Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Orlando, Fla. for the first time in over four years with an intriguing welterweight tilt that will see No. 7 ranked contender Stephen Thompson battle Kevin Holland. Heavyweight KO artists collide in the co-main event when No. 4 ranked contender Tai Tuivasa meets No. 5 Sergei Pavlovich.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: THOMPSON vs. HOLLAND will take place Saturday, December 3 at Amway Center. The entire card will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast on ESPN+ in English and Spanish, with the main card starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT and the prelims at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: THOMPSON vs. HOLLAND tickets will go on sale Friday, October 14 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^® members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, October 12 at 10 a.m. ET via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, October 13 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

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

Former title challenger Thompson (16-6-1, fighting out of Simpsonville, S.C.) returns to action for the first time in a year, looking to deliver a vintage performance. Throughout his UFC run, he has earned memorable KO wins over former UFC champions Johny Hendricks and Robert Whittaker, as well as Jake Ellenberger. Thompson now has his sights on defending his spot in the rankings by stopping Holland in emphatic fashion.

Holland (23-8 1NC, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas) aims to cap off his 2022 campaign by cracking into the welterweight Top 10. An exciting striker, he holds notable finishes against Tim Means, Jacare Souza and Joaquin Buckley. Holland now hopes to steal the show and secure the biggest win of his UFC career.

Fan favorite Tuivasa (15-4, fighting out of Western Sydney, NSW, Australia) intends to close out the year with a bang. A heavy-handed striker, he has netted spectacular KO victories over Derrick Lewis, Augusto Sakai and Greg Hardy. Tuivasa now hopes to turn heads and stop Pavlovich’s momentum with a highlight-reel finish.

Rising contender Pavlovich (16-1, fighting out of Moscow, Russia) plans to continue his hot streak by taking out Tuivasa. Currently on a four-fight KO run, he holds impressive victories against Derrick Lewis, Shamil Abdurakhimov and Maurice Greene. Pavlovich now looks to take another step towards title contention by adding Tuivasa to his resume.

Additional bouts on the card include:

• No. 7 ranked contender Matheus Nicolau (18-3-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) takes on No. 8 Matt Schnell (16-6 1NC, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) in a pivotal flyweight bout
• Middleweight contenders collide when No. 5 ranked Derek Brunson (23-8, fighting out of Wilmington, N.C.) faces No. 8 Jack Hermansson (23-7, fighting out of Oslo, Norway by way of Uddevalla, Sweden)
• Eryk Anders (14-7 1NC, fighting out of Scottsdale, Ariz. by way of Birmingham, Ala.) meets Kyle Daukaus (11-3 1NC, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.) in a clash of exciting middleweights
• Michael Johnson (21-18, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) squares off with Marc Diakiese (16-5, fighting out of Doncaster, England by way of the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in an all-action lightweight bout
• No. 13 ranked flyweight contender Tracy Cortez (10-1, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.) battles Amanda Ribas (11-3, fighting out of Varginha, Minas Gerais, Brazil)
• Natan Levy (7-1, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Herzliya, Israel) faces Genaro Valdez (10-1, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico) at lightweight
• No. 12 ranked strawweight contender Angela Hill (14-12, fighting out of San Diego, Calif.) takes on rising No. 13 Emily Ducote (12-6, fighting out of Oklahoma City, Okla.)
• UFC Hall of Famer Clay Guida (37-19, fighting out of Johnsburg, Ill.) locks horns with Scott Holtzman (14-5, fighting out of Knoxville, Tenn.) at lightweight
• Gritty veteran Darren Elkins (28-10, fighting out of Portage, Ind.) faces Jonathan Pearce (13-4, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz. by way of Johnson City, Tenn.) in an exciting featherweight tilt
• Marcelo Rojo (16-9, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico by way of Rio Cuarto, Cordoba, Argentina) meets undefeated Dana White’s Contender Series signee Francis Marshall (6-0, fighting out of Jersey City, N.J.) at featherweight

Visit the UFC.com for information and content to support your UFC coverage.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 688 million fans and 207 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to nearly 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 75 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About Amway Center

Amway Center, owned and operated by the City of Orlando on behalf of the Central Florida community, hosts major national events, concerts and family shows since its opening in fall 2010. The Orlando Magic served as the developer and the facility was designed to reflect the character of the community, meet the goals of the users and build on the legacy of sports and entertainment in Orlando. The building’s exterior features a modern blend of glass and metal materials, along with ever-changing graphics via a monumental wall along one facade. A 180-foot tall tower serves as a beacon amid the downtown skyline. The 875,000 square foot, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certified building features a sustainable, environmentally-friendly design and unmatched technology, including 1,100 digital monitors, the tallest high-definition video board in an NBA venue and multiple premium amenities available to all patrons in the building. Amway Center was honored with the International Association of Venue Managers’ 2017 Venue Excellence Award, which is bestowed upon facilities that excel in the management and operation of public assembly venues. Amway Center was the only arena to garner this distinction. Additionally, the arena has earned numerous awards, which most notably includes TheStadiumBusiness Awards’ 2013 Customer Experience Award and was named SportsBusiness Journal’s 2012 Sports Facility of the Year. For more information about the Amway Center, visit AmwayCenter.com.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 22.8 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). 

About ESPN

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

LOS ANGELES, OCTOBER 12 – A recharged Regis Prograis insists he will not repeat the big mistake he made the last time he was world champion – taking it for granted.

The vacant WBC world super lightweight belt is up for grabs when Prograis collides with Jose Zepeda in a mouth-watering fight on Saturday, November 26 in Carson, California.

Prograis won the WBA strap in 2019 after stopping Kiryl Relikh and admits his ascent to the top of the division was “easy” and the significance was lost on him.

But the 33-year-old’s defeat to Josh Taylor in their huge unification bout, later that year, and his long wait to regain another shot, has made him change his ways.

And should he get his hands on the world title again at the Dignity Health Sports Park, next month, then the man known as ‘Rougarou’ has promised to savour every second of it.

“I feel like I’m totally different now because when I was the world champion – I’m going to be honest with you – I didn’t cherish it,” Prograis told Probellum.com.

“It was easy to me. I’m not even gonna lie, it was easy to me.

“At the time I was preparing to fight for the belt I went to L.A. and for my first two weeks there we had parties at the house and all kinds of stuff, and this is me fighting for my world championship!

“But it was just it was easy to me, and I didn’t cherish it and then it was taken away from me just like that, real fast.

“So now, I feel like I’m a different fighter, my mindset is way different. The first time, it was easy. I just did it. It was easy. I was world champion, number one in the world and it was nothing to me. I didn’t even care about it. And this time it has been hard, to scratch my way back to the top to even get to the belt. So now I will cherish that even more. And now I don’t do all those things I used to.”

The experienced Zepeda (35-2, 27 KOs) has twice challenged for world titles and meets Prograis on a five-fight winning streak, that includes the 2020 Fight of the Year.

Zepeda and Ivan Baranchyk both hit the canvas four times inside five rounds that night and while Prograis respects his opponent, he has warned ‘Chon’ he won’t let him off the hook.

“I’m not Ivan Baranchyk, when I drop people, I will finish them off,” Prograis declared.

“I also have a higher IQ and I feel like I have bigger punching power, too. And then I’m a southpaw so I’m slick. Baranchyk was there to be hit.

“Ivan didn’t really have too much defence but me, I’m a whole different monster. Zepeda has never seen nothing like me before. But Zepeda, he is good, he gets dropped, he gets back up and he does good.”

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Tampa, FL (October 11, 2022) – On Saturday October 8, Connor “The Kid” Coyle expected to be fighting a ten round contest against fellow unbeaten world rated middleweight Felix Cash at the O2 Arena in London.

Coyle-Cash was scheduled to be the co-main event to the Chris Eubank Jr.-Conor Benn matchup, which would air worldwide on DAZN. It was the biggest fight of Coyle’s career but one he was without question ready for.

A native of Northern Ireland, Coyle traveled more than 4000 miles to begin an intense training camp with head trainer Jim McLaughlin in Pinellas Park, FL. To ensure he was sharp as possible, Coyle fought on September 17. He won easily via eight round decision then continued preparing for Cash until the completion of his Camp September 30. 

On October 2, Coyle, McLaughlin, promoter Jody Caliguire of Fire Fist Boxing Promotions and the rest of his team landed in London.

Mentally and physically, Coyle was prepared for the most important fight of his career. This was until shocking news sent everything into a tailspin.

On Wednesday, October 5, it was revealed that Conor Benn failed a drug test administered by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA). The banned substance, Clomiphene, is primarily recognized as a female fertility drug but can increase testosterone production and boost androgen, a male hormone that contributes to muscle mass.

Benn did however pass a separate test by the UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) and all parties appeared ready to move forward. Ultimately, the British Boxing Board of Control (BBB of C) refused to sanction the fight, stating it was not in the sport’s best interest. On Thursday, October 6, Matchroom Boxing and Wasserman Boxing announced the cancellation of the entire event.

“This was a major disappointment for our team,” said Caliguire. “Connor Coyle made incredible sacrifices to be prepared as possible for Felix Cash on October 8. Conor Benn’s failed test ultimately led to the cancellation of the entire event. This impacted every other fighter and their teams that put in the hard work so they could perform at the highest level for such a big event. Team Coyle is hoping to reschedule the fight against Cash as soon as possible.”

New York, September 21, 2022. —  Heather “The Heat” Hardy versus Calista Silgado will be the main event of a six-bout card stacked with local boxers on her much anticipated return to the boxing ring on Thursday, October 13.  The card, tabbed “New Beginnings,” will take place at Sony Hall, in the heart of Times Square, mid-town Manhattan, and will be streamed live beginning at 7 pm ET / 4 pm PT. To get the live stream, click > BXINGTV.com

Calling the fights from ringside will be the hosts of SiriusXM’s At The Fights – former New York State Athletic Commission Chairman Randy Gordon and Former Heavyweight World Title Contender “Gentleman” Gerry Cooney. The show will be produced and promoted by BoxingInsider, their inaugural promotion.

“What a great team, all the way around! Really, it’s an honor to have the guys call my fight,” said Heather Hardy. “They’ve been with me every step of my career, have seen me boxing in my absolute prime but also through some of my darkest days. They’ve always been so supportive but at the same time honest when it comes to my performance, and I’m really excited to hear what they think! It’s a breath of fresh air to have a commentator team who doesn’t pick a favorite.  They call boxing as they see it and will walk the fans through what’s happening.”

“Heather is a true professional,” said Gordon. “She gives 1000% of herself when she steps into the ring.  Gerry and I are honored to be on the mic for her return to the ring.”

“It’s great to follow fighters and put them on the air and hear their stories and then watch them fight,” said Cooney.  “Heather is a very tough girl making a comeback.  She’s been in the ring with the best of them.  For this fight she’s gotten herself into great shape and I can’t wait to see that product on Thursday night.”

Tickets, priced from $85 for General Admission (not including applicable service charges), are available at Ticketmaster click here.  General Admission tables and VIP tables are also available.  Doors Open at 6 pm and First Bell is at 7:30.

Hardy-Silgado will be a six round lightweight bout.  In the co-feature will be Ivan Golub, a native of the Ukraine who currently resides in Brooklyn.  The remainder of the card includes Andy Dominguez of the Bronx, Lebanon native Nadim Salloum now residing in Brooklyn, Orville Crooks who hails from the Bedford-Stuyvesant area of Brooklyn and Armenian Petros Ananyan who resides in Los Angeles.

Heather Hardy (22-2, 4 KO’s), Brooklyn born and raised and former World Boxing Organization Featherweight Champion, will bring “The Heat” back after 17 months of inactivity as she mounts another run at a world championship.  Hardy is currently ranked #12 in the lightweight division by the Women’s International Boxing Association.  Heather is a graduate of John Jay College in Brooklyn, began boxing in the gym at age twenty-four and made her professional debut in 2014 at the tender age of twenty-eight. In 2013 she won the vacant UBF International super bantamweight title and in 2014 won the WBC International super bantamweight title, which she successfully defended five times. On October 27, 2018, Heather became world champion, winning the WBO featherweight title with a unanimous decision win over Shelly Vincent at Madison Square Garden. Heather lost the title the following September to Amanda Serrano in a clash of women boxing stars.

Calista Silgado (20-15, 15 KOs) from Santiago de Tolu, Colombia made her professional debut in 2012 and is an eight-time world title challenger. She also fought in a bare-knuckle fight in October 2021.

In a co-feature, Ivan Golub, a native of the Ukraine who currently resides in Brooklyn, will be putting his USBA welterweight title on the line against Toledo, Ohio’s Wesley Tucker (15-3, 9 KOs).  Golub (20-1, 15 KO’s), known as “The Volk,” is ranked #7 in the world by the International Boxing Federation. 

Fans at Sony Hall will also get a chance to see Andy Dominguez (7-0, 5 KOs) of the Bronx, a dynamic flyweight who currently holds the World Boxing Association Fedecentro title.  He will go up against Ricardo Caraballo (7-1, 2 KOs). At 18 years of age, Dominguez is already 14th in the world in the WBA rankings.  

Nadim Salloum (8-1, 3 KO’s), the first pro fighter born and raised in Lebanon, will battle Ahuad Jorge Leandro Capozucco (4-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight bout. Salloum, who now lives in Brooklyn, has a large and vocal following among his countrymen in the New York City area. 

Orville Crooks (3-0, 2 KO’s), one of best amateurs New York has produced in recent years. Crooks, who hails from the Bedford-Stuyvesant area of Brooklyn, is both a U.S. Amateur champion and a National Golden Gloves champion. For him, the sky is truly the limit. 

In an eight-round super lightweight bout will be former World Boxing Association Continental Americas Super Lightweight Champion Petros Ananyan (16-3-2, 7 KOs), born and raised in Armenia and now residing in Los Angeles.  Petros will battle Brazilian Paulo Cesar Galdino (12-5, 8 KOs).

Sony Hall is located at 235 W 46th Street in Manhattan. Stay in touch by visiting www.boxinginsider.com for more fight updates and streaming information. 

LOS ANGELES, CA (Oct. 11, 2022) With a fired up Mexican band setting up a festive tone, media and boxing fans alike rallied together for a special Los Angeles media workout event hosted by undefeated, former WBO Super Middleweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (44-0, 30 KOs) at Brickhouse Boxing Club.

Ramirez discussed his upcoming 12-round championship fight against Dmitry Bivol (20-0, 11 KOs) for the WBA Light Heavyweight World Title on Saturday, Nov. 5 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The fight will be broadcast live worldwide on DAZN.

Here is what Ramirez and Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya had to say:

GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ, UNDEFEATED, FORMER WBO SUPER MIDDLEWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPION:
“Camp has been going very well. I am happy to be here, I am happy to be doing this. Man, this is just exciting.

“I am taking back the belt on November 5! I am very proud to not only represent Mazatlán, Sinaloa, but all of Mexico and all Latinos. I can’t wait to prove to everyone and to myself that I can do this. Bivol is a tough guy. He’s a really good challenge. But, I am going to avenge the Mexican population since he beat Canelo.

“When I heard the fight would be in Abu Dhabi, I thought ‘Wow, that’s cool – I have never been there before.’ After the press conference, I was blown away and I am even more excited to fight there.

“I expect the very best Dmitry Bivol for this fight. I expect this to be an exciting fight. It will be a war.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF GOLDEN BOY PROMOTIONS:
“This fight was forced on Bivol. Zurdo always wanted to fight for the world title, he wanted to fight the very best. We did our job as a promoter to make this fight happen. We forced this fight to happen through the WBA, through the rankings.

“We established Zurdo as the number one contender. He’s fought back-to-back eliminators, so he deserved this shot. We did a very good job in positioning Zurdo, and now it’s Zurdo’s job to bring the belt back.

“The fact that he [Zurdo] has that killer instinct, and that he wants this so bad, you can see it oozing from out of his eyes. He’s piercing through everything. He wants that big prize against Bivol. Zurdo is calm, cool, and collected – and that’s what you want from a fighter stepping up in competition against someone like Bivol.”

QUINCY, Mass. (October 11, 2022) – It’s extremely rare in boxing for two undefeated prospects to fight each other. Rather than take the so often traveled easy route to build fighters’ records, Steve Sumpter (6-0, 6 KOs) and Edet “Papito” Mkpanam (8-0, 7 KOs) will square off November 19^th on “Springfield Championship Boxing,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions, at Mass Mutual Center  in Springfield, Massachusetts.

Granite Chin’s inaugural show in Springfield will feature a Tripleheader of Western Massachusetts’ top prospects such as the undefeated trio of Sumpter, fighting out of Pittsfield (MA), Holyoke welterweight Denzel “Double Impact” Whitley (9-0, 6 KOs), and Holyoke super welterweight Carlos Castillo (5-0, 3 KOs).

Sumpter vs. Mkpanam is a scheduled 8-round bout for the vacant Massachusetts State Light Heavyweight Championship.

Sumpter, 29, has stopped all six of his professional opponents to date, primarily campaigning as a super middleweight, while Mkpanam was a 2018 New England Golden Gloves silver medalist.

“I want to fight the best,” Sumpter explained why he accepted this fight. “I never take any opponent lightly, especially an undefeated one. I’m excited, but I’m taking it as just another fight. I’m not going to let the title mess with me. That’s the way I’m going into this fight.”

“Every fight is big,” Mkpanam said. “I feel that I fight like all my fights are for a title. This fight will come down to skills not size being the deciding factor. November 19^th is going to be a helluva show, I’m taking home the belt!”

Whitley is matched with Fall River’s (MA) Kris Jacobs (5-2-1, 2 KOs) in an 8-rounder for the vacant Massachusetts State Welterweight title.

A hot prospect and potential rising star, Whitley is trained by former pro fighters and brothers, his father Derrick and Uncle Darrin.

Jacobs has defeated three previously undefeated opponents, including 2-0 Ryan Thomas Clark in his last fight by way of a 6-round split decision.

“The two state title fights on this show are what local championship fights should be,” Granite Chin Promotions president Chris Traietti commented. “Edet and Steve are two strong, skilled guys who are hungry to take the next step. They both know the quickest way to get there is through the other guy. Neither guy hesitated at the opportunity and the business end of this fight was wrapped up fairly quickly. New England fans should be grateful for throwback fighters like the guys in this fight and honestly throughout the whole show. The fighters on this show are taking the kind of fights that a lot of ‘fighters’ wouldn’t touch with a 10-foot pole.”

The Western Mass. tripleheader also includes a 6-round throwdown between 24-year-old Castillo and  Revere (MA) welterweight Travis Gambardella (7-2-2, 3 KOs). Castillo is a skilled boxer who is stepping up in competition to fight Gambardella, who has won 5 of his last 7 fights and his two draws could have easily been victories.

The undercard showcases undefeated lightweight prospect RayJay “The Destroyer” Bermudez (16-0, 11 KOs), of Albany (NY), and gatekeeper Tyrone “Hands of Stone” Luckey (15-18-4, 11 KOs) in an 8-round match. Bermudez is trained by his uncle Hector Bermudez, who owns and operates a gym in Springfield.

Also fighting on the undercard in 4-rounders is Springfield super featherweight Isiah Cruz (4-0, 2 KOs) vs. TBA, as well as Springfield lightweight Carlos Gonzalez (2-0, 2 KOs) vs. pro-debuting Mathew McGee, of Fairfield, Maine.

Card subject to change.

Tickets range between $203.00 and $48.00 and are available to purchase online at https://www.massmutualcenter.com/events/detail/springfield-championship-boxing

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

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

ONTARIO, CA (October 11, 2022) – Fresh off the biggest win of his young career, super featherweight prospect, George “El Yuyu” Acosta (13-1, 1 KOs), of Whittier, Ca, will face the always dangerous veteran, Jose Angulo (14-3, 7 KOs) of Guayaquil, Ecuador. The 8-round bout will serve as the main event on Thompson Boxing’s “New Blood” card. 

“New Blood” will take place at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, CA on Friday, October 21, 2022. Doors open at 6:30 pm PT with the first fight starting at 8:00 pm PT. Tickets are priced $50, $75, $100, and $125 are available for purchase by calling 714-935-0900 or online at www.thompsonboxing.com. Fight fans will be able to watch all Thompson Boxing fights, weigh-ins, and behind-the-scenes content, via their new mobile app downloadable on Apple and Google.

In the co-main event, we will see an 8-round fight with the very popular, Manuel “El Meny” Flores (13-0, 11 KOs) of Coachella, California, who competes at bantamweight, facing an opponent that will be determined later.

“I was tested in my last fight and feel that I am growing into becoming a world class fighter,” Acosta said reflecting on a unanimous decision win over Isaac Avelar. “I am very grateful for Thompson Boxing sticking with me after a loss early in my career. I feel that taking that loss taught me a lesson, and now my diet as well as training Is on another level. I have a good team behind me, and the goal is to enter the conversation of fighting for a regional title in the near future. I know a lot of the titles are vacant currently at my division, so I’m looking to throw my name in the hat with this performance. I want the world take notice of me in this fight.”

“I am excited about this opportunity, and I am ready to shock the world at a new weight class,” stated an upset-minded Jose Angulo. “I think that I have been fighting at weights that don’t show my true skill level, but now I am ready to prove the type of fighter I am. I came to the United States to make my dream a reality. Now, this is a chance for me to steal all the momentum that George Acosta has created for himself. I am going all-in for this fight.”

UNDERCARD BOUTS:

Middleweight Nelson Oliva (4-0, 4 KOs), of Rialto, CA, will fight against unbeaten Wayne Boudreaux (2-0, 1 KOs), of Marrero, LA. (6-rounds)

Lightweight Ioannis Manouilidis (2-0) of Los Angeles, CA, faces Pedro Angel Cruz (2-1, 2 KOs), of San Jose, CA. (4-rounds)

Lightweight Leonardo Sanchez (1-0), of Cathedral City, CA, will square off against Mexico’s Ivan Medina, who will be making his pro debut. (4-rounds)

Opening the card will be Super middleweight Joshua Conley (17-4-1,11 KOs) of San Bernardino, CA, taking on Uriel Gonzalez Angulo (5-8-2, 5 KOs), of Welton, AZ. (6-rounds)

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

This event is sponsored by HUSTLER Casino, LA’s only luxury casino; Thompson Building Materials, Transforming spaces into beautiful places; Omega Products International, The leading stucco manufacturer in the United States; Belgard, Paves the way; and Makita, Rule the outdoors.

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

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

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BROOKLYN – October 11, 2022 – Exciting rising prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. will return to action facing Limberth Ponce in an 8/10-round super welterweight showdown that headlines PBC Prelims on FS2 and FOX Deportes this Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The FS2 telecast begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and also features unbeaten top lightweight contender Michel Rivera battling California’s Jerry Pérez in an eight-round matchup, and undefeated heavyweight Gurgen Hovhannisyan in an eight-round showdown against Bronx-native Michael Coffie that kicks off the telecast.

Prelims will precede a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT headlined by the return of boxing superstar and former longtime heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder as he takes on hard-hitting Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by BombZquad Promotions and TGB Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased through seatgeek.com and barclayscenter.com. Tickets are also available for purchase in-person at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Representing Roseland, New Jersey, Mielnicki (12-1, 8 KOs) returns to fight at Barclays Center for the second-straight fight after stopping Jimmy Williams in six-rounds in July. The 20-year-old will look to add a third victory to his 2022 record, after kicking the year off with a unanimous decision over Dan Karpency in April. Mielnicki first turned heads during his exceptional amateur career where he compiled a 147-22 record and was named the Most Outstanding Boxer of the 2011 Junior National Golden Gloves, amongst many accolades before turning pro.

Born in Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico, Ponce (19-5, 11 KOs) fights out of Rock Island, Illinois throughout his pro career that dates back to 2012. The 31-year-old won eight of nine fights before dropping a December 2021 bout against unbeaten Joey Spencer. Most recently, Ponce scored a unanimous decision over Ramiro Hernandez in May.

Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and now fighting out of Miami, Fla. Rivera (23-0, 14 KOs) burst onto the scene in 2019, making his U.S. debut with a victory over Rene Tellez Giron. The 24-year-old continued his ascent with five more victories in 2020 and 2021 including knockouts of Jon Fernandez and Anthony Mercado. Most recently Rivera dominated the previously unbeaten Joseph Adorno on his way to a unanimous decision in March.

Trained alongside four-division champion Leo Santa Cruz and his family, Pérez (14-1, 11 KOs) bounced back from an April 2021 defeat against top lightweight contender Frank Martin by knocking out Erick Lanzas Jr. in May. The 29-year-old from Oak Hills, California had put together a three-fight knockout streak heading into the Martin fight, which included a 2020 KO of then once-beaten Joshua Zuniga.

The 24-year-old Hovhannisyan (3-0, 3 KOs) has delivered three consecutive knockouts since turning pro in September 2021. Originally from Yerevan, Armenia, he now fights out of Los Angeles as he looks to bolster his heavyweight resume. Most recently, Hovhannisyan blasted out Jesse Bryan on his way to a second round knockout in May.

Coffie (13-2, 10 KOs) hopes to continue his climb back to contention after back-to-back defeats to Jonny Rice in July 2021 and January of this year. A Marine Corps veteran who picked up boxing after returning from overseas, Coffie quickly impressed in amateur tournaments enough to earn sparring assignments with Deontay Wilder and Adam Kownacki. He was born in the Bronx, but now trains in Orlando, Florida and most recently knocked out Fulgencio Zuniga in July.  

The non-televised undercard lineup will include unbeaten super bantamweight prospects Michael Angeletti (6-0, 5 KOs) and Jeremy Adorno (7-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round showdown, welterweight prospect Keeshawn Williams (9-1-1, 2 KOs) in a six-round matchup against Julio Rosa (5-1, 2 KOs), Cuban heavyweight Geovany Bruzón (7-1, 6 KOs) battling the unbeaten James Evans Jr. (4-0-1, 6 KOs) in a four/six round bout and unbeaten super bantamweight prospect Miguel Román (2-0) taking on fellow unbeaten José Negrete (2-0, 2 KOs).

#         #         #

ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

Wilder vs. Helenius will see former WBC Heavyweight World Champion and boxing superstar Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder take on top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator on Saturday, October 15 topping a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

In the co-feature, former IBF Super Middleweight Champion Caleb “Sweethands” Plant faces two-time WBC Super Middleweight Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator between 168-pound rivals.

The telecast will feature undefeated Cuban sensation Frank Sanchez battling Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron in a 10-round heavyweight duel, while top bantamweight contenders Gary Antonio Russell and Emmanuel Rodriguez meet in a 12-round rematch opening the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand www.foxdeportes.com, follow #WilderHelenius, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @PBConFOX, @FOXSports, @FOXDeportes, @TGBPromotions, and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/foxsports & www.facebook.com/foxdeportes.

LONDON, OCTOBER 11 – The undercard for Probellum Sheffield just got a whole lot spicier with the addition of an Olympic gold medallist and another British title eliminator.

Sunny Edwards defends his world flyweight title against Felix Alvarado on Friday, November 11 at the Utilita Arena in the Steel City, with Jack Bateson vs Shabaz Masoud providing the fan-approved chief support bout. 

And Probellum can today confirm the rest of the card, which makes its debut promotion in Sheffield among the best shows staged in the UK this year – and tickets start at just £35. 

Olympic middleweight champion Hebert Conceição is a special addition to the show as he makes his UK debut in an eight-round contest. 

The Brazilian hero, 2-0 in the pros, won gold in Tokyo after producing a stunning final round knockout of his Ukrainian opponent and his route to the top of the professional ranks takes him through Sheffield next month. 

Thomas Essomba and Marcel Braithwaite will battle it out for the right to fight for the British super flyweight title, at Probellum Sheffield. 

Injury delayed their final eliminator but on November 11 the pair – both former opponents of world champ Edwards – clash in a bout that is sure to go down well with British boxing fans. 

Sheffield-based Essomba vs Braithwaite, of Liverpool, comes before super bantamweights Bateson and Masoud meet in a final eliminator for the British title, of their own.

One of Great Britain’s most decorated female amateur fighters, Lisa Whiteside, is also set to return to action at Probellum Sheffield, next month. 

The ‘Lionheart’ brought an end to a near-three year spell out of the ring, in July, when she dropped the experienced Jasmina Nad, en route to a points win in Newcastle. 

Whiteside gears up for world title fights down the line, with a fight in Sheffield, the city in which she was based when part of the Great Britain amateur squad. 

The undercard is then packed out with some of Yorkshire’s most talented young fighters, with Sheffield’s ‘Golden Kid’ Kyle Yousef looking to extend his 17-0 record. 

Also fighting out of the Steel City, super lightweight Levi Kinsiona (9-2) – known as ‘The Real Deal’ – appears, as does unbeaten light heavyweight Khalid Ayub (3-0). 

They are joined by Sheffield-based Nicolie Campbell – the ‘Pretty Boy Assassin’ – as well as Leeds’ unbeaten Ishmael Davis (9-0) and Bradley Cousins, a light heavyweight prospect from Doncaster. 

Tickets for one of the UK’s best shows of 2022 can be bought here, via fighters or by searching for ‘Probellum Sheffield’ at Ticketmaster. 

To keep up to date with the latest news on Probellum Sheffield sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.???

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.?? 

HANOVER, MARYLAND (October 11, 2022)–On Saturday night, October 15th, Jeter Promotions returns to the Hall at Live! inside of Live Casino Hotel Maryland with an incredible night of boxing that will be headlined by an eight-round bout featuring Elijah Pierce taking on Daron Williams for the WBC Silver Super Bantamweight Title.

Jeter Promotions will undoubtedly will have their ninth consecutive capacity crowd at The Hall at Live!.

Pierce of Midwest City, Oklahoma, but now fighting out of Atlanta, has a record of 14-2 with 12 knockouts, and is currently riding a five-fight winning streak. The 26 year-old is a six-year veteran, and he has amassed big wins over Candaleio Alejandro Rochin (4-0), Divante Jones (9-1), Irvin Gonzalez (12-0), Jesse Garcia (10-0) and his last bout when he won a decision over Ryizeemmion Ford on June 17th in Cleveland.

Williams of Washington, D.C. is 9-1 with six knockouts. Like Pierce, Williams is 26 years-old and is a seven-year veteran. Williams has wins over Christian Juneau (1-0), Israel Valdez (1-0) and his last bout when he stopped Robert Ledesma on May 22, 2021 in Greenville, South Carolina. The only blemish on the record of Williams was to current number-three ranked Oleh Dovhun.

The card is loaded with competitive and fan-friendly bouts.

In six-round bouts:

Joseph Veazey (7-0, 4 KOs) of Baltimore, Maryland fights Rashad Kilpatrick (5-1, 2 KOs) of Waldorf, Maryland in a Beltway battle of welterweights.

Anthony Williams (6-1, 2 KOs) of Baltimore, Maryland fights crafty Derrick Vann (2-5) of Philadelphia in a super middleweight battle.

Brandon Chambers (8-0-1, 5 KOs) of Gwynn Oak, Maryland fights Vit Y (7-1-1, 4 KOs) of Rock Hill, South Carolina for the ABF USA Super Bantamweight title.

Mansaborie Conde (6-0, 5 KOs) of Laurel, Maryland fights late-replacement Brandon Clarke (2-3, 1KO) of Columbus, Ohio in a middleweight contest.

Jaqeem Hutcherson (6-1) of Capitol Heights, Maryland will look to avenge his only loss in a rematch against Ernest Hall (4-2, 1 KO) of Baltimore, Maryland in a super bantamweight fight. for the ABF Atlantic title.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Ahmad Muhammad Jones (2-0, 2 KOs) of Baltimore, Maryland fights Kani Burnside (1-0, 1 KO) of Ironton, Ohio in a super lightweight contest.

Dwayne Holmes (2-0, 2 KOs) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland scraps with Rensley Washington III (1-1) of Cincinnati, Ohio in a super bantamweight bout.

Francois Scarboro Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) of Cheverly, Maryland risks his perfect mark against Apolinar Lopez (0-1) of Keizer, Oregon super featherweight contest.

Super Lightweight Stacy Selby (3-0, 3 KOs) of Upper Marlboro, Maryland fights Maurice Anthony (3-4, 3 KOs) of Ypsalanti, MI

Pro debuting Jeffrey Yu of Vienna, VA takes on fellow debutant Mateo Diaz of Boise, Idaho in a junior lightweight contest.

Tickets for this great night of boxing are priced at $65-$250 and can be purchased HERE

The HALL at LIVE! is a 75,000-square-foot, three-story multi-use concert and event venue that features some of the nation’s best touring acts, comedians, championship boxing and other show-stopping entertainment. With a capacity of up to 4,800 persons, the state-of-the-art performance venue features three levels of seating: a main orchestra level, intimate loge-level boxes and a plush VIP Level with private bar, lounge and balcony. Each of these options afford spectacular views and immerse audiences in audio visual systems unparalleled in the region.

The $10 million state-of-the-art audio and visual system provides absolute acoustic perfection combined with stunning visual displays. The built-in performance stage, surrounded by massive, high resolution LED screens, is 60 feet wide by 40 feet deep and, from a technological standpoint, rivals the largest and most advanced performance venues anywhere. The HALL is the largest theater in any casino in the state of Maryland, as well as in Anne Arundel County. The HALL at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland is located at 7002 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover, Maryland 21076.

QUINCY, Mass. (October 10, 2022) – Undefeated Pittsfield (MA) Quintin Sumpter (5-0, 3 KOs heavyweight has been preparing a long time for his expected breakout fight on October 29^th against Jeremiah “Dream Land” Milton (6-0, 5 KOs) ) in a 6-round bout on the Jake Paul-Anderson Silva Pay-per-view undercard at Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

Sumpter was originally slated to fight Milton this past August 6^th on the Paul-Hasim Rahman, Jr. PPV card at the famed Madison Square Garden, but the entire card was canceled because Rahman couldn’t make the agreed upon weight.

Sumpter may still be fighting Milton, however, he’ll be traveling to Arizona instead of the Big Apple.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, Sumpter moved away in 2006 to attend college.

“It was very frustrating,” Sumpter admitted regarding the Aug. 6^th cancellation. “I got ready to fight and sacrificed a lot, but I’m back on track. I’m disappointed to not be fighting at Madison Square Garden, but I’ve never been to Arizona. It’s still a big fight.”

The 6’ 0”, 220-pound Sumpter will be giving away 4-inches and 10-pounds to Milton, who was a defensive end on Northeastern State University’s football team. Sumpter, though, doesn’t feel that he’s at a size disadvantage against Milton.

“He’s big and strong,” Sumpter commented, “but I’ve been fighting giants at training camp. One guy was 6’ 9”, 300 pounds. I’ll be there (vs. Milton). I’ve trained 8 weeks total for this fight.

“People know me in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Winning this fight will open a lot more eyes for me in boxing.”

“Quintin has done everything right from the onset of his pro career,” Sumpter’s promoter Chris Traietti (Granite Chin Promotions) added. “He is one of those guys that ‘gets it.’ He turned professional at an older age, so he knew right away that we have to move at a rapid but not reckless pace. He took on undefeated Tim Hatfield, then the rugged Tracey Johnson, all within his first 5 fights. Now for his sixth fight, he is going on the road to fight another undefeated prospect, who I’m confident won’t be undefeated after October 29^th. Winning this fight puts ‘Q’ on the ‘national prospect’ stage. The larger promoters will be taking a close look at him. I am never one to put the cart before the horse, so we will see what his options are after the 29^th, and we will make the best decision for the next step in his career.”

INFORMATION:  

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

Instagram: @chinchekker_qt

Chicago, IL (September 22, 2022)–The Popular Rosemont Rumble series continues on Saturday night, October 15th at The Parkway Sports Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Illinois.

The massive card is promoted by Hitz Boxing.

In an eight-round featured bout, super middleweight William Langston takes on undefeated Caleb Hernandez.

Langston of Kenosha, Wisconsin is 6-3 with four knockouts. The 28 year-old has a first rpund stoppage over Devin Tomko (7-1) on his mark. He is coming off a loss to prized amateur Khalil Coe on April 30th in New York’s Madison Square Garden.

Hernandez of Schereville, Indiana is 8-0 with seven knockouts. The 27 year-old Hernandez has quality wins over Michael Rycraft (4-0-1) and Ryan Adams (8-2-1). in his last outing, Hernandez took out Israel Echevarria in the opening round on May 7th in Gary, Indiana.

In an eight-round rematch, Jimmy Quiter takes on Simon Edward Buettner in a super middleweight fight.

Quiter of Oak Park, Illinois is 5-1 with five knockouts and was able to stop Buettner in the opening round on June 18th.  

Buettner of Carpentersville, Illinois is 8-2 with four knockouts. Buettner has wins over Sam Horowitz (2-0) and James Ballard (10-2).

Buettner feels that the first fight with Quiter ended with a premature stoppage. This Saturday night he will get his chance at redemption.

In a third co-feature bout, the wildly popular Thomas Hughes (10-2, 5 KOs) of Chicago returns to the Windy City in over three years, when he takes on Mirady Zola (3-1, 1 KO) of Canal Winchester, Ohio in a six-round super middleweight fight.

Zola, who showed his toughness in front of the Chicago fight crowd, will be fighting on a Hitz Boxing card for the third time in just six months.

“We are very excited about this card on Saturday. We are showcasing six terrific super middleweight fighters. All of these fighters are of quality, and over the next year or so, I can see us mixing and matching these guys to determine the next great super middleweight from Chicago, while making great fan-friendly fights between all of them,” said promoter Bobby Hitz.

The full undercard will be announced this week.

Tickets are priced between $50 – $200 and can be purchased by clicking: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rosemont-rumble-tickets-405439038077

Los Angeles, CA (October 10, 2022) Two of Boxing’s Best 140lb. Fighters in the World, Top Rated Contenders, #1 ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda, (35-2, 27 KO’s), of LaPuente, CA and #2 ranked, former World Champion Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis, (27-1, 23 KOs) of New Orleans, LA will battle for the prestigious WBC Super Lightweight World Championship over 12-rounds on Saturday, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA and broadcast live on Pay-Per-View, it was announced today.

Presented by MarvNation and produced by Legendz Entertainment, Tickets Will Go On-Sale This Friday, October 14 at 12:00 p.m. PT online at AXS.com. Dignity Health Sports Park is located at 18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, CA 90746.

This can’t-miss matchup of two elite boxing stars in their prime will be available on cable, satellite, telco and streaming PPV outlets throughout the US and Canada. More details on where to order the PPV telecast will be communicated in the coming weeks. 

“This is one of the most highly anticipated fights in boxing,” said Marvin Rodriguez, Founder and CEO of MarvNation Promotions. “Zepeda vs. Prograis promises action from the opening bell, and the winner will not only earn the WBC title, but will also be considered as the best 140-pounder in the world. It’s an honor to bring this event to fans in Southern California, and we look forward to announcing the undercard in the coming days.”

Stated Zepeda, “I’m really excited about this fight finally happening. This is not like other fights. This is the top two in the 140lb. division, fights like this you don’t see in boxing anymore. This is a real fight and the best part is that the fans are aware of this.” 

“I’ve been waiting for this fight for three years,” said Prograis. “I was a champion three years ago, and I stayed at 140 so that I can fulfill my goal and be a two-time champion at 140. I’ve been waiting long for this opportunity, and I believe November 26 is when I will unleash my three years of frustration. I could have gone to 147 and got more money, but I always wanted to be a two-time champion. I changed some things around, I got a nutritionist for my last fight. I am very grateful for this opportunity to come again, and I will not let it slip.”

“The Super Lightweight Championship of the World, a division of greatness, could not find a better match than Zepeda vs Prograis,” said Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the World Boxing Council. “Legends like Julio Cesar Chavez, Oscar De La Hoya, Kostya Tszyu and Floyd Mayweather just to name a few, have proudly held the WBC green and gold belt in this division. Both fighters are in their prime and ready to give the boxing world a memorable thriller as both have participated in fights of the year throughout their careers respectively.”

In recent years, Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda has stamped his fights as must-see; full of non-stop action combined with his fierce Mexican warrior spirit. On October 3, 2020, Zepeda defeated former world champion Ivan Baranchyk in an epic battle for the ages and the consensus ‘Fight of the Year’. The fearless Zepeda would stop Baranchyk in the fifth round in an ESPN broadcasted clash that saw each fighter rise from the canvas four times. Following a ten-round decision over perennial contender Hank Lundy on May 22, 2021, Zepeda would once again validate his remarkable reputation with a stunning first round knockout of top-rated contender Josue Vargas on October 30, 2021 at Madison Square Garden.

Zepeda first challenged for a world title against WBC Champion Jose Ramirez on February 10, 2019, losing a hotly contested 12-round majority decision.

Former WBA 140lb. World Champion Prograis has been dominant over the last two years in the division. Following a majority decision loss in London, England for the undisputed division crown and World Boxing Super Series Championship against Josh Taylor on October 26, 2019, the only blemish on a remarkable ten-year run, Prograis has relentlessly stopped each of his next three opponents leading up to the Zepeda world title fight.

Most recently, Prograis showcased his extraordinary power, traveling to Dubai stopping Tyrone McKenna in the sixth round on March 19, 2022. Previously, the exciting southpaw knocked out Ivan Redkach in the sixth round on April 17, 2021 and Juan Heraldez in the third round on October 30, 2021. Remarkably Prograis did not lose a round in any of the three contests.

Prograis won his first world title defeating WBA 140lb. World Champion Kiryl Relikh on April 27, 2019 with a brilliant performance capped by a sixth-round knockout.

More information and additional fights will be announced shortly. Details on media credentials will also be forthcoming.

BENSALEM, PA (OCTOBER 10, 2022)–Heavyweight Joey Dawejko won his second bout in five weeks as he won a six-round unanimous decision over Terrell Jamal Woods in the headline bout at Parx Casino in Bensalem, Pennsylvania.

The card was promoted by Joe Hand Promotions.

Dawejko of Philadelphia won by scores of 59-55 twice and 58-56 and is now 23-10-4. Woods of Forrest City, Arkansas is 28-54-9.

DeAngelo Fuentes stopped previously undefeated Kevin Ford in round two of their six-round featherweight bout.  

Towards the end of round two, Fuentes landed a hard flurry of punches that forced a referee stoppage at 2:58.

Fuentes of Coconut Creek, Florida is 8-1 with five knockouts. Ford of Saint Louis, Missouri is 4-1.

Daiyann Butt won a razor-thin six-round unanimous decision over Juan De La Cruz Rodriguez in a super lightweight contest.

In round three, Butt of Philadelphia scored a knockdown and that proved to be the difference on one scorecard as he won by scores of 58-55 twice and 57-56 to raise his record to 12-2. Rodriguez of Front Royal Virginia is 10-17-1.

Brendan O’Callaghan won a four-round unanimous decision over Jeremiah Kendrick in a super welterweight contest.

O’Callaghan of Philadelphia won by scores of 39-37 on all cards and is now 3-1-1. Kendrick of Philadelphia is 1-2.

Soslan Alborov needed just 73 seconds to take care of Saiffedine Mezzi in a scheduled four round super welterweight bout.

Alborov scored a knockdown in the first minute of the fight and then finished him off with a barrage of punches.

Alborov of Philadelphia via Russia is 1-1-1 with one knockout. Mezzi of Philadelphia via Tunisia was making his pro debut.

Boris Nde stopped Hakim Smith in round three of their four-round super lightweight bout.

Nde dominated the action and finished Smith at the end of round. The time was 3:00 for Nde of Harrisburg, PA who is 3-1. Smith of Philadelphia is 1-4-1.

Jahqwon Humbert made a successful pro debut with a four-round unanimous decision over Aaron Newmones in a welterweight battle.

Humbert of Raleigh, North Carolina won by scores of 40-36 on all cards and is now 1-0. Nemones of Atlantic City is 1-2.

JOE HAND PROMOTIONS RETURNS TO THE 2300 ARENA ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29TH WITH A BIG NIGHT OF BOXING THAT WILL BE HEADLINED  BY SOUTH PHILLY’S UNDEFEATED HEAVYWEIGHT SONNY CONTO

NEW YORK (October 10, 2022) – Split-T Management’s Andreas Katzourakis remained undefeated after stopping Cameron Krael after round four of their eight-round middleweight bout at the ULH Arena in Houston.

Katzourakis dominated the action as he showed very solid boxing skills that set up some hard body punches. Katzourakis started turning up the heat in round five as he had Krael on the ropes for much of the round, and opened up a cut over Krael’s right eye.

The durable Krael tried to continue into round five, but the fight was officially stopped 10 seconds into round six.

With the win, Katzourakis of Los Angeles via Athens, Greece is now 8-0 with six knockouts.  Krael of Las Vegas was stopped for just the third time in 45 bouts.

Tampa, Florida, October 8, 2022  —  On Friday, October 7 in the main event on ProBox TV, Former World Champion Can “Monster” Xu lost a split decision in his ring return against Brandon “Leoncito” Benitez.  The scores were 96-94, 96-94 for Benitez and 97-93 for Xu.

“On paper it’s an upset but the scoring, for me, the right guy won the fight,” said Paulie Malignaggi from ringside. “Xu can fight at a high level and Benitez proved tonight that he can fight at a high level. In the latter half of the fight Benitez was starting the exchanges and finishing the exchanges. But Xu stayed in his face the whole time. That was a good, entertaining fight and I wouldn’t mind seeing it again.”

Roy Jones Jr followed up with: “Xu cameo out on the attack frequently landing the jab but then by round 4 Benitez began countering with combinations. Xu was landing a nice overhand right but didn’t throw it enough and Benitez was landing about 6 shots to every one of Xu’s.”

In the co-featured bout, Cesar “Rainman” Francis KO’d Francisco “Roca” Armenta with an uppercut in round two.  

Francis rocked Armenta in the opening seconds of round two then landed a right uppercut at 2:39. Armenta hit the canvas and Roy Jones Jr stated: “Armenta is out cold.” Armenta landed flat on his back, the referee sent Francis to the neutral corner then knelt over Armenta and waved the fight off at 2:31.

“It was a beautiful performance,” said Francis following the KO. “I worked hard.  My corner made it a tough training camp and listen, I got the knockout baby. People don’t realize I have a lot of experience.  I have been in the game of boxing my whole life since I was eight.  This is incredible.  You have the 140 lb. “rain man” right here and ProBox TV has a great promotion, and they have a great fighter right here.”

As is customary on ProBox TV, “The Big Four,” comprising of Roy Jones Jr, Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi and Antonio Tarver, will called the fights from ringside.  Michael Goldberg handled blow-by-blow, and Claudia Trejos was the ringside reporter and post-fight interviewer.

It is $1.99 per month for a ProBox TV subscription.

Friday, October 7 Results:

10 Rounds

Benitez Wins Split Decision 96-94, 96-94, 93-97  

125.6 lbs. Can Xu, Beijing, China, Former WBA Featherweight Champion, 18-4, 3 KO vs.

126.2 lbs. Brandon Benitez, Queretaro, Mexico, 19-2, 7 KO’s            

Scheduled 10 Rounds

Francis wins by KO 2, 2:31.

147 lbs. Cesar Francis, Brooklyn, NY via San Miguelito, Panama, 12-0 7 KO’s.  vs.                140 lbs. Francisco Armenta, Los Mochis, Sinaloa, MX, 12-2, 4 KO’s 

Scheduled 6 Rounds

Valsaint Wins by TKO 2

162 lbs. Darrelle Valsaint, Orlando, FL, 6-0 5 KO’s           vs.

160.8 lbs. Paul Mendez, Delano, California, 21-4-2 11 KO’s 

8 Rounds

Islam Wins Unanimous Decision 80-71, 80-71, 80-71

162.6 lbs. Kanat Islam, California via Altay, China, 28-1 22 KO’s      vs.

166.8 lbs. Javier Maciel, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 34-17 23 KO’s

ProBox TV was originally founded by Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi, Antonio Tarver and CEO Garry Jonas.  Miguel Cotto recently joined the group.  In 2023 there will be one fight card per month streamed on ProBox TV in each of the USA, Puerto Rico (Cotto Promotions) and Mexico (Marquez Promotions).

Get the App HERE

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

WBC Super Welterweight Interim Title – 12 Rounds

Sebastian Fundora – 153 ½ lbs.

Carlos Ocampo – 153 ½ lbs.

Referee: Jack Reiss; Judges: Daniel Fitzgerald (Massachusetts), Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Lou Moret (Calif.)

WBC Middleweight Interim Title – 12 Rounds

Carlos Adames – 159 ¼ lbs. 

Juan Macias Montiel – 160 lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Josef Mason (Colo.)

IBF Junior Bantamweight World Title – 12 Rounds

Fernando Martinez – 114 ¾ lbs.

Jerwin Ancajas – 114 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Eddie Hernandez Sr.; Judges: Zachary Young (Calif.), Tiffany Clinton (Calif.), Ellis Johnson (Texas)

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING PRELIMS

Stream Live at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT

on the SHOWTIME SPORTS^® YouTube Channel

Welterweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Egidijus Kavaliauskas – 147 lbs.

Mykal Fox – 145 ¾ lbs.

Referee: Gerard White; Judges: Ivan Guillermo (Calif.), Jerry Cantu (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)

Featherweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Victor Slavinksyi – 126 ½ lbs.

Edward Vazquez – 129 ½ lbs.

Referee: Ray Corona; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Rudy Barragan (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)

** Contracted weight 127 lbs.; Fight is on.

Women’s Flyweight Bout – 10 Rounds

Gabriela Fundora – 111 ¼ lbs.

Naomi Reyes – 111 ½ lbs.

Referee: Eddie Hernandez Sr.; Judges: Pat Russell (Calif.), Ivan Guillermo (Calif.), Ralph McKnight (Calif.)

Veteran sportscaster Brian Custer will host the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast while versatile combat sports voice Mauro Ranallo will handle blow-by-blow action alongside Hall of Fame analyst Al Bernstein and three-division world champion Abner Mares. Three Hall of Famers round out the telecast team – Emmy^® award winning reporter Jim Gray, world-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon, Jr. and boxing historian Steve Farhood as unofficial scorer. The executive producer is four-time Emmy award winner David Dinkins, Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. Former junior middleweight world champion and SHOBOX: The New Generation^® commentator Raúl “El Diamante” Marquez and sportscaster Alejandro Luna serve as expert analysts in Spanish on Secondary Audio Programming (SAP). SHOBOX announcer and combat sports expert

Brian Campbell and his MORNING KOMBAT co-host Luke Thomas will call the action during the live-stream bouts.  

#          #          #

ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly-anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

NEW YORK – October 7, 2022 – Fast-rising blue-chip prospect Isaiah Steen will get a chance to slingshot himself up the super middleweight rankings when he takes on dangerous power-puncher Sena Agbeko on Friday, October 21 live on SHOWTIME at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT in the latest edition of SHOBOX: The New Generation. The telecast features four undefeated prospects and six fighters with a combined record of 87-3-2 and returns to Bally’s Atlantic City Casino and Resort, site of the first SHOBOX^® 21 years ago, for the second time in two months.

The heavy-handed Agbeko (26-2, 21 KOs) steps in to face Steen (16-0, 12 KOs) in the 10-round main event at 168 pounds after light heavyweight prospect Ali Izmailov withdrew from his main event with Radivoje “Hot Rod” Kalajdzic for health reasons. Both Steen and Agbeko are SHOBOX alumni, making their contest a classic crossroads matchup of prospects to determine who’s a contender and who has to work to get back into position in the division.

“Steen vs. Agbeko is an exciting main event and the winner of the fight will be a bona fide world title contender in the super middleweight division,” said promoter Dmitriy Salita. “This is an amazing matchup on a talent-stacked card featuring nothing but pick ‘em fights.”

The co-feature will match Sean Hemphill (14-0, 8 KOs) against David Stevens (11-0, 8 KOs) in an intriguing eight-round super middleweight contest between undefeated American prospects. Opening the broadcast will be perennial spoiler and SHOBOX alum Marquis Taylor (12-1-2, 1 KO) taking on undefeated Marlon Harrington (8-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round super welterweight attraction. Included in the telecast will be highlights of an intriguing eight-round clash between undefeated heavyweight prospects Moses Johnson (8-0-1, 7 KOs) and four-time Oregon Golden Gloves champion Elvis Garcia (12-0, 9 KOs).

The chiseled Agbeko represents the most accomplished opponent of Steen’s career, having gone the distance against undefeated contender and highly decorated amateur Vladimir Shishkin in February 2021 on SHOBOX. Agbeko has since won three straight matches, all by stoppages. Most recently he TKO’d then 22-1-1 Winfred Harris Jr. this past July to earn this shot. Originally from Accra, Ghana, home to many top Ghanaian boxers, such as two-division champion Azuman Nelson, Agbeko now calls Nashville, Tenn., home.

“I’m so excited for this opportunity. This is what I train for, to fight on the biggest stages,” Agbeko said. “I know he’s young and he’s hungry and has also been previously featured on the SHOBOX series but it’s not going to be easy for him. It’s going to be a battle of wills and may the better man win.”

Steen returns to SHOBOX after recording the biggest win of his career against the previously undefeated Kalvin Henderson on July 2021 on SHOBOX (Highlights HERE). An aggressive, come-forward fighter who likes to dig to the body, Steen is the half-brother of super welterweight contender and former U.S. Olympian Charles Conwell. The two shared the same card in August 2020 when Steen of Cleveland, Ohio showed off his power with a first-round TKO of tough Kenneth Council. That was the seventh time Steen stopped his opponent in the first round. Like his half-brother, the 6-2 Steen was a decorated amateur, going 85-15 in the unpaid ranks before he turned pro in 2016. Born in Detroit, Mich., Steen started boxing when he was seven.

“I’m grateful for this amazing opportunity,” Steen said, “and looking forward to facing a great opponent in Agbeko and showcasing my skills.”

Tickets for the event promoted by Salita Promotions are on sale now priced at $40, $100 and $150 and can be purchased at TicketWeb.com.

Hall of Famer Barry Tompkins calls the action from ringside with veteran combat sports reporter and MORNING KOMBAT host Brian Campbell and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts with Hall of Famer Steve Farhood remotely performing unofficial scoring duties.

SHOBOX: The New Generation is executive produced by Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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

About SHOBOX: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, SHOBOX: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The SHOBOX philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 86 fighters who have appeared on SHOBOX and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

Plant City, Florida, October 7, 2022 – China sensation and former world champion Can “Monster” Xu battles Brandon Benitez in the main event Friday, October 7, on ProBox TV and the anticipation of his fans back home is tremendous. There have been over 250,000 downloads of the ProBox TV app this week alone.

“We are pleased but we are not surprised at the allure Xu has in China, and it can be seen in the numbers,” said ProBox TV CEO Garry Jonas. “Can Xu is the Mexican equivalent of Canelo, and China has ten times the population of Mexico.” 

“I took this fight here on ProBox TV because of the relationship they have with China,” said Xu.  “My desire is to carry the Chinese flag with pride and promote the sports in my home country.  I see this as a great opportunity to show the young men and women of China all of the opportunities that come with boxing.” 

This evening’s ProBox TV card begins at 9 pm ET / 6 pm PT.

It can be viewed at ProBoxTV.com and on the ProBox TV App.  Get the App HERE

The ProBox TV subscription is $1.99 per month.

ProBox TV was originally founded by Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi, Antonio Tarver and CEO Garry Jonas.  Miguel Cotto recently joined the group.  In 2023 there will be one fight card per month streamed on ProBox TV in each of the USA, Puerto Rico (Cotto Promotions) and Mexico (Marquez Promotions).

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

Tampa, Florida, October 7, 2022  —  Former World Champion and Chinese sensation Can “Monster” Xu Friday night ProBox TV bill in his ring return against Brandon “Leoncito” Benitez in a ten-round featherweight China versus Mexico donnybrook. It will be one of four bouts streamed on ProBox TV and on the ProBox TV App beginning at 9 pm ET / 6 pm PT. 

In the co-featured bout, Cesar “Rainman” Francis will clash with Francisco “Roca” Armenta for the World Boxing Organization (WBO) NABO junior welterweight title.

Xu returns to the ring after a hard-fought loss to world featherweight champion Leigh Wood in the United Kingdom, and after making changes within his camp, the Chinese star feels rejuvenated as he sets his sights on becoming a two-time world champion in the featherweight division. “I will not be his steppingstone for bigger opportunities. I am the mountain he cannot climb,” said Xu regarding Benitez braggadocious internet banter. “I have trained hard for this fight. I am in great condition.  My performance against Benitez is the beginning of my comeback and the road back to a world title.”

“I am back better more focused,” said Paul Mendez. “I am a father now, so I have a different perspective on life.  I know Valsaint is young and hungry like I was once. Now I have experience. I will use it to put him through a test.”

“This is a step up for me in the level of opponent,” said Valsaint. “I have had only 5 fights, but I am ready for this challenge. This is the test that I need.”

As is customary on ProBox TV, “The Big Four,” comprising of Roy Jones Jr, Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi and Antonio Tarver, will be calling the fights from ringside.  Michael Goldberg handles blow-by-blow, and Claudia Trejos is the ringside reporter and post-fight interviewer.

It is $1.99 per month for a ProBox TV subscription.

Here are the four bouts to be streamed:

10 Rounds WBO NABO Jr Welterweight Title  

125.6 lbs. Can Xu, Beijing, China, Former WBA Featherweight Champion, 18-3, 3 KO’s  vs.

126.2 lbs. Brandon Benitez, Queretaro, Mexico, 18-2, 7 KO’s        

10 Rounds WBO NABO Jr Welterweight Title  

147 lbs. Cesar Francis, Brooklyn, NY via San Miguelito, Panama, 11-0 6 KO’s.  vs.             

140 lbs. Francisco Armenta, Los Mochis, Sinaloa, MX, 12-1 4 KO’s           

6 Rounds Middleweights    

162 lbs. Darrelle Valsaint, Orlando, FL, 5-0 4 KO’s  vs.

160.8 lbs. Paul Mendez, Delano, California, 21-3-2 11 KO’s 

8 Rounds Middleweights  

162.6 lbs. Kanat Islam      California via Altay, China, 28-1 22 KO’s  vs.

166.8 lbs. Javier Maciel, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 34-17 23 KO’s

ProBox TV was originally founded by Roy Jones Jr., Juan Manuel Marquez, Paulie Malignaggi, Antonio Tarver and CEO Garry Jonas.  Miguel Cotto recently joined the group.  In 2023 there will be one fight card per month streamed on ProBox TV in each of the USA, Puerto Rico (Cotto Promotions) and Mexico (Marquez Promotions).

Get the App HERE

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

QUINCY, Mass. (October 6, 2022) – Granite Chin Promotions will pay tribute to the late trainer Jimmy Farrell on Thanksgiving Eve, November 23rd, with the presentation of the inaugural “Jimmy Farrell Fight Night” at the Bridgewater Veterans Club in Bridgewater, Massachusetts.

Farrell, the well-respected trainer from Quincy (MA), recently passed away after a long battle with cancer. He fought in the 1970’s as a featherweight, compiling a 17-4-3 (6 KOs) pro record. He trained under his father, the late Jim Farrell, Jr., as well as Hall of Famer Cus D’Amato.

Jimmy operated several gyms in the Quincy area during his training career that spanned nearly five decades. He trained more than 40 amateur boxing champions, in addition to numerous professionals such as Chris and Vinnie Traieti, Mark DeLuca, Ryan Kielczewski, Steve Vukosa, Nick Cyr, Nick and Mike Morganelli.

(L-R) – Derrick Whitley, Chris Traietti, and the late Jimmy Farrell

“Jimmy was and always will be a huge part of my life,” Granite Chin president Chris Traietti commented. “The days in the gym, the crazy road trips, the wins, the losses, and life lessons will be stuff that I will cherish for as long as I live. Jimmy was a larger-than-life person who was the most popular guy in any room he walked into. He had no hesitation in saying what was on his mind in his own ‘Jimmy Farrell charm.’ When his friend Dan O’Malley gave his eulogy, the thing that stood out the most was everyone knew him as ‘Jimmy.’ You don’t have to say his last name, everyone in the boxing world when you mentioned ‘Jimmy,’ you were talking about Jimmy Farrell. He was an unbelievable trainer who lived boxing. I’ve never met anyone more passionate about anything the way Jimmy was about boxing. He loved all levels of the sport. He was as passionate about working with a kid who was in the gym for the first time as he was about working with nationally ranked amateurs or a top local pro. So, it is only fitting to do a Pro-Am in his memory.

Along with his family – they were amazing – Old Colony Hospice was great helping Jimmy’s family care for him in the final days. Everyone went above and beyond to send Jimmy into the afterlife with dignity. I am looking forward to donating part of our sponsorships, gate, and 50/50 raffle sales to this great organization to help them continue the work they do.”

“Jimmy Farrell Fight Night” will feature a Pro-Am card, topped by a 6-round battle between Anthony “The Gentle Savage” Andreozzi (3-2, 1 KOs), of Swansea (MA), and Woburn’s Julien “Black Dragon” Baptiste (4-2, 2 KOs) for the vacant Massachusetts State Welterweight Championship.

The Andreozzi vs. Baptiste title fight was originally scheduled this past August 6th at the same venue, but Andreozzi came down ill on fight night and that fight was canceled.

Atlanta light heavyweight James “Savage “ Hagler, Jr. (3-1, 1 KO) – the grandson of Hall of Famer Marvelous Marvin Hagler – takes on Scott “Bombz” Lampert (3-6, 2 KOs) in the 4-found co-featured event.

Additional pro matches, as well as the amateur portion of the card, will soon be announced.

Tickets are priced at $60.00 (floor seats), $40.00 (standing room only), and $400.00 for ringside tables of 4 are available for purchase at https://granite-chin-promotions.ticketleap.com.

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

INFORMATION:

Facebook.com/GraniteChin

Twitter: @Granite_Chin

SAN DIEGO, CA (Oct. 6, 2022) – Former IBF Super Featherweight World Champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz, Jr. (32-2-1, 15 KOs) hosted a media workout at the BXNG CLUB in San Diego for his upcoming 12-round crossroads fight against undefeated, rising lightweight division star William “El Camarón” Zepeda (26-0, 23 KOs). The fight is set to take place at the Pechanga Arena San Diego on Saturday, Oct. 29 on DAZN.

Also participating in the media workout were Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda undercard fighters. Newly announced co-main event, Alexis “Lex” Rocha (20-1, 13 KOs) will defend his NABO Welterweight title against hungry challenger from Tijuana, Mexico, Jesus “Ricky” Perez (24-3, 18 KOs) in a 10-round fight. Monterrey, Mexico’s Arely Mucino (31-3-2, 11 KOs) will challenge Chimba, Argentina’s World Champion Leonela Yudica (17-0-3) for the IBF Female World Title in a 10-round match. Jorge “El Niño” Chávez (3-0, 3 KOs) will participate in a six-round super featherweight fight against Houston, Texas’s Adrian Leyva (3-3-2, 1 KO).

Here’s what the fighters had to say:
JOSEPH “JOJO” DIAZ, FORMER IBF SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“It gives me goosebumps while here in San Diego knowing that I am going to fight here soon in a couple of weeks. We are three weeks out, and I’m ready and excited.”

“It’s going to be a great night of fights. I know my opponent (William Zepeda) is going to bring his all. But I am ready to execute and do what I do best.”

“I am 150% confident that my hand will be raised after that bell rings. My training and preparation will make sure of that.”

ALEXIS “LEX” ROCHA, NABO WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION:
“I’m feeling really good. Training hard, staying focused on my fight. I’m continuing to make all the sacrifices to stay at the top of my game come October 29.”

“I know my opponent will come in very determined, and very motivated to win because he’s got a big stage – the Golden Boy stage – to come and perform on and try to steal the show and upset my plans. That doesn’t sit well with me – he’s going to try to come and take away everything that I’ve worked hard for.”

JESUS “RICKY” PEREZ, WELTERWEIGHT FIGHTER:
“This is a fight that we were destined to fight in. We have prepared very hard for this fight. Everyone will see the results from our preparation come fight night. I hope that fans get to see a big performance from the both of us. I feel very proud to represent the people of Tijuana and San Diego since I train here. I am going to feel right at home. This isn’t the first time I am the underdog, and I’ve given my fair share of surprises as the b-side.”

ARELY MUCINO, FEMALE FLYWEIGHT CONTENDER:
“I am excited and filled with so much enthusiasm and adrenaline now that we are three weeks out. Leonela is a great champion and has successfully defended her title many times. Knowing that, we expect for this to be a tough fight because she is a tremendous fighter. But we also know our great potential and it’s not the first time I’m going into the ring without a title in my hands. God has been very good to place the right people in my life at the right time and I feel prepared with this great team behind me.”

JORGE “EL NIÑO DORADO” CHAVEZ, SUPER FEATHERWEIGHT PROSPECT:
“This camp was definitely different. We tried to come into this fight relaxed so we can feel like nothing’s changed and that we’re just here to do our jobs.”

“I feel motivated to show fans who I truly am. In the past couple of years and even months I have developed more as a human being and a business-oriented person. I’m really happy to be fighting in my hometown – I didn’t think that this would happen so soon in my career. We are making the most out of this opportunity.”

Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda is a 12-round fight presented by Golden Boy Promotions. The fight will take place on Saturday, October 29 and will be broadcast live exclusively on DAZN worldwide. The event is sponsored by Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle” and “BetOnline – Your Online Sportsbook Experts.

Media interested in credentials can apply at https://emcevents.com/diaz_zepeda.html. Media applications are due EOD October 21.

Tickets for Diaz, Jr. vs. Zepeda are on sale and are priced at $125, $80, $60, $40 and $25 not including applicable service charges. Tickets will be available for purchase at AXS.com, PechangaArenaSD.com and GoldenBoyPromotions.com.

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

BENSALEM, PA (OCTOBER 6, 2022)–Weights for Friday night’s Joe Hand Promotions card at Parx Casino

Joey Dawejko 256.6 – Terrell Jamal Woods 242

Kevin Ford 124.4 – D’Angelo Fuentes 126.6

Daiyann Butt 143.3 – Juan De La Cruz Rodriguez 144

Brendan O’Callaghan 155.9 – Jeremiah Kendrick 156.2

Soslan Alborov 153.5 – Salfeddine Mezzi 153.5

Boris Nde 140.5 – Hakim Smith 139.9

Aaron Newmones 146.8 – Jahqwon Humbert 146.6

Promoter: Joe Hand Promotions

Venue: Parx Casino

1st Bell: 7 PM ET

THE QUEENSBERRY PAIR of Liam Davies and Ionut Baluta will contest the vacant European super bantamweight championship at the Telford International Centre on Saturday November 19, exclusively live on BT Sport.

The bumper Telford card includes David Avanesyan defending his European welterweight title for a sixth time against his mandatory challenger Jon Miguez from Spain, and will also see the return of Anthony Yarde ahead of his world title business in early 2023.

Tickets for Davies vs Baluta at the Telford International Centre on Saturday November 19 are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

Telford native Davies, 26, has enjoyed a remarkable run since becoming a Queensberry fighter, with four straight wins resulting in a successful shot at the WBC International Silver belt and, last time out in June, becoming British champion by defeating the title holder Marc Leach via a unanimous decision to take his professional record to 12-0 (5 KOs).

The now Bushey-based Romanian Baluta, 28, holds a record of 15-3 (3 KOs) and in May he inflicted defeat on Brad Foster to become WBC International champion. A former WBO European title holder at bantamweight, Baluta has victories over Irish stars TJ Doheny and David Oliver Joyce on his record and only lost by a narrow margin to Michael Conlan.

Avanesyan (29-3-1, 17 KOs) returns to action after making short work of the previously unbeaten Oskari Metz at Wembley in March.

The 34-year-old is on a run of six stunning stoppages and remains firmly in position for a shot at the WBC world title.

Miguez (17-0, 8 KOs) fought a British fighter last time out in his home country of Spain, defeating James Moorcroft via a sixth round stoppage. The former Spanish welterweight champion won the EBU European Union title with a points success over Aitor Nieto in March of this year.

Yarde (22-2, 21 KOs) will be back in the ring for the first time since his resounding rematch victory over Lyndon Arthur in December of last year.

He is next in line for a shot at unified world champion Artur Beterbiev and this major collision at light heavyweight will take place in January. The fight was originally scheduled for October of this year but an injury sustained by the WBO, WBC and IBF champion resulted in the delay and Yarde preparing with a warm-up fight.

Local lad Davies is thrilled that he will once again enjoy home advantage and keep the boxing momentum going in Telford.

“It is good for myself and the town really, bringing boxing back,” he said. “That is what I wanted to do, it was always part of the plan and now I am in a position where it is happening, so I am grateful.

“I get a lot of feedback locally. Last time it was great, we sold a lot of tickets and it was busy. This time I am sure there will be even more eyes on it, with it being another big fight. It gives you that bit more motivation to do the business because, with it being in your hometown, you want to make sure you win in style.

“Baluta has had some good wins and he throws a lot, so I think he will be there to be hit and that will work in my favour. It will definitely be my toughest fight and they are all coming at the right time for me.

“I am on a roll now, on the way up and I will take every fight as it comes. The European title is another step up and I am more than ready.”

For his part, Baluta issued a short and sharp message to his fellow challenger for the prestigious European honour.

“I can’t wait for this fight. This belt is mine. Davies, you will feel sorry for accepting this fight.”

Also appearing on the Telford card is a fight where two prospects put it all on the line, the unbeaten super lightweight Eithan James (9-0) from Northampton goes up against Connor Parker (14-1, 1 KO), Zach Parker’s cousin from Woodville in Derbyshire, for the vacant WBO European title.

“Telford is once again playing host to what will be a quality night of fights topped by two European title clashes,” added promoter Frank Warren. “The European super bantamweight clash between Liam Davies and Ionut Baluta will be a terrific scrap as neither fighter appears to possess a reverse gear.

“Liam has made massive strides since we teamed up with him and I was so impressed with the way he dealt with a particularly tricky customer in Marc Leach to win the British title.

“Ionut, who is the more experienced of the pair, showed his class in winning his WBC belt against Brad Foster and he will rightly consider himself a world level super bantam. This fight has got all the makings of a classic in what is a highly competitive division.

“David Avanesyan will once again demonstrate why he is best in class in Europe with a staggering sixth defence of his European welterweight title against an ambitious and unbeaten opponent in Jon Miguez.

“David is obviously thinking bigger than European titles, given his run of form, but until he gets a meaningful world level fight in the diary he is rightly not going to surrender his belt.

“I am delighted to be getting Anthony Yarde out in a keep-busy fight ahead of his world title challenge in January. There is always the temptation to simply play the waiting game but, with Artur Beterbiev not currently available due to injury, Anthony needs some time in the ring.

“Eithan James and Connor Parker were originally due to fight in June, but this was postponed due to Connor picking up an injury. We are getting it on again now with the WBO European title at stake and this should be a top fight between two young prospects willing to take a significant step up in class.”

Nottingham light heavyweight Ezra Taylor (3-0, 2), Telford super lightweight Macaulay Owen (3-0, 1), Dublin lightweight Willo Hayden (4-0, 1), Liverpool super bantam Brad Strand (8-0, 3), York super welter George Davey (5-0-1) and Telford bantam Raheem Muhammed (2-0) also feature on the show.

Tickets for Davies vs Baluta at the Telford International Centre on Saturday November 19 are on sale now, available exclusively from ticketmaster.co.uk.

MEDIA ACCREDITATION: Please complete this form to apply to cover the fights in Telford on 19 November.

CARSON, CALIF. – October 6, 2022 – Unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora promised to deliver another memorable night of action at Thursday’s final press conference before he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME this Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

Thursday’s press conference also featured top middleweight Juan Macias Montiel, who squares off against Carlos Adames for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, plus IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez and former world champion Jerwin Ancajas, who meet in a rematch that kicks off the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

The event also saw rising unbeaten flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora, the younger sister of headliner Sebastian, as she prepares to kick off a three-fight live streaming presentation on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT in a 10-round fight against Mexico’s Naomi Reyes.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Westin LAX as they near their respective showdowns this Saturday night:

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA

“I feel like I proved to the people that I’m an elite fighter. I can hang with anyone and I can stop them as well. I showed that I have what it takes to become a world champion.

“I’m just going to put on a great performance for the fans. We trained really hard in camp. I’m only worried about what I do in the ring.

“I’m going to keep sending the same message as always, and that’s saying clearly that I’m going to become a world champion at 154 pounds.

“I can guarantee the fans get their money’s worth. We put on a great show every single time, but now that I’m headlining my own show, I’m really going to make sure I put it all on the line. Plus, with my sister on the card, it’s just more motivation to perform.

“I’m excited to be in this position. I’ve fought on a lot of big undercards as well and now it’s my time to take center stage.

“I don’t pay attention to any hype. Everyone has their own opinion, but I’m fighting for the people that support me and I’m going to reward them with something memorable.

“I’ve shown that I have a strong uppercut, but we worked on a lot of different things in this training camp. We work on everything and we work on being consistent so that we can break our opponent down.

“Ocampo might come into this fight to display his boxing skills, or he might come on the inside looking to exchange. I’m confident in my corner and how we prepared and it’s going to show in the ring.”

CARLOS OCAMPO

“I’m feeling better than ever right now. I’m ready for what’s going to be a great challenge. This is going to be a war on Saturday night.

“You have to take the opportunities that you’re given. I know that Fundora is a strong fighter, but I’m going to be ready for him.

“I’m going to lean on my preparation and training. I’m strong just like Sebastian is. I’m going to have to stick to my training and the results will come with that.

“I’m really proud to represent Mexico on the big stage. That’s my duty and that’s my job on Saturday night. The Mexican fans are all the way behind me and I feel their support

“I want the fans to know that I’m fighting for them. I’ve put in the work day in and day out in training camp, so I know I have to make the most of it. You’re not going to want to miss this one.

“My goal is to wake up on Sunday morning and have it be the happiest day of my life. I want to party with that belt on Saturday night.

“This is going to be a spectacular fight. There are going to be fireworks on Saturday night.”

JUAN MACIAS MONTIEL

“My fight against Jermall Charlo gave me a lot of experience and a lot of confidence. I learned a lot. I came out on my feet and showed that I could go toe-to-toe with the best fighter in the division.

“Every fighter has to be confident. I’m glad Adames is confident. But I have the utmost confidence in myself and I’m ready to be the very best version of myself on Saturday night.

“My record speaks for itself. I’ll be ready to knock him out. But if we go 12 rounds, I’m prepared for it. We worked hard so that I’ll be able to take on any challenge that comes my way.

“We’re going to go in there and leave it all in the ring. I already showed that I can take a shot from the best. I don’t know if we can say the same about my opponent, but we’re going to find out Saturday.

“I’m only focused on this fight. A rematch with Jermall Charlo is of course what I want, but I can’t get there unless I win spectacularly in this fight. Saturday night is my time to prove myself.”

FERNANDO MARTINEZ

“I’m thankful for the opportunity to be showcased once again on this stage. You can expect another all-out war. We’re going to put on a show and give the fans a great fight on Saturday night.

“It’s going to be a hard fight, but being the champion is a responsibility that I take with humility. I have to keep my feet on the ground and make the fans in Argentina happy. The only way to do that is to give it my all on Saturday night and defend my title.

“I have a plan A and a plan B. We’ll be ready for absolutely anything. It’s going to be another great show for fans all over the world. Everyone is going to be happy that they tuned into this fight.

“I’m very motivated for this fight, as much or more than the first time we fought. We’re familiar with each other now, but I’m not taking anything for granted.”

JERWIN ANCAJAS

“I’m very happy to be back here in this position. We worked really hard in training and got ourselves in great condition so that we can get our belt back.

“I was not in as good of shape in our last fight. I fought toe-to-toe because my legs were cramping in the fight. Now we’ve prepared for what he does in the ring and we’ll be ready to reclaim our belt.

“This will be a big win for me and for my country. I want to bring this belt back home and be a proud champion for the Philippines.

“I can’t wait to get in the ring. Winning my title back is all I’ve been thinking about since we first fought. I know I have what it takes and I’m going to prove it on Saturday night.”

GABRIELA FUNDORA

“It’s very exciting to be here in our hometown fighting together. It doesn’t happen very often. We’re going to bring fireworks and I hope the fans enjoy it.

“The fans should expect a lot of action. We worked really hard in training camp and it’s going to show up in the ring on fight night.

“From what I’ve seen I’m facing a good defensive fighter, but we prepared for that kind of style. I’m very confident with the work we put in at the gym.

“It’s really cool to be fighting on the live stream before my brother’s show. I know that I enjoy watching myself fight and I feel like the fans are going to enjoy it as well.”

#         #         #

ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING^® telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly-anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

CARSON, CALIF. – October 6, 2022 – Three exciting showdowns featuring contenders and rising prospects will stream live on the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel and SHOWTIME^® Boxing Facebook page this Saturday, October 8 in a Premier Boxing Champions event from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif.

With action kicking off at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT, the COUNTDOWN show, hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell, features veteran welterweight contenders Egidijus “Mean Machine” Kavaliauskas and Mykal Fox squaring off in a 10-round bout. Featherweight contenders Viktor Slavinskyi and Edward Vazquez also meet in an eight-round duel, while unbeaten flyweight prospect Gabriela Fundora, the younger sister of unbeaten headliner Sebastian Fundora, kicks off the show battling Mexico’s Naomi Reyes in a 10-round fight.

The preliminary bouts will lead up to a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT featuring Interim WBC Super Welterweight Champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora defending his belt against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo in the main event.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com.

The stacked non-televised undercard lineup also includes unbeaten lightweight prospects Justin Cardona (8-0, 6 KOs) and Angel Alejandro (10-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round matchup, Filipino Olympic bronze medalist Eumir Marcial (2-0, 1 KO) taking on Steven Pichardo (8-2-1, 2 KOs) in a four-round middleweight attraction and super welterweight Brandon Lynch (11-1-1, 8 KOs) facing Argentina’s Roque Junco (11-12-1, 6 KOs) for eight-rounds of action.

Rounding out the card will be unbeaten Phoenix-native Elijah Garcia (11-0, 9 KOs) battling Mexico’s Edgar Valenzuela (7-1, 6 KOs) in a six-round middleweight duel, unbeaten featherweight Shon Mondragon (7-0-1, 3 KOs) in a six-round bout and featherweight Jose Perez (10-1-2, 4 KOs) stepping into the ring for a six-round showdown.

A two-time Olympian for his native Lithuania, Kavaliauskas (22-2-1, 18 KOs) now fights out of California as he seeks a second shot at a 147-pound world title. The 34-year-old came up short in his first attempt, dropping a 2019 title bout against Terence Crawford before most recently losing to unbeaten Vergil Ortiz Jr. in August 2021. He will be opposed by Maryland’s Fox (22-3, 5 KOs), who returns to the ring after dropping a controversial decision to Gabriel Maestre in August 2021. Standing at nearly six-feet-four-inches tall, the 26-year-old has used his size and boxing acumen to establish himself as a crafty contender in a pro career that dates back to 2014.

Originally from Ukraine and residing in Los Angeles, Slavinskyi (13-1-1, 6 KOs) will look to bounce back from his first defeat on October 8, which came via majority decision against hard-hitting contender Claudio Marrero in February. The 32-year-old had previously ridden a six-bout winning streak into that fight, which included a decision triumph over Leduan Barthelemy in June 2021. He will face the 27-year-old Vazquez (12-1, 3 KOs), a Fort Worth, Texas-native who most recently defeated Jose Argel in July. Vazquez’s only blemish came via split-decision against the unbeaten Raymond Ford in February.

Trained by her father Freddy alongside her brother Sebastian, Fundora (8-0, 4 KOs) has impressed since turning pro in May 2021, dominating her competition on her way to eight early wins. The 20-year-old from Coachella, Calif., will return to Dignity Health Sports Park for the third time after earning her first two pro victories at the venue. She will battle Nayarit, Mexico’s Reyes (9-1, 5 KOs), who turned pro in 2016 and suffered her only loss via decision in 2018. Since then, Reyes has put together five-straight victories, with four coming by stoppage.

#         #         #

ABOUT FUNDORA VS. OCAMPO

Fundora vs. Ocampo will see unbeaten super welterweight sensation Sebastian “The Towering Inferno’’ Fundora seek to continue his dominance and demonstrate why he’s one of the most feared fighters in boxing when he defends his Interim WBC Super Welterweight Title against former title challenger Carlos Ocampo live on SHOWTIME on Saturday, October 8 from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. headlining a thrilling Premier Boxing Champions event.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will see top middleweights Carlos Adames and Juan Macias Montiel square off for the Interim WBC Middleweight Title in the co-main event, while IBF Junior Bantamweight World Champion Fernando Martinez meets former champion Jerwin Ancajas in a highly anticipated 12-round rematch to open the telecast at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

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

LOS ANGELES, OCTBER 6 – A buzzing O’Shaquie Foster has promised he will dominate the super featherweight division after his world title shot was confirmed.

Foster has been ordered to face Mexico’s Rey Vargas for the vacant WBC 130lbs title, following the decision of champion Shakur Stevenson to move up in weight.

The sanctioning body has confirmed a “free negotiation” period has begun to stage the super featherweight showdown, and that the winner must make two mandatory title defences.

USA’s Foster (19-2, 11KOs) woke on Monday morning to messages on his phone, confirming the WBC’s ruling that he must face Vargas, who moves up a division having been world featherweight champ.

“It’s a dream come true,” Foster told Probellum.com. “And I’m so happy, I can’t even hide it.

“It’s something that I’ve been working for since I was eight years old. I never had a dream to be an Olympian, it was always to be a world champion so I’m feeling great and I’m ready to put on a show for the world.

“I feel like everything is happening at the right time and it’s my time to take over. I would love to unify once I get the title and then go undisputed if I can. I’ve got big, big, big aspirations coming up. We’re going to make it happen.”

The man known as ‘Ice Water’ had a strong feeling in his gut that the WBC would instruct him to face Vargas next, and so Foster spent time last week studying the man who would become his new rival.

“For some reason it was strongly fitting in my head that it might be Vargas next, just because he was a champion trying to move up,” Foster said.

“So, I paid attention to him a lot that day. I’ve got a good idea of what Vargas is about.

“I believe in fate, because if it wasn’t for fate, I wouldn’t be here. I’m here for a reason. I feel like everything’s happening at the right time. It’s all coming together.

“He’s not your typical Mexican fighter, he’s rangy, but I see the things that I can take advantage of. I don’t want to say too much now, because this is big, but most definitely see a lot a lot of things I would take advantage of.”

To keep up to date with the latest news on Foster vs Vargas, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.??

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.

About Probellum???

Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promoter, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.??

Following the success of the opening two shows in December 2021, Probellum held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai as well as a packed card in Newcastle.

The world title action then headed Liverpool in April and Probellum returns to the city on Saturday, October 15 when Peter McGrail headlines before Sunny Edwards defends his world title in Sheffield on November 11.

Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis and Dina Thorslund. ?

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.???

NEW YORK – October 6, 2022 – Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME SPORTS^® today announced that former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell and elite mixed martial arts striker Uriah Hall will face off in a professional boxing match on Saturday, October 29 as part of the SHOWTIME PPV event headlined by Jake “The Problem Child” Paul vs. UFC legend Anderson “The Spider” Silva at Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) in Glendale, Ariz., just outside Phoenix. Both Bell and Hall will make their pro boxing debuts in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 195 pounds and will come face to face for the first time during a virtual press conference on Thursday, October 13 hosted by Ariel Helwani. Tickets for Paul vs. Silva are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. 

A strong, intimidating presence with a piston-like right hand, Hall is a 38-year-old former MMA standout who made his mark in both UFC and BELLATOR as a vicious striker. Hall (17-11, 14 KOs MMA record) is tied with Silva and Thiago Silva (no relation) for the most KO/TKOs in UFC middleweight history with eight. Born in Jamaica and raised in New York, Hall showcased his finishing skills when he knocked out Adam Cella with a spinning back kick to the head in the first round of a bout in The Ultimate Fighter series. That performance earned him comparisons to MMA legend Anderson Silva. Hall and Silva eventually met in 2020 with Hall walking away with a fourth-round TKO. He went on to beat former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman in April 2021 via first-round knockout as Weidman suffered a gruesome leg injury just 17 seconds into their bout. Hall started his career 4-0, highlighted by a TKO victory over Edwin Aguilar at BELLATOR 11. He is currently trained by Sayif Saud at the Fortis Gym in Dallas, Texas.

“Le’Veon Bell, I hope you bring your best,” said Hall. “I know I will. Thank you to Most Valuable Promotions for the opportunity.”

A former Michigan State standout and top NFL running back for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets, Bell is no stranger to boxing. The Columbus, Ohio native spent the past seven years sharpening his boxing mechanics as he readied himself for the gridiron, and that fluency in a boxing ring was on display last month when he flattened legendary NFL running back Adrian Peterson with a one-punch knockout that quickly went viral. Bell and Peterson clashed in an exhibition bout that was conducted under the auspices of the California State Athletic Commission with CSAC officials. The bout ended in the fifth round when the 6-foot-1 Bell connected on a straight right hand that put Peterson on his back and rendered him unable to continue. It was a startling display of power, not unlike Jake Paul’s one-punch knockout of Tyron Woodley last December, and it showed off Bell’s commitment and proficiency in boxing. The 30-year-old Bell has relocated to Los Angeles, where he currently trains full time at the Fortune Gym under the watchful eye of respected, no-nonsense trainer Justin Fortune, famous for his work with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao. Known for his long strides and ability to stop on a dime and accelerate, Bell played in the NFL from 2013 to 2021, also suiting up for the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was a two-time First Team All-Pro, two-time Second Team All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler.

“As soon as Most Valuable Promotions approached me about joining the Paul-Silva pay-per-view, I told them, ‘I want in,’ and didn’t care who the opponent was,” Bell said. “Uriah Hall is going to feel my punching power and tap out like he’s getting submitted. He is not built like me.”  

“Adding NFL superstar Le’Veon Bell to the card only increases this fight’s star power and to have him go head-to-head with a fighter as experienced and dangerous as Uriah Hall – it’s going to be fireworks,” said Jake Paul. “Taking on this challenge is proof that Bell, like myself, is serious about professional boxing and after his knockout of Adrian Peterson, he looks like a force to be reckoned with. Hall on the other hand has already proven himself multiple times in the UFC, and we know what he is capable of. I’m keeping a close eye on this one and may even take on the winner in the future.”

“I’m just as excited to watch Hall vs. Bell as I am for Paul vs. Silva. You have a legitimate top-10 MMA striker versus a world-class athlete who has proven he has true boxing skills and knockout power,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of MVP. “This fight elevates our pay-per-view to a new level, and these guys will undoubtedly put on an unforgettable fight for the fans in the stands and those tuning in.”

International superstar and serial risk-taker Paul will face the biggest challenge of his career when he takes on UFC legend and accomplished boxer Silva in an eight-round bout at a catchweight of 187 pounds. In undercard action, teenage sensation Ashton Sylve will put his knockout streak on the line against Braulio Rodriguez in an eight-round lightweight bout contested at 133 pounds. Chris Avila, a disciple of UFC superstar Nate Diaz, will square off against “Doctor Mike” Varshavski, a board-certified family physician and social media influencer, in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 185 pounds. 

The Hall vs. Bell press conference hosted by Helwani will be held on Thursday, October 13 (1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT) and streamed live via the SHOWTIME SPORTS YouTube channel. The Paul vs. Silva event is co-produced by SHOWTIME PPV and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) and promoted by Holden Boxing. The pay-per-view telecast is produced and distributed by SHOWTIME PPV. 

For more information visit www.SHO.com/sports, follow #PaulSilva, follow on Twitter via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostVpromotions, on Instagram via @JakePaul, @ShowtimeBoxing and @MostValuablePromotions or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ShowtimeBoxing.

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.