FORMER WORLD CHAMPION MARIO BARRIOS PROMISES ACTION FOR HOMETOWN FANS IN SAN ANTONIO ON SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 AT THE ALAMODOME

LAS VEGAS – February 1, 2023 – Former world champion and San Antonio’s own Mario “El Azteca” Barrios shared insights into his training camp with top trainer Bob Santos and promised fireworks for his hometown fans when he takes on Jovanie Santiago on Saturday, February 11 live on SHOWTIME from the Alamodome in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions.

Barrios (26-2, 17 KOs) will face Puerto Rico’s Santiago in the 10-round co-main event of a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. The action is headlined by undefeated two-division world champion Rey Vargas dueling top 130-pound contender O’Shaquie Foster for the vacant WBC Super Featherweight World Championship.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com.

A former champion at 140-pounds, the 27-year-old Barrios returns to the ring after dropping his welterweight debut to former unified champion Keith Thurman in a February 2022 action fight. Following the fight, Barrios reunited with former trainer Bob Santos, who has recently trained Hector Luis Garcia and Alberto Puello to world titles. As he looks to restart his ascent in the star-studded 147-pound division, he will return to the Alamodome, where he previously scored an October 2020 KO of Ryan Karl.

Here is what Barrios had to say about training camp, Santiago and more:

On fighting at home in San Antonio, Texas:

“I’m always excited to give my fans back home an entertaining fight. I love where I’m from and I’m always proud to step in the ring representing San Antonio. I’m very thankful for another opportunity to fight in front of the San Antonio fans. It’s going to be an explosive night of boxing and I’m promising an action packed fight.” 

On his recent training camp:

“I have relocated my training camp to Las Vegas, Nevada, and am back working with Bob Santos. It’s been a change of pace, and coming off a bit of a lay-off, after some really big fights, it’s been refreshing resting my mind and body after two hard camps back-to-back. The change is one I think that’s going to elevate my career these next few years, because I’ll be training in the fight capital of the world.

“I think a lot of fighters lose motivation once they have fought on pay-per-view, but being around so many fighters who are in their prime at the Pound4pound boxing gym out here has been pushing me every day. I am thrilled with how the camp has gone, and I think people will see everything I’ve been working on come fight night. I also have my sister Selina working in my corner as well. We started this sport together and I’m thankful to still have her input in the corner. Everything has been great leading up to this fight.” 

On his opponent, Jovanie Santiago:

“I think he’s a quality fighter. He had a close fight with Adrien Broner that many say he should have won. I thought he struggled with Gary Antuanne Russell, but Gary is a great fighter. I personally think Santiago is a guy that if you take him lightly, he can make you look bad. In no way am I intending to disrespect him, but I am going to show why I have been featured on two pay-per-view main events and am a former world champion. This fight is about me ending this lay off and proving that I am at a different level, and a threat in this division. I think you will see a clear separation between us in this bout.”

On what a win does for his career:

“A win puts me in the position I want to be in, which is competing for a world title. A lot of titles have become vacant as of late, and I think with a strong showing I could get in the mix with any of the world champions in the division. My goal right now is to become a two-time world champion, and that is what I am set on doing. A win essentially gives me that next step to get close to a title eliminator or the bigger names in the welterweight division. I want to perform in a way that makes my city and my team proud and continues to make the networks want to see me in bigger fights.”

#          #          #

ABOUT VARGAS VS. FOSTER

Vargas vs. Foster will see undefeated two-division world champion Rey Vargas battle top 130-pound contender O’Shaquie Foster for the vacant WBC Super Featherweight World Championship in a showdown that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, February 11 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas topping a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features former champion and all-action San Antonio-native Mario “El Azteca” Barrios returning to the ring in a 10-round welterweight duel against Jovanie Santiago that serves as the co-main event. Kicking off the action, hard-hitting unbeaten heavyweights go toe-to-toe as Cuba’s Lenier Peró takes on Ukraine’s Viktor Faust in a 10-round attraction.

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




Wednesday Boxing in Mexico City JMM Promotions & Chiquita Gonzalez Promotions Live on ProBox TV and the ProBox App

February 3, 2023, Mexico City, Mexico  – –  International Boxing Hall of Fame members Juan Manuel Marquez, nine-time world champion in four weight classes, and four time world champion Humberto “Chiquita” Gonzalez, are co-promoting a Boxing event on Wednesday, February 8 at the Auditorio Blackberry in Mexico City.  The event will be streamed live on ProBox TV and the ProBox app, beginning at 8 pm ET / 5 pm CT.

Watch FREE on ProBox YouTube and ProBox Facebook, or no ads on ProBoxTV.com or the ProBox App.

Time:               8 PM/EST Live Stream

Promoters:      JMM (Juan Manuel Marquez) Promotions, 

                        (Humberto) Chiquita Gonzalez Promotions, 

Main Event – 10 Rounds Super Bantamweight

Brayan “Azteca” Rivera, 118.6 lbs., 11-3 9 KO’s, Ecatepec, Mexico                 vs.

Alejandro “Conejo” Gonzalez118.6 lbs., 12-5-2 7 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico

Brayan Rivera: “I’ve been in the gym training for four months and I got the call for this fight about a month ago. I did take a couple days off for Christmas – some celebration with restrictions.  In the couple losses prior to my last fight (a unanimous decision October 29 win) I learned that I have to be a little smarter and more mature when I face tougher opponents. Gonzalez is an experienced fighter with a very good amateur record.  He has power.  I don’t want to give any more details because he is sitting right next to me.”

Alejandro Gonzalez: “I got the call about six weeks ago for this fight. I had been training in Mexico City where there is a lot of talent for sparring. We know each other very well going back to the amateirs.  Rivera is smart and also a knockout artist and has championship boxing experience. My style is not about one-punch power but it’s about combinations and being smart. I hurt my opponents with the combinations.”

Co-Feature – 8 Rounds Flyweights

Francisco Araujo, 108.5 lbs., 10-1, 7 KO’s Merida, Mexico      vs

Ivan Garcia, 107.4 lbs., 8-2-1 5 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico

Francisco Araujo: “Garcia is very tall. But I am ready to take the challenge. I got the call 3 weeks ago but was already trading long before that. I am always ready for a fight. I was training in high altitude. I usually fight at 50 kilos and I usually walk around close to that.I want to bring heavy volume into the fight and bring pressure.close distance .  My style and the way that I hit I do not expect the fight to go the distance.  I took the fight in 3 weeks because I wanted this opp.

Ivan “El Magnifico” Garcia: “I got the call 2 weeks ago, I had been preparing for another fight that we were negotiating so I was ready for this.  I am always ready.  When I got the call I had been working on another fight that I thought was going to happen. I looked at this opponent (Araujo) and he looks like a warrior.  He looks strong and I see the fight developing at midrange.”

6 Rounds Light Welterweights

Alexis De La Cruz Martinez140 lbs., 6-1-1 3 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico        vs

Ismael Aviles Valencia, 133.4 lbs.,

6 Rounds Super Welterweights 

Jesus Mauricio Estrada140.4 lbs., 7-0 4 KOs, Mexico, Mexico

Leyver Lopez Razgado, 140.4 lbs., 3-3-1, 1 KO, Oaxaca, Mexico

6 Rounds flyweights

Emiliano Toscano Diaz109.4 lbs., 7-0, 3 KOs, Mexico City, Mexico         vs.       

Sergio Manzo Rebolledo, 108 lbs., 3-2, 1 KOs Mexico, 

4 Rounds Super Featherweights

Jose Guillermo Keb Canul127.2 lbs., 1-0, Cancun, Mexico         vs

Brayan Sanchez Santiago, 124.4 lbs.,

4 Rounds Super Welterweights

Jaime Osuna153 lbs., 1-0, Baja California Sur, Mexico     vs

Israel Resendiz Avila151.7 lbs.,

Follow ProBox TV at https://twitter.com/ProBox_TV and https://www.youtube.com/c/ProBoxTV

For more ProBox TV info click here https://proboxtv.com/what-is-probox-tv/en




UFC® RETURNS TO SAN ANTONIO WITH BLOCKBUSTER BANTAMWEIGHT CONTENDERS’ BOUT BETWEEN (#4) MARLON VERA AND (#5) CORY SANDHAGEN

Las Vegas – UFC® returns to San Antonio, Texas, for the first time in almost four years with a pair of thrilling 135-pound matchups. Surging No. 4 ranked bantamweight contender Marlon Vera goes for his fifth consecutive win when he takes on exciting finisher and No. 5 ranked Cory Sandhagen. Also, former women’s bantamweight champion and current No. 3 ranked Holly Holm battles No. 6 Yana Santos in the co-main event.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: VERA vs. SANDHAGEN will take place Saturday, March 25 at AT&T Center. The main card will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick off streaming exclusively on ESPN+ at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT, before also being broadcast on ESPN and ESPN Deportes at 4:30pm ET / 1:30pm PT.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: VERA vs. SANDHAGEN tickets will go on sale Friday, Feb. 10 at 10 a.m. CT and are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 10 a.m. CT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, Feb. 9 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Media members wishing to apply for UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: VERA vs. SANDHAGEN fight week credentials may sign up here.

Vera (20-7-1, fighting out of Chone, Manabi, Ecuador) aims to deliver another show-stealing performance in his third consecutive main event. A diverse finisher, he holds spectacular KO victories over Dominick Cruz, Frankie Edgar and Sean O’Malley. Vera now hopes to secure a title shot by becoming the first fighter to knock out Sandhagen.

Former interim bantamweight title challenger Sandhagen (15-4, fighting out of Aurora, Colo.) is no stranger to highlight-reel performances. Since joining the UFC roster in 2018, he has delivered incredible KO wins against Frankie Edgar, Marlon Moraes and Iuri Alcantara. Sandhagen now looks to halt Vera’s momentum and stake his claim for a shot at the belt.

Holm (14-6, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) intends to start her year with a vintage KO win. Among the greatest women’s combat sports athletes of all-time, she holds memorable victories over Ronda Rousey, Megan Anderson and Bethe Correia. Holm now plans to stop her former teammate and defend her spot in the rankings.

Former UFC title challenger Santos (14-6 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of Saint Petersburg, Russia) looks to secure the biggest win of her career. A talented striker, she has earned notable wins against Ketlen Vieira, Marion Reneau and Lina Lansberg. Santos now has her sights set on cracking the division’s Top 5 by finishing Holm.

Additional bouts on the card include:

  • No. 6 ranked flyweight contender Alex Perez (24-7, fighting out of Lemoore, Calf.) faces No. 9 Manel Kape (18-6, fighting out of Phuket, Thailand by way of Porto, Portugal) in a bout guaranteed to delivered fireworks
  • No. 8 ranked contender Sean Brady (15-1, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.) locks horns with No. 14 Michel Pereira (28-11 2 NC, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) in an intriguing welterweight tilt
  • No. 15 ranked featherweight contender Alex Caceres (20-13 1 NC, fighting out of Miami, Fla.) aims to defend his spot in the rankings when he meets rising Nate Landwehr (16-4, fighting out of Clarksville, Tenn.)
  • Dana White’s Contender Series signees collide when Chidi Njokuani (22-8 1 NC, fighting out of Garland, Texas) faces Albert Duraev (15-4, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Grozny, Russia) at middleweight
  • Daniel Pineda (27-14 2 NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) takes on Tucker Lutz (12-2, fighting out of Baltimore, Md.) in a featherweight bout
  • Steven Peterson (19-10, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) meets Lucas Alexander (7-3, fighting out of Orlando, Fla. by way of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) at featherweight
  • Trevin Giles (15-4, fighting out of Houston, Texas) looks to build off the momentum of his most recent victory when he takes on Preston Parsons (10-3, fighting out of Jacksonville Beach, Fla.) in a welterweight bout
  • Liang Na (17-6, fighting out of Heilongjiang, China) goes for her first UFC win when she faces Brogan Walker (8-3, fighting out of Hagatna, Guam) at flyweight
  • San Antonio’s own CJ Vergara (10-4-1, fighting out of San Antonio, Texas) aims to steal the show when he squares off with Daniel Da Silva (11-4, fighting out of Valença, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) in a flyweight matchup
  • No. 9 ranked women’s flyweight contender Andrea Lee (13-6, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) battles No. 12 Maycee Barber (11-2, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.)

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click here to apply for the event.

###

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 228 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About AT&T Center

The premier entertainment venue in South Texas, the AT&T Center is the home of the San Antonio Spurs (NBA) and the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The Bexar County-owned arena has also hosted hundreds of concerts and special events since opening in 2002 and underwent a $110+ million renovation in 2015 to enhance the fan experience at all levels. For more information go to ATTCenter.com.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 24.3 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.comESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).  

About ESPN

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




GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ AND GABRIEL “KING” ROSADO TO FACE EACH OTHER IN MEXICO VS. PUERTO RICO CROSSROADS MAIN EVENT FIGHT

LOS ANGELES, CA (February 7, 2023): In a high-stakes crossroads fight, former world champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (44-1, 30 KOs) of Mazatlán, Mexico and Philadelphia’s former world title contender Gabriel “King” Rosado (26-16-1, 15 KOs) will battle in a tough, Mexico vs. Puerto Rico 12-round light heavyweight matchup. The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 18 and will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN beginning at 5:00 p.m. PST/ 8:00 p.m. EST. 

Zurdo Ramirez is returning to the ring hungrier than ever after his valiant effort against Dmitry Bivol last November 2022.

“I’m glad to be back. I had a lot of time to reflect since my last fight and am looking forward to putting on a show against a very-game veteran like Gabe Rosado,” said Zurdo Ramirez. “Just like everyone else, I have goals, dreams and aspirations to be on top and I feel more motivated today than ever. We may get knocked off our path, but my quest for greatness will never stop. I appreciate all the love from my fans and supporters and I promise to be back with vengeance. See you guys March 18th!”

Gabriel Rosado is a dream-spoiler who has dismantled the championship aspirations of a number of elite fighters, most recently a third-round knockout of hot prospect Bektemir Melikuziev. He will be going up a division to face Ramirez. 

“I’m excited to start the year off with a bang! I have a great deal of respect for Zurdo Ramírez. We’re friends, But come March 18, it’s all business,” said Gabriel Rosado. “This is the kind of fight Gabriel Rosado shows up for! I will not let myself or the fans down. Thank you to Golden Boy Promotions and DAZN for the opportunity.”

“This is a dangerous crossroads fight featuring the explosive Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry,” said Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya. “Zurdo will attempt to make a comeback statement against the certified dream-spoiler Gabe Rosado who has derailed the careers of various top fighters.”

Information on the venue and undercard will be shared soon. 

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://emcevents.com/zurdo_rosado.html. Media applications are due EOD Wednesday, March 8, 2023.

###

Zurdo vs. Rosado is a 12-round light heavyweight fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight night will take place on Saturday, March 18 and will be broadcast on DAZN worldwide.

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




BATTLE OF UNDEFEATED PROSPECTS HIGHLIGHTS EXCITING SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION®TRIPLEHEADER FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

NEW YORK – February 7, 2023 – A main event matchup of undefeated fighters highlights the second SHOBOX: The New Generation of 2023 as SHOBOX returnee Ardreal “Bossman” Holmes (12-0, 5 KOs) takes on upset artist Ismael “Maelo” Villarreal (12-0, 8 KOs) in a 10-round super welterweight contest Friday, February 17 at 9 p.m. ET/PT live on SHOWTIME from Stormont Vail Events Center in Topeka, Kan.

The SHOBOX® tripleheader pits six fighters with a combined record of 68-2-1 and 33 knockouts.

In the co-main event, Misael Lopez (14-1, 5 KOs) of Denver, Colo., looks to win his fourth straight bout after suffering his first pro loss on SHOBOX when he takes on Edward “Kid” Vazquez (13-1, 3 KOs) of Fort Worth, Texas, in a 10-round featherweight bout. The telecast opener pits two unbeaten knockout artists in former NCAA Division I college football player Kurt Scoby (10-0, 8 KOs) facing Australia’s John “The Beast” Mannu (7-0-1, 4 KOs) with both fighters putting their unbeaten streaks to the test in an eight-round super lightweight bout.

The card is promoted by Lou DiBella’s DiBella Entertainment.

“This is a really good card coming off last month’s SHOBOX, which was one of the most exciting we’ve had in years,” said Gordon Hall, executive producer for SHOBOX: The New Generation. “Ardreal Holmes put on an impressive performance on SHOBOX a year ago and is one of the top prospects in the super welterweight division. Now he faces his toughest test to date in Villarreal, who is coming off his best win against an undefeated fighter. This is a high stakes fight for both Holmes and Villarreal at this stage of their careers.”

Here is more on each of the three bouts:

Holmes vs. Villarreal – 10-Round Super Welterweight Main Event

In his SHOBOX debut last March against Vernon Brown, Holmes overcame a 28-month layoff scoring a unanimous decision fighting past the eighth round for the first time in his career. As an amateur, Holmes won the 2015 U.S. Nationals and was a silver medalist at the 2013 National Golden Gloves. That same year, he also won a bronze medal at the World Golden Gloves in the 152-pound division. Holmes is the oldest of 11 children and suffered a family tragedy in 2016 when his 20-year-old brother was killed in a drive-by shooting in Flint, Mich.

“I can’t wait for February 17 to headline once again on SHOBOX,” Holmes said. “l am thankful and very excited to be back on the series. I’m looking forward to showing the world I’m ready for all comers and soon to contend for a world title.”

An aggressive and explosive fighter, the 25-year-old Villarreal from the Bronx, N.Y., fights under the Main Events banner. He is a two-time New York Golden Gloves winner with an amateur record of 66-7. In his last fight in July, he upset then-unbeaten LeShawn Rodriguez scoring a sixth-round TKO on the Danny Garcia vs. Jose Benavidez Jr. undercard for his best win to date. He managed to stay active during the pandemic by going back to Dominican Republic to fight on three separate occasions. He recently received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education from Lehman College.

“My goal is to someday be world champion at 154 and 160 pounds,” Villarreal said. “To achieve that, I will defeat whoever tries to get in my way, including Ardreal Holmes. I’m grateful for this great opportunity to headline in front of a large national audience. I know that this is just the beginning of many great things for my career.”

Lopez vs. Vazquez – 10-Round Featherweight Bout

Lopez, 26, will be making his third appearance on SHOBOX and was born in Mexico but now lives in Denver, Colo. In his SHOBOX debut in 2018, Lopez got the better of James Wilkins in a battle of young, previously undefeated super featherweight prospects, tallying a unanimous decision victory. Lopez suffered his first career setback in his last SHOBOX appearance in 2021, when Jordan White scored an impressive sixth-round TKO. Lopez compiled an amateur record of 50-5, winning gold medals at the 2008 Ringside World Championships, the 2010 Colorado State Silver Gloves Tournament, and the Colorado State Golden Gloves Tournament in 2009 and 2015.

“I am looking forward to returning to SHOBOX,” Lopez said. “Vazquez is a talented fighter, but I am determined to impress on February 17. I truly believe this is the year I put a title belt around my waist. There is nothing or no one that is getting in the way of that. It’s strap season.”

Vazquez, 27, fights out of his native Fort Worth, Texas. The lone blemish on his record came one year ago when he lost a controversial split-decision to undefeated former National Golden Gloves champion Raymond Ford. He has rebounded with wins in his last two fights via decision. Vazquez was a standout amateur with an 82-8 record. In the pros, he has noted wins against fighters such as Adan Ochoa (11-1), Irvin Gonzalez (14-2), Jose Argel (8-3) and, in his last fight in October, scored a split-decision win over Viktor Slavinskyi (13-1-1).

“I love this matchup with Lopez, and I accepted it as soon as it was brought to the table because this can be a breakout fight for the both of us,” Vazquez said. “We’re both young, talented, and backed with a lot of momentum right now. The respect is mutual between both of our camps, and I know we’re both hungry for the win. You can expect us to steal the show come February 17.” 

Scoby vs. Mannu – Eight-Round Super Lightweight Bout

Kurt Scoby, 27, is a former high school and NCAA Division I football star who rushed for 2,206 yards and 35 touchdowns in his senior year for Monrovia High School in Duarte, Calif. He signed to play at Fresno State University as a criminal justice major and red-shirted his freshman season. He transferred to Azusa Pacific University in the San Gabriel Valley southeast of Los Angeles where he rushed for 2,703 yards and 16 touchdowns from 2015-2017. When he failed to hook on with an NFL team, Scoby turned to his first love – boxing. After winning the 2019 California Golden Gloves title in the 152-pound novice division, Scoby turned pro in June of 2020 and signed with manager Daniel Gonzalez, fighting three times in Mexico and three more times in the Dominican Republic before notching wins in Atlantic City and Newark, N.J. In June of 2021, Scoby decided to dedicate himself full-time to boxing and at the height of the pandemic bought an $11 one-way economy airline ticket to New York City where he soon walked into the famed Gleason’s Gym and announced his arrival.

“It is truly an honor to be fighting on a SHOBOX card, a legendary platform for young fighters in the sport of boxing,” said Scoby, who was scouted by NFL teams the Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Chargers. “I look forward to sharing the ring with another up-and-coming prospect in John Mannu. Unfortunately for him, he is standing in the way on my path to becoming a real force in the junior welterweight division and a future world champion. May the best man win come February 17.” 

The southpaw, fourth-year pro Mannu, 26, will be fighting for the first time in the United States with his last two wins coming by decision against undefeated fighters in power-punching Jake Daoust in August, and slick Adrian Sosa on the undercard of Haney-Kambosos II in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia in October. Sosa had been Kambosos’ main sparring partner and came in as the heavy favorite. Scoby will be Mannu’s fifth undefeated opponent in just nine fights.

“I am excited to have the opportunity to fight in the U.S. against Kurt Scoby,” Mannu said. “I don’t know a lot about my opponent, except that he is undefeated like me. My record shows that I am not afraid to fight an undefeated fighter abroad. I can also tell you that I am not traveling halfway around the world to lose, so I can promise an epic battle.”

International Boxing Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins will call all the blow-by-blow action for SHOBOX with fellow Hall of Famer Steve Farhood joining the team remotely as the unofficial scorer. Former junior middleweight world champion Raul Marquez and veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT co-host Brian Campbell will serve as ringside analysts. The executive producer of SHOBOX: The New Generation is Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

# # #

For more information visit www.sho.com/sports follow on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, @SHOSports, #SHOBOX, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 87 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Tyson Fury, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 




REY VARGAS TRAINING CAMP QUOTES

SAN ANTONIO – February 7, 2023 – Unbeaten two-division champion Rey Vargas has set his sights on conquering a third weight class as he looks to add a super featherweight crown to his resume when he battles top contender O’Shaquie Foster for the vacant WBC title this Saturday, February 11 live on SHOWTIME from the Alamodome in San Antonio headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.

“This is a challenge that motivates me,” said Vargas. “I know that Foster is coming to dazzle everyone. He’s a good fighter, but it’s my job to make things look easy. On February 11, I’m going to outshine him. He is quick and has a good guard and good movements. You can tell he’s worked hard, but I believe I’m the toughest opponent he’s faced. He won’t be able to get past me.”

Currently the WBC Featherweight World Champion, and a former world champion at super bantamweight, Vargas seeks to add his name to a hallowed list of Mexican champions who have won world titles in three weight classes. The motivation to add his name alongside the likes of Julio Cesar Chavez, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and more, has given Vargas all he needs heading into fight night.

“I don’t want to call this a dream, because I’m about to make it a reality,” said Vargas. “It’s a short list of three-division world champions and I want that to be part of my legacy. I like to do what’s unexpected. Who knows what we’ll do next? All I’m focused on is becoming a three-division champion on February 11.”

In his last fight, which also took place at the Alamodome and in a SHOWTIME main event, Vargas was able to bounce back from a ninth-round knockdown to edge out Mark Magsayo and capture the title. In that difficult moment, Vargas credits his years of boxing foundation for preparing him for anything that’s thrown his way while in a top-level fight.

“When you compete on this stage, a miniscule error can cost you the fight,” said Vargas. “You have to be smart and alert. I was a little careless and I made a mistake. Magsayo caught me with a big blow. Things happen very quickly in those moments, but I told myself that I had a strong opponent who hits hard, but I’m more ‘cabron’, so I got up, fought smart, and got the win. I’m thankful that I had the experience to know how to get out of a situation like that.”

As he continues his ascent up weight classes, Vargas has focused on smartly adding weight while retaining the skills that have made him a two-division champion. In addition to his work with a strength and conditioning coach, he’s trained in the altitude in Otumba, Mexico to make sure he’s at his best.

“I feel very comfortable moving up to 130 pounds,” said Vargas. “Me and my strength and conditioning coach are focusing on nutrition and building more mass. As we go step by step of my regiment, our routine has been more carefully curated. I’m avoiding adding any unnecessary muscle that could slow me down and giving my body what it needs to be at its strongest. I’m lucky to be here in Otumba at a higher altitude where the air is fresher and better for training.”

Vargas is trained by his father Carlos Vargas as the father-son duo looks to continue to add to Vargas’ already impressive resume. Now that he’s fully back after an over two year layoff between 2019 and 2021, Vargas has used his family as motivation to continue his upward trajectory.

“My family and my team continue to inspire me every day to work harder and to build a legacy,” said Vargas. “I’ve had a lot of setbacks and I was mostly stagnant for a few years. I was dealing with an injury, but I’ve recovered. I’m continuing to get inspiration and strength from those around me. I know the road that I’m on and I’m enjoying each and every moment.”

#         #         #

ABOUT VARGAS VS. FOSTER

Vargas vs. Foster will see undefeated two-division world champion Rey Vargas battle top 130-pound contender O’Shaquie Foster for the vacant WBC Super Featherweight World Championship in a showdown that headlines action live on SHOWTIME Saturday, February 11 from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas topping a Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and also features former champion and all-action San Antonio-native Mario “El Azteca” Barrios returning to the ring in a 10-round welterweight duel against Jovanie Santiago that serves as the co-main event. Kicking off the action, hard-hitting unbeaten heavyweights go toe-to-toe as Cuba’s Lenier Peró takes on Ukraine’s Viktor Faust in a 10-round attraction.

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




March 25: Olympic Silver Medalist Richard Torrez Jr. Looks to Continue Knockout Streak against Willie Jake Jr. at Fresno’s Save Mart Center LIVE on ESPN

FRESNO, Calif. (Feb 7. 2023) — Richard Torrez Jr. is not wasting any time.
 
The U.S. Olympic silver medalist, who scored a first-round stoppage victory against James Bryant last Friday at Desert Diamond Arena, will return in a six-rounder against Willie Jake Jr. on Saturday, March 25 at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. Torres-Jake Jr. will open the televised tripleheader headlined by the junior welterweight showdown between Jose Ramirez and Richard “RC” Commey and the minimumweight title unification bout between WBA champion Seniesa Estrada and WBC queen Tina Rupprecht.
 
Ramirez-Commey, Estrada-Rupprecht, and Torrez-Jake will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Tickets starting at $29 are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.
 
Torrez (5-0, 5 KOs), from Tulare, California, made his pro debut at Save Mart Center and thrilled the home region fans with a second-round stoppage over Allen Melson. He scored three additional knockouts in 2022 before making his triumphant 2023 debut versus Bryant. Jake (11-3-2, 3 KOs), from Indianapolis, Indiana, is a seven-year pro who has won three straight fights.
 
Torrez said, “It was a dream come true to fight at Save Mart Center, and I can’t wait to do it again. I’m improving with every fight, and I want to thank Top Rank for keeping me busy and giving me the opportunity to fight at home in the Central Valley.” 




Adrien Broner, Former Four-Weight World Champion, Vows to Overcome Mental Health Issues and Get Career Back on Track

ATLANTA. GA. (February 7, 2023) – Adrien Broner, former four-weight world champion and one of the most talented fighters of his generation, has announced his intention to overcome the mental health issues that have plagued him in recent years and return to the ring with a renewed focus and determination.

Broner will make his highly anticipated return against Michael Williams Jr. on February 25, live on BLK Prime PPV. The two warriors will go head-to-head at The Gateway Center @ College Park, GA, in what promises to be a fierce battle that fans won’t want to miss.

Broner has been open about the challenges he has faced, including anxiety and depression, and how they have affected his personal and professional life. Despite these struggles, he remains determined to get back to the top of the sport and prove to the world that he is still one of the best fighters in the world.

“I’ve been through a lot, but I’m not one to give up easily,” Broner states. “I know I’ve got what it takes to be a champion again, and I’m going to do everything in my power to get there. My mental health is a priority, and I’m taking the necessary steps to get back to my best both inside and outside of the ring.”

Broner has already taken significant steps towards his recovery, including seeking help from mental health professionals and making lifestyle changes that support his wellbeing. He has also been working tirelessly in the gym with new head coach Kevin Cunningham, training with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication.

“I can’t wait to get back out there and show everyone what I’m made of,” Broner said. “Coach Cunningham is a no-nonsense type of trainer who keeps me accountable for everything I do inside and outside the ring. He’s been a big blessing and understands what I’ve been going through. I’ve got a lot to prove, and I’m going to do it with my fists. I’m back and better than ever, and I’m going to make the most of this second chance.”

BLK Prime is dedicated to delivering the best boxing content to its viewers and this main event fight is just the beginning of an exciting year for the platform.

Tickets priced $40, $75, $100, $200 and $400 will be available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com. This event is promoted by Christy Martin Promotions and BLK Prime. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first fight starting at 7:00 p.m. ET.

Broner vs. Williams Jr. will broadcast worldwide via digital Pay-Per-View on BLKPrime.com and PPV.com for $39.99 and is sponsored by The Athlete’s Foot. In addition, the PPV event will be distributed by Integrated Sports Media and be available throughout North America via cable and satellite PPV on iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, DISH, SHAW and ROGERS. The PPV telecast will begin at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT. A live PPV preshow starts at 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT.

#

About The Athlete’s Foot (TAF)

More than just a retail store but branded to be a destination for athletic street style, The Athlete’s Foot is a global retailer of athletic-inspired lifestyle for streetwear, footwear, apparel, and accessories. The Athlete’s Foot sneaker and streetwear chain have 550 stores and e-commerce shops in 30+ countries. Its global headquarters are located in Stans, Switzerland, and in Atlanta, GA in the United States.

About Gateway Center Arena

Gateway Center Arena is a state-of-the-art 5,000-seat venue located in Metro Atlanta’s Southside in College Park, GA, just minutes from downtown Atlanta via MARTA or the highway and a three-minute Skytrain ride from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. With the help of their award-winning staff, the Gateway Center Arena is every guest’s ticket to quality entertainment and events. Line-ups include a variety of professional sporting events, concerts, family events, graduations, conventions and more. As the official home to the WNBA team Atlanta Dream and the Atlanta Hawks G-League team, the College Park SkyHawks, the Gateway Center Arena is designed with sports fans in mind. Event planners have everything they need to bring the experiences they imagine to life in this world-class facility.

For more information, visit www.ArenaGatewayCenter.com, call the Box Office at (404) 857-1245 or email Box Office Manager Marissa Long at mlong@gicc.com. Details will also be shared @GatewayArena on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

About BLK Prime

BLK PRIME is a subscription video-on-demand company that offers multicultural content to a diverse audience worldwide. To learn more about BLK Prime, visit: https://watchnow.blkprime.com/ and to order the pay-per-view, visit https://ppv.blkprime.com/pay-per-view. On social media follow #BronerWilliams, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA




Fire Fist Boxing and Reyes Boxing Announce Partnership

Tampa, FL (February 7, 2023) – Fire Fist Boxing Promotions and Reyes Boxing Promotions are proud to announce they’ll join forces under the name Reyes Fire Fist Boxing Promotions.

Headquartered in Tampa, FL Fire Fist’s stable includes undefeated NABA middleweight champion and WBA #5 ranked contender Connor Coyle, NABA super middleweight champion/WBA #5 and WBC #7 ranked Yamaguchi Falcao and lightweight contender Willian Silva. Fire Fist’s cards have taken place throughout the Tampa Bay region and their fighters have been featured on ESPN, HBO, Bally Sports Network, CBS Sports Network and UFC Fight Pass.

“I’m excited to officially join forces with Reyes Boxing,” said Caliguire, who co-promoted with Reyes on multiple occasions. “Mike Reyes is extremely knowledgeable and has great connections in boxing. He promoted and matchmade his cards up in Massachusetts while also running the Reyes Boxing Club which is very impressive. Our combined resources and ability to promote shows in different parts of the country will greatly benefit the fighters.”

Based in Salem, MA, Reyes Boxing’s provided an opportunity for fighters to stay active while building their fanbase throughout the New England and beyond. Several Reyes’ boxers appeared on major fight cards throughout the US. His stable includes unbeaten prospects Gabriel Morales, Chris Thompson, Joe James, Harry Gigliotti, Rodrigo Correa, Danna Bolano and Sergio Martin Sosa among others.

“Jody and I have built a great relationship the last few years,” said Mike Reyes. “He is a fair, honest person who always has the fighter’s best interest at hand. The most important thing is we’re on the same page when it comes to the boxing business. We’re going to be extremely transparent with everybody involved because that’s the proper way of conducting business.”

Reyes Fire Fist Boxing Promotions’ inaugural card is scheduled for Saturday, April 29 at the Hilton Carillon in St. Petersburg, FL, followed by a show Saturday, June 24 at the Memorial Auditorium in Lowell, MA and back in St. Petersburg Saturday, July 15 at the Marriott Carillon.

Reyes Fire Fist Boxing Promotions will announce additional 2023 dates in the near future.




Sampson Boxing and Paco Presents Sign Mexican Duo, Salcido and Olivo, to Co-Promotional Agreements

Sampson Lewkowicz (Sampson Boxing) and Paco Damian (Paco Presents) proudly announce the signing of a pair of undefeated 23-year-old Mexican teammates from Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, featherweight Christian Olivo Barreda and lightweight Omar “Super” Salcido Gamez, to multi-year, co-promotional contracts.

Trained and managed by Alfredo Leon Lopez, Olivo and Salcido had decorated amateur careers, and both are now confident this move will secure opportunities and big fights in the US with PBC and Showtime.

Olivo (20-0-1, 7 KOs) won the WBC Youth Silver Featherweight Championship by besting then-undefeated (12-0) Adrian Montoya in January 2021. In February 2021, Salcido (16-0, 11 KOs) took out then undefeated Jesus Acosta Ayala (15-0-1) by wide unanimous decision.

Both fighters say the new promotional move bodes well for their boxing fortunes moving forward.

“I am proud to sign with my promoters, who have a long history of providing their fighters with good opportunities,” said Olivo. “I can’t wait to show my skills on a big stage. Thank you to my manager and trainer Alfredo Leon Lopez for all his hard work to make this happen. I will be world champion one day soon.”

“I will be world champion one day,” added Salcido. “I’m so happy to sign with Sampson and Paco and I’m going to fight my heart out to make them proud and become another champion from Mexico.”

“Sampson and Paco are known for their support of Mexican boxers and for helping so many of them become champions,” said Alfredo Leon Lopez. “I’m very happy we could reach a deal for these two young boxers’ futures. I look forward to working with them to achieve greatness.”

A long-time business associate of Lewkowicz and a staple of Mexican boxing, Paco Damian says both of these young fighters will make a big splash in their US debuts.

“These are two young, hungry fighters who want to change their lives for themselves and their families,” said Damian. “Sampson and I will be working to find their US television debuts and begin the climb to the top of their divisions.”

“I want to thank Alfredo Leon Lopez for his hard work to make this deal happen,” said Lewkowicz. Known for his ability to spot unknown talent, Lewkowicz has been flooding the sport with new faces for many years. “These two proud Mexican fighters will continue the proud tradition of fighters from their country and I’m happy to be part of their teams. We will be announcing their US debuts very soon.”
About Sampson Boxing

Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.




JOSHUA VS. FRANKLIN TICKETS GO ON SALE THIS WEEK!

Tickets go on sale this week for former two-time Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua’s highly anticipated comeback against American contender Jermaine Franklin at The O2 in London on Saturday April 1. 

‘AJ’ (24-3, 22 KOs) fights at The O2 for the first time since 2016 as he begins life under the tutelage of new head trainer Derrick James, returning to the scene of his first World Title win over Charles Martin to face another American contender in Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs).

Saginaw’s ‘989 Assassin’ pushed Dillian Whyte all the way in a close points loss at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November and is relishing his shot against one of the biggest names in the sport. Joshua is ready to begin his ascent back to the top of the Heavyweight division after suffering back-to-back losses to pound-for-pound star Oleksandr Usyk in London and Saudi Arabia.

Tickets for Joshua vs. Franklin are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300, £400 and £800 (VIP).

Tickets are available to O2 and Virgin Media customers via PriorityNOW.

Tickets are available via The O2 venue presale and AXS presale from midday on Wednesday February 8.

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Wednesday February 8. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and AXS from midday on Thursday February 9.




CHAMBERLAIN EYES UP BRITISH TITLE

UNBEATEN LIGHTWEIGHT BANGER Mark Chamberlain hopes that a shot at the British title could be on the cards by the end of the year.

The 11-0 man from Waterlooville won the IBF European title last time out with a resounding points success over Marc Vidal at Wembley Arena last July and now, after recovering from a shoulder injury, he is set to go again when he co-headlines at York Hall on Friday February 17 with a defence against Vairo Lenti.

“It is a first defence and I am ready to get the show on the road again,” said the 24-year-old with seven stoppages to his name. “I’ve been in the gym working since the end of November now, training every day and I only had Christmas and Boxing Day off.

“So I’ve been training twice a day waiting for the phone call and now I’ve got the date, I will be ready to go.”

The big-hitting southpaw is fortunate to have an inside track on the 30-year-old Italian he is coming up against because his sometime training partner Alejandro Moya, the soon-to-be European title contender, has already fought Lenti and was able to share a few pointers.

“I have been told he is pretty similar to the last opponent in toughness. One of the other fellas who trains with us, Alex, fought him about four or five fights ago. He put him over but these are tough old boys and he got up and carried on.

“Alex said he is just tough, he is another opponent who has not been stopped. I won’t go in there to try and stop him, but if it comes, it comes,” added Chamberlain, who will have the distinction of being an out-of-towner from the South Coast topping a card in London, which will stand him in good stead for a potential British title challenge in the not too distant future.

“I know and it is why I can’t thank the office enough for believing in me and making it happen. Everything seems to be going well at the minute, obviously I have got the title now and it is the next step towards where I want to be.

“I believe I can get all the way to the top with the right guidance and the right fights at the right time.

“The British title is being fought for by Gwynn and Woodruff again and I would fight the winner of that, no problem. They are good fighters who are established and ain’t got the title for nothing.

“I truly believe that I am up there with those boys, if not better. You’ve got to believe in yourself.

“I know I can’t just say I want to fight for the British next because it is not as easy as that, but with the people I have got around me I am sure they can hopefully make it happen.”

Tickets for the show at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday, 17 February are on sale now available from ticketmaster.co.uk.

THE IBF EUROPEAN lightweight champion Mark Chamberlain 11-0 (7 KOs) and heavyweight contender David Adeleye 10-0 (9 KOs) are both in headline action when Queensberry makes a return to York Hall on Friday, 17 February, live on BT Sport

The Waterlooville puncher will go up against the Italian Vairo Lenti, 10-4-1 (1 KO), the former champion of Italy who has won his last three fights and last fought in July. Adeleye, the Ladbroke Grove heavy, faces a fellow unbeaten fighter in the Ukrainian Dmytro Bezus, 10-0 (5 KOs), who resides in Liga, Latvia.

Stylish super lightweight Henry Turner (9-0, 2 KOs), who won the WBC International Silver title in Dubai in November, will make a first defence of his belt at York Hall over 10 rounds. Streatham super bantam Chris Bourke (10-1, 6 KOs) returns to action in a 6 rounder for the first time since his loss to Marc Leach in a bid for the British title. 

Thrilling super featherweight prospect Royston Barney-Smith (4-0, 2 KOs) will be looking to make it a knockout treble in his fifth four-rounder after scoring quickfire stoppages in his last two fights, while Northampton super welterweight Carl Fail (7-0, 2 KOs) will have his second fight under the Queensberry banner, also over four.

Nottingham light heavyweight Ezra Taylor (4-0, 3 KOs) will have his second six-rounder, with Loughton super bantamweight Adan Mohamed (7-0, 2 KOs) also fighting over six. Penge cruiserweight Aloys Youmbi (2-1, 2 KOs) will both fight in four round contests.

Tickets for the show at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday, 17 February are on sale now available from ticketmaster.co.uk.




Weights from Nashville, Tennessee

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE (February 6, 2023)–Weight’s for Tuesday Night Fights at The Texas Troubadour in Nashville.

Eddie Chambers 226.8 – Corey Williams 305.6

Evan Gubera 199.4 – Demetrius Banks 197.4

Eduardo Aguilar 140.8 – John Hale 140.8

Erick Arellano 209 – Raquan Ashby (will weigh on tomorrow)

Ricardo Wallers (will weigh in tomorrow) vs Jerrell Nettles (will weigh in tomorrow)

*Iegor Plevako will particiapte in an exhibition

Promoter: Lion Heart Promotions

1st Bell 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT

Stream: FITE.TV




“NUCKLE” NELSON OLIVA TRAINING CAMP NOTES

ONTARIO, CA (February 6, 2023) – Before the Super featherweights contender George “El Yuyu” Acosta (13-1, 1 KO) and Marlin Sims (8-1, 4 KOs) do battle, we will see a 6-round super welterweight bout showcasing “Nuckle” Nelson Oliva (5-0, 5 KOs) of Los Angeles, CA, as he takes on fellow undefeated foe, Wayne Boudreaux (2-0, 1 KO), of Marrero, LA. Oliva vs. Boudreaux will take place on Thompson Boxing’s New Blood card.

“New Blood” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, CA on Friday, February 10, 2023. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets priced $50, $75, $100, and $125 and are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900 or online at www.thompsonboxing.com. Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new mobile app downloadable on Apple and Google

Here is what Oliva had to say about his recent training camp, his matchup with Boudreaux, making his 2023 debut, and more. 

On his recent training camp:

“I love the grind. I work hard all-day, and I train harder at night. This camp has been about staying focused on my goal and appreciating the journey through the ranks of the sport. One day I will look back and say ‘man, these were the days’. I live for moments like this and I’m thankful to my team for always having my back. It’s been a nice camp and my trainer Henry Ramierz has me in great shape with good plan in place.”

On his matchup with Wayne Boudreaux:

“He is a good fighter, a good amateur, but he got stopped in Olympic Trials to a good puncher and I know I am a good puncher as well. I think he is talented, but he is also flawed. I don’t have the pedigree, but I believe I have more desire, will, and focus. I want this more than him, and I believe when I hit him, he will slowly stop fighting back.”

On what a win will do for his career:

“The goal is to get into bigger and better fights. Not many fighters would take this fight at this point in their career, but I want to be great. The goal is to improve, constantly get better, and take on opponents who are no worse than my last opponent.”

On fighting on Thompson Card:

“I love it. Thompson has been the best part for my career. Honestly, I hope to fight my whole career with them. I see myself as a blue-collar fighter with a great promotional company that will take me to the highest level of the sport. It is great to fight in Southern California, and even better doing so with Thompson Boxing, how has been keeping me busy.” 

Beto Duran will operate as the blow-by-blow commentator with expert commentary by Doug Fischer. Cynthia Conte will serve as the onsite ringside reporter.

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino, LA’s only luxury casino; 

Thompson Building Materials, Transforming spaces into beautiful places; Omega Products International, The leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Belgard, Paves the way; and Makita, Rule the outdoors.

“New Blood” will stream live for free on the Thompson Boxing Promotions website (www.thompsonboxing.com), as well as their Facebook and YouTube pages.

For more information, and regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com. You can also follow the conversation on social media, please use #ThompsonBoxing.




Emmanuel “Salserito” Rodriguez Takes on Sharone Carter Jr. in Main Event This Saturday, February 11th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City

Atlantic City, New Jersey (February 6, 2023)–Popular bantamweight Emmanuel “Salserito” Rodriguez will take on Sharone Carter Jr. in the eight-round main event that will headline a big night of boxing this Saturday, February 11th at The Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

The card is promoted by R&B Promotions.

Rodriguez, 29 years-old of Quebradillas, Puerto Rico, has a record of 12-0 with seven knockouts. Rodriguez is a six-year professional who has racked up quality wins over Bryan Alvarez (4-0-1), Delvin Gonzalez (4-1-1) and his thrilling first round stoppage over Frank Gonzalez (9-2-1) to capture the WBO Latino Bantamweight Title on August 20th. Rodriguez is coming off a no-contest with Manuel Manzo on November 12, 2022 at The Showboat Hotel.

Carter of Saint Louis, Missouri is 13-5 with three knockouts. The 32 year-old Carter is a nine-year veteran who has standout wins over John Franklin (9-1-1), Ahmed Majed Mahmoud (7-0) and former world champion McJoe Arroyp (18-3). In his last bout, Carter won a unanimous decision over David Michael Paz on June 11, 2022 in Saint Louis.

A packed undercard is being assembled, but already scheduled to appear will be:

In an eight-round welterweight bout, undefeated Tahmir Smalls (9-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Paulo Galdino (12-6, 8 KOs) of Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Smalls has stopped his last three opponents in the opening round, which includes his last outing when he took out Joel Guevara on August 28, 2022 in Camden, New Jersey.

Galdino has some solid victories on his resume as he has defeated Jose Maciel Rodrigues Costa (1-0), Enerson Braz (4-1-1) and Daniel Gonzalez (20-3-1).

In six round bouts:

John Leonardo (9-1-1, 4 KOs) of Englishtown, NJ takes on an opponent to be named in a super bantamweight.

Feargal McCrory (12-0, 5 KOs) of Northern Ireland will take on an opponent to be named in a junior lightweight.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Cali Box of Brick, NJ will make his pro debut against Tyler Jacques (0-5-1) of Burlington, Vermont in a super middleweight fight.

Justin Figueroa (2-0, 2 KOs) of Atlantic City, NJ squares off with Rahiem Cooke (1-3) of Philadelphia in a junior middleweight tilt.

In a battle of pro debuting lightweights, Miguel Garcia of Atlantic City will take on Christian Castro of Red Bank, NJ

Francisco Rodriguez of Atlantic City takes on Kyle Massoth (0-3) of Irvington, NJ in a junior lightweight contest.

John Vallejo (1-0, 1 KO) of Newark, NJ takes on Angelo Thompson (0-5) of Irvington, NJ in a welterweight fight.

Pro debuting Daniel Bean fights Terrick Maven (0-1) of Vineland, NJ in a heavyweight battle.

Sir Robert Lee Ellenburg of Viacaville, California makes his pro debut against John Birdsong (0-1) of Detroit in a lightweight bout.

Tickets are $200, $155, $80 and $60 and can be purchased at the following link:

https://randbpromo.ticketleap.com/acfn2/dates/Feb-11-2023_at_0530PM




PATTINSON VS. JENKINS HEADLINES MARCH 18 NXTGEN CARD IN NEWCASTLE

Matchroom’s first NXTGEN card of the year at the Utilita Arena Newcastle on Saturday March 18 features some of the very best prospects in the North East and beyond looking to take the next steps in their promising careers, live worldwide on DAZN.

Former Team GB standout Cyrus Pattinson (5-0, 3 KOs) faces his toughest test so far in the professional ranks against Wales’ former British Welterweight Champion Chris Jenkins (23-6-3, 8 KOs) – with the pair clashing for the vacant WBA International Title. 

Alnwick’s Pattinson hasn’t put a foot wrong since turning over in Newcastle back in June 2021, winning all five of his contests – with three coming by way of knockout – and the 28-year-old southpaw picked up the vacant IBO Continental Title last time out in Nottingham.

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist turned Welterweight prospect Pat McCormack (3-0, 2 KOs) looks to wow his home crowd against Italy’s Dario Socci (15-7-2, 6 KOs) in his first scheduled eight-round contest. 

The Ben Davison-trained talent put pen to paper on a long-term promotional deal with Eddie Hearn last October and made a winning start to life under the Matchroom banner by outpointing Christian Nicolas Andino at Wembley’s OVO Arena in November. 

Birmingham Heavyweight Solomon Dacres (5-0,1 KO) gets the opportunity to fight for his first title in the paid ranks as he collides with Newcastle’s unbeaten Robert Ismay (11-0, 4 KOs) for the vacant English Heavyweight Title.

Leeds Super-Bantamweight contender Hopey Price (9-0, 3 KOs) fights for his second pro title as he continues his march up the 122lbs ladder, taking on Frenchman Thomas Masson (20-5-1, 7 KOs) for the vacant WBA Continental Title. 

West Rainton’s former Team GB Podium Squad member Mark Dickinson (4-0, 1 KOs) faces Bury’s Ben Ridings (5-3) over eight rounds at Middleweight and Gateshead Lightweight Calum French (3-0, 1 KO) fights Seaham’s Jordan Ellison (14-44-3, 1 KO) over eight rounds in a North East derby. 

Elsewhere on the card there’s action for Leicester Super-Bantamweight debutant Muhammad Ali, Darlington Super-Lightweight Ben Marksby (6-0), Eltham Super-Flyweight prospect Maiseyrose Courtney (1-0) and Sunderland Super-Featherweight Adam Reichard (1-0).

“I’m absolutely buzzing to be fighting in Newcastle on March 18,” said Pattinson. “2023 is a huge year for me and to be kicking it off by fighting in front of a home crowd in unreal. Nobody creates an atmosphere like the Geordies and I’m determined to put on a show for them in what is the biggest fight of my career so far. I cannot wait.”

“A win that I’m more than capable of come March 18 would most definitely put me back in the mix,” said Jenkins. “Winning a title means I have value in the sport and I’ll move on and fight who ever wants it. I’m an old school fighter, I’ll fight anyone!

“I’m expecting Cyrus to come out of the blocks like he always does and I’ll be ready for him. He looks a good come forward fighter, he does most things well but I’ve seen a few flaws in his fighting that I think I can use in the fight.”

“It’s great to be back up in Newcastle for our very first NXTGEN card of the year starring some of the brightest talents in the North East and beyond,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “We’ve enjoyed some brilliant nights in Newcastle over the years with the likes of Lewis Ritson and I can see Tyneside turning into a real hotbed of boxing talent with the next wave of headliners coming through. 

“Pat McCormack is one of the very best amateurs we’ve seen on these shores in recent times and I’m excited for a busy year with him. Cyrus Pattinson gets the chance to headline in front of home crowd as he takes a big step up against the experienced Chris Jenkins and there’s title action for Solomon Dacres and Hopey Price plus much more. Catch it all live around the world on DAZN.”

Tickets for Pattinson vs. Jenkins are priced £40, £60, £100 and £150 (VIP).

Are you a member of Utilita Arena Newcastle’s web club? Enjoy a presale with them at 10am on Thursday February 9.

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Thursday February 9. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and the Utilita Arena Newcastle from midday on Friday February 10.




CALLUM SMITH FACES UNBEATEN POLE PAWEL STEPIEN ON MARCH 11 IN LIVERPOOL

Callum Smith fights in Liverpool for the first time since 2019 when he faces undefeated world-ranked Pole Pawel Stepien at the top of a stacked card at the M&S Bank Arena on Saturday March 11 that features Liam Paro vs. Robbie Davies Jr and Diego Pacheco vs. Jack Cullen, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand). 

The WBC’s No.1 ranked Light-Heavyweight Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) returns home for a must-win clash with the IBF’s No.7 ranked 175-pounder Stepien (18-0-1, 12KOs) as he looks to secure a mouth-watering showdown with unified WBC, WBO and IBF ruler Artur Beterbiev later in the year.

Former WBA and Ring Magazine Super-Middleweight World Champion ‘Mundo’ has won both of his fights at Light-Heavyweight in brutal fashion following a move up in weight after his points loss to pound-for-pound superstar Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez at the Almodome in San Antonio, USA back in December 2020.

The 32-year-old Liverpudlian destroyed Lenin Castillo with a sickening second round KO to return to winning ways on the undercard of the first meeting between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua at the home of Tottenham Hotspur in September 2021 before taking out France’s Mathieu Bauderlique in four rounds just under a year later in Saudi Arabia. 

Szczecin’s Stepien remains unbeaten since joining the professional ranks in December 2015, with the only blemish on his 19-fight career being a draw with Marek Matyja in 2019, and the 32-year-old is ranked in the world’s top 15 with the WBO, IBF and WBA – picking up the Polish and IBF Intercontinental Light-Heavyweight Titles in 2019 and 2021 respectively. 

A stacked undercard sees Australia’s WBO Global Super-Lightweight Champion Liam Paro (23-0, 14 KOs) put his title on the line against local favourite Robbie Davies Jr (23-3, 15 KOs) following his sensational first-round KO win over fellow Aussie Brock Jarvis at the South Bank Piazza in South Brisbane last October.

One of the hottest prospects in American boxing Diego Pacheco (17-0, 14 KOs) looks to impress on his first appearance in the UK, stepping-up against Little Lever’s Jack Cullen (21-3-1, 9 KOs) in what promises to be an all-action battle for the WBO International Super-Middleweight Title. 

Romford Heavyweight sensation Johnny Fisher (7-0, 6 KOs) takes ‘The Romford Bull’ Army to Liverpool for the first time as he faces Italy’s Alfonso Damiani (6-2, 2 KOs) over eight rounds and local Light-Heavyweight Thomas Whittaker-Hart (7-1, 3 KOs) aims to avenge his first loss against Darewn’s Mickey Ellison (14-4, 5 KOs) in a rematch for the Central Area Title. 

Warrington Lightweight talent Rhiannon Dixon (7-0) squares off with Wombourne’s Vicky Wilkinson (5-0-1) for the Commonwealth Title and Oldham’s Aqib Fiaz (10-0) takes on Yeovil’s Dean Dodge (9-2-1, 3 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Featherweight, plus there’s action for Hyde’s Campbell Hatton (9-0, 3 KOs), Chester Middleweight Paddy Lacey (7-0, 1 KO) and Billericay Middleweight George Liddard (1-0, 1 KO).

“Pawel Stepien is just what I need going into the Artur Beterbiev fight,” said Smith. “He hasn’t ever tasted defeat and he’s ranked in the top 15 by 3 governing bodies. He is certainly no walkover and I know I can’t afford to make any mistakes. The prize waiting for me should I win means you’ll be seeing the best from me on March 11.”

“We always love returning to Liverpool for one of the best atmospheres in the UK, and we’ve got a stacked card from top to bottom for you all on March 11, said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Callum Smith can’t afford any slip-ups against Pawel Stepien – he’s next in line to face unified World Champion Artur Beterbiev and that’s a fight I really fancy him in if he gets past the unbeaten Pole. 

“We’re spoilt for choice with this cracking undercard, Liam Paro looked sensational last time out and Robbie Davies Jr finally gets the big fight he’s been craving. Diego Pacheco against Jack Cullen can only be fireworks and ‘The Romford Bull’ Army are going to be bringing all the noise for Johnny Fisher! Thomas Whittaker-Hart can’t afford another loss this early in his career and there’s so much more on offer. Watch it all live around the world on DAZN.”

Tickets for Smith vs. Stepien are priced £40, £60, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP).

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Tuesday February 7. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and the M&S Bank Arena from midday on Wednesday February 8.




ANTHONY JOSHUA RETURNS HOME TO FIGHT JERMAINE FRANKLIN ON APRIL 1

Former two-time unified Heavyweight Champion of the World Anthony Joshua (24-3, 22 KOs) fights at The O2 in London for the first time since 2016 as he begins life under the tutelage of new head trainer Derrick James. ‘AJ’ returns to the scene of his first World Title win over Charles Martin to face another American contender in Jermain Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs). Saginaw’s ‘989 Assassin’ pushed Dillian Whyte all the way in a close points loss at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November and is relishing his shot against one of the biggest names in the sport. British megastar Joshua is ready to begin his ascent back to the top of the Heavyweight division after suffering back-to-back losses to pound-for-pound great Oleksandr Usyk in London and Saudi Arabia.

This fight will be the first in Joshua’s new five-year partnership with DAZN to be streamed live, exclusive and worldwide on the digital sports entertainment platform, which is fast becoming the undisputed Global Home of Boxing. Joshua vs. Franklin will be included in the £9.99 per month DAZN saver subscription, making it the first fight in over eight years that fans do not need to pay an additional pay-per-view fee to watch Joshua. Beyond the UK, DAZN is available in over 200 territories. Simple to download as an app on Smart TVs, games consoles, tablets and mobiles, and subscribed to with one-click, being on DAZN will make this the most accessible Joshua fight ever.

“I’m looking forward to stepping back into the ring on April 1 at The O2 in London.” said Joshua. “Mentally and physically I feel ready. I want to put on a show and impress my coach as he has high standards. Franklin has a good style and a great attitude, which he has shown in recent fights. This will be my first fight broadcast on DAZN in the UK and it will be globally available on the platform. I want to thank DAZN for supporting both myself and the sport of boxing as a whole. I would also like to thank the team at 258 and Matchroom Boxing.”

“I’m ready to show the world why it’s time for me to take my place at the top of the Heavyweight division,” said Franklin. “Joshua had his time. It’s my time to shock the world! This fight isn’t going to the judge’s card. I will have win number 22 come April 1. That ain’t no April Fool’s joke.”

Alongside Joshua vs. Franklin, Matchroom and DAZN have announced its largest ever schedule of content for the first half of 2023 that will see even more iconic and emerging boxing talent, including five other premium fights, on its platform alongside an ever-greater roster of other sporting entertainment.

The following shows will be shown live and exclusive on DAZN with further fights and full undercard details to be announced shortly:

Saturday, February 18: Leigh Wood vs. Mauricio Lara
Hometown hero Leigh Wood (26-2, 16 KOs) puts his WBA Featherweight World Title on the line against big-punching Mexican Mauricio Lara (25-2-1, 18 KOs) as Matchroom’s 2023 schedule in the UK begins with a bang. ‘Leigh-thal’ memorably stopped Michael Conlan in the 12th and final round of his epic first defence of the WBA 126lbs title back in March 2022, knocking the Irishman out of the ring in brutal fashion to end their Fight of the Year stunner. ‘Bronco’ has been waiting patiently for his shot at Wood after their eagerly anticipated September 24 fight was postponed following a torn bicep suffered by Wood in sparring, but the Featherweight KO artist finally gets his dream World Title opportunity this month in what promises to be an epic battle between two knockout artists.

Saturday, March 11: Callum Smith vs. Pawel Stepien
The WBC’s No.1 ranked Light-Heavyweight contender Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) returns home to face undefeated Pole Pawel Stepien (18-0-1, 12 KOs) at the M&S Bank Arena as he looks to secure a showdown with unified WBC, WBO and IBF ruler Artur Beterbiev later in the year. A stacked undercard sees Australia’s WBO Global Super-Lightweight Champion Liam Paro (23-0, 14 KOs) put his title on the line against local favourite Robbie Davies Jr (23-3, 15 KOs) following his sensational first-round KO win over fellow Aussie Brock Jarvis last October. One of the hottest prospects in America Diego Pacheco (17-0, 14 KOs) fights in the UK for the first time as faces another step up against Little Lever’s all-action Super-Middleweight Jack Cullen (21-3-1, 9 KOs). Full undercard details to follow.

Saturday, March 18: Cyrus Pattinson vs. Chris Jenkins
Matchroom’s first NXTGEN card of the year at the Utilita Arena Newcastle features some of the very best prospects in the North East looking to take the next steps in their promising careers. Former Team GB standout Cyrus Pattinson (5-0, 3 KOs) faces his toughest test so far in the professional ranks against Wales’ former British Welterweight Champion Chris Jenkins (23-6-3, 8 KOs) while Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist turned Welterweight prospect Pat McCormack (3-0, 2 KOs) looks to wow his home crowd against Italy’s Dario Socci (15-7-2, 6 KOs) in his first scheduled eight-round contest. Also on the card, Birmingham’s Solomon Dacres (5-0, 1 KO) squares off with Newcastle’s Robert Ismay (11-0, 4 KOs) for the English Heavyweight Title.

Saturday, April 8: Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez vs. Cristian Gonzalez
Boxing’s youngest World Champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez (17-0, 11 KOs) attempts to become a two-weight ruler when he clashes with Cristian ‘El Chicharito’ Gonzalez (15-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBO 112lbs at the Boeing Center at Tech Port, San Antonio. The 23-year-old sensation from San Antonio, Texas enjoyed a stellar 2022, becoming boxing’s youngest active World Champion in February, stepping in late to meet Carlos Cuadras for the vacant WBC Super-Flyweight strap in Phoenix and then putting on a stunning display in his first defence, stopping Thai star Srisaket Sor Rungvisai on his San Antonio home turf in June inside eight rounds. He was named the Fighter of the Year by ESPN in their midyear awards for 2022 before outpointing Israel Gonzalez on the ‘Canelo’ vs. ‘GGG’ undercard in September.

Saturday, April 22: Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov vs. Joe Cordina
Unbeaten Welshman Joe Cordina (15-0, 9 KOs) attempts to win his IBF Super-Featherweight World Title back against current belt-holder Shavkatdzhon Rakhmiov (17-0-1, 14 KOs) at the Cardiff International Arena. ‘The Welsh Wizard’ captured the famous red and gold belt with a stunning one-punch knockout of Japan’s Kenichi Ogawa on a memorable night at the arena last June. Cordina was scheduled to make the first defence of his World Title against Rakhimov in Abu Dhabi last November but suffered a hand injury that required surgery and was subsequently stripped of his title by the IBF. Rakhimov won the vacant title by stopping Manchester’s Zelfa Barrett in nine rounds on the undercard of Dmitry Bivol vs. Gilberto Ramirez.

Saturday, May 20: Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2
Irish legend Katie Taylor (22-0, 6 KOs) fights in Ireland for the first time in her professional career, putting her Undisputed Lightweight World Title on the line once more against Puerto Rican star Amanda Serrano (44-2-1, 30 KOs) in an unmissable rematch. Taylor cemented herself as the greatest female fighter on the planet by edging out Serrano in an epic fight for the ages on an iconic night at a sold-out Madison Square Garden in New York last April. The global superstar retained her belts after a Fight of the Year contender with multi-division World Champion Serrano – the first women’s boxing bout to headline the famous MSG in its 140-year history, attracting an unprecedented audience of 1.5 million tuning in globally on DAZN.

Alongside this jampacked schedule of boxing, in the last 12 months DAZN has added 75 media properties to its UK offering, giving – in particular – combat sports fans access to the widest range of live and on demand content. The Professional Fighters League (PFL) partnered with DAZN to launch PFL Europe, the inaugural event will be held in Newcastle on 25 March and broadcast globally on DAZN.

In the UK DAZN is available as a Monthly Saver (x12) at £9.99, an Annual Super Saver priced at £99.99 and a Flexible Monthly Pass priced at £19.99.

How to watch DAZN

Watching on DAZN is simple and easy.
Go to the app store on your chosen device, search for and download the DAZN app.
Create an account, choose a plan and start watching anywhere – on your phone, tablet, smart TV and gaming consoles.
You can log in to multiple devices and enjoy top sporting content anywhere.
“What an incredible year Matchroom and DAZN have in store for fight fans around the world – and this is just the beginning,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “The UK’s biggest boxing star Anthony Joshua returns to our screens on April 1 as he looks to reclaim his spot as the number one Heavyweight on the plant. ‘AJ’ has reset and refocused and he is on a mission to defy his critics as he kicks off his exciting new partnership with DAZN. Modern legends Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano run it back for all of the marbles at Lightweight in what will be one of the most iconic sporting events that Ireland has ever seen on May 20 in Dublin. Their first meeting at MSG last year was one of the very best night’s I’ve experienced in boxing and the rematch promises to be even bigger and better.

“Callum Smith is within touching distance of a shot at unified Light-Heavyweight ruler Artur Beterbiev and can’t avoid any slip-ups against Pawel Stepien on his Liverpool homecoming on March 11 and boxing’s youngest World Champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez attempts to create even more history on April 8 when he goes for gold at 112lbs against Cristian Gonzalez. ‘The Welsh Wizard’ Joe Cordina attempts to recapture his IBF Super-Featherweight World Title against Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov in Cardiff on April 22 and the young guns are out to impress in our first NXTGEN event of the year in Newcastle on March 18 – not forgetting the small matter of Leigh Wood vs. Mauricio Lara in just under two weeks’ time in Nottingham. It is without a doubt the best schedule in boxing and there’s still so much more to come. Watch it all live on DAZN.”

“This is the most eagerly anticipated fight of Anthony Joshua’s career, and, at DAZN, we are delighted to deliver it to fans in the UK and around the world as part of their monthly subscription, making it the most accessible ‘AJ’ fight in a decade”, DAZN CEO Shay Segev said. “Beyond our unrivalled boxing schedule, we are committed to building our library of sports content the UK. Our tie-up with KSI’s Misfits to create X Series and joint venture with Professional Fighters League to launch PFL Europe are just two examples of what we will do to deliver top sports content to DAZN subscribers.”

“We have worked with Anthony Joshua for five years, and we are incredibly excited to be kicking off our new UK relationship with him on April 1,” said Joseph Markowski, CEO North America, DAZN Group. “Being ringside for Taylor vs. Serrano at a sold-out MSG was one of the great sporting moments of my life; what an incredible atmosphere and fight. Alongside this blockbuster, the schedule we have curated so far features some of our best talent, Jesse Rodriguez, Callum Smith and Joe Cordina. All live and exclusive on DAZN.”

“This is the start of a hugely important phase for ‘AJ’ and it is exciting to be kicking it off exclusively on DAZN and at The O2 in London, a place he has had many memorable nights,” said 258 Managing Director Freddie Cunningham.

About Matchroom Boxing
Matchroom Boxing is the world’s leading boxing promotional outfit putting on major stadium and arena shows across the globe. Headed up by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn, Matchroom has been among the world leaders in major boxing promotion and production for over a quarter of a century since its launch in 1987. With an unrivalled stable of world-class fighters, Matchroom’s unique expertise in promotion, staging and television productions cements its position as the No.1 promoter in the sport.

About DAZN Group
DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK.? Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, JLeague, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.? DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F.?DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans.??

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

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles. ?DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including Playstation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and find the app on their iPhone, iPad, android and mobile.

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




Mass. Welterweight Champion Denzel Whitley defends title vs. challenger Kenny Larson

QUINCY, Mass. (February 6, 2023) – In a rare battle between unbeaten Bay Staters, Massachusetts State Welterweight Champion Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (10-0, 6 KOs) will make his first title defense on March11th against Kenny Larson (6-0, 5 KOs) in the 8-round main event on the “Springfield Championship Boxing 2” card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP) at MassMutural Center in Springfield, Massachusetts.

All of the action will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com.

“We are excited to be back in Springfield in 2023,” GCP President Chris Traietti said. “Each show there is going to be bigger, better and more action-packed than the previous show. On March 11th, fans are going to see the future of Massachusetts boxing.”

The 24-year-old Whitley, of Holyoke (MA), is trained by former pro fighters and brothers, Denzel’s father Derrick and Uncle Darrin. Whitley captured the Mass. 147-pound division belt last November 19th at MassMutual Center, when he won an 8-round majority decision over Kris Jacobs (5-2-1, 2 KOs).

Larson, 33, fights out of Salem (MA). His took a 6-round majority decision from Ryan Thomas Clark (2-2, 1 KO) last November 23rd in Windham, New Hampshire. A 2016 New England Golden Gloves champion in the novice division, Lawson was a 3-time Central New England Golden Gloves runner-up.

Also schedule to be in action are unbeaten boxers such as Dominican welterweight Carlos Castillo (6-0, 4 KOs), of Holyoke; Puerto Rican super lightweight Ian “Dinamite” Garcia (2-0-1, 1 KO), of Springfield; Springfield super featherweight Isaiah “Baby Warrior” Cruz (5-0, 3 KOs), and Springfield super featherweight Carlos Gonzalez (3-0, 3 KOs).

Bouts subject to change.

Tickets range between $203.00 and $48.00 and are available to purchase online at https://massmutualcenter.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetEventInfo?ticketCode=GS%3AMMC%3AMMC22%3AEX031123%3A&linkID=mmc&shopperContext=&pc=&caller=&appCode=&groupCode=&cgc=&dataAccId=224&locale=en_US&siteId=ev_mmc or from any of the participating boxers.

Doors open at 6 p.m. ET, first bout at 7 p.m. ET.




MAIN EVENTS SIGNS UNDEFEATED SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT PROSPECT SHAWN “THE AMAZING” McCALMAN

otowa, NJ, February 4, 2023  – –  Main Events announced today that they have signed undefeated super middleweight Shawn “The Amazing” McCalman to a promotional contract. McCalman, (12-0, 6 KOs), was born and raised in Denver and now resides in Aurora, Colorado, where he trains at A1 Boxing. 

McCalman had an amateur record of 65-7, winning state and regional Golden Gloves three times. He made his professional debut on September 22, 2018, winning by first round knockout. McCalman won the American Boxing Federation American West Super Middleweight title with a unanimous decision win over highly touted Vaughn Alexander on July 17, 2021. He also has a unanimous decision win over then undefeated Marquis Moore on March 5, 2022.

“I’m very excited to start this chapter of my career with the support of Main Events,” said McCalman. “They’re one of the most prestigious and respected companies in the history of boxing and have promoted some of the biggest names in the sport. I look forward to creating a legendary legacy of my own with their support. I’d like to thank my management team Fighters First for making this opportunity possible. I’m training harder & smarter than ever. It’s time to show the world who ‘The Amazing’ Shawn McCalman is.”

Jolene Mizzone – President, Fighters First Management stated, “I couldn’t be happier to be working with Kathy Duva and Joseph Rotonda again, only on the other side of the table. I know with Main Events in our corner Shawn will become a World Champion.” 

“We are very excited about signing undefeated Super Middleweight prospect Shawn McCalman,” said Main Events CEO Kathy Duva. “He is an exciting fighter and has made it clear that he is willing to fight anyone to reach his goal of becoming a world champion. He is extremely talented and is just entering the prime of his career now. The super middleweight division has been overlooked for many years now, but it has suddenly come to life and has become one of hottest divisions in the sport. I do not think it will be long before people start mentioning his name as one of the newest top contenders in this division.”

“We are also thrilled to be back in business with his manager Jolene Mizzone of Fighters First Management,” said Main Events Director of Operations Joe Rotonda. “We are obviously well aware of what Jolene is capable of and the wealth of knowledge that she brings to the table.”

Shawn began boxing at eighteen, but prior to that competed in martial arts, winning numerous national tournaments while practicing taekwondo. Shawn was attending Colorado State University at Pueblo to play football but left before he began. He played quarterback and safety at Far Northeast High School in Denver. “I dropped out of college and decided I wanted to pursue something new. Boxing was something I always loved and had an admiration for but never did it while growing up. Now that I was done with football, it was time to make that transition.” Noting that no family or friends of Shawn’s had ever boxed.

Follow Shan McCalman at  Instagram FacebookTwitter

Follow Main Events at www.Mainevents.com  Facebook Twitter Instagram




The King of Brick City: Shakur Stevenson Returns Home April 8 Against Shuichiro Yoshino in Lightweight Main Event at Newark’s Prudential Center LIVE on ESPN

NEWARK, N.J. (Feb. 4, 2023) — The pound-for-pound fighting pride of “Brick City” has packed the house before, and he is set to do it again.
 
Undefeated former two-weight world champion Shakur Stevenson will take on Japanese puncher Shuichiro Yoshino in a 12-round WBC lightweight title eliminator Saturday, April 8, at Prudential Center in his hometown of Newark, New Jersey.
 
In the co-feature, heavyweight knockout artist Jared The Real Big Baby” Anderson aims for another stoppage in a 10-rounder against an opponent to be named. And, in the 10-round televised opener, rising lightweight and U.S. Olympic silver medalist Keyshawn Davis fights a to-be-determined foe.
 
Stevenson-Yoshino and the returns of Anderson and Davis will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN, Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, tickets starting at $55 go on sale Friday, Feb. 10 at 1 p.m. ET and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com.
 
“Shakur Stevenson is one of the most gifted fighters I’ve had the pleasure of promoting, and I look forward to seeing him once again fight in front of his incredible hometown fans in Newark,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Yoshino is a tough fighter and won’t be deterred by the hostile crowd. Jared Anderson and Keyshawn Davis are two of the sport’s emerging superstars, and I can’t wait to see them back in the ring.”
 
“Following the overwhelming success of Shakur Stevenson’s return to Newark in September, we are thrilled to build on that momentum with another stacked Top Rank boxing card on Saturday, April 8th,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “As Shakur continues to rise the pound-for-pound rankings, we take great pride in being his home. We all witnessed just how much Shakur means to the City of Newark a few months ago, as the event sold the most tickets to a boxing event in our venue’s 15-year history. Alongside our world-class partners at Top Rank and ESPN, we look forward to raising the bar for boxing fans not only in New Jersey but across the globe.”
 
Stevenson (19-0, 9 KOs), a former featherweight and junior lightweight world champion, returns home following last September’s triumph against Robson Conceição. The stubborn Conceição lasted the distance, but Stevenson dominated in front of 10,107 fans at Prudential Center. It was the first time Stevenson had fought at Prudential Center since July 2019 and established the venue as one of the sport’s most raucous hometown crowds. Stevenson won the WBO junior lightweight title with a 10th-round knockout over Jamel Herring in October 2021, then unified the division with a stirring 12-round display over WBC king Oscar Valdez the following April. Those victories propelled Stevenson, a 2016 U.S. Olympic silver medalist, to the top 10 of most pound-for-pound lists. He now sets his sights on a third weight class and a spot atop the pound-for-pound throne.
 
“I am taking over the lightweight division and my run will start on April 8 in Newark. Shuichiro Yoshino is an undefeated fighter who was willing to step up and fight me when so many fighters were scared,” Stevenson said. “My last fight at the Prudential Center was just the start of what I’m building in Jersey. We are going to pack the Prudential Center again and show the world who the future of boxing really is.”
 
Yoshino (16-0, 12 KOs), the WBC’s No. 5 contender, is a former Japanese lightweight champion who compiled a 104-20 amateur record. After seven defenses of his Japanese title, Yoshino rose in the rankings following a banner 2022. Last April, he won a bloody technical decision over former world champion Masayuki Ito after Ito suffered a cut over his left eye. He followed up the Ito triumph in November with a sixth-round stoppage over Masayoshi Nakatani, best known to fans for his stands against Teofimo Lopez and Vasiliy Lomachenko. Yoshino has never fought away from Japan and hopes to spoil Stevenson’s homecoming.
 
“I am very honored to be fighting in the U.S. for the first time. I’m extremely focused and motivated,” Yoshino said. “I’m looking forward to fighting the great two-division champion, Shakur Stevenson, in his hometown of Newark. I’ll be training hard leading up to the fight and look forward to showing the fans an exciting victory!”
 
Anderson (13-0, 13 KOs), a 23-year-old from Toledo, Ohio, has notched five consecutive second-round stoppages, including a demolition of the normally durable Jerry Forrest last December. Anderson received international headlines for his work as a sparring partner of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, but he is now firmly established as a potential heavyweight champion.
 
Davis (7-0, 5 KOs), from Norfolk, Virginia, went to the Tokyo Olympics as a 3-0 professional and returned home with a silver medal and a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. He is 4-0 since signing with the promotional powerhouse in late 2021, including three stoppage victories and last December’s shutout over former world title challenger Juan Carlos Burgos. Davis shined at Prudential Center last September, stopping Omar Tienda in five rounds.
 
Undercard action — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ — includes undefeated Polish heavyweight prospect Damian Knyba (10-0, 6 KOs) in an eight-rounder. Knyba signed a long-term contract with Top Rank following his second-round knockout over Emilio Salas on the Teofimo Lopez-Sandor Martin bill in December. 
 
Featherweight phenom Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (6-0, 3 KOs), the latest uber-talent from Brownsville, Brooklyn, will fight in a six-rounder against an opponent to be named. Carrington fought on the Stevenson-Conceição bill and blanked Jose Argel over six rounds.
 
ABOUT PRUDENTIAL CENTER
Prudential Center is the world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 175 concerts, family shows and special events each year. The arena is also home to the GRAMMY Museum Experience Prudential Center, which opened its doors to the public in October 2017. The 8,200-square-foot experience marks the first GRAMMY Museum outpost on the East Coast and features a dynamic combination of educational programming and interactive permanent and traveling exhibits, including a spotlight on legendary GRAMMY winners from New Jersey. Ranked in the Top 8 nationally by Pollstar, Billboard and Venues Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and hosts over 2 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit PruCenter.com and follow the arena on FacebookTwitter and Instagram @PruCenter. Prudential Center is a Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment property.




Split-T Management’s John Bauza Takes on Richardson Hitchins in Grudge Match at The Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK (FEBRUARY 4, 2023)–TONIGHT at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, undefeated super lightweight John Bauza takes on fellow undefeated Richardson Hitchins in a 10-round bout for the IBF North American Super Lightweight Title.

Bauza is managed by Split-T Management.

The bout can be seen Live on DAZN at 8 PM ET.

To say that the lead-up to the fight has been contentious is an understatement.

The former sparring partners engaged in a 20-minute heated debate at Thursday’s press conference that was filled with confident bold predictions and profane smack talk.

“First of all, I want to say thank you for this opportunity to be here. All I have to say is that I work hard. There was a lot of back and forth, but we got the fight, and we’re ready,” said Bauza. “We’re ready for everybody. We already proved that in the amateurs. He [Hitchins] knows who I am; I sparred him before. I come from the same group as them, all of them. They know who I am too, so we’re ready for everybody. I’m ready for it.”

Bauza of North Bergen, New Jersey via Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico is 17-0 with seven knockouts. The 24 year-old Bauza is a seven year-pro who has defeated the likes of Larry Fryers (11-2), Christian Edwards (12-2), Michael Williams Jr. (19-0) and his last bout when he took an eight-round unanimous decision over Tony Luis (29-4) on March 19, 2022 at Madison Square Garden.

Hitchins of New York is 15-0 with seven knockouts. The 25 year-old Hitchins is a six-year pro and has defeated Mario Alberto Perez Navarro (1-0, Alejandro Munera (4-1-3), Kevin Johnson (7-1), Nicholas DeLomba (16-2), former world champion Argenis Mendez (25-5-3), Malik Hawkins (18-1) and his last bout when he stopped Yomar Alamo (20-1-1) on November 12, 2022 in Cleveland.

Bauza was 139 lbs. at Friday’s weigh in. Hitchins was 139.6 lbs.




Tito Mercado Lands New Opponent has Big Plans to be Boxing’s Next Superstar

POMONA, CA (February 3, 2023) – Undefeated NABA super lightweight champion, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (8-0, 8 KOs), has a new opponent for this Saturday, February 4, as he will now face Jose Angulo (14-4, 7 KOs), of Ecuador. The fight will still take place at the LumColor Center in Ontario, CA, with RED Boxing Promotions operating as the promoter, as Hank Lundy will no longer serve as Mercado’s opponent.

“I am glad Jose Angulo took the fight on short notice and I appreciate him stepping up,” said Mercado, the Olympic Trials Silver Medalist in 2020. “Angulo is a tough opponent, but my plan is to end this fight early and continue my knockout streak.”

Born in Pomona, CA, Tito has quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. With his lightning-fast combinations, explosive power, Mercado is already making noise as one of the sport’s most exciting prospects.

Now, with a string of impressive wins under his belt, Tito is looking to take the next step and become the face of boxing. He believes that his story of perseverance and determination will inspire others to pursue their own dreams, no matter the odds.

Mercado has overcome numerous obstacles to reach the top of his game. Despite growing up in an underserved community, he never lost sight of his dreams, honing his skills through countless hours of hard work and dedication.

“I have big plans to be Southern California’s the next superstar in boxing.” continued Mercado. “I want to show people that anything is possible if you’re willing to put in the work. I know I have a long road ahead of me, but I’m making all the sacrifices to be great. This Saturday will be another step in the right direction.”

Tito, a promotional free agent, is ready to take the next step and join forces with a promoter who can help him reach new heights. The search for a promoter who shares his passion for the sport and his vision for the future, is the missing piece. He’s hoping to find a promoter who will help him achieve his ultimate goal of becoming a champion.

“I believe that I have what it takes to be a star in this sport, and I’m eager to find the right promoter who will help me get there,” Mercado says. “I’ve been working hard every day to improve my skills and reach my full potential. Right now, I have a great team behind me, and getting the right promoter will be the final piece.”




MARQUES VALLE LOOKS TO CONTINUE DOMINANCE AT 154 ON FEBRUARY 22 ON PROBOX TV

Tampa’s highly talked about Marques Valle is looking to set the ground running in 2023, as he looks to establish himself as a contender in the super welterweight division.

Valle has been dominant in his 7 professional outings, with all of the wins coming within the scheduled distance. Now the all-action puncher turns his attention to making an impact in the super welterweight division.

Valle opened up on his plans in 2023, “I’m working hard as always in the gym to improve technically and grow into the weight. I started my pro career at 147 but I think I’m going to continue to grow, so it’s the right thing for me to fight at 54.

“I’ve had a great start to my career on ProBox TV, the whole team from Garry Jonas to coaches Marc Farrait and Asa Beard along with my management team at Split-T have worked really well to bring me on the right way, I feel like I have a dream team and that’s really all a fighter can ask for.” 

‘The Machine’ competes as a professional alongside his younger brother Dominic Valle, who also holds an undefeated record, and the bigger brother discussed his relationship with his brother and hopes for 2023 for the pair.

He said, “I’m really happy with how me and my brother have progressed, and I love how we always get featured on ProBox TV. Dominic has been guided properly and I think we’re going to be ready for a regional title in 2023.

“There’s a lot of great fighters on television, fighters like Erickson Lubin who are in fights that we are aiming to be in one day, but for now I think we will want to push ourselves into a position where we are ready to break into the world top 15 and go from there.

“I’m from a Puerto Rican family, I grew up watching Felix Trinidad and Miguel Cotto, it was a family party every time there was a big Puerto Rican fight on, and boxing is a family business with me. Hopefully one day we can have these types of parties when my brother and I fight.”

Watch ProBox TV Events FOR FREE (NO SIGN UP REQUIRED) live on YouTube in English and Spanish. You can watch ProBoxTV ad free on ProBoxTV.com for $1.99




WEIGHTS, RUNNING ORDER AND IMAGES FOR SERRANO VS. CRUZ/BAUMGARDNER VS. MEKHALED

First bell at 4.30pm ET
 
8 x 3 mins Super-Lightweight contest
Aaron Aponte 138.6lbs vs. Joshua David Rivera 138.8lbs
(Hialeah Gardens, Florida)         (La Mesa, California)
 
Followed by
 
4 x 3 mins Lightweight contest
Harley Mederos 134.2lbs vs. Julio Madera 133.6lbs
(Brooklyn, New York)    (Mexico City, Mexico)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBC Silver and WBA Continental Super-Middleweight titles
Shadasia Green 167.2lbs           vs.        Elin Cederroos 167.4lbs
(Paterson, New Jersey)                          (Vasteraas, Sweden)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins IBF Intercontinental Super-Bantamweight title
Ramla Ali 121.4lbs vs. Avril Mathie 121.4lbs
(London, United Kingdom) (Sydney, Australia)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins WBC Silver Bantamweight title
Skye Nicolson 125.6lbs vs. Tania Alvarez 124.8lbs
(Yatala, Queensland, Australia)  (Barcelona, Spain)
 
LIVE ON DAZN FROM 8PM 
 
8 x 3 mins Flyweight contest
Yankiel Rivera 112.4lbs vs.        Fernando Diaz 111.8lbs
(Bayamon, Puerto Rico) (Riverside, California)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 3 mins IBF North American Super-Lightweight title
Richardson Hitchins 139.6lbs vs. John Bauza 139lbs
(Brooklyn, New York)    (North Bergen, New Jersey)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins Undisputed World Super-Featherweight championship
Alycia Baumgardner 129lbs vs. Elhem Mekhaled 129lbs
(Detroit, Michigan)        (Paris, France)
 
Followed by
 
10 x 2 mins Undisputed World Featherweight championship
Amanda Serrano 125.4lbs vs. Erika Cruz 125.4lbs
(Brooklyn, New York)    (Mexico City, Mexico)




JMM Promotions & Chiquita Gonzalez Promotions to Co-Promote Wednesday Night Boxing in Mexico City’s Auditorio BlackBerry, February 8, Live on ProBox TV and the ProBox App

February 3, 2023, Mexico City, Mexico  – –  International Boxing Hall of Fame members Juan

Manuel Marquez, nine-time world champion in four weight classes, and four time world champion Humberto “Chiquita” Gonzalez, are co-promoting a boxing event on Wednesday, February 8 at the Auditorio Blackberry in Mexico City.  The event will be streamed live on ProBox TV and the ProBox App, beginning at 8 pm ET / 5 pm CT.

The Card:

Main Event – 10 Rounds Super Bantamweight

Brayan “Azteca” Rivera 11-3 9 KO’s, Ecatepec, Mexico                 vs.

Alejandro “Conejo” Gonzalez, 12-5-2 7 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico

8 Rounds Flyweights

Francisco Araujo,  9-1 KO’s Merida, Mexico      vs

Ivan Garcia, 8-2-1 5 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico

6 Rounds Light Welterweights

Alexis De La Cruz Martinez, 6-1-1 3 KO’s, Mexico City, Mexico        vs

TBA

6 Rounds Super Welterweights 

Jesus Mauricio Estrada, 7-0 4 KOs, Mexico, Mexico

Leyver Lopez Razgado, 3-3-1, 1 KO, Oaxaca, Mexico

6 Rounds flyweights

Emiliano Toscano Diaz, 7-0, 3 KOs, Mexico City, Mexico     vs.       

Sergio Manzo Rebolledo, 3-2, 1 KOs Mexico, 

4 Rounds Super Featherweights

Jose Guillermo Keb Canul, 1-0, Cancun, Mexico         vs

Roberto Elizalde Galvan, 1-1, Nezahualcoyotl, Mexico

4 Rounds Super Welterweights

Jaime Osuna, 1-0, Baja California Sur, Mexico     vs

TBA

Follow ProBox TV at

https://twitter.com/ProBox_TV and https://www.youtube.com/c/ProBoxTV




UNDEFEATED RYAN O’ROURKE STEPS UP AGAINST NEW YORK’S DASHAUN “TOO SWEET” JOHNS AT JERSEY CITY FIGHT NIGHT ON MARCH 4

Jersey City, New Jersey (February 3, 2023) – Saturday, March 4 marks what is believed to be the first professional boxing card promoted at the historic White Eagle Hall in Downtown Jersey City, New Jersey. Leading into the St. Patrick’s Day weekend, it’s fitting to bring Irish flare to “Jersey City Fight Night.” 2021 Irish Prospect of the year, and growing stateside favorite, “THE SILENT ASSASSIN” RYAN O’ROURKE (Dublin, Ireland, 9-0 2KO’s) returns to the US to face off in perhaps his toughest test to date against Bronx native, and former amateur boxing standout, DASHAUN “TOO SWEET” JOHNS (4-2 2KO’s) over 8-rounds in the welterweight division.

This will be O’Rourke’s third fight under the Star Boxing banner in the US over the past year, and his first in New Jersey. To this point, O’Rourke has passed his previous tests with flying colors. In April, O’Rourke dismantled Faycal Rezkallah at Rivers Casino in Schenectady, NY, in route to a dominating unanimous decision victory. Returning to New York in November, the venue was different, but the result was the same, as O’Rourke devoured the heavy-handed Andres Maier at Mulcahy’s in Wantagh, NY, knocking the German down twice, before the final blow ended the fight at the 2:53 mark of the first round.

Growing into his lengthy frame, the 23-year-old is continuing to develop, and believes this is a fight that will see him take the next and necessary step in his career. O’Rourke had this to say about the bout “I am really looking forward to getting back in the ring and back to the States. This is a good step-up for me as I go back to 8 rounders. I’m really starting to feel the support in the States after just two fights, and I think being able to showcase my skills against a good opponent in Dashaun will elevate my fan base even more. I know there’s big plans for me and this fight is the perfect opportunity to set up a big year ahead with the continued support of the Irish communities in New York and now New Jersey. I feel we can go all the way. Come out and see me in an all action fight March 4.”

Dashaun Johns enters the fight a winner of two of his last three, with both victories coming by way of first round knockout. Most recently Johns fought valiantly against undefeated Tyhler Williams in Williams’ hometown of Philadelphia. With his focus shifted to Ryan O’Rourke on March 4, the southpaw is not backing down, “I stay ready.” said John’s. “The goal is to the fight the best regardless of their record. I’m here to continue my legacy.”

Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA is anticipating an exciting bout, “Ryan has been developing nicely and improving every time out. In this fight, he faces a tough challenge in Dashaun, who is both a southpaw and skilled boxer. An exciting Irish prospect of the year vs a talented, quick and experienced Bronx raised fighter is a fight we are proud to have on this card. We are anxious to see this fight and know fans are looking forward to it as well.”

JERSEY CITY FIGHT NIGHT is promoted by Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and is set to take place at White Eagle Hall in Jersey City, New Jersey on Saturday, March 4. This distinctive boxing experience will have a networking atmosphere with a free-flowing cocktail party layout. Tickets will be exclusive and limited, giving those in attendance the unique opportunity to mingle with local businesses, representatives, athletes, and other notables. Doors to the event open at 6:30PM. Tickets to “Jersey City Fight Night” are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting whiteeaglehalljc.com or www.StarBoxing.com.

White Eagle Hall is located at 337 Newark Ave., Jersey City, New Jersey, 07302.

All bouts are subject to change;

For more information visit: whiteeaglehalljc.com and StarBoxing.com

JERSEY CITY FIGHT NIGHT TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Tickets Start at $50. Fight Night: March 4, 2023 at White Eagle Hall

 




IRISH BOXING STAR ‘KING’ CALLUM WALSH DEBUTS IN BOSTON, ST. PATRICK’S EVE AT THE AGGANIS ARENA

Boston, MA (February 3, 2023) Fast-Rising Irish Boxing Star, ‘King’ Callum Walsh, (5-0, 4 KOs), of Cork, Ireland will face Spain’s Leonardo Di Stefano Ruiz, (10-1, 9 KOs), in his Boston, MA debut on the Eve of St. Patrick’s DayThursday, March 16. The event will be hosted at the Agganis Arena (925 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215) on the campus of Boston University and broadcast live globally on UFC FIGHT PASS (10:00 p.m. PT / 7:00 p.m. PT).

The ten-round super welterweight clash headlines ‘Hollywood Fight Nights – Boston: Walsh vs. Ruiz’ presented by Tom Loeffler’s 360 Promotions. Advance tickets priced at $200, $150, $100, $50 and $25 for the live event will go on-sale Monday, February 6 and can be purchased at www.AgganisArena.comStudent tickets priced at $25 can be purchased at the Agganis Arena Box Office with valid student ID.

Guided by Boston Hometown HeroesUFC President Dana White, who specifically chose the 21-year-old Walsh to be featured prominently on UFC FIGHT PASS, and Hall of Fame trainer Freddie Roach, the hard-hitting Walsh has cultivated a massive Irish following on both sides of the pond. All five of his professional fights have produced sold-out, celebrity-filled crowds in his adopted hometown of Los Angeles, CA. Prior to turning pro, Walsh was a six-time National Irish Champion and European Gold Medalist.

Said Callum Walsh, “I’m honored to be fighting in Freddie’s hometown and in front of the huge Irish community in Boston, the night before St. Patrick’s Day. We’re deep in training camp at Wild Card Boxing Gym and I look forward to putting on a great show for fight fans on Thursday, March 16 at the Agganis Arena and live on UFC FIGHT PASS.”

“I am so happy for Callum.  Fighting in Boston was always special for me, as a fighter and a trainer. Nothing compares to it. Now Callum will experience that excitement. Even better, he will be headlining an event the night before St. Patrick’s Day. That’s the boxing equivalent of winning the Irish Sweepstakes.  It’s been five years since I’ve been in Boston. This will be one heck of a homecoming.” said Freddie Roach

Said the upset minded Leonardo Di Stefano Ruiz, “I want to thank Callum Walsh and 360 Promotions for accepting the fight on UFC Fight Pass. It is a huge opportunity at this stage in my career because on March 16th in Boston, Walsh will definitely need the LUCK OF THE IRISH. I hope he brings his four-leaf clovers with him, because I am going to hit him with a force of a hundred drunken Irishmen. March 16th in Boston I will end his short reign.”

“Having promoted heavyweight world champions Vitali and Wladimir Klitschko along with longtime middleweight world champion Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin, I know the importance of building a fighter organically in front of true boxing fans. This was the main reason to bring Callum to Boston and its strong Irish community,” said Tom Loeffler. “Callum has all the attributes to become a world champion and we’re very excited to work with the Agganis Arena at Boston University for what will be a very special St. Patrick’s Celebration.”

Stated Kris Brassil, General Manager of the Agganis Arena, “We are excited to host big time boxing again at the Agganis Arena and to have Callum Walsh and his legendary trainer Freddie Roach here. This should be a great main event versus Leonardo di Stefano Ruiz in addition to having many local Boston fighters on the show.”

In Walsh’s most recent fight he stopped previously once-beaten Delen Parsley (13-1), on November 3, 2022, dropping the battle-tested veteran three times before earning the stoppage in round three.

Currently residing in Southern California, the upset minded and hard-hitting Di Stefano Ruiz has aggressively sought out Callum Walsh and will have his opportunity now to fight him on March 16.

Much more information on ‘Hollywood Fight Nights – Boston: Walsh vs. Ruiz’ will be announced shortly.

Social Media

#HollywoodFightNights

#UFCFightPass

Instagram

@callum_walsh1

@leodistefanoruiz

@ufcfightpass

@360BoxingPromotions

@TomLoeffler1

@360BoxingPromotions

@howlerheadehiskey

Twitter

@KingCallumWalsh

@LDiStefanoRuiz

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@TomLoeffler1

 @howlerhead

Facebook

@UFCFightPass

@360BoxingPromos

@howlerheadwhiskey

Website

www.360Promotions.us




Boxlab Promotions returns February 25 for “Night of Champions II”

Orlando, FL (February 3, 2023) — World class championship boxing returns to the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida as local favorite Nestor Bravo defends his WBO NABO junior welterweight title against Jair Valtierra.

The ten-round bout will headline “Night of Champions II,” promoted by Boxlab Promotions and televised by the CBS Sports Network on February 26 starting at 10:30 pm et.

Bravo (21-0, 15 KO’s), who is a native of Arecibo, Puerto Rico, will be making his first appearance in his adopted hometown in nearly five years as he faces the determined Valtierra (16-2, 8 KO’s) of Leon, Mexico.

This past October, Bravo became the WBO NABO champion with a seventh round stoppage of Adrian Yung in Puerto Rico.

“Once again Caribe Royale is proud to host its Championship Boxing series. For the second straight event, multiple titles from the WBA and the WBO are on the line featuring the WBO’s 12th ranked junior welterweight contender Nestor Bravo. It’s great to have Central Florida’s fans back at Caribe Royale for another action packed event, says Caribe Royale Managing Director, Amaury Piedra. “We look forward once again to working with CBSSN and Boxlab Promotions on this event.”

In the co-featured bout, 2016 US Olympian Antonio Vargas (15-1, 8 KO’s) of Kissimmee, Fla. Squares off against Michell Banquez (20-2, 14 KO’s) of Fort Lauderdale by way of Caracas, Venezuela in a ten-round fight for the WBA Continental Americas bantamweight title.

A winner of his last five fights, four by knockout, Vargas is taking a significant step up in competition. The 32-year-old Banquez has impressive victories over Hector Betancourt (11-1), William Riera (9-0-1), Prince Patel (19-0-1) and Joahnys Argilagos (8-0).

Opening the CBS Sports Network telecast is Cuban standout Idalberto Umara (8-1, 5 KO’s) against heavy-handed Colombian Devi Julio (24-12, 15 KO’s). Scheduled for ten rounds, Umara’s making the first defense of his WBA Fedecaribe lightweight title.

The undercard features local favorites and rising prospects including Adrian Pinheiro, Jeovanny Estela, Darious “Hawk” Jackson, Elijah Flores, Yoenis Tellez, Freudis Rojas and the debuting Shamara Woods.

Doors open at 6 pm and the first bout begins at 7.

Tickets from $40 can be purchased by via Ticketmaster by clicking here (https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/22005E3ADB06D805). Discounted rooms at the Caribe Royale are available by clicking on this link (https://book.passkey.com/go/NOC2) .




Nonito Donaire Protégé Undefeated Bantamweight Contender Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price Takes on Joebert Alvarez on Saturday, February 18th at Elevations Event Center in Chester, PA

CHESTER, PA (February 3, 2023)–On Saturday night, February 18th, undefeated bantamweight contender Dylan Price will take on Joebert Alvarez in a 10-round bout for the WBO Global and WBC Intercontinental titles that will headline a special night of boxing and entertainment at The Elevations Event Center in Chester, Pennsylvania.

The night is promoted by Price Promotions.

Price of Sicklerville, New Jersey, has a record of 15-0 with 10 knockouts and is ranked in the top-15 by the WBO & WBC. The 24 year-old Price is a six-year professional who won the NBA Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Drew Correll on July 16, 2022 at The Elevations Event Center.

Alvarez of Renton, Washington by way of the Philippines has an impressive mark of 20-4-2 with seven knockouts. The 33 year-old southpaw has been a pro for 13 years. He has wins over Angelo Marcial (1-0), RJ Gonzales (1-0), Lyster Jun Ponco (7-1), Rennen Tesoria (9-0-2), Jerry Tonogdan (11-2-2). Alvarez holds a win over current WBO Light Flyweight champion Jonathan Gonzalez (18-1)

Also on the card will be the much anticipated pro-debut of lightweight Devin “Baby Boy” Price.

Devin will take part in a four-round bout against an opponent to be named.

Price Promotions will also stage a night of entertainment that will feature comedians and entertainers from all over the country.

Tickets are on sale NOW at www.pboxingpromotions.com

Elevations Event Center is located at 51 9th Street Chester, Chester Township, PA 19013