Dmitriy Salita of Salita Promotions proudly announces the signing of undefeated welterweight contender Wesley “King Wes” Tucker.

A skilled counter puncher with above average power, Tucker (12-0, 7 KOs) of Toledo, Ohio, had over 250 amateur bouts and won several championships including the Toledo Golden Gloves, Silver Gloves, and Junior Olympics multiple times.

The 29-year-old southpaw started boxing at age 8 years old and already has 18 years boxing experience.

“My ring generalship is my greatest asset in the ring,” said Tucker, “tall, small, bigger, I’ve already seen it all and I know what to do to beat them.”

Tucker will make his debut fighting under the Salita Promotions banner on Saturday, November 12, at their “Detroit Brawl” event at the Masonic Temple in Downtown Detroit, when he faces North Carolina’s Richard Hall in a six-round battle.

Sponsored by Thomas Magee’s Sporting House Whiskey Bar, tickets for “Detroit Brawl” will be priced at VIP $123, Box Seats $100, Ringside $93, $63, $38, and $28 and available at all Ticketmaster outlets and Ticketmaster.com.

A father of five, Tucker says family plays a major role in his life and the reason he is a tireless worker in the gym.

“They are my push and motivation for everything I do. They come to the gym with me a lot at least three times a week. And my mom, she loves what I do. She’s my number one fan.”

Tucker’s manager, David McWater who arranged the deal with Salita, says he’s happy to have another of his fighters under their promotional banner.

“I’m really excited about Wesley signing with Salita Promotions,” he said. “We started working with Dmitry when we signed Antonio Nieves with him and he’s been a gem. I believe he’s THE up and coming promoter in the USA and are excited to get our guys in on the ground level with him. Wesley is a wonderful kid who has overcame a lot of adversity to get to this spot. I am confident he will make the most of this opportunity.”

Salita says he’s going to go to work immediately on his new fighter’s career.

“Wesley has as much skill and experience as any fighter in boxing,” he said. “his 250 amateur fights mean he’s seen it all and done it all. There isn’t the same learning curve with a fighter with that much experience. We will immediately be looking to move him into the top 10 and an eventual world title shot in the next year or two. I thank him and his team for joining my growing stable of fighters.”

On November 12, Tucker joins a full cast of local and international prospects on Salita’s “Detroit Brawl,” including a trio of undefeated Detroit bantamweights: James Gordon Smith (10-0, 6 KOs), Jarico “Great Lakes King” O’Quinn (3-0, 2 KOs) and Zach Shamoun (4-0-1, 3 KOs); as well as Russian cruiserweight Alexey Zubov (12-1, 7 KOs); Georgian super lightweight Giorgi Gelashvili (5-0, 3 KOs); and undefeated UK-based bantamweight Muheeb “Flashy,” Fazeldin (8-0-1, 3 KOs) in separate bouts.

More fights, opponents and rounds will be announced shortly. On fight night, doors open at 5:00 pm and the fights begin at 6:00 pm.

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Thomas Magee’s Sporting House Whiskey Bar offers patrons an old-school sports and whiskey bar in Downtown Detroit’s Eastern Market district. Thomas Magee’s prides itself on providing every sport, every game, and every fight, plus great beer and whiskey!

For more information on the “Detroit Brawl” or Salita Promotions, visit www.salitapromotions.com.

Thomas Magee’s Sporting House Whiskey Bar is located at 1408 E Fisher Service Drive in Detroit. For more information, call 313-263-4342 or visit their official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ThomasMageesSportingHouseWhiskeyBar

About Salita Promotions
Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

NEW YORK (Nov. 4, 2016) – This election season, boxing fans will vote for the greatest knockout in the 30-year history of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING. A Knockout Bracket consisting of 32 of the most dramatic and memorable KOs of the past 30 years launched on Friday, and an ultimate winner will be revealed during the Dec. 10 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader.

The 32 candidates are into broken into four regions – heavyweights, middleweights, welterweights and the lighter weight divisions – with some of the greatest fighters of the last 30 years facing off in this unique tournament.

In the opening round of the heavyweight region, former undisputed heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield will square off with current WBC heavyweight champ Deontay Wilder, while Hall of Famer Felix Trinidad takes on former champ Lucas Matthysse in the welterweight region.

The 16 matchups in the round of 32 launched on Friday at www.showtimeknockouts.com, and the winners will advance to the next round of voting beginning Nov. 14. Subsequent rounds will continue over the next six weeks until the ultimate reveal Dec. 10 on SHOWTIME.

Fans can join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #SHObestKO.

About Showtime Networks:
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Apple®, Roku®, Amazon and Google. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Hulu, Sony PlayStation® Vue and Amazon Prime Video. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™, and offers Smithsonian Earth™ through SN Digital LLC. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.

Rancho Cucamonga, CA (November 4, 2016) – Top undefeated featherweight prospect DANIEL “Twitch” FRANCO, (14-0-3, 9 KO’s) is winding down training camp in anticipation of his IBF-USBA Featherweight Title fight against also undefeated DERRICK MURRAY, (13-0-1, 5 KO’s) on Thursday, November 10 at the Hilton in Washington, D.C.

FRANCO vs. MURRAY will take place in the main event at the Fight for Children’s 9th Annual FIGHT NIGHT. More information is available at their website FIGHT NIGHT

Promoted by Roc Nation Sports, Franco is featured in the outstanding new mini-documentary,
“I Am Boxing, Now You Know”.

Training Camp Photos/Team Franco

DANIEL FRANCO

“Every day, I’m doing my roadwork in the mountains at Claremont Hills, six miles per day. If I’m not sparring I’m running in the morning, if we’re sparring than I’ll go later in the day after we’ve trained.”

“I’ve sparred all over the Los Angeles area for this fight, in Oxnard, Los Angeles, Glendale and in Rancho Cucamonga at my home gym, Warzone Boxing Club. I like to switch it up and work with different boxers.”

“Most recently I’ve been working with Chris Avalos and a 2012 Olympian from Russia named Gaybatulla Gadzhialiyev, both have given me excellent work.”

“There was no change in my training from the opponent switch (Jose Haro to Derrick Murray), I have a little more tape on Murray. They’re both orthodox but they both switch up to southpaw at different times and I’m prepared for either.”

“Clearly this is the biggest fight of my career, a win earns me the IBF-USBA Featherweight Title and a world ranking, it’s a very important step.”

“Traveling to Washington, D.C. actually benefits me for this fight. I can completely focus on Monday while I’m traveling all day just on the fight with just a very limited amount of interruptions, I can be in my own world and take time to meditate on the fight.”

“I haven’t really been to East Coast so this is a great opportunity for me. I’m looking to put on a show and to impress the fans at this prestigious event. And then I’m going to do some sightseeing in Washington, D.C.”

RAY CHAPARRO, Manager of Franco

“This is a tremendous opportunity for our team. Daniel has looked very sharp in sparring and he’s fully prepared for victory. Thursday night will be a special night for us in Washington, D.C., and we’re excited to be a part of this extraordinary event.”

SOCIAL MEDIA
Twitter: @DanielTwitch, @FightNightDC, @RocNation
Instagram: @DanielTwitch, @FightNightDC, @RocNationSports

Pensacola, Florida: Yesterday, Isaac “Golden Boy” Chilemba (24-4-2, 10 KOs) held an open workout for members of the media in advance of his upcoming fight on November 19 against Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk (11-0, 9 KOs) for the NABF Light Heavyweight Title on the Kovalev-Ward “Pound For Pound” HBO Pay-Per-View televised undercard live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

Chilemba and Jones
Photo Credits: Scott Foster/Main Events

Click Here For Photos – Credit: Scott Foster/Main Events

Isaac “Golden Boy” Chilemba

Question: How did you become a boxer?

Chilemba: “I was born in Malawi. When I was 14 one day I was walking around and friend of mine asked me if I want to come to the boxing gym with him. I looked in the window and I was just drawn to it. When I saw boxing I thought, ‘Wow that’s me.’ I walked in and asked them how to start and they said I could start now. I took off my flip flops and that was the beginning.”

Q: Have you done anything new to prepare for this fight?

IC: “I have been a professional fighter for ten years. During that time, I have figured out what works for me. I have been sticking to that stuff but we keep adding new stuff too. Now that I am working with Roy Jones there is a lot of new stuff added to my routine. He has added things to improve my style. But as far as conditioning goes I stick to the same. Everything has been going well so far.”

Q: Did you know about Roy Jones as a child?

IC: “Growing up I looked up to Roy. When I started boxing the fighter I most wanted to be like was Roy Jones. As far as movements and putting combinations together, I would sit at home and play Roy Jones’ DVD and try to take his talent and make into mine. It is very overwhelming that I am actually here today.”

Q: Have you fought in front of an audience this large before?

IC: “I believe so. When I fought in London it was as big and when I fought in Russia it was as big too. Being on this card is huge to me. I am fighting in the spotlight. I have the opportunity to get back on TV. I am really looking forward to it.”

Q: What can you tell me about your opponent?

IC: “I don’t know much about him. He is tall. I love fighting tall fighters (laughs). I know he is a well-accomplished amateur. Even though he only has 11 pro fights I believe he has all of his experience from the amateurs. He is undefeated. However, that doesn’t bother me at all. All I want to know is he good enough to be on my level?”

Q: Why do you enjoy fighting tall fighters?

IC: “It is easier to hit higher than lower (laughs). Listen, it doesn’t make any difference whether you are tall or short, it comes down to how intelligent and how quick and how much you really want what you are doing. That will determine if he really belongs at this level. All I know is that I will come out of the fight victorious. I cannot say I will go in with Mike Tyson-like defense. I will go in with one plan, if that doesn’t work I will adapt. I love to have all the tools with me.”

Q: What is your strongest tool?

IC: “My will. My heart. I am determined to get somewhere. That is my strong-suit. My will is what keeps me going.”

Q: Are you planning to continue to train with Roy?

IC: “Yes, of course. I think this will be me until my body can take no more.”

Q: What is it like to be trained by Roy?

IC: “It is amazing. It is something I cannot express. I cannot believe I am here training with my idol.”

Q: What has he taught you?

IC: “As a fighter growing up I looked up to him. I copied everything he does and tried to make it into my style. Before now I did not understand why he does the things he does. I just copied what I could see on the TV and my computer. Now I am here and he has explained to me why he does what he does and how to take a step one after the other. It is amazing. It is mind-blowing.”

Q: Why do you think you are going to win?

IC: “I believe in myself. I believe in my abilities. I want to prove to the world that I still have everything and I will be the great fighter I have always wanted to be. Gvozdyk is just something in my way that I am going to destroy.”

Q: You seem like such a nice guy. How can you say you are going to destroy something?

IC: “I never thought of myself as nice. It is my nature to be nice to people who are good to me. But when it comes to boxing I have goals that I want to accomplish as a fighter and anyone that I am fighting is like a block in my way. There is no nice way to penetrate through that and in order to do that I have to destroy. When it comes to fighting I am no longer a nice guy. Outside the ring you can be nice but inside the ring you cannot. That is what I am trying to do.”

Roy Jones Jr.

Question: What can you tell me about Isaac and how did you two get connected?

Jones: “Isaac is very good. He is one of the top-ranked light heavyweights in the world today. He is a very good fighter. I first saw him fight about six or seven years ago and I thought he could be something special. I called him and told him I would like to work with him. The only thing was he was fighting Sergey Kovalev. So I told him that we would wait until after that fight and then he should come to train with me. This guy can fight. I know he can fight. We decided that after the Kovalev fight we would get together. He came here to see me after the Kovalev fight. We both thoroughly enjoyed it. I saw where he had been lacking. Now we are working to correct those things.”

Q: Why do you train fighters?

RJ: “Because I love it. I love giving back to the sport. I feel it would unfair if I didn’t give back to others what I have gained. I love the competition. I love the underdog. I love taking fighters to the next level. The reward for me is that I was able to effect somebody’s life. I was able to take what God gave me and pass it on to somebody else and make their life better as a result. The fact that I can use what God gave me and help make somebody else better that is what I get out of this.”

Q: Talk about working with Isaac.

RJ: “I love training Isaac. His whole career he wanted to be like me. So many people have told him that he can’t be like Roy Jones Jr. They told him to quit trying to fight like Roy Jones Jr. But what they really meant is that they don’t know to teach him to fight like me but instead they told him he just couldn’t do it. I understand how to teach him. He can do some of the things I do. He can’t be Roy Jones Jr. There is only one Roy Jones Jr. I can’t be him and he can’t be me. I wanted to be like Muhammad Ali, that is why I started boxing. I can’t be Muhammad Ali. We always draw a picture of what we want to be in our minds. Now he can learn a lot of reasons why I do the things I do and he can be a better student of the game.”

Q: How far has he come along since you started working together?

RJ: “Isaac has come a long way in a short period of time. I am not so surprised because he had a lot of my movements down already but he just didn’t know why he was doing them. The more we work together the better he is going to get. It is just a matter of time. I am really impressed with him. From what I can tell he wasn’t having a good time in camp in the past. That is what Roy Jones is all about, having a good time while training. You must enjoy your job. If you don’t enjoy your job, then why are you doing it? I enjoy training. I enjoy teaching him.”

Q: What is your prediction for the fight?

RJ: “I think it will be a good fight. I understand Gvozdyk is a very good fighter. Isaac has never been knocked out. Isaac is relentless. He loves what he does. He was in the ring with the toughest puncher in the world, Sergey Kovalev, and even Kovalev couldn’t knock him out.”

Q: What are Gvozdyk’s best attributes?

RJ: “He is a straight puncher. He has power in both hands. He is not a bad fighter at all. I like him. He is quick.”

###

Kovalev vs. Ward “Pound For Pound”, a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA light heavyweight title at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, is presented by Main Events, Roc Nation Sports, Krusher Promotions and Andre Ward Promotions and is sponsored by the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Corona Extra, Zappos, JetLux and Monster Products. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets are available on axs.com and the T-Mobile Arena box office.

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Toronto, Canada – Fight Network, the world’s premier 24/7 multi-platform channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, presents an action-packed weekend of premium live mixed martial arts action, beginning tonight, Friday, Nov. 4 at 6 p.m. ET, when TKO 36: RESURRECTION emanates from TOHU Cite des Arts du Cirque in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

On Saturday, Nov. 5 at 8 p.m. ET, Fight Network will televise the live prelims for UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: DOS ANJOS vs. FERGUSON from Mexico City, Mexico.

In the TKO 36: Resurrection main event, former TKO mainstays will collide as former Shawn Tompkins pupil “The Polish Hammer” Chris Horodecki (21-6-1, 1NC) returns for his first bout in over a year against Quebec’s own Derek “The War Machine” Gauthier (7-6), a representative of Montreal’s world-famous Tristar Gym. In other featured bouts, Horodecki’s teammates Jesse “The Body Snatcher” Ronson (15-8) and Malcolm “X” Gordon (8-2) will take center stage against Drysdale Jiu-Jitsu disciple Jimmy Spicuzza (7-3) and Speedy Gym’s Dimitri “No Stress” Waardenburg (11-7), respectively, while House of Champions MMA product Josh Hill (14-2) meets undefeated Tristar Gym disciple Xavier “The Breadman” Alaoui (7-0) and Ontario native Lindsay Garbatt (3-1) clashes with France’s Maguy Berchel (5-1-1) in a featured women’s bout. Top Canadian prospects will also be featured as Jo Vallee (4-1) faces Fritz Paul (10-3) in a middleweight affair, plus TJ “The Truth” Laramie (3-1) throws down with France’s Damien Peltier (6-5) in a featherweight showdown.

The UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: DOS ANJOS vs. FERGUSON prelims include a bantamweight showdown between Mexico’s own Erik “Goyito” Perez (16-6) and well-rounded Brazilian veteran Felipe “Sertanejo” Arantes (18-7-1, 2NC), a featherweight contest pitting Mexican Marco “Psycho” Beltran (8-4) against former UFC title challenger Joe Soto (16-5), a welterweight matchup between Mexico’s Erick “Perry” Montano (8-4) and American Max “Pain” Griffin (12-3), plus bantamweights will kick off the televised festivities when Mexico’s Henry “Bure” Briones (19-5-1) squares off against once-beaten Brazilian Douglas Silva de Andrade (23-1, 1NC).

Formerly known as UCC, TKO MMA was a staple of Canadian MMA in the early-to-mid 2000s and helped launch the careers of pioneers Georges St-Pierre, Patrick Cote, Mark Hominick and Sam Stout, as well as current UFC light heavyweight Steve Bosse. Over the course of its run,m the promotion also featured names like former UFC middleweight champion Rich Franklin, former UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk and former WEC featherweight champion Urijah Faber.

For a full listing of Fight Network’s broadcast schedule, please visit www.fightnetwork.com, follow us on Twitter @fightnet, become a fan on Facebook and visit us on Instagram @fightnet.

Morristown, NJ (November 4, 2016) – Saturday night’s pro boxing event at the Morristown National Guard Armory in Morristown, New Jersey has been cancelled.

Tickets can be returned at the point of purchase

German promoter Sauerland Events has inked a new television deal with ProSiebenSat1, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“We have been working hard in developing new talents in German boxing,” Team Sauerland managing director Freddy Ness said. “This year we saw [former] amateur world champion Jack Culcay win the WBA [junior middleweight] championship. This weekend, 24-year-old Tyron Zeuge challenges for the WBA super middleweight world championship. Next year this deal will give the youngsters a massive platform and keep the momentum going in the search for the new stars whilst also giving a chance for [former light heavyweight titleholder] Juergen Braehmer and [former super middleweight titleholder] Arthur Abraham to win back their world titles in 2017.”

LONDON (Nov. 4, 2016) – Undefeated IBF Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua (17-0, 17 KOs) and challenger Eric Molina (25-3, 19 KOs) went face-to-face Friday at the kickoff press conference at Dorchester Hotel in London to formally announce their heavyweight world title fight on Saturday, Dec. 10, live on SHOWTIME from Manchester Arena in Manchester. There were 17,000 tickets sold on the first day to purchase tickets.

Joshua, a British sensation and the 2012 Olympic Games heavyweight gold medalist, will be making the second defense of the title he won over Charles Martin last April 4. Joshua knocked out previously unbeaten Dominic Breazeale in the seventh round last June 25 in his initial defense.

Molina will be getting his second opportunity at a world title. Molina has won two straight since challenging WBC title holder Deontay Wilder in 2015, including a 10th-round TKO over former world champion Tomasz Adamek last April 4 in Poland.

Here’s what the heavyweights said:

ANTHONY JOSHUA:
“I don’t think that I’ll be rusty. I’m not going to say camp is smooth or great because it’s always tough and exhausting for the body. I needed a break because I live in the gym, it’s what I’ve been doing since I was 18 and I haven’t taken my foot off the gas since. The task is to express myself under the bright lights in the arena and show what we’ve worked on in the dark corners of the gym.

“I started preparing my body for camp and then training for this date. I don’t want to mention Wladimir Klitschko too much because that’s not the relevant opponent – Eric Molina is the man that will stand across the ring from me on December 10. He’s a tough competitor and represents a strong challenge to me. We are competing for my belt and the guys that want to become world champion raise their levels by 50-60 percent.

“There’s nowhere to hide on fight night. There’s no change in my focus for Eric. Wladimir doesn’t enter the equation for me. People will talk about him and I’ll answer the questions, but that’s as far as it goes. He’s not in my mind, Eric is.

“It takes courage to step into the ring. Deontay Wilder is known as a one-punch KO artist and Eric stood up to his power, so it shows that he’s here to push the champion and take my title.

“I don’t get involved in other people’s issues or stories, it’s nothing to do with me. It wasn’t that long ago that no one cared what I was doing, so I don’t really have to prove myself to anyone aside from myself.

“The division has been blown wide open but they’ve been saying that for a while and they will keep saying it until someone dominates the division again. It’s not so much about brand and hype, it’s about guys like Eric that come with true heart and are gladiators and fight for the love of the sport, and leave everything in the ring on fight night.

“There’s a lot at stake and with Sky Sports and SHOWTIME behind us, this is a big stage to show what you have got. I’m serious about what I do and about moving forward. I don’t have a script, I can only speak from the heart; whatever Eric’s destiny is, that’s what will happen on the night. If his destiny is to become heavyweight champion, so be it. But my destiny is to carry on the path I am on and put in a dominant performance on an explosive night of boxing in Manchester.”

ERIC MOLINA:
“I’ve been in these fights before. I have no amateur experience so I’m learning no the job — and I’m getting better every fight. I fought five rounds against Wilder with a busted ankle, so everything you saw from me was done on one ankle. That’s the kind of guy this young man is facing. I fight with everything I’ve got. Even if I’m hurt, I still fight, because I know that one punch at any given moment can win me the fight. Anything can happen in the heavyweight division.

“I knew this fight was coming my way because nobody wants to fight him. Let’s be real. All the other fighters want to go and fight other guys and for the other belts and not face Anthony Joshua. I’m a guy that’s been in with Wilder – no one wants to fight Wilder, but I did, and that’s why I’m in London today and will be in Manchester on Dec. 10 putting it all on the line, body and soul. I want that IBF belt, I don’t have the option to go for another belt or down another route. This is it for me, and that means he’s going to have the toughest fight of his career, I can guarantee that.

“Tomasz Adamek had never been KO’d, so the momentum from that win in Poland was big. I felt it was time to take time off from work and put 100 percent into this.

“Back home, people know me as a certain type of fighter. On day one of my career I lost in the first round and that’s why on the back of my shirt it says ‘The Art Of Bouncing Back.’ Those aren’t just words. Boxing is the most brutal sport when it comes to trying to bounce back. Once you lose, everybody is gone from your side. There are fighters out there that say they want to bounce back but they don’t have the guts to put themselves in a position to do it. I put myself in the fight with Wilder and I went to Poland and beat Adamek to bounce back and show people who I am.

“You have to prove yourself in this sport and then you can claim the rewards. I didn’t have an easy road to get here, I’ve had to do it the hard way and I’ve earned my way here.’’

About Showtime Networks:
Showtime Networks Inc. (SNI), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CBS Corporation, owns and operates the premium television networks SHOWTIME®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ and FLIX®, and also offers SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, THE MOVIE CHANNEL™ ON DEMAND and FLIX ON DEMAND®, and the network’s authentication service SHOWTIME ANYTIME®. Showtime Digital Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNI, operates the stand-alone streaming service SHOWTIME®. SHOWTIME is currently available to subscribers via cable, DBS and telco providers, and as a stand-alone streaming service through Apple®, Roku®, Amazon and Google. Consumers can also subscribe to SHOWTIME via Hulu, Sony PlayStation® Vue and Amazon Prime Video. SNI also manages Smithsonian Networks™, a joint venture between SNI and the Smithsonian Institution, which offers Smithsonian Channel™, and offers Smithsonian Earth™ through SN Digital LLC. SNI markets and distributes sports and entertainment events for exhibition to subscribers on a pay-per-view basis through SHOWTIME PPV. For more information, go to www.SHO.com.

By Norm Frauenheim-

LAS VEGAS – There’s fusion in cooking, music and sometimes fighters. The best of them are often a product of attaining that perfect mix. It’s deliberate, yet looks natural when complete. It’s a process that is beginning to look a lot like Oscar Valdez Jr.

Valdez already has a major title. But his WBO featherweight belt is just the beginning, one ingredient in the evolving face of a new champion who intends to be around a lot longer than an interim title.

“The thing is not to became a world champion, but to stick around as one,’’ Valdez said Thursday at The Wynn during at a news conference for his first title defense on the Manny Pacquiao-Jessie Vargas pay-per-view card at Thomas & Mack on Saturday (6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET).

Valdez is facing an unknown Japanese featherweight, Hiroshige Osawa, who is a WBO-ranked contender fighting in the United States for the first time. Osawa doesn’t appear to be much of a risk to take the title Valdez won in a powerful second-round stoppage of Argentina’s Matias Rueda in July.

But don’t say that to Valdez, who grew up in Tucson and in Nogales on the Mexican side of the border with Arizona. Valdez learned two languages, a couple of cultures and respect for both of them. He looks at Osawa and sees an equal.

“The more I see of him and the way he keeps coming at you, the more I realize he’s a tough opponent,’’ Valdez said.

It would be no surprise if Valdez (21-0, 18 KOs) sees Osawa (30-3-4, 19 KOs) flat on his back sometime early in a scheduled 12 rounder. But it would have been a huge surprise if Valdez had been anything but respectful in interviews before opening bell. He’s as disciplined with his manners as he is with his punches.

“A dedicated, serious young man,’’ his promoter, Bob Arum, said.

A powerful one, too.

His power has quickly caught the attention of the best at 126 pounds. It’s even surprised him.

“To be honest, it has,’’ said Valdez, a two-time Mexican Olympian. “I knew I had some power, but not this kind.’’

The power is reflected in stoppages in all but three of his 21 bouts. Valdez says his father, Oscar Sr., told him that the power is the result of his speed. That speed comes from an unlikely place. His dad told him that it comes from the water.

“We’re swimmers,’’ Valdez said. “When I was a kid, I swam competitively for a few years before I began to spend more time boxing in the gym. I was never big enough to be a competitive swimmer anyway.’’

Yet, he and his father believe his speed is a byproduct of his days in the pool.
Fast hands and fast feet complement each other in a increasingly fluid style that over the last few last bouts appears to flow from round to round and over one opponent after another.

Who’s next? Maybe Nonito Donaire. Donaire is on the undercard Saturday against Jessie Magdaleno, who is managed by Valdez manager Frank Espinoza. If Donaire beats Magdaleno at 122 pounds, he has talked about moving back up to 126, possibly in a bid for Valdez’ title.

“I’m looking for Jessie to win,’’ Espinoza said. “I’ll have a better plan after Saturday night.’’

An alternate plan might be as intriguing as any. Arum is talking to Al Haymon, which means the PBC’s stable of great featherweights – Carl Frampton, Leo Santa Cruz, Lee Selby, Abner Mares and Jesus Cuellar – might be on Valdez’ horizon. Mares faces Cuellar on Dec. 10 in Los Angeles.

“I’d love that fight (Mares),’’ said Espinoza, who managed Mares before he jumped to Haymon. “It would be a great LA fight. But for now, I want to keep Oscar as busy as possible. He really loves to fight. We hope to have him back fighting in March.’’

ORANGE, Calif. (Nov. 3, 2016) – Undefeated 2012 Olympic Bronze Medalist Taras “Real Deal” Shelestyuk (14-0, 9 KOs) of Los Angeles by way of Ukraine checked in at 146.6 lbs. while Chicago’s Jaime Herrera measured 146.2 lbs. at Thursday’s weigh in (Shelestyuk will defend his NABO welterweight title).

Shelestyuk vs. Herrera is the 10-round welterweight main event of a ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader set for Friday, Nov. 4, live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT(delayed on the West Coast) from Omega Products Event Center in Corona, Calif.

In the co-feature, undefeated cruiserweights Constantin Bejenaru (11-0, 4 KOs), of Catskill, N.Y. by way of Moldova, weighed 198.2 lbs. and Stivens “Superman” Bujaj (16-0-1, 11 KOs), of New York, came in at 197.5 lbs. The pair collide in a 10-rounder for thevacant WBC International and WBC Continental Americas titles.

In the opening bout of the telecast, undefeated lightweight Vitor Jones Freitas (12-0, 1 ND, 6 KOs), of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, weighed 134.3 lbs., while challenger and local fan favorite Manuel Mendez (12-1-2, 8 KOs), of Indio, Calif., measured 134.9 lbs. Freitas vs. Mendez is scheduled for 8-rounds.

Tickets for the event promoted by Banner Promotions, Thompson Boxing, Hitz Boxing and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing are priced at $100 (ringside) and $70 (reserved).

Tickets are available for purchase on the day of the event (Friday) at the Omega Products Event Center will call booth beginning at 3:30 PM PT. The Omega Products Event Center is located at 1681 California Ave., Corona, CA 92881.

Photos by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing

FULL WEIGHTS BELOW

Taras Shelestyuk 146.5 – Jimmy Herrera 146.25

Constantin Bejenaru 198.2 – Steve Bujaj 197.5

Vitor Jones Freitas 134.25 – Manuel Mendez 135

Ruben Villa 125.9 – Aaron Lopez 125

Xolisani Ndongeni – Juan Garcia Mendez 136.5

Danny Andujo 114.8 – Saul Sanchez 115

Jerry Larios 143.8 – Jose Gonzalez 142.9

Final quotes (courtesy of SHOWTIME)

TARAS SHELESTYUK

“Herrera is a good fighter, a tough fighter. I know he has defeated some good fighters like Mike Jones, who was a top fighter who’d been off a couple years. But I’m 100 percent ready. I expect a very tough and exciting fight but I expect to be much stronger and smarter.

“I’m excited for all the attention this fight and I are getting. I’ve always known that fans in America have known me but maybe now more than before. I think in the next year, I can become even more well-known.

“I’ve been working on strength and becoming more powerful. I think my boxing skills are already good, but my speed and power are better than before. I feel in sparring that I’m punching harder.

“I like to work the body. I like the fact you land enough of them early, they take a toll late. That’s one thing good about fighting as a pro. I feel good about my career; I hope to be fighting some of the best fighters in the division within a year.

“I’m sure Herrera will probably try and come at me; there’s no chance he can beat me at boxing. I like guys who come forward. They are good for me because I can counter and move side to side. And I’m ready to fight on the inside if necessary.

“I know I can improve on my last ShoBox fight. I made it closer than it should have been. If we had it over again I think I maybe stop him just because of what we’re been working on in the gym.

“Sparring with Shane Mosley has been huge for me. He’s such a great fighter. When I was younger, I’d watch his fights. Now we spar. He’s older but still very good. He knows all the tricks and gives me a lot of advice that helps me in and out of the ring. Everything he’s said to me, I’ve tried to apply.”

JIMMY HERRERA:

“I’ve been working a full two months for this fight so I’m ready. This is going to be a very good test for both of us, a great fight. He’s a good European boxer, another unbeaten for me. But I don’t feel like I’m coming in as the underdog at all. He’s got his strengths, I’ve got my strengths.

“There has to be a purpose for every punch. Each has to count. If he opens up and makes a mistake, I have to take advantage. I need to get him out of his rhythm early, force him out of his comfort zone and make him fight my fight.

“I’ll be the aggressor. But I’d love if he was the aggressor. I just think, though, knowing him, he’s going to try to box and win the rounds that way. I work all the time coming forward and that’s what I’ll do tomorrow.

“A kid from Chicago, like me, it’s hard to get anywhere in boxing without connections, so finally after fighting so long without a manager, I signed with Cameron Dunkin. I always knew I could be a good boxer, but never figured I’d be a boxer. But look at me know, I’m fighting on SHOWTIME and this fight couldn’t be coming along at a better time.”

CONSTANTIN BEJENARU:

“I feel your amateur career gives you a good foundation, like a beginner, but once you turn pro it’s a total different game. It doesn’t matter who has more experience as an amateur. As professionals, we all have to do our jobs here.

“I don’t know Bujaj, but I saw his fight with Junior Wright so I know he is tough.

“I feel this is a big step for me. He’s 16-0, a good fighter who can punch or box, and this is for a belt. This a good fight for both of us.

“I work hard for every fight and this was no exception. We know we have to pay attention to detail. This is a dangerous guy but I am very confident.

“I definitely don’t expect an easy fight. I have to press the action. I need to make him as uncomfortable as I can.

“I don’t have a lot of pro knockouts but boxing isn’t just about power. Boxing is intelligence and mental; it’s not just a street fight for me.

“This is my second fight on ShoBox. I’m so happy to be back again after that last win over Zubov. The goal is to keep busy, come back early next year and then sometime by next year be ready to fight for a major title of some type.”

STEVE BUJAJ:

“I’m looking forward to this fight, my first on network TV, to see where I’m at. The way I feel, I’ve got everything to win, everything to lose. This either pushes me to the next level, or I stay where I’m at.

“I’m ready for any kind of fight. I’m a versatile fighter and I will have the height advantage.

“I feel ready now for the bigger fights, the additional exposure on SHOWTIME, the ratings, the titles, all of it. But I definitely will be even more after Friday.

“I don’t feel this is going 10 rounds. I feel I’ll break him down and eventually stop him. I feel I’ve got the skills and definitely the heart. I’m healthy and ready to go.

“I saw his last fight on ShoBox, and thought it was pretty decent. He’s pretty short for a cruiserweight. Although we’re both from New York, I’d never heard of him before.

“Camp went awesome with lots of sparring. In Las Vegas. I trained with Mayweather fighters like Ronald Gavril, Badou Jack and Caleb Plant. It’s been four years since I’ve fought a left-hander but I do not consider it factor.”

VITOR JONES FREITAS:

“I thank God and both my uncles for helping me get to where I am, for teaching me and for guiding me in every step of my life and in boxing. Without their influence and what they’ve done for me since I was 11, I feel I’d be dead today.

“I’m very excited about this fight and the opportunity to fight better guys. This for me is all about taking advantage of the opportunity.

“I’m getting more and more experience. My goal is to work hard and, like my Uncle Acelino, make good fights and become a world champion”

“We’ve studied Mendez’ fighting style and have a lot of respect for his trainer, Joel Diaz. I know Mendez is very strong and comes forward. I don’t know if he likes it when his opponents attack from the sides but I’m ready to fight him on the sides, head-on and toe-to-toe.”

MANUEL MENDEZ:

“This is my ninth fight with Joel and we know each other very well. Through the bad and good, he’s been there for me.

“I’m sure Freitas has confidence in his ability but like any other undefeated fighter he does well until he hits the wall, which is what Joel wants me to make him do. He wants me to punish him, take my time.

“I feel have I have natural power, can take a punch and have heart. Hit me as much as you want, but watch out once I connect and turn things around. My goal always is to break them down, starting with the body.

“I may not have the pedigree of some of these guys, but I’m learning defense, how to pace myself, staying poised and most importantly, just how to fight. The more experience, the more mature you become.

“Tomorrow I just want to be me and listen to Joel in the corner. I wouldn’t want to be standing in from of me. If he wants to stand and bang, let’s do it. I guarantee he’s the one going back after the first few moments.”

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

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 67 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, 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.

BATESVILLE, ARKANSAS – November 3, 2016 – As any reader of boxing comment sections, message boards and Twitter can attest, boxing fans are ready to see today’s champions step up and fight the best. Rogelio Casarez (13-5, 5KO) is the anti-cherry picker, dubbed “El Loco,” perhaps because he flew to China as an underdog to face an undefeated fighter, or maybe because he wants to put the NABF title he took from that fighter on the line as soon as possible in a fight with any of the top fighters in his division.

At 26 years old, Casarez knows the clock is ticking. “I started boxing late, at 20 years old. I always loved to fight, and I decided to learn the fundamentals and make a run at a title.” He didn’t waste any time, facing Jamel Herring in only his seventh fight, a fight that ended in a second round stoppage. “About an hour after the fight, as we sat on the balcony at the Hard Rock, Rogelio promised me he’d get a title,” recalled co-manager Brandon Foster of Bad Dawg Boxing Management. “And he did. He went to China and won the NABF title. He doesn’t want the easy fights. He wants a World Title, and he’ll take all comers to get it.”

Since his 12-round unanimous decision win over Romanakit Boontree (8-1, 5KO) in Chengdu, China in July, Casarez has had one fight in his adopted hometown of Batesville, Arkansas, which ended in a unanimous decision win over twelve rounds versus Louisiana’s Blake Franklin (12-9-2, 3KO). Casarez is the current holder of the NABF Junior Lightweight Title and the IPBU World Super Lightweight Title.

The ride has been unexpected and exciting for the fighter, who was born and raised in Guatamala, where his parents still live. “I began working with my dad on our family farm when I was six years old. At 16, I left to the United States to make a better life. My parents are very proud of me, and none of us could have foreseen that I would end up fighting in China, and doing the things I’ve been fortunate enough to do during my boxing career,” said Casarez.

“I went to China and won this title. I wasn’t supposed to, but I did what I had to do, and by the grace of God, I won. Now I want an opportunity to show the rest of the world what I can do, and I’m ready to put my title on the line to do it,” said Casarez. “I’m calling on promoters, matchmakers, managers and networks to give me that shot. Let the other guys pick cherries. I’m here to fight.”

For more information on Bad Dawg Boxing Management, contact Brandon Foster at 870-613-4585.

LAS VEGAS (November 3, 2016) – The remarkable journey of Demond “Body Shot” Brock, from prison into the boxing ring, has led him to a 10-round main event showdown Friday night, November 18, with North American Boxing Association (NABA) United States lightweight champion Reynaldo Blanco (13-2, 7 KOs) in the latest installment of the popular “Knockout Night at the D” series, airing (9 p.m. PT / 12 a.m. ET) on CBS Sports Network live from inside the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center tent.

The “Knockout Night at the D” series, presented by the D Las Vegasand Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions.

Hall of Fame announcers Jim “J.R.” Ross and Al Bernstein will call the action from ringside, along with roving reporter Sean Wheelock, on CBS Sports Network. Known for introducing the top stars of professional wrestling to the ring for 20 years, Justin Roberts will join the legendary CBS Sports Network broadcast team in Las Vegas for the Nov. 18 show to enhance the entrances of the “Knockout Night at the D” boxing stars of tomorrow.

Brock (12-3-1, 4 KOs), fighting out of New Orleans, learned how to box in the Louisiana State Penitentiary, where he was sentenced at the age of 15 for armed robbery. He served a 14 ½-year sentenced and he ended up with a 39-1 record with 17 knockouts. Upon his release, Brock won the Ringside Tournament and he was the No. 1 ranked welterweight in the United States. Brock reached the quarterfinals of the U.S. Olympic Boxing Trials and finished his amateur career with an outstanding 54-3 record. He left prison a completely different person; much calmer and cerebral, which he totally attributes to becoming a boxer.

(L-R) — Brock & Jones
(photo by Manny “Mitts” Murillo / RJJ Boxing Promotions)

In his last fight (June 10), Brock defeated previously unbeaten Chuy Gutierrez (14-0-1), headlining a “Knockout Night at the D” show at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, retaining his World Boxing Council (WBC) United States lightweight title in his first title defense. Brock, 35, originally captured his title belt in 2015, by way of an 8-round unanimous decision over
Oscar Valenzuela (9-1-1).

Living legend and 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. has been training Brock in Pensacola, Florida, for his Nov. 18th fight with Blanco. “I love Demond’s energy and his will to learn,” Jones noted. “He has been very enthusiastic, doing everything asked of him and more, each day in the gym. Everybody will see what a talent Demond is November 18th. He has a lot of upside in this sport and the heart of a champion.”

“Having an opportunity to train with somebody like Roy Jones, Jr. is a great opportunity for me,” Brock said from training camp. “I’m learning new things every day from one of the greatest boxers of all-time. This is truly a blessing and I’m grateful to have everybody on my team working so hard to make me the best I can be.”

Former World Boxing Organization (WBO) Latino junior middleweight title-holder Daniel “El Duro” Rosario Cruz (11-1, 10 KOs), a legitimate knockout artist from Puerto Rico, meets past Mexico welterweight champion an proven upset specialist Norberto Gonzalez (22-8, 13 KOs) in the 8-round co-feature.

Rising Las Vegas junior lightweight Randy Moreno (6-0, 5 KOs) steps up in class in the television opener in his first scheduled 6-round bout against Mexican veteran Daniel Perales (7-5-1, 4 KOs)

Keeping with its goal to showcase young talent based in Las Vegas, junior flyweight Marina “Rocky” Ramirez (2-0), fighting out of Idaho, and pro-debuting cruiserweight Jason Beauchamp are slated to be fighting in separate 4-round bouts.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.

Tickets, priced at $1,000.00 VIP booth (includes 15 admissions), $50.00 VIP ringside, $25.00 and $15.00 general admission, are on sale at www.Ticketmaster.com or www.DLVEC.com. Taxes and fees apply to all sold tickets.

Doors open at 6:00 p.m. PT with the opening bout scheduled at 7:00 p.m. PT.

The “Knockout Night at the D” series was developed in partnership with the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center and Neon Star Media.

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.dlvec.com, www.thed.com, www.royjonesjrboxing.com, www.knockoutnightboxing.com

Twitter: @thedlasvegas, @dlvEventsCenter, @DerekJStevens, @BoxingatheDLV, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

Instagram: @dlvec, @thedlasvegas, @RoyJonesJrBoxing

Facebook: www.Facebook.com/dlvec, www.Facebook.com/thedlasvegas

Follow these fighters on Twitter: @bodyshot brock and @_randymoreno

RIVAL BOXING GEAR & EQUIPMENT is the official apparel and gloves partner for the “Knockout Night at the D” series. www.rivalboxing.com, @rivalboxinggear
About the D Las Vegas: the D Las Vegas delivers the fresh, energetic attitude and fun atmosphere synonymous with downtown Las Vegas. The new casino hotel boasts 629 remodeled rooms and suites and a unique two-level casino featuring modern and vintage floors. Cocktails, beer and frozen beverages abound inside the casino at LONGBAR and on the Fremont Street Experience at D Bar. the D offers contemporary American fare at D Grill, Detroit’s legendary Coney Dogs at American Coney Island and premium steaks and authentic Italian dishes at Joe Vicari’s Andiamo Italian Steakhouse. The Showroom at the D Las Vegas features outstanding entertainment ranging from award-winning dinner theater and Broadway productions to music, comedy and more. Follow the D on Facebook and Twitter.

About Downtown Las Vegas Events Center: Located at the corner of Third St. and Carson Ave. across from the D Las Vegas, the Downtown Las Vegas Events Center can accommodate up to 11,000 guests and features state-of-the-art stage, sound and lighting. The open-air design is inviting to both tourists and locals and offers the perfect spot for concerts, conventions and other large-scale events. Embracing the uninhibited spirit of Downtown Las Vegas, the new venue plays host to a line-up of curated events including premier concerts, food festivals and more. The venue is also the first entertainment arena in Las Vegas to accept Bitcoin as currency. For more information, visit www.dlvec.com or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @dlveventscenter.

About Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions: Co-founded in 2013 by 10-time world champion Roy Jones, Jr. and Keith Veltre, Roy Jones, Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions is on its way to reinventing boxing. Based in Las Vegas, Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions is climbing to the top at a fast pace, adding young talent to its growing stable such as undefeated super welterweight John Vera and former 3-time world super bantamweight champion Joseph Agbeko, along with Tony Lopez and Hanzel Martinez, lightweight Demond Brock, super featherweight Randy Moreno, cruiserweight Irsael Duffus, bantamweight Max Ornelas, super lightweight Emanuel Robles, middleweight Rolando Garza and light heavyweight Adrian Taylor.

About Neon Star Media LLC: Neon Star Media is a marketing and content company that creates highly effective brand-integration experiences for our clients, executed through a unique “story-telling” approach that empowers client’s product messaging to soar while delivering results. At Neon Star Media, we maximize client media spends by leveraging our relationships with various sporting events, cable channels, digital platforms and other social media outlets. We work with our clients to engage, endorse and advance their message with audiences on all platforms 24/7. Visit us on Twitter @Neonstarmedia or Facebook www.facebook.com/Neon-Star-Media-378687919005532/

Dillian Whyte and Dereck Chisora had to be separated by security and filming was halted at Sky Sports studios this evening as they faced-off in the ‘Gloves Are Off’ ahead of their WBC World Heavyweight title eliminator at the Manchester Arena on December 10, live on Sky Sports Box Office in the UK and on SHOWTIME in the US.

The bitter London rivals sat face-to-face for 22 tension-filled minutes of filming with Johnny Nelson the man in the middle, before Whyte accused Chisora of ducking a clash with Anthony Joshua – lighting the fuse for the pair to leap to their feet, leading to security stepping in and filming ending.

Whyte and Chisora had earlier come head-to head for their first press conference for their Manchester showdown, and while the pair behaved there was a sense of unease in the air that boiled over as they renewed hostilities at Sky Sports.

“After a fairly mild press conference, Dillian and Dereck made their way to Sky Sports HQ to film the ‘Gloves Are Off’,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “We were 22 minutes into an entertaining exchange when tempers flared and the pair had to be separated by security.

“We decided to cancel filming and let the fighters calm down and return to camp. The show will still be aired on Sky Sports in the build-up to December 10.”

Whyte and Chisora clash on a huge bill in Manchester as Anthony Joshua MBE defends his IBF World Heavyweight title against American challenger Eric Molina.

Scott Quigg returns to action after treatment on his broken jaw following his unification blockbuster with Carl Frampton, and the Bury star moves up to Featherweight as he looks to regain his status as a World champion.

Kal Yafai can become Birmingham’s first World champion but the unbeaten 27 year old faces a tough task to rip the WBA Super-Flyweight title against Luis Concepcion, the two-weight World champion that will enter the ring in his 11th World title outing.

Irish amateur sensation Katie Taylor boxes for the second time in the paid ranks after making her pro debut at The SSE Arena, Wembley on November 26, Heavyweight wrecking ball ‘King Kong’ Luis Ortiz fights in Europe for the second time after clashing with Malik Scott in Monte-Carlo on November 12 and Hosea Burton will defend his British Light-Heavyweight title against Frank Buglioni.

Tickets go on general sale at midday on Friday November 4. Tickets priced £40 to £500 will be available from http://www.manchester-arena.com/ and on 0844 847 8000 VIP tickets are £800 and available exclusively from Matchroom Boxing www.matchroomboxing.com.

Face value tickets for December 10 are also be available from http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ . StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua.

LOS ANGELES (November 3, 2016) – On November 4th, International Boxing Association Featherweight Title holder and rising Golden Boy Promotions contender Manuel “Tino” Avila (21-0, 8 KOs) will take on former WBO International featherweight title holder Jose Ramirez (27-5-2, 16 KOs) headlining popular SoCal boxing sensation LA FIGHT CLUB for a featherweight bout scheduled for ten rounds.

In anticipation for Avila’s return to the ring, Golden Boy Promotions caught up with the fighter for an exclusive Q & A session.Below is what Avila had to say:

You recently made the shift to start fighting in the featherweight division. Why did you decide to do this?

I decided to make the shift from bantamweight to featherweight because I loved the extra power I felt in my punches. Being a featherweight feels right to me – my body is perfect for this class. It’s also opened up a wider range of fighters to take on. With more fighters to take on, I can improve my boxing and move up within the ranks.

What do you know about your opponent?

I know that he will come forward in the ring – in boxing everyone has a chance to win, and just as much as I want to win, he will to. He’s fought big opponents, and I am expecting him to put on the pressure and to land punches that will hurt. On paper, he’s a tougher opponent that I have faced in the past, but I’m confident I can defeat him.

What does boxing mean to you?

Boxing is a way of life. I dedicate all I have to it – I work multiple jobs to maintain my family, and on top of that I still find the time to be a professional boxer. Boxing is what motivates me and wakes me up in the morning, and especially with my new child on the way – I need to make it to the top. At twenty-four, I know where my priorities are.

Looking at your career, where would you say you are?

I think I am a couple of fights away from a title shot. I am at a better weight suited for my body, and I’ve been more active. This will be my third fight as a featherweight, and I’m excited for the opportunity to maintain my undefeated status at 126 pounds. I’m in a stacked division, and there are many different opportunities for me to develop more experience.

What have been some of your most notable fights?

I think my most notable and memorable fight was against Yoandris Salinas for the interim NABF super bantamweight title. Going into the fight, I was called the underdog, and was expected to lose. However, I was able to take over the fight and get the stoppage. I would also say that the fight against Ricky Lopez was important to build me up because it was the first time I got a cut on my face, and was able to finish the fight. Additionally, my fight with Enrique Quevedo was important because I hurt both of my hands, and was still able to get the unanimous decision.

What kind of fighter would you describe yourself as?

I am calm in the ring. I don’t feel pressure that easy. I would also describe myself as focused. I can take on anyone. I’m also very resilient, I’m able to withstand tough opponents and prove that I am strong in the ring. When I’m not in the ring, I’m fun, goofy, and love life.

What are you looking forward to this holiday season?

I’m so excited to finally eat at Thanksgiving this year! The past couple of years I’ve always been training for a fight in December, and I am looking forward to eating everything and anything from tamales to posole, to the turkey and stuffing. I’m also looking forward to spending time with my wife and family. I am beyond thankful for them and all the support they have given me over the years. Especially my wife – she understands more than anyone the sacrifice it takes to be a boxer.

What are you looking forward to in 2017?

I’m so excited for my beautiful daughter to be born, and to be a dad. I’m also excited to keep fighting despite the obstacles, and be able to hopefully get a chance at a title fight. I want the recognition. I want people to know who I am.

LA FIGHT CLUB: Avila vs. Ramirez, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by “Tecate, BORN BOLD,” and Casa Mexico Tequila. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV Boxeo Estelar broadcast will air live on Friday, November 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT and will stream live simultaneously on estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios: youtube.com/FenomenoStudios. The Ring TV live stream will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV and become a fanon Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB and #BoxeoEstelar.

Tickets for LA FIGHT CLUB are starting at only $20 with Flex Passes for multiple fight packages, Group Tickets and Knockout Experience upgrade are available for purchase now at www.goldenboypromotions.com, the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page, by calling 213-233-2957 or by emailing LAFightClub@goldenboypromotions.com. Mark your calendars and purchase tickets in advance before they sell out for the remaining dates taking place November 4 and December 2.

A war of words erupted between bitter Irish Welterweight rivals Tyrone McKenna (11-0-1 3 KOs) and Sean Creagh (4-0 2 KOs) at today’s heated press conference at Belfast’s Malone Lodge Hotel. The undefeated foes meet face-to-face in the ring this Saturday, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

McKenna has been a busy boxer lately. Three fights in just over four months have kept the Belfast man extremely active at a pivotal stage of his career. On Saturday McKenna faces the toughest test of his career against the supremely confident Creagh. Both men are putting their undefeated records on the line in what promises to be an explosive contest.

“He hasn’t tasted defeat yet so he’s very confident going into this fight,” said McKenna. “He’s been running his mouth on Twitter in the build-up to Saturday’s fight but he knows deep down that he’s scared of me. He can’t beat me; not a chance.

“After I knock out Sean Creagh I’ll be pushing for domestic titles. This fight isn’t going past four rounds. I’m too good for him and we both know it. I can deal with anything he throws at me; there’s only going to be one winner come Saturday night.”

“I’m really looking forward to this one,” said Creagh. “He says that I’m a White-Collar pro so he better back that up on Saturday. All I can say to Tyrone is you better leave your ASICS at home, you can’t knock me out if your’re on the back foot.

“If you look through his record, who has he fought? He’s only had three stoppage wins in twelve fights. He goes on like he’s Gennady Golovkin but he doesn’t have any power. I can’t wait to show everyone what I’m all about in front of the BoxNation cameras. I’m going to knock Tyrone out.”

BoxNation, the Channel of Champions, will televise this show on Sky (SD Ch.437 and HD Ch.490), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon).

Go to www.boxnation.com to see how you can watch this fight and more live!

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ST. PETERSBURG, Russia (November 3, 2016) – The M-1 Challenge 72 main card is set with the recent announcement of four interesting bouts, headlined by M-1 Challenge welterweight champion Alexey Kunchenko’s title defense against former title-holder Murad “Hunter” Abduleav, November 18 in Moscow, Russia.

M-1 Challenge 72 will be streamed live from Moscow in high definition on www.M1Global.TV. Viewers will be able to watch the preliminary fights and main card by logging on to register at www.M1Global.TV. Fans may watch all the action on their computers, as well as on Android and Apple smart phones and tablets.

In addition to the rematch between Kunchenko (14-0-0, M-1: 6-0-0) and Abdulaev (15-4-0, M-1: 3-1-0), the lightweight fight between former champion Artiom Damkovsky and Alexey “Ataman” Makhno had already been announced by M-1 Global.

Undefeated Russian middleweight Artem Frolov (7-0-0, M-1: 4-0-0), a strong striker and Combat Sambo master, faces American opponent Luigi “The Italian Tank” Fiorvanti (26-14-0, M-1: 4-3-0) battle with future title fight implications on the line for the winner.

Frolov is coming off a three-round unanimous decision over Rafael Xavier at M-1 Challenge 70, while Fiorvanti is considered a good all-around fighter who is a former M-1 Challenge middleweight title challenger.

In a featherweight bout, fully recovered Kurbaneli Abdusalamor (6-2-0, M-1: 4-0-0) faces fellow Russian Timur Nagibin (7-2-0, M-1: 3-1-0). Abdusalamov has won four fights in a row, including his last 13 months ago against American Lee Morrison, which ended in a 3-round majority decision for the Russian fighter before he was sidelined with injuries.

Lightweight Damir Ismagulov (8-2-0, M-1: 4-1-0), a native of Kazakhstan fighting out of Russia, meets Brazilian Rubenilton “Rubinho” Pereira (16-3-0, M-1: 0-1-0). Ismagulov has won his last three fights, including a 3rd-round knockout of Raul Tutarauli in the M-1 Challenge 66 Fight of the Night. Pereira is coming off a non-title fight loss by decision to M-1 Challenge lightweight champion Alexander Butenko.

Croatian middleweight Kristijan “Klitschko” Perak (9-3-1, M-1: 0-2-1) returns to action against Talekh “The Azerbaijan Terminator” Nadzhafzads (4-1-0, M-1: 2-0-0). Perak is seeking his first M-1 victory, Nadzhafzads hopes to improve his unbeaten M-1 record to 3-0.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Nov. 18 – M-1 Challenge 72: Kunchenko vs. Abdulaev in Moscow, Russia
Dec. 9 – M-1 Challenge 73: Emeev vs. Tokov in Ingushetia, Russia

INFORMATION

www.M1Global.tv
www.mixfight.ru
www.wmmaa.org

Twitter & Instagram:

@M1GlobalNews
@VFinkelchtein
@M1Global

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/M-1-GlobalNews
ABOUT M-1 GLOBAL: Founded in 1997, M-1 Global has established itself in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as the premier entity for discovering and developing the world’s next-generation of superstar fighters. With its office in St Petersburg, Russia, the M-1 brand has staged more than 160 events worldwide, including M-1 Selection, M-1 Challenge, M-1 Global and M-1 Global HWGP events, in addition to co-promoting Strikeforce events and M-1 Global on the U.S. network, Showtime. Captivating live, television and broadband audiences with its superior production values and match-ups, M-1 Global events have featured some of the sport’s top names, including legendary heavyweight Fedor Emelianenko, Andrei Arlovski, Gegard Mousasi, Alistair Overeem, Keith Jardine, Ben Rothwell, Melvin Manhoef, Sergei Kharitonov, Aleksander Emelianenko, Roman Zentsov, Yushin Okami, Mike Pyle, Denis Kang, Martin Kampmann, Amar Suloev, Chalid Arrab and Stephan Struve. 2016 has been another sensational year of world-class competition, featuring a full calendar of Challenge events, fueled by a talent-rich contention system ranking M-1 Global Champions among the greatest fighters in the sport.

ABOUT M-1GLOBAL.TV: Enjoy MMA action now in high definition brought to you by M-1Global.tv, offering only the best fights from M-1 Global and other MMA organizations. M-1Global.tv is a great platform developed specifically to bring together the most exhaustive fight video database. It also provides an easy and intuitive interface, helping everyone to start using the platform in no time while avoiding any spoilers. Besides watching the past fights on demand at any time convenient to the customer, viewers are able to enjoy the action LIVE, all available to M-1Global.tv users through a low-priced month to month digital subscription. Your world of action. Anytime!

Baltimore, MD (November 3, 2016) – Baltimore Boxing Promotions will host a special evening of Olympic style boxing that will help raise funds for a cancer stricken 8-year-old while also honoring one of their own fallen fighters Thursday, November 10 at Michael’s Eighth Ave in Glen Burnie, MD.

Named “Don’t Blink,” Baltimore Boxing Promotions donated a significant number of tickets to the family of Nicholas Tasker, an 8-year-old football standout battling a rare abdomen cancer that spread to his lungs. The Tasker family resold the tickets and kept 100% of the money to help offset his medical bills. To further assist on fight night, Baltimore Boxing is hosting a 50/50 raffle and silent auction.

Baltimore Boxing Promotions will also pay homage to the late Mike “American Dream” Dietrich. Dietrich, a fan favorite in Baltimore who was a close friend of Baltimore Boxing CEO Jake Smith, passed away unexpectedly in 2010. During fight night, Tasker will receive the Mike Dietrich American Dream Award by Baltimore Boxing’s Steve Wheeler.

“Cancer is a very dangerous and scary disease, even more so when a young child with his entire life ahead of him is battling it,” said Jake Smith. “When I heard about Nicholas’ story, I made it a mission not only to help personally but have our loyal fans give to a family in need. Nicholas is a real warrior with a great spirit. He will get through this.”

Smith is also glad that he will honor a fallen friend.

“Mike Dietrich was literally like family to me. He went on vacation with me and we spent countless hours together in the gym. Anybody that knew him remembers his friendly personality, which made him one of the biggest local ticket draws. He was not only a pleasure to work with as a fighter, he was an important person in my life that tragically left us way too young. Every year, the American Dream award is awarded in his honor and will continue to be as long as I’m promoting.”

Headlining the card is a heavyweight title match between “Dangerous” Dallas Butts and Brian “Bam Bam” Haneschlager. The two previously met in an intense match, with Butts taking a competitive decision.

The undercard will feature popular locals Clayton Fraser, Ameila Moore and Richie Hammons.

Tickets from $25 are on sale now by calling 410-375-9175 or going to http://www.baltimoreboxing.com/events.

Those who are unable to make the event can still donate by going to https://www.youcaring.com/brittany-trail-and-richard-tasker-657517.

With a 43-year history of televising the biggest fights in pro boxing, HBO Sports takes an in-depth look at 2016’s most-anticipated matchup of undefeated fighters as they prepare for their light heavyweight unification title fight in ROAD TO KOVALEV/WARD. The special debuts SATURDAY, NOV. 12 at 12:30 a.m. ET/PT, immediately following the “HBO Boxing After Dark” replay that begins at 11:00 p.m.

Other HBO playdates: Nov. 13 (11:45 a.m., 4:00 a.m.), 14 (8:45 a.m., 2:30 p.m.), 16 (5:00 p.m., 12:30 a.m.), 17 (3:15 a.m.), 18 (6:45 p.m.) and 19 (5:15 p.m.)

HBO2 playdates: Nov. 15 (3:40 p.m., 11:35 p.m.), 17 (9:00 p.m.), 18 (1:00 a.m.) and 19 (10:50 a.m.)

The special will also be available on HBO NOW, HBO GO and HBO On Demand, and at hbo.com/boxing, as well as other new media platforms.

Russian-born Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-0-1, 26 KOs), 33, has taken over the light heavyweight division in meteoric fashion with an aggressive style and overwhelming knockout power. He certified his status as an elite fighter two years ago by dominating ring legend Bernard Hopkins. Now, after locking up three title belts, Kovalev is looking to take his superb career to the next level.

Hailing from Oakland, Cal., 32-year-old Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (30-0, 15 KOs) was a super middleweight champion before his recent move up to light heavyweight. Ward’s domination of the 168-pound division included wins over Chad Dawson, Carl Froch, Arthur Abraham, Allan Green and Mikkel Kessler. Undefeated since age 14, he is the last American male to win an Olympic gold medal (2004) in boxing. Ward boasts a wide assortment of skills that gives him an edge with many seasoned boxing observers.

The special visits the training camps of Kovalev and Ward as they prepare for their light heavyweight unification title showdown.

ROAD TO KOVALEV/WARD is narrated by Liev Schreiber.

“Kovalev vs. Ward” takes place Saturday, Nov. 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Los Vegas, NV and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. (ET)/6:00 p.m. (PT).

For more information, visit hbo.com/boxing; become a fan on Facebook at facebook.com/HBOBoxing; and follow on Twitter and Instagram at @HBOBoxing. Follow the conversation using #KovalevWard.

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Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist Claressa Shields took to social media today to announce the opponent for her much anticipated pro debut on the lead-off freeview telecast of Kovalev-Ward “Pound For Pound” on Saturday, Nov. 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Shields is set to face decorated fellow American Franchon Crews in a four-round middleweight bout, with each round timed at two-minutes. This will not be the first time the two have faced off. In their first matchup Shields, then a 16 year old, upset Crews, the top-ranked American women middleweight, during the 2012 Olympic Trials, the first U.S. team trials for women’s boxing. Crews will also be making her professional debut.

Fans can catch the freeview telecast which includes the live Shields vs. Crews bout, beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT on the Pay-Per-View events channel prior to the official telecast, and to be announced cable, satellite, and telco channels. The freeview will also be available through livestreaming on HBO Boxing’s YouTube channel. Tickets for Nov. 19 are available at AXS.com and the T-Mobile Arena Box Office.

Philadelphia, PA—A pair of cruiserweights hoping to make some noise in the division—Lamont Capers and Garrett Wilson—collide in a six-round fight Friday evening, Dec. 2, at the 2300 Arena in South Philly.
Topping the eight-fight card is a 10-round junior lightweight fight with Tevin Farmer, of North Philadelphia, defending his NABF junior lightweight title against Dardan Zenunaj, of Albania. First fight is 7 pm.
Capers (left), 25, of Hawley, PA, turned more than a few heads earlier this year when he upset Nick Kisner, of Baltimore, MD, over eight rounds in Atlantic City, NJ. Kisner’s record was 16-2-1 at the time, Capers was 5-8.
After following the win over Kisner with another victory, this time in Philadelphia against Pedro Martinez, Hawley goes after the big one when he takes on Wilson, a former top contender and a man considered to be the “policeman” of the cruiserweight division.
“Fighting a big name (like Wilson) is exciting” Capers said. “I am looking forward to testing my skills against someone who has been through it already. I am ready and there is nothing to be afraid of, whether it’s in my backyard, his backyard or anyone else’s backyard. It’s all a mind game to me and if I can overcome it then I will be comfortable.
“A win over Garrett Wilson will boost my career and lead to greater fights. I am not intimidated. I have God on my side and I have not been intimidated by any fighter. Most of the guys I fought had winning records. Those I lost to wouldn’t fight me a second time now that my mindset has changed for the better. I’m getting hyped for this fight just by talking about it. We’ll see who is better, me or him. Not taking anything away from anyone but we will see who has been training the hardest.”
Wilson (right), 34, of South Philadelphia, is an eight-year pro with a 16-11-1 record, 9 K0s. He is a former USBA and NABF cruiserweight champion and is known for fighting the best cruiserweights and, on occasion, heavyweights in the world. Only twice in his 28-fight career has he faced an opponent with a losing record.
Among his victims are Omar Sheika, Andres Taylor and Chuck Mussachio and he gave heavyweight title challenger Czar Glazkov all he could handle in 2013, losing a 10-round decision in a fight Wilson took on 72 hours’ notice.
The only foe common to Capers and Wilson is Pedro Martinez, whom Wilson twice beat, once by decision, once by knockout.
Capers could be catching Wilson at the right time since the Philadelphian is coming off a pair of losses to Keith Tapia and Guillermo Jones.
“Not sure I really lost to Keith Tapia,” Wilson said. “It could have been a draw. I definitely beat Guillermo Jones. Everyone there (Pittsburgh, PA) knew I won the fight and they booed the decision but Jones was with Don King so what can you do.
“That’s all behind me. My goal now is to simply hurt people. I have nothing left to prove; I just want to hurt people. That’s my goal!”

ABOUT DECEMBER 2

The Capers-Wilson fight is part of the big Tevin Farmer vs. Dardan Zenunaj Philly Fight Night at the 2300 Arena, located at 2300 South Swanson Street in South Philadelphia (between Ritner & Porter, Front and 2nd Streets). The Dec. 2 card is sponsored by Parx Casino and Coors Light. Doors open at 6 pm; first of eight fights at 7pm. Tickets are $40, $50 and $75 and can be purchased by calling Peltz Boxing (215-765-0922) and 2300 Arena (267-273-0945). Tickets also can be purchased online at www.2300arena.com. The Dec. 2 card is promoted by Peltz Boxing, DiBella Entertainment, BAM Boxing and Joe Hand Promotions.

PHILADELPHIA (November 3, 2016) – This Friday undefeated world champion Danny “Swift” Garcia will host a canned food drive in an effort to fight hunger at the Xfinity Store (3903 Aramingo Ave.) in Philadelphia.

Garcia will be host the food drive beginning at 4pm and will be at the store until 6pm

Garcia, who will meet Samuel Vargas in a 10-round welterweight bout on Saturday, November 12 at the Liacouras Center, has teamed up during this promotion with Philabundance, the region’s largest hunger relief organization, to arrange a regional food drive, collecting most-needed items, such as tuna and vegetables. Fans have been encouraged to drop off canned goods at the Liacouras Center (1776 N Broad St) and the DSG Boxing Gym (3731 Jasper St). Additionally, $10 from each ticket sold has been donated and will provide 20 meals per ticket for people in need.

WHO: Danny Garcia, undefeated welterweight champion

What: Danny Garcia will meet with his fans as he hosts a canned food drive for this in an area of need.

Where: Xfinity Store
3903 Aramingo Ave.
Philadelphia, PA.

When: Friday, November 4th at 4pm – 6 pm

Tickets for the live event on November 12th, which is promoted by DSG Promotions and King’s Promotions, are priced at $200, $100, $75, $50 and $35 and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit LiacourasCenter.com/events or call 800-298-4200.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.spike.com/shows/premier-boxing-champions. Follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @DannySwift, @SpikeTV, @SpikeSports @KingsBoxing_ and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions. Follow the conversation using #fight4philly. PBC on Spike is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Top ranked has signed 16 year-old amateur star Gabriel Flores Jr. to a promotional contract, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“Why did we sign a 16½-year-old — I think is because the younger we sign fighters the longer the guys in Top Rank feel they’ll have me around,” the 84-year-old Bob Arum joked at the final news conference for the Manny Pacquiao-Jessie Vargas undercard at the Wynn resort.

“I think he’s the youngest fighter Top Rank has ever signed. He’s a tremendous prospect, ranked No. 1 in his weight division in the amateur ranks. He has great natural skills and ability. Our matchmakers believe that will make him a star.”

“I know a lot of people have high expectations of me and I plan on exceeding all of them,” said Flores, who started boxing at age 7. “It wasn’t easy getting to this point. I lost my mother at the age of 12. It was gang-violence-related. It took my mother away from me. She got shot in the back. They said if she would have made it she would have been paralyzed. She didn’t make it, but right now, today, she’s looking down on me and she’s smiling right now.”

“I could have just gave up on my dreams but giving up on my dreams would have been giving up on my mother,” Flores said. “I’m just grateful to be in this position and want to make her proud.”

“My mom wasn’t the only one I lost in my family,” said Flores, one of six children. “I lost my uncle to gang violence. That’s why I look forward to fighting in my hometown so I can promote anti-gang-violence. I want the kids to know right from wrong and the consequences. I want to stop the violence in the city I was born in and the city I love.”

“I’d say I’m a pure boxer. I like to keep my distance and use my jab and my straight punches, but if it comes down to it, I can fight on the inside,” Flores said. “I can do anything it takes to win. My favorite boxer of all time is Roy Jones Jr. Sometimes I’ll do a little showboating like he does, and sometimes I do that little jump-in hook.”

By Norm Frauenheim-

LAS VEGAS – Two-hundred-and-fifty million dollars mean all kinds of things. A quick check with Google will deliver a list of hedge finds, tax evasion, lawsuits, Donald Trump, luxury condos, good bets, lousy bets and maybe Floyd Mayweather Jr. posing next to an open suitcase full of cash.

It’s all there, except for Manny Pacquiao’s generosity. It’s mostly been a story about anecdotes. He builds homes for Filipinos. He buys a fleet of new boats for a coastal town’s fishermen. His promoter, Top Rank’s Bob Arum, has called him the Pacific nation’s one-man social welfare system.

For the first time, however, maybe a number can be attached next to an inexhaustible generosity from a guy who never seems to stop fighting or giving. Best estimate: $250 million.

“Every income I receive in boxing, almost half of it goes to the less fortunate,’’ Pacquiao said Wednesday before a formal news conference at The Wynn for his pay-per-view bout against WBO welterweight champion Jessie Vargas at Thomas & Mack Saturday night (6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET).

Pacquiao’s career income for purses and endorsements is at $500 million after his April victory over Timothy Bradley, according to Forbes. Half of that adds up to a lot homes, fishing boats and meals for Filipinos who need them. It also amounts to some – make that a lot – of political clout for the fighter who was elected to the Filipino Senate in May.

As a Senator, Pacquiao’s duties include membership on 15 committees, two of which he chairs, according to Arum. His life as a full-time Senator resumes on Tuesday, just a few days after at least one more fight as a full-time boxer. The question of whether he continues with full-time roles in both the political and boxing rings looms over his bout with Vargas.

“I’m sure he’s going to be known as a great Senator,’’ Vargas said during the news conference in a comment that said he intended to end the Filipino’s greatness in boxing.

Without boxing, it’s unlikely that Pacquiao could continue to give away the kind of money that is funding the current construction of 1,000 houses in Sarangani Province. All of the money for the land, homes and labor is coming out of Pacquiao’s pocket. That’s just the latest example of Pacquiao, a people’s champ in more than just one way.

“I don’t like politics,’’ he said. “I hate politics. After each fight, half of my income goes to the poor.

“But I don’t like to announce it.’’

He doesn’t like to brag, either. Not when he can give.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Nov. 2nd, 2016) — For years, Cage Titans FC and CES MMA have run neck-and-neck as two of the premier mixed martial arts promotions in the northeast.

Cage Titans has developed an incredibly deep talent pool of up-and-coming amateur fighters, many of whom have starred on past CES MMA events, while CES MMA has earned its reputation as a gateway to the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) with help from its relationship with AXS TV, which will extend into 2017, as announced by the network earlier this week.

The two promotions had always talked about running an event in association with one another, but it never made sense until now. CES MMA recently had another TV date added to its 2016 slate and Cage Titans had the venue, hence the concept behind “CES MMA 39,” which takes place Friday night at Memorial Hall in Plymouth, Mass., Cage Titans’ home base where it’s sold out its last 12 events.

Friday’s event features 11 bouts — eight professional, three amateur — with the preliminary card beginning at 7 p.m. ET and the AXS TV Fights televised main card beginning at 9.

“When this opportunity presented itself, it made perfect sense,” Cage Titans owner and matchmaker Mike Polvere said. “It was the right place, right time.”

It was a no-brainer as well for CES MMA, which had hoped to promote a second event in Massachusetts before the end of the year after making its Bay State debut in Beverly in April with a sold-out show at the North Shore Music Theatre.

“We were all in,” said CES MMA CEO Jimmy Burchfield Jr. “Mike does an incredible job. A lot of the CES fighters initially made a name for themselves at Cage Titans FC. This will be a night of unforgettable action and the start of things to come!”

Friday’s event features the best from both promotions. Cage Titans is also running its next event the following night, “Cage Titans 31,” also from Memorial Hall, which had been planned long before “CES MMA 39,” so Polvere took some of the top names from that event and moved them up one night for the opportunity to fight on the AXS TV platform.

Among them are Abington, Mass., standouts Manny Bermudez (7-0, 1 KO), who previously fought on AXS TV when he was featured on “CES MMA 32,” and brothers Peter Barrett (6-0, 5 KOs) and Max Barrett (3-0, 2 KOs), and Milford, Mass., flyweight Remo Cardarelli (6-4), in addition to Lawrence, Mass., vet Wilfredo Santiago (6-3, 5 KOs), who faces 11-time CES MMA vet Chuck O’Neil (17-8, 6 KOs) of Bourne, Mass., in the main event.

Bermudez, a featherweight, faces 25-fight vet Saul Almeida (18-7, 1 KO) of Framingham, Mass.; Peter Barrett puts his unbeaten record on the line in a featherweight bout against undefeated Clearwater, Fla., native Jeremy Davis (3-0, 1 KO); his younger brother, Max, faces Cage Titans bantamweight vet Dan Dubuque (3-1) of Waterbury, Conn., and Cardarelli faces Josh Ricci (2-0) of Whitesville, N.Y.

“It made sense for us to take our more established pros, like Manny, Peter, Max, and give them that nationwide exposure on national TV,” Polvere said. “CES has done a great job of showcasing the best talent on the east coast and it’s a great opportunity for Cage Titans to offer up some of our up-and-comers.

“They’re well-known, household names to our audience, and to the Massachusetts audience, but now here is their opportunity to get that exposure on a national level, a chance to spread their wings a little bit. CES has established itself as the staple for getting to the UFC for east coast fighters. With Manny, Peter, Wilfredo and others, we feel they have the talent to be there.”

CES MMA’s reputation as a “gateway” to the UFC began primarily when Boston’s John “Doomsday” Howard dominated the regional circuit under the promotional guidance of CES MMA and earned a second stint with the UFC. Since then, other regional fighters have carved their path to the UFC through CES MMA, including Tateki Matsuda, Rob Font, Joey Gomez, Dominique Steele, Kyle Bochniak, Charles Rosa and others.

The co-promotion between CES MMA and Cage Titans also shows the tremendous depth of talent in the northeast, which continues to grow as CES MMA prepares for another full slate of AXS TV broadcasts in 2017, starting in late January.

“We have 20 fights scheduled for Saturday and 11 with the CES card. The east coast is a hot bed for MMA,” Polvere said. “We have fighters from Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York and all the way up to Maine and New Hampshire on these cards, and, with the CES portion, from every further.

“At Cage Titans, we have a deep talent pool and with the blossoming of the sport of MMA, it’s only growing. The number of new people in this sport is growing. What’s interesting now is kids growing up are training MMA. In the early days, most MMA fighters were kids who wrestled in high school and picked up the sport when it became popular when they were 25. Now kids are starting to train as early as nine years old. It’s been a fun evolution the last couple of years.”

Tickets for “CES MMA 39” are priced at $45.00, $55.00, $75.00 and $125.00 (VIP) and can be purchased online at www.cesboxing.com or www.cagetix.com or by phone at 401-724-2253/2254. All fights and fighters are subject to change.

“CES MMA 39” also features Sandwich, Mass., welterweight Bobby Flynn (6-3, 1 KO), fresh off his win over Kevin Horowitz at “CES MMA 36,” battling unbeaten Crofton, Md., native Micah Terrill (6-0, 5 KOs) and Quincy, Mass., light heavyweight Mike Rodriguez (5-1, 3 KOs) facing New Hampshire’s Kevin Haley (5-3, 2 KOs), both on the main card, while Connor Barry (1-0) of Holbrook, Mass., faces lightweight Anthony Giachina (1-0) of Selden, N.Y., on the preliminary card.

“CES MMA 39” also features two amateur bouts; Charles Bonnar faces Zach Fritz-Kill and Joe Mikolinksi battles Shane Brady.

Visit www.cesmma.com, www.twitter.com/cesmma or www.facebook.com/cesmma for more information, follow CES MMA on Instagram at @CESMMA and use the hashtag #CES39 to join the conversation.

LOS ANGELES (November 2, 2016) – For this November 4th edition of LA FIGHT CLUB, International Boxing Association Featherweight Title holder and rising Golden Boy Promotions contender Manuel “Tino” Avila (21-0, 8 KOs) will take on former WBO International featherweight title holder Jose Ramirez (27-5-2, 16 KOs) in a 10-round main event. The event will also feature super bantamweight prospect Emilio Sanchez (13-0, 9 KOs) taking on Diuhl Olguin (10-5-2, 9 KOs) in an 8 – round super bantamweight fight. Rounding out the televised portion will be Pablo “The Shark” Rubio Jr. (7-0, 3 KOs) who will battle in a 6- round bantamweight fight against Francisco Dominguez (7-8, 1 KO) as part of Estrella TV’s Boxeo Estelar’s opening broadcast. Also on the card and part of the Ring TV live streamed portion, Tenochtitlan “T-Dog” Nava (3-0, 1 KO) will be in a 4-round super featherweight bout against Ricky Vasquez (6-2-1, 2 KOs).

Below is what the fighters had to say at today’s media work out:

MANUEL AVILA, Featherweight Contender:
“I’m excited to be the main event, and glad to be back in Los Angeles,” said featherweight contender Manuel Avila. “My opponent is strong, and likes to come forward in the ring. I’ve fought similar fighters in my career, and I’m not scared to face off against him. On paper, it looks like I’m up for a challenge, but I know what I am capable of.”

“This fight will be a step in the right direction. I see myself taking a shot at a title within the next couple of fights. I’ve been getting stronger with every bout, and I know that I’ll be ready for it when the time comes.”

EMILIO SANCHEZ, Super Bantamweight Prospect:
“Every fight is a step up from the last. Golden Boy has been a huge part of that, and being able to be here as a co-main event is wild,” said super bantamweight prospect Emilio Sanchez. “I may not know much on my opponent, but that doesn’t matter. We train hard to endure, to be resilient, and to be able to make it to the next step in the ladder. I’m focused and ready to put on a show for everyone.”

PABLO RUBIO, JR., Super Bantamweight Prospect:
“I’m excited to be a part of the Estrella telecast for the first time,” said super bantamweight prospect Pablo Rubio Jr. “The Belasco Theater is home for me — all of my professional fights in my career have all been here. Golden Boy has been good to me, and they have contributed to the major success I have had as a fighter who is beginning his career. I can’t wait to demonstrate to those watching live on TV and those at the theater what I’m capable of in the ring.”

TENOCHTITLAN NAVA, Super Featherweight Prospect:
“This is the fourth fight in my career. I remember when I first stepped into the ring professionally, and I thought ‘wow is this even real?!'” Said up- and- coming super featherweight warrior Tenochtitlán “T-Dog” Nava. “I get to wake up every morning and do what I love, and that’s a blessing. That translates into the hard work we see in the ring– something the fans will get to see this Friday.”

LA FIGHT CLUB: Avila vs. Ramirez, is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by “Tecate, BORN BOLD,” and Casa Mexico Tequila. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV Boxeo Estelar broadcast will air live on Friday, November 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT and will stream live simultaneously on estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios: youtube.com/FenomenoStudios. The Ring TV live stream will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV and become a fanon Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB and #BoxeoEstelar.

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Oxnard, California: Yesterday, WBO, WBA and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev (30-0-1, 26 KOs) held an open workout for members of the media in advance of his upcoming “Pound For Pound” showdown on November 19 against Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (30-0, 15 KOs) at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and distribute live by HBO Pay-Per-View. Also in attendance were Curtis “The Cerebral Assassin” Stevens (28-5, 21 KOs) who will take on James “The King” De La Rosa (23-4, 13 KOs) for the WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Title and Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk (11-0, 9 KOs) who will face Isaac “Golden Boy” Chilemba (24-4-2, 10 KOs) for the NABF Light Heavyweight Title on the Kovalev-Ward HBO Pay-Per-View telecast.
Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev
WBO, WBA, and IBF Light Heavyweight World Champion
Kovalev: “I’m excited and everything is going good. I’m waiting for this day, November 19, and I am ready to fight.”

SK: “I don’t have anything personal about him (Ward). I should to win this fight, I only have to prove (to) myself who I am. I am fighting for me first of all, and after this really for boxing fans. This is my boxing career since 11 years old and right now Andre Ward (is) in my way. And he wants to get my titles but I’m still alive.”

SK: “I don’t have any plans for each fight, just get into the ring and do my job. I must be ready for everything what he (Ward) will bring.”

SK: “I got some experience from my fight against Bernard Hopkins. He showed that never give up. That you should to fight all 12 rounds and hope for your win.”

Question: Do you expect Andre Ward will hold you and use his head?
SK: “Yes I think he will use it and I am ready for this too. It will be wrestling and not fight [laughs].”

SK: “I think he (Ward) will look much better in my fight November 19 because he long time didn’t fight, couple years he had a rest and Sullivan Barrera was first fight when he returned. And with Alexander Brand he was better than against Sullivan Barrera. I accept that he’s going to look much better November 19. In best shape.”

SK: “John (David Jackson) just gives me freedom to do what I want, what I would like to do. You know, just like adjust some things and advice between rounds about technique. Working a lot with mitts. I like work with him and feel comfortable.”

SK: “I don’t think that Andre Ward (will) let me use a lot of body shots because he has great legs and a lot of movements. You know he’s very smart. And I think first part of this fight is going to be a lot mentally, but I should prove that I’m Krusher and that I’m going to do my job. He’s going to do his job, me to do my job.”

SK: “I think my last fight against Chilemba, it was like a similar fight you know, because Chilemba’s a little bit style as Andre Ward. But Andre Ward is Andre Ward, a little bit different and stronger, smarter, undefeated and more motivated than Chilemba. I’m interested what he will bring November 19 to the ring.”

SK: “We agreed two fights before our fight. I was ready last year to fight, but Andre wasn’t ready to fight without two fights at light heavyweight. We sign agreement that two more fights and then let’s fight in 2016.”

SK: “I work out morning time. After this some massage therapy, some treatments, after this some rest, little bit nap, cook the food, take a rest and go again to work out. Today two work outs, this was just the first. My plan was a little broke today because usually my first workout is morning time, but right now already almost 3pm. My interview is a workout [laughs].

Curtis “The Cerebral Assassin” Stevens
WBA Continental Americas Middleweight Champion
Question: Do you want David Lemieux and the rematches?
Stevens: “We all know I want David Lemieux. The question is, is he willing to fight me? Who else? Tureano Johnson, he was winning the fight, but the fight wasn’t over until the final bell rung, and he got knocked out. Some people say it was a premature stoppage, but me, the ref say, you know… I want to be world champion. That was one of my goals, to become a world champion and become a unified world champion.”

Q: How do you feel about being part of this big card?
CS: “It feels great. Second big card of the year. The first one was Canelo–Khan and now Kovalev–Ward. Opened up the first one and now I’ll open up the second one. It’s a great feeling, great. I’m very honored. It’s a pleasure.”

Q: What are your thoughts on De La Rosa?
CS: “A fight is a fight. You can call it a stay busy fight, you can call it a real, well it’s a real fight in general, but you can call it what you want to call it. A fight is a fight at the end of the day.”

CS: “I’m a different type of breed. I come from Brownsville. I’m just a different type of guy. What people fail to realize is that some people wasn’t raised how I was raised. You know? I’m from an era where you sign up in the US Championships, the National Golden Gloves, you couldn’t pick who you wanted to fight. This isn’t a show fight; this is a tournament. First day you got your Andre Ward, you got Gennady Golovkin, you got your David Lemieux’s. I mean the first day! No finals, no nothing. I fought Ward three times, he gave me my first loss ever. Then the second time I fought him, it was a US Championship semi-finals, then the third one was the US Championship semi-finals again. You don’t know where you’re going to meet these guys at.”

CS: “I will always be the chin checkers, that’s what I do, I check in and I check out, I will always be that. I got rid of Showtime. Showtime’s a thing of the past, that’s when I was with my old team. I’m with JDJ now, I’m the Cerebral Assassin, I got to run this tight ship wisely, instead of recklessly. Wisely, get it?”

CS: “John (David Jackson) makes me more relaxed, you know? Let my hands go a little more. Tells me l’m powerful in both hands, so don’t just look to go in there and knock them out.”
Oleksandr “The Nail” Gvozdyk
NABF Light Heavyweight Champion
Gvozdyk: When I first started boxing it was for getting stronger. Then I liked it and it became a hobby. Now boxing is everything. It is my life. It is my job. It is my hobby.
Question: A lot of people don’t know you yet. What would you like them to know about yourself?

OG: I would like to become popular in the ring. I do my best and they supposed to watch it. I hope they’re going to like me.

OG: My nickname is “The Nail” and that is just a translation of my last name. I have had this nickname since I was ten years old so I am used to that. When I came here everyone started to call me that.

Q: Talk to us about your opponent.
OG: Chilemba is a very strong fighter. Very smart. He is skilled. He has good defense. It is not going to be easy. I am happy with my preparation so far and I am expecting a good fight.

Q: Talk about the transition you made from amateur to pro.
OG: Whether it is amateur or pro boxing, it is still boxing. You just have to get used to some different timing. You have to learn to distribute your power for ten or more rounds. You have to get more power in the pros but basically it is the same.

Q: Talk about your preparation for the fight and the dedication it takes in the gym every day to prepare to one day get to the level of Sergey Kovalev and Andre Ward.
OG: I think that if you want to be champion you have to train hard. You are supposed to do your best and train as hard as possible. If you want to be the best, you have to fight the best and you have to train with the best. That is what I try to do. Now Sergey and Ward have both proved that they are the best fighters and now they get to find out who is Pound For Pound #1. I watch them and I try to do the same steps to be like them.

Q: Who do you think wins Kovalev-Ward?
OG: I think Kovalev wins. I know it is like 50-50 fight and it is a very interesting fight for me. It is a fight between intelligence and power.

Kovalev vs. Ward “Pound For Pound”, a 12-round mega-fight for the WBO/IBF/WBA light heavyweight title at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, is presented by Main Events, Roc Nation Sports, Krusher Promotions and Andre Ward Promotions and is sponsored by the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Corona Extra, Zappos, JetLux and Monster Products. The championship event will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Tickets are available on axs.com and the T-Mobile Arena box office.

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