GH3 Promotions Keenan Smith and Andrew Hernandez in action tonight

Nutley, NJ (August 15, 2015) – Two fighters in the GH3 Promotions stable will be in action tonight as undefeated Welterweight Keenan Smith and Middleweight Andrew Hernandez will be in action on opposite sides of the country.

Smith of Philadelphia will risk his perfect record of 7-0 with 2 KO’s when he takes on fellow undefeated Lavelle Hadley (2-0, 2 KO’s) in a six-round bout at the Plyground in Atlantic City.

With a victory, Smith will be lined up for two national television appearances. First on September 18 on CBS Sports Network and then on November 6 on Showtime’s ShoBox series. Both fights will take place at The D Hotel in Las Vegas.

Hernandez (9-1-1, 1 KO) of Tucson, Arizona will take on Louis Rose (12-2-1, 4 KO’s) for the NABF Middleweight title at We Ko Pa Casino in Fort McDowell, Arizona in a fight co-promoted by Roy Jones Jr.

GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight Jerrell Harris,undefeated Super Bantamweight Qa’id Muhammad, lightweight Oscar Bonilla, Heavyweight Natu Visinia, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandezto the GH3 Promotions stable.




Weights from Jersey City, NJ

Ortiz_Luckey
Jersey City, NJ (August 15 2015)-Weights for tonight;s boxing card that will take place at the Pershing Field Ice Rink.

Jose Ortiz 130 – Tyrone Luckey 130
Eddie Edmond 158 – Edson Soto 160
Tyquan Boyd 132 – Wilfredo Ceballos 134
Brayon Rendon 140 – Abel Vera 141
Hakim Bryant 156 – Jimmy Ellis 156
Willie Harvey 250 – Quian Davis 235
Tyrell Wright 215 – Jacob Chavez 220
Caleb Hernandez 147 – Jordan Rosario 147

Promoter: LGM Promotions
Venue: Pershing Field Ice Rink
1st Bell: 7 PM

Tickets are priced at $125 per person at a ringside table; $65 for Ringside; $55
for General Ringside; $35 for General Admission.

Tickets can be purchased by clicking: www.lgmpromo.eventbrite.com or by calling 201-314-8251

Doors open at 6 PM ; 1st Bell at 7 PM

The Pershing Field Ice Rink is located at 807 Summit Ave. Jersey City, NJ




Masternak faces Nascimento for WBA Intercontinental title on September 5*

Mateusz Masternak (35-3, 25 KOs) faces Carlos Nascimento (29-4, 23 KOs) for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight title on September 5 at the EnergieVerbund Arena in Dresden, Germany.

The former European Champion returns following a contentious loss to Johnny Muller in South Africa, where despite dominating the fight and twice dropping the hometown fighter, Masternak found himself behind on the local judges’ scorecards.

With this injustice fresh in his mind, the Polish puncher is ready to get his world title ambitions back on track with a win over the experienced Brazilian contender Nascimento.

‘’I’m still very angry and upset about what happened in South Africa,’’ said Masternak. ‘’I truly believe that one day those who have cheated me will experience it themselves. They may have stolen my victory, but they cannot steal my experience or previous achievements. I will keep moving forward!

‘’Now my focus is on Nascimento. This is massive fight for me. The WBA Intercontinental title will lift me up the rankings and bring me closer to a world title shot, which is my main goal. I’m confident I will win. I don’t expect anything special from Nascimento. I plan to overwhelm him with my speed and aggression.’’

Said promoter Nisse Sauerland: ‘’Mateusz is one of the top cruiserweights in the world. He has consistently performed at the highest level and there is no question that the he has the ability to compete with the very best in the division. He faces a tough test against Nascimento but we expect ‘Master’ to rule the ring and bring himself back into world title contention!’’

The WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight contest comes as part of a huge night of boxing in Dresden, which sees WBA World Light Heavyweight Champion Juergen Braehmer defend his title against Konni Konrad. Tickets are available via tickethall.de.




Weights from Atlantic City

Atlantic City, NJ (August 15, 2015)–Weights for Tonight’s card at the Playground in Atlantic City

Chazz Witherspoon 233 1/2 – Nicholas Guivas 225
Keenan Smith 146 1/2 – Lavelle Hadley 147
Anthony Young 149 – Jonathan Garcia 151 3/4
Parris Chisholm 157 – David Ratliff 163 1/2
Scott Kellerher 139 – Xzavier Ford 134
Sam Ellsworth 153 1/2 – Kasif Mohamed 149
Eric Kitt 154 – Gilbert Alex Sanchez 154 1/4
John Lennox 220 – Dan Pasciolla 232 1/2
Jerome Conquest 137 – David Perez 139
Wang Zhiman 139 – Carlos Nieves 146
Zhang Zhilei 261 1/2 – Dennis Benson 234 1/2

Promoter: Silver Spoon Promotions
Venue: The Playground in Atlantic City
1st Bell: 8:00 PM ET

The Playground is a brand-new, state of the art entertainment complex where the shops at the Pier used to be. The facility is 500,000 square feet.The Playground is located at One Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Tickets for this great night of boxing will range from $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com

Doors open at 6:30 PM with 1st bell at 8 PM




PBC on NBCSN in Montreal Official Weights

MONTRÉAL (August 14, 2015) – The official weigh in was held today for tomorrow night’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBCSN card at Bell Centre in Montreal.

Televised coverage is headlined by a 10-round showdown between Lucian “Le Tombeur” Bute (31-2, 24 KOs) and Andrea Di Luisa (17-2). Also featured on NBCSN is light heavyweight contender Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (17-0) versus Isidro Ranoni “El Guerrero” Prieto (24-0-3) in a 12-round bout.

Main Event – Light Heavyweight Bout – 10 Rounds
LUCIAN BUTE (31-2, 24 KOs), Laval, Quebec, Canada 170 lbs.
ANDREA DI LUISA (17-2, 13 KOs), Viterbo, Lazio, Italy 169.6 lbs.

Co-Feature – Light Heavyweight Championship Bout – 12 Rounds
ELEIDER ALVAREZ (17-0, 10 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada 174.2 lbs.
ISIDRO RANONI PRIETO (24-0-3, 20 KOs), Buenos Aires, Argentina 174.4 lbs.

Light Heavyweight Bout – 6 Rounds
ERIK BAZINYAN (8-0, 5 KOs), Montreal, Canada 169.2 lbs.
LEEANTHONY SPITZKA (6-1, 6 KOs), Nuremburg, Germany 174.4 lbs.

Welterweight Bout – 8 Rounds
JUNIOR ULYSSE (8-0, 5 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada 143.6 lbs.
RYAN WAGNER (5-2, 2 KOs), Calgary, Alberta, Canada 145.2 lbs.

Heavyweight Bout – 8 Rounds
BOGDAN MARIUS DINU (12-0, 8 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada 244.4 lbs.
ED CHARLES PERRY (20-5-2, 11 KOs), Lafayette, Indiana, USA 246.2 lbs.

Featherweight Bout – 4 Rounds
VISLAN DALKHAEV (2-0, 0 KOs), Montreal, Quebec, Canada 121.2 lbs.
SAUL TEJADA (6-5-2, 1 KO), Leon, Spain 121.2 lbs.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel in association with InterBox,
are available to purchase at the Bell Centre box office, on www.evenko.ca, at GYM (514) 383-0666, and InterBox (450) 645-1077 or at Champion boxing club (514) 376-0980. Ticket prices range from $25 to $250 on the floor.

For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing and www.groupeyvonmichel.ca. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NBCSports, @InterBoxBute, @yvonmichelgym and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionsand www.facebook.com/NBCSports.




With big fights on the horizon, Witherspoon must get by Guivas this Saturday night at the Playground in Atlantic City

chazz-witherspoon_wins
Atlantic City, NJ (August 14, 2015)–This Saturday night at The Playground in Atlantic City, Heavyweight contender Chazz Witherspoon (33-3, 25 KO’s) will look to further his pursuit at a championship opportunity when he takes on Nicholas Guivas (11-2-2, 9 KO’s) in a 10-round bout that will headline a 12-bout card.

The fight card is promoted by Silver Spoon Promotions in conjunction with the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

Witherspoon of Paulsboro, New Jersey has been on the cusp of Heavyweight title opportunity knows that a big effort on Saturday will likely place him back in a significant fight that will put him in position to reach that lofty goal.

“Everything is great. I been working hard and had Eddie Chambers in camp. I feel good and healthy. I expect a big night,” said the 33 year-old Witherspoon.

It’s been a busy time for Witherspoon, who not only is the promoter for the event but just welcomed his 6th boy into the world with his wife Jennifer on August 6.

“We named him Lion. The pregnancy cut into my training a little but I am a focused guy and I have a good support team around us that I was able to get the proper training in and am very ready for Saturday.”

In Facing Guivas, Witherspoon is facing an upstart from Topeka, Kansas who has a respectable record of 11-2 and has 4 consecutive knockout victories to his credit.

“I really do not know much on him. He looks to be a strong guy. I saw that he has been boxing a while and has a good amateur pedigree. We have a strategy. I ran into him while taking fighters for medicals. He seems to be a nice guys but those are the guys who make the toughest fights. On Saturday, I know I have to be on my game to put on a great performance.”

Witherspoon is just biding his time until he gets the right call to face a top-10 guy and as he keeps racking up the wins, he knows that time is in the very near future.

“I have been getting those calls already. Obviously I have a good record and name. But so far the money has not been right but I believe we are getting close to taking one of those fights.”

Witherspoon is happy to be promoting and headlining the inaugural fight at the new venue, which is close to his home in Paulsboro, New Jersey.

“It’s always great to fight in Atlantic City. It’s a good venue, there is a large video screen. It has a real entertaining ambiance and it is a great show, so we are looking forward to a great night on Saturday. There will be a lot of boxers and dignitaries in attendance and it will be a great night with the announcement of the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.”

In 6-round bouts:

Keenan Smith (7-0, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia, PA will fight Lavelle Hadley (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Youngstown, OH.

Anthony Young (10-1, 5 KO’s) of Atlantic City, NJ will take Jonathan Garcia (4-14, 1 KO) in a Welterweight bout.

Wang Zhimin (3-0, 1 KO) of China will fight Carlos Nieves (0-7-1) of Bronx, NY in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Zhang Zhilei (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Las Vegas, NV will battle Dennis Benson (2-6-1, 1 KO) of Norfolk, VA in a Heavyweight bout.

John Lennox (13-2, 5 KO’s) of Carteret, NJ will take on Dan Pasciolla (3-1) of Brick, NJ in a Heavyweight fight.

In 4-round bouts:

Scott Kelleher of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against Xzavier Ford (0-1) of Concord, NC in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Jerome Conquest (2-1) of Philadelphia will battle pro debuting David Perez of Pittsburgh, PA Lightweight bout.

Parris Chisholm (2-0, 1 KO) of Washington, DC will fight Ronnie Jordan (1-5-1) of Cincinatti, Ohio in a Welterweight fight.

Dustin Fleischer (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Monmouth County, NJ will see action in a Welterweight bout against David Ratliff (0-1) of North Carolina.

Kashif Mohamed (0-1) of New York, NY will box Samuel Ellsworth (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Farmersville, LA in a Middleweight bout.

Eric Kitt (5-1, 2 KO’s) of Pensacola, FL will take on Gilbert Alex Sanchez (5-6-1, 2 KO’s) of Camden, NJ in a Middleweight bout.

The Playground is a brand-new, state of the art entertainment complex where the shops at the Pier used to be. The facility is 500,000 square feet.The Playground is located at One Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Tickets for this great night of boxing will range from $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com

Doors open at 6:30 PM with 1st bell at 8 PM




MIGUEL COTTO & CANELO ALVAREZ INTERNATIONAL MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL TRANSCRIPT

Miguel Cotto and Daniel Geale Weigh-in
MICHAEL YORKMAN, President & Chief of Branding and Strategy Roc Nation:
Good afternoon. It is a great day in boxing. As the fight of the year, which every boxing fan throughout the world has wanted to hear about and see, has finally become a reality: Cotto versus Canelo Alvarez, a 12 round fight for the total WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championship will take place on Saturday, November 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas.

The event will be produced and distributed live by our friends at HBO, Pay Per View, beginning at 9:00 PM Eastern, 6:00 PM Pacific time. The fight is presented by ROC Nation sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions. The event will be sponsored by Corona Extra, México, Live It to Believe It! and O’Reilly Auto Parts.

All information regarding ticket availability and our upcoming press tour for this fight will be announced very shortly. I’d like to acknowledge obviously some very important people on the line today, starting with Miguel Cotto, Gaby Penagaricano, Brian Perez, Hector Cotto, Oscar De La Hoya, Eric Gomez, Canelo Alvarez, Chepo Reynoso, Eddy Reynoso, Ken Herschman, Mark Taffet, and Richard Stern of MGM and Sid Greenfeid (ph) of MGM, as well as ROC Nation boxing chief operating officer, David Itskowitch, as well as Dino Duva.

Without a doubt, this is the biggest fight that can be made in the sport. And without a doubt, this is the one fight that again fans throughout the world have been anticipating for months and months and months. This fight is the fan’s fight. It will have guaranteed action and is Puerto Rico versus México.

It’s a proud moment for ROC Nation sports and our boxing division. Almost one year ago to the day, after the formation of our boxing division, we are announcing the biggest fight in the sport.

Now, to say a few words about the event and to introduce Eddy Reynoso and Canelo Alvarez, I’d like to turn it over to my good friend, to the man that was so professional and exhibited so much class during our negotiations, the Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, Mr. Oscar De La Hoya.

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions:

Thank you, Michael. I’m pleased to be on this call this afternoon to talk about the exciting upcoming fight between two champions.

This fight, both Cotto and Canelo want it, and the fans have been asking for. We are pleased to be working with Roc Nation to make this fight a reality for the fans. It will have everything that the fans want to see in boxing, and that’s action and intensity.

Thank you, once again, to Michael, to David, all the folks at ROC Nation. It really was a pleasure to be working with you on making this fight happen.

Obviously everyone at the HBO family, this is Canelo’s second fight on the network since signing the exclusive agreement with HBO last September, and as you know, HBO wants to show the best fights and fights that pit the best against the best. So I’m pleased Cotto v. Canelo will be televised live on HBO Pay Per View.

Also I want to thank our sponsors for their tremendous, tremendous support: Corona Extra, México, Live It to Believe It! and O’Reilly Auto Parts. We are pleased to always announce that the activations and the marketing that will be done for this event will be like no other.

And today, I am extremely proud to be introducing team Canelo. Canelo keeps on impressing us with every single fight. He has an impressive record of 45 1 with 32 knockouts. He just turned 25 years old. He hails out of Guadalajara Jalisco, México, and he has conquered the boxing world. He has captivated fans around the world with his action packed fighting style, with his charisma, and most importantly, his willingness to take on the toughest challenges.

Coming off the fight against James Kirkland in front of 31,000 screaming fans at Minute Maid Park in Houston where he had an incredible, incredible impressive knockout in the third round over James Kirkland, and they say, this could be the ‘Knockout of The Year.’
So for this fight against Miguel Cotto, Canelo has already started training camp. He is training hard and he will be ready for this war; and a war it will be on November 21. Mark my words, Cotto versus Canelo will be without a doubt the fight of the year. Boxing is alive and well in 2015.

Let’s talk a little bit about the rivalry. I mean, it doesn’t get any better than this. Puerto Rico versus México, boxing’s best rivalry, without a doubt, this fight will be the most exciting, the most action packed and the most intense in recent years. You go back to the Julio César Chávez days and you go back to Salvador Sánchez and you go back to Benítez, Gomez, the list goes on and on and on.

And now Miguel Cotto and Canelo Alvarez will write their own history, one that people will remember for a very long time as being one of the best fights in the history of the sport. Both fighters are willing, are hungry, are ready, and we cannot wait for this action packed fight that’s guaranteed because of the style.

So let me introduce to you Team Canelo. First up, Eddy Reynoso.

EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer to Canelo Alvarez:

Good afternoon, thank you to everybody that’s on the conference call. We are just very excited, very happy that the fight was made, and rest assured, this is going to be one of the biggest fights in this great rivalry between México and Puerto Rico.

DE LA HOYA: At this moment, I would like to present to you, my good friend from Team Canelo and that is Chepo Reynoso.

CHEPO REYNOSO, Manager to Canelo Alvarez:

Good afternoon to everybody. Like my son said, I’m very excited, I’m very happy the fight has been made, and very confident that this is just going to add to that chapter of great rivalries between México and Puerto Rico. We have the ingredients in these two fighters of warriors, warriors, tremendous fighters, that will be in the center of the ring and fight their hearts out. Neither of them will take a step back, and that’s what’s going to give the fans one of the best fights, one of the fights the fans have been waiting for, and you, the media, as well.

Thank you once again, and we are excited to be working and working hard to get this victory.

DE LA HOYA: Gracias, Eddy, Chepo. Now it is my pleasure before I introduce the champ, I want to say one thing.

In regards to the Pay Per View, we are discussing the fight which we will announce later on shortly. But mark my words, it will be a lot less than a hundred dollars, that’s for sure. So people are going to get a bang for their buck, and people are going to get guaranteed action, so we are just thrilled and happy that the fans are going to be the winners in this fight.
It is now my pleasure to introduce to you, the former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion, he’s the Mexican superstar, Saul Alvarez.

CANELO ALVAREZ, Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight Champion:

Good afternoon to everybody. I just want to say thank you. I’m very excited. I’m very happy. I’m honored to be fighting a fighter like Miguel Ángel Cotto who has achieved everything, and I assure everybody, I’m going to train hard like I always do, prepare. I want to thank everybody who made this fight possible, and I’m excited. I’m going to train very hard as always.

Q. Canelo, I’m wondering if you can answer: The fight has sort of been in the process of being made for a while. I know there’s a lot of people that look at this, like it dragged out for quite some time. Was there a point during all this, where you felt like this wasn’t going to get done for whatever reason, and how were you dealing with the emotions of getting to the point where the fight would finally be finalized? I know it’s a big one for you.

CANELO: It was a little long, the process, like you said. But that’s usual or common when there’s fights of this level, of this magnitude. I never lost faith that it was going to happen, whether it was here or the next fight.

I was sure that this was the fight obviously that everybody wanted to see and that it was going to happen. I’m just very happy it happened now and we are going to get ready for it.

Q. When you look at the kind of resumé that Miguel has put together in his career, he’s won a lot of world titles, and he’s been involved in some of the biggest fights in boxing for the better part of 15 years or so. What is Canelo’s thought of Miguel as a fighter, and just as a fan of boxing; did you like watching him fight when you were younger?

CANELO: Oh, definitely. He’s had an illustrious career. I’ve always liked watching him fight; his style, his boxing. It’s a great honor for me to be fighting a fighter like Miguel Ángel Cotto, and I’m thankful to God that this fight is happening and I’m just very excited.

Q. Everybody has been talking about this is another one of those fights in that great México versus Puerto Rico rivalry. From your point of view, even though you’ve had a lot of big fights already in your young career, did you think about the fact that at some point you wanted to have that kind of big fight, but one that was going to be remembered or that was highly anticipated in the pantheon of those great matchups between the Puerto Rican fighters and the Mexican fighters, and it seems that this is the one for you; that this is the kind of fight that fans of that rivalry will remember for a long time.

CANELO: Yes, definitely. This is a fight that I’ve been craving, I’ve been wanting. Obviously it’s a fight with a lot of responsibility, and I’m up for it. Like I do for all my fights, I train very hard and I prepare myself.

But yes, I’m looking forward to it because I know it can go down in history as one of the great fights between México and Puerto Rico and that’s what I’m looking forward to. My career is still far from over. I have many more fights to come, but this is one of the one that is I’ve been craving and wanting so bad.

Q. Did it bother you with the negotiations, the color of the ring, who comes in first, who comes in second?

CANELO: No, not at all. You know what, I’m very happy that the fight has just been done. I’m going to prepare. It’s an honor for me to be fighting someone like Miguel Angel Cotto, and we are going to prepare to win. We are going to train very hard like always and go out there and get the win.

Q. Will this fight with the win put you at the pinnacle of your career, put you at the top and put you in another dimension in boxing?

CANELO: Yes, exactly, these are the type of fights that I’ve always wanted, the big fights. It’s an honor to be fighting someone like Miguel Angel Cotto because of the illustrious career he’s had and we are going to train very hard. We are very motivated, very inspired to go out there and get the win, and keep advancing in my career.

Q. The people will not leave upset like they did with the Mayweather Pacquiao fight.

CANELO: No, not at all. This is a guarantee. Without a doubt, this is a fight. We are both coming to win. We are both going to fight. We are both going to lay it on, and without a doubt, this is a fight for reals.

Q. Was it a victory to have the fight in Vegas over New York?

CANELO: No, not at all. New York, Vegas, wherever, it’s the same thing. I think Vegas is just a neutral for both of us.

Q. Are we looking at it like a mirage, or just a rejuvenated Miguel Cotto who is having his best moment with Freddie Roach?

EDDY REYNOSO: No, he’s a tremendous fighter with tremendous experience. We know what he’s brings and he’s a great fighter and we respect that, and we are going to prepare very hard for it. And right now, just adding Freddie Roach, he’s looked tremendous.

Q. Do you have added pressure? Do you feel like you have to lift the fans’ expectations because of the fiasco recently between Mayweather and Pacquiao?

CANELO: No, I don’t base myself on other fights or other fighters. I focus on my fight and what I have to do, and that’s what I’m prepared to do. I’m going to train for that.

Q. The expectation of this being another chapter to the México/Puerto Rico rivalry?

CANELO: Yes, of course, it’s already started. You can sense it and that’s what we are going to prepare. Like I said it before, the styles will mix in well. We are going to clash well and it’s going to be added to the record books. It’s going to make history. We are going to put on a great fight.

Q. When did you first think about fighting Cotto and when do you think you were ready to challenge Miguel Cotto?

CANELO: It’s been about three years that we’ve been my group, my team, we’ve been thinking about this fight. And obviously from three years on, as it moved closer with every fight, the fans started clamoring it and talking about it. So it’s been on my mind for about three years.

Q. You really felt that you were ready to face and potentially beat Cotto; when did you know that you were ready for Cotto?

CANELO: Three years ago. Three years ago when it first came in mind, because I knew I could win. That’s why it came to my mind. It didn’t happen for whatever reasons back then. But now the fight’s here and we’re very happy and anxious and grateful and thank God.

Q. Who needs who more: Do you need him more or do you need him more?

CANELO: It’s mutual. I think the fans wanted it. We wanted to give it to the fans. We want to give them a great fight so it can go down in history and it’s a mutual. We got together and decided, let’s give it to the fans.

Q. How much easier were negotiations this time than the first time, I guess whatever went on that the fight didn’t happen? How much easier was it to secure the deal this time?

DE LA HOYA: For some reason it didn’t happen the first time around. But both times were fairly easy. When you have a partner like ROC Nation who understand the importance of this mega event, it takes time. It takes patience. It takes a lot of hard work.
But I would have to say it was fairly easy working with ROC Nation in putting this fight together. It was a long process, and like I said, it didn’t happen for a reason the first time around. But we’re extremely happy and proud that it is taking place November 21.

Q. I know obviously you wanted the fight to happen in May to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, but do you think it’s a blessing in disguise, the performances they both gave in May and June, makes the fight that much bigger.

DE LA HOYA: The fight is huge now. Obviously we recognize that in May, Mayweather Pacquiao was taking place, and now that that fiasco is all over with, we can focus on promoting the biggest fight in the history of the sport in November.

So we have no obstacles in front of us. We have our engines revved up ready to go and we’re going to promote this event to the world, and it’s going to be one of those events that the world is going to talk about for many years to come.

Q. Do you feel like this is going to be your introduction to a full time career at middleweight, or is the weight more so to weigh your options as to whether or not you could retire as a Super Welterweight?

CANELO: Right now the importance is this fight. I can’t tell you what’s going to happen in the future. Anything can happen after this fight but right now my focus is just totally on this fight. I feel very comfortable in my current division, Super Welterweight, but who knows, who knows what happens after. Only God knows.

Q. This fight is going to be fought at a test weight of 155 pounds, but still for the total middleweight title. The fighting at 155, is that going to be a tough sell, or does it not matter because the match-up is such a good match-up?

DE LA HOYA: Well, this is a fight that’s going to be for the middleweight title that Miguel Cotto holds. I mean, both Canelo and Cotto are obviously going to sell this fight alone. Whether it’s for no title or for a title, this fight is going to be a guaranteed sell with the fans because the fans know that this is going to be an exciting fight.

Q. Michael, there was talk about Andre Ward possibly fighting is that a done deal or is that still be worked out?

YORKMAN: It’s something that we are discussing but we are not we have not focused quite frankly on the undercard. That’s something that now after today’s announcement, Oscar and his team, David and his team will discuss further. But it is a consideration.

Q. Obviously in the Hispanic community, there’s always the rivalry, the fights. What one or two fights do you recall, because we know you like watching boxing and the history of boxing. Do you recall between México and Puerto Rico, which stand out or which couple fights stand out?

CANELO: Salvador Sánchez against Gomez; Julio César Chávez against Macho Camacho; and Oscar De La Hoya against Trinidad.

Right now I’m just very excited and motivated that I’ll be going into the history to add to that rivalry. That brings all the excitement.

Q. Are you ready to take that torch? Obviously in the Pay Per View, we’ve seen what you’ve done in your last few fights with the attendance, the fans, the numbers. Are you ready to carry on that torch as the leader in the Pay Per View with the fans and the fan favorites?

CANELO: All I do is train hard. I work hard. I fight to win. Obviously I win, and the rest is extra. The rest is a bonus. It just comes with the territory; it comes with the wins. But I’m not worried about that. It will come in I’m sure.

Q. Obviously there’s talks that he is past high and not young anymore, but we see that he’s having his best moment. Eddy, how do you prepare Saul? How do you prepare for a fight against a fighter like Miguel Angel Cotto?

EDDY REYNOSO: We prepare like we always do. We have plenty of time. We have three months to get ready. We train hard. We know when we’re having fun. We have to see all his virtues and his strengths. But we also have a great fighter that knows that to do up in the ring and has a lot of talent. We have plenty of time to get ready and that’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to train hard.

Q. Best of luck in the fight. In your career, the times you’ve had trouble in fights against guys who are slick boxers, Trout, Mayweather, guys who stick on the outside and box and Cotto is not that kind of a guy generally speaking. Do you think that plays into your strengths; that if this fight becomes a war, that your physical advantages and your youth will help you pull out the win?

CANELO: No, this is a 50/50 fight. I’ve said it, with his experience and everything, it’s 50/50. The winner of this fight is the one that’s going to train better, that’s going to work harder and that’s going to be able to lay out that plan inside the ring, and that’s what I’m going to work for. I’m going to prepare myself to win.

DE LA HOYA: Thank you very much to everyone, and like Michael said, we will be announcing everything else shortly. The undercard will be announced, the great, exciting cards that we will be putting together. Thank you to all the media across the globe. We cannot wait. Both fighters will be in tremendous shape and this fight will be guaranteed fireworks come November 21.

CANELO: I just want to thank everybody and let’s all enjoy this moment, everybody that made this happen. I’m just very grateful and looking forward to it. Thank you so much to everybody for making it happen.

YORKMAN: Let me go back for a moment. I’d like to thank, once again, Oscar De La Hoya, our partner at Golden Boy for his support in making this fight.
I’d like to thank HBO Pay Per View, as well as the Mandalay Bay. We look forward to working with both organizations over the next couple of months. As Oscar said previously, this is the fight of the year, without a doubt. It’s going to be action packed. Boxing fans throughout the world will be treated with an incredible value and a fight that will be filled with nonstop entertainment.

I once again want to acknowledge Team Cotto: Miguel Cotto, Gaby Penagaricano, Brian Perez and Hector Cotto.

I’d like to introduce the face of ROC Nation boxing, the reigning WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion, the first native of Puerto Rico to become World Champion in four different weight classes, the future Hall of Famer who has had 23 World Championship fights, and one of the biggest gate attractions in boxing, and one of the largest Pay Per View draws among active fighters around the world: I am proud to introduce the champion, Miguel Cotto.

MIGUEL COTTO, WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion:

Hi, everybody. Welcome to our press call, and I’m happy to be here and looking forward to the fight on November 21.

Q. This is such a big fight, but you’ve had a lot of these big fights before in your career, most of your career, had one big one after another. Is there any way that you can sum up in your mind where this rates in your anticipation or what you believe the fans’s anticipation is for this fight compared to all of the other big ones that you’ve had?

COTTO: Mine, I just can say that this fight is just another fight. I’m going to go to L.A. when we decide to go there, do my best as always, and go for Vegas to beat Canelo the night of the 21st.

Q. So you don’t think this is even your own personal excitement level or determination level on this is not a little bit bigger than other fights just based on the magnitude of interest from the public, from the media, the things that Canelo has accomplished, his fan base; you don’t think it’s bigger than another fight?

COTTO: I’d say Mayweather plays Martinez, he plays Pacquiao, he plays everybody. In my era, Canelo is just another name. Bring another big name to my record, and that’s what I see Canelo for my fight.

Q. So let me ask you this, then. He was very complimentary I to you. He said he called your career illustrious and he had all the respect for all of the things that you accomplished. Curious on your opinion on what you have seen from Canelo. He has not seen the accomplishments and has not fought nearly as long as you. How do you look at him? Are you a fan of his? Do you like watching? Have you met him? What are your thoughts about the young man?

COTTO: I’m not a real big fan of boxing. I’m just enjoy boxing when I’m boxing. But I know Canelo is a great fighter. I know he is a strong boxer. But I’m going to prepare enough to beat him the night of the 21st.

Q. A lot has been made already about the magnitude of the fight because of the fact that it putts yourself on one of the top Puerto Rican fighters in boxing history against Canelo Alvarez, probably one of the most popular Mexican fighters in boxing today and we know that’s a tremendous rivalry. You’ve had some of those fights, particularly against Antonio Margarito. What’s your view of that rivalry? Do you take it very seriously?

COTTO: Every fight is different. Canelo is a different boxer than than that if it was the day of the fight. But I know it’s going to be a great fight, a huge fight for all the fans, and I’m going to do my best to make a real nice fight for all the fans.

Q. Does the rivalry mean anything to you between the countries and their fans?

COTTO: Everybody knows what a fight between a Mexican and Puerto Rican means for boxing. People can expect the same from us.

Q. I asked Canelo the same question. Do you see 155 as your natural weight for however long? With the fight taking place at 155, do you see that as close to your natural weight for the rest of your career, your fight weight?

COTTO: With Geale was weight of 157 pounds, and Mayweather (ph) 153. The one with Martinez was for 159; I was 155. I’m a real middleweight. I look myself more than a Super Welterweight.

Q. Freddie, you’ve won three times with Cotto and he has looked better each time that you have had him. But Canelo is ten years younger and is physically stronger. How do you prepare a game plan for that?

FREDDIE ROACH, International Boxing Hall of Fame Trainer & Trainer of Miguel Cotto:

We have a big game plan for Miguel and we are going to work on that together. He’ll be in great shape of course. I don’t think he’s stronger than us to be honest with you, and I don’t think that’s a factor in the fight. I think we’re stronger than him. I think we’re the better puncher, and we will show on fight night.

But we will come up with a big game plan like we did in the last three fights. Miguel is a really hard worker and he’s very dedicated. Me and him, we do work very well together and I expect this to be one of the greatest fights of all time.

Q. Do you have the strength in your hands to put down a fighter that never has been down?

COTTO: I only have to be smart not strong enough to put him down. I have to be smart enough to do the job.

Q. This fight can be the very fight of the year, and could be a record selling on Pay Per View.

COTTO: Definitely that’s why we looked at Roach and we sat down as a teammate and we began working with Freddie

Q. Just wondering, looking at Canelo’s style, he’s such a fighter that during his career, he’s struggled against guys, Trout, Mayweather, guys who could box him and who could neutralize his advantages, his physical advantages in the ring. Do you see any weaknesses in his game, anything that you think that you can exploit in there or anything that you can do similar to what those guys have obviously done? Obviously your preferred style, Miguel, but anything you can take from the fights that he struggled that you can use against him on the 21st?

COTTO: When you have more than one tool in your bag, the opponent can bring whatever style he wants to bring, and you have something in your bag for it. We’ll do the same for this fight.

Q. Do you see anything stylistically in Canelo that works to Miguel’s advantage?

ROACH: He’s a good fighter. He’s a young guy. He’s a good puncher. He’s been in there with everybody. I think his last fight, it wasn’t a very high calibre opponent; and then someone told me, ours wasn’t either. And I said, no, ours was; our was a former two time world champion.

So I think better fighters I think this is a big step up for him and I think that we’re going to, Miguel will take him to school. I think we’re just too smart. We’re going to come out with a really good, great game plan. Me and Miguel worked really hard on that, we work really hard together and we are going to be at our best for this one. Again, this is a big, big fight for us.

Q. Do you think he’s going to come in there a little bit reckless like he did against Kirkland, being more of a puncher and not being much of a technician?

COTTO: I don’t think too aggressive or too reckless. He knows Miguel is a smart fighter and good counter puncher. But the thing is we’ll be coming like (inaudible) did it to him. We’ll see. But the thing is, as we work the game plan out and as we go with the sparring partners, I have some really good ones for this fight in my gym, and it’s going to be exciting, I’m sure.

Q. Two part question for you. I wanted to know, how badly you wanted the fight to take place in New York, since that’s where most of your biggest ones have been held, and do you feel like you’re actually due for a huge win in Las Vegas?

COTTO: I don’t care what is the place or the fight, no matter where, I’m going to do my best with Freddie. I’m going to do my best in the fight. And regarding the first part of the question, what was it?

Q. How badly did you want the fight to take place in most of your big wins take place in New York.

COTTO: That was a real big negotiation for this fight, but it’s already happened. It’s already made for us, for everybody, for the fans all over the world. I’m just going to be ready for him.

YORKMAN: Now that all the questions have been asked, I’ll just make a couple of closing comments.

I do want to say that again recording ticket availability and the press tour, as well as the undercard, that information will be available hopefully within the next week to ten days. We are planning a press tour, and we should have those dates actually confirmed by the beginning of next week.

I want to thank Miguel for joining us today. I want to thank Freddie for your time. Again, this is a very exciting moment for ROC Nation. You know, this is our one year anniversary almost to the day and to have the opportunity to promote this type of fight on this type of stage is truly an honor.

We look forward to promoting along with Golden Boy the absolute fight of the year, no question about it, a fight that obviously fans around the world have been anticipating, a fight that will be action packed and will absolutely live up to expectations in every which way.

We look forward to seeing you all on November 21. Thank you for your time today, and have a great afternoon.

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it! and O’Reilly Auto Parts. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

For more information, visit www.rocnation.com,www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com,
www.canelopromotions.com.mx, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.mandalaybay.com; follow on Twitter at @RocNation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @RealMiguelCotto, @Canelo, @HBOBoxing, and @MandalayBay; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RocNation, www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/RealMiguelACotto, www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and www.facebook.com/MandalayBay; and follow on Instagram @rocnation, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @realmiguelacotto, @Canelo, @HBOboxing and @MandalayBay. Follow the conversation using #CottoCanelo.




SALITA ADDS ANOTHER ATTRACTION TO CONEY ISLAND CARD, TITLE CHALLENGER JUNIOR WRIGHT

Junior Wright
BROOKLYN, NY (August 13, 2015) – Coney Island is known world-wide as a destination for varied entertainment options. Surf, sand, and sky-high roller coasters have thrilled fun seekers there for decades. It only figures then that promoter Dmitriy Salita’s boxing show August 25 at MCU Park in Brooklyn’s fun-zone, Coney Island, will feature an array of fistic talents, which are sure to offer fight fans a superb show, rivaling any carnival ride in the proximity.

Cruiserweight title challenger Junior Wright, coming off a solid showing in a world title challenge in Russia, is coming back to BK, to show off lessons learned against Rahkim Chakhkiev three months ago.

Wright is aching to get back on the winning track. “I think I am now a better fighter because I learned a lot from this, going to another country and competing. I picked up a lot, more experience from there,” said the 13-1-1 Chicagoan, who will meet rugged Michiganer Harvey Jolly in a bout scheduled for 6-rounds.

Wright, a busy technician, said he is enthused to appear for the third time on a card in NY. “New York is great man, I just feel like this another opportunity to show I am world class,” he said.

Promoter Salita is happy to add Wright to another of his superlative Brooklyn Brawls. “Junior Wright is an honorary New Yorker and fought his most memorable fight, against Steve Bujaj, in Brooklyn just last year. NYC fight fans are always asking about his next appearance in the city!

Salita, speaking of this latest addition to the card topped by 25-3-1 featherweight Alexander Miskirtchian taking on Cornelius Lock, continued: “Junior now has had the experience of fighting for a world title on the big stage and has learned a tremendous amount. He is very motivated to impress fans once again and climb back up the ladder to challenge the best in the division. A world-class fighter like Junior Wright will bring the excitement to the Brooklyn Cyclones stadium in Coney Island on August 25th!”

Snag your tix for “Boxing At the Beach” today, to insure you wind down the season with a rock em, sock em evening of pugilism.

Doors open at 6 PM. Log on to BrooklynCyclones.com to get your tickets or call 718-507-TIXX (718-507-8499).

Broadcast information will be announced at a later date. Interested corporate partners should contact Mark Fratto atmfratto@linacremedia.com

For ticket information and updates on “Brooklyn Brawl: Boxing At The Beach,” please log on toBrooklynCyclones.com and SalitaPromotions.com. Follow all the action via social media leading up to the event – and on fight night – at @BrooklynBrawlNY on Twitter and at @BrooklynBrawl on Instagram, or by accessing the tags #BrooklynBrawl and #BoxingAtTheBeach.




Local Favorite Mike Gavronski to Headline Battle at the Boat 102 this Saturday Night

Tacoma, Washington (August 13, 2015) Live from the Emerald Queen Casino this Saturday, August 15th at 7:00PM, Battle at the Boat 102 promises to deliver another huge night of world-class professional boxing action from inside the I-5 Showroom. Brought to you by Brian Halquist Productions, Battle at the Boat is the Pacific Northwest’s premier boxing showcase for up and coming stars from all along the West Coast and beyond.

Headlining this incredible night of fights will be Battle at the Boat veteran and Tacoma’s own Mike “Imagine Me” Gavronski (18-1-1 12KO’s) vs. Laatekwei Hammond (21-9 14KO’s) in a spectacular 10-round main event.

On an absolute tear as of late, hometown hero Gavronski will be looking to make it 5 wins in a row when he steps between the ropes across from the veteran Hammond, of Worcester, Massachusetts by way of Ghana. Gavronski’s incredible power and natural showmanship make each of the Tacoma native’s bouts a must-see attraction.

Prior to the main event of the evening, Vancouver native Jason Davis will be in action in a 5-round featured contest. Still riding momentum from a vicious knockout victory in May of this year, Davis will be looking to keep the streak alive against journeyman fighter David Lopez.

Also featured on the card will be blue chip prospect Marquice Weston (5-0-1 2KO’s) vs. David Sanchez (3-1 1KO) in another 5-round bout. The contest will mark Weston’s first trip outside of 4 rounds and the talented Sanchez will surely make for Weston’s toughest challenge to date.

The Battle at the Boat 102 card will be rounded out with three high-octane undercard bouts, featuring some of the most exciting fighters the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Those fights are as follows:

Jeremy McCleary (6-1) vs. Benjamin Vinson (1-4 1KO)
Sean Gee (2-0) vs. Alan Luk (debut)
Cameron Sevilla-Rivera (5-1-1 4KO’s) vs. Steve McKinney (1-3)

Battle at the Boat 102 is presented live from the Emerald Queen Casino on Saturday, August 15th. Doors will open at 6:00PM with the first bout scheduled for 7:00PM Tickets start at only $25 and are available through the Emerald Queen Casino box office as well as all Ticketmaster locations. For more info, please visit www.halquistproductions.com and the Battle at the Boat Facebook page.




WBC MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION MIGUEL COTTO AND FORMER TWO-TIME WORLD CHAMPION CANELO ALVAREZ SET FOR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MEGA-FIGHT ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Miguel Cotto
NEW YORK (August 13, 2015) – Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions are pleased to announce the highly anticipated clash of two titans in a classic Puerto Rico vs. Mexico battle. On Saturday, Nov. 21, Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs), the reigning WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion and the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes, and Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs), a former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion will finally meet in the ring at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas for the WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championship. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

The fight promises crowd-pleasing, high-intensity action between two powerful fighters competing in the primes of their careers who are both coming off of impressive, dominating performances in their most recent respective fights. With seven world titles between them, their impressive resumes and their levels of popularity in their home countries, Cotto vs. Canelo is shaping up to be the biggest fight in boxing this year and the biggest fight in the history of the famed Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry. The rivalry, which dates back to the 1930s, has seen epic clashes including those between Salvador “Sal” Sanchez and Wilfredo “Bazooka” Gomez, Julio Cesar “J.C.” Chavez and Hector “Macho” Camacho as well as the last super-fight of the 20th century between “The Golden Boy” Oscar De La Hoya and Felix “Tito” Trinidad.

Information regarding ticket availability and a press tour for the fight will be announced soon.

“I will give the fans the fight they want to see,” said Cotto. “As I have always said, during my whole career, I am here to fight the best names and the best fighters. This will be another chapter in my career and I will be ready for him. Fans will enjoy a real fight, another classic battle in the Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry.”

“Historically, mega-fights are made because fans demand them,” said Alvarez. “In this case, the fans have spoken out, longing for this fight and it is my pleasure to say that it is finally happening. All fights at this level are very important, but this fight in particular has something more. It will hold a special place in history as part of the big rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico, and I promise all the fans that this is going to be an event that will not disappoint.”

“Cotto vs. Canelo is the biggest fight in boxing, period,” said David Itskowitch, COO Boxing of Roc Nation Sports. “Given the fighters’ styles, it has all the makings of a can’t-miss, all-action fight. Couple that with the popularity of both Miguel and Canelo, and you have a true mega-fight that fans have been clamoring for and one that no sports fan should miss. November 21 has all the makings of a fight that will go down in boxing history as one of the greats.”

“This is the ‘Fight of the Year’ that true boxing fans have been waiting for between two of the biggest stars in the sport today, Miguel Cotto and Canelo Alvarez,” said Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya. “Cotto vs. Canelo will be an epic showdown, full of non-stop action from the moment the first bell rings. This fight is an example of exactly what Golden Boy Promotions does: puts on the best fights between top fighters in the primes of their careers.”

“We are excited to bring the fight that the fans of boxing deserve,” said Hector Soto, Miguel Cotto Promotions vice president. “This will be a real fight. On November 21, the world will witness the biggest fight in the history of Puerto Rico vs. Mexico rivalry.”

“The great rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico has a rich history in the sport of boxing,” said Jose “Chepo” Reynoso, Manager to Canelo Alvarez. “Classic fights like Julio Cesar ‘J.C.’ Chavez vs. Hector ‘Macho’ Camacho and Wilfredo Gomez vs. Salvador Sanchez are prime examples of the history of that great rivalry. Cotto-Canelo will become part of that history, a fight that most likely will be the biggest fight to date due to the great popularity of both of the warriors. Fans demanded this fight and now have it!”

“Miguel Cotto and Canelo Alvarez have earned the adulation and respect of fans the world over for both stepping into the ring against the most formidable opposition as well as giving everything in their arsenal to try and win their fights,” said Mark Taffet, Senior Vice President, HBO Pay-Per-View. “Uniquely, Cotto-Canelo is a can’t-miss fan-friendly mega-fight and the most highly anticipated event of the second half of the year. We are delighted to serve as the television partner for this red-hot PPV showdown on November 21 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.”

“The Miguel Cotto vs. Canelo Alvarez championship event will be one of the most entertaining, action-packed fights of 2015,” said Richard Sturm, president of sports and entertainment for MGM Resorts International. “We look forward to hosting these two great warriors in November as they deliver boxing fans worldwide a thrilling night from inside the Mandalay Bay Events Center.”

Miguel Cotto (40-4, 33 KOs) is the reigning WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion and the first native of Puerto Rico to become world champion in four different weight classes. He is the former WBO Junior Welterweight World Champion, the former WBA Welterweight World Champion, the former WBO Welterweight World Champion and the former WBA Super Welterweight World Champion. He also represented Puerto Rico in the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia. Cotto has competed in 23 world championship fights, compiling a record of 19-4 with 16 knockouts in those bouts. In Puerto Rico, he is hailed as a national hero and the successor of Felix “Tito” Trinidad as the island’s most revered boxer. Cotto is one of the biggest gate attractions in boxing and one of the largest pay-per-view draws among active fighters. In June 2014, Cotto made history in his first fight as a middleweight by dominating Argentine southpaw and defending WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Champion Sergio “Maravilla” Martinez (51-2-2, 28 KOs). He is trained by legendary Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach and has fought some of the biggest names in the sport including Floyd “Money” Mayweather and Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao. Cotto owns his own boxing promotional company in Puerto Rico, Miguel Cotto Promotions, and presides over his charity La Fundación El Ángel de Miguel Cotto, a non-profit organization dedicated to combatting childhood obesity. In March 2015, Cotto and Roc Nation Sports announced that they had entered into a partnership that includes a co-promotional agreement with Miguel Cotto Promotions to promote Cotto’s fights. On June 6, 2015, almost one year to the day since his last appearance in the ring, Cotto defended his WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Championships against former two-time World Champion Daniel Geale (31-3) at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Cotto scored a thunderous knockdown early in the fourth round before finishing matters with a second knockdown midway through the round, which left Geale unable to continue. He now looks to further cement his Hall of Fame resume with a win over Canelo.

At the age of 25, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico’s Canelo Alvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) has conquered the boxing world, captivating fans both in Mexico and around the globe with his action-packed fighting style, charisma and willingness to take on the toughest challenges. Alvarez’s road to stardom began in 2011 with a win over Matthew “Magic” Hatton for the vacant WBC Super Welterweight World title in March, his first title defense against Ryan Rhodes in June and stoppage victories over Alfonso Gomez and former World Champion Kermit Cintron in September and November respectively. On May 5, 2012, Alvarez defended his belt for the fourth time when he faced future Hall of Famer Sugar Shane Mosley as part of the “Ring Kings: Mayweather vs. Cotto” pay-per-view telecast. Even though the fight lasted 12 rounds, the popular Mexican showed the 40 year-old veteran the road to retirement, winning via unanimous decision. The victory over Mosley set up a September 15 showdown with breakout star Josesito Lopez in which he knocked Lopez down three times before ending the bout with a fifth round technical knockout. Next, boxing’s most popular phenom continued on the path to superstardom with a 12-round unanimous decision over WBA Super Welterweight World Champion Austin Trout on May 4, 2013 in front of over 39,000 fans at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas which made him a unified world champion. The win proved Alvarez’s supremacy at 154 pounds and also made it clear that he was a bona fide ticket seller wherever he decided to fight. On September 14, 2013, Alvarez faced the man on top of the pound-for-pound list, Floyd “Money” Mayweather. He put forth a stellar effort before falling short of victory for the first time as a professional via a 12-round majority decision. The fight ended up being not just the biggest of 2013, but also the second highest grossing bout of all time and the second most watched boxing event ever on Mexican television (only behind this year’s Mayweather-Pacquiao). Since then, Alvarez has won three straight fights, defeating top stars Alfredo “Perro” Angulo on March 8, 2014 via technical knockout in the 10th round and Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara via split decision on July 12, 2014. On May 9, 2015, Alvarez dazzled with a victory over the fierce James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland at Minute Maid Park in Houston in front of more than 31,000 fans that featured what many have already deemed the “Knockout of the Year.” Now, Alvarez is on a mission to position himself as the most popular boxer of his generation and break into the top pound-for-pound list when he faces the feared Miguel Cotto on November 21.

Cotto vs. Canelo, a 12-round fight for Cotto’s WBC and Ring Magazine Middleweight World Championships, takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight is presented by Roc Nation Sports, Golden Boy Promotions, Miguel Cotto Promotions and Canelo Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra; Mexico, Live it to Believe it! and O’Reilly Auto Parts. The event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.




Nicholas Guivas sees Witherspoon opportunity a gateway to bigger fights

Atlantic City, NJ (August 13, 2015)–This Saturday night at The Playground in Atlantic City, Heavyweight contender Chazz Witherspoon will look to further his pursuit at a championship opportunity when he takes on Nicholas Guivas in a 10-round bout that will headline a 12-bout card.

The fight card is promoted by Silverspoon Promotions in conjunction with the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame.

Guivas of Topeka, Kansas has other ideas in mind as he has aspirations of his own to compete at the highest level and a victory over the well regarded Witherspoon will help facilitate those major opportunities.

The 36 year-old Guivas is coming to win and has been working hard in his native Topeka.

“I have been training very hard and everything is going pretty good,” said Guivas, who by day is a service technician at Coca-Cola.

“Saturday I will be there to do a job. I have worked very hard and now it is time to take care at the task at hand.”

Asked what he knows about Witherspoon, Guivas said, “He is a long guy who has a strong jab. From what I have seen, he moves well. I will have to get on the inside and stick to the gameplan.”

Guivas has won 4-straight which includes three straight first round knockouts and he is coming off a 6th round stoppage over Justin Willms on June 6. Because of the streak, Guivas is brimming with confidence.

“I have had hard fights. The last fight was tougher than it should have been. I wasn’t ready mentally. I was ready physically so I was able to push hard and do what I had to do.”

Guivas who started boxing at 7 years-old and is passionate about the sport knows that a win on Saturday night will take him to places and fights that will change his life.

“This is a huge fight for me. My goal is to handle business and when that happens I will shoot up in the rankings and will be in the mix for big fights.”

In 6-round bouts:

Keenan Smith (7-0, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia, PA will fight Lavelle Hadley (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Youngstown, OH.

Anthony Young (10-1, 5 KO’s) of Atlantic City, NJ will take Jonathan Garcia (4-14, 1 KO) in a Welterweight bout.

Wang Zhimin (3-0, 1 KO) of China will fight Rashad Bogar (4-5-1, 2 KO’s) of Newark, NJ in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Zhang Zhilei (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Las Vegas, NV will battle Dennis Benson (2-6-1, 1 KO) of Norfolk, VA in a Heavyweight bout.

John Lennox (13-2, 5 KO’s) of Carteret, NJ will take on Dan Pasciolla (3-1) of Brick, NJ in a Heavyweight fight.

In 4-round bouts:

Scott Kelleher of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against Xzavier Ford (0-1) of Concord, NC in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Jerome Conquest (2-1) of Philadelphia will battle pro debuting David Perez of Pittsburgh, PA Lightweight bout.

Parris Chisholm (2-0, 1 KO) of Washington, DC will fight Ronnie Jordan (1-5-1) of Cincinatti, Ohio in a Welterweight fight.

Dustin Fleischer (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Monmouth County, NJ will see action in a Welterweight bout against David Ratliff (0-1) of North Carolina.

Kashif Mohamed (0-1) of New York, NY will box Samuel Ellsworth (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Farmersville, LA in a Middleweight bout.

Eric Kitt (5-1, 2 KO’s) of Pensacola, FL will take on Gilbert Alex Sanchez (5-6-1, 2 KO’s) of Camden, NJ in a Middleweight bout.

The playground is a brand-new, state of the art entertainment complex where the shops at the Pier used to be. The facility is 500,000 square feet.The Playground is located at One Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Tickets for this great night of boxing will range from $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com

Doors open at 6:30 PM with 1st bell at 8 PM




2008 U.S. OLYMPIAN AND HEAVY HITTING MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION TUREANO JOHNSON SIGNS WITH GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS

Taureano Johnson
LOS ANGELES (August 13, 2015) – WBA International Middleweight and WBC Silver Middleweight Titlist standout Tureano Johnson (18-1, 13 KOs) of Nassau in the Bahamas, has signed on with Golden Boy Promotions to help him on the road to becoming one of the new kings of the hot middleweight division.

Joining an exceptional stable of middleweight fighters at Golden Boy Promotions including Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez and IBF Middleweight World Champion David Lemieux, Johnson has shown himself as a fierce competitor racking up an impressive 18 victories with only one loss, a controversial tenth round stoppage against Curtis Stevens in 2014. Johnson, a former 2008 U.S. Olympian who now trains in Georgia, is currently ranked in the top five of middleweight rankings for WBC, WBA, and IBF, and ranked eleventh by the WBO.

“At this point in my career, it is important for me to stay focused on my goals which are to fight, to provide for my family, to make my Country proud, but ultimately to do what I was born to do to become a World Champion,” said Tureano Johnson. “I have had many good offers but this decision was made based on my purpose, for I believe boxing is not a sport, it’s a lifestyle. For that reason and with a new team trainer, Tyrone Jones, new manager Garcia O Staley Sr. from Titanium Sports and Entertainment, and promoter Golden Boy Promotions, I would say I made a Golden decision, the legacy lives.”

“Tureano Johnson has proven himself to be a top contender in the middleweight division,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. “This year, the middleweight division has catapulted itself back into the forefront of boxing with a caliber of talent reminiscent of legendary fighters like Carlos ‘Escopeta’ Monzon, ‘Marvelous’ Marvin Haggler and Bernard ‘The Alien’ Hopkins. Johnson has demonstrated his ability to become a champion and with Golden Boy Promotions at his side, he has the opportunity to grow into a top middleweight of this era.”

Boasting a stellar amateur career of more than 300 fights, Johnson accumulated many accolades early in his career including the best boxer award at the Caribbean Amateur Boxing Association Championships an impressive four times. In 2008, Johnson advanced to the quarterfinals on the U.S. Olympic team in Beijing, China. At the age of 26, Johnson made his professional debut in 2010 and quickly amassed 18 wins with his some of his greatest triumphs happening in 2014, including an unanimous decision against the previously undefeated Mike Gavronski earning him the vacant WBC Continental Americas Middleweight Title in July; an 87-second knockout of Valerio Marte in November and a sixth round stoppage of Humberto Toledo in December. Johnson opened up 2015 with an impressive victory over Alex Theran in January, earning the vacant WBA International Middleweight and vacant WBC Silver Middleweight Titles.

More information on Tureano’s next fight will be announced soon. For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @Tureano1984 become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing or follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya and @Tureano1984.




Sauerland: Swedish support can propel Skoglund to stardom

Promoter Nisse Sauerland believes Erik Skoglund (22-0, 11 KOs) is set for stardom as the undefeated Swede prepares for a historic homecoming on September 19 at the Rosvalla Stora Ishallen at the Nyköpings Arenor in Nyköping, Sweden.

Skoglund will become the first male boxer to contest a major title on Swedish soil since 1968 when he defends his IBF Intercontinental belt against Oleskandr Cherviak (15-4-1, 5 KOs), and with the backing of his home fans, Sauerland expects the 24 year-old to impress as he continues his climb to the top of the light heavyweight division.

‘’I’ve had the pleasure of working with Erik for the past five years,’’ said Sauerland. ‘’In that time he’s developed from a talented young amateur to a bona fide world title contender. The end goal has always been for Erik to return home and fight in Sweden and we’re delighted his chance has finally come.

‘’With the backing of his home fans, I have no doubt that Erik can follow in the footsteps of Swedish greats like Ingemar Johansson and become the country’s next big super star. He has all the talent in the world and for a fighter like him the sky really is the limit.

‘’He’s hard working, clean living and extremely dedicated – all the makings of a future world champion. Now, I believe he’s ready to fulfill his potential. Erik is already on the cusp of a world title fight and a victory on September 19 will move him even closer to realising his ultimate ambition.

‘’Cherviak is a tough opponent and will be coming to win, but this is Erik’s time to shine. This is his chance to show everybody what he can do and prove once and for all that he is ready to face the very best in the division.’’

Tickets for Erik Skoglund’s IBF Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Championship fight with Oleskandr Cherviak are available via biljettforum.se.




PBC on NBCSN in Montreal Final press conference quotes

MONTRÉAL (August 12, 2015) – Only three days prior to their Premier Boxing Champions on NBCSN fights, participating boxers on the August 15 card at Bell Centre in Montreal held a press conference Wednesday at the Montreal Casino.

Televised coverage is headlined by a 10-round showdown between Lucian “Le Tombeur” Bute (31-2, 24 KOs) and Andrea Di Luisa (17-2). Also featured on NBCSN is light heavyweight contender Eleider “Storm” Alvarez (17-0) versus Isidro Ranoni “El Guerrero” Prieto (24-0-3) in a 12-round bout for the WBC Silver belt.

LUCIAN BUTE

“I would like to thank Andrea Di Luisa for accepting this challenge and to fight me at home. My preparation was great. In the last few years, I had health problems that affected my performances. What I can say now is that I’m fully healthy. I did almost 100 rounds of sparring for this fight. I am back!”

ANDREA DI LUISA

“This bout is a rematch of an amateur fight we had 15 years ago. This is different this time because Bute is now a former world champion and a well know name in the sport. Make no mistake, I am here to fight.”

ELEIDER ALVAREZ

“This is the biggest challenge of my career. Prieto’s record says it all: he has 20 KO’s in 24 wins. The problem is that he will face a new Alvarez. Since my elbow surgery, my jab, which is my money punch, is amazing. I also want to look good in front of my fans in Montreal and on American television.”

ISIDRO RANONI PRIETO

“I will do my best to bring back the WBC light heavyweight Silver belt home to Argentina.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel in association with InterBox,
are available to purchase at the Bell Centre box office, on www.evenko.ca, at GYM (514) 383-0666, at InterBox (450) 645-1077 or at Champion boxing club (514) 376-0980. Ticket prices range from $25 to $250 on the floor.

For more information, visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.nbcsports.com/boxing and www.groupeyvonmichel.ca. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NBCSports, @InterBoxBute, @yvonmichelgym and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampionsand www.facebook.com/NBCSports.




DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT RE-SIGNS SUPER BANTAMWEIGHT LUIS ROSA TO LONG-TERM DEAL

New York, NY (8/12/15) – This Friday night, undefeated super bantamweight contender Luis Rosa (20-0, 10KO’s) will look to provide some early fireworks when he squares off against Mexico’s Giovanni Caro (24-16-4, 19KO’s) on the undercard of PBC on Spike’s eagerly anticipated event at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. The card, headlined by former light heavyweight champion, and now heavyweight contender Antonio Tarver (31-6, 22KO’s) taking on fellow contender Steve Cunningham (28-7, 13KO’s), is set to kick off at 6 p.m. ET. Live coverage on Spike begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT with the American debut of cruiserweight kingpin Marco Huck (38-2-1, 26KO’s) squaring off against undefeated Polish contender Krzysztof Glowacki (24-0, 15KO’s).

The 24-year-old Rosa is one of the truly bright young stars on the loaded DiBella Entertainment (DBE) roster. Having turned pro at just 18 years of age, Rosa, who initially signed with DBE in 2010, has re-signed a long-term agreem

ent with promoter Lou DiBella, as he looks to become the next homegrown world champion to emerge from the DBE roster.

“I am glad to have re-signed with Lou (DiBella) and continue my career under the DBE banner. I am ready to put on a great show on Friday night. I have had another great camp and am in tremendous shape for this fight. I am excited and ready for another victory come Friday night. I want to thank God for the talent he has given me, and my team, and Lou for this opportunity,” said Rosa.

“Team Rosa is grateful, excited and dedicated to a successful relationship with DiBella Entertainment. We know re-signing was a great choice and we are confident that our future and venture together will be a victorious one. To God all the glory,” said mother and manager Marilyn Rosa.

“Luis Rosa has already proven that he is a serious contender in the junior featherweight division,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “I am very pleased to continue with our relationship. I expect big things from Rosa in the near future and I believe he is a future world champion.”

Already ranked number 15 in the WBC world ratings, Rosa has really come into his own over the past two years, which saw him gain massive exposure with three very impressive performances on national TV. In January of 2014, Rosa made his ESPN Friday Night Fights debut with a dominant and entertaining eight-round unanimous decision over contender Jorge Diaz. Rosa followed up that performance five months later in May with his most impressive victory to date, a 10-round unanimous decision against fellow highly regarded contender and former amateur standout Luis Orlando Del Valle. Rosa is coming off a fifth-round TKO victory, also on Friday Night Fights, over longtime contender Jonathan Perez in May of this year. Rosa knows that a world title opportunity is not too far off, but to continue in that direction, he must take care of business on Friday night against the heavy-handed Caro. The bout between Rosa and Caro is scheduled for eight rounds and will be one of the featured undercard bouts of the evening.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Huck Sports Promotion are priced at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.com, www.PruCenter.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AntonioTarver, @USSCunningham, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @PruCenter, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/PruCenterand www.Facebook.com/Spike.




FORMER WORLD CHAMPION AUSTIN TROUT TAKES ON JOEY HERNANDEZ IN THE MAIN EVENT OF THE INAUGURAL PREMIER BOXNG CHAMPIONS ON FOX SPORTS 1 EVENT, SEPTEMBER 8

Austin_Trout
HOLLYWOOD, CA (August 12, 2015) – Former world champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout (29-2, 16 KOs) takes on Joey “Twinkle Fingers” Hernandez (24-3-1, 14 KOs) in a super welterweight attraction as part of FS1’s TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS live from the legendary Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California Tuesday, September 8th.

Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with a junior featherweight showdown between undefeated rising star Jorge Lara (27-0-1, 19 KOs) and Jesus Rojas (21-1-1, 15 KOs). This show will be the first installment of Premier Boxing Champions on FOX Sports 1.

“I’m very excited to be fighting for the fourth time in Los Angeles and at such a legendary venue as The Palladium in Hollywood,” said Trout. “My fight against Joey Hernandez kicks off the brand new series on Fox Sports 1 and I plan on putting on a spectacular show for the fans. I’m one of the best fighters at 154-pounds and I’m ready to prove it again.”

“This is a big fight for me and I’m grateful to have the opportunity on this stage,” said Hernandez. “I’m coming with no fear and I’m coming to win. I respect what Austin Trout has done in the sport but I’m going to make his life miserable on September 8.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $78.50, $53.50 and $28.50, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale today at 2 p.m. PT. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

In 2004, Trout won the U.S. National Amateur welterweight championship and after climbing up the ranks as an elite pro boxer, he won a super welterweight world championship in 2004 by defeating Rigoberto Alvarez. He went on to defend that title four times, including a dominant victory over Miguel Cotto in New York. He is currently on a three-fight win streak and is looking for a big win over Hernandez.

Fighting out of Miami, Hernandez is known for his fast hands that have landed him in big fights against top super welterweights and aided him to victories against Jose Berrio, James Winchester and Angel Hernandez. The 30-year-old southpaw will get another tough test when he takes on Trout on September 8.

Undefeated out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Lara made his U.S. debut on March 7 with a first round stoppage of Mario Macias in Las Vegas. The 24-year-old has ended seven of his last eight opponents early including experienced contenders Jovanny Soto, Jairo Hernandez and Oscar Ibarra. His second opportunity in the U.S. will see him step up in competition to take on the once-beaten Rojas.

Representing Caguas, Puerto Rico, Rojas will be fighting for the first time in California as a professional on September 8. The 28-year-old comes into the fight on a three-match winning streak, having not lost since 2008. He owns victories over Juan Carlos Pena, Jose Luis Araiza and Reynaldo Lopez and hopes to add an even more impressive name in Lara to that list.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage, www.TGBPromotions.com and http://www.livenation.com/venues/14586/hollywood-palladium
Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @NoDoubtTrout, @JoeyHernandez, @FOXSports1, @TGBPromotions, @ThePalladium and @Swanson_Comm and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions.




OLEKSANDR USYK RETURNS TO BATTLE AUGUST 29 IN KIEV!!!

Kiev, Ukraine (August 12, 2015) World ranked cruiserweight contender OLEKSANDR USYK will return to battle against South Africa’s JOHNNY “The Hurricane” MULLER in the 10-round main event on Saturday, August 29 at the Palace of Sports in Kiev, Ukraine.

Sporting a perfect record of 7-0 with seven knockouts, the 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist will defend his WBO Inter-Continental Cruiserweight Title in the 10-round main event against Muller, 19-4-2 (13KO’s).

Usyk is currently world ranked #2 by the World Boxing Organization while Muller is ranked #15 by the same sanctioning body.

This will be Usyk’s fourth fight in his hometown of Kiev.

‘I’m very excited to fight in Kiev again, the fans all over Ukraine have been very supportive,” said Usyk. “Muller is a rugged fighter but I’ll be very well prepared for victory on August 29th.”

“This is another test for Oleksandr, Muller is a tough, very experienced fighter from South Africa with plenty of knockouts” said Alexander Krassyuk of K2 Promotions Ukraine. “As he continues to fight and win impressively, Oleksandr’s worldwide popularity continues to grow.”

Usyk returns to the ring following an eighth round knockout of Russian Andrey Knyazev on April 18 at the Palace of Sports.

“The victory over Knyazev was a massive event with the highest TV ratings we’ve had in recent years.”

Fighting out of Gauteng, South Africa, Muller is coming off his career best victory, a 10-round decision win over Mateusz Masternak on June 6 in Gauteng.

Also featured on the August 29 fight card is pro debuting 2012 Ukrainian Olympic teammate Denys Berinchyk. The silver medalist will face Tarik Madni, 19-8-1 (1KO), of Belgium in a scheduled six round junior welterweight clash.




Two-Time World Heavyweight Champion Shannon Briggs To Battle Mike Marrone in Main Event of Historic ‘World Heavyweight Champions – Saturday Fight Night’ Sept. 5, at Hard Rock Live

shannon-briggs12
Michael Buffer: Just think if you were walking into a room and there were a group of men that were the MVPs of the last 25 world series. That’s what this is going to be like on September 5 at the Hard Rock. It’s going to be a great night.

Michael Moorer: I have been talking to all of these heavyweight champions over the past couple of months and they are all very excited to come in here for this big weekend. They will all be here.

Mike Marrone: All these people yelling for you in here – they don’t fight for you Shannon. You fight for you. On the fifth, in the ing, it’s just going to be me and you. None of that matters to me because on September 5 I am coming to win.

Shannon Briggs: I am so ready for this fight. I could fight right now. I am looking to do big things and this guy Marrone is in my way. You know I want to fight Klitschko but I have to take care of this guy first and I am ready (looking at Marrone). I am the champ. I am the two-time heavyweight champion of the world and I am in phenomenal shape – the best shape of my life (takes shirt off). Look at me. Look at me now! (steps out in front of podium).

Marrone: So am I. I am ready to fight right now too (leaning over to the edge of his seat).

Hollywood, Fla. (Aug. 11, 2015) – On Saturday, Sept. 5, with more than 20 former world heavyweight champions ringside, former Lineal and World Boxing Organization (WBO) world heavyweight champion Shannon “The Cannon” Briggs will battle Mike Marrone in a 12-round heavyweight bout, headlining “World Heavyweight Champions – Saturday Fight Night” at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

The event’s card features eight heavyweight bouts with world-famous ring announcer Michael Buffer calling the main event to the ring. The ringside area will consist of V.I.P. tables of 10, each with a former world heavyweight champion as a guest-host. Tables are being sold as part of a sponsorship package that will include numerous items, including autographs and photos.

Undisputed world heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield will be ringside, as well as reigning WBA, IBF and WBO champion Wladimir Klitschko. Undisputed world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson will be attending festivities leading up to Saturday Fight Night. Other former world heavyweight champions confirmed to attend include Lennox Lewis, Roy Jones Jr., Larry Holmes, Michael Moorer, Riddick Bowe, Ray Mercer, Hasim Rahman, Tony Tucker, Tony Tubbs, James “Bonecrusher” Smith, Michael Bentt, Lamon Brewster, Chris Byrd, John Ruiz, Mike Weaver, Tim Witherspoon, Pinklon Thomas, Leon Spinks, Michael Spinks and Bruce Seldon.

Shannon “The Cannon” Briggs (58-6-1, 51 KOs), from Brooklyn, New York, made his professional debut in 1992 and began his career with 25 consecutive wins. He is the current world-record-holder for 38 first-round knockouts. Briggs defeated George Foreman on Nov. 22, 1997, to become the Lineal Heavyweight Champion and defeated Sergei Liakhovich on Nov. 6, 2005, for the WBO world heavyweight title; he will enter the ring on Sept. 5 to further his quest to defeat a third world heavyweight champion.

Mike Marrone (21-4, 15 KOs) from Vero Beach, Florida, made his professional debut in 2004 and won his first 18 bouts, 12 of which were by knockout. He last fought at the Hard Rock in 2011 and lost a world cruiserweight title fight to Guillermo Jones.

Tickets cost $154, $104 and $54.* 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 one hour prior to show start time. *Additional fees may apply.

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About Hard Rock Live
Hard Rock Live, a spectacular state-of-the-art facility, further expands the ultimate entertainment experience at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. This 5,500-seat indoor arena has attracted more than 3 million people since its opening in 2005 and has regularly hosted South Florida’s greatest variety of musical acts such as Bruce Springsteen, Eric Clapton, Marc Anthony, Billy Joel, Andrea Bocelli, Tim McGraw and Carlos Santana; top comedians including Chris Rock, Robin Williams, Kathy Griffin and George Lopez; as well as major sporting events and events of major sports stars, from UFC matches to charity galas for Jason Taylor, Alonzo Mourning, Dwyane Wade and more. For additional information, please visit www.hardrocklivehollywoodfl.com or www.myhrl.com.

About Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, is a Green Lodging-Certified, AAA Four Diamond-rated resort showcasing 469 luxurious guest rooms, award-winning restaurants, high-energy nightlife, boutique retail shops, Rock Spa, 40,000 square feet of meeting room space and the 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live concert arena. As South Florida’s premier destination for fun and entertainment, Seminole Hard Rock offers over 100 table games of Blackjack, Baccarat and more on a nearly three-acre casino floor. In addition, 2,000 slots include linked Multi-Area Progressive Jackpots and Mega Jackpots. Fine dining options include Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, the resort’s signature steakhouse, and Kuro, offering new-style Japanese cuisine. The poker room, located in Seminole Paradise, hosts various games and tournaments of Limit and No Limit Texas Hold ’em, 7-Card Stud and two-dollar and four-dollar-limit Omaha Hi Lo games. Located inside the casino is Hard Rock Cafe – Hollywood, part of Hard Rock’s 153 globally recognized rock ‘n’ roll restaurants.

For more information, call (954) 327-ROCK or (800) 937-0010, visit us online at www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com, or follow us on Facebook: @SeminoleHardRockHollywood, Twitter: @HardRockHolly, Instagram: @HardRockHolly.




GOLOVKIN VS. LEMIEUX MIDDLEWEIGHT TITLE UNIFICATION SETS BOX OFFICE RECORD AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN!!!

Gennady Golovkin
New York City (August 12, 2015) A new Madison Square Garden box office record has been set by the highly anticipated World Middleweight Championship Title Unification between WBA/IBO and “Interim” WBC Champion GENNADY “GGG” GOLOVKIN, (33-0, 30KO’s), and IBF Champion DAVID LEMIEUX (34-2, 31KO’s) headlining the historic venue on Saturday, October 17.

A pre-sale of over 6,000 tickets established a new record at the “Mecca of Boxing”, shattering all previous marks for boxing events.

“The interest from fans in this middleweight title unification has been overwhelming,” said Tom Loeffler, Managing Director of K2 Promotions. “Madison Square Garden has never had a faster pre-sale for a boxing event. “

“We’re ecstatic at the response from the pre-sale and look forward to very strong ticket sales continuing throughout the promotion. With this high level of interest we strongly encourage boxing fans to purchase their tickets well in advance.”

“This record-breaking pre-sale only confirms that this fight will be one of the most exciting of the year as the best meets the best for middleweight supremacy,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. “Fans are thirsty for action and they know that is what David Lemieux and Gennady Golovkin will deliver on October 17 at Madison Square Garden.”

“It’s not a surprise and we are thrilled that tickets are going fast for Golovkin vs. Lemieux at The Garden on October 17th,” said Joel Fisher, executive vice president, MSG Sports. “Gennady has made a name for himself in New York – he has fought at The Garden four times and knocked out all four opponents. Between Golovkin and Lemieux they have a staggering 61 KO’s in 69 fights and we’re urging fans not to blink once the bell rings.”

Just announced, ROMAN “Chocolatito” GONZALEZ, (43-0, 37KO’s) will defend his WBC Flyweight World Championship against former two-division world champion BRIAN “The Hawaiian Punch” VILORIA (36-4, 22KO’s) as the exciting co-feature on October 17 at Madison Square Garden.

Tickets for GOLOVKIN vs. LEMIEUX are on sale now and are priced at $500, $300, $200, $100 and $50, tickets can purchased at the Madison Square Garden Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster charge by phone (866-858-0008) and online at www.ticketmaster.com or www.thegarden.com.

Golovkin vs. Lemieux is presented by K2 Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions in association with GGG Promotions and Eye of the Tiger Management. The championship event will take place Saturday, October 17 from Madison Square Garden and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

For fight updates on GOLOVKIN vs. LEMIEUX and GONZALEZ vs. VILORIA via social media follow on Twitter and Instagram at @TomLoeffler1, @GoldenBoyBoxing, @GGGBoxing, @LemieuxBoxing, @ChocolatitoBox, @BrianViloria and @HBOBoxing and join the conversation using #GolovkinLemieux and #GonzalezViloria.

Also become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/GGGBoxing, www.facebook.com/EyeofTheTigerManagement and www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing.

For more information visit, www.k2promos.com, www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.gggboxing.com, www.eottm.com, www.thegarden.com, www.hboboxing.com.




FAN FAVORITE DIEGO DE LA HOYA HEADLINES SEPTEMBER 4 MAIN EVENT AS THE POPULAR SERIES LA FIGHT CLUB JUMPS TO FRIDAY NIGHTS

LOS ANGELES (August 12) – A great new way to kick off the weekend, fans will now be able to catch the hottest fights at LA FIGHT CLUB in downtown Los Angeles on a new night of the week. Beginning September 4, the popular series will take place the first Friday of every month with the next installment featuring rising star Diego De La Hoya (11-0, 7 KOs) of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico who will make his return to LA FIGHT CLUB. De La Hoya will fightin a 10-round featherweight bout against an opponent to be determined. Fans outside of the Los Angeles area can get in on all the action, as the popular series will now broadcast live nationally on Estrella TV at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Also on the card, two-time Brazilian Olympian Everton Lopes (3-0, 1 KO) will make his second appearance in an exciting eight-round lightweight co-main event. Boasting an impressive local card hailing from Los Angeles, fan favorite Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (10-0, 9 KOs) will defend his undefeated record in a televised six-round super featherweight bout and Jesus Delgado (6-0-1, 2 KOs) and Rafael “El Alikin” Gramajo (4-1-1, 2 KOs) will be featured in separate six-round super featherweight and super bantamweight bouts, respectively. Opponents will be announced shortly.

The September 4 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB featuring Diego De La Hoya is a 10-round featherweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV broadcast will air live on Friday, September 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Ticket prices starting at $20 go on sale today, August 12 at 12:00 p.m. PT and will be available for purchase online at www.goldenboypromotions.comor by visiting the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page. For ticket information, email us at LAFightClub@goldenboypromotions.com.

The “Knockout Experience VIP Package” is also available for an additional $25 upgrade and includes VIP entrance, access to an exclusive lounge offering food and beverages for purchase; a meet and greet opportunity with fighters and celebrities attending the event, past guests have included Oscar De La Hoya, Kate Del Castillo, Mario Lopez, George Lopez, Lucas Matthysse, Randy Caballero and other starts have all made appearances in the past; an automatic entry into the LA FIGHT CLUB grand prize drawing, which can include but is not limited to: autograph gloves, picture in the ring, backstage access, tour of locker rooms, fighter ring walk, tickets to upcoming boxing events and additional merchandise and prizes.

Diego De La Hoya has thrilled fans with his impressive boxing skills since making his professional debut in 2013. Fighting with power, the Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico native has stayed busy in 2015 with an impressive victory over title contender Manuel Roman at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in February, defeating Ramiro Robles in his first appearance at LA FIGHT CLUB in May and a quick follow up victory against Jose Estrella on the July 2 installment. De La Hoya will make his highly-anticipated return to the Belasco Theater for a third time on September 4 to defend his undefeated record.

A two-time Olympian for his home country of Brazil, Everton Lopes won 240 bouts as an amateur, earning gold at the 2013 Pan American Games as well. On Feb. 27, the talented 26-year-old southpaw made his professional debut in a super lightweight bout against Evan Woolsey winning by unanimous decision. He shined at his debut at LA FIGHT CLUB defeating Robert Alexander Seyam on April 2 and triumphed over Marcelo Ezequiel Mesa in his first professional bout in his home country of Brazil on June 6. On September 4, Lopes will make his second appearance at LA FIGHT CLUB, eager to clench another win.

One of the most exciting prospects in the sport, 19-year-old super featherweight Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez has thrilled fans by winning his first nine professional bouts by knockout, seven in the first round. A sixth-round stoppage of Julio Sarinana at the inaugural LA FIGHT CLUB forced him to rise from the canvas for the first time to win on March 6, and the fan favorite continued to dominate defeating Darryl Hayes by unanimous decision at the June edition. Now, Gonzalez is ready to please his fans in his third appearance in the Los Angeles series.

Jesus Delgado made a stand-out appearance at premiere event of LA FIGHT CLUB on March 6, dominating Rocco Espinozain all four-rounds, releasing relentless powerful punches to win the bout by unanimous decision. Since his professional debut in January 2014, Delgado has stayed local, building up his name and reputation on the Southern California boxing circuit most recently defeating Benjamin Vinson by technical knockout in the third round on the May 7 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB, and a win by unanimous decision against Angel Albelo at the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena on July 11.

Born in Garden City, Kansas, and raised in Los Angeles, Rafael “El Alikin” Gramajo started boxing at the age of 11 in the same gym that saw the likes of Brandon Rios and Victor Ortiz. After an ambitious amateur career where he participated in around 100 fights, Gramajo decided to take his career to the next level, making his professional debut against Jimmy Small in April 2012. In 2014, Gramajo moved to Los Angeles to train out of the famed Westside boxing Club under the Saucedo Brothers. Boasting two impressive wins at Fantasy Springs in 2015, Gramajo made his LA FIGHT CLUB debut on June 4 with an impressive win over Pablo Cupul. Gramajo will return to the Belasco Theater looking to impress the crowd once again as making his second appearance at the popular series.

LA FIGHT CLUB is a monthly boxing series featured on the first Friday of each month, with upcoming shows on Sept. 18 (special edition event), Oct. 2, Nov. 6, and Dec. 4. The series showcases the brightest stars in the sport and present these exciting matchups in a nightclub atmosphere with an original setup. The boxing ring is set on the main floor of the Belasco Theater with on-camera standing room for fans in front of the ring similar to a concert pit, as well as reserved balcony and floor seats. Los Angeles’ own DJ Ray of Big Boy’s Neighborhood spins music during the fights and fans are able to dance and mingle with the fighters when the venue converts into a night club, in a VIP experience not matched by any promoter in the industry.

Media interested in attending the September 4 installment of LA FIGHT CLUB must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications will be available on Monday, August 17. Completed credential applications should be sent to credentials@mercuryllc.com by 5:00 p.m. PT on Thursday, August 27. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

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




LENNOX SET FOR COMEBACK THIS SATURDAY NIGHT AGAINST DAN PASCIOLLA AT THE PLAYGROUND IN ATLANTIC CITY

Atlantic City, NJ (August 12, 2015)–John Lennox made a call in February to his long time manager and good friend Rich Masini. The call was relatively long.

The contents of the call were passionate on both sides because the two guys who have had the same goal and same mission for years, Win a title! The manager and the fighter each laid out their case, but the crux of this call was between two great friends who have a great respect for each other and they both agreed to do their part in the quest of the goal.

That quest begins this Saturday night when Lennox (13-2, 5 KO’s takes on Dan Pasciolla (3-1) in a 6-round Heavyweight bout at The Playground in Atlantic City.

Shortly thereafter, John walked into the gym and met with his longtime trainer Charles Thomas and Masini.

John was weighing 249 pounds and a long way from his ideal fighting weight.

“I took time off. I got married and had a child plus I work in Manhattan as a Lost Prevention Manager at Barneys. Things are going well now.”

What transpired over the next six months was the epitome of hard work and dedication with one vision of which will come to fruition on Saturday night night in Atlantic City.

Lennox will enter the ring after a 22 month layoff, when he takes on the formidable Pacsiolla.

“I knew what my problems were and now it’s time to get back to boxing. I want something out of boxing.”

Lennox is an accomplished professional and is ready to go after the long layoff.

Masini has gone on record stating that John is in great shape and we have had great southpaw sparring. On August 15 in Atlantic City, it will be John’s night to prove he is back.

“I know Pasciolla is a tall southpaw but that should not be a problem I am working to put on a good show.”

“I love this kid and when he is in the ring, I am with him,” said Masini. “I have the utmost respect for John and we expect a great night against a solid opponent. We expect John to have a large support group to be in the crowd rooting him on.

John has had great trainers over the years, including long time and first time trainer Charles Thomas. John has also trained under Buddy McGirt. Because of other obligations, Buddy will not be able to be here with us on fight night but he is expected to be in John’s corner in upcoming fights.

Masini gushes over Thomas great work with Lennox. Thomas and Lennox have a long bond which gives Lennox a great comfort level .

“I want to thank my manager and trainer for still believing in me. I do this for them as much as I do this for me. I am taking this very serious as I am planning to drop down to

In the 10-round Heavyweight main event, Chazz Witherspoon (33-3, 25 KO’s) takes on Nicholas Guivas (11-2-2, 9 KO’s)

In 6-round bouts:

Keenan Smith (7-0, 2 KO’s) of Philadelphia, PA will fight Lavelle Hadley (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Youngstown, OH.

Anthony Young (10-1, 5 KO’s) of Atlantic City, NJ will take Jonathan Garcia (4-14, 1 KO) in a Welterweight bout.

Wang Zhimin (3-0, 1 KO) of China will fight Rashad Bogar (4-5-1, 2 KO’s) of Newark, NJ in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Zhang Zhilei (4-0, 2 KO’s) of Las Vegas, NV will battle Dennis Benson (2-6-1, 1 KO) of Norfolk, VA in a Heavyweight bout.

In 4-round bouts:

Scott Kelleher of Philadelphia will make his pro debut against Xzavier Ford (0-1) of Concord, NC in a Jr. Welterweight bout.

Jerome Conquest (2-1) of Philadelphia will battle pro debuting David Perez of Pittsburgh, PA Lightweight bout.

Parris Chisholm (2-0, 1 KO) of Washington, DC will fight Ronnie Jordan (1-5-1) of Cincinatti, Ohio in a Welterweight fight.

Dustin Fleischer (3-0, 3 KO’s) of Monmouth County, NJ will see action in a Welterweight bout against David Ratliff (0-1) of North Carolina.

Kashif Mohamed (0-1) of New York, NY will box Samuel Ellsworth (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Farmersville, LA in a Middleweight bout.

Eric Kitt (5-1, 2 KO’s) of Pensacola, FL will take on Gilbert Alex Sanchez (5-6-1, 2 KO’s) of Camden, NJ in a Middleweight bout.

The playground is a brand-new, state of the art entertainment complex where the shops at the Pier used to be. The facility is 500,000 square feet. The Playground is located at One Atlantic Ocean, Atlantic City, NJ 08401

Tickets for this great night of boxing will range from $75, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com

Doors open at 6:30 PM with 1st bell at 8 PM




WSOF 23 Main Card Finalized with Two New Bouts

LAS VEGAS (August 12, 2015) – World Series of Fighting (WSOF.com) has finalized the live NBCSN televised portion of its highly anticipated, “WSOF 23: Gaethje vs. Palomino II” world championship doubleheader at Comerica Theatre in Phoenix, Ariz. on Friday, Sept. 18, with the addition of two new bouts – a bantamweight (135 pounds) battle between ferocious rising star Timur “Lucky” Valiev and seasoned puncher Tito Jones, and a lightweight (155 pounds) tilt between dangerous finisher Brian Foster and undefeated LaRue Burley.

“We are looking forward to another incredible night of action, now that the main card for WSOF 23 is complete with five bouts featuring an exciting mix of championship fights and matchups filled with accomplished veterans and some of the world’s best prospects,” said World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo.

Fighting out of the famed Jackson-Winklejohn camp in Albuquerque, N.M., the 25-year-old Valiev (9-1) of Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia has been on fire in the cage, winning 9 straight fights since his second professional start in July 2011.

Valiev’s run includes three victories in the World Series of Fighting decagon cage. In his last effort at WSOF 19 on March 28, Valiev decimated Ed West, scoring a first round (1:39) TKO on West with an impressive combination of elbow strikes and punches.

Jones (11-7), a native of Panama City, Fla., now fighting out of Phoenix, is a two-time regional Golden Gloves boxing champion and former protégé of boxing trainer Roy Jones, Sr. The 34-year-old has never been knocked out over the course of a 9-year professional career that has spanned 18 bouts.

Foster (22-7) of Sallisaw, Okla. is a 31-year-old, battle-tested grappling expert who has notched 20 of his 22 career victories by way of (T)KO or submission, and who has defeated a collection of name rivals, including the current number 6-ranked welterweight in the world, Matt Brown, whom Foster forced to tap out from a guillotine choke in the second round (2:11) of their matchup on Nov. 20, 2010.

Foster will look to rebound from a defeat at the hands of superstar Jake Shields on Jan. 17 when the two faced off in the main event of WSOF 17 in Las Vegas. The result halted a 4-fight win streak that Foster had ignited on July 27, 2013, when he scored a stunning second round (:43) KO on James Wood with a spinning back kick.

Also 31 years of age, Burley (6-0) of Phoenix, has yet to be beaten over the course of six professional starts and two amateur bouts, a run that includes six wins by either (T)KO or submission.

Burley has earned six victories during a professional run that began with a unanimous decision win over Kelly Osser on Sept. 15, 2012, and also includes a third round (3:40) TKO (punches) over 2011 NCAA Division I National Wrestling Champion and fellow rising star Bubba Jenkins.

In the main event of WSOF 23, undefeated, reigning World Series of Fighting Lightweight (155 pounds) Champion Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje (14-0) will collide for the second time with hard-hitting rival Luis “Baboon” Palomino (23-10).

The first matchup between Gaethje and Palomino, which headlined WSOF 19, was a barnburner affair that Gaethje won via third round (3:57) TKO (leg kicks and punches), and that has already been touted as a “Fight of the Year” candidate.

In the co-main event and inaugural World Series of Fighting light heavyweight (205 pounds) championship bout, David Branch (16-3), the promotion’s reigning world middleweight (185 pounds) champion, will attempt to become the first two-division kingpin in World Series of Fighting history, when he faces off with Cinderella story Teddy Holder (9-1), whose nine career wins have all come by way (T)KO or submission.

In a featured, 160-pound catchweight fight, rising star and costumed crime fighter Phoenix Jones (5-1-1) will look to return to the win column after suffering the first professional loss of his career during his World Series of Fighting debut in April, when he takes on professional boxer turned MMA upstart Roberto Yong (2-2).

Priced from just $39.99, tickets for “WSOF 23: Gaethje vs. Palomino II” are on sale at the Comerica Theatre box office and online at WSOF.com and Ticketmaster.com.

The live NBCSN telecast begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Doors at Comerica Theatre will open at 3 p.m. MT and the first preliminary bout will begin at 3:45 p.m. A complete preliminary bout card will be announced soon.

About World Series of Fighting (WSOF)

“World Series of Fighting” (WSOF.com) is a world wide premier professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight promotion dedicated to delivering the best action-packed fights for fight fans by producing the best possible match-ups between elite fighters from around the world. For more information please visit WSOF.com. Follow “World Series of Fighting” on Twitter @MMAWorldSeries and “World Series of Fighting” President Ray Sefo @SugarRaySefo.

ABOUT NBCSN

NBCSN, part of the NBC Sports Group, is dedicated to serving passionate sports fans. Now in more than 85 million homes, the Emmy Award-winning network is the cable television home of the Summer and Winter Olympics, National Hockey League (NHL) – including two games of the Stanley Cup Final — NASCAR, Premier League, Formula One, IndyCar, Tour de France, and America’s Cup. In addition, NBCSN features college football, college basketball, college hockey, cycling, outdoor programming, horse racing surrounding the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup, Ironman, the Dew Tour and USA Sevens Rugby. The network is also home to original programs such as NFL Turning Point, Pro Football Talk, The Dan Patrick Show, and NASCAR America. NBCSN is distributed via cable systems and satellite operators throughout the United States.




BELLATOR MMA INKS JOSH THOMSON TO AN EXCLUSIVE, MULTI-FIGHT CONTRACT

SANTA MONICA (August 11, 2015) – Bellator MMA is proud to announce the signing of Josh “The Punk” Thomson (20-8, 1 NC) to an exclusive multi-year, multi-fight contract. At 36-years-young, the former Strikeforce Lightweight World Champion remains one of the top 155-pounders in the sport, having competed in top organizations including UFC and Pride.

Residing in San Jose, Calif. and training at the renowned American Kickboxing Academy alongside some of the sports very best, Thomson earned his Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt under Dave Camarillo. In addition to his formidable ground game, Thomson’s striking pedigree is on-point as well, earning a “Knockout of the Night” award for his output in his fight against Nate Diaz in 2013. It’s also worth being said that “The Punk” holds a record of 3-0 in professional kickboxing.

“I had the pleasure of working with Josh in Strikeforce and I look forward to continuing this relationship in Bellator MMA. Josh is a world-class mixed martial artist and we are very happy to be adding him to our roster of some of the best lightweights in the world,” said the promotion’s president, Scott Coker. “Bellator remains fully committed to building its roster by signing top free agents like Thomson, as well as grooming up-and-coming blue-chip stars. We have some amazing matchups in mind for “The Punk” that we hope to be announcing in the weeks to come.”

“I’m over here reading this UFC reporter saying that they’ve declined to re-sign me when the truth of the matter is that they’ve been trying to re-sign me for my last two fights. I declined and instead chose to fight out my contract and test the free agency market with Bellator. At that point, Bellator made me an offer that the UFC was unable to match given their relationships with FOX and Reebok. It’s a done deal, I’m back working with Coker, and I couldn’t be more excited to get back to an organization that is trending upwards with fighter-friendly contracts. Any intelligent fighter is going to go where the money is, and for me the money was at Bellator.”

“The Punk” joins a prominent list of athletes that have recently signed with Bellator over the past year including: Phil Davis, Josh Koscheck, Melvin Guillard, Ed Ruth, Aaron Pico, Lorenzo Hood, Ewerton Teixeira, Gleristone Santos, amongst others.

He will continue to fight in the lightweight division which is deep starting with: kingpin Will Brooks, down to other fighters like Michael Chandler, Marcin Held, Dave Rickels, Patricky “Pitbull” Freire and Dave Jansen.

About Bellator MMA
Bellator MMA is a leading Mixed Martial Arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, Bellator is available to nearly 500 million homes worldwide in over 140 countries. In the United States, Bellator can be seen on Spike TV, the MMA television leader. Bellator MMA is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations. Bellator is based in Santa Monica, California and owned by entertainment giant Viacom, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

About Spike:
Spike is available in 98.7 million homes and is a division of Viacom Media Networks. A unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), Viacom Media Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike’s Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike’s press site at http://www.spike.com/press. Follow us on Twitter @spiketvpr for the latest in breaking news updates, behind-the-scenes information and photos.




Heavyweight Travis Kauffman return after 19-month layoff this Friday night against Richard Carmack in Newark, New Jersey

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Reading, PA (August 11, 2015)–This Friday night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, Heavyweight contender Travis Kauffman (28-1, 20 KO’s) will be back in action for the first time in 19 months when he takes on Richard Carmack in a bout scheduled for 8-rounds.

The bout will take place on a card that is headlined by former world champions Antonio Tarver and Steve Cunningham.

The card will be televised by Spike TV, although Kauffman’s bout is not scheduled to make air as of this time.

Kauffman of Reading, PA has been out of action due to knee surgery to repair a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL).

Kauffman has been rehabbing very hard for the better part of 2015 as he started his journey in Houston, Texas and continued his boxing training in Reading and Philadelphia.

“I am feeling good and honestly I am a little anxious,” said Kauffman. “I am more excited for this fight on Friday then any of my previous bouts. I have been training real hard. My knee feels good. I have the usual soreness that comes with training but nothing major.”

In facing Carmack, Kauffman will be facing a man who has a record of 13-6 and weighs in excess of 300 pounds.

“From what I have seen of Carmack, he can fight. Don’t be deceived by his appearance. He can fight. I have worked real hard and this is my first full training camp with Naazim Richardson and my father Marshall Kauffman. Naazim is the best when it comes to breaking down opponents so I know I will be fully prepared for Carmack.”

Before the injury, Kauffman was ranked in the top-five by the WBA and he believes it wont be long before he rises back up to that lofty status.

“I am hoping for one more tune up. Possibly on September 18 in Atlantic City. I am back with Al Haymon so whatever he has lined up for me. I know he will get me the fights that will put me in position for the fights that I need to get me back into the top-five. Fights with Chris Arreola and Artur Szpilka could be those ind of fights.”

Kauffman is excited to be back with Haymon and to compete on PBC cards.

“I know he will get me where I need to be. That is why i re-signed with him. He believes in me. I am excited and am looking forward for what my future holds.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced
at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office.




PREMIER BOXING CHAMPIONS ON SPIKE MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

NORTH BERGEN, N.J. (August 11, 2015) – Fighters participating on Friday’s Premier Boxing Champions on Spike event held a media workout Tuesday at Global Gym in North Bergen, N.J. before their August 14 fights at Prudential Center in Newark.

Friday’s main event pits Antonio “Magic Man” Tarver (31-6, 22 KOs) against Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham (28-7, 13 KOs) in a 12-round heavyweight bout with televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Also featured on Spike is cruiserweight world champion Marco “Captain” Huck (38-2-1, 26 KOs) defending his title against Polish contender Krzyzstof Glowacki (24-0, 15 KOs) and Polish heavyweight Artur Szpilka (19-1, 14 KOs) taking on Cuba’s Yasmany Consuegra (17-1, 14 KOs).

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Huck Sports Promotion are priced at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office.

Here is what the participants had to say Tuesday, plus quotes from Tarver, who was unable to attend the workouts:

ANTONIO TARVER

“I’ve done enough talking. Now, we are only three days from the fight.

“We both signed a contract to inflict bodily harm on each other for 12 or less rounds. When the smoke clears, we’ll see who’s left standing.”

STEVE CUNNINGHAM

“I did the cruiserweight thing, I was the top of the food chain. I want to do it somewhere else. Heavyweight is the next challenge.

“This is a big challenge. Tarver has made history. That’s the kind of challenge I like. Heavyweight is a bigger challenge than cruiserweight. These guys are supposed to be bigger and stronger than me. I’m very competitive and that pushes me during training. The challenges keep me going.

“It’s great to be fighting again at Prudential Center. This is familiar territory for me. I’m trying to pick up another win. It’s right up the street from us and we’re looking to drive home happy Saturday.

“I fought in Europe so much, fighting this close to home is a little scary. There are a lot of eyes on you. But that’s what we do. We handle pressure and do what we do. If a fighter doesn’t have nerves they’re either lying or don’t have it in them.

“I just have to keep putting in work. I’ve had lot’s of close fights, everyone knows how it’s gone down and I’m good with it.

“I think I’m ready for a title right now, but it’s up to the media and fans. We’ll see how the performance goes. If you see a good performance and you demand it, I’m ready.”

MARCO HUCK

“I don’t really concern myself with my opponents. My only worry is if he is a southpaw or orthodox. A lot of people say they’re in they’re in the best shape of their lives, but they all come crashing down.

“The only thing I need to know is that I am going to beat him come Friday night. I want my opponents to adjust to me because I am the world champion.

“I take all of my opponents seriously. It is disrespectful not to and he’s very well-ranked.

“Training in Las Vegas was tough at first. Obviously coming over from Europe, we’re not used to the heat. I even doubted if this was the right decision but looking at it now it was the perfect decision. We’re in great shape and we adjusted well to the temperature.

“When I eventually go back up to heavyweight I want to fight the top guys right away. Maybe I’ll go fight Deontay Wilder, that is definitely an interesting option.

“All our focus is on Friday night and our victory.”

KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI

“Huck is of course the favorite because he’s a world champion. After I beat him, I will be a favorite too.

“People are afraid of Huck’s power but I’m not. What I want is a hard fought battle and winning by knockout in final round. This is my dream and I will make it happen.”

ARTUR SZPILKA

“My trainer Ronnie Shields is exactly right saying that I’m here to knock Consuegra out. This is what I will do on Friday.

“I worked hard in Houston during training camp. I have the energy to fight 15 rounds if necessary. My speed and not wasting any of my punches will be the difference.”

KAMIL LASZCZYK

“It’s a big deal for me to fight in Prudential Center. I started my US career here in 2011 and now fighting in Newark means a lot to me.

“I would like to show everybody how good I am offensively. A little more time and I will be able to challenge for a world title.”

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.com, www.PruCenter.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AntonioTarver, @USSCunningham, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @PruCenter, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.Facebook.com/PruCenterand www.Facebook.com/Spike.




GLOBAL PROVING GROUND APPOINTS VETERAN SPORTS ATTORNEY TO MATCHMAKER POSITION

PHILADELPHIA, PA. (August 11, 2015) –Global Proving Ground (GPG) announced today that it has appointed seasoned matchmaker and sports entertainment attorney Greg Bloom to the role of matchmaker for the fast-growing Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) franchise.

“I am excited to join the rapidly growing Global Proving Ground organization and its team that has been dedicated to promoting some of the most exciting professional MMA action in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of The U.S.,” said Bloom, who brings over a decade of combat sports industry experience with him to the promotion.

During his career, Bloom, a partner in the Miami-based firm Chase Lawyers, has provided legal counsel to several notable fighters including The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights contestants Brendan Schaub and Justin Wren, former WBA World Lightweight Champion Richar Abril and Olympic boxer turned WBO world title contender Zahir Raheem.

“We are thrilled to welcome such a highly-respected and experienced professional in the fight world like Greg to our team, and are confident that he will be able to strengthen our roster and fight cards with some of the top up-and-coming talent in the region and beyond,” said Global Proving Ground Founder and President James J. Jefferson.

After producing 15 live, professional MMA events around the world including the UK, Arkansas, Portugal, Missouri, Latvia and Virginia, Global Proving Ground has found a home in the Philadelphia area. To date, Global Proving Ground has rolled out 6 events in South Jersey at its own combat sports arena.

Global Proving Ground has played host several notable as well as up and coming competitors, including Sam “Sammy O” Oropeza, Alexander Keshtov, Peter Petties, Sydney “Da Gun” Outlaw, Sean “Shorty Rock” Santella and Matt “Razor Sharp” Rizzo.

The promotion is slated to stage three events this fall. The fight card for the first event, which will take place on Saturday, Oct. 24, will be announced soon.

Global Proving Ground’s last event, “GPG 21: Rizzo vs. Santella,” which was headlined by rival, rising flyweight (125 pounds) stars Matt “Razor Sharp” Rizzo and Sean “Shorty Rock” Santella on Saturday, July 25, is airing throughout this month, in syndication on Comcast SportsNet regional networks. The complete event is also available for viewing online, on GFL.tv.

About Global Proving Ground (GPG)
Global Proving Ground is a New Jersey-based professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports franchise that was designed to unearth and build new fight talent in the North Eastern and Mid-Atlantic regions of The United States and to provide an exciting entertainment experience for combat sports fans.

Launched in 2012 by marketing executive James J. Jefferson along with several, original pioneers of MMA, the company operates its own combat sports venue where it hosts all of its events that are distributed live on Real TV as well as PPV on Go Fight Live (GFL.tv) with its syndication deal on a tape delayed basis on Comcast SportsNet and the Comcast Network GPG is not only creating new fighter talent but is developing its own loyal fan base.




Bellator set for well-Warren-ted return to the Lone Star State

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (August 11, 2015) – Joe Warren’s (12-4) road to reclaim the Bellator MMA Bantamweight Championship will begin on Friday, September 25 against L.C. Davis, (23-6) when the two meet at the promotion’s debut at State Farm Arena in Hidalgo, Texas.

In addition, Joey Beltran (16-11, 1 NC) will face Kendall Grove (21-15, 1 NC) in an explosive middleweight encounter.

The contests serve as the headlining and co-headlining bouts of “Bellator 143: Warren vs. Davis,” which airs live on Spike at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, while preliminary bouts will stream on Spike.com at 7 p.m. ET.

Tickets for Bellator 143, which start at just $20, go on sale this Friday, August 14 at Ticketmaster.com and the State Farm Arena box office, with a special Bellator Nation presale available on the 12th and 13th for fans using the code: Bellator. Doors for the event open at 5:00 p.m. CT local time, and the first contest takes place shortly after. Additional bouts will be announced shortly.

“Mixed martial arts has a rich history in the state of Texas and Bellator looks forward to returning to the Lone Star State for the first time since 2012 with a stacked card in tow,” Bellator MMA President Scott Coker said. “Joe Warren has been itching to get back in action and return to the 135-pound title chase, while L.C. Davis has momentum on his side since his ‘Fight of the Year’ caliber matchup against Hideo Tokoro in March. I’m truly looking forward to it.”
Warren is a two-division champion who also served as a coach during the inaugural season of “Fight Master.” In addition to his win over the current bantamweight champion Marcos Galvao, the Olympic-caliber wrestler has defeated an impressive list of fighters including Georgi Karakhanyan, Patricio Freire, and Eduardo Dantas since taking up the sport of mixed martial arts in 2009.

Davis was one half of arguably the best MMA contest thus far in 2015 when he faced Hideo Tokoro at “Bellator 135: “Warren vs. Galvao 2.” The former World Extreme Cagefighting and Affliction standout has nearly double the amount of fight experience than “The Baddest Man on the Planet” boasts, and has emerged victorious in seven of his last eight professional contests.

It’s safe to assume that whoever emerges the winner on September 25th will have plenty to say about whether their next bout should come with championship gold on the line.

Since entering the Bellator MMA fray in 2013, Beltran has competed against some of the best light heavyweights the promotion has to offer, with matchups against Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Vladimir “The Janitor” Matyushenko, Emanuel “The Hardcore Kid” Newton. After transitioning to middleweight at “Bellator 136: Brooks vs. Jansen” in April, “Mexicutioner” emerged victorious from an enthralling encounter against Brian “The Predator” Rogers with the majority decision.

The San Diego, Calif., native has finished 13 of his 16 victories as a professional and will look to extend his current winning streak when he returns to the Bellator MMA cage.
Competing professionally since 2003, Grove has been involved in some epic matchups, including his most recent effort against Brandon Halsey at “Bellator 137: Halsey vs. Grove” in May. At only 32-years-old, “Da Spyder” hopes that a win against another prolific striker like Beltran will serve him well in his pursuit of Bellator MMA gold.

Will the high-towering Hawaiian manage to submit Beltran for only the second time in his mixed martial arts run? If there is anyone capable of such a feat, it’s the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt accredited Grove.

About Bellator MMA
Bellator MMA is a leading Mixed Martial Arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, Bellator is available to nearly 500 million homes worldwide in over 140 countries. In the United States, Bellator can be seen on Spike, the MMA television leader. Bellator MMA is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations. Bellator is based in Santa Monica, California and owned by entertainment giant Viacom, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

About Spike:
Spike is available in 98.7 million homes and is a division of Viacom Media Networks. A unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), Viacom Media Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike’s Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike’s press site at http://www.spike.com/press. Follow us on Twitter @spiketvpr for the latest in breaking news updates, behind-the-scenes information and photos.




COSTUMED CRUSADER PHOENIX JONES SUITS UP TO FACE ROBERTO YONG AT “WSOF 23: GAETHJE VS. PALOMINO II”

LAS VEGAS (August 11, 2015) – World Series of Fighting (WSOF.com) rising star and costumed crime fighter Phoenix Jones (5-1-1) will return to the decagon cage to take on Roberto Yong (2-2) in a 160-pound catchweight contest on the live, NBCSN-televised main card of “WSOF 23: Gaethje vs. Palomino II” at Comerica Theatre in Phoenix, Ariz. on Friday, Sept. 18.

Headlined by a previously announced and much-anticipated rematch between undefeated, reigning World Series of Fighting World Lightweight (155 pounds) Champion Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje (14-0) and hard-hitting rival Luis “Baboon” Palomino (23-10), the star-studded event features a second title fight, the inaugural World Series of Fighting world light heavyweight (205 pounds) championship bout between David Branch (16-3) and Teddy Holder (11-7).

Priced from just $39.99, tickets for “WSOF 23: Gaethje vs. Palomino II” are on sale at the Comerica Theatre box office and online at WSOF.com and Ticketmaster.com.

The 27-year-old Jones of Seattle, Wash. has received national media attention for his heroic deeds as a volunteer crime fighter who patrols his local streets, clad in a full-body suit and mask, in an effort to assist others in distress and curb every day street crimes.

Jones made his World Series of Fighting debut on April 10, coming up short in a unanimous decision against Emmanuel Walo in a 175-pound catchweight contest. The upcoming bout will be contested at a weight closer to Jones’ natural fighting weight of 155 pounds.

Yong, of Glendale, Ariz. is a former professional boxer focused on establishing a career in MMA. The 31-year-old opened his professional MMA career with back-to-back KO victories.

Yong has since stumbled against longtime veteran Estevan Payan and prospect Joel Champion but, like Jones, will look to return to the win column by dropping below the welterweight (170 pounds) limit.

The live NBCSN telecast of “WSOF 23: Gaethje vs. Palomino II” begins at 7:00 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on Friday, September 18.

Doors at Comerica Theatre will open for “WSOF 23” at 3:00 p.m. MT and the first preliminary card bout will begin at 3:45 p.m.

Additional bouts for the event will be announced soon.

About “World Series of Fighting” (WSOF)
“World Series of Fighting” (WSOF.com) is a world wide premier professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight promotion dedicated to delivering the best action-packed fights for fight fans by producing the best possible match-ups between elite fighters from around the world. For more information please visit WSOF.com. Follow “World Series of Fighting” on Twitter @MMAWorldSeries and “World Series of Fighting” President Ray Sefo @SugarRaySefo.

ABOUT NBCSN
NBCSN, part of the NBC Sports Group, is dedicated to serving passionate sports fans. Now in more than 85 million homes, the Emmy Award-winning network is the cable television home of the Summer and Winter Olympics, National Hockey League (NHL) – including two games of the Stanley Cup Final — NASCAR, Premier League, Formula One, IndyCar, Tour de France, and America’s Cup. In addition, NBCSN features college football, college basketball, college hockey, cycling, outdoor programming, horse racing surrounding the Triple Crown and Breeders’ Cup, Ironman, the Dew Tour and USA Sevens Rugby. The network is also home to original programs such as NFL Turning Point, Pro Football Talk, The Dan Patrick Show, and NASCAR America. NBCSN is distributed via cable systems and satellite operators throughout the United States.




Puerto Rican Boxing Classic Set for Friday, Oct. 2, at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA—The first annual Puerto Rican Boxing Classic, scheduled for Friday, Oct. 2, at the 2300 Arena, will serve not only as a prelude to Philadelphia’s annual Puerto Rican Day Parade on Oct.4, but also as a tribute to all great Puerto Rican fighters, past and present.

It is fitting to do this in Philadelphia since the city boasts the third-largest population of Puerto Ricans in the United States.

The seven-bout fight card figures to attract a sold-out crowd.

From bantamweight Sixto Escobar, who became the first Puerto Rican world champion in 1935, to current title-holder Danny Garcia, of Philadelphia, Puerto Ricans have had a long and storied history in boxing.

Among those area fighters looking to display their talents on the Oct. 2 card are local Puerto Rican fighters from Philadelphia and New Jersey. Many of them bring a loyal following to their fights.

Already committed to the show are lightweight Victor Vasquez (19-9-1, 9 K0s) and junior welterweight David Gonzales (5-0-2, 1K0), both of Philadelphia. Also set is junior middleweight Ismael “Tito” Garcia (8-0-1, 4 K0s), of Vineland, NJ.

In addition, invitations to attend and sign autographs will be sent to outstanding Puerto Rican fighters up and down the East Coast.

First fight is 7 pm.

About Oct. 2

The first annual Puerto Rican Boxing Classic, featuring seven bouts, begins at 7pm at the 2300 Arena at 2300 South Swanson Street in South Philadelphia. Doors open at 6 pm. The Oct. 2 event is being sponsored by, Parx Casino, DonQ Rum and Cricket Wireless. The card will be streamed live by www.gofightlive.tv and on a delayed basis by Comcast SportsNet. Tickets are $50 and $75 and can be purchased by calling Peltz Boxing (215-765-0922) and Wanamaker’s Tickets (215-568-2400). Tickets also can be purchased online at www.peltzboxing.com and www.wanatix.com. The Oct. 2 card is promoted by Peltz Boxing, Joe Hand Promotions and BAM Boxing.

About Oct. 4

The Puerto Rican Day Parade is the Crown Jewel of the Puerto Rican Festival every year in Philadelphia. It is a showcase of Puerto Rican and Latin culture. The Parade begins Sunday morning, Oct. 4, at the Eakins Oval in center city and continues throughout the day along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with music, concerts and vendors selling their wares. City officials expect more than 5,000 people to attend. The Parade, one of the first of its kind to be televised, will be aired on ABC-TV locally and on Univision nationally.

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TOP POLISH FIGHTERS KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI, ARTUR SZPILKA & KAMIL LASZCZYK MEDIA LUNCHEON QUOTES

NEW YORK (August 11, 2015) – Top Polish fighters Krzysztof Glowacki (24-0, 15 KOs), Artur Szpilka (19-1, 14 KOs) and Kamil Laszczyk (20-0, 8 KOs) held a media luncheon in Manhattan Monday to discuss their respective Friday, August 14 bouts at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Later in the day, the fighters hosted a fan meet and greet at the Amsterdam Alley Lounge in Linden, New Jersey where they signed autographs and chatted with fans before their upcoming Friday night bouts.

Glowacki will battle cruiserweight world champion Marco Huck (38-2-1, 26 KOs) in the Premier Boxing Champions on Spike co-featured event while Szpilka will take on Cuban heavyweight Yasmany Consuegra (17-1, 14 KOs) in the 10-round televised opener beginning at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Laszczyk takes on fellow unbeaten Oscauris Frias (16-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-round featherweight attraction. The main event of the night features a heavyweight showdown between Antonio “The Magic Man” Tarver (31-6, 22 KOs) and Steve “U.S.S.” Cunningham (28-7, 13 KOs).

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Warriors Boxing and Huck Sports Promotion are priced at $150, $100, $70 and $45, not including applicable service charges and are on sale now via Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office.

Here is what the participants had to say Monday:

KRZYSZTOF GLOWACKI

“I read that Marco Huck said he could bet all his money on defeating me, so I will say the same – I’m betting all my money that I will be a new world champion on August 14.

“This is how it looks in my head. Everything went perfectly. I came a here couple of weeks before the fight, no problems at all.

“I’m a very quiet man, but when I step into the ring, I’m a different man. I’m a beast with no fear at all.

“People are asking me if this fight will be between Huck’s raw power and my ring intelligence. I agree, but what else happens at Prudential Center, you will have to see for yourself.”

ARTUR SZPILKA

“I don’t pay attention to what Consuegra is saying about my skills. In the past, maybe I would explode with some expletives, but now I’m saving my energy for the ring for August 14.

“I know exactly what I will do to him. This is my coming out party for U.S. viewers and they will not be disappointed. I worked to hard in Houston to blow this opportunity.

“Don’t get me wrong – I appreciate Consuegra as a fighter, but I also know what I can do.”

KAMIL LASZCZYK

“I know that I’m fighting a tough fighter who has more knockouts than I have fights. I know that I’m ready to fight the best in the world.

“I will be doing my thing and I’m not going to get crazy in the ring and I will not give up my zero in the loss column. I had a great sparring sessions and great camp fighting with Olympians.

“After this fight, I plan to stay longer in the United States, maybe a year or two to get my experience for world championships fights.”

RONNIE SHIELDS, Szpilka’s Trainer

“Szpilka is ready. He’s in great shape and camp was really good. The most important thing – he’s confident.

“Consuegra had a good amateur career. But this is not the amateurs anymore. You get paid, this is when it all counts. He’s going to be in the ring with the beast, Artur Szpilka, who is going to knock his head off.

“This is the fact; this is what will happen in Prudential Center. Let’s see who will do the running when the fight starts. If he’s a man of his words, Consuegra will stand up and fight. It will be great for us and the fans.”

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For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.com, www.PruCenter.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @AntonioTarver, @USSCunningham, @Szpilka_Artur, @LouDiBella, @PruCenter, @SpikeTV and @SpikeSports and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxing, www.Facebook.com/PruCenterand www.Facebook.com/Spike.