Venice, CA (February 11, 2014) Boxing’s fastest rising superstar, Gennady “GGG” Golovkin was named the World Boxing Association’s Boxer of the Month for January 2014, the fourth time he’s received the honor.

Golovkin improved to 29-0 with 26 knockouts as he defended his WBA Middleweight World Title for the tenth time on February 1 with a dominant seventh round stoppage of durable Osumanu Adama in his return to Monte Carlo.

“I’m very grateful to the WBA for this honor and I look forward to continuing to defend my middleweight title in future bouts” said Golovkin.

Stated Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions’ “Gennady’s performances are truly the talk of the international boxing world over the last 18 months since he first fought in the United States and on HBO.”

“Not only has Gennady stopped the last sixteen challengers but he’s dominated the fights from the opening bell while providing excitement in the ring that makes every fight must-see TV,” continued Loeffler.

Golovkin was last named WBA’s Boxer of the Month when he stopped Curtis Stevens on November 2 at Madison Square Garden, a performance that garnered the year’s third highest rating for a televised boxing event.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Feb. 11th, 2014) — The man who once put Roy Jones Jr. to sleep and earned a reputation as boxing’s toughest “Road Warrior” will test his luck in another city far from his home in Jamaica.

Glen Johnson, the former International Boxing Federation (IBF) and The Ring world light heavyweight champion, will headline Classic Entertainment & Sports’ Feb. 21, 2014 card at Twin River Casino in Lincoln, R.I., when he faces veteran Jaime Velazquez of Pawtucket, R.I., in the 8-round main event of “Home Sweet Home.”

Velazquez (11-5-2, 6 KOs), 42, a former New England title contender in the mid- to late-1990s, will end a 15-year layoff in his long-awaited return to the ring Feb. 21st, and he’ll do it against one of the most prolific light heavyweights of this generation. Johnson (53-18-2, 36 KOs), 45, has been actively fighting for the past 25 years, a late-bloomer who didn’t turn pro until he was 20, but during that stretch he’s fought 11 world-title bouts and enjoyed an impressive run as the IBF and The Ring title-holder, which included his shocking knockout win over Roy Jones Jr. in 2004. Three months later, Johnson unified the light heavyweight title by beating Antonio Tarver and earned the Boxing Writer’s Association of America’s Fighter of the Year award.

Tickets for “Home Sweet Home” are available for $40, $100 and $126 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesboxing.com or www.twinriver.com or by phone at 401-724-2253/2254.

Nicknamed “The Road Warrior” for frequently fighting — and winning — in his opponents’ hometowns, Johnson’s resume also includes a knockout win over the hard-hitting Yusaf Mack of Philadelphia and an inclusion in the Super Six World Boxing Classic in which he dropped to 168 pounds to replace an injured Mikkel Kessler and knocked out Allan Green before losing a close majority decision to World Boxing Council (WBC) champ Carl Froch in the semifinals.

Like the loss to Froch, many of Johnson’s setbacks have either been too close to call or have fallen under a cloud of controversy, including a disputed draw against Clinton Woods for the then-vacant IBF title in 2003 in Woods’ backyard in the United Kingdom, which Johnson avenged later that year by beating Woods unanimously for the belt. He faced Woods a third time in 2006 in the same country for the same belt and lost a close split decision in which one judge awarded the fight to Johnson by two points.

Following the trilogy with Woods, Johnson went on to beat former world champion Montell Griffin by 11th-round knockout and faced off twice against WBC title-holder Chad Dawson, losing both fights by narrow unanimous decisions. Johnson also challenged for the IBF title a third time against Tavoris Cloud and took a shot at the IBF super middleweight belt against Lucian Bute, going the distance against both fighters. Johnson pushed Cloud to the brink for 12 rounds and lost a unanimous decision despite landing more punches than Cloud, according to the CompuBox numbers.

In addition to knocking out 36 of his 73 opponents, a staggering 49 percent knockout rate, Johnson has only been stopped once in 25 years, proving his chin is as solid as his fists. The lone stoppage occurred in 1997 in the first of his 11 world-title belts against then-IBF middleweight champ Bernard Hopkins, the ageless wonder who, at 49, now holds the same light heavyweight title Johnson defended twice during the peak of his dominance in 2004. Born in Jamaica, Johnson moved to southern Florida at the age of 15.

Velazquez is best known for a series of memorable bouts on the New England circuit in the ’90s, including a thriller against former world-title challenger Scott Pemberton and a six-round battle against Richard Grant, who later went on to face former super middleweight world champ Jeff Lacy. Velazquez also went the distance with former IBF contender Gabriel Hernandez and fought two draws against Holyoke, Mass., cruiserweight Darren Whitley.

“Home Sweet Home” also features the homecoming of Providence native Toka Kahn (9-0, 6 KOs), a highly-decorated amateur and now undefeated super featherweight prospect fighting under the promotional guidance of Bob Arum’s Top Rank Boxing. Kahn will fight in his hometown for the first time since 2012 in a six-round bout.

“The Vermont Bully” Kevin Cobbs (7-1, 2 KOs), now fighting out of Fall River, Mass., will end his year-long layoff in a four-round light heavyweight bout while Pawtucket, R.I., middleweight Thomas Falowo (10-2, 7 KOs) will return for the first time since his loss to Chris Chatman in July of 2012 in a separate six-round bout. The undercard also features the return of undefeated Providence middleweight K.J. Harrison-Lombardi (4-0-1), who will star in a four-round bout, and the Twin River debut of Louisiana cruiserweight Alvin Varmall (1-0, 1 KO), also fighting in a separate four-round bout. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

BOSTON (Feb. 10) – Boxing will experience the luck of the Irish when the popular Golden Boy Live! series fittingly heads to Boston for a one-of-a-kind St. Patrick’s Day celebratory night of fights on Monday, March 17. Golden Boy Promotions is teaming up with Murphy’s Boxing U.S.A. and Back East Promotions to bring boxing back to Beantown for a stellarfight card at the House of Blues that will air live on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes. In the welterweight main event scheduled for 10 rounds, local hero Danny O’Connor takes on Virginia’s Andrew Farmer and the co-feature will see one of Ireland’s favorite sons, Dublin’s Jamie Kavanagh face off against an opponent to be named in an eight-round lightweight bout.

The card will feature a host of New England’s top talent including undefeated heavyweight Alexis Santos in the six-round televised opening bout against an opponent to be determined, debuting 2012 Irish Olympic Silver Medalist John Joe Nevin, as well as Ryan Kielczewski, Billy Traft, Rashidi Ellis and others in non-televised action.

“I can’t imagine there can be a better place to have a boxing event on St. Patrick’s Day than in Boston,” said Richard Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions. “We’ve partnered with Ken Casey and his company and we’re going to bring the great boxing fans of this city the fights they want and deserve. On March 17, the only place to be in Boston is at the House of Blues.”

“There has been a huge resurgence of boxing in Boston and it’s exciting that a global promotional company like Golden Boy Promotions has taken notice and is coming to Boston to partner with us,” said Ken Casey, founder of Murphy’s Boxing U.S.A. and Back East Promotions, as well as a founding member of the legendary Irish punk band the Dropkick Murphys. “St. Patrick’s Day in Boston is the perfect way to kick off this new partnership and this will hopefully lead to bigger and better fights here in Boston, home to some of boxing’s most loyal fans.”

Southpaw Danny O’Connor (23-2, 7 KO’s) is one of New England’s most popular fighters and the 28-year-old is more amped up than ever to put on a show on St. Patrick’s Day for his fans. A professional since 2008, O’Connor has won nine of his last 10 bouts, with the only loss coming via a highly-controversial split decision defeat to former World Champion Vivian Harris last October. On March 17, O’Connor will look for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and live up to the St. Patrick’s Day hype in his hometown.

Front Royal, Virginia’s Andrew Farmer (17-2, 7 KO’s) has no problem traveling into O’Connor’s backyard and after winning 13 of his last 14 bouts, the 28-year-old has confidence that when the bell sounds, he’s got the goods to upset the hometown favorite.

Twenty-three-year-old Dublin native Jamie “The Nuisance” Kavanagh (15-1-1, 7 KO’s) returns to the ring since suffering the first loss of his career against Daniel Ruiz last December. Now, he’s excited to be back and making his Boston debut on St. Patrick’s Day, when his loyal fans will undoubtedly be out in force to cheer him on.

In the Golden Boy Live! televised opener, it’s a six-round heavyweight bout, with Lawrence, Massachusetts’ 24-year-old Alexis Santos (12-0, 10 KO’s) looking for his seventh first-round knockout when he meets up with an opponent to be determined.

In undercard action, Mullingar, Ireland’s John Joe Nevin, a 2012 Olympic silver medal winner for Ireland, makes his highly-anticipated pro debut in a four-round bantamweight bout against San Juan, Puerto Rico’s Alberto Candelaria (3-0-1, 2 KO’s).

A full lineup of Massachusetts’s natives will feature Quincy’s Ryan Kielczewski (18-0, 4 KO’s), who puts his unbeaten record on the line in his six-round junior lightweight meeting with an opponent to be named. Super middleweights collide in a four-round bout when Dorchester’s Billy Traft (3-0, 1 KO) faces Marion newcomer Mike Schneider. Somerville’s Rashidi Ellis (3-0, 2 KO’s) takes on Schenectady, New York’s Bryan Abraham (6-18, 6 KO’s). Also scheduled for four rounds in the welterweight division Stoneham’s Greg Vendetti (4-1-1, 2 KO’s) meets Akron’s Damon Antoine (11-52-2).

O’Connor vs. Farmer, a 10-round welterweight bout is presented by Golden Boy Promotions, Murphy’s Boxing U.S.A. and Back East Promotions and sponsored by Corona and O’Reilly Auto Parts. The House of Blues doors open at 5:00 p.m. ET and the first fight starts at 5:30 p.m. ET. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets, priced at $150 (reserved seating), $100 (reserved seating) and $40 (general admission) are available for purchase now at the House of Blues Box Office, the Orpheum Theater box office or online at http://m.concerts.livenation.com/event/01004C389CC1B5BE, www.murphysboxingusa.com or www.backeastpromotions.com.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.murphysboxingusa.com, follow on Twitter at www.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.twitter.com/murphysboxing, www.twitter.com/DOC_Boxing and www.twitter.com/HOBBoston, www.twitter.com/dropkickmurphys, www.twitter.com/kendkm, follow the conversation using #GoldenBoyLive, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page. Also, visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing. For more information on FOX Sports 1 visit FOXSports.com and become a follower on @FOXSports1 and @FOXDeportes.

Las Vegas, Nev. – EA SPORTS™ UFC® kicks off 2014 with the first look at the future of sports video games. EA SPORTS UFC Gameplay Series: Next-Gen Fighters is a new video that spotlights how EA SPORTS UFC will bring the next-generation of videogame athletes to life by recreating the real-world athleticism, physiology and emotion of world class fighters in ways never possible before. By leveraging the latest technology to capture and deliver the most true-to-life likeness and motion of each fighter, a new bar has been set. In the world of EA SPORTS UFC, Anthony Pettis has his swagger, Georges St-Pierre respects the opposition and Jon Jones really gets to be Jon Jones. Watch all these athletes come to life in EA SPORTS UFC Gameplay Series: Next-Gen Fighters now.

EA SPORTS UFC Gameplay Series is a collection of developer videos that go deep into the core features of EA SPORTS UFC with brand new gameplay details and all-new in-game footage. Be on the lookout for more videos in the coming weeks that explore dynamic striking, submission battles, living world, and much more.

EA SPORTS UFC is in development at EA Canada in Vancouver and will be available for the PlayStation® 4 computer entertainment system and Xbox One, the all-in-one games and entertainment system from Microsoft. The game has not yet been rated by the ESRB and PEGI; visit www.esrb.org and www.pegi.info for more information. Become a fan of EA SPORTS UFC on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/easportsufc and follow us on Twitter via http://www.twitter.com/easportsufc.

To download assets, please visit the EA press site at http://info.ea.com.

The next generation of MMA fighting begins spring of 2014 when the first EA SPORTS UFC game will be released for the Xbox One and the PS4. Pre-Order: http://www.easports.com/ufc/buy/US.

About EA Sports®
EA SPORTS is one of the leading sports entertainment brands in the world, with top-selling videogame franchises, award-winning interactive technology, fan programs and cross-platform digital experiences. EA SPORTS creates connected experiences that ignite the emotion of sports through industry-leading sports videogames, including Madden NFL football, EA SPORTS FIFA, NHL® hockey, NBA LIVE basketball, NCAA® Football, PGA TOUR® golf, SSX™ and EA SPORTS UFC. For more information about EA SPORTS, including news, video, blogs, forums and game apps, please visit www.easports.com.

About UFC®
Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Beijing, Singapore and Sao Paulo, the UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that have sold out some of the biggest arenas and stadiums across the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries to 800+ million TV households worldwide in 28 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S. which includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network annually, The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS™, a digital subscription service with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. UFC also owns over 100 UFC GYM® locations, UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT™ (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC 360 (the internationally distributed magazine), a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, best-selling DVDs and Blu-rays, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, Octagon™ branded apparel and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit www.UFC.com and follow UFC at www.Facebook.com/UFC and Twitter: @UFC.

Monday, February 10, 2014 Bobby Hitz announced that following February 28th’s “Fight Night at the Horseshoe,” which will be featured on ESPN2’s “Friday Night Fights,” Hitz Boxing will return to Elk Grove Village on Friday March 7, for “Horseshoe Presents: Hitz Boxing’s Fight Night at the Belvedere” and then return to Hammond for another “Fight Night at the Horseshoe” in mid April. On Friday, January 31, Hitz kicked off its 2014 campaign with an exciting fight card at a jam packed Belvedere Events & Banquets.

“We came out of the gates this year with guns a blazing. We are staging four fights in four months and we added two dynamic boxers to our already stacked stable,” said Hitz. “Our growing fan base, organizational capacity, talented roster of fighters, partners and growing list of sponsors puts us in a position to have a great year.”

Last week Hitz announced the signing St. Louis light heavyweight Ryan “The Irish Outlaw” Coyne (21-2, 9 KOs) as well as hot super middleweight prospect Donovan “Don Da Bomb” George (24-4-1, 21 KOs) of Chicago. The George deal was secured in partnership with Round 3 Productions.

The Horseshoe Casino, Mercedes of Naperville, BL Autogroup, Title Boxing, Miller Brewing and Power Hour Nutrition sponsored the January card.

“Our sponsorship inventory provides current and potential partners with excellent value at a competitive price,” said Hitz. “Additionally, our VIP hospitality packages, ringside seating and customized group packages are great for corporate outings.”

Hitz has partnered with Arthur Pelullo of Banner Promotions in bringing ESPN2′ “Friday Night Fights” to the Horseshoe later this month, and with Round 3 Productions’ Frank “Muggs” Mugnolo in the signing of George.

“Working with a longtime friend like Artie on the upcoming Horseshoe bout is awesome, he is old school like me and values relationships,” said Hitz. “Hitz Boxing has dominated the Chicago boxing scene since 1991 and our new relationship with Round 3 opens up some interesting and exciting opportunities.”

Tickets for the February 28 “Fight Night at the Horseshoe” card and the March 7, “Horseshoe Presents: Hitz Boxing’s Fight Night at the Belvedere” are available at hitzboxing.com.

London (10 February) James DeGale MBE is out to “send a statement” when he defends his WBC Silver super middleweight title against the undefeated Gevorg Khatchikian at the City Academy, Bristol, on March 1st, live on Channel 5.

The 2008 Beijing Olympic Gold Medallist, DeGale, feels that after his performance in Bristol, Badou Jack may not even want to face him in their WBC sanctioned final eliminator.

“You can really expect me to go in there and do the business – I can’t see this going the full 12 rounds – I’m looking to send a statement to Jack,” DeGale said.

“After this performance, I’m not too sure if he’s (Jack) going to want to fight me, but, he’s going to have to if he wants a chance at that world title.

“But, I’m taking it one fight at a time and I’m looking forward to this one on March 1st.”

James meets the Netherlands based Khatchikian ahead of his WBC sanctioned final eliminator against Mayweather Promoted Badou Jack.

With the Jack contest in the private negotiation period, DeGale headlines a packed show in Bristol against the former IBO Youth champion, Khatchikian, who successfully extended his record to 20-0 two weeks ago.

Also scheduled to fight on the March 1st show is Bristol’s own British bantamweight champion Lee Haskins, undefeated heavyweight sensation Hughie Lewis Fury and a whole host of talent, including local Bristol fighters Dan Sarkozi, Lee Nutland, Ashley Lane and Dane Kelly, along with Gloucester’s Wayne Ingram and Weston Super-Mare’s Liam Hunt in his professional debut.

Accreditation

For fight accreditation for March 1st please email: Leeb@hennessysports.com for an application form.

Applications need to be submitted on or before Friday 21st February 2014. You will be notified of your accreditation status by close of business (5.30pm) on Monday 24th February 2014 via Email.

Ticket Information

Tickets for March 1st are priced from £35 and are available to purchase from the following box office today:

Sanigar Events box office: 0117 949 66 99

FOLLOW US ON ON TWITTER @HENNESSYSPORTS
For more information on Channel 5, Maximuscle, Liquid and Hennessy Sports

LONDON (Feb. 10) – Boxing’s modern day ‘Cinderella Man’ Stuart Hall makes the first defence of his IBF bantamweight title in a North East derby against Martin Ward.

The diamond of Darlington steps back into the ring for the first time since his unforgettable crowning when he overcame Vusi Malinga in an enthralling 12-round, toe-to-toe clash, to win the IBF belt last December.

Hall’s subsequent rise from a party boy, who days were spent indulging in drink and drugs, to a world champion boxer who now has the world at his feet is something of a fairytale.

The 33-year-old will make his first defence at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle on March 29th, when he challenges County Durham’s Ward, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

It has only been little over six weeks when Hall was last in the ring but the bantamweight ace admits he can’t wait to get back in and use the momentum from his last fight to blast his way past Ward in front of an expectant North East crowd.

“My adrenaline has been pumping since becoming champion against Malinga and I just can’t wait to get back into the ring again,” Hall told BoxNation. “I fought so hard to win the world title and I’m going to defend it even harder. Ward’s a good fighter but he’s not been through what I went through to get this belt and there’s no way I’m giving it up. It’s a North East derby and not only is a world championship on the line but also pride.”

“We’ve never had anything like this in the past up here, where two local lads are fighting each other for a world title. It’s going to be an exciting night, there’s going to be drama but I’ll be walking out that ring with my belt – there’s no doubt about that,” Hall said confidently.

It is the memory and experience from his emphatic win over Malinga which Hall believes will see him through on the night.

That fight is regarded as one of the best domestic scraps in 2013 and the Darlington star is sure there will be many more similar nights just like it, starting with his next one.

“It was a great night [against Malinga] and one I will never forget – everything just clicked,” said Hall.

“Going into the fight there was some tension but I loosened up early on and just started going to work. It was my shot and I wasn’t going to let it go and at times I even surprised myself.

“I showed I had something, which you don’t truly know you’ve got until you get there, so I gritted my teeth, saw the fight through and made sure I finished strong. It was a really entertaining fight for the fans and I hope to be in many more fights like that and give the people what they want to see,” he said.

“I’m certain my fight with Ward will have that same buzz because we’re both hungry and the atmosphere will be electric on the night,” Hall said.

The IBF bantamweight world champion is also hoping to bring the biggest fights to the UK and has eyes on unifying the belts in the near future.

“I hope we can bring the biggest names across here for the British fans and put on some huge shows. But I’ll fight anyone and anywhere – it doesn’t matter to me. I want to take on the biggest names in the division and I’m sure there’s going to be some great fights for me down the road,” Hall stated.

“There are some great domestic fights to be made but there’s also a chance to unify the belts against the likes of Anselmo Moreno and Shinsuke Yamanaka – those would be some top fights,” he said.

Another British star who will have his chance at world title glory is Welshman Enzo Maccarinelli when he takes on Germany’s formidable Juergen Braehmer for the WBA light-heavyweight title.

At 33 years old, the clash taking place in Rostock, Germany on April 5th, and live and exclusive on BoxNation, represents a final chance for the former WBO cruiserweight titlist to capture the 175 pound world title.

Hall vs. Ward & Braehmer vs. Maccarinelli is live and exclusive on BoxNation (Sky Ch.437/Virgin Ch.546). Visit www.boxnation.com to subscribe.

-Ends-

About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated subscription boxing channel. For £10* a month and no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.

BoxNation is proud to support Fight for Peace, a charity that uses boxing and martial arts combined with education and personal development to realise the potential of young people in communities that suffer from crime and violence. Buy LUTA (www.luta.co.uk) clothing and support Fight for Peace.

Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Khan vs Diaz and Mayweather vs Alvarez.

The channel is available on Sky (Ch.437), Virgin (Ch.546), online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android. BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 449), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.

BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.

For more information visit www.boxnation.com

*Plus £10 one off registration fee for Sky TV and new Livesport.tv customers.

Weirton, WV (February 9, 2014) – Cruiserweight prospect Jean Pierre “Kid Creole” Augustin had a strong showing yesterday evening in his pro debut, dominating veteran Michael Davis over four rounds at the Serbian American Cultural Center in Weirton, WV.

Augustin, who hails from Lawrence, MA and is of Haitian heritage, was in control from bell to bell, landing hard shots while clearly dictating the pace. Augustin buzzed Davis in the first and fourth rounds, each time with straight lefts, but the game Ohioan finished the fight on his feet.

All three judges scored the bout 40-36 for Augustin, who is now 1-0.

“It was a great experience to get my first fight out of the way,” said the 26-year-old Agustin, who won the Pan American Game Qualifiers in 2011. “There were definitely a lot of emotions going through my mind in the fight and leading up to it since there was no more headgear and rounds were three minutes instead of two. Everybody in attendance said I fought well but I think there’s always room for improvement. I’m going to watch the film with my team and work on getting better the next time around.”

Augustin’s second pro bout is scheduled for February 20 at the Holiday Inn in Fogelsville, PA, with two more fights tentatively scheduled for March.

Fans can interact with Augustin on Twitter and Instagram at @_Kidcreole

Main Event: CageSport Featherweight Title
Drew Brokenshire def. Talon Hofman 4:16 RD3 Rear Naked Choke

Semi Main Event
Julian Erosa def. Mike Joy 2:28 RD2 TKO (punches)

Undercard
Katie Howard def. Miriam Cardoso UD (29-28)(29-28)(30-27)
Reagan Benedetti def. Cheryl Chan 2:32 RD2 Arm Triangle Choke
Paul Njoku def. Rob Cann SD (29-28)(29-28)(27-30)
Eduardo Torres def. Trevor Sojot 4:53 RD1 Triangle Choke
Chaz Jordan def. Zach Conn UD (29-28)(29-28)(30-27)
Kario Issac def. Arjay Murphy 5:00 RD2 TKO
Woo Johnson def. Rico Rough 0:30 RD1 TKO
Raven Guice def. Ricky Carrillo UD (29-27)(29-27)(29-28)

BOLTON (Feb. 8) – Rising star Haroon Khan got 2014 off to a great start after a dazzling points victory in his fourth professional bout.

The Bolton starlet had too much for his Yorkshire opponent, Francis Croes, on Friday night’s Sheffield bill, as he put on his best performance since turning professional last year.

From the get-go Khan dominated his 25-year-old foe, using his fast footwork and counter punching to offset his challenger’s come-forward style. As the fight progressed it was the super-flyweight Khan landing the more hurtful and telling blows pushing back the unrelenting Croes.

Croes proved to be a very game opponent but as the bout continued it was Khan who was becoming the aggressor in the fight as he wore down the Middlesbrough man, landing some beautiful combinations in the fourth and final round that stopped Croes in his tracks.

The 22-year-old’s hand speed was notable throughout the fight as he picked off the slower Croes the more the fight went on. In the end, though, it went to the scorecard with Khan winning a landslide victory 40-36.

It was a very mature display by Khan who showed the progress he continues to make under trainer Oliver Harrison, with the youngster delighted with his night’s work.

“It was a really good fight and I’m happy with how I did in there,” said Khan. “Croes was a tough opponent and he kept coming forward which forced me to use my boxing skills and counter him. The more the fight went on, though, I felt I was taking over and you could see that. It was my best performance since turning professional and I think that’s just a reflection of the work I’ve been doing with Oliver Harrison because I’ve been learning so much,” he said.

The 2010 Commonwealth Games bronze medalist is happy to get the year off to such an emphatic start and is out to make it one to remember.

“This is going to be a big year for me. I want to get my head down, keep learning in the gym and get as many fights under my belt as possible. The last year I’ve picked up so much since turning professional and I want to keep that up,” said Khan.

“I’m going to be very active in 2014 and I have no doubts that it’s going to be a great year for me because I’m eager to learn and improve and I know I have the right trainer and team around me to do that,” he said.

Trainer Oliver Harrison was also pleased with how his young prospect performed.

“Haroon did very well in there,” said Harrison. “I scored him an 8 out of 10 which is very good in my book because I don’t usually give such high ratings. I definitely think it was his best performance since he turned pro and I’m very happy with the progress he keeps on making in the gym. If he keeps learning he can go very far in the sport,” he said.

Khan is aiming to be out again soon with an announcement to be made in due course.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Feb. 8th, 2013) – AXS TV’s Inside MMA announced Friday that undefeated Melrose, Mass., heavyweight John Johnston will fight for the vacant CES MMA championship March 14th, 2014 at Twin River Casino against former Ultimate Fighting Championships veteran Josh Hendricks.

The 6-foot-4 Johnston (5-0, 5 KOs) is fresh off his fifth knockout win in as many tries after stopping William Baptiste just 1 minute, 49 seconds into the opening round of their scheduled three-round bout Jan. 24th courtesy of a vicious head kick that sent both fighters crashing to the canvas.

Training out of Sityodtong in Boston, Johnston has yet to fight past the second round, winning four of his five professional bouts by first-round knockout. Facing Hendricks (19-9, 5 KOs), a Mansfield, Ohio native, will be a major step up for Johnston. The first and only time he fought at Twin River, Hendricks submitted Josh Diekmann via triangle choke in the opening round of their heavyweight bout, one of Hendricks’ 12 career submission victories.

Between 2005 and 2007, Hendricks amassed an impressive streak in which he won 10 of 11 bouts with one no contest, earning him a spot on the UFC 91 card in November of 2008 in Las Vegas, where he lost to Gabriel Gonzaga.

The March 14th card will also feature the return of Bourne, Mass., welterweight Chuck O’Neil (12-6, 4 KOs); Providence lightweight Luis Felix (10-7, 3 KOs) and Boynton Beach, Fla., welterweight Charles Rosa (6-0, 2 KOs), a graduate of Providence’s Johnson & Wales University. For more information or to pre-order tickets, visit www.cesmma.com.

Milton Santiago Jr. 138.5 – Moses Molina 136.5
Anthony Flores 138.6 – Ramesis Gil 139.2
Sulton Statan 138 – Mike Eroza 137.5
Frank Trader 130.8 – Israel Suarez 128.5
Emanuel Folly 122 – Michael Varela 129.5
Derrick Webster 164.2 – Julio Garcia 169
Antonio DuBose TBA – Michael Haigood 125.5

Promoter: Greg Robinson’s Power Power Productions
Venue: National Guard Armory
1st Bell: 7:30 pm est

Chicago, IL, Friday, February 7, 2014–Bobby Hitz announced today that Hitz Boxing has signed light heavyweight Ryan “The Irish Outlaw” Coyne (21-2, 9 KOs) of St. Louis to a promotional contract.

“Adding Ryan to our already stacked roster of fighters gives the Hitz stable another dangerous big man to go along with Fres Oquendo and Andrey Fedosov,” said Hitz. “”He is a perfect addition to our team.”

Coyne, who has previously held the WBC US cruiserweight as well as the WBA Fedelatin cruiserweight titles expressed his excitement in joining the Hitz Boxing team.

“Bobby is a boxer’s promoter, who goes the distance for his fighters,” said Coyne. “I know I am with a great organization.”

ABOUT HITZ BOXING
Since its debut in 1991, Hitz Boxing has been the Midwest’s leading boxing promoter. Led by Bobby Hitz, who boasted a 21-4 record with 18 KO’s as a boxer, Hitz Boxing is the longest running boxing promoter in the Chicago area dating back to the bi-monthly boxing series the “Ramada Rumble,” held at the former Rosemont Ramada Inn. The organization currently promotes the wildly popular “Fight Night at the Horseshoe” at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, IN and is the subject of the actuality show “Hitz Boxing,” a web series which has amassed over 5 million internet views. Over the year’s the organization has produced matches that have included some of the top names in boxing such as James Toney, Antonio Tarver, Montell Griffin, Iran Barkley, Andrew Golota and “Fast Fres Oquendo.

For more information, please visit: www.hitzboxing.com.

IBF Junior Middleweight Champion “King” Carlos Molina (22-5-2, 6 KO’s) took a break from training yesterday to hang out with all-time-great “Iron” Mike Tyson in Chicago.

Molina, 30, is deep in preparations for his upcoming fight, his first title defense against unbeaten, but unproven, Jermall Charlo (17-0, 13 KO’s) on the Showtime PPV undercard of Saul “Canelo” Alvarez vs. Alfredo Angulo on March 8 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

“We always have a good game plan going in and we’ll have one this time,” said Molina. “We have to train to beat him a number of different ways because you never know what will happen on fight night.”

Molina says he’s not taking 23-year-old Charlo, rated #5 IBF, #5 WBO, #13 WBC, lightly, despite his being unproven against top-flight opposition.

“It’s hard to tell what he’ll bring,” said Molina. “But he’s undefeated, so you have to take him seriously. I’ll be ready for anything.”

Molina is sparring, once again, with undefeated cruiserweight contender Dimar Ortuz, among others.

“Dimar gives me a lot of movement and fights me on the inside and the outside. And he’s very strong, so no matter who I fight on fight night, they’re never as strong as he is.”
ABOUT WARRIORS BOXING

Launched in 2003, Warriors Boxing operates under a simple philosophy-bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans, match them in competitive bouts, and in doing so help re-establish the sport of boxing for a new generation.

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

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

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

Date and venue are set for Marco Huck’s (37-2-1, 26 KOs) next title defense. The WBO World Cruiserweight Champion will lace his gloves again on May 3 at the MHP Arena in Ludwigsburg, Germany. Moreover, this one could feature a special occasion: If Huck wins, he would equal the record for most title defenses at cruiserweight!

“I am excited to have my next bout in Ludwigsburg,” said the 29-year-old titlist, who beat Firat Arslan just two weeks ago in Stuttgart – a 30 minutes car ride from the MHP Arena. “The atmosphere at the Arslan fight was of the charts and I expect nothing less come May 3.”

The chance to establish a record adds motivation for Huck: “It is giving me a vital kick. I am still dreaming to step up to heavyweight to be honest. But to achieve this milestone would definitely mean something special to me.” Johnny Nelson (WBO Champion from 1999 to 2006) is currently the lone record holder.

Kalle Sauerland: “Marco did show in his rematch with Firat Arslan that he is not only one of the best cruiserweights in the world, but a great showman.” The promoter recollects: “As Marco entered the arena he was booed by about 90 percent of the crowd – and when he left, everyone was cheering him. Only a fighter like Marco Huck can do this and on May 3 we will witness it again.”

Huck’s opponent for his record-setting attempt will be announced in a short as well as the pre-sale of tickets for the event in Ludwigsburg.

London (7 February) Kid Galahad will challenge Sergio Prado for the vacant European super bantamweight title with home crowd advantage at Ponds Forge Arena, Sheffield, on March 22nd, live on Channel 5.

The undefeated Ingle trained former WBC International and British super bantamweight champion, Galahad, says “it doesn’t matter who it is” as he bids to add the famous belt to his name and move towards the world level.

“The European title is just another stepping stone,” Galahad said.

“It’s a good title to have but it’s just another step – Naseem Hamed had that same title, Frampton had it, Rendall Munroe had it – all quality fighters have held that belt.

“I want to clean up domestically, get the European and then get myself onto the world level – by the time I get there, in two or three fights, I’ll be 100 percent ready.”

Galahad comes into the contest with real momentum, having emphatically stopped the previously unbeaten English champion Jazza Dickens in his last contest.

The 23-year-old Qatar born Sheffield fighter extended his unblemished record to 15 wins, by producing a stunning 10th round knockout over the Liverpudlian to win the famous Lonsdale belt and is determined to continue his ascent towards the very top.

But Prado will be looking to spoil any such progress.

The 31-year-old former Spanish champion is the current EBU-EU champion and will be coming to the United Kingdom for nothing less than a victory in Galahad’s backyard.

However, Galahad, who has won his last four contests by knockout, is uncompromising in his preparations and confident he will produce another memorable night for his Yorkshire fans.

“I’ve seen one or two clips of Prado and he looks like a decent kid, he can come forward, he’s strong, he can box and he’s there to win,” Galahad said.

“But, it really doesn’t matter who it is – you can’t take anybody lightly, you’ve got to train like it’s your last fight and that’s how champions are made.

“The day you underestimate any fighter is the day you’ll get beat and March 22nd is going to be no different.

“I’m in good shape, I’ve been ticking over since my last fight and I feel fantastic – I can’t wait.”

Having won the purse bid to stage the contest, Hennessy Sports are delighted to bring Galahad back to Yorkshire.

“Barry is a fantastic talent and I truly believe he is the future of the super bantamweight division,” Promoter Mick Hennessy said.

“I believe Barry is destined for big things and this is another step for a great fighter.”

Also scheduled to fight on the show is a whole host of talent, including former WBC world light welterweight champion Junior Witter, Sam O’maison, Tom Mcassey, Atif Shafiq, Karl Bell, David Howe and Callum Hancock.

The rebuilding process continues for David Price (16-2, 14 KOs) when he returns to action on March 8th at the Max-Schmelling-Halle in Berlin.

‘’I am looking forward to getting back into the ring and picking up where I left off in Stuttgart,’’ said Price. ‘’Obviously, I wouldn’t complain if the outcome is the same but I am hoping for a bit more resistance this time. I’d like to get a bit more ring time so I can show everyone what I have been working on and what I am capable of.’’

The British Heavyweight will start a four-week training camp this weekend when renowned US coach Tommy Brooks travels over to Liverpool. ‘’Things are going great with Tommy,’’ said Price. ‘’We have been focusing a lot on my jab and developing that into my main tool. Other than that, it’s back to basics, making sure we do the simple things well.’’

Price is no stranger to the German capital, having previously spent time in the Team Sauerland gyms. ‘’The last time I was in Berlin was for a Sauerland training camp, working with Kubrat Pulev, just before I fought for the British title back in 2012,’’ reveals Price. ‘’I have some good memories from my time in Berlin. It’s a great city and I am looking forward to fighting there on March 8th.’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘It was important for us to get Pricey back in the ring as soon as possible. He did a good job against a limited opponent in Stuttgart but now we must start stepping it up. Berlin is fantastic city and is very accessible from the UK, so we will be expecting a lot of fans to make the trip over to support the big man. We will announce his opponent in the coming weeks.’’

The former British and Commonwealth Champion is the latest addition to the Team Sauerland show at the Max-Schmelling-Halle. IBF Cruiserweight Champion Yoan Pablo Hernandez (28-1, 14 KOs) tops the bill, as he makes his first voluntary defence against the highly rated Pawel Kolodziej (33-0, 18 KOs). Tickets are available at eventim.de.

Main Event- CageSport Featherweight Championship
Drew Brokenshire 144
Talon Hofman 144.5
Contract Weight: 145 Lbs.

Semi Main Event
Julian Erosa 145.5
*Mike Joy 150
Contract Weight: 145+1 Lbs.

Undercard
Miriam Cardoso 113.5
Katie Howard 115
Contract Weight: 115+1 Lbs.

Reagan Benedetti 115.5
Cheryl Chan 116
Contract Weight: 115+1 Lbs.

Arjay Murphy 134.5
Kario Isacc 136
Contract Weight: 135+1 Lbs.

Raven Guice 168.5
Ricky Carrillo 168
Contract Weight: 170+1 Lbs.

Zach Conn 171
Chaz Jordan 170.5
Contract Weight: 170+1 Lbs.

*Woo Johnson 157
Rico Rough 156
Contract Weight: 155+1 Lbs.

*Trevor Sojot 143.5
Eduardo Torres 141
Contract Weight: 140+1 Lbs.

*Camps came to a financial agreement to offset the weight difference.

New York, NY (February 7, 2014) – tough Tennessean Donald “Bulldog” Ward will replace the injured Mike Ruiz as the opponent for Captain Boyd “Rainmaker” Melson Wednesday, February 12 in New York City.

The Melson-Ruiz 154 pound showdown was heavily hyped in the Big Apple, with both men known for their warrior mentality and large fan bases, but a hand injury forced Ruiz out of the bout.

Eight years Melson’s junior, Ward’s professional record is 6-3 with 3 wins by knockout. He’s faced three highly-regarded unbeaten fighters and on September 7 2013, the Memphis native shocked once-beaten hometown favorite William Jackson over six rounds.

“I was really looking forward to facing Ruiz,” said Melson, who is 13-1-1 with 4 knockouts and is one of the most popular fighters in New York. “It’s always tough to switch opponents on short notice, especially when he’s tough as Ward is. His record serves him no justice and he gave Patrick Day a very good fight. I was also amateur teammates with William Jackson, so I know what he’s capable of. Regardless of who I’m fighting, I’ve got a job to do and nothing changes whether it’s Ruiz, Ward or whoever!”

Melson-Ward serves as the eight round main event of the final fight card at the famed Roseland Ballroom, which is closing shortly thereafter.

A four time US Army Champion, 100% of Melson’s purses, fourteen which went to Justadollarplease.org to help support America’s first trial to cure Chronic Spinal Cord Injuries and the other to help a friend who had a young son with cancer, were donated. In August 2013, the 2003 West Point grad outpointed tougher than advertised Jason Thompson for a unanimous decision. That night included 8 rounds of exciting boxing for Melson in front of a standing room only crowd, in which Melson knocked Thompson down in the 8th round. Former NBA power forward/Knicks legend Larry Johnson and Academy Award Winner Cuba Gooding Jr., both fans of Melson, went to the fights that night to support him.
A very limited number of tickets are available on Teamfighttowalk.com . Following the bout, Melson will once again donate his entire fight purse to Justadollarplease.org in support of bringing trials to the United States that could help cure chronic Spinal Cord Injuries. It was recently released in the nationwide media that this clinical trial we are raising funds for to bring here to the U.S. has resulted in 15 out of 20 patients walking enrolled in the study in China who were paralyzed an average of 7 years. Unfortunately, there still is not enough money to carry the trial out in the US but it is estimated that it could start sometime in 2014. The hopes are for this trial to begin at the end of the summer of 2014 with Mount Sinai Hospital- Manhattan’s very own- being one of the hospitals carrying out the study.

In association with the 501 (C) 3 nonprofit Justadollarplease.org, Melson and his best friend Christan Zaccagnino created Team Fight to Walk, whose mission is to raise awareness within the boxing community as well as the entire nation about the importance of bringing Clinical Trials to the United States to help cure Spinal Cord Injuries. Team Fight to Walk is comprised of Melson, Zaccagnino, former Rutgers football player/ESPY honoree Eric LeGrand, two-time cruiserweight champion Steve “USS” Cunningham, Austin “No Doubt” Trout, title contender DeAndre “The Bull” Latimore, Edgar “El Chamaco” Santana, Sonya Lamonakis, Hector “Machito” Camacho Jr., WBO Junior Middleweight titlist/2008 US Olympian Demetrius “Boo” Andrade and fellow 08’ Olympian Shawn Estrada along with prospects Sid “The Messenger” El Harrak, Jeff “TNT” Spencer, Denis “Da Momma’s Boy” Douglin, Will “Power” Rosinsky, Floriano “Italiano” Pagliara, Danny “Little Mac” McDermott, Vinny “The Lion” O’Brien, Ahmed “Prince of Egypt” Samir and Delen “Sniper” Parsley.

To help support efforts, Mannatech, a health and nutrition company that will be on hand during the fight selling products, is donating a percentage of all proceeds to Team Fight to Walk. For more information or to purchase products while helping Team Fight to Walk’s cause, visit Teamfighttowalk.weebly.com.

For more information or to make a donation, go to teamfighttowalk.com or Justadollarplease.org. All specific questions about the nature of the Clinical Trial to cure Spinal Cord Injury can be sent to boydmelson@yahoo.com.

Toronto – Fight Network, the world’s premier 24/7 television channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, presents another live edition of Golden Boy Live! this Monday, February 10, from Cowboys Dancehall in San Antonio, TX.

Fight Network’s live broadcast will kick off at 10 p.m. ET.

Winner of four straight bouts, including an impressive seventh-round technical knockout of Luis Ramos Jr. last November, junior welterweight prospect Fidel “The Atrisco Kid” Maldonado Jr. is back against Puerto Rican power puncher John Nater.

In the co-main event, unbeaten 2012 U.S. Olympian Errol Spence Jr. is scheduled for 10-rounds in the welterweight division versus Peter Oluoch,

In other featured bouts, Julian Williams takes on Alex Buenma, Terrell Gausha meets George Sosa and Luis Torres clashes with Milton Ramos.

Southpaw sensation Fidel “The Atrisco Kid” Maldonado Jr. (17-2, 14 KO’s) may hail from Albuquerque, New Mexico, but if the 22-year-old keeps delivering performances like his recent seventh-round stoppage of Luis Ramos Jr., fans in San Antonio are likely to adopt him as one of their own. Maldonado Jr., former amateur star who bounced back from two 2012 losses to win four consecutive bouts, three by knockout, is definitely a fighter to watch in 2014.

Desoto, Texas’ Errol Spence (10-0, 8 KO’s) has stayed busy since his stint as a member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, and as he’s compiled a perfect professional record, he has fought in California, Florida and Nevada, only visiting his home state once. But on Feb. 10, the hard-hitting 23-year-old southpaw will be back in Texas in search of his eleventh professional victory.

For a full listing of Fight Network’s broadcast schedule, please visit tv.fightnetwork.com and follow on Twitter @fightnet, become a fan on Facebook and visit us on Instagram @fightnet.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (Feb. 7) – Winner of four of his last five bouts, top Puerto Rican prospect John Nater will step up to test welterweight prospect Fidel “The Atrisco Kid” Maldonado Jr. this Monday, Feb. 10 in the main event of FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes’ Golden Boy Live! series at the Cowboys Dancehall in San Antonio, TX. Nater replaces former World Champion Steve Forbes, who was pulled from the bout due to a failed pre-fight medical exam.

In the eight-round welterweight co-main event, unbeaten 2012 U.S. Olympian Errol Spence Jr. takes on Florida’s Peter Olouch and opening the televised portion of the card fans will see an intriguing 10-round junior middleweight showdown between rising star Julian “J-Rock” Williams and longtime contender Alex Bunema.

A professional since 2011, hard-hitting Bayamon prospect John Nater (13-4, 10 KO’s) has the fight stopping power in his fists to turn the outcome of any bout in his favor. A 23-year-old starting to come into his own as a fighter, Nater has won his last two bouts against Ruddy Veloz and Wander Guerrero by first round knockout and he’d like to finish his work early once again on Feb. 10 against Fidel Maldonado Jr.

In the previously announced co-featured fight, Desoto, Texas’ Errol Spence Jr. (10-0, 8 KO’s) will now take on Peter Oluoch (12-6-2, 6 KO’s) in front of his home state fans. Oluoch, a native of Kenya who now fights out of Pahokee, FL., Oluoch is coming off of a big win over 16-1-1 top prospect Jake Giuriceo and he’s seeking the upset once again when he faces Spence Jr.

One of boxing’s top prospects across all weight classes, 23-year-old Philadelphia native Julian “J-Rock” Williams (14-0-1, 8 KO’s) continues to impress with each outing, most recently stopping Orlando Lora in three rounds last December. Already a winner over former World Champion Joachim Alcine, Williams will kick off his 2014 campaign against Congo-native Alex “The Technician” Bunema (31-10-2, 17 KO’s). Now making his home in Memphis, Tenn., Bunema has faced off with some of the best in the business including Sergio Martinez, Vince Phillips, Jermain Taylor and Bronco McKart and now he will attempt to stop Williams’ unbeaten string.

Also in action this Monday will be Spence’s 2012 U.S. Olympic teammate Terrell Gausha (12-2, 6 KO’s), who has won seven straight, five by knockout, since competing in the London Games. On Feb. 10, 26-year-old Cleveland’s Gausha, will battle Trenton, New Jersey’s knockout artist George Sosa (13-5, 13 KO’s) in an eight-round middleweight bout.
In undercard action, Texas’ finest will take to the ring to thrill their local fans. In four-round bouts, San Antonio welterweight Kendo Castaneda (5-0, 1 KO) faces McAllen’s Randy Fuentes (3-1-1), debuting junior middleweight Gibran Ruiz meets fellow San Antonio native John Arrevalo (1-1), promising featherweight up and comer Joseph Rodriguez (4-0, 2 KO’s) of San Antonio battles Dallas’ Jesus Garza (2-3-1), Austin’s Marco Solis makes his professional debut in a junior welterweight match against San Antonio’s Danny Sanchez (0-6) and another hometown favorite, junior featherweight Mario Barrios (1-0) takes on Laredo’s Manuel Rubalcava (1-6).

A six-round welterweight fight will pit Laredo’s Luis Torres (5-3-3, 1 KO) against Waco’s Milton Ramos (9-4-2) and in a six-round junior welterweight contest, Austin’s Travell Mazion (6-0, 5 KO’s), who is trained by former world champion Ann Wolfe, will face an opponent to be named. The junior welterweight opener, scheduled for four rounds, will see 19-year-old phenom Justin DeLoach (5-0, 3 KO’s) of Georgia, Louisiana meeting Agua Prieta, Sonora Mexico’s German Valdez (2-3-1, 1 KO).

Maldonado Jr. vs. Nater is a 10-round welterweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions and Leija*Battah Promotions and sponsored by Corona and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Cowboys Dancehall doors open at 5:00 p.m. CT and the first fight starts at 5:30 p.m. CT. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 10:00 p.m. ET/9:00 p.m. CT/7:00 p.m. PT.
Tickets, priced at $100, $65, $35 and $24, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges are available for purchase now by phone by calling Leija*Battah Promotions at (210) 979-3302, m@leijabattahpromo.com or text “Tickets” to 210-556-7390. Tables are also available for $260 plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, follow on Twitter atwww.twitter.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.twitter.com/LeijaBattahPR, www.twitter.com/atriscokid and www.twitter.com/cowboysdancehall, follow the conversation using #GoldenBoyLive, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page and Leija*Battah Facebook Page. Also, visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing. For more information on FOX Sports 1 and FOXDeportes.com, visit FOXSports.com and become a follower on @FOXSports1 and @FOXDeportes.

SAN ANTONIO (February 7, 2015) – Unbeaten super bantamweight sensation, Mario Barrios (1-0, 1 KO) returns to the ring Monday, February 10th against Manuel Rubalcava (1-6) at the Cowboys Dance Hall, San Antonio, Texas.

Barrios, who was an amateur standout, faces a durable opponent in Rubalcava who’s never been stopped before, after having faced five undefeated opponents. The 18-year old prodigy, who stands 6’0 tall, feels his career is heading in the right direction and plans on shinning come fight night.

“I’m happy to be fighting in my hometown once again,” said Barrios. “I know Rubalcava will be a step up in competition and I’m not taking this fight lightly. He’s went the distance in all his fights so I know he can take a punch. I’m going to put on a great show for all the fans that’ll be in attendance. My game plan is to go out there and dictate the fight.”

“I’m very thankful to everyone on my team, my trainers, managers and family. Since turning pro last November, I feel I’m ready to take the boxing world by storm. With each fight I’m hoping to gain the experience to prepare me for the next level. I’m looking to make an impact in 2014.”

Roberto Garcia 155 vs. Norberto Gonzalez 157 Kamil Laszczyk 125 vs. Daniel Diaz 125 Erickson Lubin 147.5 vs. Roberto Carlos Acevedo 145.5 Ahmad Cheikho 147.5 vs. Francisco Rios-Gil 148
Junior Wright 199 vs. Galen Brown 193
Patryk Szymanski 154 vs. Daniel Hicks 152
Kristin Gearhart 140 vs. Allanna Jones 141
Jose Felix Quesada 135 vs. Christopher Jackson 134.5

Venue: UIC Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois
Promoters: Iron Mike Productions, 8 Count Productions, Warriors Boxing
TV: ESPN Friday Night Fights

Tickets for “Friday Night Fights” are priced at VIP $151, VIP Ringside $101, Ringside $76, Mezzanine $51 and General Admission $31 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000), the 8 Count Productions Offices: 312-226-5800 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office: 312-413-5740.

Las Vegas, Nevada – The Ultimate Fighting Championship® announced today that it will celebrate Black History Month by taking part in a series of events and appearances nationwide throughout the month of February.

UFC® stars such as flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson, Uriah Hall, Rashad Evans, Anthony Johnson, Tyron Woodley and Phil Davis will visit multiple cities across the United States to take part in community and charitable events, media tours and other appearances. The tour will visit New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta.

FOX Sports commentator Karyn Bryant will also participate.

The following cities will be visited throughout the celebration:

· Monday, Feb. 24 – New York City with Demetrious Johnson & Uriah Hall

· Tuesday, Feb. 25 – Philadelphia with Demetrious Johnson & Uriah Hall

· Wednesday, Feb. 26 – Washington, D.C. with Rashad Evans & Anthony Johnson

· Thursday, Feb. 27 – Atlanta with Rashad Evans & Anthony Johnson

· Friday, Feb. 28 – Los Angeles with Phil Davis & Tyron Woodley

**Talent subject to change

UFC.com/BHM will also be home to exclusive content chronicling the coast-to-coast celebration. More information on the tour, including schedules and stops in each city, will be announced in the days to come.

About the Ultimate Fighting Championship®

Universally recognized for its action-packed, can’t-miss events that have sold out some of the biggest arenas and stadiums across the globe, the UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, headquartered in Las Vegas and with offices in London, Toronto, Sao Paulo, Beijing and Singapore, UFC produces more than 30 live events annually and is the largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. In 2012, the UFC burst into the mainstream with a landmark seven-year broadcast agreement with FOX Sports Media Group. The agreement includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network annually, with additional fight cards and thousands of hours of programming broadcast on FOX properties FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. This also includes the longest-running sports reality show on television, The Ultimate Fighter®, which airs on FOX Sports 1.

In addition to its reach on FOX, UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries and territories, to nearly 882 million TV households worldwide, in 28 different languages. UFC content is also distributed commercially in the United States to bars and restaurants through Joe Hand Promotions, in English throughout Canada via Premium Sports Broadcasting Inc. and Australia via Main Event and in French throughout Quebec via Interbox. The UFC also connects with tens of millions of fans through its website, UFC.com, as well as social media sites Facebook and Twitter. UFC President Dana White is considered one of the most accessible and followed executives in sports, with nearly 2.7 million followers on Twitter. Ancillary UFC businesses include best-selling DVDs and video games, an internationally distributed magazine, UFC.TV offering live event broadcasts and video on demand around the world, a new franchise in development with EA, UFC GYM®, UFC Fight Club affinity program, UFC Fan Expo® festivals, branded apparel and trading cards.

EDMONTON (Feb. 6, 2014) – World Series of Fighting Canada will crown its first Canadian welterweight champion, as one of Canada’s best, Edmonton, Alberta’s own Ryan “The Real Deal” Ford (21-4) takes on the KO artist Joel Powell (7-3) of Hamilton, Ontario.

The bout headlines “World Series of Fighting Canada: Ford vs. Powell,” which takes place Friday, Feb. 21 at Alberta’s Edmonton Expo Centre. Tickets for the event, which start at just $60 and include cageside seats for just $180, are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com. Tickets are already almost sold out!

“World Series of Fighting Canada: Ford vs. Powell,” which will feature a full lineup of top Canadian talent airs on NBCSN on Feb. 28 at 9 p.m. ET.

“Ford and Powell have been on a collision course this past year, as both guys have just been steamrolling their opponents,” World Series of Fighting Canada COO Darren Owen said. “This fight was supposed to happen in July, but injury forced Powell out of the matchup, and Ford went on to claim the Aggression Fighting Championship welterweight title against Michael Hill. In that fight, Ford broke his arm early in the first round but went on to submit Hill late in the fifth round with the broken arm. Both fighters are now healthy and injury free and will put on what a lot of people think will be a fight-of-the-year type performance.”

MMA fans know Ford for his aggressive fighting style and remember his wins over MMA notables Luis “Sapo” Santos, Karo Parisyan and Pete Spratt, among others. Ford has won nine out of his past 10 fights and has 19 finishes in his 21 career victories.

Powell has been on a tear as of late, winning 6 out of his last 7 bouts since 2008, while boasting an undefeated record while competing as a welterweight. With wins over Brandt Dewsbery, Advin Omic, George Lockhart and Michael Hill.

The winner of this main event will be crowned the inaugural World Series of Fighting Canadian welterweight champion.

In the night’s co-main event, top heavyweight prospects collide as the heavy-handed Smealinho “The Prince” Rama (6-1) meets (4-0) Steve Mocco a U.S. Olympic wrestler who is widely considered one of the greatest wrestlers in US history. Mocco is also regarded as one of the top Heavyweight prospects in all of MMA who owns 5 wrestling victories over UFC Champion Cain Velasquez.

Main Card:
170lbs- Ryan Ford (21-4) vs. Joel Powell (7-3)
**Canadian Welterweight Title Fight**
265lbs- Steve Mocco (4-0) vs. Smealinho Rama (6-1)
170lbs- Michael Hill (6-2) vs. Ryan Dickson (6-1)
145lbs- Josh Machan (11-4) vs. Adam Lorenz (7-3)
170lbs- Brandt Dewsbery (10-3-1) vs. Mark Drummond (5-1)

Preliminary Card:
145lbs- Lenny Wheeler (6-3) vs. Will Romero (9-4)
200lbs- Matt Baker (9-5) vs. Mike Kent (9-4)
265lbs- Tim Hague (15-8) vs. Lee Mein (6-12)
135lbs- Owen Carr (4-2-1) vs. Maged Hammo (5-3)
145lbs- Behrang Yousefi (5-3) vs. Hakeem Dawodu (0-0)
155lbs- Roger Alves (1-1) vs. Jemark Brady (2-2)
170lbs- Justin Evans (0-0) vs. Stuart Fontaine (0-0)

Oahu, HI – UFC GYM®, known for its TRAIN DIFFERENT® approach that combines the world of mixed martial arts (MMA) and fitness, will celebrate the opening of its newest gym in Waikele, HI on Saturday, Feb. 8th. UFC GYM BJ Penn is a partnership with former two-division champion and Season 19 coach of The Ultimate Fighter®, BJ Penn. In addition to being the 100th UFC GYM to open, the new site is the second BJ Penn signature gym in the fighter’s home state of HI, joining the first location in Oahu.

UFC GYM BJ Penn will open for workouts with a New Member Day full of activities for members and the entire community. The 24-hour, full-service gym is located in the Waikele Center at 94-875 Lumiana Street, Suite 15. New Member Day festivities will take place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and will include private tours, live demonstrations, one-on-one training assessments, special retail bargains, food, music and exclusive membership and personal training discounts all day long.

“I’m proud that the opening of my second gym marks this milestone in UFC GYMs growth,” said BJ Penn, a native of Hilo. “I opened my first gym in Oahu two years ago to share my workouts and lifestyle with the community. The results and techniques have proven very effective for our members. I couldn’t be happier to expand to the west side of the island to continue to impact the way people work out and TRAIN DIFFERENT.”

The location in Waikele extends over 30,000 square feet and features a 30 foot Octagon™, Brazilian jiu-jitsu studio, bag room, top-of-the-line strength training and cardio machines, battling ropes, agility ladders and other functional training equipment for dynamic workouts. Members also have access to UFC GYM’s signature classes such as Daily Ultimate Training® (DUT®), UFC FIT™, TRX, BJJ, Boxing, Muay Thai, specialized youth fitness training and a team of elite personal trainers.

“In our Honolulu location, we have seen thousands of members accomplish next level results utilizing the training techniques practiced by the world’s most elite UFC athletes. We are very excited to raise the UFC GYM flag on the west side of Oahu.” said Adam Sedlack, UFC GYM President. “To date, more than 100,000 members have seen overwhelming success. We are honored to celebrate this important tipping point for our brand and look forward to continuing to bring our TRAIN DIFFERENT approach to the rest of the world.”

UFC GYMs are currently open in the U.S. and Australia. There is a unique opportunity to own and operate the new UFC GYM franchise model across the U.S. and the globe. For more information, visit www.ufcgym.com/franchising.

About UFC GYM®
UFC GYM® is the first major brand extension of the Ultimate Fighting Championship®, the world leader in the sport of mixed martial arts (MMA). In alliance with New Evolution Ventures™ (NeV), developers of many of the world’s most successful fitness brands, the UFC GYM brand gives UFC enthusiasts and fitness seekers of all ages the opportunity to practice the training techniques of famed UFC athletes. Offering a full-range of group fitness classes, private MMA training, personal and group dynamic training, plus MMA style youth programming, UFC GYM creates something for all ages and fitness levels. As the first to combine the world of mixed martial arts and fitness, UFC GYM’s TRAIN DIFFERENT® approach has developed an atmosphere where members can see immediate results. UFC GYM is the ultimate fitness experience. The brand is not what you expect, and more than you can imagine, aiming to continue revolutionizing the fitness industry. For more information, please visit www.ufcgym.com.

About New Evolution Ventures® (NeV)
Based in Northern California, New Evolution Ventures® (NeV) has a two-decade plus record of success in delivering superior returns on investment, specializing in the acquisition, development and operations management of both domestic and international fitness endeavors. Founded in 2008 by Mark Mastrov, Jim Rowley and Mike Feeney and following a strategic partnership with Vision Capital in 2011, the current team of NeV professionals is setting industry-wide standards one brand at a time. Operations have spanned over 20 countries worldwide and included hundreds of facilities. Our team’s industry experience has positioned NeV as a global leader in its field, expanding and reinventing the vision of fitness. For more information, visit www.nev.com.

About Ultimate Fighting Championship®
Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, the Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Beijing, Singapore and Sao Paulo, the UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that have sold out some of the biggest arenas and stadiums across the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in over 145 countries to 800+ million TV households worldwide in 28 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S. which includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network annually, The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS™, a digital subscription service with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. UFC also owns over 100 UFC GYM® locations, UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT™ (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC 360 (the internationally distributed magazine), a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, best-selling DVDs and Blu-rays, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, Octagon™ branded apparel and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit www.UFC.com and follow UFC at www.Facebook.com/UFC and Twitter: @UFC.

SAN DIEGO (February 6, 2014) – Gary Shaw Productions presents, ESPN “Friday Night Fights” March 7th at the Pala Casino Spa and Resort in Pala, California. The card is headlined by the rejuvenated Russian warrior and top Lightweight contender, Rustam Nugaev as he takes on Mexico’s Marvin Quintero in a 10-round lightweight tilt. The bout will go a long way in deciding the next potential title challenger at 135lbs.

Nugaev (26-6-1, 16KOs) is riding a five fight win streak — four of which stem from his 2013 campaign — and has revived his career after not competing in 2012. He is certainly knocking on the door of a title shot and a win against Quintero (25-4, 21KOs), who is coming off a loss at the hands of IBF lightweight champion Miguel Vazquez, would propel him that much closer. Nugaev is currently ranked WBA # 3, WBC # 7 and IBF # 9.

Nugaev has been in the ring with some stiff competition and this stage should offer some familiarity. That advantage will make him dangerous. He defeated former undefeated Peruvian star, Jonathan Maicelo and Daniel Attah in 2013, both by knockout. His approach in the ring is somewhat unconventional, but he is always determined to make great fights and puts himself in a position to stop his opponents.

“Of course the goal is to reach the top of your division and I have never wanted anything more, but I don’t just want to win, I want to do it in a way that makes others take notice. Not to take anything away from winning a title because it is a huge accomplishment, but I want to win people’s respect while doing so. I want to destroy my competition and leave no doubt,” Nugaev said.

While the full card isn’t quite set, Gary Shaw is confident in the action provided thus far.

“You don’t have to appreciate boxing to enjoy the kind of excitement expected on March 7th, said Gary Shaw. “The main event involves two fighters that always come to fight. The style matchup will be pleasing to the fans. But the stakes are higher for both Rustam and Marvin, which makes me believe the degree of action could be raised as well.”

“Rustam Nugaev is on the fast track to the top of his division, he is fun to watch and I think we’ve matched him with the perfect opponent to display his full potential,” Shaw concluded.

Undercard to be announced shortly.

Tickets for the Gary Shaw Productions event, priced at $150, $100, $50 and $25, go on sale this Friday February 7 at 10:00 am PST and can be purchased at Pala Resort Casino Box office, at the Pala Privileges Center, or by calling 1-877-WIN-PALA. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.startickets.com or by calling 1-800-585-3737.

The Pala Casino Resort and Spa is located at 11154 Hwy 76, Pala, CA 92059. Doors open at 5:00 p.m, first fight starts at 5:30 p.m (PST). ESPN “Friday Night Fights” telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. EST / 6:00 p.m. PST.

Weslaco, Texas, middleweight veteran Roberto “La Amenaza” Garcia (33-3, 22 KOs) says he’s ready to go this Friday, February 7, when he steps in to face Monterrey, Mexico’s Norberto “Demonio” Gonzalez (20-2, 13 KOs) in the Friday Night Fights-televised 10-round main event at UIC Pavilion in Chicago.

33-year-old Garcia is serving as a late-substitute opponent, due to an injury to “Mantequilla” Gonzalez.

“I believe in myself and in my abilities, so it doesn’t matter who I fight,” said Garcia. “I’m a throwback fighter. I don’t duck anybody. These are the kinds of fights I take to prove what I can do.”

Presented by Mike Tyson and Garry Jonas (Iron Mike Productions), Dominic Pesoli (8 Count Productions) and Leon Margules (Warriors Boxing), in addition to Garcia vs. Gonzalez, “Friday Night Fights” at UIC Pavilion will also feature a 10-round, televised co-feature between undefeated featherweight prospect Kamil Laszczyk (15-0, 7 KOs) of Warsaw, Poland, and Nicaragua’s Daniel “El General” Diaz (20-5-1, 14 KOs), plus 18-year-old welterweight prospect Erickson “Hammer” Lubin (2-0, 2 KOs) opening the telecast in a four-rounder vs. TBA.

Tickets for “Friday Night Fights” are priced at VIP $151, VIP Ringside $101, Ringside $76, Mezzanine $51 and General Admission $31 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster (Ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000), the 8 Count Productions Offices: 312-226-5800 or the UIC Pavilion Box Office: 312-413-5740.

Garcia says he’s seen one two-minute video of opponent Gonzalez, but isn’t worried about it.

“I made it clear to my team this year that I’m ready to fight anyone and just go for it. I’m a pressure fighter, I move forward and mix it up and I’m just going to go in there and see if he can take the heat. I’m always ready for 10 or 12 consistent rounds of breaking my opponent down. Let’s see what happens.”

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About Iron Mike Productions (IMP)

Founded in 2013 by CEO Garry Jonas and Hall of Famer Mike Tyson, Iron Mike Productions is a full-service boxing promotional company with offices located in Deerfield Beach, Florida, and Las Vegas, Nevada. IMP is committed to changing traditional boxing promotion by advocating for its fighters’ successes, inside the ring and out, throughout their professional careers and into retirement.

About Warriors Boxing

Launched in 2003, Warriors Boxing operates under a simple philosophy-bring the best boxers in the world to fight fans, match them in competitive bouts, and in doing so help re-establish the sport of boxing for a new generation.

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

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

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

About 8 Count Productions

8 Count Productions, Home Of The Best In Chicago Boxing, was started by Dominic Pesoli in 1998 and has consistently presented the highest quality professional boxing events in Chicagoland.

Fighters currently under the 8 Count Productions banner include; IBO Light Heavyweight World Champion Andrzej Fonfara, middleweight contender Donovan George, world-class junior welterweight prospect Adrian Granados, former world title challenger Edner Cherry, super middleweight prospect Paul Littleton, middleweight prospect Viktor Polyakov and welterweight prospect Jaime Herrera.

For more information on 8 Count Productions please visit their new website, www.8countproductions.com.

For additional information go online at www.IronMikeProductions.com or www.8countproductions.comorwww.WarriorsBoxing.com.

Mike Tyson Web Site – miketyson.com
Facebook: facebook.com/miketyson
Twitter: @MikeTyson @IronMikeProd

Chicago, IL, Thursday, February 6, 2014–Boxing promoters Bobby Hitz of Hitz Boxing and Frank “Muggs” Mugnolo of Round 3 Productions announced that they have signed dynamic Chicago super middleweight Donovan “Don Da Bomb” George (24-4-2, 21 KOs) to a promotional contract. When George won his first Golden Gloves championship it was Hitz who presented him with the trophy.

“I have known Donovan since he was a kid and I am so excited about signing him. He is a one of the most promising super middleweight prospects,” said Hitz. “His career has come full circle, I remember handing him his first Golden Gloves trophy and now he is a member of the Hitz team. Muggs and I have big plans for him.”

George, who leads “Team Boom”, is expected to make his Hitz/Round 3 debut in early March. His “Team Boom” stablemate, super middleweight Mike “Hollywood” Jimenez (12-0, 9 KOs), is also on the Hitz roster.

“Since I started boxing Bobby has been a huge part of my life, a mentor. I cannot wait to take the ring with Bobby and Muggs backing me. I am ready to dominate,” said George. “Hollywood and I are ready to rule the supper middleweight division, not just in Chicago, but nationwide.”

Hitz Boxing and Round 3 Productions recently began working together at the end of 2013.

“I am glad Bobby and I are coming together to sign a fighter of Donovan’s caliber,” said Mugnolo. “Stay tuned we have more exciting plans in the works.”

ABOUT HITZ BOXING
Since its debut in 1991, Hitz Boxing has been the Midwest’s leading boxing promoter. Led by Bobby Hitz, who boasted a 21-4 record with 18 KO’s as a boxer, Hitz Boxing is the longest running boxing promoter in the Chicago area dating back to the bi-monthly boxing series the “Ramada Rumble,” held at the former Rosemont Ramada Inn. The organization currently promotes the wildly popular “Fight Night at the Horseshoe” at the Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, IN and is the subject of the actuality show “Hitz Boxing,” a web series which has amassed over 5 million internet views. Over the year’s the organization has produced matches that have included some of the top names in boxing such as James Toney, Antonio Tarver, Montell Griffin, Iran Barkley, Andrew Golota and “Fast Fres Oquendo.

For more information, please visit: www.hitzboxing.com.

Two brothers. Two titles at stake. And a common goal of being the best in the world. Patrick and Micki Nielsen ooze confidence before their title fights on February 15th at the Albertslund MusikTeatret in Copenhagen, Denmark.

“I’ve trained harder and more disciplined than ever before. There’s a major belt at stake and I want my hands on it.”

So says 22-year-old Patrick Nielsen ahead of his fight for the WBC Silver Championship against American Tony Jeter.

“I’m so excited to fight again. I’m in great shape. It doesn’t get much better,” says Nielsen, who last boxed four months ago winning via fifth-round knockout against Jose Pinzon.

His two years younger, brother, Micki is facing Georgian Gogita Gorgiladze for the WBC Youth World Title .

“We talk a lot about us both winning titles. We built each other up as brothers do. We have a feeling that nothing can stop us,” says Patrick Nielsen.

Micki Nielsen can hardly wait to get in the ring.

“That’s what I train for. To stand in the ring and prove myself. Just the walk to the ring gives me a great kick. It would be fantastic to win my first belt. It’s a big step towards the big dream of becoming a world champion.”

Micki Nielsen reveals that the relationship between the brothers is more friendly today than in the past.

“When we were 14-15 years old, we boxed against each other, but we had to stop because we became too angry with each other. We did not spare the other because we both wanted so much to win. You could be sure that you got payback if you hit the other hard,” Micki Nielsen tells with a smile.

“Today we are fighting for each other and help and support each other to get ready for the fights. It means a lot to me how Patrick is doing. I’m only relaxed when we both have fought our battles.”