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!”

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

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.

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).

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

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_.

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. 

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

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

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 18^th 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 18^th, 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 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.

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, 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 29^th, through Sunday October 1^st, 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

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.

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.”

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).

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 12^th 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:

• The Washington Post— Davis Finds His Mojo

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

• Associated Press— Davis Beats Garcia

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

• ESPN— Davis Showed Again He’s One Of The Best

“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.”

• The New York Times— Gervonta Davis Sets Up For Ryan Garcia

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

• Yahoo! Sports— Davis Forces Garcia To Quit On His Stool

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

• Sports Illustrated— Boxing Pound-for-Pound Top 10 Rankings

“This was a quality win.”

• CBS Sports— Tank Scores TKO, Sets Up Showdown Vs. Ryan Garcia

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

• Washington Times— Gervonta Davis On The Cusp Of Superstardom

“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.”

#         #         #

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.

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!”

WILLY HUTCHINSON WILL fight for his first major title at light heavyweight when he takes on the experienced Croatian Emil Markic for the WBO Intercontinental Championship at the OVO Arena, Wembley on January 28.

The former World Amateur champion will add to the light heavyweight theme of the night, which is headlined by Anthony Yarde’s challenge for the unified world titles of the unbeaten champion Artur Beterbiev. Young light heavyweight contender Karol Itauma also fights for his first professional title on the show, with the WBC International title on the line in his fight.

Hutchinson, 24, made an unsuccessful assault on the British super middleweight title against Lennox Clarke in March 2021 before swiftly heading back to the 175lb ranks and clocking up victories over Karel Horejsek and Luca Spadaccini, which both ended via stoppage.

The Scot currently holds a record of 15-1, with 11 of his wins coming by way of KO.

Markic is a seasoned campaigner with 36 fights under his belt – with just three defeats – and is known in the UK for engaging in a shootout against Callum Johnson at York Hall in April 2021 in a fight for the WBO Global title.

Johnson was heavily rocked and on the brink of defeat in the first round before recovering and himself forcing a stoppage in the second.

Markic won the WBO European title in 2019 with victory over Tomas Adamek, having won the same title the previous year via defeat of Kavin Gebhard. 2018 also saw him win the WBF world light heavyweight title by overcoming Denis Liebau and in 2015 he also held a WBU version of the title.

Hutchinson is thrilled to find himself back in the title mix.

“This is my big moment to break into the title mix at light heavyweight and set myself on the path towards fighting for a world title. That is where I intend to get to and first I’ve got to do a good job on a tough fighter in Emil Markic.

“Markic has a lot of experience and it is the sort of fight I need to move myself up to the next level. I will be putting on a show on January 28 and reminding everyone of what I am all about.

“I am getting right back to my best and working hard every day over here in Spain, putting in the hours and improving all the time.

“It is a fantastic show to be on at Wembley and I will be watching the main event with interest once I get my belt around my waist.”

Tickets to see Willy Hutchinson vs Emil Markic for the WBO Intercontinental Championship on the undercard of Beterbiev vs Yarde are priced from £50 and are available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.

(Jan. 10, 2023) — WBC light flyweight world champion Kim Clavel will battle WBA queen Jessica Nery Plata this Friday, Jan. 13, at Place Bell in Laval, Canada. Clavel hopes to become the sport’s only Canadian-born unified world champion.

Clavel-Plata and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively in the U.S. on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Clavel (16-0, 3 KOs) won the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2020 ESPY Awards after putting her boxing career on hold to return to nursing during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. She came back in July 2020, shutting out Natalie Gonzalez over eight rounds inside the MGM Grand Bubble. Clavel dominated long-reigning champion Yesenia Gomez last July to win the WBC title, seizing her first world title opportunity. Clavel and Plata were scheduled to fight in December, but Clavel had to withdraw with the flu. Plata (28-2, 3 KOs), from Mexico City, won her world title last March with a split decision over Argentina’s Yesica Bopp.

In other streaming action:

• Mazlum Akdeniz (17-0, 8 KOs) will defend his WBC Continental Americas 140-pound belt against Mexican veteran Cristian Bielma (19-4-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
   
• Welterweight prospect Marie Pier Houle (7-0-1, 2 KOs) looks to extend her winning streak to six against Marisol Moreno (6-3) in an eight-rounder.
   
• Former Canadian amateur standout Eric Basran (2-0, 1 KO) will take on Juan Carlos Ramirez Garcia (4-2) in a six-round lightweight tilt.
   
• Featherweight prospect Caroline Veyre (1-0), who represented Canada at the Tokyo Olympics, makes her second professional appearance against Estefania Gonzalez Franco in a six-rounder. 

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

MIAMI, FL (January 10, 2023)—Two championship fights are among the six undercard clashes that are part of “Let Freedom Ring!  Clash of the Champions!” boxing spectacular presented by Don King Promotions at Casino Miami Jai-Alai on Saturday, Jan. 21.

The world’s greatest boxing promoter has put together another super sensational card headlined by the WBA NABA Gold Heavyweight Championship as Jonathan Guidry (18-1-2, 10 KOs) of Dulac, LA set to defend his title against former WBC Heavyweight Champion Bermane Stiverne (25-5-1, 21 KOs) of Las Vegas, NV via Canada.

Tickets for the championship card are priced at $25, $50 and floor ringside are $100.  VIP tables will be sold at $2,500.   Tickets are available and can be purchased online at https://playcasinomiami.com.   The card will also be presented streaming live on www.donking.com and www.Itube247.com

Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the action will begin at 7 p.m.

Guidry is coming off a sensational performance against tough Dacarree Scott.  Guidry won a tough battle with Scott and sent him to the canvas at 2:01 of the seventh round to claim the NABA Gold Heavyweight title on June 11, 2022 at Casino Miami Jai-Alai.

NABA Welterweight Champion Tre’Sean Wiggins (14-5-3, 8 KOs) of Newburgh, NY will defend his title against Nigel Fennel (13-1, 8 KOs) of San Diego.  Wiggins thrilled fans at his last defense of his title at the Casino Miami Jai-Alai as he knocked out Travis Castellon at 2:07 of the first round on June 11.

WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Champion Ian Green (16-2, 11 KOs) of Haledon, NJ will defend his title against undefeated Alexander Castro (11-0, 9 KOs) from Tulua, Columbia.   Like Wiggins, Green was impressive on June 11 at Miami Casino Jai-Alai in winning a unanimous 10-round decision over Anthony Lenk.  This will be Castro’s first fight in the United States.

Ahmed Elbiali (18-1-2, 10 KOs) of Miami, FL via Cuba will take on an opponent to be named in an eight-round light heavyweight bout.  Another Miami product out of Cuba, Neslan Machado will risk his 19-0 record with 8 KOs against Walter Santibanes (11-2, 2 KOs) of Phoenix, AZ in a 10-round featherweight attraction.

The first two bouts of the night will feature a super lightweight attraction between Raynel Mederos (7-0, 2 KOs) of Miami, Fl via Cuba against Nelson Morales (3-1) FROM Scranton, PA via the Dominican Republic.  The other bout is a light heavyweight attraction for six rounds. 

WORLD YOUTH HEAVYWEIGHT champion Moses Itauma formally announced his professional debut today when he met the media ahead of his big night on 28 January at the OVO Arena, Wembley on the undercard of the unified world light heavyweight title showdown between Artur Beterbiev and Anthony Yarde.

Photos from today’s press conference can be downloaded here.
Images are free to use, please credit: Queensberry

Ituma, just turned 18, was confirmed as Queensberry’s future heavyweight force with the signing of a long-term promotional agreement in the wake of his World Championship triumph in November.

The younger brother of elite light heavyweight prospect Karol also won gold at the Schools, Juniors and Youth Europeans. Moses is a two-time National champion, a Multi-Nation BoxCup winner and was unbeaten in 24 fights as an amateur.

He will now see action for the first time in the professional ranks on the same card as his unbeaten sibling, who will fight for his first title on the show.

“It has been our dream since we were young so it will definitely be special,” said Itauma on the Wembley family affair. “It will be the best time of my life, really, me and my brother boxing on the same show. Especially with it being in London, which isn’t too far from where we live.”

“I came off Covid and not having any fights at all, to having the most fights I have ever had and now signing here makes it even better.

“I want to have around eight fights this year. I want to become the youngest ever world heavyweight champion and beat Mike Tyson’s record of 20 years, four months and 22 days.

“I’ve sparred with Lawrence Okolie, Joe Joyce, Anthony Joshua and everyone on the British scene. More often than not I have held my own.

“I am very confident in my ability and now I just want to see the difference between the pros and the amateurs. I want to be part of history and, when boxing is done for me, I want to be up there amongst the biggest names.

“The record is something I am chasing down, but I won’t be beating Mike Tyson’s record if I don’t win my pro debut.”

Tickets to see Moses Itauma make his pro debut on the undercard of Beterbiev vs Yarde are priced from £50 and are available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.

Sitting alongside his younger brother at the BT Sport studios was the former Olympic Youth champion Karol, who will bid to win a first title in the professional ranks when he goes up against Ezequiel Osvaldo Maderna from Argentina for the WBC International light heavyweight title at the OVO Arena, Wembley on January 28.

The classy 22-year-old will hit double figures as a pro in North West London, having built up a perfect 9-0 record to date, with seven of the wins coming via stoppage. He fought four times across 2022 and two of his fights took place on Tyson Fury undercards at Wembley Stadium and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Maderna, 28-10 (18 KOs), has kept good company in the ring over the course of his 14-year professional career. He is a four-time winner of the Argentinean super middleweight title and he made an unsuccessful challenge for the IBO world title in 2013, losing on points to Thomas Oosthuizen.

The now 36-year-old subsequently won the WBC Latino title in 2013 before taking on and suffering a fourth round stoppage against a then 9-0 Artur Beterbiev in Montreal in mid-2016.

In the same year he won the WBC Latino belt at light heavyweight by defeating Walter Gabriel
Sequeira before returning to super middle and making an unsuccessful challenge for the WBA Continental title in Moscow against Fedor Chudinov.

“Like I have said all along, my coach does all the homework and I just try and implement things in the ring,” said Itauma of the man standing in the way of his first title triumph. “He has mentioned that he is experienced but that is what it takes to progress and move up the ladder.

“I need this kind of fight. I wouldn’t say the title has made much difference to me in preparations because the prize is just a bonus and, if anything, a cherry on top. The fight is like any other fight in that you go in there to come out victorious. The title is a little extra thing and sometimes you can think about it too much, which can bring pressure, so there is no point in thinking about it like that.

“I am excited for it though and, obviously, I am going to be there with my brother. It is crazy because during our whole amateur boxing career we never boxed on the same night. So to be able to share a night together where it is his debut and my first title fight is very special.

“It was an emotional roller coaster watching him win his world championship out in Spain, so I can’t bear to think what it will be like watching him as a pro. I know what he is capable of though and it is all in his hands.

“He is going to make statements and shock the world.”

Tickets to see Moses Itauma make his pro debut and Karol Itauma fight for his first pro title on the undercard of Beterbiev vs Yarde are priced from £50 and are available from AXS.com and Ticketmaster.co.uk.

Bethlehem, PA – January 10, 2023 – The response has been tremendous as tickets are moving fast for a huge SHOBOX: The New Generation card that will take place on Friday night, January 20th at The Wind Creek Event Center in Bethlehem, PA.

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

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 show, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, will have a full undercard of exciting matchups that will be announced in the coming days. 

Miami, FL (January 10, 2023) Peter Kahn’s Fight Game Advisors has signed 2021 Puerto Rican Olympian Yankiel ‘El Doctorito’ Rivera, (2-0, 2 KOs), to an exclusive, long-term managerial contract. The native of Toa Alta, Puerto Rico has quickly impressed in the professional ranks winning his first two bouts in the flyweight division.

Said the excited Rivera upon the signing with the highly regarded Kahn, “When I was a little kid, I embarked on a beautiful journey. That journey took me all the way to the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games. After the Olympics, I started on my next journey. Only this time, I want my journey to take me to a World Championship. After meeting Peter Kahn, I knew he was the right person to take me to the elite level. I have received several offers from good, well intended entities. But I am convinced he is the manager I need to get where I want to get. I look forward to working closely with him and performing to the best of my capabilities along with fighting for my family and Puerto Rico”.  

Rivera compiled an amateur record of 133-14 with 38 knockouts prior to turning professional. In addition to participating at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics he also competed at the World Amateur Championships in Belgrade (2021) and Hamburg (2017) and is a seven-time Puerto Rican National Champion. Both his professional fights have ended in knockouts, most recently a third-round stoppage of Ramon Velasquez on November 19, 2022 in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico.

Stated Kahn, “It’s an honor to be representing Yankiel. He had a fantastic amateur career culminating in representing Puerto Rico at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. He’s in a very exciting division as a professional and has all of the tools necessary to become a world champion and a dominant force in his weight class. He has a great team behind him and I am looking forward to being a part of his journey.”

Rivera is also advised by Miguel Ortega, “For more than 25 years, Peter Kahn has been working successfully in different aspects of boxing. Peter knows this game in and out, and we are very happy to be working with him. As Yankiel’s legal advisor, I cannot think of a better manager to take him to where we all want him to be; at the top of his division. We cannot be happier with this signing, and we look forward to working with Peter every step of the way towards Yankiel becoming a world champion.”

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

DAZN Group, the leading global sports entertainment platform, today announces that it will broadcast the all-British dust up, Chris Eubank Jr vs Liam Smith, Saturday, January 21^st, from BOXXER in association with Wasserman Boxing, Live from AO Arena in Manchester. The event will be available to all DAZN subscribers in the US, Canada, DACH and Japan.

Chris Eubank Jr (32-2-0, 23 KOs) needs no introduction, son of legendary former world champion Chris Eubank, the 33-year-old has successfully carved out his own reputation in the sport and is seen as one of the leading middleweights in the world.

His latest fight in February 2022 saw an impressive shutout points win over Liam Williams at the Motorpoint Arena Cardiff in which he showed his class by knocking down the Welshman four times.

Liam Smith (32-3-1, 19 KOs) heads into this mouth-watering clash in the form of his life following big wins over Jesse Vargas, Anthony Fowler and Roberto Garcia. The Liverpool man is determined to become a world champion for a second time and a statement win vs Eubank JR will kick off 2023 with a bang.

 ‘DAZN are always looking to deliver the best boxing schedule to our subscribers and we are proud to be showing this huge fight between two of Britain’s finest’ said Joe Markowski, CEO DAZN North America. ‘We are no strangers to Liam and Chris and know we have a potential blockbuster on our hands. In 2023, we are determined to work with as many promoters as we can in order to deliver the best fights for fight fans and with actions speaking louder than words we are excited to be working for the first time with BOXXER on this special event. Tune in live January 21^st for a memorable night of British boxing’.

BOXXER CEO & Founder, Ben Shalom said: “This is fantastic news. I am delighted that fight fans in the US, Canada, DACH and Japan will be able to watch this blockbuster event live and exclusively on DAZN. The card is stacked with massive fights from top to bottom. And the brewing animosity between bitter rivals, Chris Eubank Jr and Liam Smith will reach boiling point in what promises to be an unmissable main event in front of a sold-out AO Arena in Manchester.”

Wasserman’s Head of Global Boxing, Kalle Sauerland, said: “It’s fantastic that this mega fight will now have a global audience on DAZN, it’s a fight that merits a global audience and the eyeballs of the world will be on Manchester come next Saturday.”

The show features a stacked undercard with Richard Riakporhe launching his quest for a world title shot in 2023 when he battles former two-time WBO cruiserweight world champion Krzysztof G?owacki and local lad Jack Massey stepping up to face former WBO world heavyweight champion, Joseph Parker.

Joining them on this blockbuster night of boxing will be Ekow Essuman vs Chris Kongo and further bouts involving Frazer Clarke, Matty Harris, Scott Forrest and Amine ‘The Beast’ Boucetta.

Power-punching welterweight Roiman Villa, boxing’s newest breakout star after his thrilling come-from-behind victory over formerly unbeaten “Speedy” Rashidi Ellis, says if the “disrespectful” Ellis would like another beating, he can get it in a rematch any time.

Fighting on the undercard of superstar Gervonta “Tank” Davis’ ninth round knockout of featherweight champion Hector Luis Garcia, and with the Showtime PPV cameras rolling live, the explosive Venezuelan Villa (26-1, 24 KOs) patiently waited for a tiring Ellis (24-1, 15 KOs) to slow down and then took over in the second half of their fight last Saturday night at the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

Villa lost the first five rounds on all three judges’ cards, then flipped the power switch to sweep the final four. Still down on two cards entering the final round, he dropped Ellis twice officially to secure an exciting majority decision in their IBF Welterweight Title Eliminator. One judge scored the fight 113-113 but was overruled by two 114-112 tallies in favor of Villa.

“He disrespected me,” that was his biggest mistake,” said a happy Villa, post-fight. “At the press conference, he was only talking about fighting Jaron Ennis next and ignoring me. That gave me extra power. God doesn’t like ugly.”

Villa and his legendary promoter Sampson Lewkowicz say that Villa is ready for anyone in the division next, but are more than happy to accommodate Ellis’ request for an immediate rematch.

“In one of my tweets before the fight, I said that a star would be born in this fight and I was right,” said Lewkowicz. “The plan worked perfectly. You can only get away for so long against an animal like Villa. And if Ellis wants to complain, he can have a rematch any time. Just ask. Villa will do it again, but this time it will be even quicker. If not, we are ready for Boots Ennis if he wants to fight.”

The victory adds to the momentum Villa generated in his US debut, and most recent bout before this one, by dropping the previously unbeaten Janelson Bocachica on his way to a unanimous decision in a September edition of SHOBOX: The New Generation.

“If he says he has doubts, we can do this again,” added Villa. “There’s nothing different he could do to change things and if he tries to surprise me and exchange punches, then I can go home earlier next time. I’ll put him to sleep.”

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.

Los Angeles (January 9, 2023) Fast-rising super flyweight star and local fan favorite Daniel ‘Chucky’ Barrera, (1-0-1, 1 KOs), of Riverside, CA will return to action on Friday, January 27 in a scheduled four-rounder against debuting Victor Edward Hernandez Martin of Laguna Beach, CA on the next 360 Promotions / Hollywood Fight Nights event at the Quiet Cannon / Montebello Country Club and live on UFC Fight Pass (10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT).

The 21-year-old Barrera, a sparring partner of boxing legend Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez, hits the ring following a hotly contested four-round majority draw against Isaac Anguiano on November 3, 2022.

“I wasn’t happy with my last performance, I have superior boxing skills but got caught up in a toe-to-toe war which while it was very crowd pleasing did not work completely to my advantage,” said Barrera. “I’ve worked diligently in the gym the last two months and won’t be making the same mistake.”

Barrera is managed by Ray Chaparro who has guided former world champion Andrew Cancio  in addition to former contender Daniel Franco. Prior to turning professional last year, Barrera compiled a sensational record of 64-5 as an amateur.

“Chucky is a world class talent who unfortunately got taken out of his game plan in his last fight,” said Chaparro. “The judges were clearly scoring for the aggression from the opponent although we didn’t believe it was effective. We strongly believe Chucky is a future world champion and look forward to him putting on a great show for his huge fan base on January 27.”

The January 27 event is headlined by a scheduled ten-round Super Welterweight clash between defending WBC Continental Americas Champion Serhii ‘El Flaco’ Bohachuk, (21-1, 21 KOs) of Vinitza, Ukraine and Top-Rated Challenger Nathaniel ‘Nate the Great’ Gallimore, (22-6-1, 17 KO), of Chicago, IL.

Limited number of remaining tickets priced at $200 (First Row), $150 (Second Row),  $100 (Premium Reserved Seating) and $80 (Reserved Seating) can be purchased online at 360Promotions.us. The Quiet Cannon / Montebello Country Club is located at 901 via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640. Doors will open on the night of the event at 5:00 p.m.

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