back in the day. I’m here looking for the victory. I don’t care how I get it and I can’t predict. But we want to have our hand raised.

“I’m coming to get what is rightfully mine. Don’t miss it.”

EMMANUEL RODRIGUEZ

“I feel great and ready for Friday. I’m not worried about tomorrow at all, we’re right on weight, so we’re just looking forward to stepping into the ring at this point.

“We’ve been in training camp for six months as we had a tentative fight date scheduled prior to this so I was already in the gym getting ready. We’re in the best shape.

“We have seen footage of him and saw he makes a lot of mistakes. We analyzed those defaults and are using them as a strategy against him. We’ve put those into practice and think we will be able to execute them to come out victorious at the end of the night.

“He’s not your typical Mexican warrior fighter, he’s the total opposite actually so we’re not worried about what he does.”

ALBERTO GUEVARA

“I’m ready for this big opportunity and I’m ready to fight. This is a big card and it’s very exciting.

“I know what I have in front of me. Emmanuel Rodriguez is a good fighter, but he’s just another opponent to me.

“I’m well prepared and I believe I’m going to win this fight.”

CALEB PLANT

“I’m thankful to have this stage to perform on. I’m glad the media could come out and get a sneak peek of what I’m going to bring Friday night.

“The game plan is to go in there and look sharp, be slick, make adjustments and dictate the pace. He’s going to be uncomfortable because we’re going to dictate the pace. We’ll see if he can keep up.

“I’ve seen enough tape on, which wasn’t very much. I let my coaches breakdown the film and let me know what I need to do.

“This is my only job and I do it well. I’m not into getting ready, I stay ready. We’re here to show out.

“I’ve had a great training camp. I worked hard and I’m ready to put on a show this Friday night. I’m going to do what I always do in there.”

All Fight Week events will be held at:
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314
Parking: Lucky Street Garage on 441 (SR7) between Griffin and Stirling
Phone: 954-327-7625
Website: www.SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 2

Weigh-In – Open to the Public

Location:Paradise Live Theater

2:00 p.m. Media Arrival
3:00 p.m. Fighters On Scales

FRIDAY, JUNE 3

Fight Night – Premier Boxing Champions

Location:Hard Rock Live

4:30 p.m.Credential Pick-Up Opens*
5:30 p.m.Doors Open at Hard Rock Live
6:30 p.m.First fight begins
9:00 p.m.SPIKE telecast begins

*Credential Pick Up will take place from 4:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. the credentials table will be set up in the Hard Rock Box Office. It is located in the outdoor section near the VIP entrance to the arena.

Proper personal photo identification (driver’s license or passport) is required for credential pick-up.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Kings Promotions, Mayweather Promotions and Panther Promotions, are priced at $130, $80, $60 and $35 and are on sale now. All seats are reserved and available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.myhrl.com,www.ticketmaster.com or charge by phone: 1-800-745-3000. Doors open at 5:30 pm, with the first fight set to begin at 6:30 p.m. *Additional fees may apply

Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @RealKidBlast, @MickeyBeyTMT, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports, @KingsBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @PantherPromo and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and
www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions. Highlights available to embed at www.youtube.com/premierboxingchampions.

NEW YORK (June 1, 2016) – Former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson will be honored during the month of June as SHOWTIME Sports airs 10 of “Iron Mike’s” most memorable fights in continuation of its year-long celebration of 30 years of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING®.

The sixth round of a 12-month tribute to SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® will be highlighted by 10 of Tyson’s most memorable victories – over Donovan “Razor” Ruddock (twice), Peter McNeeley, Frank Bruno II, Bruce Seldon, Frans Botha, Julius Francis, Lou Savarese, Brian Nielsen and Clifford Etienne.

The fights will air on “Throwback Thursday” during the month of June at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME® and are available on SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and via the network’s online streaming service.

In celebration of Iron Mike’s 50th birthday on Thursday, June 30, all 10 of the bouts will air during a “Throwback Thursday” marathon beginning at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

Below is the schedule of SHOWTIME EXTREME premieres for the month of June:

· Thursday, June 2: Tyson vs. Donovan “Razor” Ruddock I and II

· Thursday, June 9: Tyson vs. Peter McNeeley, Tyson vs. Frank Bruno II, Tyson vs. Bruce Seldon

· Thursday, June 16: Tyson vs. Frans Botha, Tyson vs. Julius Francis, Tyson vs. Lou Savarese

· Thursday, June 23: Tyson vs. Brian Nielsen, Tyson vs. Clifford Etienne

· Thursday, June 30 (Tyson’s 50th Birthday): All 10 fights will be showcased.

The hard-hitting Tyson in his prime was one fighter that boxing fans didn’t dare miss. Even while he racked up all those devastating knockouts, fans seldom complained about a brief fight.

Tyson holds the record as the youngest boxer to win the WBC, WBA and IBF heavyweight titles at 20 years, 4 months, and 22 days old. By winning three world heavyweight championships in four fights, Tyson became the first prizefighter to simultaneously hold the WBA, WBC and IBF titles, and the only heavyweight to successively unify them.

On June 12, 2011, Tyson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

# # #

About Showtime Networks:

Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Apple®, Roku®, Amazon and Google. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Hulu, Sony PlayStation® Vue and Amazon Prime Video. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™, and offers Smithsonian Earth™ through SN Digital LLC. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.