Nine-Time World Champion Nonito Donaire Confirmed For Price Promotions February 18th Pro Boxing Card”

CHESTER, PA (JANUARY 17, 2023)–Price Promotions who at this current time has one main goal, and one main focus and that focus is on Dylan Price. Dylan (Affectionately called) “Real Dyl” is a bantamweight contender that seems to be more times than not on the wrong end of the stick.

Price has won “Most Outstanding Boxer” in two National Tournaments, yet not many know of his name. He is a star, but at the lower divisions so… Well who the hell really cares, right? Now you have to also take into account that his father, David, is a very smart business mind so not too many promoters want to deal with that type of person.

The primary promoters choose to deal with people that can be told, and when confronted, will submit, but the senior Price was not really moved by the former nor the latter. However, there was one particular company that showed love to the Price’s. and that was Mayweather Promotions. They, particularly, Leonard Ellerbe were kind to the Price’s (In the way that they understand how to be) so that being said, David Price owes Leonard Ellerbe an apology. “I have done so via text and by voicemail and my final apology is in the form of this release” (how appropriate a word).

“However, as a whole, this industry is not without its share of undesirables. These individuals or even groups of individuals have conspired to keep my son Dylan and myself from mainstream boxing. I know, I know another bitter father that sees his son as something beyond his actual abilities. Well, riddle me this, if my son isn’t as good as I believe him to be, then why is it that to date we have never received a call from a matchmaker representing any of the minor or major promotional companies . Not even one can ever say that they have ever reached out with a possible match for my son. In other words if he isn’t what he thinks he is, then why not serve up another meal for one of your 118lb monsters? Why not have a seven- Time National Champion, Two -Time MVP that was 10-0, 11-0, 12-0, 13-0, 14-0 and is currently 15-0, with 10kos as an opponent for someone in your 118lb stable. All of the major boxing promotions have at least one 118lb boxer if not more, but still we are sitting here all by our lonesome. .. I’m sorry I digressed!!!!”

When Mayweather in their attempt to show love, had us featured on their Facebook channel in January 2019. We actually lost. Yes 15-0 Dylan Price has a loss! But Dylan also has a father who also has a heavenly Father who saw fit to have the Nevada State Athletic Commission make a random request to check this particular fighter’s urine, and to our surprise my former business partner and still close friend Doc Nowicki called me and said I was looking on Boxrec and Dylan’s name has an 0 beside it. I of course thought he was mistaken, but when I researched Boxrec, I saw the same. I immediately contacted the Commission and they confirmed that it was in- fact, accurate. He cheated, he cheated, he cheated, I celebrated!!!! But there’s not going to be much of a fuss surrounding positive news regarding a 115lb African American kid that had their record sponged due to cheating. Nope that gives those that were hoping that we failed more energy to galvanize.

Good plan but…………..the God that I serve saw otherwise. Long story for another time but this same individual has caught the eye of the former king ,and soon to be back on his throne to once-again be the king of the bantamweight division. That being future first-ballot Hall of Famer, Nonito Donaire.”

“The Filipino Flash” has agreed to be Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price’ trainer along with his beautiful wife Rachel. Rachel has proven that she is more than capable to function as the team’s lead strategist and strength Coach. The unlikely pair of families have in a relatively short period of time, developed a bond, a kindred spirit connection of some sorts.

Ok Listen you don’t have to have a THD in Theology to ask these questions;

  1. Why would a fighter in the same division share information from the first 10 minutes that he met another fighter? Why would he tell him secret techniques that he had developed over the course of his career?
  2. Why would a 40 year old, nine- time World Champion, that is still chasing greatness seeking an unprecedented 10th World Championship, decide to get on a plane, oh yeah, bring his wife at the bequest of the senior Price and assist them in training???
  3. A 118lber former King who is seeking title number ten, decides to take on as a protégé another contender in his current division by the name of Dylan Price, weird right? Either way as I said…………………………………………………………………………………………..…………

“Nine-Time World Champion Nonito Donaire Confirmed For Price Promotions February 18th Boxing Card”

Price Promotions will be having their first Star Studded Event of 2023 which will also be their 3rd event since conception. These Star Studded Events are focused around one individual fighter by the name of Dylan Price.

In each of the events, Price Promotions has created their version of “24/7” or “All Access” entitled 7on7, “7 weeks, 7 episodes, 7 minutes welcome to 7on7”. The 7on7 series can be currently viewed on Price Productions Youtube Page. There are several pages with this name but we are the one with 27 Subscribers (as of January 14, 2023). Filming has also begun on 6 mini sitcoms (several of which feature Dylan Price) created by Dr. David Price, President and Founder of Price Promotions, DKP Productions and Price Productions LLC. He is also the senior partner in an app being developed called Profetsplus.com (Prophets for Profit). The youngest boxer in the family will be making his professional debut at 135lbs. The 18 year old Devin “Baby Boy” Price (sometimes Kristian; another story, another day) is excited about the opportunity to begin his professional career on Saturday February 18th.

This Star Studded Event will be held on Saturday February 18, 2023 located at the Elevations Event Center at 51 S 9th Street, Chester Pa 19013.

Tickets will be released on Wednesday February 1, 2023 and the fight will be available for purchase on Pay-Per-View at Profetsplus.com

        The Dream Team:

  1. Fighter: Dylan “The Real Dyl” Price
  2. Trainer: Nonito Donaire;
  3. Trainer: David Price
  4. Trainer: Wade Hinnant
  5. Adjunct Trainer: Nate Campbell
  6. Adjunct Trainer: Paulie Malignaggi
  7. Strategist & Strength: Rachel Donaire
  8. Cutman: Danny Davis
  9. Chief Advisor: J Russell Peltz
  10. Public Relations: Marc Abrams
  11. Sponsor: APS, Shane Goodell
  12. Matchmaker: TBA

Price Promotions is still seeking a dynamic matchmakers to assist with several bouts




Hank Lundy Steps in as Adrien Broner’s New Opponent February 25 in Atlanta on BLK Prime Pay-Per-View

ATLANTA, GA (January 17, 2023) – Due to circumstances out of the control of BLK Prime, Ivan Redkach (23-6-1, 18 KOs), who was intended to fight Adrien Broner (34-4-1, 24 KOs) in a 10-round welterweight main event on February 25, will now be replaced with “Hammerin” Hank Lundy (31-12-1, 14 KOs).

Broner vs. Lundy, taking place at the Gateway Center in Atlanta, Georgia, will broadcast worldwide on BLK Prime PPV for $39.99. More details, including ticket sales and undercard bouts, will be announced at a later date.

Broner vs. Lundy promises to be a thrilling and action-packed matchup between two battle-tested warriors who are promising to go to war. The combination of Broner’s speed and power with Lundy’s grit and determination is sure to make for an unforgettable night of boxing.

Broner, the former four-weight world champion and Cincinnati native, has established himself as one of the sport’s most exciting and dynamic fighters today. He captured world titles in four weight classes and is known for his bold and confident style. He’s a fan favorite that always put on a show.

“I’m glad they found a worthy replacement in Hank Lundy,” said Broner, from his training camp in South Florida. “Unfortunately, Redkach had to pull out, but I’m ready for whoever they put in front of me. This is the AB show and I’m on a mission to bust up everyone in my way. Hank Lundy is in trouble. I’m going to put a beating on him.”

Lundy, hailing from Philadelphia, PA, is a seasoned veteran with an impressive resume having fought Terence Crawford, Jose Zepeda, and Viktor Postol. He’s known for his relentless pressure and never-say-die approach. He’s been in the ring with some of the best fighters in the world and always comes to fight. He’s a fan favorite guaranteed to put on a great show.

“Fighting Broner is something I’ve envisioned for a long time and now this opportunity has presented itself to me,” stated Lundy. “Broner has established himself as one of the best fighters in the world, but he hasn’t been active, so I’m going to take full advantage of his inactivity. Everyone knows that I will fight anyone and the big names run from me. So I’m telling everyone right now, I’m going to beat the shit out of this can man.”

#

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 #CrawfordAvanesyan, on Instagram @BLKPRIMEBOXNG @BLKPRIME on Twitter @BLKPRIMEBOXING, on Facebook @BLKPRIMEMEDIA




BETERBIEV SHRUGS OFF YARDE’S USYK ASSISTANCE

ARTUR BETERBIEV OFFERED up a nonchalant response when questioned over his former amateur rival providing some words of advice to his forthcoming opponent Anthony Yarde ahead of the world light heavyweight title clash at the OVO Arena, Wembley on January 28.

British challenger Yarde was perched next to the unified heavyweight champion Usyk at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in December while Tyson Fury was quashing the threat of his old rival Derek Chisora.

He claimed the Ukrainian gave him some tips on how to go about taking on the formidable Canadian-based Russian.

Beterbiev was edged out by Usyk at both the 2011 World Championship and the 2012 London Olympics.

“I don’t know,” said the 37-year-old Beterbiev with a chuckle when asked if a few pearls of wisdom from Usyk would help Yarde in his quest to part him from the WBC, WBO and IBF world title belts.

“If it helps him, then good for him. What can Usyk give him?”

It was suggested that Usyk could impart the benefit of experience from fighting him.

“And?” said a still smiling Beterbiev, who was a little bit more forthcoming when it came to explaining why, when he stepped up to light heavyweight, Canelo Alvarez opted to challenge Dmitrii Bivol for one world title belt, rather than himself for two, at the time.

“Why do you think? You need to ask Canelo, not me. How can I answer this one? If it was a fight that came to me I would take it, but I am not dreaming about this fight.”

Artur Beterbiev was speaking to Dev Sahni for the Unibet Lowdown. To watch the full interview, click HERE.

Artur Beterbiev v Anthony Yarde for the WBC, WBO and IBF world light heavyweight titles takes place at the OVO Arena, Wembley on January 28, live on BT Sport. The bumper card also features the WBA world flyweight title fight between unbeaten fighters Artem Dalakian v David Jiminez.

Willy Hutchinson and Karol Itauma fight for the WBO Intercontinental and WBC International light heavyweight titles respectively, with the show also featuring top prospects Charles Frankham, Umar Khan, Sean Noakes, Joshua Frankham, Khalid Ali and Tommy Fletcher.

The show also features the highly-anticipated professional debut of World Youth Champion Moses Itama.

Tickets for Beterbiev vs Yarde are priced from £50 and are available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.




Split-T Management Fighters Open Up 2023 With Six Big Wins

NEW YORK (January 17, 2023) — Abraham Nova won a action-filled 10-round unanimous decision over Adam Lopez in a junior lightweight fight at The Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona, New York

Nova’s win highlighted a night that saw Split-T Management Fighters win six contests between Verona and Milwaukee.

In round five, Nova dropped Lopez with a right that was followed by a left to the jaw that landed during an exchange.

At the beginning of round six, Nova landed a hard right hand that hurt Lopez. Lopez was grabbing onto Nova but fell to the canvas for a knockdown.

In round 10, both guys brawled and landed some hard punches. Both were able to stay on their feet in the crowd pleasing affair.

Nova landed 111 of 462 punches; Lopez was 112 of 415.

Nova, 129 lbs of Albany, NY won by scores of 98-90 twice and 97-91 and is now 22-1. Lopez, 129 lbs of Glendale, CA is 16-4.

Haven Brady Jr. remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Ruben Cervera in a lightweight bout.

In round one, Brady was cut in his mouth.

Brady landed 108 of 397 punches. Cervera was 56 of 323.

Brady, 132 3/4 lbs of Albany, GA won by scores of 80-72, 79-3 and 78-4 and is now 9-0. Cervera, 130 1/4 lbs of Santa Maria, CA is 13-4.

Dante Benjamin Jr. stopped Emmanuel Austin in the opening round of their six-round light heavyweight bout.

In round one, Benjamin landed a left-right and left to the head that put Austin down. Benjamin finished off Austin as he landed a big flurry of power punches that was highlighted by a booming right hand, and referee Mark Nelson stopped the bout at 2:50

Benjamin, 174 lbs of Cleveland, OH is 5-0 with three knockouts. Austin, 175 lbs of Panama City, FL is 6-1.

Nova is co-promoted by Top Rank, Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Rounds Promotions. Brady and Benjamin are promoted by Top Rank.

In Milwaukee, Rolando Vargas won an eight-round unanimous decision over Derrick Murray in a super lightweight bout.

Vargas of Milwaukee won by scores of 79-73 twice and 77-75 is now 9-1. Murray of Saint Louis is 17-7-1.

Former IBF Junior Welterweight champion Mary McGee was impressive in stopping former world champion Dahianna Santana at 3:00 of round four of their welterweight bout.

McGee of Gary, Indiana is now 28-4 with 16 knockouts. Santana of New York is 40-14.

McGee is promoted by DiBella Entertainment.

Javier Zammaron made it two consecutive first round stoppages to begin his career as he took out Sean Williams at 67 seconds of their junior lightweight bout.

Zammaron of Sheboygan, Wisconsin is 2-0 with two knockouts. Williams was making his pro debut.

In the main event in Verona, NY, Split-T Management’s Stephan Shaw (18-1) dropped a close unanimous decision to Efe Ajagba.

Shaw is co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Top Rank.




PETER KAHN’S FIGHT GAME ADVISORS SIGNS PUERTO RICAN AMATEUR STANDOUT KIRIA TAPIA

Miami, FL (January 15, 2023) Peter Kahn’s Fight Game Advisors has signed Puerto Rican Female Amateur Standout Kira Tapia, to an exclusive, long-term managerial contract. The native of San Juan, Puerto Rico will make her professional debut against Clarice Morales in a four-round battle this Friday, January 20 at the Kissimmee Civic Center on the Undisputed Promotions’ “WARZONE” event, where a huge crowd of passionate supporters is expected.

The 33-year-old Tapia is a prize-winning amateur boxer including gold medals at the 2011 Pan American Games in addition to the 2014 Central American and Caribbean Games. The charismatic beauty took a three-year break from 2016 to 2019 while recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon along with the birth of her second daughter.

In addition to aligning with the Boxing Writers Association of America’s 2022 Manager of the Year, Peter Kahn, Tapia is trained by boxing legend Ivan Calderon.

Said Kahn, “It’s an honor to work with such a talent as Kiria. She is an incredible athlete and has represented Puerto Rico for so many years with so much success, it’s truly humbling that she has entrusted me to guide her on her journey to becoming a world champion and solidifying her legacy as a professional fighter.”

Stated an elated Tapia about the partnership, “I am very excited about everything that is happening in my career right now, it has taken a 180-degree turn, knowing that it is real that I am going to make my professional debut, and even more so that it is in a place where there are so many Boricua fans who are in need of their families, of their Island, of their people, of that union of people.  There is nothing else that fills me with emotion and satisfaction knowing that I am going to give all of them what we need so much as a people.  I want to take advantage of this very special moment to thank the person who, from the first moment I met him, has shown special respect for me, for my career, and even more so, for my family, Peter Kahn. He has shown me that he is committed to my career and the well-being of my family, I think he is the person with the knowledge and all the tools to make my dreams come true.  To all my Boricua people, thank you for the unconditional support you have given me throughout my career representing our island as an amateur, there will be a new chapter and this time as a professional. I look forward to seeing you in Kissimmee, Florida, it will be a night of many emotions and lots of adrenaline.”

Added two-weight world champion Calderon, “First of all, I want to thank Kiria and Peter Kahn for believing in me; we are going to give everything to become a World Champion and thank you to my Boricuas from Kissimmee for giving me the Puerto Rican support as they always do.” 

For more information on Fight Game Advisors, please visit their website.




Coyle connects with Irish legend John Duddy in New York

New York, NY (January 16, 2023) – NABA middleweight champion Connor “The Kid” Coyle spent time with John Duddy on a recent trip to New York City.

Duddy assisted Coyle during a training session at Trinity Boxing Club. Following the workout, the pair sat down to discuss the ins and outs of the sweet science.

Like Duddy, Coyle is a middleweight from Derry, Northern Ireland with a fan-friendly style. Coyle had a big 2022, going 4-0 and winning the NABA title in the process. Currently ranked #6 by the WBA, Coyle’s happy he was able to spend time with a fighter he looked up to.

“It was great to spend time with John,” said Coyle, who is 18-0 with 8 knockouts. “He’s an inspiration to many fighters including myself. He always gave fans their monies worth and fought with incredible determination. That helped him become a big draw in New York and back home in Ireland. Above all that, he’s a true gentleman and a great ambassador for Irish boxing.”

Coyle is promoted by Fire Fist Boxing Promotions and trains under Florida Boxing Hall of Famer Jim McLaughlin.

His next fight will be announced shortly.




ELTHAM FLYWEIGHT MAISEYROSE COURTNEY SIGNS WITH MATCHROOM BOXING

Eltham Flyweight prospect and former amateur standout Maiseyrose Courtney has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. 

The 22-year-old South Londoner made a winning start to her professional career by comfortably outpointing Hungary’s Judit Hackbold over four rounds on the undercard of Katie Taylor’s Undisputed Lightweight World Title defence against Karen Elizabeth Carabajal at the OVO Arena in Wembley last October. 

Courtney, who is the first female boxer to train out of the Matchroom Boxing Elite Gym in Essex, started boxing at just eight-years-old and went on to represent the famous Repton Boxing Club, winning six National Titles and fighting her way into the Team England set-up.

Trained by Tony Sims and Kevin Mitchell, Courtney joins a thriving Matchroom stable boasting some of the very best female fighters on the planet including Ireland’s Undisputed Queen Taylor, Undisputed Super-Lightweight ruler Chantelle Cameron and Unified Super-Featherweight Champion Alycia Baumgardner.

“It’s a dream come true to have signed a deal with Matchroom Boxing,” said Courtney. “From walking into the Matchroom Elite Gym a year ago and becoming Tony Sims’ and Kevin Mitchell’s first female fighter, to making my debut on Katie Taylor’s undercard and now this, it’s been an incredible few months.

“Now it’s time to repay the faith that Eddie, Tony and Kevin have shown in me. In 2023 I’m going to show the world why I believe I’m one of the most exciting female fighters around.

“I’ve been boxing my whole life, mixed it with some of the best boxers across the country and now finally I’ve got the right team in place to help build me into the World Champion I know I will become.”

“I’m delighted to welcome 1-0 Eltham Flyweight talent Maiseyrose Courtney to the Matchroom Boxing team,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “Maiseyrose has lived and breathed boxing since she was a child and she has huge ambitions in the sport. Her achievements in the amateurs speak for themselves and I believe she will enjoy even more success in the professional ranks under the guidance of Tony Sims and Kevin Mitchell. I was really impressed with her debut performance on such a big stage right ahead of Irish legend Katie Taylor’s last defence of her Undisputed World Title and she looks like she’s made for the big stage. I look forward to guiding her throughout her career.”
 
You can follow Courtney’s journey on Instagram: _maiseyrose and Twitter: @Maiseyrose1




YARDE NOT INTERESTED IN POINT SCORING

ANTHONY YARDE DISCOVERED in just his second amateur fight that playing for points and attempting to impress the judges is not for him.
Yarde, of course, is set for a second tilt at world title glory when he takes on the unbeaten unified champion Artur Beterbiev at the OVO Arena, Wembley on January 28, live on BT Sport, having overcome professional setbacks against Sergey Kovalev and Lyndon Arthur.

The self-styled ‘Beast from the East’ of the capital famously enjoyed limited amateur experience of just 12 fights before blasting onto the pro scene back in 2015. It meant he was not moulded into a textbook light heavyweight or took onboard too many amateur traits that required drilling out of him.

In fact, he flatly refused requests from his amateur coach Tony Cesay to adopt a more patient approach to his work, which resulted in him having only the dozen unpaid fights.
“It was the timeframe as well, I started boxing late,” added Yarde, now 31. “I had my first amateur fight when I was 19, I got into boxing at 18 and I didn’t have no junior bouts, no schoolboys, just straight into adult boxing.

“I think Tunde (trainer/manager, Ajayi) would agree with this. When I met Tunde I had a style-base already, based on people I had watched, people I wanted to mimic or re-mix. I feel like Tunde helped me evolve my boxing skill as I was very powerful.

“As an amateur I trained with Tony Cesay up until around seven fights in and, even as a professional, he used to come and join some of our sessions as well. From when I started boxing Tony used to say to me ‘you are sitting on your shots too much, you’re being flat-footed, you need to be in and out. Yes, you are powerful, but you need to be in and out, in and out’.

“I replied to him saying ‘Tone, I want to be a great professional boxer, not a good amateur. I know what you are saying, but I’ve got a plan in my head. I’m going to knock out everybody’.

“He said I couldn’t do that because I wouldn’t get any fights. In my first fight I knocked the guy out – we are friends now – then I couldn’t get a fight for three months. Tony said, ‘You see, because of your physique, the way you look, and you knocked out somebody, no-one wants to fight you’.

“So, in the second fight I boxed the guy. I still won, it was clear I won, Ohara Davies was there shouting the place down and, when they announced the other guy as the winner, he had a bloody nose, a bruised eye… They gave him the decision on their show, an army show, and afterwards the guy came into my changing room and tried to give me his medal, saying ‘you won that’.

“I said to keep it because now I was upset. If I got no fights, I got no fights, and after that I knocked out everyone I fought in the amateurs. So, I always wanted to have that great professional boxing style.”

And therein lies the lesson. Playing the longer game is not for him.

Yarde admits that he listened to the doubters who questioned whether he could go the full 12 rounds ahead of his maiden world title challenge against the long-standing Russian champion.

Against his better judgement, he bided his time and did the same thing when he first came up against Lyndon Arthur.

The spectacular outcome of the rematch with Arthur demonstrated which method of boxing works for Yarde and it isn’t a cagey, calculated approach.
“Fact. That is what I’m trying to say. I don’t think it is to do with anyone but myself. I had a mindset when I started boxing and, the second I tried to change it or listen to people asking if I could go 12 rounds, I went away from what I knew.

“I know why the Kovalev fight didn’t go my way, I know why the fight didn’t go my way in the amateurs, I know why they gave the decision to Lyndon Arthur in the first fight.

“When all these things happened, it was when I went against my natural instinct and what I said I was going to do from the beginning.
“After that first fight with Lyndon Arthur I said ‘no more games, I know exactly what I’m going to do. And I’m going to do it’.
“It is like back to the future.”

Artur Beterbiev v Anthony Yarde for the WBC, WBO and IBF world light heavyweight titles takes place at the OVO Arena, Wembley on January 28, live on BT Sport. The bumper card also features the WBA world flyweight title fight between unbeaten fighters Artem Dalakian v David Jiminez.

Willy Hutchinson and Karol Itauma fight for the WBO Intercontinental and WBC International light heavyweight titles respectively, with the show also featuring top prospects Charles Frankham, Umar Khan, Sean Noakes, Joshua Frankham, Khalid Ali and Tommy Fletcher.
Tickets for Beterbiev vs Yarde are priced from £50 and are available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.




Tyler “Short Fuse” Tomlin Bounces Back with Unanimous Decision Victory

CHEATHAM COUNTY, TN (January 15, 2023) – The return of Cheatham County, TN, lightweight Tyler “Short Fuse” Tomlin (14-1, 9 KOs), was a success as he won an 8-round unanimous decision over Gustavo David Vittori (27-12-1, 12 KOs). The fight took place last night at The Bruce Convention Center, in Hopkinsville, Kentucky. Tomlin won every round of the fight. Scorecards read 80-72 across the board.

“This is the start we were looking for, a good win over a tough opponent to start my year off right,” said Ty Tomlin, as he addressed the crowd after the fight. “I was gunning for the knockout, but this guy was tough, and he wasn’t going away. I hit him with some good shots, but credit to him, he took them and made it to the final bell.”

Tomlin is now looking to fight three to four more times, if possible, this year. His goal is to build his record up to 20-wins by the end of the year.

“I am hoping to stay active I would like to fight as much as possible,” continued Tomlin. “The good folks of Cheatham County have come out to support me in various cities, and I look forward to not just fighting here, but bringing the show on the road as well. This will be a busy year for me, and I am ready for whatever is in front of me.”

This event was promoted by One One Six Productions in association with DiBella Entertainment. 




Undefeated Heavyweight Stephan Shaw Headlining Bout Against Efe Ajagba Tops Huge Weekend Of Split-T Management Action Live on ESPN

NEW YORK (January 14, 2023) — Tonight undefeated heavyweight Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw will headline a big night of action when he takes on hard-punching Efe Ajagba on ESPN that will highlight a night of action of Split-T Management fighters in Verona, New York and Milwaukee Wisconsin.

Shaw, who was originally slated to face Guido Vianello in the co-feature bout, moved into the prime spot after an injury.

Shaw, 30 of Saint Louis, Missouri is 18-0 with 13 knockouts. The 10 year-professional is regarded as one of the Heavyweights to watch.

Shaw has wins over Danny Kelly (9-2-1), Jonnie Rice (4-1-1), Joel Caudle (7-1-1), Donovan Dennis (12-3), Willie Jake Jr. (8-2-1), Gregory Corbin (15-2) and Lyubomyr Pinchuk (12-1-1). In his bout, Shaw won an eight-round unanimous decision over Rydell Booker (26-6-1) on November 22, 2022 in New York City.

Ajagba is known as one of the hardest punches in the heavyweight division. The Houston native by way of Nigeria is 16-1 with 13 knockouts. The 28 year-old has impressive wins over Tyrell Anthony Herndon (6-1), Luke Lyons (5-0), Nick Jones (7-0), Amir Mansour (23-3-1), Michael Wallisch (19-1), Ali Eren Demirezen (11-0), Iago Kiladze (26-4-1). In his last bout, Ajagba stopped Jozsef Demos in two rounds on August 27, 2022 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

At Friday’s weigh-in, Shaw weighed 239.5 lbs. Ajagba was 235 1/4 lbs.

Shaw is co-promoted by Top Rank and DiBella Entertainment.

The fight will be broadcast live on ESPN at 10 PM ET

Also on the card in Verona, will be Split-T’s Abraham Nova taking on Adam Lopez in a 10-round super featherweight bout.

Nova of nearby Albany, New York is 21-1 with 15 knockouts. The 28 year-old Nova won his first 21 bouts. In his last bout, he suffered his first loss as he dropped his fight to Robeisy Ramirez on June 18, 2022 in New York.

Lopez of Glendale, California is 16-3 with six knockouts. Lopez is a former NABF Junior Featherweight and Featherweight champion, and is coming off an eight-round unanimous decision over William Encarnacion (19-2) on May 21, 2022 in Las Vegas.

Nova, who is promoted by Top Rank, Murphy’s Boxing and 12 Rounds Promotions weighed 129 lbs. Lopez was 129 lbs as well.

Undefeated junior lightweight Haven Brady Jr. will see action in an eight-round bout against Ruben Cervera.

Brady, 21 years-old of Albany, Georgia is 8-0 with four knockouts. Brady fought four times in 2022 and he finished off the year by winning an eight-round unanimous decision over undefeated Eric Mondragon on October 29 in New York City.

Cervera of Santa Marta, Colombia has a record of 13-3 with 11 knockouts. The 25 year-old Cervera is coming off a decision loss to Carlos Balderas on May 21 in Las Vegas.

Brady was 132 3/4 lbs. Cervera was 130 1/4.

Also on the card is undefeated light heavyweight Dante Benjamin Jr taking on Emmanuel Austin in a six-round bout.

Benjamin of Cleveland completed his rookie year with a record of 4-0 with two knockouts. He is coming off a unanimous decision over Leandro Silva on August 27, 2022 in Tulsa.

Austin of New Orleans is 6-0 with six-knockouts. The 29 year-old is coming off a first round stoppage over Juan Carlos Pitalua on May 4, 2022.

Benjamin weighed 174 lbs. Austin was 175 lbs.

Nova, Brady and Benjamin’s fights will be streamed live on ESPN+ beginning at 5:30 PM ET.

Brady and Benjamin are Promoted by Top Rank.

In Milwaukee, three more Split-T fighters will be in action. In the main event, Milwaukee’s Rolando Vargas takes on Derrick Murray in a eight-round junior welterweight bout.

Vargas (8-1, 7 KOs) has won three in a row and is coming off a win over Charles Garner (6-1) on October 29th in Milwaukee.

Murray of Saint Louis is 17-6-1 with six knockouts.. He has wins over two undefeated fighters and in his last bout, Murray stopped former world champion DeMarcus Corley on October 29th in Jackson, Tennessee.

The co-feature will see the return of former IBF Junior Welterweight champion Mary McGee. McGee takes on Dahianna Santana in a six-round bout.

McGee of Gary, Indiana is 27-5 with 15 knockouts, McGee won the IBF Junior Welterweight title with a 10th round stoppage over Ana Laura Esteche on December 6, 2019. She defended her crown once with a ninth round stoppage of Deanha Hobb (8-1). In her last bout, McGee lost a 10-round decision to WBC champion Chantelle Cameron on October 30, 2021 in London.

Santana of New York of 40-13 with 15 knockouts. Santana is a former WBA Interim World Featherweight champion. She won the belt by defeating Francis Elena Bravo on June 28, 2014. Santana challenged for the world title on three more occasions. Santana is on a four-fight winning streak as in her last bout she won a unanimous decision over Mima Elizabeth La Hoz on July 10, 2022 In Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

McGee is promoted by DiBella Entertainment.

Finally Javier Zamarron will look to make it two for two when he takes on debuting Sean Williams in a four-round featherweight bout.

Zammaron of Sheboygan, Wisconsin won his pro debut when he stopped Ahmond Rayshan Oates in the opening round on October 29, 2022 in Milwaukee.




Ra’eese Aleem Wants to Welcome Naoya Inoue to the Jr. Featherweight Division

LAS VEGAS, NV (January 13, 2023) – WBO #1 Jr. Featherweight contender

 Ra’eese “The Beast” Aleem (20-0, 12 KOs), the most avoided man in boxing, wants to welcome the undisputed bantamweight world champion Naoya Inoue (24-0, 12 KOs), better known by his nickname “The Monster” to the 122 lbs. division.

“I would love to be the first man to hand Naoya Inoue his first loss,” said Aleem. “I believe Inoue is a true champion, one who is willing to take on all comers, unlike some of the champions in my division currently. He is regarded as one of the best fighters of his era, and I truly see myself as the man to dethrone him.”

Aleem fought only once in 2022, defeating Mike Plania (27-2, 14 KOs) on the FS1 prelim of Andy Ruiz vs Luis Ortiz. His lack of activity was not entirely his fault, as the division as a whole was at a standstill with both unified champions only fighting once, as well.

“We want this fight as soon as possible against ‘The Monster’,” said Greg Hannley, 

Aleem’s manager and CEO of Prince Ranch Boxing. “All good things have to come to an end, and Aleem is ready to become a legend, and to do that he must beat one. We’re ready to talk. This is a very makeable fight. Let’s give the fans the fight they want to see.”

For Aleem 2022 was a bit frustrating as despite being one of the best fighters in the division, he couldn’t land the big fight that he deserves.

“It is frustrating as time isn’t on my side, and I am looking to get the most out of my career – and these fighters have been avoiding me leading to severe droughts in my ability to display my skills in the ring,” concluded Aleem. “I am the only fighter who is calling out Inoue. Everyone else is scared. What is scarier, ‘A monster’ or ‘A beast’? Let’s put both of our undefeated records on the line and see!”




Weigh-In Results: Efe Ajagba vs. Stephan Shaw & Guido Vianello vs. Jonnie Rice

 •  Efe Ajagba 235 1/4 vs. Stephan Shaw 239.5
(Heavyweight — 10 Rounds)

   •   Guido Vianello 239 lbs vs. Jonnie Rice 274 1/4 
lbs

(Heavyweight — 10 Rounds)

(ESPN+, 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT)

•  Abraham Nova 129 lbs vs. Adam Lopez 129 
lbs
 
(Junior Lightweight — 10 Rounds)

•    Haven Brady Jr. 132 3/4 lbs vs. Ruben Cervera 130 1/4 
lbs
 
(Lightweight— 8 Rounds)

•  Bryce Mills 143 lbs vs. Margarito Hernandez 144 1/4 
lbs
 
(Welterweight — 6/4 Rounds)

•   Floyd Diaz 122 lbs vs. Edwin Rodriguez 121.5 
lbs
 
(Junior Featherweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Brian Norman Jr. 149 lbs vs. Rodrigo Damian Coria 148 1/4 
lbs
 
(Welterweight — 8 Rounds)

•    Bruce Carrington 128 lbs vs. Juan Antonio Lopez 127.5 
lbs
 
(Featherweight — 6 Rounds)

•    Dante Benjamin Jr. 174 lbs vs. Emmanueal Austin 175 
lbs
 
(Light Heavyweight— 6 Rounds)




BILLERICAY MIDDLEWEIGHT GEORGE LIDDARD PENS PROMOTIONAL DEAL WITH MATCHROOM BOXING

Billericay Middleweight prospect George Liddard has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. 
 
The 20-year-old Essex native made a perfect start to life in the paid ranks by halting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Nikola Matic in two rounds on the undercard of Dillian Whyte’s clash with Jermaine Franklin at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November. 
 
As an amateur Liddard represented the Billericay and Wickford ABC and went on to clinch four National Titles and two International Gold Medals during an impressive stint before deciding to turn professional last year. 
 
Trained by two-time Lightweight World Title Challenger and fellow Hammer Kevin Mitchell alongside Tony Sims at the Matchroom Boxing Elite Gym, Liddard wants his dominant debut win to be the start of a special journey in the 160lbs division.
 
“Signing for Matchroom has been my goal  for as long as I can remember,” said Liddard. “For a boy from Billericay to have joined the biggest promotional company in the world, that just happens to be based around the corner from where I’ve grown up, is a dream come true.
 
“With Matchroom and my team of Kevin Mitchell and Tony Sims behind me I’m confident I can go all the way in the sport and fulfil my full potential. I’m very grateful for the opportunity and I’m looking forward to boxing on some big shows and putting on some great performances.”
 
“I’m delighted to welcome talented Middleweight prospect George Liddard to the Matchroom Boxing team,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “George gave us a taster of what he’s all about during his impressive debut win last November and I’m excited to see how his young professional journey develops under the guidance of Kevin Mitchell and Tony Sims. George already enjoys a big following in and around Essex that will only grow as he moves up the levels. We’re looking to get George as active as possible in 2023 and we’ll have news on his next fight dropping soon.”
 
You can follow Liddard’s journey on Instagram: georgeliddard_ and Twitter: @GeorgeLiddard




ADELEYE AND CHAMBERLAIN TOP YORK HALL CARD ON 17 FEB

THE IBF EUROPEAN lightweight champion Mark Chamberlain and heavyweight contender David Adeleye are both in headline action when Queensberry makes a return to York Hall on Friday February 17, live on BT Sport.

The 24-year-old Chamberlain, 11-0 (7 KOs) won his title at Wembley with a shutout 10-round demolition of Marc Vidal in July of last year, before being forced to withdraw from a November defence due to a shoulder injury.

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, 10-0 (9 KOs), fought only twice last year due to injury, but managed to add two stoppages to his KO-count by extinguishing the threat of Chris Healey and Elvis Garcia.

The Ladbroke Grove heavy faces a fellow unbeaten fighter in the Ukrainian Dmytro Bezus, 10-0 (5 KOs), who resides in Liga, Latvia.

The 6ft 6″ 33-year-old last fought in October of last year, recording a fourth round stoppage over Lukas Wacker at the Arena Riga.

Stylish super lightweight Henry Turner (9-0, 2), who won the WBC International Silver title over in Dubai in November, will make a first defence of his belt at York Hall over 10 rounds.

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) will have his second fight under the Queensberry banner, also over four.

Nottingham light heavyweight Ezra Taylor (4-0, 3) will have his second six-rounder after impressively stopping Mohamed Cherif Benchadi last time out in Telford, with Loughton super bantamweight Adan Mohamed (7-0, 2) also fighting over six. Batley super lightweight Amaar Akbar (4-0) and Penge cruiserweight Aloys Junior (2-1, 2) will both fight in four round contests.

“This is a great opportunity for Mark Chamberlain and David Adeleye to enjoy top billing at York Hall,” said promoter Frank Warren. “I expect both of them to really push on this year and reinforce their status as two of the leading prospects in the country and this will be an important night for them after missing out on fights last year due to injury.

“I believe it is a realistic aim for both Mark and David to be hunting down British titles in the near future and I am confident they would be successful in this.

“Henry Turner won his WBC belt on Middle East soil so I am looking forward to him stepping it up in what will be his 10th fight as a pro and it won’t be long before Carl Fail finds himself in the title mix.

“Royston Barney-Smith is now showing us his genuinely elite quality in the ring and this young man is going to be a big force in years to come. I cannot wait to see him back in action.

“I am also looking forward to checking out the progress of Ezra Taylor, Amaar Akbar, Adan Mohamed and Aloys Jr, who are all showing promising signs and are quickly becoming ones to watch. “

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




ZAK IS BACK! CHELLI STEPS UP IN BET365 ‘WILD CARD’ FIGHT AGAINST ‘MAGICIAN’ ANTHONY SIMS JR ON FEBRUARY 11

London, England (Jan 13, 2023) – Zak is back! Super-middleweight Zak Chelli will return to action on February 11 at the OVO Arena in London when he takes on the ‘Magician’ Anthony Sims Jr.

This hugely-exciting international ‘Wild Card’ contest – in association with headline event partners bet365 – joins an action-packed card in the capital, headlined by Adam Azim.

English super-middleweight champion Chelli (12-1-1, 6 KOs) celebrated a unanimous points victory over Germaine Brown on his last outing at Wembley in June 2022.

He was set to defend his title last November at Alexandra Palace before his opponent Lerrone Richards was forced to withdraw at the 11th hour.

Now Londoner Chelli, who has high aspirations of making big strides in the 168lb division this year, faces a huge step up against the tough American knockout specialist. 

Sims Jr (23-1-0, 20 KOs), stands at 6ft 1in, has stopped 20 of his 24 opponents,  won the WBA Inter-Continental super-middleweight title in 2021 and he is a cousin of the legendary Floyd Mayweather Jr.

The 27-year-old from Indiana is renowned for his destructive and devastating power with an impressive 20 KOs on his resume. And Chelli insists this is a fight fans in London will not want to miss.

Chelli said: “After the disappointment of not fighting last November, it’s great to be back at the OVO Arena in Wembley.

“This will be a really good fight for me. I’m training hard and I want to make a big impact on the division this year.

“I’m looking forward to taking on an experienced man from overseas in Sims Jr and stealing the show!”

Hassan Azim is back too – and is on a mission to underline his incredible talent this year.

Elder brother of Adam, undefeated Azim (5-0, 2 KOs) put on a brilliant performance last November when he outclassed Nestor Amukoto at Alexandra Palace with a comfortable points victory to cap a hugely successful 2022.

The popular welterweight prospect won all four of his fights last year and he’ll be keen to create his own headlines when he launches his campaign in London – live in the UK & Republic of Ireland on Sky Sports Boxing. An opponent will be named in due course.

Joining the bill is the ‘Wanderer’, Jordan Reynolds. The Luton-based super-welterweight (4-0, 1 KO) was successful on his most recent visit to Wembley’s iconic arena when he outclassed Jose Manuel Lopez Clavero in a majority points victory last October.

And Iranian featherweight prospect ‘Razor Ali’ (6-0) will be keen to showcase his sharp skills in the capital too. Ali – full name Alireza Ghadiri – is unbeaten in six previous fights and will be keen to add his first stoppage in what will be his seventh professional fight.

Adam ‘The Assassin’ Azim headlines against undefeated Santos Reyes (12-0, 3 KO’s).

With six consecutive stoppage victories – including November’s stunning two-round demolition of the highly-regarded Rylan Charlton – BBC Young Fighter of the Year, Azim has now established himself as the world’s leading lightweight prospect and considered by many as a future world champion after his breakthrough year in 2022. 

Azim’s McGuigan’s Gym stablemate ‘Sweet’ Caroline Dubois (5-0, 4 KO’s) takes a big step up on February 11 when she faces the highly-experienced Argentinian national champion Yamila Belen Abellaneda (15-5-1, 3 KO’s).

Best known to British fight fans for her WBA Intercontinental title battle with Natasha Jonas’ arch-rival Terri Harper in March last year, Abellaneda – who has successfully defended her Argentina national title four times since winning it in December 2020 – is making her second visit to the UK next month.

The English Middleweight Championship will be on the line when newly-crowned champion Tyler Denny (15-2-3) makes his first defence against undefeated Cornwall man Brad Pauls (16-0, 9 KO’s). 

Viddal Riley (7-0, 4 KOs) marked himself out as a rising threat in the stacked cruiserweight division in 2022. On February 11, he turns his attention to Anees Taj (7-2-0, 5 KOs).




King’s Promotions Fighters Highlight Non-Televised Undercard on Friday, January 20th at The Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, PA

Bethlehem, PA – January 13, 2023 – King’s Promotions fighters will be on full display as part of the non-televised undercard of a SHOBOX: The New Generation® card on Friday night, January 20th at The Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

The first bout starts at 6:45 PM ET.

Local bantamweight, Jonathan Rodriguez will take on 51-fight veteran Ira Terry in a bout scheduled six-round bout.

Rodriguez from Bethlehem, PA, is promoted by King’s Promotions, and is 12-1-1 with four knockouts. The 23 year-old Rodriguez will be making his sixth start at the Wind Creek Event Center, has a win over Oscar Vazquez (15-3-1) and in his last bout, Rodriguez stopped Nestor Robledo in three rounds on December 10, 2022 in Philadelphia.

Terry of Memphis, Tennessee is 28-23 with 16 knockouts. The 35 year-old has fought world champions Jorge Linares and Claudio Marrero. Terry has wins over Robbie Cannon (10-0-1), Leon Bobo (18-2-1), Verquan Kimbrough (21-4-3), Kenneth Taylor (11-1-2) and his last bout when he won a unanimous decision over Vit Y on December 10, 2022 in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

King’s Promotions streaking fighter, undefeated lightweight James Bernadin will take on Clay Burns in a six-round lightweight bout.

Bernadin of Lancaster, PA is 9-0-1 with six knockouts. The 30 year-old Bernadin has defeated quality opposition such as Osvaldo Morales (4-0), Edgar Torres (8-2-1), Kenny Robles (9-1) and his last outing when he stopped William Parra Smith on December 10, 2022 in Philadelphia.

Burns of Fort Worth, Texas is 10-15-2 with four knockouts. Burns has solid wins on his resume over Yovani Rodarte (10-1-1) and Dartrell Smith (4-1).

Moses Johnson (9-0-1, 7 KOs) of Huntington, NY fights Terrell Woods (28-55-9, 20 KOs) of Houston, Texas in a heavyweight bout.

In Four-round Bouts:

King’s Promotions welterweight, Thanjhae Teasley (4-0, 2 KOs) of Bethlehem, PA fights Joe Sambrano (4-16-2, 2 KOs) of Pleasanton, Texas.

Prized amateur Francis Oran of Bethlehem, PA takes on Marlon Haywood of Kankakee, Illinois in a heavyweight bout. Oran is co-promoted by King’s Promotions and Jeter Promotions.

Henrich Ruiz Cordoba (1-0, 1 KO) of Las Vegas fights Armondo Reeves (3-10-2) of Jefferson City, Mississippi in heavyweight fight.

In the main event, super middleweight prospect Sean Hemphill (14-0, 8 KOs) faces off against David Stevens (11-0, 8 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight bout. In the co-main event, Atif Oberlton (7-0, 6 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Artem Brusov (12-0, 11 KOs) of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., in an eight-round light heavyweight bout. The telecast opener pits two up-and-coming Pennsylvania fighters as Reading’s Julian Gonzalez (8-0-1, 8 KOs) and Rosalindo Morales (9-0, 2 KOs), from Ellwood City, put their unbeaten streaks to the test in an eight-round super featherweight bout.

The tripleheader will air LIVE ON SHOWTIME® at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

Tickets are $150. $100, $75 and $50 and can be purchased by clicking:

https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/02005D87C94E4E6A




Fernando Vargas Jr. and Amado Fernando Vargas Sign Promotional Contracts with MarvNation Promotions

POMONA, Calif. (Jan. 12, 2023) – Fernando Vargas Jr. and Amado “El Malvado” Fernando Vargas, sons of former world champion Fernando “El Feroz” Vargas, have signed promotional contracts with MarvNation Promotions. The two were on hand at the Derby Room in Pomona, Calif. today to announce their signing to the media.

The two rising prospects will return to the ring on Feb. 11 as part of MarvNation’s “BoxFest” series at the aforementioned venue. More details regarding the card will be announced soon. 

“I’m excited to be kicking the year off with this important announcement,” said Marvin Rodriguez, Founder and CEO of MarvNation Promotions. “Fernando Vargas Jr. is an exciting super welterweight who is coming off a spectacular knockout victory, while Amado Fernando Vargas is a rising featherweight who is coming off a dominant win as well. Both fought on MarvNation’s Prograis-Zepeda card and looked amazing. By signing these two warriors, we are demonstrating our commitment to continue making MarvNation the fastest growing promotional company in the sport.”

“It’s a beautiful moment,” said Fernando Vargas, Sr. “I’m happy, and I’m excited to be here with MarvNation. It’s a great fit. Marv is a great guy. He’s a good dude. I love the fact that he’s going to be busy. I need consistency for my boys. And I know that with MarvNation we’re going to get it.”

“We did the Prograis vs. Zepeda card with MarvNation. And they treated us like family,” said Fernando Vargas Jr. “From the hotels to anything that we needed, any questions. They were attentive. So, it made sense. They shot their proposal to our management. And it’s the best fit for our family.”

“I want to thank the whole MarvNation team for believing in the Dynasty,” said Amado Fernando Vargas. “I can’t wait. My father has the blueprint. We’re just continuing the legacy. I’m thankful to MarvNation. I’m thankful to Marvin for believing in us. We can’t wait to be able to show our boxing skills and advance in boxing.”

Fernando Vargas Jr. is a 26-year-old undefeated southpaw who made his professional debut in December of 2020. He spent his first four fights fighting outside of the United States, scoring three wins in Mexico and one in Puerto Rico. In February 2022, he made his debut in the United States with a devastating knockout win over Kody Koboski on the undercard of Keith Thurman vs. Mario Barrios. Since then, he has maintained an impeccable record, stopping each and every one of his opponents.

Amado “El Malvado” Fernando Vargas is a 22-year-old featherweight who burst onto the scene with a first-round knockout win over Hector Montijo Molina in Mexico. Since then, he has remained undefeated and has impressed with performances on important cards such as the Sergey Kovalev vs. Tervel Pulev and Regis Prograis vs. Jose Zepeda undercards. Both he and his older brother are ready to take their careers to the next level.

# # #

About MarvNation Promotions

MarvNation Promotions was founded in 2014 by Marvin Rodriguez and was created with a vision to not only create concerts or boxing events, but to also create experiences for the fans. In 2018, after noticing a lack of support for many young and hungry prospects without an extensive Olympic and amateur background, MarvNation involved itself in the sport of boxing with a mission to make a way for these young prospects and develop them into top contenders and champions in the sport. Established both on a national and international level, MarvNation is here to bring you the best of boxing and live entertainment. 

For more information, visit www.MarvNation.com. Follow on Instagram and on Twitter @Marvnation_.




Reyes Boxing Promotions’ Rodrigo Coria challenges unbeaten Brian Norman Jr. on ESPN card

Salem, MA (January 12, 2023) – Welterweight Rodrigo “El Zurdo” Coria will face undefeated knockout artist Brian “The Assassin II” Norman Jr. Saturday, January 14 at the Turning Stone Resort & Casino in Verona, NY.

Fighting out of Argentina, the 5’10 southpaw is 10-4 with 2 wins by knockout. In his last three bouts, Coria defeated Jose Alberto Vargas (7-0) and Adrian Marcelo (16-2) then dropped a controversial decision against Peter Dobson (15-0).

Hailing from Conyers, GA, Norman’s 22-0 with 19 victories coming by KO. For Norman, whose been out of the ring since December 2021, Coria represents a step up in competition.

“This is a great opportunity for Rodrigo to showcase his skills on a big platform,” said Coria’s promoter Mike Reyes of Reyes Boxing Promotions. “Norman’s a big puncher with a great record but Rodrigo’s extremely motivated for this fight and plans to hand him his first loss on Saturday night!”

Coria-Norman is scheduled for eight rounds and takes place on a big Top Rank card. The action begins at 5:30 PM ET on ESPN+ and shifts over to ESPN & ESPN Deportes at 10 PM.

For more information on Reyes Boxing Promotions, visit Reyesboxingclub.com. 




 Press Conference Notes: Efe Ajagba-Stephan Shaw & Guido Vianello-Jonnie Rice

VERONA, N.Y. (Jan. 12, 2023) — The Top Rank on ESPN 2023 schedule kicks off with a heavyweight doubleheader Saturday at Turning Stone Resort Casino.

In the 10-round main event, thunderous puncher Efe Ajagba (16-1, 13 KOs) looks upend the unbeaten run of St. Louis native Stephan “Big Shot” Shaw (18-0, 13 KOs).

The 10-round co-feature sees 2016 Italian Olympian Guido “The Gladiator” Vianello (10-0-1, 9 KOs) stepping up against noted spoiler Jonnie Rice (15-6-1, 10 KOs). Ajagba-Shaw and Vianello-Rice will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m ET/7 p.m. PT. 

The undercard — streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+ at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:3-0 p.m. PT — features a 50/50 junior lightweight bout between contenders Abraham “El Super” Nova (21-1, 15 KOs) and Adam “BluNose” Lopez (16-3, 6 KOs), upstate New York-born junior welterweight prospect Bryce Mills (10-1, 4 KOs), and Brooklyn-born featherweight sensation Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (5-0, 3 KOs).

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

Efe Ajagba

“I have the name ‘The Silent Roller’ because I don’t talk much. Since I came back from my surgery, I’ve tried to do everything to fight more. That’s why I only had one fight last year. I’ve been trying to get more fights.”

“I’ve made adjustments for Saturday night. We’ll see how it goes. I’m ready for him. I wanted to fight Oscar Rivas before. But that changed. But now Shaw has the opportunity to fight me.”
 
“It means a lot to me to represent my country. I just want to be like them [Samuel Peter and Henry Akinwande]. Ever since I started boxing, I’ve tried to be like them.”
 
“I’m ready to put on a show. I’m going to put more pressure. I can’t wait. I’m so excited to be here.”

Stephan Shaw

“I want to thank God for giving me this opportunity. To have that pedigree behind me—that carries me. That’s my foundation, and I go off that. St. Louis has a rich history of boxing. And I feel like right now I’m the pride of St. Louis. I’m looking to continue that legacy of having great world champions represent St. Louis, Missouri.”
 
“I’ve got God on my side. God makes all the situations that I have faced in my entire career and He has made it work. I have faced adversity that the average man wouldn’t be able to deal with. Coming from St. Louis, beating the odds and being on this stage to have my moment. I feel great. I’m excited.”
 
“I’m a third-generation fighter. I’m looking to become a world champion. Saturday night, I’m going to make my mark.”

Guido Vianello

“I was happy to fight in my country, but I’m happy to fight here as well because America is my second home. My last opponent was very tough. I got him with a lot of punches. It was incredible because I have my gladiator style and he had a wild style. So, it was good for the Italian people.”
 
“Jonnie has a lot of experience, more than me. But I’m ready. I’ve been training very hard. I’ve been training very hard for four years since I moved to the USA. I train all the time to fight in a war, so I’m ready for this.”

Jonnie Rice

“This means the world to me right now. It’s another chance to beat another undefeated fighter. And that’s what’s on my mind. I’m going to go in there and beat him.”
 
“A big reason I moved to Las Vegas is to constantly be in the mindset of boxing, constantly be in the mindset of the grind. I’ve had the great chance to work with a lot of heavyweight warriors who came through Vegas and kept me rejuvenated and constantly inspired. I really don’t think that ring rust will play a part.”

Abraham Nova

“Every fight is a must-win fight. There’s not a fight that I take for granted. This is a good opportunity for me to showcase my skills and move up in the rankings.”
 
“I took a lot of things from the defeat {to Robeisy Ramirez}. But the main thing I learned is that I have to be more healthy as a fighter and do the right things as a fighter. I just need to be more healthy. It was a good opportunity, and a win here will put me in a better position for bigger fights.”

Adam Lopez

“This is a big fight for me. I’m moving up to the next weight class. I fought at 130 before when I fought Oscar [Valdez], but now I’m officially a 130-pounder. I feel like I’ve grown into it. It’s definitely a big fight. Nova and I are kind of in the same spot with our careers. He needs it, and I need it. I’m excited for it. It’s definitely, in my eyes, a Fight of the Year candidate type of fight.”
 
Bryce Mills

“I’m blessed. It’s been three and a half years since I’ve fought at home. It’s a great opportunity. I’m really excited. There’s nothing like that hometown support and that hometown energy when you’re in the ring. It adds a different level of intensity and enthusiasm to the fight.” 

Saturday, January 14

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

 
Efe Ajagba vs. Stephan Shaw, 10 rounds, Heavyweight

Guido Vianello vs. Jonnie Rice, 10 rounds, Heavyweight

ESPN+ (5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT)

Abraham Nova vs. Adam Lopez, 10 rounds, Junior Lightweight

Haven Brady Jr. vs. Ruben Cervera, 8 rounds, Junior Lightweight

Bryce Mills vs. Margarito Hernandez, 6/4 rounds, Junior Welterweight

Floyd Diaz vs. Edwin Rodriguez, 8 rounds, Junior Featherweight 

Brian Norman Jr. vs. Rodrigo Damian Coria, 8 rounds, Welterweight 

Bruce Carrington vs. Juan Antonio Lopez, 6 rounds, Featherweight

Dante Benjamin Jr. vs. Emmanueal Austin, 6 rounds, Light Heavyweight




Mass. Middleweight Champion Anthony Andreozzi fights in the danger zone

QUINCY, Mass. (January 12, 2023) – Newly crowned Massachusetts Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (4-2, 1 KO) will make his first title defense on the “Turf War 4”card, presented by Granite Chin Promotions (GCP), February 18th at Melrose Memorial Hall in Melrose, Massachusetts.

Andreozzi, who captured the vacant title last November with a 6-round majority decision in Bridgewater (MA) versus Julien Baptiste, faces challenger Jamer Jones (2-1, 2 KOs), of Pittsfield (MA), in the 6-round main event.

“Turf War 4”, which will be streamed live on BXNGTV.com, will mark Granite Chin’s first promotion in Melrose, which is located in Greater Boston.

“Anthony has gone from an 0-2 guy nobody knew or cared about to one of the more exciting guys on the Massachusetts scene,” GCP President Chris Traietti commented. “He’s a gusty guy. There’s no other way to put it. He is willing to fight all the guys in the area and earn his keep. Nothing has been given to him, it has been earned. On February 18th, he’s going to have a 6’ 3” opponent in front of him who is athletic. It’ll be interesting to see what adjustments Anthony can make. It is going to be two polar opposite styles in the ring, which usually makes for an exciting fight.”

Andreozzi, of Swansea (MA), marches to a different beat in boxing. “I really like danger, the more dangerous the opponent, the better,” he explained. “I like a challenge. I’m more comfortable each fight with chaos; the harder, the better. Defending my title has no effect on me because I don’t fight for belts. I took a few pictures and gave the belt to my coach.  I out dogged my opponent in the last fight. He was confident in his jab, but I took his away. Confidence can betray you sometimes.

“I took a year off and now I’m back. I heard my opponent is a gym boxer; he looks good punching, but he’s not tough. He beat two nobodies and was knocked out in his last fight by a bum. I made a promise to my wife because the fight is too close to Valentine’s Day and I’m cutting weight. We can’t go out for dinner, but I promised her a special gift: I’m going to make him quit! Whether it’s on the stool or in the ring, he won’t be able to go the distance with me.”

The reported 6’ 3” Jones, of course, doesn’t agree with Andreozzi’s bold prediction. He didn’t have much of an amateur career with only 13 matches. He played baseball and basketball but started boxing because of his pent-up aggression that he can use in the ring.

“I’ve been out of the ring almost a year,” Jones remarked, “but I’m confident going into this fight. I’m confident in my skills and ability. It’s going to be a good fight. I saw my opponent fight my friend, Carlos Castillo (Nov. 2021), and I was at his last fight. He came in on the B side and made his way to a belt.

“I was an aggressive guy before, but I’m going back to boxing more to take advantage of my abilities. I’m not concerned about a 6-round fight for the first time because I usually spar 6 or more rounds. I just need to come in ready and confident. An impressive ability will help me climb the ladder and move forward with my career.”

Former New England Heavyweight Champion Justin “Crazy Train” Rolfe (7-4-1, 5 KOs), fighting out of Fairfield, ME, returns to the ring for the first time in 10 months to bang with Jonathan Gruber (3-1, 2 KOs), of Fall River, MA., in the 6-round, co-featured event for the vacant USBF title.

Another former New England Champion, welterweight Mike “Bad Man” Ohan, Jr. (16-2, 9 KOs), of Holbrook (MA), will be in a bounce back fight after his impressive performance this past December at famed Madison Square Garden, albeit in a loss to undefeated U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson (7-0, KOs).. Ohan’s opponent is in a scheduled 10-round welterweight match with veteran  Puerto Rican fighter Daniel “The Hudson Valley Kid” Sostre (13-22-1, 5 KOs).

Indian welterweight Vaibhav Singh “Ahir Boxer” Yadav (9-2, 7 KOs) will make his U.S. debut against William Parra Smith (4-13-1, 3 KOs), of Alaska, in a 6-round bout. Yadav is a former WBC Asia Silver and Asian Boxing Federation welterweight champion.

Also fighting on the undercard in a pair of 4-rounders is New Jersey welterweight Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (16-19-4, 12 KOs), the former ABF USA Mid-American super lightweight title holder, versus an opponent to be determined; and Framingham (MA) cruiserweight Kevin “Lucky” Lewis (0-1) vs. Jeremiah David Austin (0-1), of Woburn (MA).

Tickets are on sale and priced (plus fees) at $70.00 (VIP Stage Seating), $60.00 (General Floor Seating) and $45.00 (General Auditorium Seating). Go online to purchase at https://granite-chin-promotions.ticketleap.com/ or from any of the participating fighters.

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

INFORMATION :  

www,granite-chin-promotions.com

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin




Sampson Boxing Signs Undefeated Dominican Prospect Raul Garcia to a Promotional Contract

Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of Dominican super welterweight prospect Raul Garcia to a promotional contract.

An excellent puncher with fast hands, 24-year-old Garcia (12-0, 10 KOs) of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, had over 150 amateur fights before turning professional in May 2021 and quickly rattling off a dozen impressive victories over domestic competition, including taking the undefeated 0 of countryman Francisco Ernesto Sanchez. He was last seen in December 2022, stopping then 22-3 veteran Angel Yomar Mateo in six rounds. Garcia says he began to dream of becoming a world champion after meeting the great Oscar De La Hoya as a young amateur.

“I know that my career will take off with my promoter Sampson and manager Cesar “Manguita” Mercedes in charge of my direction,” said a happy Garcia. “I can’t wait to be in the kind of big fights I used to watch on television as a youngster. I believe I belong with the best in the division.”

Lewkowicz, who is known for discovering hidden talents, has teamed up with Mercedes to introduce several future Dominican world champions, including Javier Fortuna and Jeison Rosario, among others. A keen eye for talent, Lewkowicz says Garcia will quickly become another top fighter he and Manguita are credited for bringing to the world stage.

“I have been very impressed by Raul Garcia since his amateur career and have watched his development through every fight. Now it is time for the next level,” said Lewkowicz. “I’m happy to again be partnering with Cesar Mercedes to help lift up the Dominican Republic’s many great unknown fighters for years and Raul Garcia is the next top Dominican fighter on the way to the top.”

“Sampson is my long-time partner in bringing talented Dominican fighters to American television and they are going to love the exciting style of Raul Garcia,” added manager “Manguita” Mercedes. “He is training hard every day to become the next champion from the Dominican.”
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.




March 25: Jose Ramirez-Richard Commey Junior Welterweight Main Event & Seniesa Estrada-Tina Rupprecht Title Unification Showdown Set for Fresno’s Save Mart Center LIVE on ESPN

FRESNO, Calif. (Jan. 12, 2023) — The fighting pride of California’s Central Valley and one of boxing’s pound-for-pound queens are joining forces for a special Fresno Fight Night.
 
Former unified 140-pound world champion Jose Ramirez will meet former lightweight world champion Richard “RC” Commey in the 12-round junior welterweight main event Saturday, March 25, at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California.
 
The co-feature will be a world title unification clash, as WBA minimumweight world champion Seniesa “Super Bad” Estrada collides with WBC world champion Tina Rupprecht.

Ramirez-Commey and Estrada-Rupprecht will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
 
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $29 go on sale go on sale Friday, Jan. 13 at 10 a.m. PT and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and the Arena Box Office.
 
Ramirez (27-1, 17 KOs), from Avenal, California, returns home to the friendly confines of the Save Mart Center, which has hosted six of his previous fights. Following his 2021 decision defeat to Josh Taylor for the undisputed junior welterweight title, Ramirez rebounded last March with a unanimous decision victory over former two-weight world champion Jose Pedraza. He has been among the sport’s best 140-pounders since winning the WBC world title over Amir Imam in March 2018. After defending that title twice, Ramirez stopped Maurice Hooker in six brutal rounds to unify the WBC and WBO titles. Ramirez retained both belts with a hard-fought majority decision over Viktor Postol in August 2020, a win that set up the Taylor showdown. 
 
“Fresno and the Save Mart Center hold a special place in my heart, and I am blessed to be able fight in front of my Central Valley fans once again,” Ramirez said. “Richard Commey is a championship fighter with everything to gain. I expect the best version of Commey on March 25. My goal is to become champion again, and I am more motivated than ever to prove that I am the best junior welterweight in the world.”
 
“Ramirez is motivated like I have never seen, and he’s out to prove some things,” said Rick Mirigian, Ramirez’s manager. “It all starts in Fresno in front of 15,000 hometown fans.”
 
Commey (30-4-1, 27 KOs), from Accra, Ghana, made his name as one of the sport’s top lightweights, winning Commonwealth honors before capturing the IBF world title in February 2019. His title reign lasted 10 months, as he knocked out former world champion Ray Beltran before a stunning second-round stoppage defeat to Teofimo Lopez at Madison Square Garden. Commey’s lightweight run ended with a December 2021 decision loss to Vasiliy Lomachenko. Last August, in his junior welterweight debut, he fought to a 10-round draw against Pedraza.
 
Commey said, “I want to thank my team for putting me on the path to fulfilling my dream of becoming a two-weight world champion. I also want to thank Bob Arum and Top Rank for once again showing faith in me by allowing me to headline against a formidable opponent in Jose Ramirez. I’m up for the challenge, and I intend to make Ghana and all my fans around the world proud.”
 
Estrada (23-0, 9 KOs), from East Los Angeles, California, returns to her home state intent on unifying world titles for the first time in her decorated career. The 30-year-old veteran turned pro nearly a dozen years ago and has competed at the world class level in three weight classes. In 2021, she captured the WBA minimumweight and WBO light flyweight titles in consecutive fights. Estrada then vacated the light flyweight title to pursue undisputed glory at minimumweight. She signed with Top Rank last year and returned from a nearly 11-month layoff in November to shut out Jazmin Gala Villarino.
 
“I want to give Tina credit for being a world champion who isn’t afraid of a unification fight, unlike Yokasta Valle,” Estrada said. “Since we couldn’t get Yokasta into the ring, we decided to do one better and fight the woman who beat her. The Fresno fans are passionate, and they are in for a great show.”
 
Rupprecht (12-0-1, 3 KOs), from Augsburg, Germany, has made five defenses of her world title after being elevated from interim champion in 2018. Earlier that year, she toppled Valle, who is the current IBF and WBO unified minimumweight world champion In July 2021, Rupprecht edged former world champion Katia Gutierrez by split decision. Following more than a year away from the ring, she shook off the ring rust to dominate Peruvian veteran Rocio Gaspar to set up the Estrada showdown. Rupprecht has fought all but one of her pro bouts in Germany and will make the nearly 6,000-mile journey in hopes of ruining Estrada’s undisputed goal.
 
“To fight in America against a fellow world champion in a world title unification is a dream come true for me,” Rupprecht said. “Seniesa is considered one of the sport’s best fighters, and I look forward to seeing who is the true number one in the division. This will be a Fight of the Year candidate and another huge night for female boxing. I’m going to be victorious and return to Germany with two world title belts.”
 
The undercard, streaming live and exclusively on ESPN+, is scheduled to include the following standouts:

Lightweight contender Raymond “Danger” Muratalla (16-0, 13 KOs), from Fontana, California, and trained by Robert Garcia, makes his 2023 debut in a 10-rounder. Muratalla went 3-0 in 2022, including stoppage victories over veterans Jeremy Hill and Miguel Contreras.
 
Rising lightweight Karlos Balderas (14-1, 12 KOs), a 2016 U.S. Olympian from Santa Maria, California, looks to author his sixth consecutive victory in an eight-rounder. Balderas is coming off a career-best showing over Esteban Sanchez, a methodical beatdown that resulted in an eighth-round TKO.
 
Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (6-0, 6 KOs), a 6-foot-9 heavyweight from Des Moines, Iowa, aims for knockout number seven in a six-rounder. Mireles has three first-round knockouts and three second-round stoppages on his ledger.
 
Lightweight prospect Charlie Sheehy (5-0, 4 KOs), the former U.S. amateur star from Brisbane, California, makes his third professional appearance in Fresno in a six-rounder.
 
Javier “Milwaukee Made” Martinez (8-0, 2 KOs), who trains with Ramirez at Robert Garcia Boxing Academy, will fight an opponent to be named in a six-round middleweight tilt.
 
Flyweight prospect Jessie James Guerrero (3-0-1, 3 KOs), from Gilroy, California, will see action in a four-rounder in his U.S. debut.




UNDEFEATED MEXICAN PROSPECT OSCAR ALVAREZ JR. FACES TOUGHEST TEST TO DATE ON JANURAY 25 AGAINST DOMINICAN NICOLAS POLANCO STREAMED LIVE ON PROBOX TV

Plant City, FL – January 12, 2023  —  Oscar Alvarez Jr. is undeafeated as a professional, owner of a stellar amateur 665-12 record, stands 6’ 3”, and will be fighting in an eight-round featherweight bout against former WBA Fedalatin Featherweight Champion Nicolas Polanco, on Wednesday, January 25 at the Whitesands Events Center in Plant City, Florida, streamed live on ProBox TV and the ProBox app.  

“I’m so thankful for this opportunity on PROBOX TV,” said Alvarez. “Polanco is a very tough and durable opponent. He’s fought world champions and just went the distance with the Number 4 contender. My game plan is always the same – control the fight from the beginning and dominate my opponent until the end.”

The Alvarez Jr vs Polanco clash will be the co-feature to the main event of the evening. In the main eventvacant WBO Latino Super Lightweight title will be on the line when undefeated Cesar “Rainman” Francis battles Jesus “Junior” Saracho for a scheduled ten-rounds.

The ProBox TV monthly subscription is $1.99. 

Tickets, starting at $50, can be purchased at Eventbrite.com HERE.  Plant City, Florida is just east of Tampa.

Oscar Alvarez Jr (7-0, 7 KOs), born and raised in Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico,, began boxing at the age of 4 under the tutelage of his father and current trainer Oscar Alvarez Sr. His fourteen-year amateur career culminated with back-to-back 2019 and ’20 Mexican Championship Gold Medals and a Bronze in the Pan Am Games. He made a splash in his pro debut on September 11, 2021 with a first round stoppage. 

Nicolas “La Pantera” Polanco (20-3, 11 KOs) from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, made his pro debut and won his first seventeen professional fights. On September 26, 2015, he won the WBA Fedalatin featherweight title. Polanco stands 5’8”.

Cesar Francis (12-0, 7 KOs) from Brooklyn, NY via San Miguelito, Panama is coming off consecutive wins against former world champion Reymundo Beltran, winning the WBO NABO super lightweight title, and followed that with a big knockout win against once-beaten Francisco Armenta. 

Jesus Saracho (12-1, 11 KOs) from Guadalajara, Mexico, won the WBO Youth lightweight title in only his seventh professional fight and defended that belt once. Saracho has since won the WBO Latino lightweight title, and the NABO lightweight title. He is coming off two consecutive knockout wins.

Upcoming PROBOX TV fight card stream schedule: Wednesday, Feb. 8 (MX City), Wednesday Feb 22, Wednesday March 8 (MX City), Wednesday March 22, Wednesday April 5 (MX City), Wednesday April 19, Wednesday, May 17. All in Plant City unless otherwise noted.

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

Get the App HERE




ATLANTIC CITY BOXING HALL OF FAME ANNOUNCES CLASS OF 2023

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (January 12, 2023) — Today the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame (ACBHOF), announced the twenty (24) Honorees selected for Induction into its Hall of Fame: the 7th Annual Awards & Induction Weekend will be held Friday September 29th, through Sunday October 1st, 2023, at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City

2023 INDUCTION CLASS:

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 FIGHTERS: George Foreman, Shannon Briggs, David Tua, Pinklon Thomas, Tracy Harris Patterson, Doug Dewitt, Darroll Wilson, Shamone Alvarez and Jamillia Lawrence.

CONTRIBUTORS:  Arnold Robbins {Trainer & Manager}, Matt Howard {Advisor}, Joe Hand Sr.{Promoter}, Lee Samuels {Public Relations} Rudy Battle{Referee}, Benyj Esteves Jr.{Referee} and Joseph Santoliquito{Media}

POSTHUMOUSLY: Buster Drayton {Fighter} and Marty Feldman{Trainer & Manager}

PIONEERS: Horace M. Leeds {Fighter}, Joe Miller {Promoter}, Rocky Castellani {Fighter/ Official}, “KO” Becky O’Niell {Manager}, Willie O’Niell {Trainer} and Frankie Polo {Fighter}

“We are extremely excited about this newest class of inductees selected for the “2023” Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame, and very much looking forward to honoring this esteemed group of individuals who have helped make Atlantic City a recognized boxing Mecca known around the world.” – Ray McCline, ACBHOF President & Founder

The Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Awards & Induction Weekend will offer boxing enthusiasts a weekend full of excellent programming, including a VIP cocktail reception, meet & greets with the legends, and a fight fan experience that features spectacular artwork, exhibits, and boxing memorabilia. The highlight of the weekend is our Induction red-carpet ceremony which takes place in an award-show atmosphere.

“We are excited to host the 7th annual Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame Awards and Induction Weekend,” said Mike Woodside, Vice President of Entertainment and Marketing Services at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. “This impressive group of inductees has strong ties to Atlantic City, including George Foreman who fought his last professional fight here at Etess Arena against fellow inductee Shannon Briggs.”

“So many historic fights were in Atlantic City. I’m very proud to be inducted into the A. C. Boxing Hall of Fame.” – George Foreman

“Atlantic City is where I started my humble boxing career. Atlantic City showed me love and will always have a place in my heart. I’m honored to be inducted into the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame 2023 Class.” – David Tua

A special thanks to our partners, sponsors and supporters: Mayor Marty Small Sr., City of Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Boardwalk Resorts, Casino Reinvestment Development Authority, Atlantic City Sports Commission, Sparbar Ltd, Expressions Graphic Designs, Icons of Boxing Memorabilia, Adams Boxing, Sampson Boxing, WBC, IBF, Fight Night Apparel, CM 3D Crystal’s, Chris Guzman Gloves and Patrick Killian Arts.

For more information, visit the Atlantic City Boxing Hall of Fame’s website at: www.acbhof.com




Healthy and healed, Gonzalez ready to conquer featherweight division

Uncasville, CT – Bad news, featherweights: Irvin Gonzalez Jr. is back and finally healthy as he enters his prime.

The Worcester, MA, native returns to the ring for the first time in 13 months on Saturday, January 21 as CES Boxing opens its 2023 season with Winter Brawl at Mohegan Sun Arena.

The 26-year-old Gonzalez (15-3, 11 KOs), a decorated amateur who competed in the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials, made one of the most difficult, yet beneficial, decisions of his career in 2022 when he sat out the entire year to fully recover from two major surgeries.

In January of 2022, doctors repaired an elbow injury that had been bothering him for years. In April, he had surgery on his hand, another setback that all but derailed his chances of fighting again before the end of the year. The surgery on his elbow was his third; the difference this time was he didn’t halt the recovery process to rush back into the ring.

The end result is a healthier, happier, and well-rested Gonzalez who is mentally and physically ready to make his move in the 126-pound division.

“This is the first time I’ve been injury-free in a long time,” Gonzalez said. “In the past when I had injuries, there was always a worry in the back of my mind that something would go wrong. Now I don’t have to worry.

“I took the time to heal completely and mentally I’m in such a better placed now. I’m going into my prime years fully healed.”

A fully-healed Gonzalez in his mid-20s could be a game-changer in the featherweight division. At his peak, Gonzalez breezed through his weight class, turning pro at the age of 20 and winning his first 12 fights. After signing with CES in 2019, Gonzalez began his resurgence with back-to-back knockout wins, including a thrilling victory over Yeuri Andujar to capture the WBC Youth title in February of 2020.

Then the pandemic hit, which kept Gonzalez inactive for nine months until he starred on the undercard of the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones extravaganza, narrowly losing to Edward Vazquez in what may have been the fight of the night.

Gonzalez was supposed to return the following summer at CES’ groundbreaking outdoor show in Rhode Island, but the elbow injury flared up, forcing him to withdraw from his scheduled WBC USNBC title bout. Against Adan Ochoa. Gonzalez remained on the shelf until December of 2021 when he beat the dangerous Yeison Vargas in Orlando, another 13-month layoff between bouts.

The obvious goal in 2023 is to be more prolific and remain as active as ever, perhaps enough to line up a major opportunity before the end of the year. Gonzalez fought four times in 2019, but has also stepped in the ring three times in the last three years.

“I want to come out this year on a major note. I want fight after fight after fight,” Gonzalez said. “Hopefully, I get the fights I need to get back to where I’m supposed to be and by the end the year hopefully be in the conversation for something big.”

The injuries were as big a setback mentality as they were physically; a skilled athlete his entire life, Gonzalez played football, baseball, and soccer and ran cross country in high school, but never suffered physical ailments until he dove deeper into boxing – the sport he chose to pursue over the others. Having boxed since the age of 8, the sudden inability to perform at his best was a bitter pill to swallow for Gonzalez.

“It definitely got frustrating, especially after the first surgery,” he said. “When I had to go back a second time knowing it wasn’t fixed, that was tough from a mental standpoint. You try to tell yourself you’re not injured, but I knew I had to get right physically.”

With the surgeries behind him, Gonzalez could be one of boxing’s breakthrough stars in 2023. The journey begins January 21 in what might be the biggest fight of Gonzalez’s career – a new lease on life in the squared circle with the much-needed peace of mind to succeed.

Winter Brawl is headlined by heavyweight “The Sicilian Nightmare” Juiseppe Cusumano (21-4, 19 KOs) facing “The Hungarian Hammer” Istvan Bernath (10-1, 8 KOs) in the 10-round main event and the long-awaited return of Stamford, CT, light middleweight Chordale Booker (17-1, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showcase against 37-fight veteran Angel Hernandez (17-17-3, 11 KOs).

The event also features super featherweight Alejandro Paulino (11-0, 9 KOs) putting his undefeated record on the line in a six-round bout against Ryizeemmion Ford (8-3, 6 KOs) and undefeated welterweight Josniel Castro (9-0, 7 KOs), a Boca Raton, FL, native who’s fought his entire pro career in New England from Massachusetts to New Hampshire, facing one of his toughest tests to date in a six-round showdown against Quebec native and Boston resident Mitch Louis Charles (6-3-2, 3 KOs).

For more information, follow CES Boxing on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @CESBOXING.

INFORMATION

CES Boxing is one of the top promotions in the northeast and one of the few to successfully promote both mixed martial arts and professional boxing. Launched in 1992 by longtime boxing judge Jimmy Burchfield Sr., the promotion is the only in professional boxing to boast two reigning WBC Youth world champions in lightweight Jamaine Ortiz and featherweight Irvin Gonzalez. CES Boxing recently teamed with UFC FIGHT PASS, the world’s No. 1 streaming platform for combat sports, to showcase its events to a worldwide audience, and worked as a promotional consultant for the Mike Tyson-Roy Jones Jr. pay-per-view event in November of 2020.

Mohegan Sun Arena is one of the busiest Arenas in the United States and is ranked consistently among the top venues in the world according to Billboard Magazine, Pollstar and VenuesNow. Mohegan Sun Arena finished 2021 with its first “#1 Indoor Arena” ranking for its capacity in the world according to Pollstar and VenuesNow, ranked among the top 10 venues in the United States regardless of size based on ticket sales, and was named “2021 Innovator of the Year” by Celebrity Access for its ViacomCBS residency.  In recent years, the award-winning venue has also been the “#1 Casino Venue in the World,” “#1 Social Media Venue in the World” and a seven-time national award winner for “Casino of the Year – Arena” by the Academy of Country Music. For more information on concerts and other great events, visit MoheganSun.com. For information on this week’s schedule, call the Entertainment and Special Events hotline at 1.888.226.7711.




Fire Fist Boxing’s Willian Silva returns January 28

Lowell, MA (January 11, 2023) – Lightweight Willian “Babyface” Silva returns to action Saturday, January 28 when he faces durable veteran Benjamin Lamptey in Lowell, MA.

Fighting out of Sao Paolo Brazil, Silva’s 29-4 with 17 knockouts. In October, he scored an impressive second round knockout against Carlos Gaston Suarez. Silva’s battled the likes of Arnold Barboza Jr., Cletus Seldin, Teofimo Lopez and Felix Verdejo.

Hailing from Accra, Ghana, Lamptey is 13-9-2 with 9 KO’s. As an amateur he fought in the Commonwealth Games, where he challenged future undisputed junior welterweight champion Josh Taylor. Lamptey’s currently riding a two fight win streak, most recently defeating Eric Asante in July.

The scheduled eight-round bout takes place as part of “Down and Dirty 5,” which is promoted by Reyes Boxing Promotions in association with Fire Fist Boxing Promotions.

“Willian looked great last time out and there are big opportunities on the horizon, but first he’s got to handle business against Lamptey,” said Silva’s promoter Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions. “Since returning to the lightweight division, he’s displayed an aggressive style and is punching with authority. The fans will enjoy what they see on January 28.”

Tickets for “Down and Dirty 5” are on sale at shorturl.at/syHP7 and the card will also be streamed live on Reyesboxingtv.com.




Rising contender Joseph Ambo looks to impress hometown fans on Thursday

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – Rising contender Joseph Ambo will make his ring return in his hometown this Thursday, January 12 when he faces rugged journeyman Romnick Magos at Tablon Mini Gym in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines.

The ten-round junior featherweight bout will be the first for Ambo (11-2-1, 7 knockouts) in his hometown as a professional. He says he will have plenty of family members and friends in attendance to support, which has motivated him even more to put on a great performance.

“I’m really excited about my upcoming match and to be able to fight again because all of the matches are really important to me,” said Ambo.

Ambo showed he was a force to be reckoned with in 2021, when he traveled to Georgia and pulled off a significant upset, knocking down the previously unbeaten Darren Cunningham four times en route to a unanimous decision victory.

Cortez Bey, a former professional fighter himself, was promoting the show that night, and Cunningham was trained by his brother, former IBF lightweight champion Mickey Bey Jr. But after witnessing Ambo’s hunger up close, Cortez Bey signed him to a promotional deal. Now he’s looking to keep him active and build his ranking with the sanctioning bodies to earn him a world title opportunity.

“I’m working on getting him back to the United States to get him active to fight here. He’s ready for a major fight right now in my opinion, so I want to get him into two more solid fights and then get him to a world title after that,” said Bey, the Cleveland-based promoter who runs Bey Bros Promotions.

Ambo is trained by Roberto Jalnaiz, a highly respected trainer who competed at the 1988 and 1992 Olympics, and won several gold medals in international tournaments.

Ambo’s main sparring partner is Carlo Paalam, a fellow Cagayan de Oro City native who is best known for winning a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics.

“My goal is to become a world champion,” said Ambo. “Nothing is impossible with The Lord.”




ACTION-PACKED UNDERCARD CONFIRMED FOR WOOD VS. LARA BARNSTORMER

Dalton Smith will make the second defence of his British Super-Lightweight Title against Billy Allington on the undercard of Leigh Wood’s highly anticipated WBA Featherweight World Title showdown with avoided Mexican Mauricio Lara at the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on Saturday February 18, live worldwide on DAZN (excluding Australia and New Zealand).

The Sheffield star (13-0, 10 KOs) recently put pen to paper on a new multi-fight promotional deal with Eddie Hearn following a stellar 2022 that saw the 25-year-old remain undefeated, and ‘Thunder’ is set to kick off an even busier year against Surrey’s former English Champion Allington (10-1-4) as he looks to win the prestigious British Title outright before moving onto the European scene. 

Irish Lightweight hope Gary Cully (15-0, 9 KOs), who also recently extended his promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing, returns to the scene of his impressive stoppage triumph over former World Champion Miguel Vazquez in March last year to take on the USA’s Wilfredo Flores (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBA Intercontinental Title ahead of what promises to be a huge year for the ‘The Diva’.

Gravesend Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (4-0, 4 KOs) has ended all four of his fights inside the distance since turning pro last February, including a brutal second round stoppage win over Jose Gregorio Ulrich last time out caused by a perfectly timed uppercut, and the former Team GB Olympian steps up next month in an Eliminator for the English Cruiserweight Title against Scunthorpe’s Dec Spelman (19-6, 9 KOs).

Former European Super-Bantamweight Champion Gamal Yafai (19-2, 11 KOs) returned to winning ways by stopping Sean Cairns in four rounds last June after losing his EBU Title to Jason Cunningham in May 2021, and the 31-year-old from Birmingham begins 2023 with a ten-rounder against Argentina’s Diego Alberto Ruiz (23-6-1, 12 KOs) as he aims to get back to title action later in the year. 

Northampton’s Kieron Conway (18-3-1, 4 KOs) meets Portugal’s Jorge Silva (21-7, 12 KOs) over eight rounds at Super-Middleweight following his points loss to Austin Williams on the Canelo vs. Golovkin 3 undercard last September, Rotherham Super-Welterweight talent Junaid Bostan (4-0, 4 KOs) fights for the third time under the Matchroom banner after inking a deal with Eddie Hearn last September and popular Mansfield Super-Bantamweight Nico Leivars (3-0-1) squares off against Spain’s Alberto Motos (2-0) over six rounds. 

Tickets for Wood vs. Lara are priced at £40, £60, £80, £100, £150 and £300 (VIP)

Matchroom Fight Pass members can purchase tickets NOW.  Priority ticket info has been emailed directly to eligible members.

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and Motorpoint Arena Nottingham from midday tomorrow (Thursday January 12).




GERVONTA DAVIS’ NINTH-ROUND TKO OF HECTOR LUIS GARCIA TO AIR ON SHOWTIME® THIS SATURDAY, JANUARY 14 AT 10:30 PM ET/PT ALONG WITH ROIMAN VILLA’S WILD COMEBACK WIN

NEW YORK – January 11, 2023 – Gervonta Davis’ exciting ninth-round stoppage over Héctor Luis García on Saturday night on SHOWTIME PPV® in which Davis caused Garcia to retire on his stool in a dramatic, made-for-TV-moment, will air on SHOWTIME this Saturday, January 14 at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT, giving fans another chance to watch Davis’ methodical breakdown of the previously undefeated champion Garcia.

In addition, Roiman Villa’s thrilling comeback majority decision victory against formerly unbeaten Rashidi Ellis on the pay-per-view undercard will also be included in Saturday’s delayed telecast. Villa, who upset a previously undefeated fighter on SHOBOX: The New Generation® in September, sent Ellis to the canvas twice in the pivotal 12th round to clinch the decision.

The event set a new live gate record for ticket revenue for Capital One Arena, topping a previous Rolling Stones concert. The Baltimore-native Davis has now sold out arenas in Los Angeles, Atlanta, New York and Washington, D.C., cementing his status as boxing’s hottest, must-see young attraction.

Below are some notable headlines coming out of the event:

“Boxer Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis continued his rapid ascension with a convincing victory.”

“Davis found his groove in the fourth round, landing several jabs and bringing fans to their feet.”

“Tank once again packed the house, this time bringing in an announced attendance of 19,731 to Washington, D.C. He is undoubtedly one of the biggest stars in the sport.”

“Inside the ring, Davis remains a reliable, efficient problem solver.”

“Davis is like a lightweight version of Mike Tyson.”

“This was a quality win.”

“Davis out-landed his foe by a margin of 99 to 55. Davis also landed an incredible 53% of his power punches.”

“One of the biggest draws in boxing, Davis has proven he can attract a crowd in several cities throughout the United States. Davis remains captivating.”

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Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly owned subsidiary of Paramount, owns and operates the premium service SHOWTIME®, which features critically acclaimed original series, provocative documentaries, box-office hit films, comedy and music specials and hard-hitting sports. SHOWTIME is available as a stand-alone streaming service across all major streaming devices and Showtime.com, as well as via cable, DBS, telco and streaming video providers. SNI also operates the premium services THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, as well as on demand versions of all three brands. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV®. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.




Tito Mercado Defends NABA Silver Title Against Hank Lundy February 4 in Ontario, California

POMONA, CA (January 11, 2023) – Undefeated NABA super lightweight champion, Ernesto “Tito” Mercado (8-0, 8 KOs), is ready to start his 2023 off with a bang as he returns to the ring February 4, 2022. Mercado faces his toughest opponent to date, “Hammerin” Hank Lundy (31-12-1, 14 KOs) of Philadelphia, PA, in a scheduled 10-round co-main event at the LumColor Center in Ontario, CA. RED Boxing Promotions is the promoter.

“It feels great to be back fighting near my hometown, and I am ready to knock out another opponent,” said the 21-year-old Mercado, who calls Pomona, California his home. “I heard him say that he is making 38-year-olds look like 25-year-olds right now. After he fights me, he will feel his age and more than likely never want to fight again. I have a lot of respect for Hank Lundy, but he is too old and I’m going to send him into retirement once and for all!”

Hank Lundy has been in the ring with Terence Crawford, Viktor Postol, Jose Zepeda, and Thomas Dulorme, so its fair to say this is a major step up for Mercado.

“Hank has been in the ring with a lot of great fighters,” continued Mercado. 

“Now it is time for me to show that I am just as good as all those other fighters mentioned on his resume. I am calling out all a top lightweight and super lightweight contenders. No one is mentioning my name, now I have to fight veterans that most fighters in my weight class are avoiding to earn my respect in boxing.”

“You might call this a fight, but I will call it a statement,” concluded Mercado. “This is going to be a viral moment in which people will downplay what I do, but if they looked at Hank’s history, no one in my weight class will ever beat him the way I will on February 4th!”