DIBELLA ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS “BROADWAY BOXING AT THE POPE”
Brooklyn, NY (September 27, 2019) DiBella Entertainment’s acclaimed Broadway Boxing series returns to Brooklyn, NY, on Thursday, October 24, at the Generoso Pope Athletic Complex on the campus of St. Francis College. The 110th edition of the long-running Broadway Boxing series will be live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Broadway Boxing is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.
Headlining the event is the Broadway Boxing return of undefeated junior welterweight prospect “Marvelous” Mykquan Williams (15-0, 7 KOs), of East Hartford, CT, who will defend his WBC USNBC title against Tre’Sean Wiggins (11-4-2, 6 KOs), of Johnstown, PA, in a scheduled 10-rounder.
Tickets for the event, presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance, are priced at $160, $110, $80 and $50 and available here or by calling 212-947-2577. The Generoso Pope Athletic Complex is located at 180 Remsen Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201. Doors on the night of the event will open at 6:30 p.m. with the first bell at 7:30 p.m.
“I’m very excited to bring Mykquan Williams back to New York on Thursday, October 24, and to host this card at St. Francis College, in Brooklyn, NY, for ‘Broadway Boxing at the Pope’ streamed live on UFC Fight Pass,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Mykey scored a sensational knockout in his New York debut last year and his next opponent, dangerous veteran Tre’Sean Wiggins, will be his toughest test yet. A portion of each ticket sold will go toward the college’s Robert J. McGuire Scholarship, aimed at providing deserving students with the tools necessary to build successful careers in business.
“St. Francis College is also the home of the Arthur Curry Scholarship, named in memory of my dear friend and former HBO colleague. I’ve always noted that boxers are generally not privileged young men and women and I support St. Francis College in their mission to encourage and educate first generation college students.”
“I can’t wait to fight in New York again,” stated Williams. “Boxing fans there are a special breed and not easy to impress, but the atmosphere is second to none. I know Wiggins is a very solid fighter, my toughest fight so far, but I’m looking forward to putting on a great show.”
A portion of the proceeds from “Broadway Boxing at the Pope” shall go toward the Robert J. McGuire Scholarship, which provides tuition assistance to worthy SFU students.
Said Robert J. McGuire, Benefactor and Namesake of the scholarship, “I am privileged to be a part of this wonderful effort to provide scholarship assistance to deserving students at St. Francis College. There is no more powerful combination than a great educational institution, a wonderful group of donors led by Fred and Judy Wilpon and an outstanding group of young scholars for whom the future is bright.”
Guided by legendary manager Jackie Kallen, Williams returns to the ring following a 10-round unanimous decision victory against Rickey Edwards on May 17, at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT. In his last New York appearance on February 7, 2018, Williams stunned the packed house at B.B. King Blues Club and Grill with a first-round knockout of Preston Wilson.
Fighting in Philadelphia to kick off 2019, the 29-year-old southpaw Wiggins won an eight-round unanimous decision versus hometown favorite Samuel Teah on February 23, to capture the Pennsylvania State super lightweight title. Following that up on April 26, also in Philadelphia, Wiggins battled to a hotly contested eight-round draw with popular local prospect Branden Pizarro.
Co-featured on “Broadway Boxing at the Pope”, Joseph “Mack” Williams Jr. (13-0, 8 KOs), of Far Rockaway, NY, will be making his debut in the super middleweight division. He steps back into the ring on October 24 following a six-round unanimous decision versus Jose Mario Flores on April 10, in New York City. Williams was a decorated amateur, winning the 2012 National Golden Gloves, competing at the 2012 Olympic box-offs, and serving as an alternate at the London Olympics for the United States. Williams was also a three-time New York Golden Gloves champion in addition to competing in the 2011 Amateur World Championships.
Heavyweight George Arias (14-0, 7 KOs), of The Bronx, NY, will engage in a scheduled eight-rounder in his third fight of 2019. The undefeated 27-year-old has gone the eight-round distance twice this year in dominant performances against Robert Simms on March 2 and Keith Barr on May 17. Born in San Francisco de Macoris, Dominican Republic, Arias moved to New York City in 1996, at the age of four. After graduating from high school, he learned to box at Morris Park Boxing Gym near his home. Arias won the New York Golden Gloves tournament in 2014 then turned professional that October. He is trained and managed by Leon Washington Jr.
Fighting in an eight-round bout, Jose Roman (9-0, 4 KOs), a welterweight prospect from Bayamon, Puerto Rico, will return to the Big Apple for the first time since his New York debut on June 21, 2018. On that date, Roman earned a unanimous points victory against Marcus Beckford. He has since added three more wins to his ledger, all at home in Puerto Rico. In his last bout, on July 13, Roman defeated 9-1 Damian Sosa via six-round unanimous decision. Roman turned pro in September 2016 and was a three-time member of the Puerto Rican National Boxing team as an amateur.
Haitian-American Melissa St. Vil (11-4-4, 1 KO), from Brooklyn NY, will compete in a six-rounder at lightweight, determined to rebound from a hard-fought loss in a world title challenge to then-WBC lightweight titlist Delfine Persoon in March. St. Vil debuted in 2007 and quickly showed promise, defeating Jennifer Han, who currently holds the IBF featherweight title, in her third pro bout. She has been a road warrior for her entire career, always willing to travel to her opponent’s backyard, while fighting abroad in New Zealand, China, Haiti and Finland. It was in Auckland, New Zealand, where St. Vil captured the WBC Silver Female Super Featherweight Title in April 2016, defeating Baby Nansen, then traveling to Chengdu, China, to defend that belt against Katy Wilson Castillo in July. In April 2018, St. Vil battled then-unbeaten WBC Female Super Featherweight champion Eva Wahlstrom, losing a close, majority decision in her adversary’s home turf of Finland. Five months later, she made her hometown debut in Brooklyn, handing unbeaten prospect Mayra Hernandez her first loss.
Former amateur standout Jude “King Zar” Franklin (9-0-1, 8 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY, looks to return to the win column following the only blemish of his three years as a professional; a six-round majority draw against Aleem Jumakhonov on March 8, in Queens, NY. The 24-year-old Franklin, winner of his three previous bouts by knockout, will compete in a six-round featherweight bout. Franklin was born in the US, but spent much of his youth in Trinidad and Tobago before moving back to the States permanently at age 13, settling in the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn. Shortly thereafter, Franklin’s mother took him to Gleason’s Gym where he was introduced to trainer Elmo Serrano. They’ve been working together ever since and Franklin accumulated an impressive 60-11 record as an amateur. Before turning pro in February 2016, Franklin won gold medals at the NY Metros Tournament, twice at the Bergen County Tournament, Battle of the Tri-State Tournament and at the Trinidad and Tobago National Championships, as well as a silver medal at the 2014 Junior Olympics.
Popular junior featherweight Khalid Twaiti (5-0, 3 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY, will see action in his first scheduled six-round bout. The 23-year-old Twaiti began 2019 with a third-round knockout of Jeno Tonte on April 10, in New York City. Trained by Don Saxby out of Gleason’s Gym, Twaiti turned pro in February 2017 after compiling a 74-15 amateur record.
Additional information for “Broadway Boxing at the Pope”, including a full slate of televised bouts, will be announced shortly.
DuBois stops Tetteh in 1
Top Heavyweight prospect Daniel DuBois was dominant in stopping previously undefeated Ebenezer Tetteh in round one of a scheduled 10-round heavyweight bout at Royal Albert Hall in London.
DuBois scored two hard knockdowns with the referee stopping the bout when Tetteh got to his feet after the 2nd time he was on the canvas at 2:10.
DuBois is 13-0 with 12 knockouts. Tetteh is 19-1.
Archie Sharp scored a vicious knockout over Declan Geraghty in round four of their scheduled ten round super featherweight bout.
Sharp landed a flush left hand to the head that sent Geraghty plummeting to the canvas with the back of his head hitting the deck at 2:14.
Sharp is now 17-0 with nine knockouts. Gerghty is 19-5.
Nicola Adams retained the WBO Flyweight title as she battled to a split draw with Maria Salinas.
Adams took a card 97-93; Salinas won a card 96-94, and a 3rd card was even at 95-95.
Adams is 5-0-1. Salinas is 21-7-4.
Denzel Bentley remained perfect by stopping Kelcie Ball in the 1st round of their scheduled six-round middleweight bout.
Bentley bludgeoned Ball for 72 seconds before the bout was mercifully waved off.
Bentley is 11-0 with nine knockouts. Ball is 10-2.
Dennis McCann remained undefeated by stopping Georgi Georgiev in round tao of the scheduled six-round bantamweight bout.
McCann dropped Georgiev twice in round one, and once in round two before Georgiev was stopped on his feet .
McCann is 4-0 wth three knockouts. Georgiev is 8-16-1.
Willy Hutchinson remained undefeated with a 2nd round stoppage over Boris Zankov in a light heavyweight bout.
The time was 2:15 for Hutchinson who is now 10-0 with seven knockouts. Zankov is 11-27-1.
Sam Noakes made a successful pro debut with a stoppage of Chris Adaway after round three of a scheduled four-round welterweight bout.
Noakes dominated the action as he landed hard shots on the ropes throughout the contest. round three, Noakes was bleeding from his left ear.
Noakes is 1-0 with one knockout. Adaway is 9-60-4.
FONSECA COACH ROSENDO ALVAREZ: ‘I’M CONSIDERED THE SECOND BEST BOXER IN THE HISTORY OF NICARAGUA, BEHIND ONLY ALEXIS ARGUELLO!’
| Bolton, UK (27 September 2019)Fight fans attending Friday’s salivating super-featherweight shootout between Crayford’s classy Alex Dilmaghani and Nicaragua’s hard-hitting Francisco Fonseca at the Bolton White’s Hotel will be in the presence of greatness.
Heading the lethal Latino’s corner will be ex-two weight WBA World Champion Rosendo Alvarez, one of the toughest most tenacious atoms to ever lace up. |
LIVE VIDEO: Spence vs Porter – Weigh In
Porter will need more than a microphone to beat a bigger Spence

By Norm Frauenheim-
Shawn Porter is good with a microphone. He uses it to analyze. He uses it to comment. Predict and argue, too. He also uses it to deliver a few opening salvos in the opening rounds of the fight before the fight. Psychology always precedes the punches, and that’s where Porter appears to have gained a slight edge over the favored Errol Spence in their welterweight unification fight Saturday night at Los Angeles’ Center.
Porter, a Fox studio analyst when he isn’t in the gym, has spun all the rhetorical angles at Spence, who delivers more ounches from angles than one liners.
It’s been entertaining. It’s also been something of a diversion. It’s hard to tell if any of the talk has had any impact on Spence. He’s tough to read. Tougher to beat. Just ask Mikey Garcia, who came up in weight and appeared to be winning all of the news conference and media appearances. At opening bell in a ring at about the 50 yard line on the Dallas Cowboys home field at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Tex., last March, however, Garcia never had a chance in losing a one-sided decision. Porter, of course, has an explanation for that. He has said repeatedly that Garcia was a lightweight making a futile jump to welterweight.
“Truth is,” Porter said in repeated play on Spence’s nickname, “is that I’m a real 147-pounder.”
But, truth is, Porter rarely mentions a common foe who sums up the difference between the two: Kell Brook. Porter (30-2-1, 17 KOs) lost to Brook. Spence (25-0, 21 KOs) beat him.
Spence knocked him out in in 2017, scoring an 11th-round stoppage in an eye-opening upset in Sheffield, Brook’s hometown in the UK. Brook was coming off a loss, a fifth-round stoppage, to Gennadiy Golovkin at middleweight at a time when GGG was in his prime. The two-division jump up the scale was too much for Brook. He returned to his natural weight, which he had dominated. But he had no answer for Spence.
About three years earlier in 2014, Porter, a heavy favorite, lost a majority decision to Brook in Carson, Calif. The victory over Porter did for Brook what the victory over Brook did for Spence. Each went from interesting to the most feared welterweights of their day. In terms measured by physical dimensions, Porter will see and then encounter a fighter built a lot like Brook Saturday on Fox PPV. At 5- foot 9, Brook was a big welterweight. At 5-10, Spence is even bigger. Spence also has three more inches in his reach than Brook, 72 to 69.
Truth is, all of those numbers add up to tougher task for Porter, who is listed at 5-7 with a 69 1/2-inch reach. Porter’s argument is that Spence has never had to face the kind of adversity Spence has. Porter has had to fight his way out of trouble. Spence never has. But there’s a reason for that, one as simple of that tale on the tape and a common foe, Brook.
Prediction: Spence wins a unanimous decision.
SPENCE VS. PORTER PAY-PER-VIEW UNDERCARD & FS1 PRELIMS FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES
LOS ANGELES (September 26, 2019) – Fighters competing in FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View and Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes action went face-to-face Thursday at a final press conference before they compete in action this Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
The pay-per-view begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and is headlined by the highly-anticipated welterweight title unification between IBF Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBC Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter. Facing off Thursday and entering the ring in pay-per-view action were Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov, who compete for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight Title, and all-action veteran contenders Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and John Molina Jr., who meet in a welterweight attraction.
Thursday’s press conference also featured former three-time world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and Jerry Thomas, who square-off in a welterweight fight, and top prospect Joey Spencer and unbeaten Travis Gambardella, who go toe-to-toe in a super welterweight bout, all part of FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Wilshire Grand Ballroom II at the Intercontinental Hotel:
MARIO BARRIOS
“I appreciate everyone who made this fight happen. This is the biggest opportunity of my career and I’m excited. I had a great training camp and I’m prepared to put on a show for everyone watching.
“Winning this fight would mean everything to me. This has been a long road and I’ve been very patient. My opportunity is finally here and I’m not letting it slip by.
“His team pas put Akhemdov on the fast track to a world title, but it’s going to end up being their biggest mistake.
“I feel great at 140-pounds. This is the strongest I’ve felt in my career, which is why I have eight straight stoppages. I’m going in there with bad intentions for Saturday.
“I see myself right there with the champions at 140-pounds. I’m going to put them all on notice and the whole boxing world will have to take notice as well.
“The opportunity is in front of me right now. All I have to do is go out there Saturday night to take advantage.
“I have the ability to box or bang on the inside. I have speed, power and the size for this weight to be a problem. I’ve been ready for any of the top fighters.
“It’s been a long time since San Antonio had a world champion and having this chance to be the first in a while, makes it that much better. I promised my city a title when I turned pro, and it’s here now. No way I’m going home without that title.”
BATYR AKHMEDOV
“I’m not here to talk too much. I’m going to talk in the ring on Saturday night and have my hand raised.
“This was a long road for me. Since my first day in boxing, I wanted to fight for the title. Now I’m one step away. I believe in myself and I believe that on Saturday I’m going to bring the belt home.
“I don’t know much about Barrios and I haven’t watched his fights. My team has studied him and will come up with a great game plan. My opponent will only fight the style that I allow him to fight.
“I have been doubted my whole career. People have always said that I was moving too fast in the pros. Now we’re on the eighth fight and I’ll prove everyone wrong again.
“Being in the desert in Southern California for training is great for me. The sparring is great and combined with the coaching from Joel and Antonio Diaz, it’s a perfect complete package.”
JOSESITO LOPEZ
“I’m really excited to be here. This is a great event. I can’t wait for this fight. Make sure you tune in early because this fight is going to be all action. I’m prepared for everything that’s going to happen on Saturday.
“I’m really pumped up to get it on Saturday. Right now I’m just laid back and relaxing. All the hard work is done. Weigh-in next then we’re ready to head into Saturday.
“I’ve been known for my left hook but I think I’ve made a lot of improvements in how I throw my right hand. It’s going to be a lethal combo.
“It’s going to be action and violence on Saturday night. I’m excited for it. I’m in this sport to be in marquee fights like this. This is going to be a fight everyone remembers.
“STAPLES Center is a place where I really got the opportunity to make a name for myself. Ever since then, I’ve been putting it all on the line, time and time again. By having a never give up attitude, anything is possible.”
JOHN MOLINA JR.
“I believe Lopez and myself are going to set the bar really high on fight night. It’s an all action fight. As a fan of the sport, I’d love to sit back and watch. We’re prepared and ready to go give everyone a great show.
“This fight has been a long time coming. We came up in this sport around the same time and I always thought he would be a great challenge. If you want to look for someone who has a resume close to mine, it would be Josesito.
“I’m excited because this is a challenge. I know this is no easy fight. It’s going to be spontaneous combustion. It’s instant fight, just add water.
“It’s going to be all action. The butterflies are starting to kick in and that means I’m ready to go now. The hard work is done, the weight is good, and we’re ready to go to work.
“We sparred back in the day but the only thing I’ll say is, that if that session is what you’ll see on Saturday, you’re going to really enjoy it.”
ROBERT GUERRERO
“This is a huge event to be on. I’m blessed to be in this position. I’m ready to go and I’m in great shape. I can’t wait to go out there and make it happen.
“I just love this sport. When you’re a junkyard dog that’s what you are. You want to go out and fight. I’ve been feeling great and I can’t wait to go make it happen.
“I’ve had a great camp in Las Vegas. In past years, I wasn’t even having a strong training camp like this. When you’re at this top level, you can’t leave any stone unturned, and I was leaving them unturned. Now, it’s time to take care of business on Saturday.
“I want to jump right back into these big fights. There’s a stacked welterweight division and it continues on Saturday night. This fight puts me right back in line.”
JERRY THOMAS
“I’m grateful to be here with an opportunity to fight Guerrero and show everyone what I’ve got. I’m expected to lose, but I’m not going to. I’m here to win and I expect to win.
“It’s a little surreal to be in a fight against Roert Guerrero. He’s a warrior, so this is going to be a great fight. But I think his career is coming to an end and I have an opportunity to make that happen.
“I really didn’t think my career would ever be here, but I’ve been ready for this forever. Now is my opportunity to put on a show, and it’s going to be a good one.”
JOEY SPENCER
“It’s an honor to be a part of an event like this. I can’t wait to go out there and perform my best. My opponent is coming to fight and I’m excited to show everyone my skills.
“People have expectations from me having this exposure at a young age, but I like it. It’s going to prepare me for the pressure of future fights better than others might be. I’m happy with the way I’m progressing.
“In a perfect world, I’ll be a top contender by this time next year. Hopefully, I’ll be talked about with the other champions. That’s the dream and that’s what I’m working for.”
TRAVIS GAMBARDELLA
“I can’t express how excited I am to be here. This is the biggest stage I’ve competed on and I’m very thankful for the opportunity.
“This is a dream come true. I got this fight because of what I’ve done in my career so far. This is the biggest moment of my life. Everything I’ve worked for the last 15 years comes into this.
“I’ve been through every bit of adversity that you could fathom to get to this moment. It’s a blessing and it’s been a long time coming.”
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ABOUT SPENCE VS. PORTER
Spence vs. Porter pits unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. against WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter in a 147-pound title unification that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
The pay-per-view event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell facing unbeaten former champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez in the co-main event, unbeaten contenders Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov battling for the WBA Super Lightweight title, and rugged veteran Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and brawler John Molina Jr. competing in a 10-round welterweight fight.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand www.foxdeportes.com, 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.
NIGEL BENN RETURNS TO THE RING FOR CLOSURE
It’s official, former WBC & WBO World Champion Nigel Benn will return to the ring one last time for CLOSURE.
The event will be held on the 23rd November 2019 at Resorts World Arena, located in the National Exhibition Centre, Perimeter Rd, Birmingham, England.
The event will be broadcast globally upon the Epicentre.TV broadcast platform on Nigel’s own channel: WWW.Epicentre.TV/Nigel-Benn
So why is he returning to the ring?
“This one is for me and has been many years in the making. My return to the ring is an itch I need to scratch. I feel fitter, stronger and more focused than at any time in my career. Age is nothing but a number, I still have good movement, quick hands and a good whack. I have been training for five years ahead of this event, the last two years intensively and as an elite athlete ahead of the fight. It is eight weeks until I return to the ring, and I am only a couple of Kilograms off weight. I feel strong and looking forward to stepping in the ring for the last time in November. Looking back at my career I feel I cheated myself. Even though I accomplished so much, I was walking on the dark side; cheating, taking recreational drugs at parties and smoking weed. Starting at eight years old, I smoked cigarettes throughout my entire career! Towards the end of my career my life was out of control. When I hit my lowest point, I attempted to take my own life. By reconnecting with my faith, I have made the changes needed and now live a blessed life in Australia with my beautiful wife Carolyne and three of my eight wonderful kids. I want my return to the ring to demonstrate to anyone who is struggling that no matter how low you feel and no matter how bad things get there is always hope, there are people that can help you and you can always make the change to be a better version of yourself.” Nigel Benn
Nigel will face former WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Sakio Bika who is 15 years Nigel’s Junior. Sakio Bika is one of the toughest boxers of the last two decades. In his 20 year career, Sakio has never been stopped and has taken undefeated boxing superstars Joe Calzaghe and Andre Ward the distance giving them the hardest night of their lives.
So why Sakio Bika?
“I respect Sakio immensely, he is a true warrior and did not want to take an easy option. He has shared the ring with some of the great world champions of recent years. He will come to fight and will not take a backward step. It will be a war” Nigel Benn
Ticket and Broadcast Information can be found at the following event destination page – WWW.Epicentre.TV/Nigel-Benn
WEIGHTS AND RUNNING ORDER: DUBOIS vs TETTEH
Queensberry Promotions are proud to present Daniel ‘Dynamite’ Dubois vs Ebenezer Tetteh, for the vacant Commonwealth Heavyweight Title, live from the historic Royal Albert Hall. The show will air live on BT Sport.
Daniel Dubois is the most exciting heavyweight prospect in world boxing and is a further example of how Queensberry Promotions is the premier destination for exciting, homegrown British talent.
RUNNING ORDER – ROYAL ALBERT HALL
Fight # 1 – 18:30 hrs
4 X 3 Minute Rounds International Lightweight Contest
MOHAMMAD BILAL ALI 9st 10lb 4oz
V
ALEKSANDRS BIRKENBERGS 9st 7lb 2oz
Fight # 2
6 X 3 Minute Rounds Heavyweight Contest
JONATHAN PALATA 16st 4lb 4oz
V
CHRIS HEALY 19st 5lb 2oz
Fight # 3
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Lightweight Contest
EITHAN JAMES
V
FONZ ALEXANDER
Fight # 4
8 X 3 Minute Rounds Middleweight Contest
DENZEL BENTLEY 11st 7lb 6oz
V
KELCIE BALL 11st 7lb 12oz
Fight # 5
8 X 3 Minute Rounds International Super-Middleweight Contest
WILLY HUTCHINSON 12st 9lb 13oz
V
BORISLAV ZANKOV 12st 7lb 10oz
Fight # 6
6 X 3 Minute Rounds International Bantamweight Contest
DENNIS McCANN 8st 8lb 4oz
V
GEORGI GEORGIEV 8st 6lb 4oz
Fight # 7
THE WBO WORLD FLYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
10 X 2 Minute Rounds
NICOLA ADAMS OBE 7st 13lb 14oz
V
MARIA SALINAS 7st 12lbs 4oz
Fight # 8
THE WBO EUROPEAN SUPER-FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
10 X 3 Minute Rounds @ 130 lbs
ARCHIE SHARP 9st 3lb 5oz
V
DECLAN GERAGHTY 9st 3lb 5oz
Fight # 9
THE VACANT COMMONWEALTH AND WBO INTERNATIONAL HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
12 X 3 Minute Rounds
DANIEL DUBOIS 17st 2lb 6oz
V
EBENEZER TETTEH 15st 7lb 4oz
——-
Fight # 10 – Floater # 1
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Lightweight Contest
SAM NOAKES 9st 11lb 14oz
V
CHRIS ADAWAY 9st 11lb 6oz
Fight # 11 – Floater # 2
4 X 3 Minute Rounds Super-Middleweight Contest
LEWIS EDMONDSON
V
Gianni Antoh
—————————————–
Hot on the heels of a successful show at the York Hall on the 14th September, Queensberry Promotions further burnish their credentials as the premier destination for exciting, homegrown British talent on September 27th as Daniel Dubois takes aim at another accolade.
‘Dynamite’ headlines the Royal Albert Hall when he meets Ghana’s Ebenezer Tetteh for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight crown and WBO flyweight champion Nicola Adams defends her title for the first time against experienced Mexican Maria Salinas, live on BT Sport.
The card will also feature WBO European super-featherweight champion Archie Sharp who makes his second title defence against Dublin’s Declan Geraghty.
Middleweight banger Denzel Bentley, heavyweight Jonathan Palata, lightweight Mohammad Bilal Ali and precocious bantamweight talent Dennis McCann are also in action.
Exciting prospects Lewis Edmondson, Eithan James and Sam Noakes all make their professional debuts.
BIVOL DEFENDS WORLD TITLE AGAINST CASTILLO IN CHICAGO

Dmitry Bivol will defend his WBA World Light-Heavyweight title against Lenin Castillo at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago on Saturday October 12, live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM $40 HERE Bivol (16-0 11 KOs) defends the strap for the sixth time in the Windy City, returning to the ring following a successful defense of the belt in upstate New York in March where the Russian saw off the spirited challenge of Joe Smith Jr.
The 28 year old Bivol harbors ambitions to unify the division but will need to be at his best to stave off Dominican challenger Castillo (20-1 15 KOs) who has stopped 15 of his 20 victims, the last of which was in March when he defended his WBO Latino title on hometurf in Santo Domingo and stopped Reinaldo Gonzalez in the fifth.
“I am happy that the fight is done and the opponent is confirmed for October 12,” said Bivol. “Castillo is a good opponent, he fought Marcus Brown before, it was a good fight. I can’t wait and hope that we can make a very exciting performance for the fans!”
“First of all I want to thank Matchroom Boxing USA, Eddie Hearn, Spartan Boxing, Raul Pastrana and the WBA for this opportunity,” said Castillo.
“It’s a dream come true! I consider Dmitriy Bivol in the top 20 on the Pound for Pound list but I know that a have the tools to upset him. I been training very hard. On October 12 you will see the best version of Lenin Castillo. I will take the title to the Dominican Republic!”
“Dmitry will defend his title again on October 12 in Chicago!” said World of Boxing’s Andrei Ryabinskiy. “This year we were not able to organize a unification fight for Dmitry, but we’re looking forward to bigger things next year!”
“We are looking forward to another great performance by Dmitry on October 12th,” said Bivol’s manager Vadim Kornilov. “Castillo is a tough opponent and it’s another opportunity for Dmitry to build his reputation as one of the most avoided boxers in the division!”
Bivol’s clash with Castillo is part of a huge night of action in Chicago topped by the Heavyweight debut of pound for pound star Oleksandr Usyk against unbeaten contender Tyrone Spong and there’s more World title action on the card as Chicago’s Jessica McCaskill defends her WBA and WBC World Super-Lightweight titles against old foe Erica Farias.
Unbeaten Super-Middleweight talent Anthony Sims Jr returns to action against Morgan Fitch, Charles Conwell defends his USBA Super-Welterweight title against Patrick Day, an all-Chicago Super-Featherweight clash between Josh Hernandez and Giovanni Mioletti and a fourth pro outing for rising starlet Otha Jones III.
Tickets are on sale now for Usyk vs. Spong starting at just $40 plus booking fees at: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/070057139FF02C5D.
RICHARD COMMEY “MORE THAN READY” FOR TEOFIMO LOPEZ, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN AND TELECAST LIVE ON ESPN

New York, NY (September 26, 2019) On December 14, Madison Square Garden, the Mecca of Boxing, will once again play host to one of the most highly anticipated fights in boxing as IBF Lightweight World Champion Richard Commey (29-2, 26 KOs), of Brooklyn, NY, makes the second defense of his title against #1-ranked mandatory challenger Teofimo Lopez (14-0, 11 KOs), also of Brooklyn, NY. The 12-round clash will be broadcast live on ESPN.
A native of the boxing rich country of Ghana, the hard-punching Commey is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, trained by Andre Rozier and managed by Keith Connolly and Mickey Amoo-Bediako, of Streetwise Management. On February 2, he fulfilled a lifelong dream and won the world lightweight title in a brilliant second-round knockout of Isa Chaniev in Dallas, TX. Making his first defense on June 28, he dominated and stopped former world champion Ray Beltran in the eighth round in Temecula, California. Both fights were also telecast live on ESPN.
Said Commey, “I’m really excited to be defending my belt at the Mecca of Boxing, Madison Square Garden. To be one of the featured bouts at such a prestigious venue is what dreams are made of. I have worked hard to be in this position and will be working harder to stay here. I want to thank my promoter Lou DiBella, my managers Michael Amoo-Bediako and Keith Connolly and my trainer Andre Rozier for making this happen for me.”
“Since winning his world title and defending it in dominant fashion, Richard has shown that he is ready for anyone in the lightweight division,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “Commey is the champion and Lopez is a far less experienced challenger. Richard is the A-side unless and until Teofimo is able to prove otherwise on December 14 at Madison Square Garden.”
“Richard Commey can’t wait until December 14 to show the entire boxing world that he’s one of the most underrated champions in the sport,” said co-manager Keith Connolly. “If he beats a guy like Teofimo Lopez, who is one of the most hyped young prospects in the sport and deservedly so, Richard will prove to be a bonafide A-level world champion.”
“It’s been a long journey, but Richard is now getting the rewards that his hard work and sacrifice deserve,” said co-manager Mickey Amoo-Bediako. “Team Commey is looking forward to seeing Richard write another chapter in his remarkable story, which will lead him to his ultimate destiny and that’s to be the undisputed lightweight champion of the world.”
Stated trainer Rozier, “Being in training camp with Richard is like a trip to Disneyland. Fun, exciting and enjoyable, he’ll be more than ready on December 14.”
Fighting on July 19, in his last bout, the 22-year-old Lopez struggled to a 12-round unanimous decision against Masayoshi Nakatini setting up the world title showdown with Commey.
Brandon Robinson takes on Martez McGregor on Friday, October 25th at The 2300 Arena

Philadelphia, PA (September 26, 2019)–Brandon Robinson returns to main event status as he takes on tough Martez McGregor in the eight-round main event on Friday night, October 25th at The 2300 Arena in Philadelphia.
The show kicks off a monster weekend for King’s Promotions.
Robinson of Philadelphia has a record of 13-2 with nine knockouts.
The 31 year-old Robinson is a three-year professional who has wins over Brandon Clark (2-0), Ernest Amuzu (25-3) and is coming off a win over Devaun Lee on May 10th at The 2300 Arena.
McGregor of Maywood, Illinois has a record of 8-2 with six knockouts.
Highlighted in McGregor’s resume was a win over previously undefeated Luis Jimenez (3-0). McGregor is coming off a tough battle with undefeated Cem Kilic on June 15th, for which McGregor was stopped by the undefeated prospect in the eighth and final round.
In six-round bouts:
Damon Allen Jr. (15-5-1, 5 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a junior welterweight fight.
Nain Nelson (13-4, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights Roy McGill (6-3, 3 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA in a junior welterweight contest.
Avril Mathie (3-0, 2 KOs) of Miami takes on 24 fight veteran Karen Dulin of North Kingstown, Rhode Island in a bantamweight fight.
In four-round fights:
James Martin (4-1) of Philadelphia takes on Juan Rodriguez (8-15-1, 6 KOs) of Haymarket, VA in a welterweight tussle.
Nicoy Clarke (2-4) of Jersey City, NJ fights Angel Rivera (4-1, 3 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA in a cruiserweight bout.
Ryan Umberger (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on an opponent to be named in a middleweight fight.
Rasheen Brown (4-0, 1 KO) of Philadelphia fights an opponent to be named in a super bantamweight bout.
LIVE VIDEO: Spence vs Porter – Undercard Press Conference
VIDEO: Dubois vs Tetteh | Live Weigh-ins
Sampson Boxing Signs Undefeated Argentinean Light Heavyweight Marcos Escudero to a Promotional Contract
Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of Argentinean light heavyweight prospect Marcos Escudero to a promotional contract.
26-year-old Escudero (10-0, 9 KOs) is a deadly accurate power puncher from Cordoba, Argentina. As an amateur, he competed nationally and internationally. In 2014, Escudero would become the national champion in Argentina and in 2015, represented Argentina in the Pan Am Games. He finished the unpaid ranks with a respectable 60-5 record.
In just his second year as a professional, the undefeated Escudero has already won the WBC Latin Silver Light Heavyweight Championship with a TKO 7 over countryman Elio Heraldo Trosch last April.
He is currently living and training in Miami, Florida, and has connected with manager Gardner Payne of Payne Boxing, LLC., who arranged the agreement with Sampson Boxing.
“Since I became a fighter in Argentina, it has been my dream to win a world championship for myself, my family and my country,” said Escudero. “This will be my opportunity to show the world who I am. I will put Argentina back on top of boxing, as Sergio Martinez, Carlos Monzon and Marcos Maidana did. Today, I took one giant step closer to making that dream a reality.”
Manager Payne says he’s thrilled to have joined forces with long-time promoter and world-famous talent discoverer Lewkowicz.
“It is an honor to have one of the Payne Boxing fighters join forces with Sampson Promotions,” said Payne. “Sampson is one of the greatest promoters in the history of boxing and we are beyond excited to work with him and his promotion company. Sampson Boxing provides Marcos with the opportunity to realize his dream of becoming a world champion. The first time I met Marcos I knew that he was destined for greatness. No one works harder or with more determination that Marcos. He is the total package — a great fighter with the necessary power, technical skills, work ethic, determination and humility to be a world champion.”
“I am very happy to have made this connection with Marcos Escudero and his manager Gardner Payne,” said Sampson Lewkowicz. “Marcos is a very, very strong fighter with one-punch power in both fists. Argentina has produced many great boxing champions and unforgettable fights and Marcos is another in that mold. He has a very TV-friendly style and never stops hunting down his opponent. He will be a force to recognize at 175 lbs. in the not-so-distant future.”
About Sampson Boxing
Sampson Boxing has promotional partners all over North and South America, Africa, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Europe and Central America. Sampson Boxing events have been televised on such premiere networks as HBO, Showtime, ESPN, ESPN+, DAZN, VS., FOX, Fox Sports and several international networks. For more information, visit sampsonboxing.com.
EUBANKS’ MENTOR RONNIE DAVIES HIGHLY RATES TOP TALENT ALEX DILMAGHANI
| BOLTON, UK (26 September 2019) Septuagenarian fight face Ronnie Davies – Svengali to the Eubanks, Senior and Junior – has scaled the highest summits in the boxing business so his counsel merits full attention.
Davies, the ex-Southern Area lightweight king from Hove, who has served the Noble Art as fighter and coach for close to 60 years now, is adamant that fellow South Coast native Dilmaghani is destined to duplicate the two Chris’s by reigning at world level. Britain’s best kept boxing secret until late May, classy Crayford super-featherweight ace Alex Dilmaghani takes on dynamite hitting Francisco Fonseca at the Premier Suite, University of Bolton, exclusively live on free-to-air Channel 5 this Saturday night from 9pm. ‘I’ve known Alex since he was 14 years old,’ says the venerable sage. ‘To fill in time between training the pros, I used to take a class of young kids at Cheetahs Gym in Hove. I remember Alex was incredibly dedicated. He walked miles just to catch the train from Worthing and I later learned he saved up all his pocket money to pay his gym subs. If I’d known, I’d never have taken them. ‘Straight away, I thought his dedication stood him out as special. And he always listened. Everybody in the game knows I’m ‘old school’. I teach the forgotten art of working off the ropes; bobbing, slipping, catching punches. Alex had that off to an art at a very young age. He had great instinctive defence and very fast hands. A natural.’ Simultaneous to studying for a law degree at the University of Southampton, dazzler Dilma launched into a career as a paid prizefighter back in 2009, aged just 17, and with literally just a fistful of amateur bouts on his CV. ‘I certainly didn’t persuade Alex to turn pro as a teenager,’ states Ronnie. ‘He just really wanted to do it. He believed he was good enough and he was. For his debut, they slung him in against Baz Carey, a 50 odd fight hard, hard journeymen who’d taken guys like Rendall Munroe, Michael Gomez, Amir Khan and Tyrone Nurse to points. At 17, Alex just played with him. ‘I’ve gotta say, I absolutely loved him. All the boys at our gym did. Alex was always very respectful but also very strong mentally. I had a quality squad back then and, as a teenager, he had hard spars with lads like Henry Castle, Chill John, Chris (Eubank) Jr. But I never worried cos they just couldn’t catch him. He more than held his own. If anything, Alex used to get on top of them. ‘He was a beautiful boxer who never took a punch and he had tremendous fitness and work rate. I’ve never seen anyone train harder at the gym, and that includes the Eubanks. Alex never lost with me but he had to leave because he wanted 24/7 attention and, at the time, because of other commitments, I couldn’t give it to him.’ Nevertheless, coach Davies continued to monitor the silky southpaw’s development when, post-graduation, he migrated to Mexico City and enrolled at the finishing school of legendary Hall of Fame trainer Ignacio ‘Nacho’ Beristain. ‘Getting off his arse and going to serve his apprenticeship in those rough, tough gyms in Mexico City, when he was only a boy, whatever Alex gets, he deserves,’ states Davies. Operating on foreign climes between August 2014 and October 2018, the classy Crayford-based contender racked up five wins in Mexico and a further half dozen after relocating to Canada. Presently undefeated in well over eight years, Dilma positively sizzling in an emotional British homecoming at Manchester’s Victoria Warehouse last May, smashing 25-2-1 Slovak strongman Martin Parlagi inside schedule. ‘Alex was only a boy when he left me. Today, since returning from Mexico, he’s a lot, lot stronger,’ remarked Ronnie. ‘I was very impressed with him in that last fight. Alex boxed beautifully, didn’t put a foot wrong. The Slovakian boy was no mug but eventually he looked for the back door (Parlagi quit early in round eight, citing a damaged hand).’ This Friday, at the Bolton White’s Hotel, the lad Davies has known for half Dilma’s life, attempts to storm the world rankings when he gambles against Nicaragua’s ferocious Francisco Fonseca – a feted bomber who has twice contested the IBF world title and has splattered 19 of the 25 victims on his 28 fight CV ahead of schedule – for the Vacant WBA International 130lb Championship. Free-to-air Channel Five screen live on free-to-air TV and whoever prevails can expect to catapult into the world title frame. ‘This fight with Fonseca is ideal for Alex. The Nicaraguan’s proven world class and a genuine dangerman but Alex is 29 and he’s ready. He’s got to do it now,’ assesses Davies. ‘I know what he takes to steer fighters to world titles. Skill wise, Dilmaghani has what it takes and he’s also very clever. Alex can certainly be a world champion, if he’s handled right. It’s entirely up to him. If he wants it, he can do it. ‘And I think he will. His best quality is his dedication. He lives so clean. Too many of today’s fighters don’t but he’s a perfectionist. He has such great self-belief and mental strength, and that’s what I believe will push him through.’ |
| Chief support on the talent stacked card sees undefeated starlets Jack ‘The Giant Killer’ Flatley and Harry ‘Hammer Time’ Scarff fight it out over 10 rounds for the former’s English Super-Welterweight Championship. Bolton wonder Flatley, a former national amateur finalist at both junior and senior level, is yet to be beaten in 16 but the ex-England international can expect to be stretched right to the limit by 7-0 Derby six footer Scarff in a mouthwatering match-up.Promoter Hennessy’s son, Michael Hennessy Jr, an all action middleweight who is undefeated in two, is set to feature in a six rounder. A full undercard featuring several of Steve Wood’s rising talents is set to garnish an unmissable night of entertainment.Passions are sure to run high when Darwen’s robust Mickey Ellison (9-2) locks horns with Manchester technician Charlie Schofield (unbeaten in 16) in a seriously spicy looking Eliminator for the English Super-Middleweight Championship.Popular Wigan welterweight James Moorcroft and Oldham’s turbo charged Andy Kremner will be banking to triumph in separate six rounders before clashing against each other back at the Bolton Whites in December. The former goes up against Manchester circuit fighter Sam Omidi whilst the returning Kremner seeks to become the first to stop Cannock tough man Lee Gunter.Prestwich pressure fighter Sean Ben Mulligan, beaten just once in 11, endeavours to edge yet further up the domestic super-welter rankings by prevailing in a Roses rumble with 71 fight Driffield warmonger Danny ‘Lethal’ Little. Wigan lightweight Rhiannon Dixon makes her exciting debut over four rounds against nine fight Lithuanian Vaida Maseokaite, a regular visitor to these shores. Stretford’s Bradley Rea, Wigan’s Andrew Fleming and Stockport’s Jack Booth are three local lads who’ll be seeking to extend their perfect slates. Middleweight Rea, described as ‘a serious talent’ by promoter Wood, will be hoping to go seven-up in an Anglo-Scottish affair with Stranraer’s significantly more seasoned Paul Allison. Also over six, Fleming, a strong super-lightweight southpaw, intends to stretch his streak to eight against an opponent still to be announced while Matthew Hatton’s all-action super-middle starlet Booth will be looking to defuse ‘Baltic Bomber’ Genadij Krejevskij from Lithuania in an intriguing international four-rounder. |
DANIEL DUBOIS HAILS LENNOX LEWIS AS GREATEST INFLUENCE ON HIS BOXING STYLE AHEAD OF COMMONWEALTH TITLE CLASH
WHEN PUSHED ON which former boxer supplied the greatest influence on his style, Daniel Dubois had little hesitation in naming the most successful British heavyweight of all-time.
Lennox Lewis, a three-time world heavyweight champion, twice lineal champion and the last to be able to call himself the undisputed champion of the world was the name put forward by star in the making Dubois ahead of his bid to win the Commonwealth title at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday.
Dubois takes on the unbeaten, 19-0, Ebenezer Tetteh in the latest staging post on his route to the top of the division. Success on Friday will make it seven different title wins in just 13 fights.
Lewis called it a day in June 2003 with a record of 41-2-1 following victory over Vitali Klitschko in Los Angeles, with the future champion Klitschko stopped in the sixth due to a severe cut.
He has in the recent past spent time with Dubois, advising the now 22-year-old with a few punching pointers, which perhaps reveals why the current British champion likens his approach to the 1988 Olympic gold medallist.
“If I had to pick I would say maybe Lennox Lewis for his jab and all-round athletic ability,” considered Dubois, who added that his overall style is not based on a specific individual. “My game really is based on the bits and pieces I learned at my amateur clubs and where I am now.
“I am a solid, fundamental boxer. Basic boxing, but effective.”
Certainly effective, but Dubois doesn’t view himself as travelling along in the fast lane and insists his development will continue over the next 12 months.
“Still progressing because this is still an ongoing case. I am in no rush but I see myself climbing the ranks and adding a few more titles to my resume.”
Daniel Dubois headlines the bill when he meets Ghana’s Ebenezer Tetteh for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight crown and WBO flyweight champion Nicola Adams defends her title for the first time against experienced Mexican Maria Salinas, live on BT Sport.
The card will also feature WBO European super-featherweight champion Archie Sharp who makes his second title defence against Dublin’s Declan Geraghty.
Middleweight banger Denzel Bentley, heavyweight Jonathan Palata, lightweight Mohammad Bilal Ali and precocious bantamweight talent Dennis McCann are also in action.
Exciting prospects Lewis Edmondson, Eithan James and Sam Noakes all make their professional debuts.
Tickets for the September 27 bill at the Royal Albert Hall are available to purchase from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and www.royalalberthall.com. Prices £40, £50, £75, £100, £150 Ringside.
ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. SHAWN PORTER & ANTHONY DIRRELL VS. DAVID BENAVIDEZ FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

LOS ANGELES (September 25, 2019) – IBF Welterweight World Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter had an intense faceoff at Wednesday’s final press conference before they headline a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, September 28 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
The press conference also featured WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell and former world champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez exchanging words before they clash in the co-main event of pay-per-view action that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from the Wilshire Grand Ballroom II at the Intercontinental Hotel:
ERROL SPENCE JR.
“I feel like all of my fights prepared me for this moment. Porter is not like Mikey Garcia. They have different styles and different mentalities. But there are a lot of distractions fighting at home and I feel like I overcame that to lead me to this point.
“I don’t make anything of the words he’s saying. We train hard and we’re focused and prepared for anything he brings Saturday night.
He’s been talking a lot, his dad’s been talking a lot and I’m going to shut him up. They’re going to call me the “show stopper’ after Saturday night.
“I’ve prepared for everything. It’s all about adjustments. I make them fast in the ring. People thought Kell Brook’s experience would help him but it didn’t at all. I can adjust to my opponent’s style and we will show it Saturday.
“I’m ready to go. I never missed weight and I’m always professional. It’s just hard work and dedication. I’m going to be even more ripped and ready than I was against Mikey Garcia.
“This is going to be an amazing event come Saturday night. I will be the unified champion of the world. Shawn comes to fight and I embrace that. I can’t wait because I promise this is going to be one for the history books.
“I just have to do what I’ve been doing. I don’t care about the rounds as long as it doesn’t go 12.
I’m going to win and do it in dominating fashion.
“It’s important to me to get the knockout. It’s a goal of mine to stop him and I hope to get it done. If can’t get it done, then I’m just going to be comfortable with the victory. But you know I’m looking for the stoppage.”
SHAWN PORTER
“It’s the competitor in me to get at him any way I can. Until that bell rings, we’ll do whatever we need to do to let him know we’re really here to fight him.
“When you’re in there with a top level opponent, it’s supposed to be a close action packed fight. I have everything it takes to make each fight exciting when I step into the ring.
“Everyone has seen everything what I’ve done in my career. Everyone knows I can take a punch and I’ll be there from the first round to the last round. We’ll see what happens to Errol as the fight goes on.
“This is the best camp I’ve ever had. The nutrition and everything has been spot on. I’m ahead of schedule and that’s where I plan to stay. I expect to be eating Friday morning.
“I’m aggressive and I’m strong and guys can’t handle it. There are things that happen in the ring and you just have to move with it. I’m always ready to do whatever it takes to get the job done.
“I expected it to get heated today. I know that if I fire at Errol, he’s going to fire back. That’s how the fights going to be as well. Everyone got a good taste of what you’ll see Saturday.
“Being in the underdog position is literally where I come from. Northeast Ohio is always an underdog. Everybody works where I come from. We always do the best we can.
“The resume is for everyone else to compare and contrast. For me, it’s all about who’s in front of me. I believe I have the right recipe to be the person to get the job done Saturday. I have the style to challenge him physically and mentally.
“We didn’t change too much of our program heading into this fight. For the second time we went down to Washington, D.C. for part of our camp.”
ANTHONY DIRRELL
“The underdog or the favorite I’m always going to ”The Dog’ no matter what. People can have their opinion on the odds, but it doesn’t play into my mentality at all for this fight.
“This is a fight that could very well steal the show on this pay-per-view. It’s an honor to be in this position. It’s a dream to be on a card like this defending my title.
“I have to see how it plays out, but age is just a number. You see Manny Pacquiao and fighters like that who went out and beat younger opponents. You have to be determined and still focused on the game.
“Experience is definitely a big key in this fight. I think that he has holes in his game and I’m going to expose it on Saturday night.
“The cut from my last fight won’t be an issue for this one. That fight was over six months ago, so if it’s going to heal, it should be healed. It doesn’t affect anything I’m doing in the ring.
“My training camp in Las Vegas was spectacular. It’s all about taking yourself out of your comfort zone and push yourself to the max to be successful at this elite level.
“I don’t think this fight is going the distance and I know I’m having my hand raised at the end. He got dropped with a jab and I hit harder than Ronald Gavril.”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“I’m very motivated for this fight. I feel like I have another opportunity to not just get a title, but take it from a champion. I’ve worked very hard for this fight. Dirrell has never been knocked out and I’m taking the challenge to be the man who does it.
“This is the perfect time for this fight. I’m getting stronger every day. Dirrell feels like he has a lot to prove to the fans. So it’s going to be a war as long as it lasts.
This is going to be an amazing card. It’s a stacked card from beginning to end. I want to make a statement and steal the show.
“Dirrell is a great fighter and we’re both ready for what we’re going to do. There’s a respect between us, but I’m going for the knockout. If I don’t, he’s going to get a beating.
“I’m definitely going to make this weight class my home. I have no problem at all making weight. There’s a lot of great fights to be made at super middleweight and we’re going to stay here as long as we can get those fights done.
“As of right now, all of my attention is on Anthony Dirrell. We give him the respect he deserves because he’s a champion at the end of the day. It’s going to take my best to beat him and we’re looking forward to doing it.
“Dirrell has experience, plus some speed and power. He can change from orthodox to southpaw and has a lot of tricks in his book. He’s been in there with some good fighters. But what motivates me the most is that he’s never really been hurt and I want to be the first. I know when I put my hands on somebody, I can hurt them.”
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ABOUT SPENCE VS. PORTER
Spence vs. Porter pits unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. against WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter in a 147-pound title unification that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
The pay-per-view event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell facing unbeaten former champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez in the co-main event, unbeaten contenders Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov battling for the WBA Super Lightweight title, and rugged veteran Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and brawler John Molina Jr. competing in a 10-round welterweight fight.
For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepageand www.foxdeportes.com, 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.
Top Rank and Star Boxing Join Forces to Promote Heavyweight Contender Carlos Takam

(Sept. 25, 2019) — Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and former heavyweight world title challenger Carlos Takam have joined forces with Top Rank.
Takam, 38, will make his Star Boxing/Top Rank debut on an ESPN platform in early 2020.
“Carlos Takam is an exciting, world-class heavyweight who always makes for outstanding fights,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “I look forward to working with Joe DeGuardia and his team, as we believe Carlos has what it takes to reach the top of the division.”
“Big thanks to my promoter Joe DeGuardia of Star Boxing and many thanks to ESPN and Bob Arum,” Takam said. “I am grateful and excited for the opportunity in my quest to become the heavyweight champion of the world. I would like to thank my team for the great job they are doing and all my fans all over the world for their support.”
Said DeGuardia: “Carlos and I are pleased to be joining forces with Top Rank and ESPN. Carlos will have all the opportunities needed to rise to the pinnacle of the heavyweight division, and we are certainly looking forward to 2020.”
Takam (37-5-1, 28 KOs) is a 14-year pro who has been a contender for the better part of a decade, notching wins over former world title challengers Tony Thompson, Francois Botha and Michael Grant. He challenged Anthony Joshua for the unified heavyweight title on October 28, 2017, putting forth a respectable effort before being stopped in the 10th round. He has won two in a row since a knockout loss to Derek Chisora, and on September 14, he made his U.S. and Star Boxing debut, decisioning Craig Lewis over 10 rounds in Monticello, New York.
Born in Cameroon, Takam didn’t begin boxing until his early 20s. He represented his home nation at the 2004 Athens Olympics, advancing to the round of 16. Takam spent most of his early professional career fighting in his adopted home country of France, building a 29-1 record before his HBO-televised draw versus Mike Perez in January 2014. Three of five defeats have come against fighters who are currently ranked in the top 10 by both ESPN.com and Ring Magazine. The rejuvenated Takam now has sights set, once again, on the division’s elite.
Hot Prospect Justin Cardona Makes Staples Center Debut
LOS ANGELES, CA (September 25, 2019) – Undefeated super lightweight prospect, Justin “The Stallion” Cardona (3-0, 2 KOs), who hails from Salinas, CA, will be making his Staples Center debut this Saturday, September 28, 2019, on the Errol Spence vs. Shawn Porter card. Cardona is excited about fighting on the big stage as he gives his thoughts on his upcoming four-round bout against Archie Weah (3-13, 1 KO).
“It’s always been a dream of mine to fight at the Staples Center in Los Angeles” said Cardona, who is trained by Ruben Guerrero Sr., father of multiple division world champion, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero. “As a kid growing up, I remember all the big fights that happened there with guys like Sugar Shane Mosley and Oscar De La Hoya. For this to be a reality now is unbelievable. I’m very grateful for this opportunity and I’m going to give the fans a very memorable performance.”
In preparation for this fight, Cardona spent camp with Robert Guerrero in Las Vegas, getting world class sparring with some of the best fighters in boxing. Cardona feels he’s more prepared going into this fight then any other in his career.
“Training in Las Vegas was a new, but exciting experience for me,” Cardona continued. “I learned a lot about how to take care of my body and what it takes to get to the championship level. This training camp was no joke. The sparring I got was incredible and the high-altitude training was grueling. The Guerrero family has been a tremendous blessing to my career, and everyone will see me at my best come fight night.”
“Justin works very hard in the gym and he’s learning what it takes to be a good pro in boxing,” said Ruben Guerrero, who’s been training Cardona since he turned pro. “This was his first camp in Las Vegas and he now knows what it takes to become a world champion. I see a bright future for this kid and he has all the tools to go to the top”
GOLDEN BOY AND FACEBOOK ANNOUNCE THE LAUNCH OF A FOUR-EVENT MEXICAN BOXING SERIES
LOS ANGELES – Sept. 25, 2019: Golden Boy,the leading media and entertainment brand, has expanded its partnership with Facebook to bring boxing aficionados new content streamed live from Mexico on Facebook Watch. Both brands are looking to replicate the success of Golden Boy’s Facebook Watch broadcasts in the United States, while providing a platform for up-and-coming talent to gain popularity among aficionados worldwide.
“Mexico is an important market for Golden Boy. Not only have we seen some of the best boxers in history come from Mexico, but the fans are some of the most loyal and passionate in the sport,” said Oscar de la Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “By expanding our series to new markets in Mexico, we are hoping to build a stronger community, create unique experiences for attendees and, most importantly, pave the foundation for what boxing broadcasts will look like in the future.”
The four-series event began on Sept. 21 with Joseph ‘JoJo’ Diaz Jr. ( 30-1, 15 KOs) of South El Monte, California defeating Venezuelan contender Jesus Cuadro (18-6, 14 KOs) for the WBA Gold Super Featherweight Title at the Auditorio del Estado in Mexicali, Mexico. The series will continue with monthly broadcasts featuring championship level contenders fighting in different areas around the country, including Chihuahua, Mexico. More details for each event will be revealed shortly.
“Golden Boy has been a key partner in helping us rethink how live sports can be experienced on Facebook Watch,” said Devi Mahadevia, Facebook Director of Emerging and Digital Sports Partnerships. “We’re excited to work together again to showcase some of the top boxers from Mexico to a global audience via the interactive and social broadcasts that Golden Boy viewers are accustomed to on Watch.”
Golden Boy’s production entity, Media and Entertainment, will continue producing the live fights and original programming. De La Hoya will continue his role as Executive Producer as he implements his vision for transforming the way boxing broadcasts are developed and consumed. For example, Golden Boy’s Facebook Watch productions last year featured elements that enabled viewers to participate in the broadcasts. These included polling, where fans could answer questions in real-time, and live Q&A, where announcers answered fan questions on air. Viewers were even able to choose the match-up for an upcoming broadcast’s co-main event.
As always, the fights will be streamed live globally on Facebook Watch via the Golden Boy Fight Night Page, the home for Golden Boy’s live events and shoulder programming through its Facebook partnership.
About Facebook Watch
Facebook Watch is a place to discover and enjoy video on Facebook. Home to a wide range of video – from scripted comedy and drama, to competition and reality series, to individual creators and live sports – Facebook Watch is a destination where content, community and conversation come together. This is a personalized viewing experience, where you can discover new content based on what your friends are watching, and catch up on the shows you follow. Facebook Watch is available for free on mobile apps across Apple and Android, on desktop, laptop and on TV apps listed HERE.
About Golden Boy:
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy was established in 2002 by Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy is a media and entertainment brand committed to making fighting entertainment more accessible and affordable. The company’s in-house production team develops creative original programming for ESPN, RingTV.com and international channels across the globe. The company holds the exclusive rights to top boxers and has promoted some of the biggest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport. Now, Golden Boy is one of the most successful boxing entertainment companies in the world and shapes the future of boxing for fighters and fans alike through its 2019 partnership with streaming platform, DAZN.
For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com. Follow on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing. Become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing.
BUNN DEFENDS IBF TITLE AGAINST GERMAN RIVAL KOELLING
| Leon Bunn (14-0, 8 KOs) will defend his IBF International Light Heavyweight title against German rival Enrico Koelling (26-3, 8 KOs) in a huge domestic showdown on November 2 at the CGM Arena in Koblenz.
Bunn claimed the IBF title with a vicious ninth-round TKO win over Leon Harth on May 4 at the Fraport Arena in Frankfurt, and is looking forward to making his first defence against his former Team Sauerland stablemate Koelling. Koelling, who represented Germany at the 2012 Olympics, is a former WBA Intercontinental Champion, who challenged Artur Beterbiev for the IBF World title, and most recently fought Dominic Boesel for the European crown. “My last fight was a special night for me, to headline in front of thousands of fans in my home city was a night I will never forget,” said Bunn. “I’m looking forward to defending my belt on November 2. Enrico brings a lot of experience into the ring and has shown his talent before. He can say whatever he wants, but I will let my fists do the talking in the ring. “It’s going to be a great fight that all boxing fans can look forward to. I will defend my title and move on to achieve my next goal. Enrico Koelling cannot stop me!” “Bunn is overrated. He hits a lot but doesn’t have any power,” says Koelling. “The time of the unbeaten ‘wannabe’ champions is over. A champion is someone who learns from his defeats and grows. Leon will have that chance after we fight.” Bunn is backed by legendary trainer Ulli Wegner, who has been in the Frankfurt fighter’s corner since his professional debut in 2016. “It will be an exciting fight and it’s one I’m looking forward to. I know Leon and I know Enrico, both are boxers who are looking to move forward,” said Wegner. “Leon is unstoppable in my eyes. He wants to go all the way and achieve the maximum success. He has the determination and I am firmly convinced that he will beat Enrico.” Promoter Nisse Sauerland is looking forward to returning to Koblenz following the success of Team Sauerland’s February 16 show at the CGM Arena. “Leon Bunn against Enrico Koelling is a massive fight for German boxing,” said Bunn’s promoter Nisse Sauerland. “Enrico has fought for the European and World titles and Leon Bunn is one of the most exciting contenders in Germany. “This is a real 50/50 fight between two of the best German light heavyweights and I can’t wait for fight night!” 17-year-old sensation Sophie Alisch (4-0, 1 KO) will be looking for her fifth victory of the year as she returns to the CGM Arena having made her professional debut in Koblenz in February. Also on the undercard are local stars Slawa Spomer (8-0, 5 KOs), Roman Gorst (5-0, 5 KOs), Hizni Altunkaya (31-3, 18 KOs) and Yasin Altunkaya (14-0, 11 KOs). ‘Fighting For Future’ on November 2 is a special event that will see ticket revenue and money raised from the evening donated to three charities: Laughing Hearts, a charity that provides support and opportunities to children affected by poverty, Parents’ Initiative for Children with Cancer Koblenz, who provide support to the parents of children suffering from cancer in Koblenz and Education Unlimited, an education charity who encourage diversity and training across Europe. All the action from the CGM Arena is available to watch live on Sport1 in Germany. Tickets are available online via www.eventim.de, www.adticket.de and www.westticket.de. |
ALEX DILMAGHANI: “FONSECA’S A WORLD CLASS OPERATOR, I’M A WORLD CLASS OPERATOR. IT’LL BE A WORLD CLASS FIGHT!
| BOLTON, UK (25 September 2019) Britain’s best kept boxing secret until late May, classy Crayford super-featherweight ace Alex Dilmaghani is fast evolving into one of the hottest trends in the ‘hit’ parade as he heads towards his showdown this Saturday (28 September) against dynamite hitting Francisco Fonseca at the Premier Suite, University of Bolton, exclusively live on Channel 5.
Since returning to Blighty following a five-year exile mastering his craft at the fabled Romanza Gym in Mexico City, prime time terrestrial TV slots and glossy spreads in the trade papers have suddenly alerted the cognoscenti of the slick and speedy 28 year old southpaw’s soaring talent and colourful back story. Latest to seek his testimony were talkSPORT’s Fight Night presenters Adam Catterall and Gareth A.Davies who invited ‘Dilma – who is unbeaten in over eight years ago – to serve as their study guest last week. |
LIVE VIDEO: Spence vs Porter – Final Press Conference
“DANIEL DUBOIS HAS THE JAB OF LARRY HOLMES” – FRANK WARREN
FRANK WARREN has compared rising heavyweight sensation Daniel Dubois with all time great Larry Holmes.
The Hall of Fame promoter admits he has burdened Dubois by describing him as, ‘The best young heavyweight in the world.’
Now he has jabbed even more praise towards the young star whose career he is masterminding.
Holmes held a world heavyweight championship from 1978 to 1985 making 20 world title defences a record only bettered by Joe Louis and Wladimir Klitschko.
Dubois has to live up to his promoter’s high praise when he challenges Ghanaian Ebenezer Tetteh (19-0, 16KOs) for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight crown at London’s Royal Albert Hall on Friday (September 27), live on BT Sport.
Warren said: “Daniel is a special young man.
“As my boxing mentor, the late Ernie Fossey said, ‘If you can’t jab, you can’t fight.’
“Good fighters have great jabs and Daniel has a great jab. It is a big comparison to make at this stage of his career, but Daniel has that Larry Holmes jab. I love seeing fighters who can jab.”
If Dubois overcomes Tetteh it will be his seventh professional championship in just 13 fights.
He has already won WBC Youth, Southern Area, English, WBO European, WBO Global and British titles since turning professional in April 2017.
Last week he was voted Young Boxer of the Year by the Boxing Writer’s Club and picks up that award at a gala dinner next month.
Dubois is also ranked 15 by the IBF and seven in the WBO rankings for the belts owned by Andy Ruiz Jr.
He hammered Nathan Gorman to become British champion in his most recent fight and Warren added: “He has had a fantastic year and gone from strength to strength.”
Daniel Dubois headlines the bill when he meets Ghana’s Ebenezer Tetteh for the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight crown and WBO flyweight champion Nicola Adams defends her title for the first time against experienced Mexican Maria Salinas, live on BT Sport.
The card will also feature WBO European super-featherweight champion Archie Sharp who makes his second title defence against Dublin’s Declan Geraghty.
Middleweight banger Denzel Bentley, heavyweight Jonathan Palata, lightweight Mohammad Bilal Ali and precocious bantamweight talent Dennis McCann are also in action.
Exciting prospects Lewis Edmondson, Eithan James and Sam Noakes all make their professional debuts.
Tickets for the September 27 bill at the Royal Albert Hall are available to purchase from www.ticketmaster.co.uk and www.royalalberthall.com. Prices £40, £50, £75, £100, £150 Ringside.
ERROL SPENCE JR. VS. SHAWN PORTER GRAND ARRIVALS KICK OFF FIGHT WEEK WITH MEDIA WORKOUTS, LIVE PERFORMANCES & MORE AT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC EVENT

LOS ANGELES (September 24, 2019) – Unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBC Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter made their grand arrivals Tuesday as they near their title unification showdown that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View this Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
Tuesday’s open to the public event featured live musical performances from Casey Veggies, Young Miller Tha Don, Ohana Bam, Mariachi Espuelas de Jalisco and was hosted by Jason Lee of Hollywood Unlocked at Xbox Plaza at L.A. Live.
Fighters competing in pay-per-view undercard action were also in attendance Tuesday including WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell and David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez, who meet in the co-main event, unbeaten Mario “El Azteca” Barrios, who battles Batyr Akhmedov for the vacant WBA Super Lightweight title, and all-action veterans Josesito Lopez and John Molina Jr., who compete in a 10-round welterweight fight.
Plus, former three-time world champion Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and top 154-pound prospect Joey Spencer were also in attendance ahead of their FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View Prelims on FS1 and FOX Deportes attractions.
Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Man Down Promotions, TGB Promotions and Shawn Porter Promotions, are on sale now and can be purchased at AXS.com.
Here is what the main and co-main event fighters had to say Tuesday:
ERROL SPENCE JR.
“This is going to be a tough fight because of Shawn’s style. He has a come-forward style and he likes to throw a lot of punches. He has a lot of will and he’s going to help make this a great fight.
“I’m confident in my abilities and confident that I will perform to the best of my abilities. I believe that no matter what Shawn brings to the ring, I’ll have an answer for it.
“I think this fight is coming at the perfect time. I’m going in the right direction in my career and I’m just going to keep achieving more and more from here.”
SHAWN PORTER
“Spence is a tactical fighter. I know they’ll have a good game plan but I’m confident in my abilities and in my corner.
“Errol and I are likeable and respectable guys, but we give it all in the ring. Fights like this are going to help the sport of boxing.
“I don’t just want to challenge Errol Spence Jr. I took on this fight because I want to be the guy who beats him and takes his 0. I think Kell Brook challenged him, but I’m here to have my hand raised at the end of the night.”
ANTHONY DIRRELL
“I don’t see this fight going the distance. I don’t work nine to five and I don’t get paid for overtime. You’re going to see on Saturday night.
“He’s still green. He’s done what he’s supposed to do. He’s knocked out fighters who he was supposed to knock out. I’m ready for anything he brings. I’ve seen it before and I’ve done it before.
“Experience is going to matter a lot on Saturday night. I think my mental game is going to outweigh his and he’s not going to know what hit him.”
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“We have a good game plan, but our job is to go out there and read what he’s doing and adjust. A lot of times fighters bring new wrinkles to the ring, so we have to be ready to make the right moves to counter it.
“Dirrell has talked about his experience, but I don’t think any of that is going to play a factor in the fight. I prepared myself very well and I’m ready for anything.
“I’ve been around a lot of great fighters and I’ve learned a lot. It’s not his job to know everything about me, but on Saturday night he’s going to find out who I really am.”
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ABOUT SPENCE VS. PORTER
Spence vs. Porter pits unbeaten IBF Welterweight Champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. against WBC Welterweight Champion “Showtime” Shawn Porter in a 147-pound title unification that headlines a FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View event on Saturday, September 28 from STAPLES Center in Los Angeles.
The pay-per-view event begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell facing unbeaten former champion David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez in the co-main event, unbeaten contenders Mario “El Azteca” Barrios and Batyr Akhmedov battling for the WBA Super Lightweight title, and rugged veteran Josesito “The Riverside Rocky” Lopez and brawler John Molina Jr. competing in a 10-round welterweight fight.
Top Rank Signs Team USA Heavyweight Phenom Jared Anderson
LAS VEGAS (Sept. 24, 2019) — Jared “Big Baby” Anderson, Team USA’s top-ranked heavyweight, signed a multi-year professional contract Tuesday afternoon with Top Rank.
Anderson, from the storied fight city of Toledo, Ohio, will make his professional debut October 26 on the Shakur Stevenson-Joet Gonzalez undercard in Reno, Nevada. Managed by James Prince and co-promoted by Antonio Leonard, the 19-year-old Anderson joins fellow Toledo natives Albert Bell and Tyler McCreary on the Top Rank roster.
Anderson is trained by Darrie Riley, the Toledo-based trainer who has helped develop a host of the city’s top young fighters, including Bell, DeAndre Ware, Angelo Snow and Wesley Tucker.
“Jared Anderson is a big, strong kid who proved himself to be a heavyweight destroyer while competing for Team USA,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “He can fight, he is a charismatic young man, and he has the desire to be one of the greats.”
“This means the world to me. I feel like I can start my career and build something so that I can support my family,” Anderson said. “I want to represent my city and become a role model for kids who have dreams. My dream is to become the heavyweight champion of the world. I want to become an ambassador for my city and use my platform for good. Toledo means so much to me and for me to give back would mean everything.”
Said Riley: “He is a good kid who has the work ethic needed to become a champion. By the time he was 15 years old, I knew he had what it took to become a great fighter. Toledo has a long history of great fighters, and Jared is the next one to represent his city.”
Anderson emerged as one of the nation’s most highly regarded talents when he upset the field to win a 2017 USA National Championship. He repeated as national champion in 2018 and decided to turn pro rather than pursue a spot on the 2020 Olympic team. As an amateur, Anderson sparred former world champion Joseph Parker, promotional stablemate Sonny Conto and 2016 Olympic super heavyweight gold medalist Tony Yoka.
CLARESSA SHIELDS AND HANNAH RANKIN MIAMI MEDIA WORKOUT QUOTES

MIAMI BEACH (September 24, 2019) – Undisputed Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields participated in a media workout in Miami on Tuesday in preparation for her upcoming showdown with Ivana Habazin next Saturday, October 5 live on SHOWTIME from Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center in Flint, Michigan.
Shields will look to become the fastest fighter in history, male or female, to win world titles in three divisions when she faces Habazin for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title in the main event of SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION in her hometown of Flint.
Also participating in Tuesday’s workout was IBO Super Welterweight Champion Hannah Rankin, who competes in a non-televised undercard attraction next Saturday.
Shields vs. Habazin is promoted by Salita Promotions. Tickets for the live event can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and at the Dort Center box office.
In the televised co-feature on October 5, undefeated welterweight sensation Jaron Ennis will return to national television against once-beaten Demian Daniel Fernandez in a 10-round bout. In the SHOWTIME opener, undefeated heavyweight prospect Jermaine Franklin will face once-beaten Pavel Šour less than an hour from his hometown of Saginaw, Mich.
Here’s what the fighters had to say on Tuesday from the famed 5th Street Gym in Miami Beach:
CLARESSA SHIELDS, Undisputed Middleweight World Champion
“I love boxing and I love that I’m one of the women who is carrying the sport, making it bigger and more well known. We’re getting more respect.
“There are fighters out there who believe that they can beat me and that really motivates me. That’s why I train and put in the time that I do.
“I want to show everybody that I’m a truly great fighter. I can beat Vasiliy Lomachenko’s record of winning titles in three divisions in 10 fights instead of 12. Plus, I’m going backwards, not going up in weight, where there are better challenges for me.
“My performances will lead to bigger fights and bigger purses for me and my opponents. I’m just going to keep building my name and building my brand.
“With this fight against Habazin, I’m definitely going in looking for the knockout. If I get it in spectacular fashion, that will go viral and help push my career forward.
“It means everything to have this fight back in my hometown. I want to be the good news for Flint and make people smile. I’m happy to be bringing a fight back home while I’m still on top. I feel like Flint will be uplifted by that.
“Everyone back home is really excited for this event. It’s going to be a huge homecoming for me on October 5.
“Muhammad Ali has trained here at 5th Street Gym and every time I train here I feel like I’m in his presence. It makes me want to be even greater. He’s the GOAT and I’m going to be the GWOAT.
“Being here in Florida is great for the weight cut. I’ve been down here for nine weeks and it’s hot every day. I’m sweating and working hard and the pounds are just coming off.”
HANNAH RANKIN, IBO Super Welterweight Champion
“It’s fantastic to be in Florida training for this fight. Everything has been perfect and I’m feeling great.
“I’m really looking forward to October 5. Me and my opponent are going to put on a great show for fans for six rounds or as long as it lasts. I want to show them what women’s boxing is about.
“There are lots of exciting things in the cards for me after this fight. I’m ready to take on the top fighters and pursue world titles at 154-pounds. I can’t wait to show everyone what I can do.”
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ABOUT SHIELDS VS. HABAZIN
Undisputed Middleweight World Champion Claressa Shields will aim to make history by becoming the fastest fighter in boxing, male or female, to become a three-division world champion when she takes on former world champion Ivana Habazin Saturday, October 5 live on SHOWTIME.
The showdown for the vacant WBO Junior Middleweight Title headlines a SHOWTIME BOXING: SPECIAL EDITION telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT from Dort Federal Event Center in Shields’ hometown of Flint, Mich. The vacant WBC Women’s Diamond Super Welterweight Championship will also be on the line in Shields’ first professional fight in her hometown.
JOET GONZALEZ RE-SIGNS WITH GOLDEN BOY AS HE PREPARES TO FIGHT FOR THE VACANT WBO FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE
LOS ANGELES (Sept. 24, 2019): Ahead of his first world title opportunity, Joet Gonzalez (23-0, 14 KOs) has re-signed with Golden Boy as he begins to conquer the featherweight division.
“Joet Gonzalez is one of the most talented and toughest fighters to come out of Southern California in recent years,” said Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy. “When we first signed him, he was an undefeated prospect who showed lots of promise, especially because of his amateur background. During the past years he has become the best featherweight contender in the world, and I’m proud to continue promoting him as enters the next level of his career. Joet Gonzalez will become champion on October 26, and I’m confident he will conquer the division.”
Gonzalez is an undefeated contender of Glendora, California who possess an impressive amateur resume. After several fights as a professional, the 25-year-old pugilist made his Golden Boy debut in April 2015 when he stopped Ali Gonzalez on an LA FIGHT CLUB card, where many young talents from the company developed into today’s contenders. Gonzalez then climbed the featherweight rankings by defeating fighters such as Deivi Julio Bassa, Rafael “Big Bang” Rivera, and Manuel “Tino” Avila. Now, Gonzalez will take on Shakur Stevenson (12-0, 7 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey for the vacant WBO Featherweight World Title in a bout promoted by Top Rank, in association with Golden Boy, Let’s Get It On Promotions and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. The fight will be streamed live on ESPN+.
“The relationship between a boxer, a manager and a promoter is a partnership,” said Joet Gonzalez. “I built and developed my career with Golden Boy, and now that I am fighting for a world title, I want to show everyone that we are in this together as I take the next step in my career. I want to thank my manager, Frank Espinoza, along with everyone at Golden Boy. This October 26 I will bring a world title back home.”
About Golden Boy
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy was established in 2002 by Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy is a media and entertainment brand committed to making fighting entertainment more accessible and affordable. The company’s in-house production team develops creative original programming for RingTV.com and international channels across the globe. The company holds the exclusive rights to top boxers and has promoted some of the biggest and highest grossing events in the history of the sport. Now, Golden Boy is one of the most successful boxing entertainment companies in the world and shapes the future of boxing for fighters and fans alike through its 2019 partnership with streaming platform, DAZN.
October 18: Collazo-Abdukakhorov Co-Feature Set for Beterbiev-Gvozdyk Light Heavyweight Title Unification Card in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (Sept. 24, 2019) — A high-stakes welterweight co-feature will set the stage for the can’t-miss light heavyweight unification bout between IBF champion Artur Beterbiev and WBC champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk Friday, October 18 at the Liacouras Center.
Former world champion Luis Collazo will take on IBF No. 1 contender Kudratillo “The Punisher” Abdukakhorov in a 10-rounder with potential world title implications.
Collazo-Abdukakhorov will be televised live on ESPN and ESPN Deportes immediately preceding Beterbiev-Gvozdyk at 10 p.m. ET, while the undercard will stream on ESPN+, the leading multi-sport streaming service, beginning at 7 p.m. ET.
“This is a fight that will deliver action and a top contender in the talent-rich welterweight division,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “Collazo-Abdukakhorov is a great complement to Beterbiev-Gvozdyk, and it’s only fitting that a card like this is coming to the great fighting city of Philadelphia.”
“I’m just ready to go. The Jose Benavidez Jr. fight didn’t happen because he was hurt or whatever, but trust me, you are going to see an incredible performance that will steal the show on October 18,” Collazo said. “I’m coming for everything. It’s now or never. I can’t wait to show out in the great city of Philadelphia.”
“I would like to thank Top Rank for giving me this opportunity to fight a great former champion,” Abdukakhorov said. “I am looking forward to showcasing my talent to the world. This will be a great fight, as Luis Collazo is someone who comes and gives 100 percent every fight and his aggressive style is adored by many fans. He has the heart of a true warrior. I do believe his age will be a factor, and I will try to capitalize on it. I am coming to this fight with every intention of beating him to cement my status as the mandatory for the IBF world title.”
Collazo (39-7, 20 KOs), the 38-year-old Brooklyn native who held a piece of the welterweight title from 2005-2006, is seeking one last crack at the brass ring. He has won three in a row since a 2015 KO loss to Keith Thurman, whom he hurt with a body shot and nearly knocked down. He is closing in on two decades as a pro and holds victories over the likes of Jose Antonio Rivera and Victor Ortiz. Most recently, he earned a split decision verdict over Samuel Vargas. Abdukakhorov (16-0, 9 KOs) earned the IBF No 1 ranking with a unanimous decision over Keita Obara March 30 in Philadelphia. A road warrior who was born in Uzbekistan, Abdukakhorov has fought in Uzbekistan, Singapore, Malaysia, Russia and the U.S.
In other undercard action:
- Light heavyweight contender Michael Seals (23-2, 17 KOs), fresh off his one-punch Knockout of the Year contender over Christopher Brooker on June 8, will lock horns with Elio “La Maquina” Trosch (14-8-2, 7 KOs) in a 10-rounder.
- Undefeated knockout artist Joseph “Blessed Hands” Adorno (13-0, 11 KOs) will take on Argentinean veteran Damian “El Pana” Sosa (9-2, 7 KOs) in an eight-round lightweight contest. Sosa has never been knocked out as a pro, while Adorno has nine stoppages within the first two rounds.
- South Philadelphia-born heavyweight sensation Sonny “The Bronco” Conto (4-0, 3 KOs) will make his fourth pro appearance in his home city against Steven Lyons (5-5, 2 KOs) in a four-rounder. Conto has sparred the likes of lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and top contender Kubrat Pulev. He last fought August 10 at the Liacouras Center, winning a decision over Guillermo Del Rio.
- Josue “The Prodigy” Vargas (14-1, 9 KOs) will look to make it nine consecutive wins versus Denver native Johnny Rodriguez (9-4-1, 6 KOs) in an eight-rounder at super lightweight.
- John” El Terrible” Bauza (13-0, 5 KOs), a 21-year-old Puerto Rican super lightweight prospect, will fight the upset-minded veteran Donald “Bulldog” Ward (11-11-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-rounder.
- Super bantamweight prospect Jeremy “Magic Hands” Adorno (2-0, 1 KO), Joseph Adorno’s younger brother, will face Misael Reyes (1-2, 0 KOs) in a four-rounder.
- Julian “Hammer Hands” Rodriguez (17-0, 11 KOs), who returned from a nearly two-year layoff with a first-round knockout on July 13, will face Leonardo Doronio (17-16-3, 11 KOs) in an eight-round super lightweight bout.
Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Peltz Boxing, tickets priced at $150, $90, $75 and $50 (not including applicable fees) are on sale now and can be purchased at the Liacouras Center Box Office, www.liacourascenter.com or charge by phone at 800-298-4200.
For more information, visit: www.toprank.com, www.espn.com/boxing; Facebook: facebook.com/trboxing; Twitter: twitter.com/trboxing.
Use the hashtag #BeterbievNail to join the conversation on social media.