Dereck Chisora has replaced Josh Warrington on the bumper bill at The O2 on Saturday night, live on Sky Sports Box Office – and he’s hunting the winner of the British and Commonwealth Heavyweight title clash between Anthony Joshua MBE and Dereck Chisora.

‘Del Boy’ returned landed a 23rd pro win on Saturday night in Hamburg, registering a 15th stoppage win in his first fight with new promoters Sauerland. The Finchley man gets straight back into action in London this weekend and is looking to regain the titles he held in 2010 and replaces Warrington has been forced out of his fight with a virus.

Chisora is part of a massive night of action, topped by Anthony Joshua MBE taking on bitter rival Dillian Whyte for the British and Commonwealth Heavyweight titles.

Chris Eubank Jr and Spike O’Sullivan meet in a final eliminator for the WBA World Middleweight title, Kevin Mitchell meets Ismael Barroso for the WBA Interim Lightweight title with the winner facing newly crowned WBA supremo Anthony Crolla, Tony Bellew faces Mateusz Masternak for the vacant European Cruiserweight title, Joshua’s fellow Olympic gold medal hero Luke Campbell MBE defends his WBC International Lightweight title against Yvan Mendy and Paulie Malignaggi challenges Antonio Moscatiello for the EU Welterweight title.

Anthony Joshua vs. Dillian Whyte is SOLD-OUT – visit http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ to get your hands on tickets.

StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua MBE.

Trenton, NJ – In the main event from the Sun National Bank Center, Yenifel Vicente scored a scary one-punch knockout over Juan Dominguez that led to Dominguez being carried out of the ring in a stretcher.

The third round had just begun when Vicente floated a weak jab in Dominguez’s direction, followed by a vicious overhand right. In reaction to the jab, Dominguez pulled straight back, far enough to elude the jab, but not far enough to escape the overhand right that followed. The punch, which Dominguez never saw coming, instantly ended the fight, as it sent him flailing to the ground, where he would remain motionless until paramedics removed him from the ring in stretcher.

From the opening bell the fight saw good action, and both boxers found their share of success. Halfway through the first round Vicente seemingly wobbled “Baby Tito”, albeit briefly. Dominguez was able to recover and launch his own offensive attacks during the final third of the first frame.

In the second round, Dominguez was deducted one point by referee Earl Brown after he hit Vicente below the waist on two occasions.

But it was only twenty seconds into the third round that Brown stood over a sprawled out Dominguez, calling an obvious halt to the bout.

With the victory, Vicente earns arguably the biggest win of his career and improves his record to 28-3-2, 20 KO. Dominguez suffers his first professional loss and is now 19-1, 13 KO.

In an eight round middleweight bout former Virginia Golden Gloves champion, Immanuwel Aleem upped his perfect record to 15-0, 9 KO with a hard earned split decision victory over Colombian Carlos Galvan (11-4-1, 10 KO). Both technically sound fighters found their share of success throughout the bout, but ultimately it was Aleem who landed the more impressionable blows.

Judge John McKai and Lawrence Layton scored the bout for Aleem, 77-75 and 78-74, respectively. While John Stewart saw the fight in favor of Galvan, scoring it 77-75 for the Colombian.

In the first of the televised bouts on Fox Sports 1, Keith “Machine Gun” Tapia (17-0, 11 KO) slugged out a unanimous decision victory over Philadelphia’s Garret Wilson (16-10-1, 9KO). The first round saw immediate action with the Puerto Rican Tapia coming out of his corner like a man possessed, immediately rushing to greet Wilson and let his hands fly – setting a fast-paced tone that would define the fight over the first six rounds.

The second round saw even more fireworks than its predecessor, sparked by a Wilson right hand that caught Tapia on the top of his head, briefly wobbling him. Tapia responding by unleashing a barrage of punches on Wilson, which turned into a barbaric exchange that ultimately left Tapia with a cut over his left eye. Midway through round three, Wilson landed another flush right that seemed to momentarily shake Tapia. Again, the Puerto Rican immediately responded with a monster right of his own, which led to a vicious trading of blows while Wilson’s back was against the ropes.

The fourth and fifth rounds played host to more willing exchanges by the cruiserweights, highlighted by Wilson’s landing of two clean overhand rights in the fourth and a counter left uppercut from Tapia toward the end of round five. In the sixth, Tapia found success with lead left hooks and uppercuts. Earlier in the fight, Tapia was trying to set up right hands behind his jab, but in the sixth stanza his change of approach resulted in the “Machine Gun” landing some of his best power shots.

Toward the end of the ninth, Tapia again unloaded on Wilson, who somehow managed to stay on his feet as he absorbed huge right hands and two head-snapping uppercuts.

Somehow, the fight went the distance and when it was all said and done, Tapia earned the decision from the ringside judges.

Judge John Stewart scored the bout 97-93, while Robin Taylor and Lawrence Layton had it 99-91.

“I never looked for a knockout and I knew he was a tough son-of-a-gun,” Tapia said afterward. “I respect him one-thousand percent…this was my toughest fight.”

After a fourteen-month layoff, former light heavyweight champion, “Bad” Chad Dawson stepped back between the ropes and scored a unanimous decision victory over Shujaa El Amin. After a tentative first round that was highlighted by a Dawson low blow, action picked up in the second round when the former champ landed a beautifully thrown left uppercut right on the button. Dawson followed that up with a flurry of punches that sent El Amin retreating toward a neutral corner, where he would cover up for the duration of the round. The rest of the fight played out like the movie Groundhog Day – where round after round Dawson would back El Amin into a corner, before settling in and letting his hands fly. To his credit, El Amin absorbed everything Dawson had to offer, and never found himself in danger of losing via knockout. However, he also never put himself in a position to win a round.

At the conclusion of round ten, all three judges scored it a shutout: 100-90, Dawson.

“I showed I was prepared to go ten rounds, I said I could go ten rounds,” Dawson said. “I think I’m 2 or 3 fights away from a title fight.”

Dawson’s record improves to 33-4, 18 KO, while El Amin’s slips to 12-9, 6 KOs.

In a four round heavyweight scrap, Dan Pasciolla (6-1) earned a unanimous decision over Corey Morley (0-1-1). Working well behind an effective jab, Pasciolla controlled the tempo of the fight — keeping his smaller, heavier opponent at a safe distance throughout. At the end of round four, all three judges turned in scorecards of 40-36, Pasciolla.

Philadelphia super middleweight Christopher Brooker (5-1, 5 KO) scored a sixth round TKO over Oklahoma’s Zaccariah Kelly (5-13, 5 KO). Brooker used his height and reach advantage to keep Kelly at distance throughout most of the bout. In the firth round, Brooker began raining bombs on Kelly, sending him into survival mode. Referee Earl Brown debated stopping the fight late in the round, but just when he seemed ready to jump between fighters, the bell sounded. Kelly lasted just :32 into the sixth and final round before Brown stepped in to call a halt to the bout.

In his professional debut, Baltimore’s Jordan “Shortdog” White (1-0, 1 KO) needed just twenty seconds and three punches to KO Puerto Rico’s Jose Roman (0-4). A straight left hand sent Roman to the canvas where he would fail to beat referee Sparkle Lee’s ten count. White’s career begins 1-0, 1 KO, while Roman remains winless and drops to 0-5.

In a welterweight bout, Chicago’s Alex Martin stayed undefeated with a unanimous decision victory over Cameron Kreal of Las Vegas. Martin’s record goes to 11-0, 5 KO, while Kreal’s drops to 8-9-2, 1 KO. All three judges scored it a shutout for Martin, 60-54.

Venezuelan bomber Ismael Barroso (18-0-2, 17 KOs) is talking knockout in advance of his showdown with England’s Kevin Mitchell for the WBA interim lightweight title this Saturday, December 12, at the O2 Arena in Greenwich, London.

One of the strongest punchers in the world at 135 lbs., Barroso will face Mitchell as part of the Sky Sports Box Office card, headlined by bitter heavyweight rivals Anthony Joshua and Dillian Whyte’s battle for the MBE British and Commonwealth Championship.

“He is a very strong fighter, but he has not fought me,” said the confident Barroso. “I will be strong in every way.”

Barroso, from El Tigre, Venezuela, will be vying for his first interim world title with the winner scheduled to face regular champion, Anthony Crolla, within 90 days.

“I will walk him down and throw many combinations. I will hit him with hard shots, and I will knock him out,” continued the determined Barroso.

His promoter, Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions, says Barroso’s star is about to rise in boxing.

“Ismael has been the strongest puncher at the weight for years and he’s finally going to get his chance to become the world champion and feared slugger he was always destined to become,” said Cohen. “Kevin Mitchell is a good fighter but there’s not a lightweight in the world who can keep from getting hit by Barroso even once and that’s all it takes. We are very confident going into this one.”

Ismael Barroso fights under the Greg Cohen Promotions banner, in association with David Schuster’s Winner Take All Productions.
About Greg Cohen Promotions
One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

Founder and CEO Greg Cohen has been involved with professional boxing in various capacities since the late 1980s, honing his craft and establishing himself as a shrewd international boxing businessman.

Distinguished by his ability to spot and develop raw talent, Cohen first made promotional headlines for his expert guidance of, among many others, former WBA Junior Middleweight Champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout, who Cohen helped guide from unknown New Mexico prospect to elite pay-per-view level superstar.

In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney.

Cohen currently promotes multiple world champion and boxing superstar Zab Judah and former world champion Kendall Holt, as well as current world-rated contenders including top undefeated cruiserweight Lateef Kayode, long-time elite middleweight “Mean” Joe Greene, lightweight KO artist Ismael Barroso, top super featherweight Arash Usmanee, Canadian lightweight and TV action hero Tony Luis; WBA and five-time Irish National Amateur Champion, Dennis Hogan; and Australian lightweight prospect Josh King.

Greg Cohen Promotions has hosted world-class boxing events in the finest venues throughout the United States and the world and has also proudly provided talent and/or content for several television networks including CBS Sports Network, HBO, Showtime, ESPN, NBC Sports Network, CBS Sports Network, MSG and FOX Sports Net.

For more information, visit gcpboxing.com. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GCPBoxing. Twitter: @GCPBoxing.

NEW YORK, NY – December 8, 2015 – For the first time ever, a boxing match has been released in its entirety in 360 degree immersive virtual reality, as SHOWTIME captured the shocking first round TKO from Saturday night’s main event between WBA Middleweight World Champion Daniel Jacobs’ and previously undefeated challenger Peter Quillin. The all-Brooklyn main event has been made available in 360 video from ring-side, giving fans an unprecedented boxing experience. The virtual reality video engrosses viewers in the matchup of the top middleweights, facing off in the prime of their career, where Brooklyn’s Jacobs (31-1, 28 KOs) won the “Battle For Brooklyn.” The 360 footage is viewable on the SHOWTIME Sports’ YouTube channel*, the SHOWTIME Boxing Facebook page, on the Samsung Gear VR via the MILK VR app and Littlestar VR apps for Samsung Gear VR, iOS and Android.

The telecast is currently available On Demand, on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and on the SHOWTIME streaming service. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event happened live on SHOWTIME on Saturday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. One minute into the fight, Jacobs landed a straight right to Quillin’s temple and pounced with an onslaught of punches while his opponent was against the ropes. Quillin stumbled forward and referee Harvey Dock looked in Quillin’s eyes and halted the fight without the challenger ever touching the canvas.

The executive producer of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING is David Dinkins Jr. with Bob Dunphy directing. Barclays Center’s BROOKLYN BOXING™ programming platform is presented by AARP. For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports, follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @DanielJacobsTKO, @KidChocolate, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

Parsippany, NJ (December 8, 2015) – This Friday night’s boxing event at the Parsippany PAL in Parsippany, New Jersey has been postponed due to a logistical emergency.

Fans who have purchased tickets may refund them at the point of purchase.

The new date will be announced by GH3 Promotions shortly.

GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight’s Hector Frometa, Jerrell Harris & Keenan Smith, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez to the GH3 Promotions stable.

Patrick Nielsen’s coach Joey Gamache went behind enemy lines today in an attempt to unsettle Rudy Markussen ahead of his ‘Bad Blood’ battle with Nielsen on Saturday night at the Brondby Hallen in Copenhagen.

The former two-time World Champion surprised Markussen by showing up unannounced at his media workout at the Bokseinstituttet in Valby.

‘’I wanted to get inside his head,’’ said Gamache. ‘’I wanted him to know that we’re here and we’re serious about what we’re doing.

‘’Mentally Rudy is vulnerable and we want to exploit that any way we can. You can tell that he’s already feeling the pressure and that is going to build more and more as fight night approaches.

‘’He knew I was there and he didn’t want to give too much away but I’ve already seen enough to know what we need to do on Saturday night.’’

However, Markussen believes the American coach had a shock of his own when he got to witness the Hard Hitter’s power first hand.

‘’I could see the look in his eyes when I was hitting the heavy bag and he was scared,’’ said the former European Champion. ‘’He knows that when I land one of those punches on Saturday night, Patrick is in trouble!’’

Ondt Blod: Patrick Nielsen vs. Rudy Markussen will be shown live and exclusive on Pay-Per-View in Denmark. For more information on how to order please visit www.boksekampen.dk.

Juan Dominguez 121.5 – Yenifel Vicente 122
Keith Tapia 195 – Garrett Wilson 193
Immanuwel Aleem 159 – Carlos Galvan 158
Christopher Brooker 171 – Zachariah Kelley 170
Dan Pasciolla 244 – Corley Morley 289
Alex Martin 147 – Cameron Kreal 146
Chad Dawson 174 – Shujaa El Amin 177
Jordan White 119 – Jose Roman 120

LAS VEGAS (December 7, 2015) – WBC Latino and FECARBOX heavyweight champion, Bronco Billy Wright (49-4, 38 KOs), is willing and able to step up and challenge Deontay Wilder (35-0, 34 KOs) for his world title. Currently rated #20 by the WBC, Bronco Billy Wright is currently riding a 20-fight winning streak with 17 of those victories coming by way of knockout.

If Wilder, who is currently looking for an opponent for his scheduled January 16, 2016 date, were to take this fight, he would be facing a game opponent in Wright, who hasn’t lost a fight since 1998. With 31 first round knockouts to his credit, Billy feels he has what it takes to dethrone Wilder.

“No one can deny that I’ve earned the right to fight Deontay Wilder for his WBC title,” said Bronco Billy Wright. “I’ve been ranked in the top 20 with the WBC for the last three years. This is the American Dream for a fighter like myself who’s been waiting patiently to get an opportunity to fight for a world championship. I’ve paid my dues and I’m ready to take on this challenge.”

“There is no reason why this fight shouldn’t happen,” said Wright’s agent Ivaylo Gotzev. “From the day that Billy made his comeback till now, he’s made a believer out of me with everything that he’s accomplished. This is America where everyone should have an opportunity to fulfill their dreams, that’s what makes this country great. The man is active having just fought last month. Age should not be a factor. If George Foreman and Bernard Hopkins can fight at the championship level in their latter years, then the networks should not have a double standard when it comes to Bronco Billy. He wants to raise the bar and become the oldest heavyweight champ in boxing history. He currently holds two WBC belts which makes him more than qualified. There should be no discrimination in this matter. Billy is ready to fight Wilder now!”

TRENTON, NJ (December 7, 2015) – Former world champion champion “Bad” Chad Dawson (32-4, 18 KOs) return to the ring to take on Shujaa El Amin (12-8) in a 10-round light heavyweight bout as part of an exciting undercard on Tuesday, December 8 at Sun National Bank Center in Trenton, New Jersey.

The event is headlined by a featherweight showdown between Juan Dominguez (19-0, 13 KOs) and Yenifel “Lightning” Vicente (27-3-2, 19 KOs) on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) TOE-TO-TOE TUESDAYS on FS1 and BOXEO DE CAMPEONES on FOX Deportes beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Additional televised action features unbeaten cruiserweight Keith “Machine Gun” Tapia (16-0, 11 KOs) battling Garrett Wilson (16-9-1, 9 KOs) and undefeated rising middleweight prospect Immanuwel Aleem (14-0, 9 KOs) facing Carlos Galvan (11-3-1, 10 KOs) in an eight round bout.

Additional undercard fights feature undefeated welterweight prospect Alex Martin (10-0, 5 KOs) as he faces Cameron Kreal (8-8-2, 1 KO) in an eight-round bout.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by King’s Promotions, are priced at $70, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased HERE, at the Sun National Bank Center box office or by calling 800-298-4200.

Rounding out the night of fights is the pro debut of Baltimore’s Jordan White in a four-round super bantamweight bout against Puerto Rico’s Jose Roman (0-3), 30-year-old Daniel Pasciolla (5-1) out of Brick, New Jersey against Philadelphia’s Corey Morely (0-0-1) in a four-round heavyweight affair and Philadelphia’s Christopher Brooker (4-1, 4 KOs) in a six-round super middleweight contest against Zachariah Kelly (5-12, 5 KO’s) of Lawton, Oklahoma.

A former world champion at light heavyweight, Dawson returns to the ring looking for the 33rd victory of his successful career. The 33-year-old owns victories over former world champions Bernard Hopkins, Antonio Tarver and Tomasz Ademek. Fighting out of New Haven, Connecticut, he will take on the 28-year-old El Amin out of Flint, Michigan.

An accomplished amateur out of Chicago, Martin was a 2012 U.S. Olympic alternate and 2012 National Golden Gloves champion. The 26-year-old turned pro in 2013 and is undefeated in his first 10 pro fights. In 2015 he’s taking home victories over Jeremiah Wiggins, Jonathan Garcia and Kevin Womack Jr. He will be opposed by the 21-year-old Kreal out of Las Vegas, NV.

Brooklyn, N.Y. (Monday, Dec. 7, 2015) – 2015 was an outstanding year for Uprising Promotions light heavyweight Samuel “Main Event” Clarkson (17-3, 11 KOs), one that saw him win five bouts to extend a seven-fight winning streak. Among those victories included a decision over former world title challenger Cedric Agnew and knockouts of highly touted prospects Jerry Odom and Lavarn Harvell on ShoBox: The New Generation. Such success has led to the Texas native finally receiving his due respect from boxing pundits, and he now looks to further brighten his star with an even greater 2016.

“I am so thankful that we linked up with Uprising Promotions. That has been one of the best and smartest decisions we have made with my career,” Clarkson said of working with Ronson Frank and Uprising Promotions. “I’m just so thankful for everybody who is in my corner right now. We have grown spiritually as a team, from what we talk about to what we have been able to accomplish. I’m so thankful for all of it. As we look forward to 2016, I will be making my statement to the light heavyweight division that I am here to stay. I’m focused and ready for whatever comes our way in 2016.”

Still just 25-years-old, Clarkson is a fighter who has never been afraid to step up to any challenge, and those who have been around the 2009 PAL national champion have long known that he is destined for something special.

“A long time ago, one of my older friends – you know, I like to hang out with people older than me – told me that out of every 10 people, there is one person who is supposed to be the one, and you’re that one,” Clarkson reflected. “He told me ‘Everything you go through, everything you do, every mile you run, is going to influence somebody. With everything you do, know you are the one people are watching.’ I took that to heart. Being that I am in the position that I am in right now, whether or not someone wants to give me that label, I know that I am the one. And I am the one to put on for those people who suffer losses. Regardless of their circumstances, I’m here to show them that they can do it. It means a lot to me to be able to carry that name.”

Without a doubt, the future is bright for Clarkson. He repeatedly stepped up to the plate in 2015, and he knocked all of his opportunities out of the park. He has been continuously improving as both a fighter and a man, and any setbacks from yesterday now only serve as motivation for tomorrow.

“I always knew that it was going to come, but it can still be hard to believe when you’re living in the moment,” he said of his aspiring career. “It feels differently every day now when I work out. The other morning, I was up until 5 AM, just shadow boxing because I couldn’t sleep. I was telling my dad ‘I’m so excited for what is coming. I may not know exactly what that is, but I just know that I’m so ready for it.’ I can feel it. When I’m talking about it right now, I get chills.

“I’m just looking so forward to 2016. Uprising Promotions and Team Clarkson, we’re going to do some phenomenal things. Believe it when I say it, I can feel it in my spirit. Uprising Promotions, my coaches, my team – everybody I’m affiliated with – feels the same way, and that’s dangerous. It’s a beautiful thing, but it’s dangerous. This is the quiet before the storm, and the storm will truly start in 2016. To anyone in my weight class, be ready. There is so much more to me than what anyone has seen, and I will be ready for anything that is coming my way in 2016. I promise you that.”

Clarkson is expected to return to the ring in early 2016, and an official announcement will be made as soon as that date is confirmed.

Next up for Uprising Promotions is a date this Saturday for Belgian super welterweight Sheldon Moore (15-3-1, 10 KOs), who will meet Islam Teffahi (17-5-2, 5 KOs) for the WBC International Silver and WBC Francophone titles at the Centre sportif des Ascenseurs in Le Roeulx, Belgium.

For more information on Uprising Promotions and to keep up with all of our latest news, make sure to check out www.UprisingPromotions.com and follow us on social media: @UprisingNYC

SAN ANTONIO, TX (December 7, 2015) – Unbeaten super-featherweight rising star, Mario Barrios (13-0, 7 KOs), has an opponent named for his upcoming bout taking place this Saturday, December 5th at the AT&T Center in his hometown of San Antonio, Texas. Barrios will face Manuel Vides (18-4, 11 KOs) in a scheduled 8-round bout that will be part of the televised portion of PBC on NBCSN.

This will mark the seventh fight of 2015 for Barrios who made his televised debut on November 10th, a bout that was shown on PBC on FOX. In that fight Barrios defeated his toughest opponent to date in Enrique Tinoco (15-2-2, 11 KOs), winning by unanimous decision.

Barrios recently wrapped up training camp in Houston, TX, where he was working out with fellow Texan and undefeated featherweight contender Miguel Flores (18-0 9 KOs). Barrios wants to continue bringing excitement to the 130 pound division with another spectacular performance.

“I’m excited to be fighting back on television,” said Mario Barrios who hails from San Antonio. “I had a great training camp out in Houston where I got some great sparring with Miguel Flores and a few other good fighters. I feel I’m growing as a fighter and I can’t wait to mix it up this Saturday. Many of my family and friends will be in attendance so you better believe I’m coming to win and win impressively.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions, are priced at $220, $112, $85, $58 and $31, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.attcenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets can also be purchased by emailing m@leijabattahpromo.com or calling (210) 979-3302.

Patrick Nielsen (27-1, 13 KOs) opened the doors to his gym today for a media workout ahead of his blockbuster showdown with domestic rival Rudy Markussen (39-3, 26 KOs) on Saturday night at the Brondby Hallen in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The Danish super middleweight looked in top form, as he was put through his paces by former two-time World Champion turned coach Joey Gamache.

‘’I can’t wait for Saturday night,’’ declared the 24 year-old. ‘’I’ve been dreaming about this moment for a long time, and now, I’m fired up and ready to go!

‘’Rudy is not going to know what’s hit him. I’m faster, stronger and more determined than I’ve ever been. I know I will beat him convincingly. He is going to wish he never stepped into the ring with me.’’

Coach Joey Gamache shares his fighter’s confidence, believing Nielsen has had the perfect preparation for his sold-out grudge match.

‘’Patrick is in great shape – physically and mentally,’’ says Gamache. ‘’He only had two weeks off after his last fight so he came into camp in good condition and we had the perfect platform to build on. Right now, he’s relaxed, he’s excited and he’s ready to get the job done on Saturday night.’’

Ondt Blod: Patrick Nielsen vs. Rudy Markussen will be shown live and exclusive on Pay-Per-View in Denmark. For more information on how to order please visit www.boksekampen.dk.

PRAGUE, Czech Republic (December 7, 2015) — Russian fighters dominated the recent 2015 World MMA Championships (WMMAA), winning gold medals in six of seven divisions to easily capture the team title, in Prague, Czech Republic.

On the strength of Zaur Gadzhibabaev’s victory in the heavyweight competition, Azerbaijan won a silver medal in terms of quality medals won in team competition. Gadzhibabaev became the first two-time WMMAA champion. In quantity of medals earned, Kazakhstan won five silver and one bronze medal, second only to Russia with seven, including six golds and one bronze.

In other team scoring, Latvia and Tajikistan both won silver medals; China, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan and Georgia took home two bronze medals apiece; Greece, Colombia, Czech Republic and Ukraine all earned one bronze medal.

Here’s a breakdown of results from each weight class:

BANTAMWEIGHT DIVISION: -61.2 kg (135 lbs.)
1. Bakhachali Bakhachaliev (Russia)
2. Sergey Morozov (Kazakhstan)
3. Andrey Roa Ruiz Dumar (Colombia)
3. Yuan Liu Ping (China)

FEATHERWEIGHT DIVISION: -65.8 kg (145 lbs.)
1. Magomed Yunusilau (Russia)
2. Zhumageldi Zhalgassuly (Kazakhstan)
3. Archil Taziashvili (Georgia)
3. Elnur Veliev (Ukraine)

LIGHTWEIGHT DIVISION: -70.3 kg (154 lbs.)
1. Gadzhi Rabadanov (Russia)
2. Loik Radzhabov (Tajikistan)
3. Rashid Dagaev (Kazakhstan)
3. Changxin Fu (China)

WELTERWEIGHT DIVISION: -77.1 kg (170 lbs.)
1. Gadzhimurad Khiramagomedov (Russia)
2. Shavkat Rakhmonov (Kazakhstan)
3. Denis Maher (Belarus)
3. Beknazar Kainazar uulu (Kyrgyzstan)

MIDDLEWEIGHT DIVISION: -84 kg (185 lbs.)
1. Gamzat Khiramagomedov (Russia)
2. Dauren Ermekov (Kazakhstan)
3. Daniyar Abdibaev (Kyrgyzstan)
3. Giorgi Lobjanidze (Georgia)

LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION: -93 kg (205 lbs.)
1. Magomed Ankalaev (Russia)
2. Khasan Mezhiev (Latvia)
3. Michal Kotalik (Czech Republic)
3. Yulian Borisov (Belarus)

HEAVYWEIGHT DIVISION: +93 kg (+205 lbs.)
1. Zaur Gadzhibabaev (Azerbaijan)
2. Mokhmad Sulimanov (Kazakhstan)
3. Rizvan Kuniev (Russia)
3. Angelos Giatras (Greece)

Go here to watch video of the 2015 WMMAA Championships:
https://www.youtube.com/user/TheWMMAA/videos

CHAMPIONS’ QUOTES OF NOTE

2015 WMMAA Bantamweight Champion Bakhachali Bakhachali:
“It was a wonderful experience. You know it was a long road. I’m so glad it’s over and I was successful in reaching all the goals I had set. The final fight was very hard, my opponent was a serious test for me. He’s physically strong and determined. But thanks God I got the victory.

“The next step is of course the Russian MMA SuperCup. I hope God will help me win it.
I’d like to say thank you to my coaches: Rasul Magomed-Aliev, Abdulla Gaidarbekov. Thanks to Shamil Alibatyrov who was cornering me throughout the whole championship and helped me a lot.”

2015 WMMAA Featherweight Champion Magomed Yunusilau:
“Extreme happiness. First of all, I was not sure I would be able to participate because of injuries, but my coaches, friends and family helped me gather physically and mentally. I flew to Prague and got the best possible result.

“I had four fights. The first one (1/8) went the distance. My opponent, from Colombia, was really determined, he would not give up. It was a hard-fought battle. In my other fights I finished all three opponents.

“First, I need to heal my injuries; it’s revalidation time. I’ll take a break for the first post-World Championship week and then I’ll focus on my health. I have issues with my back and one knee. And then, God bless, I’ll get back in business within 2-3 months. I intend to transfer to professional MMA competition. We have great coaches and the team that are highly qualified and able to facilitate in my transition. I’m sure I’ll be OK.”

2015 WMMAA Lightweight Champion Gadzhi Rabadanov:
“I’m extremely happy. It’s such a nice feeling to make your friends and family happy. I’m really grateful for all support I got from them.

“I had four fights in total and I finished all of my opponents. I can’t say which one was harder, everyone in front of me was quite good in his own right.

“If I look back, I’ve had five full training camps this year. Now, it’s time for a break from competition. I need to heal my wounds, rest and then return as a different fighter. There is enough room for improvement. I know I had one more fight planned at the Russian MMA SuperCup in December but I’ll have to cancel it because of my knee injury. Moreover it’s rather hard to make weight twice within a 10-day frame. It would be to the detriment of my health under these circumstances. Sorry, everyone who was hoping to watch me fight in Chelyabinsk (Russia – wmmaa.org) come December 5.”

2015 WMMAA Welterweight Champion Gadzhimurad Khiramagomedov:
“I can’t describe my feelings right now. It has been a long road. Two years ago, me and my brother, (Gamzat Khiramagomedov – wmmaa.org) set our sights on the World Championship. And here we are – both champions. I’m so happy.

“I really need to repair my body before planning anything else. My hand and foot are broken. One ligament is torn on my left leg. I need time to heal and then we’ll see.”

2015 WMMAA Middleweight Champion Gamzat Khiramagomedov:
“This experience is the best possible. After all work that I had done it’s time to catch a breath for a little while. Still, I’m not going to relax on my laurels. I have a fight scheduled at the SuperCup against Gamazan Gamzatov. After that fight I’ll be able to rest normally.

“At the World Championship I had four bouts. Assessing my opponents, I can say they were all good fighters. The hardest battle I had was against a warrior from Georgia. He would not give up; extremely powerful and good wrestler. I injured my left arm that’s why I couldn’t show my best in the finals. However, I’m so happy I made my people smile, especially my brother, Gadzhimurad, who puts a lot of effort into helping me. He’s always happier than me when I win. He’s my biggest fan.”

2015 WMMA Light Heavyweight Champion Magomed Ankalaev:
“My feelings are the best possible. Gold in this amateur MMA World Championship had been my target for a long time.

“I had five fights and the final one was the most difficult for me. I felt huge responsibility because it was up to me whether or not the Russian flag would be flying that high. Thank God, I was able to achieve that.

“I plan to take part in the Russian MMA SuperCup. After that, I’ll take a rest that, I believe, I’ll have fully deserved.”

2015 WMMA Heavyweight Champion Zaur Gadzhibabaev:
“A lot was at stake in the finals since my opponent, Mokhmad Sulimanov, wanted to avenge his loss from last year’s WMMAA World Championship. I’m glad I prevailed again.

“I’m honored to be the first two-time WMMAA champion. The competitors in my division were outstanding this year. I trained very hard to give my best and I’m very happy with my performances during the tournament.”

Information

www.WMMAA.org
www.facebook.com/World.MMA.Association
www.youtube.com/user/TheWMMAA

THE FIGHT GAME WITH JIM LAMPLEY returns with a new edition WEDNESDAY, DEC. 9 (11:00-11:30 p.m. ET/PT), exclusively on HBO. Hosted by the four-time Sports Emmy® winner, who has hosted HBO Boxing since joining the network in 1988, the show is a provocative, engaging and informative experience that delves into intriguing storylines, newsmakers and issues that are top-of-mind in boxing.

Other HBO playdates: Dec. 9 (4:10 a.m.), 12 (8:10 a.m.), 15 (7:30 p.m., 3:00 a.m.), 16 (3:15 p.m.), 18 (noon), 19 (12:30 a.m.), 20 (11:45 a.m.) and 21 (6:30 p.m., 2:25 a.m.)

HBO2 playdates: Dec. 10 (9:20 a.m., 8:00 p.m.), 11 (5:15 p.m., 1:15 a.m.), 16 (9:00 p.m.), 17 (11:15 a.m., 11:00 p.m.) and 19 (8:15 a.m.)

The show will also be available on HBO NOW, HBO GO and HBO On Demand.

This edition of THE FIGHT GAME examines the recent Cotto-Canelo and Klitschko-Fury fights, and marks the 15th anniversary of the pivotal Felix Trinidad-Fernando Vargas battle. In addition, Michelle Beadle sits down with Hall-of-Fame boxer-turned-promoter Oscar de la Hoya, and Max Kellerman and Bernard Hopkins join Lampley on the set to discuss the latest boxing headlines. Lampley also presents a special Gatti list inspired by the heated Mexico-Puerto Rico rivalry, as well as the FIGHT GAME pound-for-pound compilation.

Immediately following the show’s debut on Dec. 9, fight fans can log on to hbo.com for an exclusive overtime segment hosted by Lampley.

Washington, DC (December 7, 2015) – This past Saturday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Daniel Jacobs retained his WBA Middleweight title with a stunning first round stoppage over Peter Quillin.

One of the most interested spectators was undefeated and world ranked Middleweight Antoine “Action” Douglas.

Douglas (19-0-1, 13 KO’s) of Washington, DC, was an honored guest of Showtime Championship Boxing host Brian Custer along with WBC Heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder for an exclusive interview, just before the main event began.

“I will say within a year, I will be fighting on this level, no more, no less,” Said Douglas, who is currently ranked number-four by the WBO, number-nine by the WBA and number-eleven by the IBF.

Douglas, who is coming off a fourth round stoppage of Les Sherrington on November 6th in Las Vegas, that took place on Showtime’s acclaimed, ShoBox: The New Generation.

“I had a great stoppage, but the announcers said I got hit with four punches. I want to turn that into zero”

Douglas is promoted by GH3 Promotions and his promoter Vito Mielnicki said, “I am very proud of Antoine and I want to thank Showtime. To have him on camera with Deontay Wilder shows that the network is fully behind him. The network showed early on that they have a great interest in Antoine and that spot on Saturday showed that. There were a lot of great fighters in the crowd and for Antoine to be chosen for that interview gave him terrific exposure.”

GH3 Promotions features undefeated Middleweight Antoine Douglas, Super Middleweight’s Jerry Odom & Derrick Webster, undefeated Super Bantamweight Adam Lopez as well as Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight Champion John Thompson, Jr., undefeated Welterweight’s Hector Frometa, Jerrell Harris & Keenan Smith, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster & Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez to the GH3 Promotions stable.

WASHINGTON COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA – December 7, 2015 – World Fighting Championships has signed a three-fight agreement with Pennsylvania’s The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, and will make its East Coast debut on April 9th in the first of three shows at the Pittsburgh-area venue in 2016.

The standout boxing & MMA crossover promotional company has turned heads in both sports with consistently delivering quality, sold out events to boxing fans and casino customers in Nevada, Oregon, California and Louisiana.

WFC’s President, Matt McGovern, who is known for his no-nonsense, organized and tech-savvy approach to promoting boxing, is looking to establish a presence in the Pittsburgh area to rival that which he’s established in Louisiana, where he’s promoted 17 events at the Belle of Baton Rouge. “I will be looking to sign fighters in the Pittsburgh area,” said McGovern. “We want to make that our home, just as we’ve done with Baton Rouge, and we’re looking forward to getting to know the local boxing community there.”

The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, which hosted its first boxing event in 2014, boasts high-end dining, state of the art gaming, and some of Pennsylvania’s most prestigious horse races. “The Meadows has been really wonderful to work with so far,” said McGovern. “We had multiple offers from gaming properties in the area, but the one thing that stood out was the GM and Marketing Director’s knowledge of boxing in general, and specifically boxing in that area. They are going to be a phenomenal partner for World Fighting Championships.”

It has been a pivotal year for the growth of WFC, which is looking at possibly doubling the number of events it promotes in 2016. With 20 events already on the books for next year, McGovern foresees a shift in the ratio of boxing to MMA events that it hosts. “2015 has seen a lot of changes in the boxing industry. I think these changes will actually work in our favor, and I see us promoting more boxing events in the coming year than we did in 2015 and in prior years.”

Tickets for the promotion’s first East Coast are priced at $100, 50, and 25, and go on sale Monday, December 7th, at wfcfights.com.

Mateusz Masternak aims to prove he is ready to rule the World by beating Tony Bellew and reclaiming the European Cruiserweight title on Saturday (December 12) at The O2 in London, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

The Polish puncher is currently enjoying a new lease of life since teaming up with renowned German coach Ulli Wegner, as evident from his WBA Intercontinental title winning performance against Carlos Nascimento in September, and now, the 28 year old believes the time is right for him to make his mark at elite-level starting with a statement win against Bellew.

“Of course this is an important fight for me,” said Masternak. “This is a chance for me to test myself against one of the best fighters in the division and prove to everybody that I’m ready to fight for the World title.

“Bellew is a World-class opponent and I know it will be a tough test. He can punch, he can box and he always fights with a lot of heart, but his style suits me well, and my team and I have chosen the perfect game plan to beat him. I will be like his shadow – staying one-step and one-punch ahead of him at all times. If he thinks this will be an easy fight, he is mistaken.

“The European title is very important and prestigious belt, and now that I’m older and have more experience, I appreciate its value much more. This is a fight I have to win. I will give it my all and not stop until my hand is raised. I believe this will be the fight of the night, and once it’s over, everyone will know the name Mateusz Masternak.”

Ahead of their Cruiserweight clash, Masternak has warned Bellew not to attempt any trash talking, advising the 33 year-old to ‘save his strength’ for the ring.

“I’ve seen Bellew try to intimidate his opponents before but I’m sure he’s clever enough not to attempt this with me,” says ‘The Master’. “This sort of empty aggression and trash talking has no effect on me. Instead of trying to fight me at the press conference or the weigh-in, Bellew should save his strength, because he will need it in the ring!”

Masternak’s clash with Bellew is part of a huge night of action at The O2, topped by Anthony Joshua MBE taking on bitter rival Dillian Whyte for the British and Commonwealth Heavyweight titles.

Chris Eubank Jr and Spike O’Sullivan meet in a final eliminator for the WBA World Middleweight title, Kevin Mitchell meets Ismael Barroso for the WBA Interim Lightweight title with the winner facing newly crowned WBA supremo Anthony Crolla, Josh Warrington defend his WBC International Featherweight title against Jorge Sanchez, Joshua’s fellow Olympic gold medal hero Luke Campbell MBE defends his WBC International Lightweight title against Yvan Mendy and Paulie Malignaggi challenges Gianluca Branco for the European Welterweight title.

Anthony Joshua vs. Dillian Whyte is SOLD-OUT – visit http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ to get your hands on tickets.

StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua MBE.

Michael Buffer is heading to London to introduce a huge night of action at The O2 on Saturday night, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

The Hall of Fame MC returns to the Greenwich venue to call the fighters to the ring for the huge Heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua MBE and Dillian Whyte, and the WBA World Middleweight title eliminator between Chris Eubank Jr. and Spike O’Sullivan.

Buffer will also introduce the main event fighters at Friday’s weigh-in at The Indigo O2 before a stacked bill thrills the sold-out arena – and the American cannot wait to take his ringside seat for the night.

“Once again, I am looking forward to visiting London and another great evening of world-class boxing at The O2,” said Buffer. “I was looking at the list of fights and it may be one of the most solid line-ups from top to bottom I’ve ever seen. There’s the two British Olympic gold medallists Anthony Joshua MBE and Luke Campbell MBE along with standouts, Chris Eubanks Jr., Tony Bellew, Kevin Mitchell and Paulie Malignaggi. This is a fight fan’s dream night of boxing.

“The headliner of course is Heavyweight Anthony Joshua as he takes on the undefeated Dillian ‘The Villain’ Whyte in a twelve rounder for the vacant British title along with AJ’s Commonwealth belt. This is going to be Joshua’s toughest opponent to date. It’s a matchup of power punching big men and each will tip the scales at around 240 plus pounds.

“Everyone tells me Whyte has no fear and he’s been on a knockout binge himself with eleven straight wins inside the distance. Of course, we all know about Joshua’s pro record which is a rampage of 14 wins, all by KO, in his 14 pro fights. I don’t think this fight will disappoint the fans as most believe it won’t go the final bell. We just need a referee that will count to count to ten.

“With Tyson Fury now holding the World Heavyweight title, this fight figures to give the winner an inside track to what must be considered an eventual monster all British contest for the most prominent championship in all of sports. The thought of that boggles the mind.

“A personal highlight, for me, will be seeing my cast mate from the movie Creed, Tony Bellew. The fans are going to love him in that movie as he is prominently featured and turns in a great performance.

“This will my first chance to introduce Chris Eubank Jr. and as I’ve known his dad for so long it’s going to be a real treat as he faces Spike O’Sullivan in battle of top tier Middleweights.”

Joshua vs. Whyte and Eubank Jr. vs. O’Sullivan head an action packed bill in London.

Kevin Mitchell meets Ismael Barroso for the WBA Interim Lightweight title with the winner facing newly crowned WBA supremo Anthony Crolla, Liverpool Cruiserweight favourite Tony Bellew faces Mateusz Masternak, Josh Warrington defend his WBC International Featherweight title against Jorge Sanchez, Joshua’s fellow Olympic gold medal hero Luke Campbell MBE defends his WBC International Lightweight title against Yvan Mendy and Paulie Malignaggi challenges Gianluca Branco for the European Welterweight title..

Anthony Joshua vs. Dillian Whyte is SOLD-OUT – visit http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ to get your hands on tickets.

StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua MBE.

Mateusz Masternak (36-3, 26 KOs) aims to prove he is ready to rule the World by beating Tony Bellew (25-2-1, 16 KOs) and reclaiming the European Cruiserweight title on December 12 at The O2 in London, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

The Polish puncher is currently enjoying a new lease of life since teaming up with renowned German coach Ulli Wegner, as evident from his WBA Intercontinental title winning performance against Carlos Nascimento in September, and now, the 28 year-old believes the time is right for him to make his mark at elite-level starting with a statement win against Bellew.

‘’Of course this is an important fight for me,’’ said Masternak. ‘’This is a chance for me to test myself against one of the best fighters in the division and prove that I’m ready to fight for the World title!

‘’Bellew is a World-class opponent. He can punch, he can box and he always fights with a lot of heart, but his style suits me well, and my team and I have chosen the perfect game plan to beat him. I will be like his shadow – staying one-step and one-punch ahead of him at all times. If he thinks this will be an easy fight, he is mistaken.

‘’The European title is very important and prestigious belt, and now that I’m older and have more experience, I appreciate its value much more. I know this is a fight I have to win, and I will give it my all and not stop until my hand is raised. I believe this will be the fight of the night, and once it’s over, everyone will know the name Mateusz Masternak!’’

Masternak has warned Bellew not to attempt any intimidation or trash talking ahead of their championship clash, advising the 33 year-old to ‘save his strength’ for the ring.

‘’I’ve seen Bellew try to intimidate his opponents before but I’m sure he’s clever enough not to attempt this with me,’’ says ‘Master’. ‘’This sort of empty aggression and trash talking will have no effect on me. Instead of trying to fight me at the press conference or the weigh-in, Bellew should save his strength, because he will need it in the ring!’’

Masternak vs. Bellew for the vacant European Cruiserweight title is part of a huge night of action at The O2, topped by Anthony Joshua MBE taking on bitter rival Dillian Whyte for the British and Commonwealth Heavyweight titles.

Joshua v Whyte is live on Sky Sports Box Office on Saturday 12 December. Buy now at skysports.com/JoshuaWhyte

Indian superstar Vijender Singh steps up in experience when he takes on Samet Hyuseinov on December 19 at the Manchester Arena.

Unbeaten Singh has steamed through his first two professional opponents, beating Sonny Whiting in his debut in October and followed that up with a one round demolition of Dean Gillen in Dublin last month.

The 30-year-old hot-shot now takes on Bulgaria’s experienced Hyuseinov for his third pro fight as he continues on his quest to become India’s first ever professional world champion and end the year undefeated.

Whereas Whiting and Gillen had a combined record of five fights, Hyuseinov has 14 fights under his belt, winning seven fights and losing seven, with a total of 68 rounds and extending a number of prospects the distance.

“This is another important fight for me that I must win so the pressure is on,” Said Singh.

“I’m unbeaten and intend to stay that way going into next year where I am looking at my first title fight so I’m not letting Hyuseinov mess up my plans to get my first championship belt,”

“While I got rid of Whiting and Gillen early, I’ll have to see what Hyuseinov brings to the ring on the night. If I feel that I can take him out early I will go in for the early knockout and get the job done nice and quick,”

“He’s very experienced though and with 14 fights and 68 rounds he’s got the advantage over me in that department. It’s a step up for me though and if I can deal with him before the end of the four rounds then I know that I’m improving.”

However, bolshy Hyuseinov has threatened to stop the Indian Express in his tracks and inflict the first loss on his record.

“Singh has never, never met anyone like me and he will realise what it is like with a real professional on the 19th December,”

“How can he look to fight for titles next year when he’s only had two fights and four rounds? He thinks that I’m some fool he’s going to just knock over easily,”

“I will take great delight in handing Singh his first loss and sending him back home to India beaten and broken. In fact I will tell you what I will do to him, I will smash him to the body to loosen him up and then a right hand to knock him out, just watch me.”

Frank Warren’s end of year title extravaganza ‘X-Mas Cracker’ is headlined by two massive world title showdowns with WBO World Middleweight Champion Andy Lee defending his title against Billy Joe Saunders and WBO World Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Smith making his first title defence against Jimmy Kelly. A staggering SIX further titles are on the line with Mitchell Smith defending his WBO Intercontinental Super-Featherweight title against George Jupp; Paul Butler challenges for the Vacant WBO European Super-Flyweight Championship against Silvio Olteanu; Tommy Langford defends his WBO Intercontinental Middleweight Championship; Commonwealth Super-Welterweight Champion Liam Williams and Kris Carslaw clash with the Vacant British title also on the line; Jack Catterall defends his WBO Intercontinental Super-Lightweight Championship, and Tom Stalker and Craig Evans clash again for the Vacant WBO European Lightweight Championship. The undercard features Merseyside favourite Joe Selkirk in a six-round contest, Indian superstar Vijender Singh, Anthony Yarde and top Manchester prospects Jack Flattley and Dale Coyne, plus Razza Hamza.

Tickets are priced at £40, £50, £75, £100, £200 and £300 are available from:

www.frankwarren.com

TicketMaster

0844 844 0444

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Eventim

0844 249 1000

www.eventim.co.uk

Manchester Arena

0161 950 5000

0161 950 5229 (disabled access bookings)

www.manchester-arena.co.uk

*Tickets are subject to a booking fee.

The Channel Of Champion will televise live and exclusive on Sky 437/HD 490, Virgin 546 and Talk Talk 415. Subscribe at www.boxnation.com Or watch online at Livesport.tv and via iPhone, iPad or Android.

“Mechanism-based approaches are generally dangerous. The problem is that the goal of such studies is mimicry rather than true understanding, and these studies can easily degenerate into the writing of programs that do no more than mimic in unenlightening ways aspects of human performance.” – David Marr, Vision

Tuesday morning the announcement came Peter Nelson will be the new leader of HBO Sports, an outfit that still represents the most prestigious, if no longer the most powerful, influence in boxing. Nelson first accomplished prominence in our sport as a writer and aspiring Freddie Roach biographer. He is smart, scrupulous and navigationally adept. His promotion was expected.

What, then, could the passage above be about? David Marr was a brash psychology professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who, before his 35th birthday, had as many original ideas about the visual component of machine learning as the artificial-intelligence community has spawned in its 35 years since. Marr fearfully anticipated exactly what has happened: Instead of programming machines to teach themselves, technicians would make machines faster, program them with existing knowledge, and convince the laity machines were self-taught.

Two questions: Is Nelson’s professional success a product of true understanding or mimicry? And will it make a difference, either way, in his new role?

Reading Tuesday’s reports of Nelson’s promotion was unpredictably dreary work. They were mostly copy+paste jobs with written-round commentary, weblog style, and nearly no reporting that wasn’t provided by HBO itself. There were a few exceptions to this – childishly exuberant ones.

Nothing new, one says, perhaps rightly, though a tiny alarm might ring for this: Peter Nelson was a writer, and he communicates with writers, and reads them, and often pays them mind. Boxing is generally populated, or was anyway, by greedy eccentrics, men whose theories are selfaggrandizing and whose stories are entertaining as they are embellished. Nelson found partial refuge from this world in men who purported to what journalism survived in 2011 when Nelson, who’d already been a part of HBO’s selfcoverage machine, officially joined the network.

He was not hired by his boss, who left the network in 2013, or the man he now replaces; he was hired by a man who outranked both, which must’ve been a touch awkward for those involved. Nelson now reports to the man who hired him four years ago, completing a (insert cosmic modifier here) ascent that ends the Hershman Era in the same low key that defined it.

Stretching as it did to create a celebratory tone, HBO’s press release mentioned Nelson’s youth and education and a tiny increase in 2015 viewership that, one is to infer somehow, happened in correlation with the network’s featuring Gennady Golovkin and Roman Gonzalez on pay-per-view in the fall. Golovkin and Gonzalez are now HBO fighters because of Nelson’s spearheading sagacity. Golovkin and Gonzalez attracted a tiny number of pay-per-viewers in October because the previous regime was wanting, and those men are now replaced. If it doesn’t make sense particularly, it’s not supposed to; television is a flexible and fun medium about hot emotion, not sobriety.

This is the spot in a column where a writer is supposed to tap his brakes, mention the brilliance of some television folks, toss in a silly garnish about educational television, and assume an authoritative air about a medium, television, he neither understands nor takes very seriously – all in the hopes of ongoing mediacenter access to celebrity analysts, at least, and a job of his own in television someday, at most. It’s not a sensible tack for a few reasons, and the largest is this: Television is an ecosystem that knows its own, intuiting tiny markers, sending and receiving honest signals, and it knows most writers are not its kind.

It marked Nelson immediately as its kind, though, and that may bode well for the Nelson Era at HBO Sports.

At a certain level in any corporation, promotions are political happenings – the inexperienced lament this, believing as they do in what hagiographic and entrepreneurial biographies of entrepreneurs they see in bookstore windows as they walk to the cinema – and the experienced do not lament this, knowing as they do how very little actually happens above a certain paygrade. If Nelson is not now in that paygrade, he’s just below it. You read it in the sincerity of his language about collaboration; he genuinely believes the folks he now manages are uniquely talented and his job is to help them succeed. Nothing wrong with that, any talented person would cherish a boss with such qualities, but it’s altogether more political than visionary, isn’t it?

Enter Bill Simmons, a man who, if he will or will not report to Nelson, surely was not hired by Nelson. Simmons’ talents are marked by journalistic achievement more than political acumen; in telling a truth about the NFL commissioner he set a spotlight’s glare on the incestuous and interests-conflicted relationship shared by Simmons’ former employer, ESPN, and the league it pretends to cover in an objective way, and that got his employment publicly terminated and his creation, Grantland.com, vindictively dismantled.

HBO has long wanted for journalistic integrity, and a Simmons-Nelson collaboration can bring that by making Simmons something of an on-air ombudsman: Borrowing the technology with which flattering tweets are shined below the action on various networks, HBO should try a Simmons chat window somewhere on the screen during its boxing telecasts. If we’re honest, there’s nothing about Soviet-bloc fighters annihilating 20-1 underdogs that cries out for an unofficial scorekeeper anyway – how many different ways can Harold Lederman say “120 to 108, Jim!”? – and since there’s no reason to forecast any end to mismatches in the next few years, why not put Simmons in the Lederman seat and let him describe what the rest of us are already thinking? Simmons wouldn’t even need to be sarcastic or critical: When a match is awful as we already know it is, his use of, say, “. . .”, in lieu of an actual commentary, would turn the trick just fine.

Enough with the helpful suggestions. Boxing is rather diminished from what it was when Peter Nelson joined HBO. Nelson’s career already evinces navigational expertise above all. There will be no catastrophic mistakes in the Nelson Era, which means the era may well be a long one. Let us hope it navigates our beloved sport to a more fruitful place.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter @bartbarry

Jack Culcay retained his interim WBA World Light Middleweight title with a unanimous points decision against the previously unbeaten Dennis Hogan last night at the Inselparkhalle in Hamburg, Germany.

A solid performance from Culcay proved too much for Hogan, who despite his best efforts was outclassed by the German fighter who landed the cleaner and more decisive punches.

After twelve entertaining rounds, ‘Golden Jack’ was ahead 119-109, 117-112 and 116-112 on the judges’ scorecards earning the 30 year-old a first defence of his WBA interim strap and edging him closer to a shot at ‘regular’ Champion Erislandy Lara.

‘’It was a good fight,’’ said Culcay. ‘’Hogan was a tough opponent and pushed me over the distance. Looking back, there are a few things I could have done better, but overall, I was pleased with my performance. Now, I want to fight Lara for the World title!’’

Coach Ulli Wegner was impressed by his protégé. ‘’The boy is technically the best boxer we have in Germany,’’ said Wegner, who then expressed his belief that Culcay can join the World’s elite. ‘’I have no doubt Jack can become a World Champion. I believe he is ready to face Lara now.’’

Promoter Kalle Sauerland offered some clarity on the situation. ‘’The WBA Convention takes place this month in Panama,’’ he said. ‘’Here, it will be decided when Jack has the chance to fight Lara for the World title.’’

On an undercard stacked with heavyweight stars, Kubrat Pulev scored a first–round knockout win over American Maurice Harris, Dereck Chisora stopped Peter Erdos in the fifth-round of his promotional debut and Swedish prospect Adrian Granat claimed his tenth victory against British veteran Michael Sprott.

Jose Ramirez shook off a 2nd round knockdown to win an 8-round unanimous decision over Johnny Garcia at the Save Mart Arena in Fresno, California.

Ramirez was able to come back and win out the rest of the bout and win by scores of 79-73 twice and 77-74.

Ramirez, 140 lbs of Avenal, CA is 16-0. Garcia, 139 3/4 lbs of Holland, MI is 19-4-1.

Jose Louie Lopez remained undefeated by scoring a 2nd round stoppage over Dave Courchaine in a scheduled 4-round Super Middleweight bout.

In round two, Lopez dropped Courchaine with a right to the top of the head. Courchaine got to his feet, but not for long as Lopez dropped Courchaine again with a three-punch combination and the fight was stopped at 2:32.

Lopez of Fresno, CA. is now 7-0. Courchaine is 2-7.

Moises Fuentas won a 12-round split decision over Francisco Rodriguez Jr. in a Light Flyweight bout at Gimnasio Municipal Gustavo Díaz Ordaz in Tecate, Baja California, Mexico.

Scores were 116-112 twice for Fuentas. Rodriguez took a card 116-112.

Fuentas, 107 lbs of Mexico City, MX is 23-2-1. Rodriguez, 108 lbs of Monterrey, MX falls to 17-4-1.

Felipe Cayetano scored a stoppage after round 6 of his scheduled 10-round Super Bantamweight bout over Felipe Orucuta.

The time of the finish was 10 seconds into round seven.

Cayetano, 119 1/2 lbs of Tijuana, MX is 18-4 with 9 knockouts. Oracuta, 119 lbs of Mexico City, MX is 31-4.

Rafael Rivera remained undefeated by taking a 10-round split decision over former world champion Wilfredo Vazquez Jr. in a Featherweight bout at Osceola Heritage Center in Kissimmee, Florida.

Vazquez registered a knockdown with a left hook.

Rivera, 122 3/4 lbs of Tijuana, MX won by scores of 96-93 & 95-94 while Vazquez took a card 98-91.

Rivera is 21-0-2-1. Vazquez Jr. 123 1/4 lbs of Puerto Rico is 24-6-1.

Alexander Brand won a 10-round split decision over Medzhid Bektemirov in a Super Middleweight bout.

It was Bektemirov who got things started early as in round one he sent Brand to the canvas with a left hook. Brand came back to win most of the round decisively to win by scores of 98-91 twice while Bektemirov took a card 95-94.

Brand 168 3/4 lbs of Colombia is 25-1. Bektemirov, 170 1/2 lbs of Houton TX is 16-1.

5 December 2015 – Phnom Penh, Cambodia: The largest sports media property in Asian history, ONE Championship™ (ONE), delivered another evening of world-class mixed martial arts action to an arena packed full with raucous fight fans. ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER made a successful return to the Koh Pich Theatre to feature ten thrilling bouts, capped off by a spectacular main event that had fans on the very edge of their seats. In the main event, Lowen Tynanes defeated opponent Rasul Yakhyaev by Rear Naked Choke to stamp his claim as one of the best lightweight talents in ONE.

Visit the official ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER photo gallery by clicking: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ivh34n9pza3q94o/AADwuMwRg-gnDecd5AIBoQyTa?dl=0

In the main event of the evening, Lowen Tynanes of Ewa Beach, Hawaii scored a third-round submission victory over Russia’s Rasul Yakhyaev to extend his unbeaten streak to eight wins and no losses. The first round had the fighters sizing each other up with various grappling moves. In side control, Tynanes started to connect with overhand rights. A testy second round witnessed increased striking rates and ended with the Hawaiian landing a couple of well-timed kicks to a downed Yakhyaev. Tynanes then took full control of the third, utilizing his wrestling and grappling technique to subdue the Russian on the ground, sinking in a deep choke to force the tap.

In the co-main event, Malaysia’s Gianni Subba improved his MMA record with a split decision win over Thailand’s Anatpong Bunrad in a flyweight match that never once went to the ground. Subba showed icy composure as he weathered a storm of kicks from Bunrad and landed a series of highly accurate punches and elbows that had Bunrad’s nose bleeding heavily from the second round. In the end, Subba did just enough to earn the judges’ nod, moving him closer to a title shot.
Indonesia’s Mario Satya Wirawan made ONE Championship history, scoring the fastest knockout ever recorded after dispatching Cambodia’s Chan Heng in just 6 seconds of their bantamweight bout. Wirawan’s very first punch put Chan on his back, and the follow-up head kick gave referee Olivier Coste no option but to call a halt to the bout contest.

Cambodian judo expert Meas Meu collected another impressive victory in the ONE Cage with a first-round TKO stoppage of bantamweight Chan Sam Art. Meas started out hard and fast to stagger his rival, at one point picking Chan up and dumping him onto the canvas before dominating the ground exchange with a barrage of blows. The referee jumped in to wave off the contest shortly after.

Sim Bunsrun battled through adversity in an energetic flyweight clash against fellow Cambodian, Khon Sichan. Both fighters’ striking skills were in full display early on, but as the fight went to ground, Bunsrun started to connect with heavy elbows. With Sichan starting to lose control of the match, Bunsrun moved to secure an armbar submission, forcing the tap out with just five seconds remaining in the first round.

Indian female atomweight Jeet Toshi earned a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Cambodia’s Tharoth Sam. Toshi came close to a finish in the first round through strikes and an armbar submission, but ‘Little Frog’ Tharoth escaped to bring the crowd to their feet with an inspirational comeback in the subsequent round. Toshi controlled the ground game well in the third, with Tharoth barely making it through to the final bell.

Cambodian fighters Sor Sey and Chim Chetra put on a superb show in their featherweight battle that saw them go all out from the opening bell. An explosive first round had both men connecting with hard fists, elbows and knees throughout. The high intensity was matched in the second, as Sor Sey began to exert dominance on the ground, moving to top position and forcing a referee stoppage due to strikes just over a minute into the round.

Veteran Kun Khmer fighter Mission Ali went up against the youthful tenacity of fellow Cambodian featherweight Rin Saroth in the night’s second match up. As soon as the bell sounded, the contest quickly went to the ground, with Saroth executing a textbook armbar submission to earn the victory.
Eh Ya Nut and Vy Srey Chai kicked off ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER with a battle between two emerging Cambodian female flyweights. A tentative opening round was followed up by a stronger showing in the second, with both fighters scoring knees in the clinch and trading strikes on the ground. In the closing round, fierce exchanges pumped up the crowd as Vy Srey Khouch received the victory by split decision.

Official results for ONE: KINGDOM OF KHMER
Lightweight bout: Lowen Tynanes defeats Rasul Yakhyaev by Submission (Rear Naked Choke) at 1:42 minutes of round 3
Flyweight bout: Gianni Subba defeats Anatpong Bunrad by Split Decision
Bantamweight bout: Mario Satya Wirawan defeats Chan Heng by Knockout at 0:06 minutes of round 1
Bantamweight bout: Chan Rothana defeats Sam Ang Dun by TKO (Strikes) at 4:30 minutes of round 1
Bantamweight bout: Meas Meu defeats Chan Sam Art by TKO (Strikes) at 1:14 minutes of round 1
Flyweight bout: Sim Bunsrun defeats Khon Sichan by Submission (Armbar) at 4:55 minutes of round 1
Female atomweight bout: Jeet Toshi defeats Tharoth Sam by Unanimous Decision
Featherweight bout: Sor Sey defeats Chim Chetra by TKO (Strikes) at 1:12 minutes of round 2
Featherweight bout: Rin Saroth defeats Mission Ali by Submission (Armbar) at 3:52 minutes of round 1
Flyweight bout: Vy Srey Khouch defeats Eh Ya Nut by Split Decision

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About ONE Championship™
ONE Championship is the largest sports media property in Asian history. Headquartered in Singapore, the world’s most exciting mixed martial arts organization hosts the best Asian mixed martial artists and world champions, all signed to exclusive contracts, on the largest media broadcast in Asia. ONE Championship™ has partnered with FOX and STAR Sports for an unprecedented 10-year cable television deal with a coverage that spans 70+ countries across the world.

BROOKLYN, NY – In the Battle for Brooklyn, Daniel Jacobs retained his middleweight title and shocked the Barclay’s Center crowd by scoring a first round stoppage over Peter Quillin. Less than a minute into the opening round, Jacobs connected with a huge overhand right that buckled Quillin’s knees. From that point on, it was all-in or bust for Jacobs who rained down a barrage of punches on the staggering Quillin. The definitive punch came courtesy of another Jacobs overhand right that landed flush on Quillin’s temple. The crushing blow offset Quillin’s equilibrium, locked his knees, and sent him awkwardly stumbling across the ring. Referee Harvey Dock took a look at Quillin, and briefly hesitated before he jumped between the fighters to stop the contest. The time of the stoppage was 1:25 of round one.

“I hope he’s okay,” Jacobs said. “I was patient and when I came with an uppercut I knew I hurt him and that’s when I went for the kill.

“I told him I love him. Me and Peter go back to the Golden Glove days. I respect him to death, but I knew this fight would be my night. There are no lucky shots in boxing. Obviously I caught him with a shot. Once I knew I had him hurt I kept going.

“I saw his eyes and it looked like his equilibrium was off. I’m not a referee, but if I was I probably would have still gave him another opportunity.”

“I definitely would give him a rematch,” Jacobs continued. “I’m willing to fight him next if that’s what the fans want.”

Quillin seemed to disagree with the stoppage until watching the replay during his SHOWTIME post-fight interview.

“That’s right on the temple,” Quillin said. “In the moment you don’t know what happens until you see it in the replay.

“This is a time you sit with your family and figure out what you have to do. I have a lot of options, maybe a rematch is the best option.

“I can’t think of a better person to lose to than Danny Jacobs.”

Jesus Ceullar v Jonathan Oquendo — 12 Rounds, for Cuellar’s WBA Featherweight Championship

In Saturday night’s co-feature, Jesus Cuellar (28-1, 21 KO) decisioned Jonathan Oquendo (26-5, 16 KO) by wide margins to retain his WBA featherweight title.

Cuellar was the more active fighter throughout the bout, throwing over 300 more punches than his counterpart. He was also the fighter who pressed the action, forcing Oquendo to a fight mostly defensive-style bout.

The largely uneventful contest did feature a flash knockdown in the fourth found when Cuellar and Oquendo’s legs tangled and a straight left hand sent an off-balance Oquendo briefly to the mat.

The knockdown had no significant impact on the fight, as all three judges scored the fight in favor of Cuellar by significant margins.

Judges Kevin Morgan and John McKaie scored the bout 116-111, while Robin Taylor scored it a shutout for Cuellar, 120-107.

15Rounds.com scored the bout 118-109, Cuellar.

“We knew the fight would be difficult but we accomplished everything we wanted to during training camp,” Cuellar said. “The only thing that was left was the knockout, but because of the movement of his head it was impossible.

“First we’re going to rest and then we’re going to determine what’s next,” Cuellar said.
“We’ll have two more fights at featherweight and then move up in weight. Hopefully we get Leo Santa Cruz next.”

After the fight, Oquendo acknowledged that he didn’t properly implement his game plan.

“I have to give credit to Cuellar. I never got to use my game plan and he fought a good fight and he’s a good champion,” Oquendo said. “I needed to start more aggressive but I started boxing. That was my mistake. The head butt made it hard for me to see as well.

“I have time to come back and get another world title opportunity. I am disappointed, but I will be back in the gym ready to get back to work soon.”

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Chris Algieri v Erick Bone – 10 rounds, welterweight

Chris Algieri (21-2, 8 KO) bounced back from consecutive losses to Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan to earn a unanimous decision victory over Erick Bone (16-3, 8 KO). Algieri never looked sharp or comfortable against his Ecuadorian counterpart, often finding himself engaging blow-for-blow with his Ecuadorian counterpart. “I probably fought on the inside a little too much,” Algieri admitted after the fight.

Although he threw less punches than Bone, Algieri connected on 49% of his power punches, and landed 247 total punches, to Bone’s 185.

In the eight round, due to an undetected tangle of feet, Algieri knocked an off-balance Bone to the canvas with a straight right hand. That knockdown, which should have been ruled a slip or a trip, ended up being the deciding point on judge Julie Lederman’s scorecard who saw the fight 95-94, Algieri. Judges Ron McNair and Steve Weisfeld scored the bout wider with scores of 97-92.

“Erick said that he was going to have surprises, but I had a few of my own in there,” Algieri said. “I boxed a little bit and slugged more than I should have, but I was just having fun. He’s got a good punch, he’s an underestimated fighter and you could tell he was in great shape.

“This is big. Bone is a real tough guy and I felt in control. I thought the fight was mine the whole way. I wanted to get the knockout, but he was in great shape. I’m looking forward to big fights in 2016.”
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Marcus Browne v Francisco Sierra — 10 rounds, light heavyweight

Former three-time New York Golden Gloves champion Marcus Browne stayed undefeated and earned his 17th professional victory with a TKO3 over his Mexican foe, Francisco Sierra. Browne shell-shocked Sierra in the first round, landing shot after shot, and within the first 90 seconds of the match had opened up a huge cut over Sierra’s right eye that continued to worsen as the fight progressed.

Between rounds three and four, referee Earl Brown called a halt to the bout, acting on advice from the ringside physician, who inspected Sierra’s cut and felt it best that the fight be stopped.

“I saw I cut him early, but I had to stay persistent and consistent,” said Browne, of Staten Island. “I had to work the jab and keep working it. I felt like I seized this opportunity to put my name out there.

“It is an honor to fight at Barclays Center for the 10th time. It was a nice stoppage – not necessarily the kind of stoppage that you want, but a stoppage is a stoppage.”
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Yuri Foreman v Lenwood Dozier, 8 rounds, welterweight

In an eight round bout, former welterweight champion Yuri Foreman fought his way to a unanimous decision victory over Lenwood Dozier. Foreman, who hadn’t entered the ring in over two years before this contest, never seemed to get into his signature stick-and-go rhythm that propelled him to his championship back in 2009. Because of this, he found himself on the receiving end Dozier’s right hand on numerous occasions – including a stunning overhand shot in the middle of the first round. To his credit, Foreman was able to weather all storms, and at the conclusion of round eight, all three judges – Julie Lederman, Ron McNair, and Frank Lombardi – turned in scores of 77-75, Foreman.

Foreman’s record improves to 33-2, 9 KO, while Dozier’s record falls to 9-10, 4 KO.

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Will Rosinsky v Joe Smith, Jr. — 10 rounds, light heavyweight

Joe Smith, Jr. (20-1, 16 KO) decisioned fellow New York light heavyweight Will Rosinsky (19-3, 10 KO) to notch the biggest win of his career. Smith Jr. used his bigger frame to impose his will on his smaller opponent – often walking Rosinsky backward before settling in to throw heavy punches. Both fighters excited early arrivers at the Barclay’s Center with their willingness to take a punch in order to land their own; engaging in numerous ruthless exchanges throughout. At the conclusion of the fight, all three judges scored the fight in favor of Smith Jr. Judge Ron McNair saw it 98-92; Frank Lombardi scored it 97-93; and Steve Weisfeld had it 96-92.

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Luis Garcia v Willie Williams – 4 rounds, cruiserweight

Undefeated Cuban cruiserweight Luis Garcia scored a first round TKO over Willie Williams. With the win, Garcia, who now fights out of Cork, Ireland improves his record to 13-0, 10 KO, while Williams’ record now reads 14-11-2, 4 KO.

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Titus Williams v Emmanuel Castro — 6 rounds, featherweight

In a six round bout that saw both fighters hit the canvas in round one, Long Island’s Titus Williams (4-0, 2 KO) outlasted Los Angeles’ Emmanuel Castro to stay undefeated. Williams earned a unanimous decision victory by scores of 60-54, 60-53, and 59-54.

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Heather Hardy v Noemi Bosques — 8 rounds, bantomweight

Brooklyn’s Heather Hardy defeated Florida’s Noemi Bosques for the second time in seven months via a unanimous decision. Hardy earned a split decision victory of Bosques back in May, but this time around left no doubts in the judge’s minds as she dominated the contest from start to finish. Judge’s scorecards read 80-72, twice, and 79-73, all in favor of Hardy.