The next documentary from ESPN Films’ Peabody and Emmy Award-winning 30 for 30 series will be “Chasing Tyson,” premiering on Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN. Directed by the Oscar- and Emmy-nominated filmmaker Steven Cantor, the film examines why so many years went by before Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson finally met in the ring.

Holyfield was a journeyman boxer who had earned respect with victorious bouts against greats like Buster Douglas, Riddick Bowe and George Foreman. He won the heavyweight championship belt four times. But it was Mike Tyson’s outsized personality and ferocious punches that cast a commanding shadow over boxing in the 1980s and ’90s. Even when “Iron Mike” was in prison, the heavyweight division belonged to him. Meanwhile, Holyfield endured years of delay while waiting for the opportunity to take down Tyson.

Though Holyfield dramatically lost and recaptured the heavyweight crown, and then lost it again, even he understood that his career would ultimately be defined by how he stood up to Tyson – if he ever got his chance. By the time of their much-hyped and oft-delayed heavyweight title bout in November of 1996, Holyfield was 34 years old and considered past his prime. Four years younger, Tyson was heavily favored to be standing over another meek and easily vanquished opponent at the end. Instead, the world got not one, but two of the sport’s most memorable fights – for very different reasons.

Additional information, including film clips and director statements and bios, are available at espn.com/30for30. Follow 30 for 30 on Facebook (facebook.com/espn30for30) and Twitter (@30for30). 30 for 30 is presented by Volkswagen. Fans can join the conversation on social media using #ChasingTyson.

About ESPN Films
Created in March 2008, ESPN Films produces high-quality documentary films showcasing some of the most compelling stories in sports. In October 2009, ESPN Films launched the Peabody and Emmy Award-winning 30 for 30 film series. Additional projects from ESPN Films include the decorated series 30 for 30 Shorts, Nine for IX and SEC Storied among others.

Nov. 4, 2015 – Fight fans eager for a revealing inside look at the eagerly anticipated November 21st HBO Pay-Per-View® middleweight championship superfight between Miguel Cotto and Canelo Alvarez, should mark their calendars to catch an all-new edition of “Face Off,” starring the two prizefighters. “Face Off With Max Kellerman: Cotto/Canelo” debuts Saturday, Nov. 14 at 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT).

Moderated by Max Kellerman, “Face Off” is an insightful and often gripping interview session in which the two fighters square off and answer Kellerman’s questions. This marks Alvarez’s first appearance on “Face Off,” and Cotto’s fourth appearance on the series. In addition, the fighters will be joined on the set by their accomplished trainers. Both Freddie Roach and Eddy Reynoso will participate in the roundtable.

The Cotto/Canelo edition of “Face Off” is set to air multiple times on HBO and HBO2. “Face Off” will also be available on the HBO On Demand® service, HBO NOW, HBO GO® and at www.hbo.com/boxing as well as various other new media platforms that distribute the program.

HBO air times include: November 15 (12:00 p.m. & 6:45 p.m.), 16 (4:00 p.m. & 5:50 a.m.), 17 (11:00 p.m.), 18 (2:00 p.m.), 20 (1:00 a.m.) and 21 (12:00 p.m.).

HBO 2 air times include: November 15 (3:15 a.m.), 17 (1:45 p.m.), 18 (9:45 p.m.), 19 (10:30 a.m.), 20 (7:30 p.m.) and 21 (5:00 p.m.).

All times are ET/PT.

“Face Off With Max Kellerman: Cotto/Canelo” is part of the wide-ranging mix of original programming content being produced for the latest chapter in the storied Puerto Rico-Mexico boxing rivalry. It all culminates when Cotto vs. Canelo takes place Saturday, Nov. 21 from The Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The fight card will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET/ 6:00 p.m. PT.

A pair of childhood friends and now promotional stablemates will both be in the fights of their lives tonight, in two of the marquee matchups of the stacked Andrey Ryabinsky/World Boxing Promotions boxing show at the Basket-Hall Arena in Kazan, Russia.

Lateef “Power” Kayode (21-0, 16 KOs) will face WBA World Cruiserweight Champion Denis Lebedev (27-2, 20 KOs) in the 12-round co-main event and fellow Nigerian Larry “God’s Power” Durodola (21-2, 19 KOs) will face Russian KO artist Dmitry “The Russian Hammer” Kudryashov (18-0, 18 KOs) over 12 rounds for the WBC Silver Cruiserweight Championship.

Kayode and Olanrewaju have known each other since childhood in Lagos, Nigeria, and as amateur boxers, they were on several national teams together.

“Try to figure out the odds of two Nigerians growing up together, both ending up with me as their American promoter and both in the most important fights of the careers on the same show in Russia,” said Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions. “It makes you think this was meant to be for all these variables to come together like this to make this happen.”

Cohen, who is in Russia with his fighters, says he thinks these incredible coincidences are a good sign of big things to come.

“It’s got to be fate that these guys are here and I expect them both to come out victorious,” Cohen continued. “For Lateef, it’ll be his first world championship after a long and distinguished career and for Larry, a victory over this guy who has KO’d all his opponents before him will establish him as the WBC’s top rated contender. It’s going to be a very special night.”

Also scheduled for war are top European heavyweights Alexander Povetkin and Mariusz Wach, as well as cruiserweight contenders Rakhim Chakhkiev (23-1, 18 KOs) and Ola Afolabi (21-2-2, 10 KOs), who will do battle for the IBO Championship.

It’s a sensational night for boxing tonight and it’s looking like it’ll be one of the more special nights in my company’s history as well. I’m very excited to get this thing started,” said Cohen.
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, women’s boxing superstar Amanda Serrano, 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.

Anthony Crolla has backed gym-mate Callum Smith to stop Rocky Fielding late when the pair clash for the vacant British Super Middleweight title at the Echo Arena in Liverpool on Saturday night, live on Sky Sports.

Crolla has been side-by-side with Smith through the Liverpool man’s camp as he prepares for his rematch with WBA World Lightweight champion Darleys Perez in Manchester on November 21, and ‘Million Dollar’ says while Fielding has improved, Smith is a World champion in the making.

“I believe it comes down to Callum being a level above him,” said Crolla. “That is what I feel. Some people might disagree with that but I feel that come Saturday that is what will show. I believe that Callum is destined to be a World champion, I really do. I have seen in the gym and I look at him and I tell young amateur kids if there is one person to watch it is Callum Smith because of how technically correct he is. I believe Callum is a level above Rocky and that is without meaning any disrespect to Rocky. I think Rocky is improving all the time and he is a good fighter and he will come back after this to win titles, but I believe on Saturday, Callum will show his a level above Rocky.

“I think Rocky has gone under the radar a little bit and he has learned his trade well. There is no doubting, and no denying, that he has improved fight-by-fight. I think Rocky is a very good fighter but I believe, and no disrespect to Rocky in any way.

“I think there are a few major factors in how the fight will go. One is who establishes the jab better and first; that will play a huge part in it. Another factor will be who does the 12-round distance better. That is another thing I feel that Callum has in his favour because he has done it against better opponents. I know they will both be in the best shape of their career but I do believe that little bit of experience for Callum, having been in with the better lads, will also come into play.

“Is very tricky to call if the fight will go to distance. A lot of that will depend on how Rocky approaches the fight. If Rocky starts exchanging then probably not but if it becomes a bit of a chess match then I think Callum will either get him late or on points.”

Smith’s clash with Fielding tops a massive night of boxing on Merseyside with the coveted Lord Lonsdale belt taking centre stage as Scotty Cardle defends his Lightweight title against local favourite Sean ‘Masher’ Dodd.

Ricky Burns can take a huge step towards reclaiming his WBO World Lightweight title when he faces Josh King for the Inter-Continental Lightweight title, Prizefighter champion Tom Doran meets Rod Smith in an eliminator for the British Middleweight title and unbeaten Lightweight talent Ohara Davies faces Chris Truman.

Limited tickets are sale now from the Echo Arena website www.echoarena.com and on 0844 8000 400 – priced £40, £60, £80, £100 and £150.

Tickets for November 7 are available from http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ – StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua.

White hot Swindon super-middle Jamie Cox knows that another sizzling stoppage win on the undercard of the ‘Second Coming’ bill at Dublin’s National Stadium on Saturday, could vault him straight into a world title crack early next year.

The unbeaten 29 year old southpaw stunner defends his WBO European crown against 22 year old Hungarian Ferenc Albert in a scheduled 10 rounder but expects to be in the shower much earlier.

‘‘I’ve watched the kid on tape for a few rounds. He’s won ten back-to-back now he’ll be going out on his back. I need to demolish him to get to where I want to be,’ says joltin’ Jamie who is coached by John Costello and managed by Lee Beard.

‘I always prepare to do all the (scheduled) rounds. I always spar between eight and 12. But when it ends early on fight night, I ain’t complaining. Earlier the better. You never want to be taking extra punches for fun at this level.’

After bagging a Commonwealth Games gold medal down at light-welter in 2006, then a Commonwealth professional title at light-middle in 2011, the 5ft 11in Wiltshire wonder re-surfaced this year at a beefy 12 stone. Clearly, it was at no cost to his fabled punch power as both comeback opponents were left writhing on the carpet, long before the first round had concluded.

‘I’ll definitely not be found wanting for strength at the new weight,’ claims Cox who is undefeated in 19, with 11 early endings.

‘I’ve sparred with James DeGale and I felt more than strong enough. From the age of 15 to 20, I was doing ground work on building sites six or seven days a week.

‘Lately, I’ve been working with a good level British cruiserweight, six to eight rounds at a time and again, no problems. I’ve always had quick hands and my speed is more telling against these heavier guys. Likewise, the super-middles are a bit slower than the lighter fighters. You see the shots earlier.’

A brutal body puncher, blessed with a recently re-constructed wrecking ball back hand, Cox is spreading fear and menace through his new division, just as he did when romping to the senior ABA title as a teenager in 2005-6.

‘I don’t want points. Boxing’s the entertainment business and fans come to see knockouts. I want them to witness something special after they’ve shelled out their hard earned money,’ says the qualified fitness instructor who fought just once between September 2011 and February 2015 due to the worst hand injuries promoter Frank Warren claimed he’d ever witnessed.

‘I work exceptionally hard in the gym to get the job done. The gym is where you do the studying to pass the exam on fight night. I eat right, sleep right, train right and all of that gives you confidence that you’ll perform right when it matters.’

‘I’m looking a world title fight early next year. When I get the job done this weekend it’ll take me to 20-0. I’ve been in the game long enough and now I’m now world ranked. I just need the opportunity. When it arrives, I won’t let it slip. We’ve worked way too hard to let this slip,’

Already rated as number eight contender to Arthur Abraham in the WBO listings, the Wiltshire wonder is happy to chance his arm against any of the reigning global belt holders. He is more than happy to duke it out against the rich band of domestic contenders to cement his worth.

‘I’ll basically fight whoever I have to, to get a world title shot; the winner of Smith-Fielding, Buglioni, Paul Smith, (Martin) Murray, Groves, DeGale, any of them. I’d knock any 12stone man in the UK spark out. I’m not cocky but over the last few years I’ve really got my head down. A world title is all that’s in our mindset,’ says Cox, who often speaks in the plural in deference to his back-up team.

‘I don’t care if it’s DeGale (IBF), Badou Jack (WBC) or Fedor Chudinov (WBA). If we get a chance, we’ll be world champion because we work harder than any of them.

How? By knocking them out! From now on that’s my mindset for every fight. I’ve got huge natural power, and I’ll fashion the openings through my boxing skills, by being scientific.’

‘Frank works closely with Wlad (Hrunov) and Fedor’s fought here before so that should be do-able. I’d like it made as soon as possible.

‘The way I’m performing in sparring, I know I’d knock Chudinov out. He’s not hard to find. He fights like me but I’ve got better tools. Frank Buglioni gave a decent account of himself when he challenged Fedor but was gun shy early. I won’t be.

‘I’ve been at the Mayweather gym in Vegas so I know Badou Jack’s level and I know he definitely gets wiped out.’

Irish fans can certainly expect their fix of fireworks on Bonfire weekend.

‘‘I’m pretty lucky. I’m half Welsh, half Irish. I’ve a lot of family in Donegal so I’ll have good support,’ concludes Cox.

‘I just want to keep the buzz going. Above all, I want to give a pleasing display to those who pay to come and support me. That’s what I value most.’

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise the show 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.

Ellesmere Port ace Paul Butler will face Former Two-Time European Champion Silvio Olteanu for the Vacant WBO European Super-Flyweight title on Saturday 19th December at the Manchester Arena in a crucial must-win fight as he lines up a world title shot next year.

Former World Champion Butler features on Frank Warren’s title-packed X-Mas show headlined by the crunch fight between WBO World Middleweight Champion Andy Lee and Billy Joe Saunders, and Liam Smith’s first WBO World Super-Welterweight title defence.

Butler, who previously held the IBF World Bantamweight title, is still focussed on winning a second world title in a lighter weight division even though he came up short in his attempt at IBF king Zolani Tete in March when he was stopped in eight rounds.

Since then, he’s smashed his way back with a win over Gustavo Molina in five rounds in July and then destroyed Hector Rolando Gusman last month with one devastating left to the body in the first round.

A potential blockbuster against Irish rival Jamie Conlan, the current WBO Intercontinental Champion, could happen next year and Butler aims to despatch of Olteanu to remain on track.

“This is my first title fight since the Tete fight and I’m desperate to get a belt around my waist again,” Said Butler.

“I’ve proved that the Tete fight wouldn’t dent my confidence and I believe I’ve improved and come back stronger from it as you’ve seen in my last two fights,”

“Now I’m in facing a tougher test against a good former European Champion in Olteanu who will make me raise my game and maybe give me a harder test. He’s never been stopped and I’m looking to be the first,”

“He can bring what he likes to the ring, I’m focussed on what I’ve got to do and that’s to destroy him and get him out of the way so I can move on in my career and get that second world title,”

“That could lead to Conlan next year which is a belter of a fight that I’m confident I’d win, but right now I’m dealing with Olteanu and getting the important win.”

Olteanu, who is Hungarian born and fights out of Madrid, has held the European Super-Flyweight title twice and has lost on points in a WBA World title challenge in 2010. He’s never been stopped in 24 fights and fighting in England won’t faze him as he’s fought around the world.

“I will show this little kid what is to fight with a man. He has been protected fighting in his backyard all his career,” Stormed Olteanu.

If you want to became the best, you have to visit the home of your opponent. I have fought several times in France, Japan, Mexico, Italy only losing for the World title in Japan by split decision and in Mexico by majority decision twice and everybody knows what that means,”

“I have fought five times for the European title losing only once on points, so I have proved already that I am the best in Europe”

“I have never ever been stopped and I have fought already ten titles bouts, so lets see if Butler is able to beat me.”

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

www.frankwarren.com

TicketMaster
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www.ticketmaster.co.uk

Eventim
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0161 950 5000
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*Tickets are subject to a booking fee.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise the show 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.

Josh King says he will derail Ricky Burns’ World title ambitions when they clash at the Echo Arena in Liverpool on Saturday night, live on Sky Sports.

King and Burns clash for the vacant WBO Inter-Continental Lightweight title with Burns hunting down his old World crown, but the Australian – ranked number eight in the WBO – has other ideas and says his style is all wrong for the Scotsman as he looks to land a World title shot of his own.

“I think my style of fighting will give Ricky loads of problems,” said King. “It will also win over the crowd and his promoter, Eddie Hearn.

“I been watching Ricky Burns for the past few years and hoping for this night to come. We’ve got a great plan to beat the ex-World champion. My mind set is too strong. I’m feeling very confident of getting a new WBO strap.

“In the new ratings I am ranked at number eight with the WBO and when I win this I’m looking forward to coming back to the UK to beat Terry Flanagan. I’m ready to fight any Lightweight champion anywhere, anytime.

“When this opportunity came up I jumped at it. This is exactly what I wanted. I can’t wait to get it on with this guy and get a win over a two-division World champion.

“A victory will give me the opportunity to fight for the World title but I know Ricky has pedigree and it’s not going to be easy. Ricky has done some great things in the ring.

“I’ve done a lot of things differently for this fight. I’ve changed trainers and gone to an experienced Steve Deller. I’m training in Townsville North Queensland at the Bad Boys gym. I’m more than ready to win. I see it going the distance. I’ve got to get in and out-work him; show some angles and move on him.”

King’s clash with Burns is part of a huge night of action on Merseyside as unbeaten Liverpool Super Middleweights Callum Smith and Rocky Fielding clash for the vacant British title.

Scotty Cardle defends his British Lightweight title against local favourite Sean ‘Masher’ Dodd, Prizefighter champion Tom Doran meets Rod Smith in an eliminator for the British Middleweight title and unbeaten Lightweight talent Ohara Davies faces Chris Truman.

Limited tickets are sale now from the Echo Arena website www.echoarena.com and on 0844 8000 400 – priced £40, £60, £80, £100 and £150.

Tickets for November 7 are available from http://www.stubhub.co.uk/matchroom-boxing-tickets/ – StubHub is the official ticket partner and marketplace of Matchroom Boxing and Anthony Joshua MBE.

Danish featherweight sensation Dennis Ceylan (16-0-1, 7 KOs) has signed a three-year contract extension with European powerhouse promoter Team Sauerland, and will be back in action on December 12 on the undercard of Patrick Nielsen and Rudy Markussen’s domestic mega-fight at the Brondby Hallen in Copenhagen.

Since signing professional terms in September 2012, Ceylan has taken the paid ranks by storm, establishing himself as one of Europe’s top boxing prospects.

Following an impressive start to 2015, which has seen the London 2012 Olympian produce a series of show stealing performances including a memorable win over former World Champion Dmitry Kirillov, the Aarhus-boxer has committed his future to Team Sauerland as he sets his sights on European and World honours.

‘’I’m very happy to have signed a contact extension with Team Sauerland and I look forward to seeing what they have in store for me during the next three years,’’ said Ceylan.

‘’It’s no secret that I want to fight for titles and become European and World Champion, and I’m confident they will deliver me the fights to make this happen. I will just keep doing my job, training hard and winning fights, and leave the rest to them. They are the best promoters in Europe, and I couldn’t wish for a better team around me.’’

‘’We’re delighted that Dennis has chosen to sign with us for another three years,’’ said promoter Nisse Sauerland. ‘’We’ve been with him from the very start of his career and we look forward to continuing our journey together. 2016 is going to be a big year for him; we have a lot of exciting plans lined up. We know Dennis can deliver and we expect him to go all the way to the top.’’

Boxing fans will not have to wait long to see Ceylan back in the ring. The 26 year-old is the first Danish name confirmed for the undercard of the domestic mega-fight between Patrick Nielsen and Rudy Markussen on December 12 at the Brondby Hallen.

‘’Of course I’m looking forward to fighting again. I love to fight,’’ said Ceylan. ‘’I hope I can make my fans happy with another good performance. It’s a big night for Patrick and Rudy, the tickets are already almost sold out, so I’m sure there’s going to be a great atmosphere.’’

Tickets for Bad Blood: Patrick Nielsen vs. Rudy Markussen on December 12 at the Brondby Hallen in Copenhagen are available online via billetlugen.dk or by calling (+45) 75 263 267. The fight will be shown live and exclusive on Pay-Per-View in Denmark on Viasat and Viaplay. More information on how to access the Pay-Per-View will be released shortly.

Queensberry Promotions will no longer be promoting or working with Dereck Chisora.

LONDON (4 NOVEMBER) Undefeated Cardiff cruiserweight Craig ‘The Kid’ Kennedy knows that victory on November 14 in Bristol can pave the way for a British title shot in the new year, but is quick to stress he’s taking it one step at a time.

The talented 30-year-old outscored Courtney Fry in an eliminator for the British title in June and, should he remain undefeated next weekend, can expect to meet Tony Conquest in a final eliminator for the Lonsdale belt by the end of next February.

“I’m not overlooking the opponent,” said Kennedy. “I never overlook anyone. But my main focus is obviously on that final eliminator in the new year. If I take care of business on November 14, it will be all systems go for the Tony Conquest bout, which has to take place before February 2016. That’s the plan.

“I’ve been searching for these fights for God knows how long. Tony Conquest is a very good fighter, but the better the opponent, the better I perform. I think I’m a few levels above him and I just can’t wait to show Britain what I’m capable of.

“I want to attack these top ten fighters and make my mark now. That’s all me and my team have been gunning for. I want to thank Tony for taking the opportunity. He wants the same thing I want. It makes for a very good match-up.”

Londoner Conquest, a professional for six years, may boast an edge in experience over Kennedy, but the unbeaten Welshman is adamant he possesses the greater power and durability.

“I feel I’m better all-round,” he said. “I know he’s quite fond of hitting the canvas. He’s been there a few times. And even though my record only shows a 50% knockout ratio, I can punch with both hands. If he comes to fight, which I know he will, there’s a very good chance he won’t see the final bell.”

Kennedy’s initial tune-up fight, scheduled for last Friday (October 30), fell through following the withdrawal of his opponent, but, much to his delight, he has found his way on to the bumper Bristol bill on November 14. As such, his preparations were able to continue without a hitch.

“It was really good news for me and the team after all the hard work we’ve put in lately,” he said. “We’ve made adjustments, we’ve been away to Russia for training, and I desperately wanted the fans to see the improvements.

“Mick Hennessy and the Sanigars have done us a massive favour. All the training is worth something now and I can’t wait to show off my skills to a different audience and show the Bristol people what I’m all about.”

A man now very much in-demand, Kennedy, 12-0 (6 KOs), recently spent three weeks in Russia sparring WBC number two-ranked cruiserweight Dmitry Kudryashov, a terrifying puncher who has won each of his eighteen professional fights within the scheduled distance. Fear not. Kennedy not only lived to tell the tale, he also held his own.

“I learnt an awful lot,” he said, “both in terms of boxing and my life outside of boxing. I just feel like I’m a different person heading into this fight.

“This game is all about mental strength. When you go there and hold your own with fighters who are ranked miles ahead of you, it can only do good things for your confidence and self-belief. It’s only going to make me stronger as a person and as a fighter.”

*** For tickets to BANG BANG: The Knockout Kings, please contact the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402, the Sanigar Events Box Office on 0117 949 6699 or visit www.hennessysports.com ***

*** Blackwell vs. Matthews will be televised live and exclusively on Channel 5 from 10pm, Saturday, November 14. Meanwhile, Hughie Lewis Fury, Craig Kennedy and a pick of the Bristol undercard will be televised earlier in the evening on Spike ***

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According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former 4-division world champion Nonito Donaire as re-upped his deal with Top and will most likely be fighting Cesar Juarez on December 11 in Puerto Rico.

“Nonito came to the office to meet with me and sign the contract. And he said, ‘No more fooling around, no more being a celebrity. I’m a fighter, and I’m going to work hard and stay in the gym, and you will see the best Nonito Donaire you’ve ever seen,'” Top Rank chairman Bob Arum told ESPN.com. “I think Donaire is really serious now. He’s a great fighter, and I don’t count him out against anybody.”

“I feel good about the deal. I’ve had some setbacks, but I’ve put myself in good position with this deal,” Donaire said. “We want to fight the best fighters Top Rank has to offer, and it says in the contract that Top Rank will try to make fights for me with the best available opponents, like Lomachenko and a rematch with Walters.

“Those fights are there for me, and I am happy about that and happy knowing I will get the opportunity for big fights. We’re happy about the deal and the possibility of fighting the best fighters that Top Rank can make available to me.”

Donaire said the fight with Juarez was “icing on the contract. I can start my rise back up. That’s the opportunity Top Rank presented to me, and it’s a good one. He’s a really rugged guy.

“That’s all we know about him. We’ve heard a lot of talk that he’s a tough guy and that he sparred with [lightweight titleholder Jorge] Linares. He can wear you down. He has the Mexican style and will try to take whatever I can dish out to him. We are not looking past him. We’re getting some tapes of him.”

“I would love to fight Lomachenko,” Donaire said. “Lomachenko is a really good fighter and a really good test for me to see where I’m at. There’s talk they want to come down [to junior featherweight], but if not, we’ll go back up to featherweight.

“I took things for granted before. I’m taking things for granted anymore, and I am thankful for every little thing in my life.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, a report that Amir Khan signed a contract to fight Manny Pacquiao is false as per Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum.

Arum, however, called the report “total bulls—.”

“I haven’t sent a contract to him. We haven’t sent anything to him,” Arum told ESPN.com on Tuesday. “Don’t you think I’m the promoter of the fight and I would know if I sent a contract? It’s total bulls—. It’s not true. This is f—ing ridiculous. There is no deal. There is no contract. There has been no decision whatsoever.”

“Top Rank has sent a contract to neither of them,” Arum said. “Top Rank will send a contract to one of them when Manny makes his decision on who he wants to fight. Right now, what we are doing is trying to decide between Crawford and Khan for April 9. But [the reported agreement with Khan] is such bulls—. I don’t know what Khan said he signed. Don’t I have the right to draw up a contract with either guy? I don’t know who Manny wants to fight.”

While Arum was on the phone with ESPN.com at the Top Rank building in Las Vegas, he received a call on his cell phone from Cameron Dunkin, Crawford’s manager, who had gotten wind of the Daily Mail report. Arum began shouting at Dunkin, “It’s not true! It’s total bulls—! Tell Crawford it’s not true!”

Featherweight title holder Gary Russell Jr. suffered a cut in training that will prevent him from making a title defense of November 14 against Oscar Escandon on Showtime, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com

“The network was informed earlier [Monday] that Gary sustained a cut in training and is unable to fight,” Showtime spokesman Chris DeBlasio told ESPN.com. “Of course we are sorry to hear this and we are evaluating our options for the Nov. 14 show. We expect to have an announcement in the next couple of days.”

LAS VEGAS (November 3, 2015) – World Series of Fighting® (WSOF.com) today announced the signing of multiple-time world Muay Thai champion and prolific lightweight (155 pounds) MMA star Cosmo “Good Boy” Alexandre (6-1) to an exclusive, multi-year agreement.

The promotional debut of the 33-year-old Alexandre of Boca Raton, Fla. via Brazil will be announced soon.

“As a former kickboxing world champion who also made the transition to MMA, I am excited to welcome Cosmo Alexandre to our roster and see him perform,” said World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo. “With the addition of Cosmo, our lightweight division is stronger than ever, and I think he will provide World Series of Fighting fans with a number of memorable encounters in the cage and, perhaps make a run at our lightweight world championship.”

Born and raised in Brazil, Alexandre was an elite athlete from a young age, and began his Muay Thai training as a teenager. Fighting professionally since 2004, he has gained recognition for being one of the world’s best strikers, as witnessed by his multiple world titles, including the Lion Fight super middleweight crown that he holds.

Alexandre has been perfect in the kickboxing ring in 2015, reeling off victories in all three of his starts. In the MMA universe, he is in the midst of a six fight win streak that includes a unanimous decision over Josh Quayhagen, the only fighter who had previously beaten Alexandre under MMA rules.

Four of Alexandre’s six career MMA wins have come by way of knockout, including two inside the first round of action.

Live World Series of Fighting action returns to NBCSN on Friday, Nov. 20, at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT with the promotion’s first-ever one-night, eight-man tournament in history. The winner, who will have fought three times in one night, will be named the number one contender in the coveted lightweight division.

About “World Series of Fighting” (WSOF®)
“World Series of Fighting” (WSOF) is a worldwide premier professional Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight promotion dedicated to delivering the best action-packed fights for fight fans by producing the best possible match-ups between elite fighters from around the world. For more information please visit WSOF.com. Follow “World Series of Fighting” on Twitter @MMAWorldSeries and “World Series of Fighting” President Ray Sefo @SugarRaySefo. WSOF and World Series of Fighting are registered trademarks of MMAWC, LLC.

Kunming, China (November 3, 2015) On Monday at the World Boxing Council’s 53rd Annual Convention in Kunming, China, boxing superstar, WBA/IBF/IBO and WBC “Interim” Middleweight World Champion Gennady “GGG” Golovkin, was honored by the sanctioning body in addressing the attendees on behalf of all current and former champions in attendance.

“It was great to be asked by Mauricio Sulaiman to speak for the champions”, said Golovkin. “With Evander Holyfield, Larry Holmes and my hero Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. present it was an honor for me.”

In addition to speaking at and attending the convention, Golovkin spent a wealth of time greeting the large groups of attendees and fans who waited for photos and autographs.

“Coming to China and attending the WBC convention was a great experience for Gennady,” said Tom Loeffler of K2 Promotions. “The outpouring of support from the fans has been tremendous and clearly outlines that he is one of the most marketable international fighters in boxing.”

On October 17, Golovkin added the IBF Middleweight Title to his collection in a title unification bout against David Lemieux. The eighth round stoppage took place in front of a sold-out crowd of 20,548 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. His record of 34-0 with 31 knockouts includes a 91% knockout ratio, the highest in middleweight division history.

BROOKLYN (November 3, 2015) – Top New York-area boxing talent featured in undercard action on Saturday, December 5 at Barclays Center, hosted a media roundtable at McMahon’s Public House in Brooklyn today to discuss their upcoming showdowns.

Erick Bone (16-2, 8 KOs), the welterweight contender facing Long Island’s Chris Algieri, former world champion Yuri Foreman (32-2, 9 KOs), undefeated rising star from Staten Island and 2012 U.S. Olympian “Sir” Marcus Browne (16-0, 12 KOs), undefeated Brooklyn-native Heather “The Heat” Hardy (14-0, 3 KOsand Queens native firefighter Will “Power” Rosinsky (19-2, 10 KOs) who takes on Long Island’s Joe Smith Jr. (19-1, 16 KOs) were in attendance and spoke to the media shortly after posing in front of Barclays Center.

The loaded lineup of fights will precede the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXINGÒ doubleheader headlined by the all-Brooklyn battle between middleweight world champion Daniel “The Miracle Man” Jacobs (30-1, 27 KOs) and former world champion Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (32-0-1, 23 KOs). ). In the co-feature, WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar (27-1, 21 KOs) will face exciting Puerto Rican contender Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (26-4, 16 KOs).

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center.

Below is what the fighters had to say Monday:

ERICK BONE

“Camp has been excellent so far. I’ve been training for a while now and I’ve been working really hard.

“When I first heard Algieri’s name, I was a little surprised about it. Once I realized it, I got really excited and happy because If I can pull off the win, this will be big for my career.

“Something I learned from my last fight is, I don’t have to respect an opponent. I lose all respect for the person I’m fighting as soon as they’re in the ring.

Another thing I learned is, if I get injured, I need to stop. I was injured in the second round of my fight with Shawn Porter, but I kept going and fought for three rounds with one knee. I had to wear a cast for two months right after that fight. My knee is 100 percent healed now.

“I feel like I’m a boxer-puncher. I can box and I can punch.

“In reality, to beat Algieri, all I have to do is listen to my coach, my corner and my whole team.”

YURI FOREMAN

“I believe that timing is everything. I’ve been off for two years. I realized that I needed a little rest. I love boxing. It is something that I’ve loved since I was a kid and I feel like I wanted to do it more.

“[On ending retirement] It’s a combination of a variety of things. I wouldn’t come back just for the rush of it – I would probably jump out of an airplane if I needed a rush. I like the daily routine. It’s going to the gym, it’s keeping a mental, emotional and spiritual balance. I want to become a world champion again.

“I’ve been in the gym since June, so more than half a year. Camp is good. I have friends and sparring partners that are helping me. It is the same as any fighter – preparation is a routine.

“It is refreshing to be back in the ring. I feel more centered spiritually and mentally. I am more mature. I just feel stronger all around.

“This is great. I live on 6th street so 10 or 15 blocks away. I’ve always wanted to fight at Barclays Center. One of the things you learn about your life about yourself. Every human has a desire and a goal. I had a desire to fight here and now I am. It is a big card with a lot of talent and great fighters. I am happy to be a part of it.

“I always consider myself a smart fighter and boxer. I would say I’ve added more aggression to my arsenal since the last time I was in the ring.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“Everything is going as planned and I’m staying focused for December 5. I’m ready to take care of business as usual.

“I went into my last fight with a different mentality. And I’m going into this fight exactly the same way. I’m not playing with anybody. I need to make a statement this year because this is an important time in my boxing career. The light heavyweight division is picking up and I need to make a solid name for myself.

“I see a lot of openings in a lot of people’s games, but I have some openings in my own game too that I need to tighten up. You cannot afford to have those types of openings at this level.

“I’ve been bumping up the conditioning as I’ve been getting fights with more rounds. I’m ready to go 10 rounds right now.”

HEATHER HARDY

“I hate doing rematches because it’s so redundant, I already beat you. It was a split decision from a crazy judge, she feels like she can come back and beat me. I didn’t want to deny her because we put on a great show for the fans.

“People at the fight knew I won the fight and that it was a clear decisive win, but when people see ‘split decision’ there are always questions that arise because she is such a good legitimate fighter. I’m giving her another chance.

“I did three fights in a row over the summer, so it was nice to take a little break. I’m happy to get back in there.

“It’s an honor to fight at Barclays Center. I am the first girl to ever fight there and I want to keep the door open and keep the momentum going.

“The truth of the matter is; women don’t get the recognition that they deserve [in this sport]. What people see, I’m a sole leader in women’s boxing, but behind the scenes, there are girls out there kicking ass all over the place. My stablemate just won a world title, oldest woman to win a world title in the Guinness Book of World Records. It is kind of sad that we aren’t all getting the recognition we deserve.

“I hate looking past a fight, but without saying too much — I want 2016 to be my world title year. I earned it and I’m so ready for it.”

WILL ROSINSKY

“I’m kind of ahead of the game in terms of weight because I thought I would be fighting in October, but when this opportunity came up, I had to take it.

“Fighting at Barclays Center is an opportunity that I was looking forward to getting and now that its here, I’m really excited. Barclays Center is becoming the center for sports. There’s been a lot of great cards there and I’ve been at many of them and I’m happy to be a part of the actual card.

“I know Joe Smith well because we spar a lot. He helped me get ready for Kelly Pavlik when I fought him a few years ago. He is a tall, long and strong kid. He has power in both hands. I’m working on boxing him, brawling with him a little bit — taking him into deep water. He has a lot of knockouts and hasn’t gone the distance too much so it’s something that he’s not used to, but I am used to it. Make sure he isn’t ready for it.

“The best way I can describe it would be effective aggression. I am kind of aggressive, but I can box a little bit and I surprise guys. I’m a fan-friendly kind of fighter, which might not always be good for me, but it’s good for the crowd.

“I think that mine and Joe’s fight is going to stand out in terms of the card. I think the main event is going to be a great fight also, but I think fans will see a lot of grit and toe-to-toe action with a lot of punches thrown for 10 rounds in our fight.”

JOE SMITH JR.

“I’ve been training all over the place. Lots of gyms. Wherever I can. I’ve been working on my speed, combination punches and moving a lot more.

“I just want to show that I can beat anybody if I put my mind to it. I’m trying to focus hard on this fight.

“My fans can expect to see a lot of action. I’m a big puncher and I like to throw a lot of punches.

“I’m very excited for it. It’s definitely the biggest place I’ve ever fought at and I can’t wait. Once I’m in the ring, I just focus on what’s going on there. Fighting at Barclays Center doesn’t affect me that way.

“Will was always a big sparring partner of mine to get me ready for my fights, so now I just have to find sparring elsewhere.

“I think the fans are going to see something that they didn’t expect when Will and I meet in the ring.”

# # #

Tickets for the live event start at $50, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com, www.barclayscenter.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are also available at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. The event is promoted by DiBella Entertainment and sponsored by Corona. The Algieri vs. Bone and Rosinksy vs. Smith Jr. fights are promoted in association with Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.

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, @ChrisAlgieri, @LouDiBella, @BarclaysCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.Facebook.com/SHOSports, www.Facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.Facebook.com/barclayscenter.

Las Vegas (November 3, 2015)–This Friday night at the Downtown Las Vegas Event Center (DLVEC) across from The D Hotel, five members of the GH3 Promotions stable will be in action, with three being featured in nationally televised fights as part of a ShoBox: The New Generation card. (10 PM ET/PT).

In the main event, undefeated Middleweight,Antoine Douglas (18-0-1, 12 KO’s) will risk his world rankings that stand at number-nine by the WBA, number-fifteen by the IBF and number-11 by the WBO when he takes on Australian Les Sherrington (35-7, 19 KO’s) in a fight for the WBA International and WBO International Middleweight titles. Sherrington is ranked number-twelve by the WBA.

In an 8-round Welterweight bout,Keenan Smith (8-0, 3 KO’s) battles Benjamin Whitaker (10-1, 2 KO’s).

In an 8-round Lightweight fight, O’Shanique Foster (8-0, 5 KO’s) will fight Samuel Teah (6-1, 2 KO’s).

In off-television bouts, Adam Lopez (13-0, 6 KO’s) will take on an opponent to be named in a Featherweight scheduled for 8-rounds.

Cuban amateur star, Hector Frormeta will make his pro debut against Abraham Calderon in a Welterweight bout scheduled for 4-rounds.

“This is a great opportunity for Douglas, Smith and Foster to shine on national television,”said GH3 Promotions Vito Mielnicki.

“Antoine is on the cusp of a major fight and I think the fans will really enjoy seeing the national television debuts of Keenan Smith and O’Shanique Foster. Off-TV we will be showcasing Adam Lopez and Hector Frometa. Adam has had a couple of great fights on ShoBox and we expect him in a big fight in his next outing as he is already ranked number-seven by the WBA. Frometa is our next fighter who we believe will be that a star.”

Tickets are priced at $100.50, $75.50, $40.50, $25.50 and $20.50 and are available for purchase at www.ticketmaster.com

GH3 Promotions will be presenting another strong card on December 11th in at the Parsippany PAL in Parsippany, New Jersey.

Details and bouts will be announced next Monday.

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 Jerrell Harris & Keenan Smith, Light Heavyweight Lavarn Harvell, Jr. Lightweight O’Shanique Foster, Super Middleweight Andrew Hernandez & Welterweight Hector Frometa to the GH3 Promotions stable.

Celtic rivals Liam Williams and Kris Carslaw will clash for the Commonwealth and Vacant British Super-Welterweight titles on Frank Warren’s huge X-Mas Cracker show on Saturday 19th December at the Manchester Arena, live and exclusive on BoxNation.

The fiery Wales-Scotland showdown features on the double world title show on the undercard of the potential thriller between WBO World Middleweight Champion Andy Lee and Billy Joe Saunders and Liam Smith’s WBO World Super-Welterweight title defence.

Clydach Vale puncher Williams, who’s unbeaten in 12 fights with seven knockouts, has his first fight in over year following surgery on his right hand after his first round stoppage of Michael Lomax in November last year to win the Commonwealth title.

Williams, 23, was in devastating form last year with stoppage wins over Yuri Pompilio, Ronnie Heffron, Stepan Horvath and Lomax, and is now raring to get back on his world title trail.

“I’ve been out of the ring for a while so I’m looking forward to making my return and getting my name back up there again,” Said Williams.

“I was on a good run of KO’s against Pompilio, Heffron, Horvath and Lomax so Carslaw will be a good fight back for me and bring the best out. My right hand feels brand new now and I’m punching harder than before with equal confidence in sparring and hitting the bags so I’m not afraid to let it go on the night against Carslaw,”

“He’s a good all-rounder and decent at what he does, but to me he’s not spectacular in anything particular and I believe that my strength and punching power will be too much for him on the night,”

“Just like the rugby, a Wales v Scotland showdown in the boxing ring is bound to be an explosive clash and one that will bring out the best in us. I’m confident that I’ll be coming away the winner and continue on my road to the world title.”

Carslaw, from Paisley, lost in his previous challenge for the British Super-Welterweight title against Brian Rose in June 2012, but says he’s waited long enough for his second shot and won’t put it to waste against Williams.

“I can’t wait to get to Williams and was over the moon when I heard the news I’d be fighting him for his Commonwealth belt and with the Vacant British title also on the line,” Said Carslaw.

“There’s no way I’m letting that British belt slip past me a second time after waiting over three years since the Rose fight, this time I’ll make sure the Lonsdale belt comes back home to Scotland with me.”

“Williams is a good, strong, fighter, he hits hard, but he’s one dimensional. I’ll come up with the game plan to beat him,”

“It’s going to be a massive fight between me and Williams with plenty of national pride on the line, the best man is going to win on the night and that is me.”

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

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TicketMaster
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*Tickets are subject to a booking fee.

The Channel Of Champions, BoxNation, will televise the show 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.

World-renowned ring announcer Jimmy Lennon Jr. rarely swaps the squared circle of the MGM Grand or Madison Square Garden for a Danish ring but when he does you can guarantee it is for something special.

His last appearances were for two of the biggest bouts in Danish boxing history: Mikkel Kessler vs. Carl Froch in Herning as part of the Super Six World Boxing Classic in April 2010, and of course Brian Nielsen’s heavyweight showdown with ‘Iron’ Mike Tyson in Copenhagen in October 2001.

Six years after his last appearance, the man with the iconic ‘Its Show Time!’ catchphrase, returns to the Danish capital on December 12 for the massive ‘Bad Blood’ battle between Patrick Nielsen and Rudy Markussen, a fight being built as the biggest between two Danish fighters in recent memory.

“It’s been a great year for boxing and it’s great to be back calling such an event in Copenhagen,’’ said Lennon Jr. ‘’I know both fighters well and it seems like one of those classic grudge fights with everything at stake. A win for either man can propel them to a World title challenge in 2016. I’m expecting a red-hot atmosphere in a sold out Brondby Hallen on December 12.’’

Lennon Jr., who called the Las Vegas mega-fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio in May, will be flying in to grace the weigh-in on Friday, December 11. Even the man who has witnessed countless events around the world admits this will be an interesting stare-down between Denmark’s two top fighters. ‘’There is a real intensity to this fight and this is something I definitely don’t want to miss,’’ says the Californian.

Limited tickets for Bad Blood: Patrick Nielsen vs. Rudy Markussen are available online via billetlugen.dk or by calling (+45) 75 263 267. The fight will be shown live and exclusive on Pay-Per-View in Denmark on Viasat and Viaplay. More information on how to access the fight will be released shortly.

LONDON (3 NOVEMBER) British middleweight champion Nick Blackwell says regular sparring sessions with IBF world super-middleweight champion James DeGale have more than prepared him for his November 14 title defence against Elliott Matthews and that there’s nothing the unbeaten challenger can show him in Bristol that he won’t have seen before.

Blackwell meets Matthews, his third southpaw opponent on the trot, at the City Academy, but spars with DeGale, a world-class southpaw, have left him feeling buoyant about the task ahead.

“DeGale is one of the best lads I’ve ever been in the ring with,” said Blackwell. “He’s fast, he’s got a good boxing brain and he’s always fit. He also hits incredibly hard as well – a lot harder than people give him credit for.

“When I first sparred him, I went in there and thought, I’ll just walk through him and bully him about a bit. But it wasn’t that easy. I couldn’t get over how hard he hit. He was really snappy with his shots.

“I’m sparring both DeGale and Jake Ball, a light-heavyweight southpaw. Jake’s also a very good fighter with a top amateur background. You’ve got to be on your game and 100% focused when you spar guys like this. They’re top calibre.”

In contrast to DeGale, Blackwell’s next challenger, Elliott Matthews, is unbeaten in sixteen professional fights and has yet to really test himself at top domestic level. By Blackwell’s way of thinking, if he can deal with a world champion like DeGale in sparring, he should have few problems with Matthews come November 14.

“Elliott Matthews is a good fighter, but he hasn’t got anything on James DeGale,” said Blackwell. “If I can hang with DeGale and have success against DeGale, I should be ok with Matthews.

“It’s great sparring for a fight like this. You can’t really get better southpaw sparring in this country than James DeGale. Not only is he a southpaw, he’s also a super-middleweight, so naturally bigger than I am.

“If I was fighting the best in the world, you’d still consider DeGale and Ball to be top-level sparring. You couldn’t ask for better. But to have this kind of world-class sparring before a British title fight is priceless.”

*** For tickets to BANG BANG: The Knockout Kings, please contact the Ticketline Box Office on 0844 888 4402, the Sanigar Events Box Office on 0117 949 6699 or visit www.hennessysports.com ***

*** Blackwell vs. Matthews will be televised live and exclusively on Channel 5 from 10pm, Saturday, November 14. Meanwhile, Hughie Lewis Fury, Craig Kennedy and a pick of the Bristol undercard will be televised earlier in the evening on Spike ***

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LAS VEGAS, NV. (November 2, 2015) — Two-time Ukrainian Olympic gold medalist and reigning World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight world champion VASYL LOMACHENKO (4-1, 2 KOs) kicked off Fight Week today with a training camp Media Workout at the Robert Garcia Boxing Academy in Oxnard, Calif. Lomachenko will defend his title on Saturday night against WBO No. 7 world-rated contender ROMULO KOASICHA (24-4,14 KOs), of San Luis Potosi, Mexico.

Lomachenko vs. Koasicha will be the co-main event to the 12-round welterweight rumble between two-division world champion TIMOTHY “Desert Storm” BRADLEY JR., (32-1-1, 12 KOs), of Palm Springs, Calif., in his second reign as World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight champion, and former world champion BRANDON “Bam Bam” RIOS (33-2-1, 23 KOs), of Oxnard, Calif. Bradley and Rios fought in Fights of the Year in 2013 and 2012, respectively.Here is what Lomachenko and his manager Egis Klimas had to say:

VASYL LOMACHENKO, WBO Featherweight World Champion

“I want to bring something new to boxing. I want to be known to fans and appreciated as a ‘boxer-painter’ in regards to speed, footwork, punching power — an art form inside the ring. I have looked at videos of many great champions like Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Robinson and Joe Frazier who each had special qualities. I never say one particular fighter is the best ever because each has a special unique style of fighting.

“Every fight has challenges. I looked at some video of my opponent who fought Lee Selby. In the middle of that fight my opponent did a transition and fought with a different type of style against Selby. These are the situations you must deal with on the night of a fight.

“Who would I like to fight some day? Getting Salido back into the ring would be something I would like to see.”

EGIS KLIMAS, Lomachenko Manager

“We have not seen the best of Vasyl Lomachenko, maybe something like 40 percent of what we are going to see. He pushes himself 120 percent. He likes to spar 15 rounds daily against four different opponents. No one trains harder. He proved he was the best amateur boxer and he will prove that he is the best professional fighter.”

**************************

Promoted by Top Rank®, in association with the Wynn Las Vegas and Tecate, the Bradley vs. Rios / Lomachenko vs. Koasicha world championship event will take place This Saturday! November 7, at the Thomas & Mack Center on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Both fights will be televised live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT. Remaining tickets, priced at $400, $250, $150, $100 and $50, may be purchased at the Thomas & Mack Center Box Office, online at http://www.unlvtickets.com/, at UNLVtickets Outlet Town Square Las Vegas and La Bonita Supermarkets. To charge by phone call 702-739-FANS (3267) or 866-388-FANS (3267).

For fight updates go to www.toprank.com or www.hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/trboxing, facebook.com/trboxeo, or facebook.com/hboboxing, and on Twitter at twitter.com/trboxing, twitter.com/trboxeo or twitter.com/hboboxing. Use the hashtag #BradleyRios #Lomachenko to join the conversation on Twitter.

LAS VEGAS (November 02, 2015) – As he nears his Saturday, Nov. 14 showdown against WBC Featherweight World Champion Gary Russell Jr. (26-1, 15 KOs), featherweight contender Oscar Escandón (24-2, 16 KOs) is primed and ready for the challenge. The 12-round SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® main-event will be televised live on SHOWTIME (10:45 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast), from Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The co-main event of the evening will see undefeated super welterweights Frank “Notorious” Galarza (17-0-2, 11 KOs) and Jarrett “Swift” Hurd (16-0, 10 KOs) in a 10-round clash.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions, are priced at $155, $105, $80, $55 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets may be purchased at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino box office, by calling 888-9-AXS-TIX, or online at www.axs.com.

Less than one month after Russell Jr. and Escandon square off, SHOWTIME Sports® will present another high-profile matchup between elite 126-pound fighters as WBA Featherweight World Champion Jesus Cuellar defends against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo on Dec. 5 from Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

While working out in Las Vegas with Coach Ruben Guerrero, Escandón gave his thoughts on training camp, fighting Gary Russell Jr., and his quest to become a world champion.

On his matchup with Gary Russell Jr.:

“Gary Russell Jr. is a very skilled fighter but he doesn’t know what it’s like to be in a rugged fight. Everyone knows I come to fight and Russell is going to find out firsthand what it’s like to be in a war. He better be ready to take some lumps.”

On training in Las Vegas:

“Running in the high elevation here in Las Vegas has been great for my stamina. I’ve adjusted to the atmosphere and my body feels extremely strong. I’ve gotten some great sparring with a lot of different looks, guys that move like Russell. I couldn’t be more prepared then I’ll be for this fight.”

On working with Ruben Guerrero:

“Ruben and I have been working great together. His knowledge of fighting southpaws is excellent and we have a great game plan going into this fight. Everyone can expect to see me throw a lot of punches.”

On his quest to become a world champion:

“Becoming a world champion is something I’ve wanted my whole life. I’ve been close a couple of times. In those fights I made the mistake of leaving the decision in the judges’ hands. This time around, I’m going for the knockout, to assure myself victory.”

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @SHOSports, @MrGaryRussellJr, @TGBPromotions, @HardRockHotelLV and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports.

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LOS ANGELES (Nov. 2, 2015) Olympic gold medalist and 10-time world champion in six weight divisions Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, presented new-state-of-the-art boxing equipment valued at thousands of dollars to the youth of Grampa’s Boxing Gym on Friday, Oct. 30, to encourage the youth to continue in their training and lead positive lives away from gang activity and violence.

Also at the giveaway, De La Hoya honored California Municipal Finance Authority as the 2015 Corporate Partner of the Year for his namesake foundation in recognition of their commitment to serving youth in Southern California.

“One of our goals is to invest in the youth of the community so we are happy to contribute and support the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation in its mission and participate by acting locally,” said Bob Adams, board member for the California Municipal Finance Authority. “The best way to make our communities stronger is to invest in the youth and their future.”

This was the third annual boxing equipment giveaway the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation has hosted for after-school youth programs. The Foundation, with the support of its corporate partner of the year California Municipal Finance Authority and Everlast, is donating new, state-of-the-art boxing equipment to five gyms in Southern California that serve youth in economically disadvantaged communities plagued by gang and drug violence. The equipment will help these local gyms to provide youth in their communities with an opportunity to engage in boxing as an after-school program alternative to gang activities. Recipients of the Foundation’s boxing equipment donations this giving season include Southern California-based boxing gyms Grampa’s Boxing Gym in Westminster, Azusa Boxing Gym in Azusa, Westside Boxing Club in Los Angeles, Azteca Boxing Club in Bell and Lugo Fitness Center in Cudahy.

In 1995, De La Hoya started his namesake Foundation to help improve the quality of life for those living in disadvantaged communities. The Oscar De La Hoya Foundation supports the Oscar De La Hoya Animo Charter High School, the Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Center and the Oscar De La Hoya Labor and Delivery Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (both located at White Memorial Hospital in Los Angeles) as well as numerous after-school programs that help guide young people toward leading positive lives and away from the circumstances of gang violence, juvenile delinquency, and substance abuse.

Training is underway for Arthur Abraham (43-4, 29 KOs) as he prepares for his WBO World Super Middleweight Championship contest with Britain’s Martin Murray (32-2-1, 15 KOs) on November 21 at the TUI Arena in Hannover, Germany.

As the Berlin-boxer readies himself for a fifth successive defence of his WBO strap, the former 160 lbs ‘King’ turned super middleweight supremo has been bolstered by the return of his long-standing coach and mentor Ulli Wegner who had been sidelined with an Achilles injury.

‘’It’s great to have Mr. Wegner back,’’ exclaims Abraham. ‘’We had been talking everyday on the phone and discussing my progress but there is no substitute to having him there in person giving me direct feedback. I rely on his input and with him in my corner there is no way I can lose.’’

The ever-critical Wegner has already set about changing the 35 year-old’s training regime. Removing any distractions by taking his protégé from the bustling Max-Schmeling-Gym in Berlin to a secluded training camp in Kienbaum’s Olympic Centre.

‘’Arthur must focus all his energy and attention on this fight or risk losing his World title,’’ said the star coach. ‘’And that is why we need to complete isolation. My job is to ensure he is in top championship condition, and currently his fitness is not where I would like it to be. Now, he must step up his efforts or prepare for defeat.’’

Abraham, used to the 73 year-old’s exacting standards, offers a simple reply when faced with his coach’s criticism, admitting: ‘’Mr Wegner is always right!’’

The WBO World Super Middleweight Championship fight between Arthur Abraham and Martin Murray will be broadcast live on Sat.1 in Germany and Sky Sports in the UK. Tickets are available online via tickethall.de and eventim.de.

Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg will meet for the IBF and WBA World Super-Bantamweight titles at the Manchester Arena on Saturday February 27 2016.

The eagerly anticipated showdown between the British rivals was announced live on Sky Sports News this afternoon with the pair putting titles, unbeaten records and bragging rights on the line in the blockbuster.

Belfast favourite Frampton took the IBF crown from Kiko Martinez last September and has defended the title twice this year, stopping Chris Avalos in Belfast in February before an exciting debut on US soil in May where he climbed off the canvas twice in the opening round to defeat Alejandro Gonzalez Jr.

Bury ace Quigg’s reign as WBA champion began in October 2013 and the 27 year old has racked up five successful defences in that time, stopping Martinez in his last outing in Manchester in July to follow wins over Diego Silva, Tshifhiwa Munyai, Stephane Jamoye and Hidenori Otake.

Both fighters and their promoters expressed their delight at setting up what promises to be the fight of the year.

“I’m delighted that we have finally got this fight signed,” said Frampton. “This is the fight everyone has wanted for years, none more so than myself. I’m the legitimate champion and I’m going to his backyard to defend my title because that’s what champions do. On February 27 the fans will find out who the real champion is, I’m going to win this fight in style.”

“I’ve finally got the fight I’ve wanted for so long,” said Quigg. “February 27 will be the best night of my life. I’ve dedicated my life to this sport and I have never been more confident going into a fight, I know I will beat him in every department. This is a great fight for the sport and I’m delighted to bring it to Manchester and unify the division.”

“I am very pleased that we have managed to get this fight made,” said Frampton’s manager Barry McGuigan. “It will be a momentous occasion for British and Irish boxing. This is the fight the fans have craved and the one we have wanted all along. The atmosphere will no doubt be electric, but there is only going to be one winner on February 27, Carl ‘The Jackal’ Frampton!”

“Yes! All I can say is yes – get in!” said Quigg’s promoter Eddie Hearn. “This is been hard work but worth every second. I want to thank everyone involved for their desire in making this fight happen and now we have an event that will go down in the history of the sport. Two World champions, two fantastic fighters collide at the Manchester Arena. Can you even imagine the atmosphere, the tension, the drama? This is what it’s all about, roll on fight night! Scott Quigg has all the momentum going into the fight and will be crowned unified World champion on February 27.”

Information on ticket on-sale dates and the undercard will be revealed in a UK press tour that will begin later in November.

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (Nov 2, 2015) – World rated prospect Nikolay Potapov 14-0 of Padolsk Russia made an impressive US debut as he controlled every minute of the bout against the experienced Pedro Malo of Mexico 13-10.

The bout took place last Thursday as part of the latest installment of Salita Promotions Brooklyn Brawl series at the Aviator Sports Complex in Brooklyn.

Potapov hurt Melo on several occasions but the experienced Melo used his experience to survive in the 10 round contest as all score cards had it 100-90 for Potapov across the board. ” Fighting in NYC was a great experience . I am grateful to all the fans that came out the media that showed me support and to my promoters PBL and Salita Promotions who did an outstanding job in introducing me to the US boxing community ”

Every bout featured high-volume trading, and fans were treated to a solid rumble in the main event. Physical marvel Alicia Ashley used deft footwork, crisp combos and superior ring generalship to take UD10 win over Ireland’s Christina McMahon. For her effort, the Jamaican-born Brooklyn resident, 48 years young, not only picks up the WBC super bantamweight world title, but she will get her entry in the Guinness Book of World Records refreshed, as the oldest female to hold a world title in the boxing sphere.

“History was made on “Brooklyn Brawl,” in a very entertaining fight for WBC title with Ashley (23-10-1) and McMahon (7-1),” said promoter Salita.

Other standouts included Brooklyn welterweight Mikkel Lespierre, who had a strong test in front of him, in Philly’s Evincci Dixon. “Slikk Mikk” is a sharp-shooting lefty who went to 11-0-1 with a UD4.

Welterweight Giorgi Gelashvilli (3-0; living in Brooklyn) dominated Rashad Bogar UD4), from New Jersey;

Puerto Rican Emilio Salas (4-1-1), a cruiserweight, pot-shotted in-your-face Eric George, and the ref saw enough, calling a TKO in round four.

Bakhtiyar Eyubov, an all-action junior middleweight, scored a TKO1 win over Antonio Fernandes from Massachusetts, when he hit him to the body. Fernandes said it was low, and told the ref he couldn’t continue.

“I was pleased with the effort from all the boxers,” said Salita. “We encourage boxing fans to attend our live events, the atmosphere was last night and always is amazing!”