URIAH HALL VS. LE’VEON BELL VIRTUAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

GLENDALE, ARIZ. – October 13, 2022 – Elite UFC striker Uriah Hall and former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell sized each other up and placed their names squarely in the Jake Paul sweepstakes during a virtual press conference on Thursday to preview their professional boxing match on Saturday, October 29 as part of the event headlined by Paul vs. UFC legend Anderson Silva at Desert Diamond Arena (formerly Gila River Arena) in Glendale, Ariz., just outside Phoenix. Both Hall and Bell will make their pro boxing debuts in an event co-produced by Most Valuable Promotions and SHOWTIME PPV in a four-round cruiserweight bout. But they made it clear on Thursday they view their MMA vs. NFL matchup as a prelude to a mega-fight with Paul.

“That’s the only reason why I’m here, man,” the former UFC standout Hall said to combat sports journalist and press conference host Ariel Helwani. “To fight Jake Paul.”

“This is the bridge to get the Jake Paul fight,” said the former Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets running back.

During the media call, Hall and Bell also went back-and-forth over who the better athlete is, whether Bell bit off more than he could chew by facing such a decorated combat sports athlete, how Hall will cope without being able to rely on his kicks in the ring, how Bell said he would help former Steelers and Bucs teammate Antonio Brown prepare for a match with Paul, and more.

The Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva Most Valuable Promotions SHOWTIME PPV is available now for purchase in the United States at SHOWTIME.com/ppv and via the SHOWTIME^® app for a suggested retail price of $59.99 (SRP). The official promo for the event was inspired by the 1983 cult classic Scarface and was released today and is available to watch and share HERE.

Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased at ticketmaster.com.

Here is what Hall, Bell and Helwani had to say on Thursday:

URIAH HALL

“I love mixed martial arts and I love to compete. I’m a competitor. My coach called me about this and it piqued my interest. I’m just very competitive so I told him to give me some reasons to do it and he did. So that’s why I’m here. I’m the type of guy that has to be interested in something. If it’s fun and I see something that’s challenging, then I’ll do it.

“No offense but I had never heard of Le’Veon Bell till it was brought up to me. I barely watch my own sport. I didn’t know who he was, and I checked it out. Listen, at the end of the day he’s a stud at what he does and an athlete. What we’re both going out there to do is utilize that platform of a challenge. Yeah, we’re getting paid for it, but it’s a challenge. That he wants to step into that world, kudos to him. I don’t really know, but for me I’m just a competitor at heart.”

What is the reason for taking this fight?

“To fight Jake Paul [laughing]. The mind is not just focused on Jake Paul though. It’s exciting. We had some online exchanges a long time ago and I just wanted to show him what a real fight is.

“I’m here to represent myself. The world’s not going to like you. I have to look out for me at the end of the day. I’m a competitor first. From a business aspect all the other things can come with it, the limelight and all that, I don’t look at that stuff. I have blinders on and I’m just focused. I see him only. He’s in my vicinity and I have a task at hand and something to focus on. My mentality is I’d rather die [than lose] and I have that commitment to myself. I mean, you’d have to kill me. That’s my mentality.

“I don’t look at it like he’s biting off more than he can chew. I think he’s stepping out of his comfort zone.

“MMA is just grueling on the body. I know when I’m getting ready for an MMA fight you have to train seven different disciplines…And then there’s strength training. And then you’ve got to recover and there’s days you feel like [crap] and then you have to get up and do it again the next day. It’s such a toll on your body. The best way I can explain it is you know how a dog ages like seven years. That’s how it is for a fighter. You just age faster. It’s so much pressure you put on your body. But kudos to these guys for trying to do it.

“As an athlete I just know from a competitive standpoint you want to step out of your comfort zone. Look at Deron Williams. He’s a basketball player and a wrestler and he did it. He had fun with it.

“Whatever he brings, I have to adjust. In mixed martial arts if someone’s kicking the crap out of me, I’ve got to adjust and punch him or take him down, or vice versa. And that’s why I love mixed martial arts so much. There are just so many other attributes. I feel like boxing is so one-dimensional. You know what to expect. Granted, some people are faster with their hands. But I know he’s fast, and I’m fast. I know he hits hard, and I hit hard too. So I think it comes down to whoever goes out there and imposes their will.

“I’m happy for Anderson. He actually texted me when he found out I was on the card and he was like, ‘Man, I’m so happy I’m going to see you.’ My goal was to train with (him), and I never got the chance and I’ve always wanted to do that. We’ve agreed to do that after this fight. Anderson is just so unique. He’s so dynamic and so smooth in there. I feel like he’s more of a boxer. I watch him move, and I learn everything from this guy. Because he was my hero at one time, and he still is. Anderson was the one who gave me the advice that if you think you’re old, you’re old. It’s a mindset.”

LE’VEON BELL

“This is something that I’ve been wanting to do for the past two or three years. Obviously, I’ve been playing football but once the fight happened with Adrien Peterson – not long after I was on the show with Jake Paul, and he was talking about fighting another running back. And I was like, ‘No, I don’t want to fight another running back.’ So, he brought up Uriah Hall’s name and I thought that would be a great opponent for me, a guy who’s been spectacular in his profession. To step in the ring and move around with him, I knew it would be a great opportunity for me to test my skills and see how good I really am. I didn’t want to keep fighting the same level of guys. I wanted to keep upping the level and Uriah Hall is a great opponent.

“A lot of people feel that I’m biting off more than I can chew. But a lot of people don’t know how seriously I’m taking this because they don’t know exactly how hard I’ve been working. I think it’s going to be a great test and we’ll see what happens but I’m excited.

“Like he said, it’s going to be a great challenge for him [switching to boxing] because a lot of things he was great at, like kicking – he obviously can’t do in boxing. He’s still a great striker, using his hands so he’s taking on a challenge and he’s going to be ready, and I feel like the same with me. I know he’s going to be prepared and ready and he’s going to be in shape, so I have to up my level.

“I feel like I’m one of the better athletes walking around this planet. I’m known for football but even when I was playing football, I was also playing basketball. I’m one of the best basketball players you’ll probably ever meet but people wouldn’t know that because I’m not in the NBA but that’s just how I feel. Anything I pick up and do, I catch on pretty quick, other than golf. But everything else I’ve been the cream of the crop because I get addicted to it and lock it in quickly.

“I feel like I have to handle business with Uriah [to get the Jake Paul fight]. But at some point, yeah [I want that fight]. But mine’s not just limited to Jake Paul.

After hearing Hall admit he used his legs against a boxer inside the ring during sparring and if he’s concerned Hall will do the same October 29

“Yeah, for real. I’m like damn. I don’t know how to defend kicks. I haven’t practiced that. But I know he’s a professional and he will control himself. But if there’s something you’ve done your entire life, it still will be in his head to [do] it. It’s going to be a tough challenge for him. I know that. But I’m not trying to defend leg kicks and sweeps [laughing].

“I feel great physically and I feel like I can do [boxing] for years to come. I don’t know exactly how long but I know it’s not going to be a one-off or a two-off. I’ll be around for a minute, continually trying to get better and find new opponents and sharpen my skills.

“Hands down preparing for a fight [is tougher than preparing for a football game]. Football camps were hard and tough on my body, but that was before I knew about boxing camp and understanding how tough and intense the boxing workouts were. That’s every day. I would say boxing for sure [is tougher].

“This is a much tougher challenge [than Peterson] because Hall’s been fighting for 17 years. When I fought Adrian Peterson, there were times when I thought he was a little timid because maybe it was his first fight. But I don’t think Uriah will be that way. I feel Uriah will be more confident because he’s been facing fighters for 17 years. He’s been hit before, not just by punches but by kicks. I have a guy who’s actually trying to fight me back.

“That feeling was crazy [of knocking someone out]. I had games where I had 200 yards and three touchdowns but that feeling that I had of knocking someone out tops the cake over any initial feeling I ever had in football. Hands down…I’m done with the football thing because I can’t go back and forth with football and boxing. It’s so hard to try and box and to still do football. Boxing is the kind of thing you have to be all the way in.

“Jake from his first fight to this fight, he’s gotten better each fight. He’s continually gotten sharper. He’s taking the sport seriously. He’s not a guy who’s just talking and obviously Silva is going to be a great test for him. Silva has been doing this for years. He’s a legend so it’s going to be a great challenge for Jake. I’m looking forward to watching it.

“In 2016 or 2017, I started using boxing as an extra workout for football. Over that time, [I went] from doing it once a week to twice a week, to eventually years down the line sparring and becoming more invested in it, I started falling in love with it and as time went on — I started to realize I was good at it.

“Me and [former Steelers and Bucs teammate Antonio Brown] stay in touch all the time. He almost walked me out for my last fight. I would work out with AB [if he ever faced Paul]. For sure.”

ARIEL HELWANI

“I think Uriah Hall is a tremendous striker. I think he is appropriately the betting favorite going into this fight. I think it’s going to be interesting and I think a lot of people are curious to see when his kicks and his knees aren’t available, how’s it going to look? Clearly, Le’Veon has power. I think he’s an incredible athlete.

“I can’t wait for this. I think it’s going to be a really, really fun spectacle. It’s a card that has something for everyone.”

# # #

ABOUT PAUL VS. SILVA

International superstar and serial risk-taker Jake “The Problem Child” Paul will face the biggest challenge of his career when he takes on UFC legend and accomplished boxer Anderson “The Spider” Silva in an eight-round bout at a catchweight of 187 pounds on Saturday, October 29 in a Most Valuable Promotions event live on SHOWTIME PPV (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT) from Desert Diamond Arena, just outside of Phoenix, Ariz. 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. Top 118-pound contenders and former world title challengers Alexandro “El Peque” Santiago and Antonio “Carita” Nieves will meet again in a 10-round rematch of their exciting 2016 showdown. Elite UFC striker Uriah Hall and former NFL star running back Le’Veon Bell will make their pro debuts in a four-round cruiserweight bout contracted at 195 pounds. In addition, 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.

DEONTAY WILDER VS. ROBERT HELENIUS & CALEB PLANT VS. ANTHONY DIRRELL FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

BROOKLYN – October 13, 2022 – Boxing superstar and former longtime heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and top-rated Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference as the two power-punchers promised fireworks when they meet in a WBC Heavyweight Title Eliminator headlining a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The press conference also featured an intense verbal back and forth between former world champions and super middleweight rivals Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell, who square off in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event of the pay-per-view telecast beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

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.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday from Barclays Center:

DEONTAY WILDER

“We were sparring partners and we respect each other, but don’t you worry, the beast will come out on Saturday night. It’s going to be fireworks for sure.

“The second phase of my career is going to be for the people. When my statue was unveiled in my hometown, it meant a lot to me, because I saw all the people who united to celebrate me and my accomplishments.

“I have tremendous respect for Robert. We’ve known each other for years. The reason I agreed to take this fight is because he’s on a winning streak. He’s been looking great. When they said this would be a title eliminator, I was excited, because if I’m going to be here, why not compete for something worth fighting for?

“There’s an electrifying energy that this arena possesses. I’ve had some of my most exciting knockouts right here. When I got off the plane, the energy just felt amazing. It almost feels like a second home to me.

“I put on my best performances here at Barclays Center. I’m not looking for anything less than another great performance. There’s a lot on the line and I think that I have the right opponent to give the fans what they want to see.

“We both have the warrior mentality. When you fight with your heart, you’re willing to go out on your shield. That’s what everyone is going to see on Saturday.

“You can’t look past Robert Helenius. I put in over 700 rounds in training camp and it’s been tremendous ever since pre-camp. We had to slow down a little bit to make sure I didn’t overtrain. You can go so many years doing the same thing over and over, but it becomes boring. The way we did this training camp was really refreshing.

“Many people have said many things to me about wanting to fight, but when the time came, they went another way. I’ve asked around about Oleksandr Usyk and I’ve been told he’s a man of his word. Upon me being victorious, we’ll see what happens.

“This whole second phase of my career is all about having fun. I always tell people that I’m happy and at peace in my life. Where I am, the grass is green. I’m just looking forward to Saturday night.”

ROBERT HELENIUS

“I’ve dedicated all my life to this sport. So this means everything to me. I did all my work so that I could bring my best self to this fight. I’m ready.

“Of course I respect his power. We’ve worked on our footwork and jabs a lot and we’ve been at it the whole year.

“I like being the underdog. It gives me more strength and more power in training camp and when we eventually get into the ring.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe in myself. If I didn’t think that I could become the heavyweight world champion, I would have got an easier job.

“Sitting here, I don’t know what else to say. I feel like this is my time now and we’re going to give everyone a great show.

“Sparring is much different than a fight. We know that the punches are going to be for real this time. You’re going to see a smart Helenius who’s moving well in this fight.

“I don’t think about the layoffs that Deontay and I have. Sometimes I feel much better when I’ve had a lot of time off. What matters is your mentality, because if you are mentally prepared, that will make the difference.

“I’ve fought at Barclays Center before and the atmosphere is crazy. I feel like we’re going to have the same thing on Saturday night and I can’t wait.”

CALEB PLANT

“It’s been a minute since I’ve been in the ring, but after the Canelo Alvarez fight we got back to work and kept working on certain things. I’ve kept working ever since. Come Saturday night, I’m excited to show everyone what we’ve been working on.

“Leading up to this fight he’s had a lot to say about how much he doesn’t like me. But I’m not here to talk about emotions. I’m here to do a job.

“I have half the fights he has and our resumes are similar. So I’d ask, are you a bum? Because you said that all I fight are bums.

“He’s a former two-time world champion, so we’re prepared and we worked really hard for this moment. At the end of the day, I think he barks more than he bites.

“Becoming a two-time world champion would mean everything to me. I worked tirelessly my whole life to get to this point, but I have a lot more to give the fans and the sport of boxing.

“You don’t get to the world title fights without focusing on the fight in front of you. I have a fight on Saturday that I’m focused on and that’s the only thing on my mind.

“I’m looking to get my hand raised. Whatever way that it happens. It’s going to be fireworks. There’s going to be great action all night long. Everyone should tune in, because we’re going to turn up.

“I just feel like I’m going to put a whooping on him and he’ll run off into the sunset. I hope he’s fully prepared.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“Just don’t get on your bike Caleb. Tell me who he’s fought? He’s fought nobody. He better be ready for this.

“Being an underdog is just another way for me to make more money. That’s just people’s opinions at the end of the day, and I’m fine with it.

“I don’t play with kids. He’s a kid to me. I don’t care about his social media posts. That means nothing to me. At the end of the day, I’m going to get my hand raised.

“Sometimes I fight better when there’s emotions involved. We have different game plans for different people, because not everyone fights the same. We have a game plan with Caleb and we’re going to execute.

“SugarHill Steward is a great trainer and he’s been with me since I was a teenager. We’re really familiar with each other and that will help us.

“Caleb hasn’t shown me anything special. Period. In any fight. He’s a good boxer, but it’s nothing special. He better be ready for Saturday, because I am.

“He’s been trying to get my attention all camp. But I don’t care about him. There’s nothing he can do to me.

“Only way he retires me is if he runs around the ring until I’m old. He can’t hit. What can he do? Who has he whooped?

“We’re going in there and giving it our all. My plan is to go in there and whoop his ass.”

# # #

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.

QUOTES — JOSE ‘CHON’ ZEPEDA VS. REGIS ‘ROUGAROU’ PROGRAIS LOS ANGELES KICK-OFF PRESS CONFERENCE

Los Angeles, CA (October 12, 2022) A huge crowd of Los Angeles media attended the Kick-Off Press Conference in Downtown Los Angeles to formally announce ‘The Battle of the Best’, the WBC Super Lightweight World Championship between #1 Ranked Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda, (35-2, 27 KOs) and #2 Ranked Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis, (27-1, 23 KOs). They were joined by Zepeda’s trainer Rene Zepeda and Prograis’ manager Sam Katkovski. The press conference was moderated by the voice of Southern California sports, Beto Duran.

Presented by Marv Nation and produced by Legendz Entertainment, Zepeda vs. Prograisis set for Saturday, November 26 at ‘The War Grounds’, Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, CA and broadcast live on Pay-Per-View. Tickets to this sensational clash will go On-Sale This Friday, October 14 at 12:00 p.m. PT online at AXS.com.

Below are quotes from the fighters;

Jose ‘Chon’ Zepeda

“Both of us are in our prime. This is #1 vs. #2, the top two fighters in the division. We don’t get to see that very often nowadays in boxing and this shows it’s going to be a great fight. Both of us have a lot of knockouts, true punching power. I’m getting ready for hell because I know it’s going to be that type of fight. It’s a really exciting fight for the fans at the War Grounds and those watching on pay-per-view.”

“There’s not a lot of need for trash talk between us. We’ve both done our work in the ring and boxing fans know what type of fight to expect. I went through hell already with Ivan Baranchyk, Jose Ramirez and Jose Pedraza. Regis hits hard, he’s clever inside the ring and he’s a southpaw. It has all the ingredients for a great fight for the fans.”

“I wasn’t surprised at all that we got this fight. We both wanted it, we both want to become world champions. Both of us need this title, we’re 33 years old and in our prime. Whoever wins this title will have a life changing experience.”

“It’s been a long time since I’ve fought in Los Angeles and I’m looking forward to seeing a packed War Grounds on November 26 for another classic fight at this iconic venue.”

Regis ‘Rougarou’ Prograis

“I used to live in Los Angeles so I’m very comfortable here. I just can’t wait for this fight and to become a world champion. Zepeda’s a real good fighter and I already know what he’s coming with. This is a dream come true for me because I wanted to stay at 140 and become a two-time world champion. My last three fights were against ‘okay’ opposition but this is the fight to show that I’m elite. He’s a killer and I give him all the respect but I’m going to do my thing on November 26.”

“Los Angeles is one of my favorite cities in the world. To come here and fight at The War Grounds to become a two-time world champion is historic for me.”

“I’m not surprised at all this fight is happening. He wanted the fight, I wanted the fight. We both want to be champions. He fought for the belt and I thought he beat Ramirez.”

“We are two killers, I have a lot of power in both hands, he has a lot of power in both hands. And that’s what makes for an interesting fight, #1 vs. #2. No one knows who’s going to win, it’s a real 50/50 fight.”

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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.

Additional information on ‘The Battle of the Best’, including the media credential application process will be announced shortly.

QUOTES: BOXXER LEGACY: GRAND ARRIVALS

London, England – October 12, 2022 – Fight week for the biggest fight in the history of women’s boxing officially began in London, England today with a ‘Grand Arrivals’ event for the key fighters taking part in this Saturday’s BOXXER LEGACY: Shields vs Marshall event.

Headlining rivals Claressa ‘GWOAT’ Shields and Savannah ‘The Silent Assassin’ Marshall, who contest the undisputed world middleweight championship on Saturday night, were joined on the red carpet today at TOCA Social, London by co-headline fighters Mikaela Mayer and Alycia Baumgardner, along with Lauren Price, Kariss Artingstall and Caroline Dubois.

At the link above please find a range of photos from today’s event, free for editorial use with credit to Lawrence Lustig / BOXXER.

Here’s what the two headline fighters had to say today:

SAVANNAH ‘THE SILENT ASSASSIN’ MARSHALL

WBO World Middleweight Champion

“It’s every fighter’s dream to be headlining with world titles on the line. It’s the pinnacle of our sport. And this fight with Claressa feels like this was always meant to be. So I’m excited and can’t wait to step through those ropes on Saturday night

“In recent years we’ve seen huge strides in women’s sport – especially in those sports that normally are dominated by men. And in the same year the Lionesses win the Euros, I’m happy to be part of this historic night for women’s boxing.

“But the great thing about this event is that it isn’t special just because it’s an all-female show. This is a great boxing card full stop. Even the supporting fight between Mikaela and Alycia is a headline act in itself. People are taking notice of this because the quality speaks for itself. This isn’t a gimmick. The fighters on this card are here purely on merit.

“I do see it growing in popularity, yes. Think about how far women’s boxing has come along in the short period it’s been given support? With continued backing you can only imagine what it’ll reach in 10 years time. A quick look at MMA will show you how far women can go in the sport and demand respect alongside their male peers. I don’t see any reason why the same can’t be done in boxing.

CLARESSA ‘GWOAT’ SHIELDS

WBA, WBC, IBF World Middleweight Champion

“It feels great to top this historic card and I think I’ve earned that right. I think if I wasn’t as great as I am, the opportunity would not have presented itself for me – or for her.

“Even though she’s the home fighter and everyone here is talking about her, I am the one with all the accomplishments. I’ve won twelve world titles, she’s won one. I won two Olympic gold medals, she’s won none.

“It’s a huge night for women’s boxing and I think if we stay on the road we are on now, it will reach equality with men’s boxing in my lifetime.

“Saturday night I will come out victorious like I always do, I hope the fans have a great time and I hope every fight on the card is great. I hope we make the national news all over the world, whether the fight ends in the first round or the final round.”

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BOXXER LEGACY: Shields vs Marshall takes place this Saturday, October 15th at The O2 in London with long-time rivals Claressa Shields and Savannah Marshall headlining for the undisputed world middleweight championship.

It’s the most-anticipated women’s fight of all time and one of the UK’s biggest sporting events of the year, topping the first-ever all-female bill to take place in the UK.

WBO and IBF world champion Mikaela Mayer and WBC champion Alycia Baumgardner face off in a 130lb unification bout in the chief support bout and the card also features Olympians Lauren Price, Karriss Artingstall and Caroline Dubois.

All the action airs live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK & Ireland and on ESPN in the USA.

Angel Hernandez to Be Inducted in Hitz Boxing Ring of Honor This Saturday at The Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Illinois

Chicago, IL (October 12, 2022)–Angel Hernandez, who was one of the most successful and popular Chicago based fighters will be inducted in the Hitz Boxing Ring of Honor this Saturday night as part of a big night of action as part of 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.

Hernandez of Chicago finished his stellar career with a record of 30-11 with 17 knockouts. The “Tough-as-nails” Hernandez made 29 appearances in the Chicago area, with many being in the Rosemont area. Hernandez had defeated many quality fighters such as Leonard Townsend (35-1), Julio Cesar De La Cruz (14-2), Anthony Jones (44-10-2), former world champion Frankie Randall (55-9-1), former world title challengers JC Candelo (23-3-1) and Larry Marks (22-5-1), Victor Rosado (17-4-1), Louis Turner (11-0) and former world title challenger Antwun Echols.

Hernandez came up just short in challenging “Winky” Wright for the junior middleweight championship of the world.

“Angel was such a great fighter and he deserves this honor. Ironically it was his loss to Wilfredo Rivera that put him on the map. That fight proved that he belonged at a top level as Rivera had just lost to Oscar De La Hoya. He beat so many really good fighters, and we look forward to celebrating his career on Saturday,” said promoter Bobby Hitz,

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

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

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.

In Six-Round Bouts:

Dontae Pettigrew (7-0, 6 KOs) of Chicago takes on Terrell Jamal Woods (28-54-9, 20 KOs) in a heavyweight bout.

In Four-Round Bouts:

Matthew Hambric (1-0, 1 KO of Chicago fights Armando Reeves (3-9-2) of Jefferson City, Missouri in a cruiserweight fight.

Evan Jack (2-0, 1 KO) of Chicago fights Kechaune Jenkins (1-0, 1 KO) of Columbus, OH in a junior welterweight fight.

Juan Guerra Salas (2-0, 2 KOs) of Mexico battles pro debuting Adrian Mazon of Chicago in a welterweight contest.

Brandi Robinson of Chicago will make her pro debut against Neveah Martinez (0-1) of Victorville, California in a super bantamweight fiight.

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

DEONTAY WILDER VS. ROBERT HELENIUS MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

BROOKLYN – October 12, 2022 – Boxing superstar and former heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder and hard-hitting contender Robert “The Nordic Nightmare” Helenius officially kicked off fight week events Wednesday as they showed off their skills during a media workout before they headline a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The event also featured former world champions and super middleweight rivals Caleb “Sweethands” Plant and Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell, who meet in a WBC Super Middleweight Title Eliminator in the co-main event. Also on hand were unbeaten heavyweight Frank Sanchez and Puerto Rican Olympian Carlos Negron, who battle in a 10-round attraction, plus unbeaten contender Gary Antonio Russell and former world champion Emmanuel Rodriguez, who square off to open up the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Rounding out Wednesday’s lineup was exciting rising prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr., who will take on Limberth Ponce in a matchup that headlines PBC Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from world famous Gleason’s Gym in Brooklyn:

DEONTAY WILDER

“You can always expect nothing but the best from me. And I don’t get paid for overtime. I’ve been known for the knockouts and I’m going to end my career continuing to get those knockouts.

“Every fight makes you a better fighter. You always have to go back and change certain things. Me and Tyson Fury had three memorable fights, especially for the fans, and I’m looking to keep delivering that moving forward.

“There are a lot of things that I’ve been trying to perfect. What you see from me on Saturday night isn’t going to be anything new. We’ve just been adding to what we have. We’ve been going back to some fundamentals, working on our movement and combining all those things together.

“I feel good and that’s all that’s going to matter. The energy is going to be there in the arena. I’m looking forward to feeding off the crowd.

“It’s going to be fun. Robert is a great guy and we both have warrior’s heart. We’re both willing to go out on our shields. This is our first time getting in the ring when it really counts. It’s going to be electrifying to finally step in the ring with him in that scenario.

“I’m in the game to fight the best. That’s not going to stop. I want the champions and the top contenders. I want all challengers. You name them, I want them.

“I want my legacy to be that I was a great man, a motivator and someone who abided by his word. He gave everything he had in every fight. I want people to say that Deontay Wilder stood for something.

“All of my accomplishments have been set in stone with a statue in my hometown. Seeing all the people that came out to unite with me and my family, it meant a lot to me. It allowed me to understand that I’m very important to a lot of people all over the world.”

ROBERT HELENIUS

“I’m really happy to have this opportunity. I’ve been training in this sport for 25 years and I’ve had my ups and downs and now everything is connecting and I feel great.

“I don’t like to think that he’s lost anything since the three fights with Tyson Fury. He’s had a year since that last fight. Of course people can change after a long time, but I’m prepared to go 12 rounds with the best Deontay Wilder.

“I can’t give away too much, but we’ve seen what people do to disrupt Wilder. We have a plan and now we need to execute.

“When I was sparring with Deontay we were both preparing for our own fights, so I wasn’t really training for a guy like him. Of course I learned some tricks, but I’m not relying on that alone. It can only be an advantage though.

“He is powerful yes, but I don’t believe that I’m without power. The hardest punchers I’ve faced are Lamon Brewster and Samuel Peter, and I expect Wilder to be similar. The difference with Wilder is that he’s much faster.

“I didn’t feel my best against Gerald Washington and I shouldn’t have gone through with the fight. Because I knew that I wasn’t myself, it wasn’t hard for me to bounce back from that loss.”

CALEB PLANT

“I’m feeling good. The energy is great, weight is good and everything is on point. We had a great training camp. Everything has been smooth and couldn’t have been better.

“I always work hard, but Stephen Edwards definitely brings that hard work to the gym. When we get there, we know it’s no messing around. That’s how we like it. We stay at work until we’re finished. We’ve had seamless energy ever since we linked up. We had fun and we got a lot of work done.

“It’s going to be a show. It’s been a minute since I’ve been in the ring, but we never stopped working. We cleaned up some stuff from our last fight and kept what we had a lot of success with.

“Everyone knows what I bring to the ring. I bring creativity and excitement. I can fight a lot of different ways and everyone watching can expect to see me with my hand raised.

“I’m not thinking past this fight. I have to focus on the task in front of me. I’ll get to what’s next when the time is right. I just want to stay fully focused on Saturday, and winning that fight in spectacular fashion.

“Every fight is personal to me. That man standing across from me is standing in the way of me accomplishing my dreams.

“Dirrell has never had a successful title defense in all of his fights and he won’t have one in his entire career. Because after Saturday night, he’s retiring.”

ANTHONY DIRRELL

“I’ve proved myself many times. So I don’t need to prove myself to anybody. I showed what I needed to. I’ve come back from everything that I’ve ever had to come back from.

“You have to have different game plans for different fights. We’re going to stick to what we worked on and come out of the ring victorious.

“Everybody has their pros and cons. I’ll have to see what Caleb has when we get in there. This is going to be nothing new. A fight is a fight and every fight is different. You have to approach every fight differently than the last one.

“Caleb has fought two people. And everyone knows that and they know who those two people are. But you have to respect everyone who steps into that square and tries to fight.

“I’m not worried about the Canelo fight that he had. That’s the past now. We’re going to have to see what he brings. Styles make fights.

“Just know that I’m going to beat his ass on Saturday. I don’t respect him. It’s not that he’s not a hard worker, that’s irrelevant. We’re all fighters and we’re getting into that ring to entertain people. Outside of the ring, I don’t have to hang out with you.”

FRANK SANCHEZ

“He can say that he’s prepared for me and that Luis Ortiz has got him ready, but actually doing it is much more difficult. My style is to win and to knock him out.

“My prediction is that I’m going to win and move on and fight the top heavyweight in the division. I want to keep moving up the ladder.

“I feel that my technique and speed can beat any heavyweight out there. I’m just going to keep displaying my skills inside the ring.

“I’ve fought good fighters before. No matter what’s in front of me, I head into the ring with the mindset that I’m going to leave the ring with a victory.

“The main event is going to be a very good fight and I’d slightly favor Wilder. I would love to fight him next if we both win.”

CARLOS NEGRON

“I’m coming into this fight very confident. Five-straight wins will do that. Overall we’ve just had better training and we’re more prepared heading into this fight.

“This is a very important fight for me. We know that a win is going to do a lot for my confidence and my career. Moving into this fight I’m just very ready to get into the ring.

“If Frank is the next great heavyweight then so am I. Because I believe we have very similar attributes. Skill-wise, ability-wise and size-wise I feel like I should be right there as well.

“I’m a very proud Puerto Rican fighter and my dream to become world champion has pushed me in camp to run longer and train harder. I’m very confident and I have no excuses coming into this fight.

“I’ve been familiar with the Cuban-style of boxing in the amateurs and in the pros. I also train alongside Luis Ortiz and some other Cuban fighters, so I’ve worked against it a lot. I’m 100% ready for Frank Sanchez.”

GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL

“I’m versatile. Our father named our gym The Enigma Gym for a reason. I’m going to be an enigma in the ring on Saturday night.

“I feel good and I feel strong. I’ve gotten all the rounds in that I needed for this fight and I’m well prepared.

“Sometimes it’s still hard to deal with the passing of our father Gary Sr. You see all the pictures of him up in the boxing gym. I’m just glad that he molded me and the rest of my brothers. He molded us into men. It’s a bittersweet thing, because I’m definitely still coming to perform. My dad is the mad scientist behind everything that I’m going to display on Saturday.

“My feelings about this fight are the same as they were the first time. If anything, I’m looking to go in there and hurt him. This is the hurt business. After the fight, I’ll wish well and take my hat off to him as a fighter. But the mission doesn’t change.

“If anything I’m motivated even more now since the passing of my father. He instilled so many great things into us, up until the very moment of his passing. He would want me to be in this position right now and he wouldn’t want me to take my foot off the gas.

“All of my brothers have stepped up. We’re a dynasty and we’re a unit. We work together, because iron sharpens iron.

“We don’t overlook anybody. I don’t make any stage bigger than what it appears to be. I treat every fight as if it’s a championship fight.”

EMMANUEL RODRIGUEZ

“I’m really looking forward to Saturday night. We spent time training hard in the altitude and Mexico and we’re just eager to get back into the ring.

“In the first fight, we knew that we were going to win. Everyone knows what happened, but for this fight we’ve prepared much better. I’ve had great sparring that simulates Russell’s style, so with every single day that passes, I’m more and more confident that I’m going to win this fight.

“For me it’s an honor and privilege to have my first time fighting here in New York. I know this is home for a lot of Puerto Ricans and I know that I’m going to have a lot of people supporting me.

“We know that he’s got a good jab. It’s going to take about three rounds to adapt to the jab, then we’re going to take the strong hand away and there won’t be anything else he can do.

“Since my fight against Naoya Inoue I believe that I’m a much better fight.er I’ve faced better opposition and I’m a former world champion than Russell. I don’t take anything away from him, but I just believe that I’m the better fighter all around.

“We’re ready. All I can say, is that this fight won’t go the distance. You’ll have to tune in and catch the action on Saturday night.”

VITO MIELNICKI JR.

“This is another big opportunity for me. I’ve had a great training camp with ‘Chino’ Rivas and I’m ready to go. We’re coming to put on a show.

“I’ve had great sparring this training camp with a lot of top guys and I’m just getting better and better and learning more and more with each fight.

“I love fighting on these big cards and I’m excited to be headlining on FS1 for Deontay’s comeback fight. I’m going to keep improving and growing my name even more.

“This is my third fight with ‘Chino’ Rivas and we’ve had great sparring with Jeison Rosario, Keeshawn Williams and a lot of other quality guys. Whatever Limberth brings to the ring on Saturday night, we’ll be ready for it.

“I’m still young and I’m still growing, but I want to keep fighting better opposition. I know there’s a lot of big names that could become available and I’m looking forward to making those fights happen.”

Wilder – Helenius Live on PPV.com

This Saturday’s big Deontay Wilder – Robert Helenius card can be streamed live on PPV.com.

PPV.COM will be streaming the LIVE Deontay Wilder vs. Robert Helenius PPV event this Saturday, October 15, in the U.S. and Canada. PPV.COM is not a subscription service and is offering the event for $74.99, including the entire undercard which also features Caleb Plant vs. Anthony Dirrell. The show begins at 9 PM ET.

LOVE’S BROTHER WILLIAMS ADDED TO CLEVELAND CARD

Montana Love’s first headline hometown show will be a family affair as his older brother and Olympian Raynell Williams continues his return to boxing at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland on Saturday November 12 – with Khalil Coe and Nikoloz Sekhniashvili also added to the Ohio bill.

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM THE ROCKET MORTGAGE FIELDHOUSE WEBSITE

Williams (13-1 7 KOs) returned from a near five-year absence from the ring in September with a stoppage win in Cleveland in the final round of six, and the Team USA 2008 games man will face fellow Ohioan Ryizeemmion Ford (8-2 6 KOs) over the same distance.

“This is a dream come true for me,” said Williams. “Fighting at home, in Cleveland, on a card headlined by my brother – it doesn’t get much better than that.

“It felt great to finally step back into the ring last month, and I’m excited about getting right back in there, and working my way back into contention. I know Ford well; he’s an Ohio boy just like me. I respect him as a fighter, but he’s simply not on my level and on November 12 I plan to put on a show.”

Khalil Coe fights for the third time in 2022 and will do so over six rounds against the unbeaten Bradley Olmeda. Coe (3-0-1 2 KOs) is looking for win number three of the year having stopped Dylan O’Sullivan in Phoenix in February and followed that with a points win in his first six rounder against William Langston in New York in April.

The New Jersey talent now meets Puerto Rican Olmeda (5-0 3 KOs) who himself has two wins to his name in 2022 and fights for the third time in the States with plenty on the line in a battle of the undefeated Cruiserweights.

“I’m very excited for this fight,” said Coe. “These are the type of challenges I want at this stage of my career. I’ve had a great training camp and I’m ready to show that on November 12 against a very tough, determined, and undefeated opponent.”

“I want to thank Eddie Hearn and Matchroom for this great opportunity to fight on this show,” said Olmeda. “I am ready, prepared, and confident I will win this fight and show the world what Bradley ‘The Underdog’ Olmeda is made of.”

There is a fascinating Super-Welterweight clash on the card, as Nikoloz Sekhniashvili faces David Rodriguez. Sekhniashvili (7-1 5 KOs) returns to action in Cleveland after over a year out of the ring and will do so against the undefeated Rodriguez (6-0 2 KOs) over six rounds. Sekhniashvili turned pro in April 2018 after seven years on the Georgian national team and recorded seven wins with five inside the distance before tasting defeat in New York in August 2021.

It’s a huge opportunity for Rodriguez to make a name for himself in the biggest fight of a career that the 27 year old juggles with being a Health teacher at LeBron James’ I Promise School in Akron, Ohio.

“I am excited to be a part of such a great event in Cleveland,” said Sekhniashvili. “I am fighting an undefeated fighter and will show everyone that I am a World-class Super-Welterweight prospect. Thank you to Matchroom and my team for providing the opportunity.

“I’ve fought in nationals, in Cuba, and been in the ring with World champions; it’s my time,” said Rodriguez. “I’ve fought punchers my whole boxing career, I know exactly what to do, this moment is everything – I won’t lose.”

Love headlines his first hometown show against Australian Steve Spark on November 12, and the fights above join an already stacked undercard that sees Matchroom’s newest Stateside signing, Richardson Hitchins, fight for his first pro title when he takes on Yomar Alamo for the IBF North American Super-Lightweight title, Raymond Ford continues to catch the eye in his rise in the Featherweight division and defends his WBA Continental Americas title in Cleveland against Sakaria Lukas and Christian Tapia takes on Cleveland’s Thomas Mattice for the WBA Continental Americas Super-Featherweight title

“THE BRONZE BOMBER” MEETS THE NEW YORK GIANTS

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – October 12, 2022 – Former WBC Heavyweight World Champion and boxing superstar Deontay “The Bronze Bomber” Wilder visited the New York Giants facility on Wednesday, as he prepares to 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.

The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will see Wilder look to make his first step toward becoming a two-time heavyweight champion with an emphatic victory over the hard-hitting Helenius. Wilder’s first title reign saw him rack up an astounding 10 consecutive successful defenses and a staggering 91.1% knockout rate, combining to make him one of the biggest stars in the sport today.

On Wilder’s tour of the Giants facility, he met with General Manager Joe Schoen, Head Coach Brian Daboll, star running back Saquon Barkley and other members of the team, as the 4-1 Giants look to continue their surprising early-season success against the Baltimore Ravens this Sunday.

Here is what Wilder had to say on Wednesday:

DEONTAY WILDER

“I’m here in New York and it’s only right that I stop by this great facility and visit the New York Giants. A lot of people doubted them this season and they’re 4-1. It’s a big blessing. We’ve got one of my guys here, Xavier [McKinney] representing Alabama, so we know him very well. And Coach Daboll too so there are a lot of Alabama ties here.

“Saquon is a great player. A great guy with great spirit when you get to know him. I have a battle on Saturday and they have one on Sunday. I came here to check out the facility, see what their regimen is, how their practice goes and it’s been a great time.

“Growing up, I played football, basketball, baseball and if I had time for soccer, I would have played that as well. But once I got into boxing, it just took over my life. It’s a year-round business so you can’t take it easy. But I used to play everything from wide receiver to quarterback. That was one of my big things. I was always tall as a quarterback so I could see over everyone. At wide receiver, I’d run a hitch route and they would just throw it up in the air. Today made me reminisce a little bit.

“I plan to come in at my happy weight. Meaning, whatever I weigh, I’ll be happy. I came up here looking for sparring partners, looked at the players and told Coach Daboll, ‘Coach what are you feeding these guys? They’re so huge.’ These guys are so huge, I’d have to be the quarterback where it’s safer. I don’t want to get fed to these guys, they’ll eat me up alive.

“I’m not sure how long my fight against Robert Helenius will be. This second reign is going to be about having fun. I don’t have anything to prove, I’ve gained so much success, and everything I have done inside the ring has been set in stone with my statue in my hometown of Tuscaloosa. So, at this point in time, whatever comes my way is a blessing. But you already know I don’t get paid for overtime so we’re going for the knockout.”

**PHOTO CAPTION

Former heavyweight champion Deontay “Bronze Bomber” Wilder visited NY Giants training camp today, meeting coach Brian Daboll, several of the Giants players and exchanging a glove for a jersey with Giants running back Saquon Barkley. Wilder fights Robert Helenius this Saturday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn and live on FOX Sports PBC PPV.

**GROUP SHOT IDENTIFICATION

Standing (L-R): Adoree’ Jackson, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Deontay Wilder, Saquon Barkley, Xavier McKinney, Leonard Williams, Dexter Lawrence

Sitting (L-R): Darnay Holmes, Nick McCloud

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ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

PBC PRELIMS TO AIR THREE-FIGHT TELECAST LIVE ON FS1 & FOX DEPORTES THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 BEGINNING AT 7 P.M. ET/4 P.M. PT

BROOKLYN – October 12, 2022 – The stacked three-fight PBC Prelims telecast headlined by exciting rising prospect Vito Mielnicki Jr. facing Limberth Ponce in an 8/10-round super welterweight showdown will air live on FS1 and FOX Deportes this Saturday, October 15 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The telecast begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and will also feature 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.

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.

# # #

ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

UFC® RETURNS TO ORLANDO WITH EXCITING WELTERWEIGHT BOUT BETWEEN (#7) STEPHEN THOMPSON AND KEVIN HOLLAND

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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REGIS PROGRAIS MAKES WBC TITLE VOW AS ZEPEDA FIGHT CONFIRMED

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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Team Coyle Reflects on October 8 Fight Cancellation

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.”

GERRY COONEY AND RANDY GORDON TO CALL HEATHER HARDY’S RING RETURN OCTOBER 13 AT NEW YORK CITY’S SONY HALL

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.

QUOTES FROM GILBERTO “ZURDO” RAMIREZ LOS ANGELES MEDIA WORKOUT

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.”

The “O” must go for either Steve Sumpter or Edet Mkpanam

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

GEORGE ACOSTA vs. JOSE ANGULO HEADLINES OCTOBER 21ST THOMPSON SHOW

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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RISING PROSPECT VITO MIELNICKI JR. BATTLES LIMBERTH PONCE IN ACTION TOPPING PBC PRELIMS ON FS2 & FOX DEPORTES THIS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 15 AT BARCLAYS CENTER IN BROOKLYN

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.

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).

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ABOUT WILDER VS. HELENIUS

OLYMPIC CHAMP AND BRITISH TITLE ELIMINATOR ADDED TO SHEFFIELD SHOW

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.

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Elijah Pierce Takes on Daron Williams for the WBC Silver Super Bantamweight Title on Saturday, October 15th at The Hall at Live! Inside Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland

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.

Quinton Sumpter preparing for breakout fight against unbeaten Jeremiah Milton on Oct. 29th Jake Paul-Anderson Silva PPV card

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

Hitz Boxing Returns to The Parkway Bank Sports Complex on Saturday, October 15th

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.

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

JOSE ‘CHON’ ZEPEDA VS. REGIS ‘ROUGAROU’ PROGRAIS WBC SUPER LIGHTWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26 – DIGNITY HEALTH SPORTS PARK LIVE ON PAY-PER-VIEW

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 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.

Dawejko Decisions Woods in Bensalem, PA

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

Andreas Katzourakis Remains Undefeated As He Stops Krael in 6!

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.

CAN “Monster” XU LOSES DECISION TO BRANDON “Leoncito” BENITEZ; CESAR “Rainman” FRANCIS KO’S FRANCISCO “Roca” ARMENTA

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

SEBASTIAN FUNDORA VS. CARLOS OCAMPO FINAL WEIGHTS AND COMMISSION OFFICIALS FOR SATURDAY’S SHOWTIME® TRIPLEHEADER

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.

UPDATED SHOBOX: THE NEW GENERATION® CARD FEATURES EXPLOSIVE PROSPECT ISAIAH STEEN FACING BIG-PUNCHING SENA AGBEKO FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21 LIVE ON SHOWTIME®

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.

# # #

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.

CAN XU’S RING RETURN IS FRIDAY & IT HAS GENERATED OVER 250,000 DOWNLOADS OF THE PROBOX TV APP – THIS WEEK ALONE – IN CHINA

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.

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

CAN “Monster” XU BATTLES BRANDON “Leoncito” BENITEZ & CESAR “Rainman” FRANCIS & FRANCISCO “Roca” ARMENTA FIGHT FOR WBO NABO JUNIOR WELTERWEIGHT TITLE

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

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