Promoter Sampson Lewkowicz of Sampson Boxing proudly announces the signing of Anaheim, California-based middleweight Jonathan “El Diamante” Esquivel.

24-year-old Esquivel (11-0, 10 KOs) had a stellar amateur career. In 2016, he was the USA Olympic Trials Champion and #1-ranked American light heavyweight, winning several national and international championships along the way. He finished with an overall amateur record 117-14.

As a professional, Esquivel is a southpaw boxer/puncher with a large fan base, due to his exciting style. Always looking for opportunities to hone his craft, Esquivel has worked in camp with several world champions including Canelo Alvarez, Gennady Golovkin, David “El Bandera Roja” Benavidez, Gilbert “Zurdo” Ramirez and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillen.

“I am embracing the opportunity to work with Sampson,” said Esquivel. “With Sampson, as part of the Team, my pursuit of a world title gains a lot more momentum.”

“Sampson understands the boxing game,” said Art James, Esquivel’s manager and trainer since he was a 12-year-old amateur. “With Sampson’s experience, resourcefulness, and insight as a trusting guide to Jonathan’s career, the rise to the top and becoming a world champion is within sight.”

“Jonathan is an electrifying fighter with a strong amateur background and a style that fans around the world will love to watch,” said Sampson Lewkowicz. “I am happy to help this exciting young fighter and his team. Art James has dedicated his life to the fighters in his amateur program and this will be his first well-deserved world champion. There are very few trainers in boxing with Art’s dedication to his fighters.”
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.

ALPINE, Calif. (August 26, 2019) – All three undefeated fighters showcased last Saturday night on another installment of RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS® — Irish middleweight
Connor “The Kid Coyle, Mexican super welterweight Santiago “Somer” Dominguez and Colombian super bantamweight Brandon Valdes – each won in relatively easy fashion, fighting outdoors at Viejas Casino and Resort in Alpine, California.

The 29-year-old Coyle (11-0, 4 KOs) dropped Ramirez (21-5-2, 4 KOs) in the opening round, but the Irishman was penalized a point for pushing his opponent to the canvas. Coyle overwhelmed Ramirez when he came out of his corner for the second round forcing the pressure and he never let up. The relentless Coyle unleashed a barrage of unanswered punches, dropping Ramirez once again, when suddenly a white towel came flying out of Ramirez’ corner, signifying his cornermen had seen enough.

Coyle, fighting out of Derry, Northern Ireland, improved to 11-0 overall as a pro, winning all nine of his fights in the United States, and 2-0 fighting under of the RJJ Boxing banner.

Ramirez, who was a longtime sparring partner for Floyd Mayweather, Jr., fought for the first time since last November. He entered the ring riding a six-fight win streak, coming out on top in 10 of his last 11 fights.

Dominguez (17-0, 13 KOs), now living in Ft. Worth, TX, ripped two vicious left hooks to the body of Fabian Lyimo (23-10-2, 15 KOs), of Tanzania, who took a knee and failed to beat the 10-count in the second round of the co-featured event.

Santiago Dominguez (L) destroyed Fabian Lyimo

In the UFC FIGHT PASS opener, Colombian super bantamweight Valdes, fighting out of Los Angeles, pitched a “shutout” by winning all eight rounds on the three judges’ scorecard, in addition to dropping his opponent twice, for impressive unanimous decision victory (80-70 X 3) over his fellow countryman, Jesus Martinez (26-9, 13 KOs), the former South American super flyweight champion, who has the same head trainer as world heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz, Manny Robles..

Brandon Valdes (R) had too much for Jesus Martinez to handle

Official results below:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – MIDDLEWEIGHTS
Connor (11-0, 4 KOs), Derry, Northern Ireland, UK
WTKO (2:05)
Rafael Ramirez (21-5-2, 4 KOs), San Diego, CA

CO-FEATURE – SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS
Santiago Dominguez (17-0, 13 KOs), Cajerne, Sonora, Mexico
WKO2 (2:28)
Fabian Lyimo (23-10-2, 15 KOs), Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS
Brandon Valdes (13-0, 7 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Colombia
WDEC8 (80-70, 80-70, 80-70)
Jesus Martinez (26-9, 13 KOs), Hollywood, FL by way of Colombia

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.Viejas.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @viejascasino, @UFCFightPass
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @Viejascasinoresort, @connor-the-kid-coyle
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort
Upcoming RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS events:
Oct. 25 in Reno, Nevada.

Charlie Edwards has promised to deliver a “punch-perfect” display against his Mandatory Challenger Julio Cesar Martinez at The O2 in London this Saturday, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK, as he makes the second defence of his WBC Flyweight crown that he landed in Greenwich last year. 

The Surrey star turned on the style as he successfully defended his World title for the first time against Spain’s Angel Moreno at the Copper Box Arena in March, winning every round against his former sparring partner in a dominant display. 

Martinez earned his shot at Edwards’ title by taking out highly-rated Welshman Andrew Selby in five rounds of their Final Eliminator bout in Mexico earlier this year, and ‘El Rey’ has vowed to take the scalp of another Brit in his first professional bout outside of his homeland – but Edwards has other ideas. 

“His style works perfectly for me, it plays into my hands,” said Edwards. “He’s already told me that he’s going to knock me out. But when he doesn’t, things are going to get very tough for him and if he’s coming in with that mentality it shows he’s underrating me already and that’s not a good place to be.

“He can bang, there’s no doubt about it. You can see it just by looking at his record. We saw in his last fight against Andrew Selby that he’s powerful and can be awkward, he can rough you up, but that’s good as he’s going to bring out the best in me. I’m a lot stronger and a lot tougher now. 

“Fitness has never been an issue for me but in his fight against Selby you could tell that he was blowing a little bit and that’s maybe because he puts everything into every shot. It’s about nullifying his ability to punch hard and dragging him into the deep trenches.

“Fitness and rounds are my strongest attributes and I’m ready and looking forward to dragging him deep and for the roles switching, I will bully the bully. I am the WBC World Champion and nobody is beating me. On Saturday I am going to retain my World title with a punch-perfect performance.”

Edwards vs. Martinez features on a huge night of boxing in the Capital. 

At the top of the bill, Olympic Champions Vasiliy Lomachenko (13-1, 10 KOs) and Luke Campbell (20-2, 16 KOs) will clash for the WBC, WBA, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World titles, Joe Cordina (9-0, 7 KOs) defends his British and Commonwealth Lightweight titles against Gavin Gwynne (11-0, 1 KO) in a mouth-watering battle of Wales, rising Light-Heavy star Joshua Buatsi (11-0, 9 KOs) defends his WBA International title against Canada’s Ryan Ford (16-4, 11 KOs), James Tennyson (24-3, 20 KOs) and Atif Shafiq (21-2, 5 KOs) meet for the vacant WBA International Lightweight title, Hartlepool star Savannah Marshall (6-0, 4 KOs) makes her highly-anticipated Matchroom Boxing debut, Sheffield amateur standout Dalton Smith (2-0, 1 KO) takes part in his first six round contest and Hull Super-Featherweight prospect Connor Coghill (5-0) lands a dream slot on his former manager’s (Campbell) undercard. 

Up and coming bantamweight prospect Damien Vazquez couldn’t help but shake his head in disbelief at two of the scorecards issued in his fight against Josue Morales in Edinburgh, Texas.  One judge scored the fight a reasonable 58-56 in Vazquez’s favor but that was overruled by the other two judges who scored the fight a head scratching 57-57.  Most observers of the FS2 televised fight felt that Vazquez won at least 4 rounds of the bout.

Morales fights out of Houston, Texas but Vazquez wasn’t worried about fighting him in his home state.  Vazquez is willing to fight anyone, anytime and anywhere – as long as the officiating is done without bias.

“I thought I won that fight clearly.  I went to his state and out boxed him. I respect the judges but those scores were BS.  No way he won more than two rounds.  I am going to come back even better than this.  Everyone knows I won that fight,” said Vazquez.

The 22 year old Vazquez was fighting for the first time since his first loss as a professional to former champion Juan Carlos Payano in March. He wants to get right back in the ring as he works his way towards a world title shot.

“We are looking for the big fights.  I hope to be back soon and I will put on a show for all the fans.  I am still young and improving.  You haven’t seen the best of me yet,” Vazquez stated.

Hughie Fury believes Alexander Povetkin’s style is “perfect” for him as he prepares to take on the Russian danger man for the vacant WBA International Heavyweight title at The O2 in London this Saturday, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK. 

Aged just 24, Manchester’s Fury has been fearless in taking on the world’s Heavyweight contenders, losing a majority 12-round decision in a close and controversial WBO world title challenge to New Zealand’s Joseph Parker in 2017.

Then, in October 2018, he travelled to Bulgaria to battle former world title challenger Kubrat Pulev, losing on points in a gallant and gory IBF Final Eliminator in Sofia. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Fury is aiming to impress against former world ruler Povetkin on his big Matchroom Boxing debut.

“Povetkin is a good opponent but I believe that I belong at this level and I’m going to prove it,” said Fury. “Eddie showed me other potential opponents but at the end of the day, if you believe you’re the best then you want to fight the best – and I do. I’ve had a bit of bad luck in previous fights but this is the time for me to shine and show people what I’m made of. 

“Stylistically I think he is perfectly made for me. He is a good fighter who can’t be underestimated, and one shot can end it all in the Heavyweight division. We’ve been working on things in this camp and brought in very good sparring partners who we’ve done lots of rounds with. I’m really looking forward to this and you will see on the night how I handle Povetkin.

“There’s nothing new with him, his style has always been the same. I will be the more active man in there and you can’t substitute for being active, but at the end of the day he is a professional and he’s experienced so he’ll be ready come fight night. I’m not really bothered about his power, I’m just concentrating on my own job and doing what I’ve got to do.

“A win against Povetkin puts me right back into the mix and this is where I belong. It puts me on the platform where I can fight anyone I want and it gives me respect and that’s what I want. I want to be in command and to fight the best. I’m not the sort of fighter who wants to keep fighting journeymen. I want to fight the best and prove I belong at the top.”

Fury vs. Povetkin features on a huge night of boxing in the Capital. 

At the top of the bill, Olympic Champions Vasiliy Lomachenko (13-1, 10 KOs) and Luke Campbell (20-2, 16 KOs) will clash for the WBC, WBA, WBO and Ring Magazine Lightweight World titles, WBC Flyweight ruler Charlie Edwards (15-1, 6 KOs) makes the second defence of his crown against Mandatory Challenger Julio Cesar Martinez (14-1, 11 KOs), Joe Cordina (9-0, 7 KOs) defends his British and Commonwealth Lightweight titles against Gavin Gwynne (11-0, 1 KO) in a mouth-watering battle of Wales, rising Light-Heavy star Joshua Buatsi (11-0, 9 KOs) defends his WBA International title against Canada’s Ryan Ford (16-4, 11 KOs), James Tennyson (24-3, 20 KOs) and Atif Shafiq (21-2, 5 KOs) meet for the vacant WBA International Lightweight title, Hartlepool star Savannah Marshall (6-0, 4 KOs) makes her highly-anticipated Matchroom Boxing debut, Sheffield amateur standout Dalton Smith (2-0, 1 KO) takes part in his first six round contest and Hull Super-Featherweight prospect Connor Coghill (5-0) lands a dream slot on his former manager’s (Campbell) undercard. 

6 August 2019 – Tokyo, Japan: The largest global sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), has just announced that ONE: CENTURY ?? will now feature two full-scale World Championship events consisting of 11 bouts each.

The two events will take place on the same day with the first card scheduled in the morning and the second card in the evening. Set at the Ry?goku Kokugikan in Tokyo on 13 October, ONE: CENTURY ?? is ONE Championship’s historic 100th live event.

The first card of ONE: CENTURY ?? will be broadcast live on TNT in the United States. The second card will be broadcast globally to 140+ countries via the world’s largest television networks.

Ticket information for ONE: CENTURY ?? is available at www.onefc.com.

ONE: CENTURY ?? features four World Championship bouts, as well as three World Grand Prix Championship finals.

ONE Women’s Atomweight World Champion “Unstoppable” Angela Lee of Singapore will defend her World Title against ONE Women’s Strawweight World Champion “The Panda” Xiong Jing Nan of China.

Two-division ONE World Champion “The Burmese Python” Aung La N Sang of Myanmar will defend his ONE Light Heavyweight World Title against ONE Heavyweight World Champion Brandon “The Truth” Vera of the Philippines.

Also, ONE Bantamweight World Champion Bibiano “The Flash” Fernandes of Brazil puts his World Title on the line against Kevin “The Silencer” Belingon of the Philippines.

Newly-crowned ONE Flyweight Muay Thai World Champion Rodtang “The Iron Man” Jitmuangnon of Thailand will defend his title for the first time against Walter Goncalves of Brazil.

In the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix final, 12-time Flyweight Mixed Martial Arts World Champion Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson of the United States takes on Danny “The King” Kingad of the Philippines.

In the ONE Lightweight World Grand Prix final, multiple-time Lightweight Mixed Martial Arts World Champion Eddie “The Underground King” Alvarez of the United States faces Turkish sensation Saygid Guseyn Arslanaliev.

In the ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Grand Prix final, Giorgio “The Doctor” Petrosyan of Italy battles Samy “AK47” Sana of France for the inaugural ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Title and a chance to take home the coveted US $1 million grand prize.

ONE Championship aims to unite the world in celebration of martial arts, Asia’s greatest cultural treasure. For the first time in history, the Shooto and Pancrase organizations will work together to raise Japanese martial arts to unprecedented new heights.

In a series of Japan Super Bouts, World Champions from both Shooto and Pancrase square off in a never-before-seen showdown between the two martial arts organizations.

In a lightweight contest, Shooto Lightweight World Champion Koshi “Luxor” Matsumoto is scheduled to face Pancrase Lightweight World Champion Takasuke Kume.

In a bantamweight showdown, Shooto Bantamweight World Champion Shoko Sato will take on Pancrase Bantamweight World Champion Rafael Silva.

In a welterweight bout, Shooto Middleweight World Champion Hernani Perpetuo goes head-to-head with Pancrase Welterweight World Champion Hiroyuki Tetsuka.

Lastly, in a strawweight contest, former ONE Strawweight World Champion and Shooto Flyweight World Champion Yosuke Saruta battles Pancrase Strawweight World Champion Daichi Kitakata.

Other noteworthy matchups include Japanese mixed martial arts veteran Yushin “Thunder” Okamitaking on Malaysian former ONE World Title challenger Agilan “Alligator” Thani, Senzo Ikeda going to battle with ONE Warrior Series contract winner Lito “Thunder Kid” Adiwang, former ONE Lightweight World Champion Shinya “Tobikan Judan” Aoki facing off with former ONE Featherweight World Champion Honorio “The Rock” Banario, and many more.

‘El Animal’ Filip Hrgovi? (9-0, 7 KOs) brutally dismantled Mario Heredia (16-7-1, 13 KOs) earning a third round TKO victory at the Cum Hermosillo in Mexico, to defend his WBC International heavyweight title.

Twelve thousand Mexican fight fans got to witness ‘El Animal’ in action as the highly ranked Croatian sensation took just three rounds to dismantle the experienced Heredia, with a thudding right hand knocking Heredia onto the canvas before the referee waved off proceedings. 

“The crowd was absolutely fantastic, it was an honour to fight for the Mexican fans tonight,” said the undefeated Hrgovi?. “Step by step I’m climbing to the top. I was asked what I think about fighting on the Anthony Joshua card in Saudi Arabia. I’m grateful for the opportunities and I’ll fight anyone. I’m expecting a big name so I can show the world who I am.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland was delighted with his fighter’s performance and echoed Hrgovi?’s big fight aspirations. 

“Filip Hrgovi? is the most exciting heavyweight of the new-era,” said Sauerland. “It won’t be long before he gets his opportunity to put his name in the history books.”

“Filip has taken another stop on his road to success and people are now sitting up and taking notice,” said Sauerland. “Filip is the future of the heavyweight division, and it’s just a matter of time until he gets his shot.” 

Hermosillo, Mexico (August 25, 2019) Undefeated Uzbek Super Lightweight Shakhram ‘Wonder Boy’ Giyasov improved to 9-0 with a stunning first-round knockout (0:41) of former world champion Darleys Perez, (34-5-2, 22 KOs), of San Pedro de Uraba, Colombia on Saturday night at the Centro de Usos Multiples in Hermosillo, Mexico. The knockout, Giyasov’s seventh as a professional, came from a tremendous left hook to Perez’s jaw which dropped the Colombian hard to the canvas where he was unable to beat the count to continue. The victory was telecast on DAZN in the United States and Sky Sports in the United Kingdom.

“I felt great coming into the fight, we had a fantastic training camp and I saw the opening and went for it,” said Giyasov, who defended his WBA International Super Lightweight Title. “I’m ready to fight again soon and want to face the toughest competition possible. Thanks very much to my promotional teams, World of Boxing and Matchroom Boxing.”

Said trainer Joel Diaz, “Shakhram has worked very hard over the last few months since his decision over Emanuel Taylor. We wanted him to be more relaxed and work more on his technique and that clearly helped him achieve this knockout. I’m obviously thrilled with his performance.” Giyasov trains in Coachella, CA under the renowned Diaz.

“Shakhram was an outstanding amateur and has adjusted well to the professional ranks,“ said manager Vadim Kornilov. “With this performance we look forward to bigger fights in the near future for him.”

Prior to turning professional in March 2018, Giyasov had an extraordinary amateur career culminating with a Silver Medal representing Uzbekistan at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janiero.

Brandon Figueroa retained the WBA Interim Super Bantamweight title with a 4th round stoppage over Javier Chacon at The Bert Ogden Arena in Edinburg, Texas.

Figueroa dominated the bout, and in round four landed a crushing left that sent Chacon to the canvas. Chacon tried to get up, but could not beat the count.

Figueroa, 122 lbs of Weslaco TX is 20-0 with 15 knockouts. Chacon, 120 1/4 lbs of Las Heras, ARG 29-5-1.

In a battle of undefeated super bantamweights, Stephen Fulton stopped Isaac Avelar in round six of their scheduled 10-round bout.

In round three, Avelar began to bleed over his right eye.

In round six, Fulton landed a crushing left to the body shot that sent Avelar down for the count at 1:26

Fulton, 124 lbs of Philadelphia is 17-0 with eight knockouts. Avelar, 123 3/4 lbs of Mexico is 16-1.

Omar Juarez remained undefeated by stopping Gino De La Paz in the 1st round of their scheduled four-round junior lightweight bout.

Juarez blasted De La Paz with some hard shots before landing a booming right that sent De La Paz crashing to the canvas, and the fight was stopped at 1:40.

Juarez. 140 3/4 lbs of Brownsville, TX is 5-0 with three knockouts. De La Paz, 139 3/4 lbs of McAllen, TX is 2-3-1.

Jaime Arboleda stopped Victor Betencourt in round one of their scheduled 10-round junior lightweight bout.

In round one, Arboledo dropped Betancourt with hard body shots. Arboleda finished the fight with an uppercut to the chin that sent Betencourt to a knee, and the fight was stopped at 2:32.

Arboleda, 130 lbs of Curuncu, PAN is 15-1 with 13 knockouts. Betancourt, 130 lbs of Mexico is 26-3.

Sergey Kovalev retained the WBO Light Heavyweight title with a thrilling 11th round stoppage over previously undefeated mandatory challenger Anthony Yarde at Traktor Sport Palace in Chelyabinsk, Russia.

Kovalev boxed well over the 1st half of the fight, and got out to an early lead.

In round seven, Yarde started working the body. The very next round, Yarde had Kovalev in serious trouble as he rocked the champion with several hard shots. Kovalev was lucky to not have been put down. Kovalev got back to boxing and started to break Yarde down.

In round 10, Kovalev began to hurt Yarde. In the next frame, Yarde looked exhausted, and Kovalev landed some more thudding blows, and finally put Yarde down with a thumping jab that ended the fight at 2:04.

Kovalev is now 34-3-1 with 29 knockouts. Yarde of England is 18-1.

Former cruiserweight champion Ilunga Makabu won a 12-round majority decision over previously undefeated undefeated Alexander Papin in a action-filled fight

Both guys landed big shots, with Makabu hurting Papin in round 11. In round 12, Makabu dropped Papin with a straight left hand. Papin wobbled Makabu in the closing seconds of the bout, but it was too little-too late as Makabu won by scores of 115-113 twice and 113-113.

Makabu, 198 3/4 lbs of Congo is 26-2. Papin, 199 1/2 lbs of Russia is 11-1.

Papin outlanded Makabu 212-209.

Chelyabinsk, Russia: The much-anticipated match-up between three-time light heavyweight champion and current WBO Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (33-3-1, 28 KOs) and mandatory challenger Anthony Yarde (18-0, 17 KOs) is a modern-day “Clash of the Titans.” Both fighters have reputations as hard-hitting punchers. Kovalev brings to the table his extensive resume which includes his 15 consecutive world title fights, his ability box as well as punch and his devastating jab. Yarde has an impressive 94% knockout-to-win ratio, a nine-year age advantage and the hubris that accompanies a nearly perfect professional record. These two warriors will square off in Kovalev’s home town of Chelyabinsk, Russia tonight at the Traktor Arena. Below is the scouting report for this exciting match-up:

Category
Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev
Anthony Yarde
Age
36
27
Record
33-3-1 (28 KOs)
18-0-0 (17 KOs)
Strength
Experience and power are the two biggest assets for the champion coming into this bout. He also has arguably one of the most effective jabs in boxing when he commits to using it.
The challenger is young, athletic, and just hitting his prime. He has ferocious power in both hands and fights with extreme confidence.
Weakness
Kovalev needs to tidy up his defense for this bout, Yarde is very heavy-handed and can end the fight with one shot if landed clean.
Yarde is very inexperienced. This will be his toughest fight to date and he has yet see the championship rounds.
Experience
Krusher has been competing exclusively in title fights since 2013. This will be his 16th consecutive title fight.
This will be Yarde’s first shot at a world title and by-far the biggest fight of his career. This is just his second time fighting outside of the UK; he will be in legitimate hostile territory for the first time in his young career.
Power
Kovalev has always been known as one of the biggest punchers in the sport. He has knocked down and stopped fighters that have never been stopped; including current Interim WBA titleholder Jean Pascal on two separate occasions.
Anthony has made a name for himself as a power-puncher. He has stopped his last 16 opponents and has quickly established himself as major threat in the light heavyweight division because of it.
Speed
Sergey has a quick jab and throws rigorous combinations behind it.
Yarde has good speed and likes to fight at close-range, unleashing vicious shots to both the head and the body.
Endurance
Although Krusher is known for knocking out his opposition, he has proven numerous times that he has the gas tank to go the distance, including his last fight where he earned a unanimous decision win over Eleider Alvarez to recapture his title.
Anthony’s endurance is still to be determined, he has knocked out 17 of his 18 opponents and has yet to see the eighth round.

Accuracy
Kovalev has a pin-point accurate jab which allows him to deliver thunderous shots behind it.

The challenger does not waste shots; he likes to fight at close-range and deliver as much punishment as his opponents can withstand.
Defense
Sergey is an offensive-minded fighter who stays in attack mode from start-to-finish. When he commits to his jab it is very difficult for his opposition to get going offensively.
Up to this point in his career, Yarde has been all power and offense. He has not had to utilize any real defensive tactics other than the shoulder-roll which he has shown in some recent fights.
Chin
Kovalev has been stopped twice in his career, most-recently in his first bout with Eleider Alvarez in August of last year.
We are going to find out on August 24th just how durable the challenger’s chin is; he has yet to be in any real danger with any of his previous opposition.
Style
Krusher is not a fighter who is looking for a decision win, he likes to use a sharp jab to create openings and opportunities to break his opponents down both physically and mentally.
Anthony is a strong and heavy-handed fighter who wastes very little time once the first bell rings. He fights with utter confidence and lets his power do the talking.

Crowd Support
Chelyabinsk, Russia is where the champion grew up, the crowd will be overwhelmingly pro-Kovalev.
UK fans are loyal so it would be no surprise if some Yarde fans make the trip. However, he should still have a significant disadvantage coming into hostile enemy territory.
Intangibles
Considering Yarde’s power, this may be the closest thing Sergey has seen in his career to fighting a duplicate of himself. That is why this fight is extremely risky by the champion. However, Sergey has taken risks his entire career. He understands that as long as he has the man to beat in the light heavyweight division, he will have a target on his back. He wants to continue to fight the best in the world.
Anthony Yarde has a rare opportunity to prove to the world that he can handle the pressure of fighting the best light heavyweight in his own backyard. He has spent almost his entire career fighting in the UK, so to embrace this fight in the champion’s hometown speaks volumes regarding his confidence and just how badly he wants the title.
The Match-Up
Will Yarde be able to handle the presser of fighting outside his comfort zone in the UK?
Will Kovalev be able to handle and stay away from Yarde’s power?
Will Yarde be able to handle going around with Kovalev’s jab, combinations, and power?
Will Kovalav be able to handle the presser of fighting in his hometown for the first time in his career?

According to Main Events matchmaker, Jolene Mizzone, “This is a great match-up, there is so much to say about both guys and their willingness to move forward with this fight. We all know it was a mandatory, but we have seen guys duck these mandatory fights before. The fact that Kovalev was willing to give a young up-and-coming Yarde the opportunity to fight for his WBO Light Heavyweight Title and Yarde was willing to go into Kovalev’s backyard to fight him, to me that says a lot about the mentality of both fighters. I think this fight will be nothing less than fireworks!”

Hundreds of fight fans were in attendance at the Galerias Mall in Hermosillo as Filip Hrgovi? (8-0, 6 KOs) and his opponent Mario Heredia (16-6-1, 13 KOs) weighed in, ahead of their showdown tonight at the Cum Hermosillo, Mexico.

Hrgovi? defended his WBC International Heavyweight title against America’s Gregory Corbin (15-2, 9 KOs) in May 2019 in Maryland, USA and now defends his title once more against Mario Heredia, from Chihuahua, Mexico. 

The undefeated 27-year-old Croatian has highlighted his respect for the Mexican legends and intends to honour his heroes with a knockout, while Heredia is determined to take advantage of the opportunity of a lifetime. 

WBC International Heavyweight Title – 10 Rounds

Filip Hrgovic – 110,5 kg
Mario Heredia – 127,5 kg

Filip Hrgovi? against Mario Heredia will be broadcasted live around the world including on RTL in Croatia, DAZN in America and Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. 

Boston, Massachusetts (August 23, 2019): After last month’s sold out Murphys Boxing’s debut at Encore Boston Harbor, the brand new 2.6 billion dollar resort casino located on Boston’s waterfront, another capacity crowd watched NABA Super Featherweight Champion, Abraham Nova (16-0, 12 KOs) stop Mexico’s Luis Castillo (20-4, 15 KOs) in the first round of a scheduled 10 round title fight.

After a tentative first round that saw both fighters land combinations, with just seconds left in the opening stanza, Nova sent Castillo to the ropes with a hard jab and then dropped the Mexican fighter with a textbook jab and cross. Castillo was hurt badly and could not beat the ten count.

“It was much shorter fight than I expected but I don’t get paid for overtime so… I’m ok with it.”, laughed Nova, the flashy young contender who is now ranked #6 in the world by the WBA.

As for his thoughts on a title shot in the red hot division that includes champions like Gervonta Davis, Tevin Farmer and Andrew Cancio, ‘Super Nova’ who hails from Albany, New York was confident in his abilities to beat any of the current belt holders.

“As soon as I get the call, I’m ready. I’m not picking or calling out any of them, I just want a title shot. If I had to fight all of them at the same time to get a belt, I would. No matter which one I get, I will win a world championship next year.”

Nova’s promoter, Ken Casey is on board with his fighter’s plans for a title shot next year.

“We’re gonna have him fight in Belgium in December on the undercard of the WBA cruiserweight title fight. After that we want a title shot but if that doesn’t come at the start of the new year, we would go to Albany and do a show in his hometown. He deserves it and he has a huge fan base there. Then we should absolutely be in position to challenge for a world title.”
In the co-main event, Murphys Boxing’s Carlos Gongora (17-0, 13 KOs) stopped the usually durable Alan Zavala (15-4, 13 KOs) in the first round of a middleweight bout scheduled for 10 rounds. All it took was a 4 punch head shot combination that landed flush and the Mexican who fights out of San Diego hit the canvas and was unable to beat the count. Gongora, a former Olympian from Ecuador, entered the world rankings at #15 in the WBA last month and after the surprisingly quick knockout is looking to stay on the fast track and return to the ring again this fall.

In other action on the card…

New York welterweight prospect, Brian Ceballo (10-0, 5 KOs) kept his undefeated streak intact against Luis Edward Flores (24-14, 20 KOs) by landing a brutal body shot in the fourth round of a scheduled 8 round bout that left the veteran fighter withering in pain on the canvas.

Popular local prospect Khiry Todd (9-1, 7 KOs) dropped and stopped Alex Duarte (14-8-1, 11 KOs) in the first round of a scheduled 6 round welterweight bout. Todd, who hails from nearby Lynn, Massachusetts, is one of the best fighters out of the exciting New England welterweight picture. Locally the division is home to the likes of promising young fighters like James Perella, Anthony Velazquez, Mike Ohan Jr., Joe Farina, Derrick Whitley Jr., Brandon Higgins and more who together would make for an amazing regional tournament in 2020.

One of those previously mentioned welterweights, and the busiest of the bunch, former amateur standout, James Perella (5-0, 4 KOs) stopped Jose Aubel (8-6, 7 KOs) in the fourth round of a scheduled 4 round welterweight bout. It was Perella’s 5th victory in just 5 months as a professional. Up against a bizarre height disadvantage, the game fighter from Argentina tried hard but could not get inside Perella’s massive height and reach advantage. Aubel’s corner complained vehemently to officials after the stoppage, rightly claiming it was a behind the head blow that caused the final knockdown but that didn’t take away the fact Perella dominated every second of the fight. The lanky southpaw from nearby Mansfield continues to build a following of supportive fans and has shown considerable improvement in each of his five fights.

The night was rounded out by 5 different fighters making their pro debuts, 4 of them against each other, in fan friendly battles that proved Boston is knee deep in a boxing resurgence that has seen fighters enter the pro ranks on virtually every card held in the city this year.

Medford, Massachusetts’ Greg Bono (0-1) brought out a massive crowd to see the Fu Manchu mustached brawler lose an incredibly close 4 round unanimous decision to Brian Urday (1-0) who hails from Brockton, Massachusetts. The junior middleweight slugfest had the crowd on it’s feet for the entire fight and most in attendance felt it was a clear draw.

Decorated amateur, Jonathan Depina (1-0, 1 KO), who hails from Boston, stopped Michigan’s Robbie Thomas (0-2) in the 4th round of a scheduled 4 round bout in the lightweight division. Thomas proved to be a tough opponent for a debut fighter to face but Depina’s superior speed ultimately proved the difference and he forced the referee to step in to stop the fight after throwing a barrage of punches that a tiredThomas had no answer for.

In the opening attraction, Boston’s Aaron Trecell Smith (0-0-1) and Stoneham, Massachusetts’ James Perkins (0-0-1) fought to a majority draw in an crowd pleasing back and forth 4 round cruiserweight slug fest that left both fighters exhausted but all smiles after the fight.

On the ever important musical note, in a night that saw ring walk tunes range from self help spoken word to 80s hair metal to Brazilian techno to a live rapper, special kudos to Smith who came out to “Iko, Iko” by the late Dr. John. Smith, who originally hails from Louisiana, wanted to pay tribute to the musical legend who recently passed away.

It was a classy soundtrack to kick off another amazing night of Murphys Boxing at Encore Boston Harbor, easily the best new venue for boxing in the entire country and Murphys Boxing founder, Ken Casey is already in talks for another event at the resort casino later this year.

“Encore is just an incredible venue and the fans love coming here. We’ve already had two incredible shows here in the past month. We’re gonna come back at the end of the year, in late November or early December, for a massive card that we will be announcing soon.”
ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Abraham Nova, Charles Foster, Mark DeLuca, Carlos Gongora, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan and undefeated prospects like William Foster III and Luis Arcon Diaz and more!

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – MIDDLEWEIGHTS (10)*
Connor “The Kid” Coyle (10-0, 3 KOs), Derry, Northern Ireland, UK 159.2 lbs.
Rafael “The Pride of San Diego” Ramirez (21-4-2, 4 KOs), San Diego, CA 158.2 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – SUPER WELTERWEIGHTS (8)*
Santiago “Somer” Dominguez (16-0, 12 KOs), Cajerne, Sonora, Mexico 153.8 lbs.
Fabian Lyimo (23-9-2, 15 KOs), Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania 150.2 lbs.

SUPER BANTAMWEIGHTS (8)*
Brandon Valdes (12-0, 7 KOs), Los Angeles, CA by way of Colombia 121.4 lbs.
Jesus Martinez (26-8, 13 KOs), Hollywood, FL by way of Colombia 122.8 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (6)
Adrian Gutierrez (7-0-1, 4 KOs), Chulas Vista, CA 147.2 lbs.
German “Tin Tan” Valdez (4-5-1, 1 KO), Aqua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico 147 lbs.

SUPER FLYWEIGHTS (4)
Dilan Miranda (4-2, 3 KOs), San Diego, CA by way of Mexico 115 lbs.
Ming Freeman (1-4-1, 1 KO), Los Angeles, CA 115.4 lbs.

(*streaming live on UFC FIGHT PASS)

FACT SHEET

WHAT: RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS®

PROMOTER: Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions

WHEN: Saturday, August 24, 2019

WHERE: Viejas Casino and Resort, Alpine, CA

LIVE STREAM: Main card to be streamed live and exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT.

ANNOUNCING TEAM: Sean Wheelock and James “Smitty” Smith

RING ANNOUNCER:Barry Eget

TICKETS:$65.00, $55.00 and $45.00 and available to purchase by going online at www.viejas.com or fight night at the box office.

OTHER: Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first bout starts at 5:30 p.m. PT, and UFC FIGHT PASS commences at 7 p.m. PT / 10 p.m. ET.

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.Viejas.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @viejascasino, @UFCFightPass
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @Viejascasinoresort
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort
Upcoming RJJ Boxing on UFC FIGHT PASS events:
Aug. 24 at Viejas Casino and Resort in Alpine, California.

ANTHONY YARDE will take on WBO World Light Heavyweight Champion Sergey Kovalev on Saturday night in Chelyabinsk, Russa live on BT Sport 2 from 5pm.

The fighters are expected to begin their ring walks at 7.30pm just after the Premier League football game between Liverpool and Arsenal on the same day.

Yarde (18-0, 17KOs) and Kovalev (33-3-1, 28KOs) weighed in today.

**Media are welcome to download a video of today’s weigh in and face off here, with credit to BT Sport.**

**Media can download photographs from today’s weigh in here, with credit to RCC Boxing**

Here are the official weights from today’s weigh in.

Sergey Kovalev (Champion) – 174.6lbs

Anthony Yarde (Challenger) – 173.9lb

Sergey Kovalev v Anthony Yarde for the WBO world light heavyweight title is live and exclusive on BT Sport 2 from 5pm on Saturday with ringwalks expected at 7.30pm.

‘El Animal’ Filip Hrgovi? (8-0, 6 KOs) is excited to put on a show for the Mexican fans as he takes on the in-form Mario Heredia (16-6-1, 13 KOs) in Hermosillo tomorrow night, live on RTL in Croatia, DAZN in America and Sky Sports in the UK.

Having made his US debut at the MGM National Harbour in Washington on May 25, the man known as ‘El Animal’ is looking forward to fighting in front of Mexican fans for the first time as he takes another step towards a World title.

Hrgovi?, a 2016 Olympic bronze medalist, has beaten three Americans in his last three outings and is hoping to channel the notorious Mexican fighting spirit and give the fans a night to remember.

“I respect the Mexican people, I like this country for all the warriors that they have given the sport of boxing,” said Hrgovi?. “People like Morales, Barrera, Cháves, Canelo and a lot more. I’m excited to fight on this event and on DAZN.”

Hrgovi?’s Mexican opponent Mario Heredia, is coming off a victory against former WBC World Champion Samuel Peter and is hoping to impress in front of his home crowd.

“Finally I have got the opportunity that I was looking for, for years,” said Heredia. “This is the fight of my life and I will not waste it. I have never lost here in Hermosillo and I will continue with that mark.”

The Croatian heavyweight sensation endeared himself to the Mexican public whilst wearing a sombrero at Thursday’s press conference, and promoter Nisse Sauerland feels it won’t be long before Hrgovi? is a global household name.

“Filip is already a superstar in Croatia,” said Sauerland. “Fighting in different territories helps to showcase Filip’s abilities and personality to as many fans as possible. It won’t be long before he is fighting for a World title, maybe against Mexico’s own, Andy Ruiz”

Filip Hrgovi? against Mario Heredia will be broadcasted live around the world including living on RTL in Croatia, DAZN in America and Germany and Sky Sports in the UK.

New York, NY (August 23, 2019) Former amateur standout Fazliddin Meliboev, from Kokand, Uzbekistan, newly signed to DiBella Entertainment, will make his highly anticipated professional debut against Toledo, OH native Marcus Washington (4-1, 4 KOs) in a six-round welterweight clash next Thursday, August 29, on the Broadway Boxing card from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT. The featured bout is part of a sensational card live streamed exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS®, the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports, starting 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.

Meliboev will be trained in the pro ranks by Ravshan Khodjaev, one of the National Uzbekistan Team’s head trainers, and co-promoted by DiBella Entertainment and Fight Promotions Inc.

“I’m thrilled to add an outstanding amateur like Fazliddin Meliboev to the DiBella Entertainment roster,” said Lou DiBella, President of DiBella Entertainment. “At only 22 years old, Faz has a bright future and, together with Fight Promotions Inc., we will work hard to provide him every opportunity to achieve his goals. Fans in attendance at Foxwoods Resort Casino for next week’s stacked Broadway Boxing card and those watching the UFC Fight Pass stream will get to see an exciting amateur star as he begins on his path toward a world title.”

“I’m thrilled to work with DiBella Entertainment on the start of my professional career. I know that they can provide me with the opportunities to reach my goal of becoming a world champion,” said Meliboev. “Thursday night is very important to me and I’m very excited to make my pro debut in the United States and show the fans my skills.”

Fighting in Uzbekistan, Meliboev was a 2015 National Champion in the country’s acclaimed amateur program. The southpaw also won silver medals at the 2017 Great Silk Way Tournament in Baku, Azerbaijan, and the 2016 Chinggis Khan Cup, which took place in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Additionally, he also secured the bronze medal at the famed 2014 Asian Youth Boxing Championships in Bangkok, Thailand. Fighting in the World Series of Boxing, Meliboev won all three of his bouts.

Headlining the Broadway Boxing event on August 29, featherweight contenders Toka Kahn “T Nice” Clary (26-2, 18 KOs), a native of Liberia, now fighting out of Providence, RI, and Irvin Gonzalez (12-1, 9 KOs), of Worcester, MA, will collide in a 10-round contest.

In a 10-round women’s world championship bout, Alicia “The Empress” Napoleon-Espinosa (11-1, 6 KOs), of Lindenhurst, NY, will defend her WBA Super Middleweight World Title for the second time, facing undefeated contender Schemelle Baldwin (3-0-1, 2 KOs), of Newark, DE.

Priced at $125, $75 and $45, advance tickets for Broadway Boxing can be purchased online through the Foxwoods Box Office HERE, in person or by calling 800-200-2882. The venue is located at 350 Trolley Line Blvd., Mashantucket, CT, 06338. Doors will open to the Fox Theater at 6:30 p.m. with the first fight scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Broadway Boxing is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and is presented by Nissan of Queens, Azad Watches, OPTYX, Christos Steak House and Gagliardi Insurance.

Gennadiy ‘GGG’ Golovkin believes his clash with Sergiy Derevyanchenko will be a classic when they meet for the vacant IBF World Middleweight title on Saturday October 5 at Madison Square Garden in New York, live on DAZN.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW FROM MSG.COM
Golovkin (39-1-1 35 KOs) and Derevyanchenko (13-1 10 KOs) met at a press conference at the mecca of boxing yesterday and both men stated their excitement for what promises to be a thrill a minute battle for the belt that Golovkin used to hold, and that Derevyanchenko has challenged for.

Former unified king Golovkin is gunning to regain the crown he held for three years as the Kazakh star targets returning to World champion status and meetings with the other champions at 160lbs.

Derevyanchenko has plans to derail that journey though and came close to landing the IBF strap himself in October at the Hulu Theater at MSG, being edged out on a split decision against Golovkin’s old foe Daniel Jacobs.

“I’m so excited,” said Golovkin. “First of all, I’m happy to be back home, my second home. Thank you to my family at MSG for always supporting me. Of course, I’m very excited right now. Right now, I work with the best people from boxing.

“I have the best opponent, Sergiy. I’ve know him for a long time and he’s a very good fighter. This is a real fight. I’m a little bit scared because he’s good. I know his team is very strong. And I’m scared because he looks good. He looks strong. He feels it’s his time right now. Maybe – this is boxing, nobody knows. So if you want to watch a real show, a real fight, come to MSG on October 5 or watch live on DAZN.”

“I’m really excited and happy to be at Madison Square Garden,” said Derevyanchenko. “Thank you to my team, and I want to give thanks to Gennadiy Golovkin for the opportunity as well. I know exactly who I’m getting in the ring with. He’s the former Middleweight champion of the world, one of the best fighters in the world, but his time is coming to an end and I want to be the one that makes that time come to an end.”

MORE QUOTES FROM THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Eddie Hearn, president, Matchroom Boxing USA

“Gennadiy is for me the most entertaining, most dangerous fighter in world boxing. Is there a fighter in boxing that gives more value for money than Gennadiy Golobkin? I’m not sure, I haven’t found him yet.”

“He may look like a very calm individual, we know he’s a lovely man, but what a fearsome fighter. For me, it’s a pleasure to be a part of Team GGG now, a man that we’ve admired from a distance for a long time, become one of the biggest names in the sport of boxing. As an individual, he carries himself with so much class. He’s a role model for the next generation of fighters coming through. He has integrity, he has honor. And when you look at him in the eyes, it tells you one thing – I love to fight, and I will fight any man.”

“There’s been a lot of speculation recently about who he’s going to fight. Is it going to be Canelo? The thing that’s most important in a fighter’s career is to take control of your career. Have a strategy, have a plan, don’t worry about other people. And right now, we have a plan with Gennadiy’s career that’s extremely exciting to dominate the division and it starts on October 5 at the Mecca of boxing.”

“What a 10 months it’s been for DAZN. We’re 10 months in, that’s it, and we have by far the strongest stable of fighters in America. It’s not even close.”

Joseph Markowski, DAZN EVP, North America

“It’s been a busy summer for DAZN to build out our year-end, one that is without question the most impressive schedule in fight sports. This fight on October 5^th, the second of Gennadiy’s long term deal with us, will be the start of what I see as the season of fight sports. A long-term schedule of high quality fights, best fighters against best fighters, delivering tremendous value for fight fans.

“It’s a tremendous fight itself, and it’s only a part of our backend year end schedule that’s going to be great for fight fans and sports fansin general.”

Keith Connolly, manager of Sergiy Derevyanchenko

“Wow what an amazing opportunity for Sergiy. 10 months ago we were in this building where he fought danny Jacobs, and he lost a very close decision. He and his wife were very heartbroken. I made them one promise that night, that I would do everything in my power to get them another opportunity. 10 months later, because of a lot of maneuvering, he’s back in this same position he was 10 months ago,. He’s got a second opportunity to be under the bright lights and really change his life. I think he’s got a really good chance. I’m a huge fan of GGG, but his will be the second time in my life that I‘m rooting against him. Sergiy’s got a real chance. He might only be 13-1 as a pro but he has over 400 amateur fights and won 390 of them. This is definitely an entertaining fight.”

Andre Rozier, trainer of Sergiy Derevyanchenko

“He cannot win this time. He cannot be victorious. The Technician is ready, he’s willing, he’s able. He’s putting his best foot forward. Our team is no longer fragmented. The squad is ready and we plan to be the middleweight champion of the world on October 5. Sergiy is a quiet man but you have to watch the quiet ones – they’re the most dangerous.”

Lou DiBella, president of DiBella Entertainment

“We knew that Gennadiy knew Sergiy, they’ve known each other for years, when they were both amateurs. Right now he’s moving on in his life and fighting the best middleweight in the world available to him, and I believe that’s what Sergiy is. I’m going to tell you, this is one of the three hardest fights GGG has ever walked into the ring for, one of the three best opponents GGG has ever faced as a pro. I think this is a great fight for fight fans and I promise you that between GGG Promotions and Eddie and myself, the rest of the card is going to live up to the main event and we’re going to have a night of boxing that’s one of the best on DAZN’s schedule for the rest of the year.”

Tom Loeffler, GGG Promotions

“He had that historic championship run. We’re looking forward to him winning the IBF title on October 5 to start another championship run in the middleweight division. He hasn’t lost a fight in the ring; he might have lost on the score cards, but we’re not looking back at that. We’re looking forward. He’s looking forward to Derevyanchenko.”

 Johnathon Banks, trainer of Gennadiy Golovkin

“It’s an honor to go against this guy [Rozier]. I’ve been saying that since I was 15 in the amateurs. I have nothing but the utmost respect for this guy. That’s to me, that’s one of the things that’s going to make this fight one of the biggest fights of GGG’s career. I know the pedigree that Rozier has and good fighters always surround himself with him because they know he always takes fighters to another level. This fight will be a good fight. Tune in on DAZN, come to the Garden, this is a fight you don’t want to miss. Both guys are fighting for a chance to be a world champion. One is a repeat, one is a first-timer, but it doesn’t matter, the playing field is completely even, completely level. Both guys are going to put everyone on the line for this fight to win this world title.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. (Aug. 23, 2019): A historic fight for women’s boxing will take place on the Munguia vs. Allotey undercard as Franchon “The Heavy-Hitting Diva” Crews-Dezurn (5-1, 2 KOs) defends her WBC Super Middleweight World Championship against WBC Heavyweight World Champion Alejandra “La Tigre” Jimenez (12-0-1, 9 KOs). The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 14 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif. and will be streamed live on DAZN.

As previously announced, Jaime Munguia (33-0, 26 KOs) of Tijuana, Mexico will defend his WBO Junior Middleweight World Title against African warrior Patrick Allotey (40-3, 30 KOs) in the 12-round main event. The co-main event will feature Ryan Garcia (18-0, 15 KOs) and Avery “A-Plus” Sparrow (10-1, 3 KOs) in a 10-round lightweight fight.

Crews-Dezurn is a native of Virginia Beach, Va. who currently lives in Baltimore, Md. She is a former amateur standout who competed at a national and international level. In 2016, Crews-Dezurn made her professional debut against two-time Olympian Claressa “T-Rex” Shields, who was also debuting at the time. Though she lost a tough and close battle, Crews-Dezurn would score three more victories before capturing the WBC Super Middleweight World Title via 10-round majority decision against Maricela “La Diva” Cornejo.Crews-Dezurn is coming off her first win as an official Golden Boy fighter, which against Kayla Williams via technical knockout in June of this year.

“I look forward to my first WBC title defense with Golden Boy on Sept 14, a boxing holiday,” said Crews-Dezurn. “I’ll have the opportunity to once again prove myself as a fearless champion who has integrity and passion for the sport of boxing. I know Los Angeles has a deep Mexican culture in boxing that I respect, and a lot of people may root against me, but know my goal is to win while continuing to raise the profile for all female boxers. This is my dream. I’ve dedicated my teen years and entire adult life for this, and I won’t take it for granted.”

Jimenez is a native of Mexico City, Mexico who, after a short amateur career, debuted as a professional in October 2014. After only five bouts, she captured the WBC Heavyweight World Title with a majority decision victory against Martha Salazar. Since then, she has remained undefeated and has even dropped down in weight in order to become a two division world champion.

“Because I believe myself and that I am the best, I will win the world title,
said Jimenez. “I am the creator of my destiny, and with all the work I have done, I will win that title. Because I was born to make history and will continue doing so over and over again, I will be world champion again. Crews-Dezurn came at the right time to feel the real Mexican power, and “La Tigre” will show you.”

“Ruthless” Romero Duno (20-1, 15 KOs) of Los Angeles, Calif. will face Ivan “Stiker” Delgado (13-2-2, 6 KOs) of Los Angeles, Calif. in a 10-round defense of his NABO Lightweight Title.

Undefeated prospect Joselito “El Huracan” Velazquez (10-0, 8 KOs) of Cancun, Mexico will return in an eight-round flyweight battle.

Diego Pacheco (4-0, 3 KOs) of Los Angeles, Calif. will participate in a four-round lightweight fight.

Alejandro “Pin Pon” Reyes of Mexicali, Mexico will make his professional debut against Jorge Padron (3-4, 3 KOs) of Sonora, Mexico in a four-round lightweight bout.

Opponents for Velazquez and Pacheco will be announced shortly.

Munguia vs. Allotey is a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight Championship presented by Golden Boy in association with Zanfer Promotions. The event is sponsored by Tecate, “THE OFFICIAL BEER OF BOXING,” Hennessy “Never Stop. Never Settle,” and Orange Crush. The event will take place Saturday, Sept. 14 at Dignity Health Sports Park and will be streamed live on DAZN.

Tickets for Munguia vs. Allotey are on sale and are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges. Tickets can be purchased at goldenboytickets.com, https://www.axs.com/, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at Dignity Health Sports Park Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

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

Photos and videos are available for download by clicking here or copying and pasting the link: http://bit.ly/MunguiaAllotey into a browser. Credit must be provided to Golden Boy for any photo and/or video usage.

By Norm Frauenheim-

Sunday represents a sad anniversary. John McCain, statesman and soldier, died a year ago on August 25 on his Arizona ranch, about 100 miles north of an NHL arena in nearby Phoenix where ESPN was about to televise a fight card.

An opening bell was followed by 10 bells, a mournful memorial for a former amateur fighter who was called “the boxing Senator” by Bob Arum. McCain’s death wasn’t a surprise. His battle with cancer was public. And painful.

Yet, the timing was almost haunting. He died, 81, at about the same time young fighters, kids, on the undercard began to make that long walk from the dressing room to the ring. McCain identified with them. He had been one of them at the Naval Academy.

Later in life, he fought for them, a powerful advocate for young men from tough streets who knew that only their fists would fight for them.

McCain wrote, lobbied and pushed through the Muhammad Ali Act, which was introduced in 1999 and enacted in 2000.

McCain is gone, but the Ali Act is still there. It’s a small part of McCain’s many-sided legacy, seemingly made more powerful 12 months after his death. McCain stands in stark contrast with a president who did not like him and has always been quick to rip him. In life. In death.

The unfathomable depth of Donald Trump’s anger – call it hate – for McCain often makes me wonder why he hasn’t tried to rescind the Ali Act, which includes an attempt to ensure some financial transparency.

After all, Trump pardoned Jack Johnson without ever mentioning McCain or his tireless leadership in pushing for one. Trump, too, learned a trick or two in the boxing business with Don King. King lied about crowds long before Trump ever did. Yet even with Mike Tyson on the marquee, Trump drove his Atlantic City casino into bankruptcy.

Maybe, Trump is just too busy, what with Greenland and all. The sad truth, however, is that the Ali Act just doesn’t matter much. It has never been enforced the way McCain hoped it would.

Early on, it did force promoters to open up their books to fighters, who have a right to know what the gross income is expected to be. They are only negotiating for their fair share of that projected pie. That financial transparency is one reason boxers still make more money than mixed-martial artists get from the UFC, which is not subject to the Ali Act

But everything else about the legislation – conflicts of interest, enhanced safety measures – have been mostly ignored. Like his pursuit of the Johnson pardon, McCain had hoped to further empower the Ali Act with patience and time. But there was never enough interest in it from McCain’s Congressional colleagues. It’s still a law, but it’s little bit like the speed limit. Nobody pays attention to it anymore.

Two deaths in the wake of McCain’s death, however, are reason to re-energize his pursuit of some rhyme, regulation and reason instead of the usual chaos. Two of the kids with whom McCain identified are gone, dead from head trauma suffered in bouts.

First, Russian junior-welterweight Maxim Dadashev died July 23, about four days after fighting in Maryland. Two days later, Argentine junior-welterweight Hugo Santillan died from injuries sustained in a fight in Buenos Aires.

A shocked game moved on, as it always does. The attention quickly turned to what Canelo Alvarez isn’t doing and what Gennadiy Golovkin will do. There’s always another opening bell, which is another way of saying it’s business as usual.

If McCain were still alive, however, it’s fair to say he’d be calling for a thorough investigation in Maryland and an update of the Ali Act. But the Arizona Senator’s voice is long gone. What he left, however, was a blueprint, still a pathway to ensure that death never becomes usual in the boxing business.

ORANGE, Calif. (Aug. 22, 2019) – Unbeaten bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez (12-0, 7 KOs) weighed in at 117.8 lbs. at Thursday’s weigh in, while challenger Edwin Rodriguez (10-5-1, 5 KOs) weighed 118.1 lbs.

The pair square off in the “New Blood” main event this Friday, Aug. 23, from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

The 10-round showcase fight can be streamed live on TB Presents: New Blood starting at 8:00 p.m. / 11:00 p.m. ET on Thompson Boxing’s Facebook page, YouTube channel: Thompson Boxing TV and online at ThompsonBoxing.com.

Sanchez, 22, of No. Hollywood, Calif., makes his 10-round debut on Friday night.

“There’s a lot to be excited about,” said Sanchez, who is trained by Joel Diaz. “I just have to stay focused and be ready for anything.”

WEIGHTS

Saul Sanchez, 117.8 lbs. vs. Edwin Rodriguez, 118.1 lbs. (10-rounds)
Luis Lopez, 145.8 lbs. vs. Demarcus Layton, 145.7 lbs. (8-rounds)
Oscar Torrez, 212.4 lbs. vs. Miguel Cubos, 229.9 lbs. (6-rounds)
Gabriel Hernandez, 231.3 lbs. vs. Daniel Najera, 220.4 lbs. (6-rounds)
Sebastian Salinas, 131.6 lbs. vs. Michael Gaxiola, 132 lbs. (4-rounds)

Remaining tickets priced at $40, $60 & $100 are available for purchase on the day of the event from the venue starting at 5:30 p.m. local time. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with the first bout starting at approximately 7:45 p.m.

All fights will stream live on TB Presents: New Blood via our Facebook page, YouTube channel and ThompsonBoxing.com. Beto Duran will handle blow-by-blow duties, while Hall of Fame broadcaster Rich Marotta provides expert, color commentary.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET.

Omega Products International is located at 1681 California Ave. Corona, CA 92881 and can be reached at 951-737-7447.

“New Blood” is presented by Thompson Boxing Promotions and sponsored by Everlast.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

NEW YORK (August 22, 2019)–Split-T Management’s super middleweight DeAndre Ware will look to further solidify himself as a contender when he takes on undefeated Vladimir Shishkin in the main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation card, Live on SHOWTIME (10 PM ET / PT) on Friday night at Main Street in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Ware (13-1-2, 8 KOs) of Toledo, Ohio is riding high on the strength of his previous ShoBox appearance when he won a 10-round majority decision over highly-regarded and previously undefeated Ronald Ellis on February 1st.

“This has been my best camp by far. I’m extremely confident and ready for this fight. I’m looking for this to be my best performance. It’s time for me to really get recognized for all that I’ve done. I’m ready for the next step and I’ll show it come Friday night,” said Ware.

A former collegiate football player at the University of Toledo, Ware works full time as a firefighter in his hometown of Toledo.

In Shishkin, Ware will be facing a standout amateur in Russia, compiling 301 wins in 330 fights before turning professional in 2016. He has won his last three contests – all scheduled 10 or 12 round fights -via knockout, including a career-best 10th round TKO of former world title challenger Nadjib Mohammedi in his last bout in October of 2018.

Ware was 168 lbs. at Thursday’s weigh-in; Shiskin was 167 lbs.

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. – Aug. 22, 2019 – Undefeated and top-15 rated super middleweight prospect Vladimir Shishkin and all-action fighter DeAndre Ware both made weight a day before their main event showdown on ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, August 23 on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT).

In the main event, Shishkin (8-0, 5 KOs) will make his U.S. and national television debut against Toledo, Ohio, firefighter Ware (13-1-2, 8 KOs), who is fighting for his third time on the prospect series. In the co-feature, hard-hitting super lightweight Shohjahon Ergashev (16-0, 14 KOs) will face power-punching Mexican Abdiel Ramirez (24-4-1, 22 KOs) in a 10-round bout. And in the opening bout, Ukrainian super bantamweightArnold Khegai (15-0-1, 10 KOs) will take on once-beaten Russian southpaw Vladimir Tikhonov (17-1, 9 KOs) in an eight-round super bantamweight bout.

All three “A” side fighters spent time training in Detroit at the new Kronk Gym and have worked with noted trainer Javan SugarHill Steward at some point during training.

The chance of inclement weather forced the night’s action to be moved to an indoor venue as it was originally scheduled to be held on Main Street. The fights will now take place from the Central Park Community Center in the Rose District of Broken Arrow, Okla. The sold-out event is promoted by Salita Promotions in Association with Tony Holden Productions.

“This is going to be one of the best fight cards of the summer with must-win, pick ’em fights in every match up,” said Dmitriy Salita, head of Salita Promotions. “The winner of the main event will prove to be one of the best super middleweight contenders in the division.”

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Super Middleweight 10-Round Bout 

Vladimir Shishkin – 167 lbs. 

DeAndre Ware – 168 lbs.

Referee: Gary Ritter (Edmund, Okla.)

Judges: Henry Ellick (Miami, Okla.), Sarah Atwood (Edmond, Okla.), David Sutherland (Skiatook, Okla.) 

Super Lightweight 10-Round Bout 

Shohjahon Ergashev – 140 lbs.

Abdiel Ramirez – 141 lbs.

Referee: Gerald Ritter (Mustang, Okla.)

Judges: Henry Ellick (Miami, Okla.), Henry Gueary (Kansas City, Kan.), David Sutherland (Skiatook, Okla.)

Super Bantamweight 8-Round Bout 

Arnold Khegai – 122 lbs.

Vladimir Tikhonov – 123 lbs.

Referee: Gary Ritter (Edmund, Okla.)

Judges: Henry Ellick (Miami, Okla.), Sarah Atwood (Edmond, Okla.), Henry Gueary (Kansas City, Kan.)

Here’s what the fighters had to say before they weighed in at Evolved Fitness in Broken Arrow.

FINAL QUOTES:

VLADIMIR SHISHKIN

“This is definitely the beginning of something big. I feel a responsibility to show a lot and show that I’m one of the better performers in the division.

“SugarHill will be in my corner and I’ve been with him for six weeks. I want to learn how to fight ‘Detroit style.’

“I feel phenomenal, I’m calm, confident and energized.

“I know Friday night is a big step for my career, I don’t think about it all the time, but I feel one hundred percent prepared and ready physically and mentally. I’m ready to put on a show and show that I’m a new name in boxing.

“I expect my opponent to come in and be aggressive, so I’m going to try to counter him. I plan to be the aggressor and start pushing back and showing my skills, strength and conditioning. It’s going to be a very exciting and competitive fight.

“I’m the best Russian prospect out there. I’m well-schooled and have made good progression.

“I like to fight on the inside and I don’t think Ware will go toe-to-toe with me. I’m prepared for anything.

“I know people are thinking this is a 50-50 fight, but I’m the better fighter and I will show that.

DeANDRE WARE:

“I’m embracing this. I’m so excited to be here. It’s been a long road. I have to prove myself now. I’m an underdog but I’m coming. I’m prepared. I love fighting on SHOWTIME but this really is just like fighting in the gym.

“SHOWTIME brought me back after suffering my first loss (to Cem Kilic) and I’m going to show that they made the right decision. I didn’t have a full training camp for that fight. I’ve had a full training camp for this fight.

“I’m a complete fighter. I can fight, I can box, I can move. You will see all that on Friday night.

“This is my third time on ShoBox. I didn’t feel that pressure for the first fight, and I don’t feel pressure now. With my fight against (Ronald) Ellis I could have gone 12 rounds. I’m in better shape now and I have more confidence.

“This is it. Every fight is it. When you’re the ‘B’ side, every fight is it. Even the ‘A’ side. Every fight means something.”

SHOHJAHON ERGASHEV:

“Tomorrow, I’m going to showcase a new dimension of my boxing skills. My power skills are old, but I’ve been working a lot on jabs, footwork, movement and mixing up speed of punching so I can land power shots in a more discrete way.

“I’m going to show a new Shohjahon tomorrow night. My opponent is aggressive, so I have a lot of other different weapons in my arsenal. If he can take my punches, I will show different weapons.”

“The fight is not going to go the distance. At the end of the day, I want to land power and score an exciting knockout always.”

“I fought a tall, awkward fighter my last fight on SHOWTIME and it was a great experience. (Mykal Fox) was tall and long, and now I’m fighting a shorter, more aggressive style fighter in Ramirez.

“This fight one hundred percent will not go the distance. I know I have fans because I punch hard. But I need to be flexible and slow things down a little bit. That’s what I’ve been focused on the last few days. At the end of the day, I want to land power and score an exciting knockout always.”

ABDIEL RAMIREZ

“My will and power are my strengths. I have deceptive power.

“I’ve fought some lefties like my opponent, but it’s been four or five years. I know my opponent has a big left hand.

“It’s all about defense for me in this fight. We’ve been working on movement and avoiding the big punch.

“I took some time off from 2014 to 2017 because of some management and promoter issues, but that’s in the past. I’m just trying to advance my career. I’ve been hanging out on the ‘B’ side and now I’m ready to be on the ‘A’ side. I need a chance and this is it for me.”

ARNOLD KHEGAI, JR.

“Last time, I should’ve come here earlier to get used to the climate. I couldn’t sleep for a week and I was a little sick. It should’ve gone a different way. This fight I came in a month and two weeks early, so no excuses this time.

“I feel great, I feel strong and I think I’m going to break my opponent tomorrow night. I just hope he’s ready.

“Don’t miss this fight. Watch me tomorrow and you will not be disappointed. You’re going to see fireworks.”

VLADIMIR TIKHONOV

“I felt a lot of pressure in my ShoBox debut and fighting in America for the first time.

“I learned a lot from that loss (to Jesse Hernandez) in 2017. I’m one hundred percent focused.

After the Hernandez fight I had right elbow surgery. I’ll be ready for whatever my opponent brings on Friday night.”

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 79 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. 

HOUSTON, TEXAS (AUGUST 22, 2019)–Weights for Friday Night’s King’s Promotions and Force Train Promotions show at the Arabia Shrine in Houston.

Pablo Cruz 129.2 – William Gonzalez 128.6
Jerrico Walton 144.4 – Victor Terrazas 150
Raphael Igbokwe 166 – Gnec Pllana 168
Andre August 174.4 – Christian Solarzano 173.2
Jesse Garcia 133.8 – Christian Guido 133.6
Joshua Freeland 153 – Luis Roman 151.4
Marcus Bates 120.4 – Saul Hernandez 122
Tristin Kalkreuth 183.2 – Aaron Valentine TBA

Tickets are $35, $50 and $600 for a Table of 6, and can be purchased at the following web address:

BAKERSFIELD, CA. (August 22, 2019) – Former world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin will duel hard-hitting Alfredo Angulo in a 12-round super middleweight showdown that headlines FS1 PBC Fight Night and on FOX Deportes on Saturday, September 21 from Rabobank Arena in Bakersfield, California.

Coverage on FS1 begins at 10:30 p.m. ET/7:30 p.m. PT and features fast-rising prospect Chris “Prime Time” Colbert entering the ring for a 10-round lightweight matchup against former title challenger Miguel Beltran Jr., plus unbeaten welterweight Terrel Williams goes up against Thomas Dulorme in a 10-round attraction, while unbeaten prospect Jesus Ramos takes on Rickey Edwards in a 10-round super lightweight match to open FS1 PBC Fight Night.

FS2 PBC Fight Night Prelims will precede the main card and begin at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT, highlighted by hard-hitting Jeison Rosario against unbeaten Bakhram Murtazaliev in a 12-round IBF 154-pound title eliminator.

“This is a great fight card with anything a boxing fan could want, featuring former champions, top contenders and future stars, all in evenly-match bouts that promise drama,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “Peter Quillin vs. Alfredo Angulo promises to be a good, old fashion slugfest with two fighters looking to prove they’re ready for a world title fight next. With exciting prospects like Chris Colbert and Jesus Ramos, plus evenly matched fights between contenders in Williams vs. Dulorme and Rosario vs. Murtazaliev, this will be an action-packed night from top to bottom.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are on sale Saturday, August 24 at 12 p.m. PT and can be purchased at www.rabobankarena.com and AXS.com.

Quillin (34-1-1, 23 KOs) is seeking to climb back into the championship ranks and must go through Angulo before reaching them. The 36-year-old, who was born in Chicago and now lives in Brooklyn, won the middleweight world title against Hassan N’Dam in 2012. He successfully defended it three times. He is coming off a no-decision against former super middleweight champion Caleb Truax on April 13 in an FS1 PBC Fight Night main event. He had taken the first two rounds on all three judges’ scorecards before the action was halted when a deep cut over Truax’s right eye, caused by an accidental head butt, brought an end to the fight and resulted in a no-decision.

“It looks like the Caleb Truax fight wasn’t meant to be, but this fight against Angulo is an important fight for me to establish myself in this division,” said Quillin, who was originally scheduled to rematch Truax on August 31, before Truax withdrew due to an Achilles injury. “I’m ready to go 12 rounds right now. I just have to stay ready and stay in shape because we’ve had a great camp where we were able to build on certain things. This is what was meant to be and I’m going to make the most of it with a great performance on September 21.”

Angulo (25-7, 21 KOs) enters the match against Quillin after a knockout victory over Evert Bravo on April 20. The 37-year-old veteran, who was born in Mexicali, Mexico and now lives in Coachella, California, has been in with some of the top boxers and sluggers during a career that has seen him in numerous exciting bouts against the likes of Canelo Alvarez and Erislandy Lara amongst others.

“I am looking forward to showing my fans the best Alfredo Angulo on September 21,” said Angulo. “I have been working hard towards this opportunity. This is a chance to move closer to a world title and with hard work and the support of my team, I’m going to win that title.”

Representing his hometown of Brooklyn, N.Y., Colbert (12-0, 4 KOs) has begun to make a name for himself showing off tremendous skills across his first 12 pro victories. The 22-year-old turned pro in 2019 after an impressive amateur career and most recently dominated Alberto Mercado on his way to a unanimous decision on FOX in June.

“I’m dedicating this bout to the fight against childhood cancer,” said Colbert, who was inspired after recently being introduced to a young fan who has cancer. “I plan on going in to Rabobank Arena and doing what I do best on September 21. I never make predictions for my fights, but I’m always looking to dominate and if the knockout comes then it comes. I have a job to do and I just have to stay focused on the man in front of me. It’s going to be ‘Prime Time’ on September 21 so that fans will want to make sure to tune-in for this one.”

Fighting out of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, Beltran (33-7, 22 KOs) will return to action after dropping a decision to former world champion Yuriorkis Gamboa last November. The 30-year-old challenged Roman Martinez for a super featherweight title and lost by split decision in September 2012.

“I’m very excited for this opportunity to fight Chris Colbert on FS1 and FOX Deportes,” said Beltran. “I have fought the best 130 pounders in the world – Rocky Martinez, Gamboa, Mickey Roman and I have challenged for the world title twice. This is the type of fight I need on national TV to get myself back in contention. I’m very serious about winning and happy to have my training camp in Los Angeles with my cousin, former world champion Ray Beltran, who is helping me prepare for victory.”

Williams (18-0, 13 KOs) extended his unbeaten record in April with a split decision victory over Justin DeLoach in Las Vegas. The 35-year-old from Los Angeles previously won a decision over David Grayton in September 2018.

A longtime contender, Dulorme (24-3-1, 16 KOs) earned a majority draw in his last fight against former world champion Jessie Vargas last October. The 29-year-old had previously dropped a narrow decision to top contender Yordenis Ugas in August 2017. That defeat came after a streak where the Puerto Rican fighter won eight of nine fights, with his only loss during that stretch coming in a title fight against Terrence Crawford.

At just 18-years-old, Ramos (10-0, 9 KOs) scored knockouts in his first nine fights since turning pro last May. The Casa Grande, Arizona-native most recently went the distance for the first time in his pro career, winning a shutout unanimous decision over Kevin Shacks in June on FOX.

Fighting out of Paterson, New Jersey, Edwards (12-3, 3 KOs) won his first 11 pro fights including victories over then unbeaten fighters Azriel Paez and John Delperdang. The 29-year-old most recently lost a decision to undefeated Mykquan Williams in May.

The 24-year-old Rosario (19-1-1, 13 KOs) has won his last five fights and is unbeaten in eight bouts since his only pro loss to Nathaniel Gallimore in 2017. The Dominican-born fighter residing in Florida has taken down a slew of contenders and top prospects including Jamontay Clark, Justin DeLoach, Marcos Hernandez and most recently, Jorge Cota on FS1 in April.

Russia’s Murtazaliev(16-0, 13 KOs), who now resides in Oxnard, California and is unbeaten since turning pro in 2014. The 26-year-old has delivered knockout victories over Elvin Ayala and Bruno Leonardo Romay in 2019.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

For more information: visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, http://www.foxsports.com/presspass/homepage and 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.

MINNEAPOLIS (August 22, 2019) – Fast-rising Cuban heavyweight Frank Sanchez will face Puerto Rican Olympian Victor Bisbal in a 10-round heavyweight showdown as part of FOX PBC Fight Night action and on FOX Deportes Saturday, August 31 from The Armory in Minneapolis.

Sanchez vs. Bisbal replaces the previously scheduled bout between former champions Peter Quillin and Caleb Truax, after Truax was forced to withdraw due to an Achilles injury.

Coverage on FOX and FOX Deportes begins at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and is headlined by former world champion Erislandy “The American Dream” Lara battling Ramon Alvarez in a 12-round bout for the WBA Super Welterweight title. The co-main event will see a pair of sensational young super welterweights collide as Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora takes on Jamontay “The Quiet Assassin” Clark in a 10-round attraction.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Warriors Boxing, can be purchased at the Armory at http://ArmoryMN.com/ and through Ticketmaster.

A former amateur standout from his native Cuba, Sanchez (12-0, 10 KOs) now lives in Las Vegas and is unbeaten since turning pro in 2017. The 27-year-old scored knockouts in his first six pro fights, and picked up nine victories in 2018. Sanchez most recently scored a dominant second round stoppage over Jason Bergman at The Armory in July.

After representing Puerto Rico at the 2004 Olympic games, Bisbal (23-3, 17 KOs) won 21 of his first 22 pro fights, including a 16-fight winning streak from late 2006 until 2013. He suffered defeats to Dominic Breazeale and Magomed Abdusalamov before winning his last two fights heading into August 31. His last outing saw him Edson Roberto Dos Santos Borges in December 2018.

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Viewers can live stream the PBC shows on the FOX Sports and FOX NOW apps or at FOXSports.com. In addition, all programs are available on FOX Sports on SiriusXM channel 83 on satellite radios and on the SiriusXM app.

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

NEW YORK – August 22, 2019 – Undefeated lightweight prospect Michael Dutchover returns to ShoBox: The New Generation seeking to make a statement win in his homecoming fight against Thomas Mattice in the 10-round main event of a three-fight telecast on Friday, September 20 live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from La Hacienda Event Center in Midland, Texas.

The fast-rising Texan prospect Dutchover (13-0, 10 KOs) returns for his second consecutive test on ShoBox after making an impressive debut in May with a first-round knockout. The 21-year-old prospect will face his toughest test to date in ShoBox veteran Mattice (14-1-1, 10 KOs), a fearless five-year pro that has displayed promising boxing skills in previous appearances on the developmental prospect series.

In a battle of undefeated featherweight prospects, two-time Junior Olympic National Champion and two-time Golden Gloves Champion Ruben Villa (16-0, 5 KOs) will face Garcia Promotions’ most coveted prospect, Mexico’s Enrique Vivas (17-0, 9 KOs) in a 10-round matchup. In the opening bout, undefeated welterweight prospect Brandun Lee (14-0, 12 KOs) will face an opponent yet to be named.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing in association with GH3 Promotions, Garcia Promotions and Now Boxing Promotions, are priced at $120, $100 and $80 and can be purchased online at www.haciendamidland,com or by calling 432-563-3737.

“We were able to put together one of the best ShoBox cards we’ve seen so far this year thanks to the collective efforts of five promoters that didn’t shy away from matching their prospects tough,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of ShoBox: The New Generation. “We get to see unbeaten Michael Dutchover making his hometown debut in a step-up fight against the talented Thomas Mattice, a match of unbeaten prospects in Villa vs. Vivas and the series debut of a top prospect and former amateur standout Brandun Lee. September 20, is without any doubt, the classic example of what ShoBox is all about.”

“We are excited to once again be able to showcase Michael Dutchover and Ruben Villa on ShoBox,” said Artie Pelullo, President and CEO, Banner Promotions. “It will be a great experience for Michael to fight at home and continue his ascension up the ranks. Ruben is ranked very high, so we expect a great performance as he continues to position himself for a world title.”

“In a lot of ways this is a coming out party for Michael, but anyone that has followed his career knows he boasts world championship talent and has the dedication to get to the top,” said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing. “Also on the card is Ruben, another supremely talented youngster that will also be in the mix for a world title shot in the near term. Boxing fans who tune in on SHOWTIME are going to see two incredible talents.”

Dutchover, of Santa Fe Springs, Calif. by way of Midland, Texas, started boxing at the age of eight, compiling a notable amateur record of 130-17. He was a runner-up at the 2016 National Golden Gloves and a Bronze Medalist in the 2016 Olympic qualifiers, turning pro shortly afterwards. Dutchover, who boasts a 77 percent KO ratio, has knocked out his last five opponents including durable prospect Rosekie Cristobal in his last outing in just 109 seconds.

Dutchover will wear former NFL running back and legendary Texas Longhorn player Cedric Benson’s jersey to the ring on fight night. Benson, who also played football for the renowned Robert E. Lee High School in Midland, was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident on August 17.

“Mattice is a talented fighter, he will bring out the best in me,” said Dutchover, who is excited to headline in his hometown. “Fighting at home means everything to me. I have fought mostly in California and on the East Coast. This homecoming is overdue. Like Friday Night Lights, I will be the next big thing from Midland, Texas. I will have my teachers, coaches and classmates there on fight night. I am ready for a big outing.”
Mattice, who is making his fifth start on the series, is looking to rebound after last minute opponent, Will Madera, handed him his first defeat in his last ShoBoxappearance. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, the 28-year-old lightweight fought to a split-draw in an immediate rematch with Zhora Hamazaryan in September 2018 after winning a controversial split-decision in their first bout. Prior to his back-to-back fights with Hamazaryan, Mattice had won six consecutive bouts via knockout. He scored a decision over Angel Sarinana in his last start in May.

“I am focused and confident,” said Mattice. “I haven’t watched much on my opponent. I let my team watch and develop the best possible game plan. I know he is a durable guy but I’m coming to win. This is my fifth ShoBox appearance and I feel that shows people recognize my talent and hard work.”

“Since day one Thomas Mattice has put his character on the line letting everyone know he doesn’t duck anyone,” said Mattice’s promoter Vito Mielnicki, President of GH3 Promotions. “It’s a crossroads fight for both fighters; Mike [Dutchover] is young and hungry and has never been in a top-level fight but has the pedigree, and Thomas has been tested and proven he belongs. It’s going to be the fight of the night. I predict Thomas will win by KO.”

The 22-year-old Villa of Salinas, Calif., returns for his third consecutive test on ShoBox after scoring a unanimous decision over Luis Alberto Lopez in May and outclassing then-unbeaten Ruben Cervera in January. Villa, who started boxing at the age of five, owns victories over Shakur Stevenson, Devin Haney and Gary Antonio Russell as an amateur (166-17). He turned pro in 2016 and is considered by many a prospect to watch. He hopes to continue his rapid ascension in the featherweight ranks with an exceptional showing against the undefeated Vivas.

“I am looking forward to performing in front of the fans in Texas,” said Villa, “I sparred with Enrique Vivas in the past, he’s an aggressive fighter. My team and I put together a good game plan and I’m going to follow it. I think a win here will position me a step closer to a title shot. I hope to be in a title eliminator or championship fight within the next 12-to-18 months. I have my eye on the vacant WBO belt.”

Vivas of Texcoco, Mexico, is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Jose Estrella in his United States debut in June. He started training in martial arts and kickboxing from an early age, turning to the sweet science at 17, after a motorcycle accident. As an amateur, he won national, regional and state championships, amassing a 93-7 record. He turned pro in late 2014 and has stayed very active, fighting three-to-five times per year. Nicknamed “El Ejecutor” (The Executioner) for his devastating combinations, the 25-year-old has built his undefeated record against limited opposition and a victory over a gifted prospect like Villa can catapult his rise through the ranks.

“I am very happy I got this opportunity,” said Vivas, who is making his television debut on September 20. “Ruben Villa is a very strong southpaw with a lot of experience. He is one of the best featherweights out there. I’m up for the challenge. All of the struggles I have been through in my life have led me here, to this fight. When I fight, I let it all out. It will be a very exciting fight. Don’t miss it.”

“I’m very excited for Vivas’ debut on ShoBox,” said four-division champion Mikey Garcia, who is the President of Garcia Promotions. “This is a 50-50 fight. When we agreed to this matchup, we made the decision with a premise in mind that we firmly believe in: We fight the best to be the best. That is and will continue to be the foundation of Garcia Promotions.”

Super lightweight prospect Lee, of Coachella, Calif., turned pro at 17 after a stellar amateur run (196-5). He has sparred with Mikey Garcia, Devin Haney and Mauricio Herrera. Trained by his father Bobby, the 20-year-old has built up an 86-percent knockout ratio. A very active fighter, he has fought Pablo Martinez and Jorge Munguia. A definitive win on his TV debut would help put his name on the map.

“I am very excited and grateful for this opportunity to fight on national television,” said Lee. “I am young and any good performance will boost my career in a positive way, whether it is a knockout or decision. I am a boxer-puncher and I can adapt to anything in the ring. I am looking forward to showcasing my skills on national television.”

“I can’t describe how excited I am about Brandun Lee,” said Now Boxing Promotions’ Cameron Dunkin, Lee’s promoter. “He was 196-5 as an amateur and won 16 National Championships. He is truly gifted and very talented. He’s of Korean heritage and his fan base is huge. They really support him. He has an amazing future.”

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 80 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.

Abraham Nova 129.6 (15-0, 11 KOs) vs. Luis Castillo 130 (20-3, 15 KOs)
NABA Super Featherweight Championship – 10 Rounds

Greg Bono 153.2 (pro debut) vs. Brian Urday 152 (pro debut)
Middleweights – 4 Rounds

Khiry Todd 147.8 (8-1, 6 KOs) vs. Alex Duarte 145.8 (14-7-1, 11 KOs)
Welterweights – 6 Rounds
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James Perella 147 (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. Jose Aubel 146.4 (8-5)
Welterweights – 4 Rounds

Carlos Gongora 159.2 (16-0, 12 KOs) vs. Alan Zavala 157.6 (15-4, 13 KOs)
Middleweights – 10 Rounds

Jonathan Depina 134 (pro debut) vs. Robbie Thomas 137.2 (0-1)
Lightweights – 4 Rounds

Brian Ceballo 149.4 (9-0, 4 KOs) vs. Luis Florez 152.6 (24-13, 20 KOs)
Junior Middleweights – 8 Rounds

James Perkins 185.2 (pro debut) vs. Aaron Trecell Smith 186.2 (pro debut)
Cruiserweights – 4 Rounds

photo credits: Emily Harney/Fightography
Murphys Boxing presents ‘Nova vs. Castillo’ this Friday, August 23th in Everett, Massachusetts at Encore Boston Harbor. Doors open at 7pm. Limited tickets remain at www.murphysboxing.com and will also be available at the door.

ABOUT MURPHYS BOXING

Murphys Boxing was founded by Dropkick Murphys’ frontman, Ken Casey in 2014. In just 5 short years, Murphys Boxing has become the premier boxing promoter in the New England area and one of the hottest young promotions in the country. 2018 was a breakout year for Murphys Boxing as they took their first fighter to a world title. Along with the promotion’s first champion, several Murphys Boxing fighters secured world title opportunities and nationally televised fights in 2018. Murphys Boxing closed out their banner year by co-promoting the WBO Middleweight Championship bout between Demetrius Andrade and Walter Kautondokwa in front of over 10,000 fans at the TD Garden, the legendary home of the Boston Celtics, which was broadcast internationally on DAZN. Murphys Boxing’s current roster features world ranked contenders like Abraham Nova, Charles Foster, Mark DeLuca, Greg Vendetti, Gary ‘Spike’ O’Sullivan, Carlos Gongora and undefeated prospects like William Foster III, Luis Arcon Diaz and more!

For more information visit: www.murphysboxing.com

ABOUT UFC FIGHT PASS

UFC FIGHT PASS® is the world’s leading digital subscription service for combat sports. Since launching in 2013, FIGHT PASS is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. FIGHT PASS provides its members with unlimited access to live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims; live mixed martial arts and combat sports from around the world; original series and historical programming; special features; behind-the-scenes content; in-depth interviews; and up-to-the minute reports on the world of combat sports. FIGHT PASS subscribers also have 24/7 access to the world’s largest fight library, featuring more than 17,000 bouts from dozens of combats sports organizations, as well as every fight in UFC history. Fight fans can access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

For more information visit: www.ufc.tv/page/fightpass

ABOUT ENCORE BOSTON HARBOR

Encore Boston Harbor is a $2.6 billion Five Star global destination gaming resort featuring 671 hotel rooms with sweeping views of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor, an ultra-premium spa, specialty retail, 15 dining and lounge venues and a state-of-the-art ballroom and meeting spaces. It is the largest private, single-phase development in the history of the Commonwealth.

Situated on the waterfront along the Mystic River and connected to Boston Harbor, Encore Boston Harbor opens up the Everett shoreline to the public for the first time in more than a century. The resort has created a six-acre park along the water which features pedestrian and bicycle paths that provide access to the waterfront, an events lawn, picnic and public viewing areas. Ornate floral displays, public art, retail and dining experiences overlook the Encore Harborwalk.