According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, two-division world champion Timothy Bradley has split with longtime trainer Joel Diaz.

“After his last fight, I have not heard from Tim at all. He never answered my calls or anything,” Diaz said. “Then last week, he came to the gym. He said he wanted to talk to me. I said, ‘What’s going on?’ What he said was his manager had other plans and I am not part of those plans. He tried to make some excuses, like I was doing something wrong. I said, ‘I’ve known you for a long time, you’re like my brother, but right now it’s out of your control. Your wife took over your career.’

“He said he would think about it. When they were negotiating the [Brandon] Rios fight, I was calling him to see what was going on. I had to go around him and call his father so his father can contact him because I don’t even think he had a phone no more. I sensed something was going on. His wife got so involved. She didn’t want me involved in the camp.”

“He told me the last few fights things were not the same,” Diaz said. “He was upset because I would leave camp for a day or two sometimes to be with my other fighters at fights. That is my job, but I always put Tim first. I said, ‘Tim, that’s not you talking. It’s people in your ear who you live with. If we’re going to work together let me know.’ He said he would think about it, and two days later [on Sunday], he called and left a message and said he would move on and he would find another trainer.

“I couldn’t even call him. I had to go through Monica. It became an issue of his manager taking over everything. She wanted to have control and power over everything. Look, Timothy is a great guy. He has a big heart, but he has people putting things in his head. I trained this kid his whole career. Monica was really cool at first, but the switch came when she became the manager. She’d come to the gym and try to control the training. I was feeling uncomfortable. It was weird. I never had a problem with Monica, never had an argument with her.”

“I told him when he came to the gym [last week], ‘The problem is not you. I know you from the heart. You are overpowered. You gave somebody too much authority of your life,'” Diaz said. “And I said, ‘Good luck, champ.’ Even if I’m not with him I will be at his next fight and I will root for him. I have no hard feelings, but I’m going to move on.”

“It’s my call. Ain’t nobody make me do anything,” Bradley said. “I did it because I felt it needed to be done. A real man wouldn’t even blame a woman or my wife. My wife didn’t speak to Joel. I spoke to Joel. I told him what was going on.

“At the end of the day, I don’t trust him. What’s the point of being with him if you don’t trust him? If there’s no trust, then there’s no relationship.”

“Go back to the Jessie Vargas fight and go see if Joel Diaz is in the ring with me at the end of the fight,” Bradley said. “He left. Right before they announced me as winner, he just left me. He didn’t stick around for me. When we had the conversation, I asked him about it. ‘Dude, you showed me you don’t even care about me.’ The answer was he was pissed off about something else somebody did on the team and decided to leave the ring.

“I was like, ‘We’ve been together for like 10 years and you’re going to just walk away? Stand by me, bro. If it’s so easy for you to leave me like that, then it’s easy to leave anytime.’ I questioned if he cared for me.”

“He blamed my wife, but I’ve been thinking about this since the fight. I’m a loyal guy, but I kept a lot of things in and I accepted a lot of things, but after so long being Mr. Nice Guy, I had to do this because some things were bothering me.”

“I give the OK on everything,” Bradley said. “My wife is there to protect me, but it’s my decision. I make the decisions because I have to live the decisions. I don’t like that he blamed my wife.”

“I’m gonna talk to my wife and see when can we get them out to work with me,” Bradley said of them coming to his hometown of Palm Springs, California. “I’ll be fighting end of the year and I need to get someone in here.”

“Good things come to an end. It’s not a bad thing,” Bradley said. “I’m looking for change. A lot of guys change trainers. It’s nothing bad about Joel. Sometimes you just need a change. We won five world championships together. I would love to remain friends. Don’t want to make this ugly. It’s just business. I really like the guy a lot.”

Las Vegas (Sept. 2, 2015) – Hall of Famers Ray Mancini and Mike McCallum, as well as former WBA Champion Jessie Vargas has confirmed that they will appear at the Title Boxing/Rival booth, at the Las Vegas Convention Center for the second annual Box Fan Expo that will take place Saturday Sept. 12, 2015
. The Boxing Expo will coincide with the Floyd Mayweather vs. Andre Berto championship fight, which will take place later that evening, and Mexican Independence weekend.

Tickets to the Box Fan Expo are available online at: http://www.boxfanexpo.eventbrite.com

Mancini, McCallum and Vargas join: Roberto Duran, Tim Bradley, Zab Judah, James Toney, Sergio Martinez, Mia St. John, Terry Norris, Joel Casamayor, Fernando Vargas, Ruslan Provodnikov, Wayne McCullough, Austin Trout, Demarcus Corley, Rances Barthelemy, Jorge Linares, Kevin Kelley, referee Richard Steele, the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame, the World Boxing Council (WBC) and the World Boxing Association (WBA) among early commitments to this year’s Box Fan Expo.

This unique fan experience event, which allowed fans to meet and greet boxing legends, past and current champions and other celebrities of the sport, debuted last September. This year the Expo will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and once again, allow fans a chance to collect autographs, take photos and purchase merchandise and memorabilia.

Exhibitors such as boxing gear, apparel, broadcasting media and other brand companies who wish to participate will have a chance to showcase their products to fans and the whole boxing industry.

Last year’s inaugural Box Fan Expo featured some of the most popular fighters and boxing celebrities in recent history. Fans were treated to visits with Mike Tyson, Roy Jones Jr, Martinez, Amir Khan, Zab Judah, Mikey Garcia,Toney, Riddick Bowe, Leon Spinks Terry Norris, Porter, Chris Byrd, Jesse James Leija ,Lamon Brewster, Ray Mercer, Earnie Shavers, St-John, Erislandy Lara, Quillin, Jean Pascal and Austin Trout. Also appearing were current WBC Champion Deontay Wilder, the charismatic Vinny Pazienza, Paul Williams, noted commentator Al Bernstein and trainer Roger Mayweather of Mayweather Promotions.

The roster of attendees for this year’s Box Fan Expo will be announced throughout the next several weeks leading up to the event.

For anyone in the boxing industry or brand companies who wish to be involved and reserve a booth as an exhibitor or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Box Fan Expo at:

U.S.A telephone number: (702) 997-1927 or (514) 572-7222

For any inquiries please email: boxfanexpo@gmail.com

More information on the Box Fan Expo is available at: http://www.boxfanexpo.com

View the official promo video of Box Fan Expo here: http://www.boxfanexpo.com/video-2/

You can follow Box Fan Expo on Twitter at: https://www.twitter.com/BoxFanExpo and on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/BoxFanExpo

LOS ANGELES (Sept. 2, 2015) – Former world title contender Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta (28-1-2, 16 KOs) of San Diego, Calif. and top lightweight contender Marcelino “Nino” Lopez (31-1-1, 16 KOs) of Buenos Aires, Argentina have been added to an explosive night of boxing on the non-televised undercard of Lucas Matthysse vs. Viktor Postol on Oct. 3 at the StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. Gesta will face three-time world title challenger Martin “El Brochas” Honorio (32-9-1, 16 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico, in a classic Philippines vs. Mexico 10-round lightweight bout while Lopez will make his U.S. debut in an eight-round lightweight bout against an opponent yet-to-be-named.

In addition, East Los Angeles legacy, Julian “El Camarón” Ramirez (14-0, 8 KOs) will look to keep his undefeated record intact when he faces Mexican contender Hugo “Olímpico” Partida (20-5-2, 15 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight bout and Los Angeles local sensation Nick Arce (4-0, 4 KOs) is scheduled to fight in a six-round featherweight bout. Also, the non-televised undercard will feature east coast undefeated fighters D’Mitrius Ballard (9-0, 7 KOs) of Washington, D.C. in an eight-round light heavyweight battle and Kevin Rivers (12-0, 9 KOs) of Cheverly, Maryland in a six-round super featherweight fight. Opponents will be announced shortly.

In the main event of the night Lucas “La Máquina” Matthysse (37-3, 34 KOs) will face the undefeated Viktor “The Iceman” Postol (27-0, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBC Super Lightweight World Championship televised live on HBO Boxing After Dark beginning at 10:15 p.m. ET/PT. Matthysse vs. Postol is presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Box Promotions, Top Rank, Inc. and ELITE Boxing Promotion. The televised co-main event of the night will feature former three-division world champion Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto (65-8-2, 35 KOs) of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico taking on undefeated contender Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (22-0, 15 KOs) of San Diego, Calif. in a 10-round super lightweight fight.

A proud native of Mandaue City, Cebu, Philippines, Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta has become a fan favorite not just at home but also in his adopted city of San Diego, California where he lives and trains. Given his action-packed fighting style, it’s no surprise that Gesta has been adopted as a hometown favorite by San Diegans. A 12-year professional, Gesta fell short of victory in his first shot at a world title in the lightweight category against then IBF Lightweight World Champion Miguel “Titere” Vazquez in 2012. Since returning to the ring as a super lightweight in 2014, the 27-year-old Gesta has looked better than ever in stopping Edgar Riovalle and Luis “Vampiro” Arceo. Most recently, Gesta fought world title contender Carlos Molina in April delivering an exciting and evenly matched event resulting in a draw. Now Gesta, is hungry for victory and ready to prove his ring superiority on Oct. 3.

Former three-time world title challenger Martin “El Brochas” Honoriois a tough fighter eager to get back in the ring and prove he is still in the running for world title contention. With a victory over the popular John Molina Jr. and having faced tough contenders like Juan Carlos Salgado, Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero and Antonio “Relentless” Orozco; and former owner of the NABF and WBO NABO lightweight titles and contender for the IBF Featherweight Title, Honorio is ready to upset former world title contender Mercito Gesta on Oct. 3.

A 29-year old native resident of Arribenos, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Marcelino “Nino” Lopez made his professional debut in December 2006 with a win. His winning streak continued from there, lasting seven years until it ended by draw against Sergio Javier Escobar in May 2013 in Lopez’s sixth WBC Latino Lightweight Title defense. Since then, Lopez has added a title victory to his resume as the South American Super Lightweight Champion.

The undefeated East Los Angeles native, Julian “El Camarón” Ramirez, has boxing in his blood. His late uncle was the former WBA and WBC Super Featherweight World Champion Genaro “El Chicanito” Hernandez. Ramirez has been on the fast track since turning professional in 2012. A dynamic southpaw who has the skills to succeed, the 22 year-old Ramirez will fight for the second time in 2015 on October 3 after a thrilling main event showdown headlining the April 2 LA FIGHT CLUB card where he added another victory to his resume with a unanimous decision win over the vicious Raul Hidalgo.

Hailing out of Mexico City, Mexico, Hugo “Olímpico” Partida is seasoned fighter ready to add a victory to his record in his first scheduled fight of 2015. A professional since 2005, Partida has fought for the regional IBF Inter-Continental Super Bantamweight title, the WBC Continental Americans Super Bantamweight title, the WBC Youth World Featherweight Title and has retained and defended the WBC Fecarbox Super Bantamweight title. Looking to take his career to the next level, Partida is ready to face the undefeated Julian Ramirez on Oct. 3.

Fighting out of the Westside Boxing Club in Los Angeles, 19-year-old featherweight Nick Arce is a former amateur standout who entered the professional boxing world in style in November of 2014 with a fourth round knockout of Adalbert Valenzuela. Since then the Los Angeles favorite has fought three times in 2015, never letting his opponent get past the second round. Most recently, Arce impressed fans with a second-round knockout over Ricardo Alvarado on the undercard of Herrera vs. Lundy on July 11 in Los Angeles.

A decorated amateur star, the professional run of D’Mitrius Ballard thus far has been nothing short of spectacular. Just 22 years old, Ballard has shown power, speed and ring generalship all while exciting fans from New York to Texas to his home of Washington, D.C. Coming off a 70- second knockout of Jason Zabokrtsky in March and unanimous decision victory over Josue Ovando in June, Ballard is chasing after more spectacular finishes this year.

Undefeated since his professional debut in 2012, Kevin “K-Smoove” Rivers, Jr. of Cheverly, Maryland is eager to get back in the ring after an impressive technical knockout victories over Stephon McIntyre and Luis Ruiz Lizarraga Jr. earlier this year. The fighter has been steadily moving up the ranks accumulating wins over other stand-out prospects, Xavier Montelongo and Karl Garcia in 2014. Now the 24-year-old fighter is ready to continue his winning streak in his third fight of 2015.

Tickets for Matthysse vs. Postol are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at StubHub Center Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

Matthysse vs. Postol is a 12-round bout for the vacant WBC World Super Lightweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Box Promotions, Top Rank, Inc. and ELITE Boxing Promotion and is sponsored by Corona and Mexico – Live it To Believe It!. Doors open at 2:00 p.m. on Oct. 3 and fight times will be announced soon.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.elitboxclub.com, www.toprank.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.stubhubcenter.com; follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @TRBoxing, @HBOBoxing, @StubHubCenter, @MatthysseLucas, @ViktorPostol, @PuroOrozco; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TRBoxing, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and www.facebook.com/StubHubCenter; and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @HBOBoxing. Follow the conversation using #MatthyssePostol.

SAN ANTONIO, TX (September 2, 2015) – Super-Featherweight prodigy, Mario Barrios (10-0, 5 KOs), has a new opponent for his upcoming bout this Sunday, September 6, 2015 at the American Bank Center, in Corpus Christi, Texas. Barrios who was slated to face Jonathan “Popeye” Perez, will now face Jose Cen Torres (13-8, 1 KO) in an 8-round bout. Barrios speaks on his new opponent.

“Late substitutions are part of boxing,” said Barrios. “That’s why you must be prepared for any style. Nothing has changed as far as what I’m going to do in the ring. Our game plan is set and we will be ready for anything Torres brings to the ring. I’m just excited to be fighting in Texas once again. I’m looking forward to fighting in front of the fans who will be there to support me. Texas boxing fans are great!”

The event is headlined by former world champion Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (27-1-1, 22 KOs) taking on Mexico’s Marco Antonio “El Veneno” Rubio (59-7-1, 51 KOs) and features the rematch between bantamweight world champion Jamie McDonnell (26-2-1, 12 KOs) and exciting brawler Tomoki “El Mexicanito” Kameda (31-1, 19 KOs). Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on CBS will air the event live from the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas Sunday, September 6. The telecast kicks off at 4 PM ET/1 PM PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are priced at $109, $93, $49, $38 and $15, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com, the American Bank Center Box Office or by calling Leija Battah Promotions at (210) 979-3302. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000

Sept. 2….Bronx, NY Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing presents another installment of the popular “Rockin’ Fights” series Friday, September 11th, at The Paramount in Huntington, NY.

Headlining once again will be the hard hitting, hard charging, Joe “The Irish Bomber” Smith Jr. (18-1 15KO’s), Mastic, NY taking on veteran spoiler Dion Savage, (12-7 6KO’s), Flint, MI in a scheduled 10 round Light Heavyweight matchup.

Smith, who returns to The Paramount, is coming off a thrilling 2nd round destruction of Cory Cummings on April 18th that had the sellout crowd in a frenzy as both fighters traded bombs from the opening bell. Smith eventually got to Cummings dropping him 3 times en route to the stoppage win. Smith, a member of Local 66 Laborers Union, has developed a huge fan base since making The Paramount his home base. He is trained and managed by Jerry and Phil Capobianco and faces his most experienced opponent in Dion Savage.

Savage, who hails from Flint, MI, has fought some of the top fighters in the world including current Light Heavyweight champion Adonis Stevenson, as well as top prospects Jesse Hart, Ronald Gavril, and Will Rosinsky. Savage is a crowd pleaser like Smith and has been training very hard for this opportunity and promises to upset the hometown favorite.

Promoter Joe DeGuardia had this to say about “Rockin’ Fights 20” main event, “I’m very excited to once again feature Joe Smith Jr. at The Paramount on September 11th. Joe is quickly becoming one of the most exciting fighters in the world and a must see attraction. I know Joe and Dion will put up the kind of fight our loyal fans at The Paramount have come accustomed to seeing”.

Featured on the undercard in an 8 round bout will be Hicksville Jr. Welterweight Anthony Karperis taking on rugged Mexican warrior Jose Morales. Huntington Featherweight Johnny Hernandez looks to rebound from his first defeat as he battles Mexico’s Hilario Medina in a 6 round fight, New Hyde Park Jr. Middleweight Rich Neves returns to The Paramount taking on Brooklyn’s Courtney Pennington in a 6 round matchup, and rounding out the card will be the first Female fight ever at The Paramount featuring Brooklyn’s Ronica Jeffrey going up against Mexico’s Celene Roman in a 6 round Jr. Lightweight fight.

Tickets are available but going fast as another sellout is expected. If you want to purchase tickets you can do so by calling Star Boxing, 718 823-2000, or visit www.starboxing.com, The Paramount box office 631 673-7300, or TICKETMASTER at ticketmaster.com, or by calling 1 (800) 745-3000. Tickets are priced at $50.00 and up.

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (Sept. 2, 2015) – Boxing came back to Coney Island last Tuesday night, and by all accounts, it was a smashing success.

Boxing champion-turned-promoter Dmitriy Salita put together a 10-bout Brooklyn Brawl card, and fans assembled at the Brooklyn Cyclones’ MCU Park were blown away by the shocker ending to the main event.

Veteran Cornelius “Lightning” Lock of Flatbush, Brooklyn, found a home for a nasty left hand, and finished off favorite Alex Miskirtchian in round three of their scheduled ten. Pro boxing came to Coney Island for the first time in 14 years, and didn’t disappoint with a win for the local fighter, who trains at the famed Gleason’s Gym in the County of Kings.

Other winners included Junior Wright, the cruiserweight contender from Chicago aiming at another world title shot; Dimash Niyazov, the NYPD officer moonlighting as a pro hitter; “Trigger” Treysean Wiggins, the fighting pride of Newburgh, N.Y., opening eyes as a solid prospect to watch.

A national, live viewing audience was able to scan the fistic fury as ESPN3 carried three and a half hours of the Brooklyn Brawl, with blow-by-blow man Michael Woods and analyst Brian Adams on the call for Boxing at the Beach. The event will also run on MSG Networks during the month of Sept.; fans can check local listings for the latest broadcast schedule.

“The main event was a very competitive fight and there was an explosive ending,” said Salita, who was blessed with beautiful night, in addition to a bevy of compelling bouts. “Lock scored an upset over a world-ranked, world-class featherweight in Alex Miskirtchian. I believed before the fight that the winner of that one deserves an opportunity at a world title. So, Cornelius Lock put it all together and with such a performance shows he is a threat to all the big names in the division.”

Lock was busy and effective and proved that his left hand puts all future foes on notice. The 36-year-old veteran (23-7-2, 15 KOs), said, “It was a good win against a good fighter rated No. 10 by the IBF. I really took this fight seriously. I had to make a statement that I’m not done, that I still have a lot left. So I knew I had to fight smart, and that’s what I did, use my experience.”

In addition, fans at the ballpark were impressed with the skills of two-time Irish Olympian John Joe Nevin, who scored a stoppage win over Victor Capaceta. Heavy hitter Bahktiyar Eyubov went to 8-0 with 8 KOs, powering past Cory Vom Baur. Brighton Beach brawler Giorgi Gelashvili had the crowd stunned when he overwhelmed DeLoren Gray-Jordon with a lightning-fast salvo of blows in round two, and the colorful “Brooklyn Buddah” Gary Beriguette showed effective aggression in scoring a decision victory over Anton Williamson. Rounding out the card, FDNY firefighter Jose De La Rosa got the W over Kamal Muhammad, and heavyweight Emilio Salas opened things up with a second round TKO at the expense of Glenn Thomas.

Respected former fighter Adams touched on the event from his broadcast position. “I truly believe the card Salita put on was great for the sport,” he said. “There isn’t a great deal of room for local promoters to blossom, but the promotion Salita held was at a world-class level!”

Blow-by-blow man Woods, who is editor of TheSweetScience.com and a contributor for RING, weighed in, saying “We were all pleased and honored to showcase these fights on ESPN3. The stoppage win by Lock was a fitting ending and thriller of a finish, for the entertainment and thrill-seeking destination that is Coney Island!

“I am grateful to ESPN that the fighters on the show had the chance to be seen nationally. I couldn’t have asked for a better evening of boxing in such a stunning venue. Our next show will be Oct. 24 and we are always looking to improve and bring a tremendous level of excitement to the fans,” said Salita, summing up the exciting Boxing At The Beach event.

Brooklyn Brawl Makes Charitable Contributions

When some of the toughest brawlers in the Borough of Brooklyn brandished black and pink gloves last Tuesday, it wasn’t because they were making a fashion statement. The boxers joined their brethren from the NFL, Major League Baseball and the NBA in generating awareness for breast cancer, and the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” campaign.

The affiliation was announced at the public Brooklyn Brawl weigh-in at MCU Park, as the Brooklyn Brawl and Brooklyn Cyclones donated 50 tickets to cancer charities in Midtown Manhattan, reaching families who have members undergoing cancer treatment in New York City.

Additionally, throughout last Tuesday evening’s event, boxing fans at MCU Park and those watching the live broadcast on ESPN3 were presented with facts about breast cancer and the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer program. Cancer awareness programs are of distinct importance to Brooklyn Brawl promoter Dmitriy Salita.

Said Salita, “I lost my mother to breast cancer when I was 16-years-old. Boxing was a tremendous resource for me, it gave me an outlet and something to lean on. Now we can use boxing as a tool to raise awareness and support for those battling this terrible disease. This very important cause is closest to my heart.”

In addition to the Brooklyn Brawl’s charitable partnership with cancer charities, the Brooklyn Brawl and Brooklyn Cyclones donated 200 Boxing At The Beach tickets to the NYPD and FDNY Widows and Orphans Foundations, and local precincts and fire stations.

“With a Brooklyn police officer and a FDNY firefighter on the boxing card, it was fitting that we gave a special salute to our everyday heroes and families by inviting them to our Brooklyn Brawl event,” said Steve Cohen, Vice President of the Brooklyn Cyclones. “Our organization always looks for ways to thank the men and women who serve our great city.”

About Brooklyn Brawl
Brooklyn Brawl is a series of electrifying New York City-based boxing events showcasing the talents and skills of fighters from throughout the city, across the country and around the world. Brooklyn Brawl fighters include veteran boxers working their way toward a world title shot, as well as talented prospects, many of whom have already won prestigious national and international amateur titles, including Golden Gloves championships and others. Young contenders often challenge veteran boxers in exciting crossroad title fights that bring winners one step closer to a world title.

ABOUT STAR OF DAVID PROMOTIONS
Star of David Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature the brightest prospects, as well as seasoned pugilists, in and around the New York City area. Viewers have enjoyed watching Star of David fighters in recent years on Spike TV, ESPN2, MSG, and Universal Sports Network. Please visit www.Salitapromotions.com for more information.

Salita’s stable includes future heavyweight star Jarrell Miller, from Brooklyn; cruiserweight contender Junior Wright, from Chicago; fleet fisted Dimash Niyazov from Staten Island; new signee Bakhtiyar Eyubov, a KO hitter from Kazahkstan, middleweight contender Steven Martinez; Serdar Hudayberdiyev and other rising stars on the Salita roster.

Please log on to www.salitapromotions.com for more information on the Salita fighters and upcoming promotions.

NASHVILLE, TN (September 2, 2015) – Undefeated Middleweight prospect, Caleb “Sweet Hands” Plant (9-0, 8 KOs), makes a speedy return to the ring as he will face an opponent TBA on Tuesday, September 22, 2015 at the Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on Fox Sports 1 will televise the card headlined by Julian Williams vs. Luciano Cuello. Plant will open up the telecast which begins at 9PM ET / 6PM PT live on Fox Sports 1.

With seven first round knockouts to his credit, Plant, a rising star, is rapidly establishing himself as one of the most feared fighters in the middleweight division. He’s currently riding a seven fight knockout streak, having gone the distance only once in his career.

In his last bout, which took place on August 15, 2015, Plant demolished late sup Zoltan Sera (20-6, 12 KOs) by way of a first round knockout. Look for Caleb Plant to continue with an aggressive style when he steps into the ring on Sept, 22.

“Although I have a few first round knockouts, I really like to take my time and pick my shots in my fights,” said Caleb Plant. “Fortunately, I’ve been able to get my opponents hurt early and get them out of there. I’m prepared to go the distance if I have to, but there is no doubt, if I get my opponent hurt, I’m going for the knockout.”

Fighting on television for the first time in his last outing, Plant is relishing on the fact that his fight will be broadcasted live on Fox Sports 1. Managed by Al Haymon, Plant sees a bright future.

“It’s really exciting to know all my fans and family back home will be able to tune in and watch me fight,” Plant continued. “In addition, those who haven’t had a chance to see me in action, will now get their opportunity. When you have a person like Al Haymon in your corner, it’s a very satisfying feeling, because you with hard work opportunities will be there. My goal is to keep working hard and take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. I’m very pleased to be making a quick return to the ring.”

MIAMI, FL (September 2, 2015) – On Tuesday, September 8, 2015 at the Hollywood Palladium in Hollywood, California, undefeated light heavyweight power puncher, Ahmed Elbiali (11-0, 10 KOs) is scheduled to fight on the televised portion of the Premier Boxing Champions on Fox Sports 1 card headlined by Austin Trout (29-2, 16 KOs) vs. Joey Hernandez (24-3-1, 14 KOs). Elbiali will face an Fabiano Pena (12-3-1, 8 KOs) in an 8-round bout. The PBC telecast will begin at 9PM ET / 6PM PT live on Fox Sports 1.

Elbiali, who’s known for having heavy hands, is one of the most exciting fighters in the light heavyweight division. With a 90% knockout ratio, Elbiali is being touted as the next great knockout artist. He’ll look to continue that trend against Pena.

“I’m always looking to end the fight early if I get my opponent hurt,” said Ahmed Elbiali. “A couple of fights ago I went the distance for the first time and I felt good knowing I can fight into the later rounds if need be. I love to let my hands fly and bring exciting fights to the fans. That’s what I try to do in all my fights. On September 8th, I’ll be looking to do the same.”

With Al Haymon guiding the career of Elbiali, sky is the limit.

“Working with Al Haymon has been great for my career.” Elbiali continued. “Fighting on TV once again is bringing great exposure my fighting style, and I’m very appreciative to Haymon for all his hard work. My goal is to become a world champion and be known as one of the most exciting fighters in my division.”

Tickets priced $28.50 – $78.50 not including fees, are on sale in person at the Palladium box office or online at here. Doors open at 5PM PT, with the first televised fights starting at 6PM PT.

Reading, PA (September 2, 2015)– On Thursday night, September 24, King’s Promotions will present a special night of boxing at Reading Fightin Phils First Energy Stadium.

The show will culminate a busy week for King’s Promotions as the company, founded by Marshall Kauffman, will be promoting its’s fourth event in sieven days.

In 6-round Bouts:

Nick Valliere (5-0, 2 KO’s) of Forked River, NJ will take on Maurice Amaro (2-9, 1 KO) of Philadelphia, PA in a Middleweight bout.

Erik Spring (6-0, 1 KO) of Reading, PA battles James Robinson (3-3-2, 1 KO’s) of York, PA in a Super Welterweight bout.

In 4-round bouts:
Eliezer Mendez (1-1) of Reading, PA will fight Jonathan Acosta (0-1) of Lebanon, PA.

Randy Easton (3-7-1, 3 KO’s) of Sunbury, PA will fight pro debuting Corey Morley of Philadelphia, PA.

Santario Martin (0-1) of Gainesville, FL takes on Fitzgerald Johnson (3-7, 1 KO) of Newark, NJ in a Middleweight bout.

More Bouts will be announced shortly

Tickets cost $50 and $25 and be purchased at 610-375-8469 or www.Fightins.com/boxing

AMATEUR star Reuben Arrowsmith will make his eagerly anticipated professional debut at Banks’s Stadium, Walsall on October 10.

Trained by four-time world champion Ricky Hatton, the 19-year-old won five national titles in the vest and head guard and is confident of making his mark in the paid ranks.

He will box an as yet to be confirmed opponent over four rounds on the undercard of a bill topped by popular Stourbridge welterweight Steven “Fierce” Pearce and believes he’ll take to the pros like the proverbial duck to water.

“It’s great to have a date for my debut,” Arrowsmith said. “I’ve not boxed since last October, but I’ve had high quality sparring with really good boxers and it’s just a case of putting everything into practice now.

“The pros are different to the amateurs but my debut will be over four rounds and I’m used to doing three-threes so I don’t think it’s going to be a huge change for me.

“Obviously, when I get to six, eight and ten rounds, thinks will be more difficult, but Ricky and his assistant Mike [Jackson] know exactly what they’re doing and will get me ready for any challenge.”

Arrowsmith has been working with Hatton at his gym in Hyde, Greater Manchester since June and believes ‘The Hitman’ is the right man to help him realise his dream of becoming Market Harborough’s first pro champion since George Aldridge set pulses racing back in the 1960s.

“The good thing about Ricky is that he trains fighters to their strengths. It’s not all about getting in close and leading with the left hook, he teaches you how to use your advantages and set your shots up and I think I can go all the way with him.” Reuben said.

“Ricky is a two weight world champion and fought the best of the best so I couldn’t wish to learn from anyone else.”

The October 10 bill is promoted by Black Country Boxing with tickets priced at £30 (unreserved seating) and £60 (stage and ringside).

IBF Welterweight champion Kell Brook will defend his crown against Diego Chaves on October 24 in Sheffield, England, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“I’m so excited about boxing in my hometown of Sheffield again. London last time out [in May] was a great experience fighting in front of nearly 20,000 but I’m excited to be back there — it is my home,” Brook said. “I’m looking to excite like I always do and light up the Motorpoint Arena on Oct. 24.”

“Chaves is a rough, tough, durable fighter who is very dangerous,” Brook said. “He’s bringing something new to the table. He’s coming off a draw to Tim Bradley, was ahead on the cards against Brandon Rios until he was disqualified and gave Keith Thurman a solid fight, so we know what level he has mixed at and how good he is.

“We know Brook is a tough fighter, very technical,” Chaves said. “He is a linear fighter, very frontal. He’s not a fast fighter. He is easily bothered by body punches, and that is one of our strengths. And I believe he has problems going backwards. We saw that in his fight against Shawn Porter. When Porter charged forward, Brook had trouble adjusting to that. But we know that he is a great fighter to face, and we are going to test his punching power too, because the opponents he chose so far have not been such great punchers as the ones I have faced lately.

“I feel that my confidence grows with this challenge, knowing that I will have to face a champion like Kell Brook in his home country in England. This raises the stakes for me, going up there as an Argentine, and as a huge underdog. We know all the bad blood that exists between Argentina and England, and this will give me much more strength. I will be making history if I defeat an Englishman in his own country.”

“It’s been a busy year so far boxing Dan in March and Gavin in May. This will be my third defense in seven months but a busy fighter is a happy fighter and I’m very happy at the moment,” Brook said. “I’m looking forward to the next challenge and I’m feeling sharp after my break.

“I’ve seen some of Chaves’ quotes and it’s interesting to see he thinks he can walk me down and overrun me. I don’t think some fighters realize how big I am and how sharp and accurate I punch and I’m looking to make a major statement against him. If he does what he promises it’s going to be one hell of a fight.”

Philadelphia, PA—Hard-hitting junior lightweight contender Jason Sosa, of Camden, NJ, takes on Jorge Pazos, of Guamuchil, Mexico, in the scheduled eight-round main event Friday evening, Oct. 2, at the First Annual Puerto Rican Boxing Classic at the 2300 Arena in South Philadelphia.

Sosa, 27, is fresh off his first-round knockout over former world-title challenger Jerry Belmontes, of Corpus Christi, TX, on Aug. 16 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.

The win over Belmontes marked Sosa’s 12th consecutive knockout and his 13th K0 overall on his 17-1-3 record. He is ranked No.13 in the world by the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

Sosa turned pro in 2009 after only three amateur fights—he lost two of them—and he has developed into a world-class fighter since teaming up with manager/trainer Raul “Chino” Rivas in 2012.

The Oct. 2 card will mark Sosa’s third appearance at the 2300 Arena, where he is 1-0-1. He boxed a four-round draw with Jose Ortiz, of Jersey City, NJ, there in 2010 and this year he knocked out Bergman Aguilar, of Nicaragua, in four rounds. Aguilar suffered a broken jaw in the match.

Sosa’s other major victory came in 2014 in Atlantic City where he knocked out Michael “Lefty” Brooks, of Staten Island, NY, in nine rounds. Brooks also suffered a broken jaw in that match.

In other fights this year, Sosa knocked out Herbert Quartey, of Ghana, and Santiago Bustos, of Spain.

Pazos (right), 26, makes his second appearance in Pennsylvania, having lost a 10-round decision there to Gamalier Rodriguez, of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, for the vacant NABO featherweight title two summers ago in Bethlehem.

A pro since 2007, Pazos is 14-8-1, 8 K0s. In his last fight Feb. 20 in New York, Pazos lost an eight-round decision to unbeaten Bryant Cruz, of Port Chester, NY.

The seven-bout fight card figures to attract a sold-out crowd.

From bantamweight Sixto Escobar, who became the first Puerto Rican world champion in 1935, to current title-holder Danny Garcia, of Philadelphia, Puerto Ricans have had a long and storied history in boxing.

Among area fighters looking to display their talents on the Oct. 2 card are local Puerto Rican fighters from Philadelphia and New Jersey. Many of them bring a loyal following to their fights.

In addition, invitations to attend and sign autographs will be sent to outstanding Puerto Rican fighters up and down the East Coast.

First fight is 7 pm.

The third edition of ESPN’s Premier Boxing Champions on ESPN presented by Corona Extra (PBC on ESPN) series—headlined by Leo Santa Cruz’s majority decision win over Abner Mares—on Saturday, Aug. 29, delivered the largest boxing audience on ESPN since February 1998 (02/22/98 Mark Johnson vs. Arthur Johnson).

The telecast was seen by an average of 1,217,000 viewers (P2+)—up 30 percent from the average of the previous two PBC telecasts on ESPN. The telecast peaked from 12:00-12:15am with 1,641,000 viewers (P2+) according to Nielsen.

ESPN’s Spanish-language telecast of the event on ESPN Deportes averaged a 1.3 Hispanic HH US Rtg and 355,000 Hispanic viewers—making it the highest-rated and most-watched boxing telecast to ever air on ESPN Deportes. The telecast peaked from 11:15-11:30 p.m. with 453,000 viewers.

ESPN Classic will reair the fight tonight at 7 p.m. ET as an Instant Classic. In addition, ESPN Deportes will re-air the entire card on Saturday, September 5, at 7 p.m.

“I think it’s an amazing event that happens once in a lifetime,” said Klitschko following his workout at the Lucky Street Boxing Gym in Hollywood, Florida. “I’m not sure if an event like this has ever taken place in history of boxing when all of the heavyweights, former heavyweight champions, coming together. It’s something amazing.

“I’ve seen a picture of Ali, Frazier, Foreman, Norton together and it was an amazing shot – it was a great shot for history. I think this Friday and Saturday is going to be really exciting. It is going to be a time where everybody is going to get a piece of memory, and that is the reality. It is a tough event to put together, I am happy that it is taking place, where all of the heavyweights can come together, have conversations and ask questions – and get some answers.

“It shows that we are all one community – one family, actually. There are some times in history where we didn’t like each other because we were fighting in the ring, but in a way we respect and love each other. It is definitely something that is going to be an historic moment.”

Shannon Briggs?

And that’s at the top. (laughs) Maybe we’ll get there to watch him fight. Maybe not. It depends on my training schedule – but I definitely will enjoy the night when all of the heavyweights get together. I definitely have a couple of questions to ask some of them.

‘World Heavyweight Champions”

Mike Tyson, Evander Holyfield, Wladimir Klitschko Lennox Lewis, Roy Jones Jr., Larry Holmes, Michael Moorer, Riddick Bowe, Ray Mercer, Hasim Rahman, Tony Tucker, Tony Tubbs, James “Bonecrusher” Smith, Michael Bentt, Lamon Brewster, Chris Byrd, John Ruiz, Mike Weaver, Tim Witherspoon, Pinklon Thomas, Leon Spinks, Michael Spinks, Shannon Briggs.

Editor’s Note: All Media requests for the “Red Carpet” and “Fight Night” on Saturday, Sept. 5, must be completed through the following link www.emcevents.com/briggsmarrone.

Requests MUST specify which event is being applied for in the Comments Box under the credentials link: “Red Carpet” or “Fight Night.”

LAS VEGAS (September 1, 2015) –Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) superstar Chael Sonnen has signed on with World Series of Fighting (WSOF.com) as a color commentator for multiple events, and will call his first action with veteran play-by-play announcer Todd Harris, at the highly-anticipated “WSOF 23: Gaethje vs. Palomino II” world championship doubleheader mega-event, live on NBCSN from Phoenix, Ariz. on Friday, Sept. 18 at 10 p.m. ET.

“I am stoked to join the powerhouse team at World Series of Fighting, and call their fights that feature some of the best mixed martial artists on the planet,” said Sonnen “World Series of Fighting has done an outstanding job of building their organization into a top-tier franchise in a very short span of time, and I am just proud to be a part of such a fast-growing company.

“We are thrilled to have Chael Sonnen, one of the most colorful individuals in professional sports, join our production,” said World Series of Fighting President Ray Sefo. “We are confident Chael will enhance the fan viewing experience both for our growing national audience on NBCSN and across the globe by providing the insights he learned competing at the highest level of the sport.”

The 38-year-old Sonnen is a former three-time UFC world championship challenger, NCAA Division I All-American wrestler and two-time PAC-10 runner-up for the University of Oregon and 2000 Greco-Roman World University championships silver medalist.

As an analyst, Sonnen has covered the sport of MMA for ESPN and FOX Sports 1.

The live NBCSN telecast of “WSOF 23: Gaethje vs. Palomino II” begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on Friday, Sept. 18 from Comerica Theatre. In the main event, undefeated reigning World Series of Fighting Lightweight (155 pounds) Champion Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje (14-0) will put his coveted title on the line for the second time against hard-hitting challenger Luis “Baboon” Palomino (23-10), six months after the two engaged in an all-out slugfest that is widely regarded as a “Fight of the Year” candidate.

In the co-main event, David Branch (16-3) will attempt to become the promotion’s first two-division champion and first World Series of Fighting light heavyweight (205 pounds) champion in history when he squares off with determined, hard-hitting KO artist Teddy Holder (9-1) in the championship round of the four-man, multi-event tournament that kicked off at Comerica Theatre on March 28.

About World Series of Fighting (WSOF)
“World Series of Fighting” (WSOF.com) is a world wide 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.

Las Vegas –UFC FIGHT PASS® will be “Powered by Ronda” throughout September – kicking off with a comprehensive collection of every Ronda Rousey title fight, two sets of live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims, four exclusive mixed martial arts (MMA) events streamed live from three continents and brand new Original Content all premiering throughout September.

“September will prove to be the greatest month to date for UFC FIGHT PASS – especially since we are Powered By Ronda as we showcase all of her championship fights including her first round KO of Bethe Correia at UFC 190 in Brazil,” said Eric Winter, Senior Vice President and General Manager of UFC FIGHT PASS. “In addition, we have two sets of live UFC FIGHT PASS Prelims, four exclusive live MMA events from three continents, the debut of our new original series The 3rd Degree, and the strongest installments yet of our fan-favorite Original Series, Fightography and Pioneers of MMA.”

During Super September Stream-a-thon, UFC FIGHT PASS will live stream the prelim fights kicking off UFC® 191: JOHNSON vs. DODSON 2 and UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: BARNETT vs. NELSON.

In addition, UFC FIGHT PASS will live stream Invicta FC 14 on September 12 – featuring the bantamweight title showdown between champion Tonya Evinger and unbeaten challenger Pannie Kianzad – from Kansas City, Missouri. On September 19th, live on UFC FIGHT PASS, three titles will be defended at Titan FC 35. Then, on September 25, UFC FIGHT PASS cameras will travel to Moscow, Russia for the inaugural broadcast of the streaming service’s latest content partner, EFN MMA. Finally, UFC FIGHT PASS will present another action packed card from Shooto Brazil 57 on September 27.

Here is a sneak peek at September on UFC FIGHT PASS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IwB2vooSW6A

Additional highlights of the Super September Stream-at-thon on UFC FIGHT PASS include:

Ronda Rousey: Every Title Fight (premieres September 1)

All eight of the world’s most dominant athlete’s title fights – from her Strikeforce® championship win back in 2012 to her recent domination of Bethe Correia – are presented in their entirety in a back-to-back format.

The 3rd Degree – with Kyra Gracie (two-part series, premieres September 8)

Every culture, in every corner of the globe, has a tradition of martial arts. Kyra Gracie – third degree Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and member of the legendary Gracie clan – travels the world seeking the roots of the world’s ancient fighting styles. Venturing beyond the bright lights of international competition, Kyra visits hole-in-the-wall gyms to encounter the men and women who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of their culture’s martial art.

In the first episode, Gracie travels across Brazil to better understand the richness of her native martial art. Then, in the second episode, Kyra travels completely out of her comfort zone – visiting the iconic Don Nacho gym in Mexico City to immerse herself in Mexican boxing. The first two episodes will premiere together on September 8, with UFC FIGHT PASS already committed to a full season of The 3rd Degree in 2016.

Pioneers of MMA: Bas Rutten (premieres September 15)

A brand new episode of the ground-breaking Original Series focuses on the career of Bas Rutten, the Dutch kickboxer whose terrifying striking helped him win championships in Pancrase and UFC, ultimately leading him to the UFC Hall of Fame. Featuring interviews with Rutten, Joe Rogan, Ronda Rousey and leading MMA historians, Pioneers of MMA is the definitive retrospective of true MMA icons.

Also, accompanying the Pioneers of MMA episode, UFC FIGHT PASS will present every single Rutten fight, in career order, from his September 1993 debut, his legendary bouts in Japan, his UFC championship run and his farewell fight in the World Fighting Alliance in 2006.

Fightography: BJ Penn (premieres September 22)

Legendary two-division UFC champion BJ Penn gives a dramatic first-person account of his historic trilogy with Matt Hughes. The pair of UFC Hall of Famers fought three times between 2004 and 2010, starting off as bitter rivals but eventually developing a mutual respect that turned into a friendship. In the latest installment of the popular FIGHT PASS Original Series, Penn gives his side of the epic rivalry with Hughes.

The short film will be presented with all of Penn’s UFC bouts, including his professional debut, to his two UFC championship reigns, to his final bout in July 2014.

UFC Fan Expo® 2015:The Fighter Panels

Recorded exclusively for FIGHT PASS at UFC Fan Expo® in 2015, hosts Mike Goldberg and Megan Olivi sat down with some of the biggest names in UFC, past and present, in front of a live audience. Unless you were lucky enough to attend UFC Fan Expo, this is your first chance to enjoy these fascinating panels.

“Reigning UFC Champions Panel” (premieres September 6)

Hosted by Mike Goldberg and featuring reigning UFC champions Fabricio Werdum, Chris Weidman, Rafael dos Anjos, Demetrious Johnson and Joanna Jedrzejczyk.

“Women of the UFC Panel” (premieres September 11)

Hosted by Megan Olivi and featuring Paige VanZant, Rose Namajunas, Julianna Pena and Liz Carmouche.

“Legends of UFC Panel” (premieres September 13)
Hosted by Mike Goldberg and featuring UFC legends Chuck Liddell, Matt Hughes, Pat Miletich, Oleg Taktarov, Don Frye, Paul Varelans, Guy Mezger and Gary Goodridge.

Plus, there is a new brand episode of The Road to UFC Japan every Monday and The Ultimate Fighter®: Latin America premieres every Wednesday. Both shows are exclusive to UFC FIGHT PASS.

“Our number one goal is to provide the greatest collection of live-streaming fights and video-on-demand to our existing subscribers, while enticing all MMA fans to give UFC FIGHT PASS a try via our 7-day free trial,” Winter said.

For the full UFC FIGHT PASS calendar, click here.

About UFC®

UFC® is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Singapore and Sao Paulo, UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in 158 countries and territories to over 1 billion TV households worldwide in 21 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S., which annually includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network, as well as The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service that is available throughout the world with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. The UFC organization also licenses over 100 UFC GYM® locations, and owns UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT® (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC Magazine, and has a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, UFC branded apparel, DVDs and Blu-rays and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter and Instagram: @UFC.

TACOMA, Wash. – Justin “Ruckus” Harrington will make his first defense of the Super Fight League America lightweight title on Saturday, Sept. 26 when he faces Woo “Why So Serious” Johnson in the main event of CageSport MMA presents SFL 44 at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma.

Harrington (7-2) is a two-time CageSport champion and opened his professional career with six consecutive victories with every triumph coming via stoppage. A resident of Enumclaw, Wash., Harrington captured the vacant SFL lightweight crown on July 12 with a victory over Harrison Bevens, winning by second-round TKO.

Johnson (5-1), of Spanaway, Wash., earned his title shot with an equally impressive victory on the SFL 41 undercard, defeating Chris Aparicio via submission (rear naked choke) at the 4:40 mark of the third round.

“This really is a bout worthy of main event status. It was hard to decide whose victory at SFL 41 was more exciting,” said promoter Brian Halquist. “They both tore the house down last time. Each has a feverish fan base locally. It should all add up to an excellent title fight.”

Tickets are available through the EQQ box office and all Ticket Master Outlets. Doors open at 6 p.m. with preliminary bouts starting at 7 p.m.

In the co-main event bout Alfonso “Big Smooth” Gonzales (7-1) will square off against Thomas “Tiny” Hoeper (1-1) for the vacant SFL America light heavyweight title.

Gonzales made his pro debut at CageSport 23 with a quick first-round TKO win over Steve Simpson and is a perfect 4-0 all-time at the Emerald Queen Casino, while the 6-foot-7 Hoeper is coming off a victory over Nate Cook at SFL 36.

Highlighting the undercard will be two-time CageSport champion and local favorite Drew “The Eternal Fire” Brokenshire (11-2). Brokenshire, a native of Tacoma, faces Daniel “Agent Orange” Swain (11-5-1) in a featherweight contest which should see the victor emerge as a top contender for the SFL America title.

Super Fight League 44 is brought to you by Brian Halquist Productions and CageSport MMA. For more information, please visit www.halquistproductions.com and the CageSport MMA Facebook page.

###

ABOUT SUPER FIGHT LEAGUE
The Super Fight League is Asia’s leading Mixed Martial Arts organization. Over the past decade, with the guidance of state athletic commissions throughout the United States, Mixed Martial Arts has developed from a spectacle into a highly respected sport with a global audience. Major fights between world-renowned Mixed Martial Arts superstars are among the most popular sporting events of the year, surpassing pay-per-view records of boxing and professional wrestling. Sports fans around the World have made their voices heard, they want a sense of real competition when they watch sports, and MMA delivers. The Super Fight League brings Mixed Martial Arts to India and it brings it the world through its partnership with YouTube.com. MMA fans can catch all Super Fight League live and for free on TV in India and YouTube everywhere else.

ABOUT BRIAN HALQUIST
Brian Halquist Productions is the Northwest premiere fight promotion company creator of the famed “Battle at the Boat” boxing series promoting more than 17 years and 100 fights at the Emerald Queen Casino. BHP has also built the largest professional MMA series on the USA’s west coast with “CageSport MMA” promoting over 30 fights. Brian Halquist Productions has promoted events for ESPN, ShowTime and HBO and featured on Showtime’s historic boxing event in St Lucia, West Indies. Brian Halquist Productions has been promoting fights and concerts for over 30 years in the Pacific Northwest.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, the WBO Middleweight title bout between Andy Lee and Billy Joe Saunders has been postponed for a 2nd time due to a cut suffered by Saunders.

They were originally scheduled to fight Sept. 19 at Thomond Park in Lee’s hometown of Limerick, Ireland, but Lee came down with a virus and postponed the fight. It was rescheduled for Oct. 10 at Manchester Arena in Manchester, England, but now will have to wait until Saunders’ cut is healed.

“First of all I’m sorry to Andy and all the fans that this fight has had to be postponed again,” Saunders said. “It’s completely unfortunate that I got a cut during a sparring session, but there’s nothing I can do now until the specialist advises me on when I can resume training and fight again.

“I’m committed to this world title fight. I’m the WBO mandatory challenger, and the WBO have confirmed that I’ll remain the mandatory challenger. It’s just a very frustrating situation at the moment as myself and Andy just want to get in the ring and fight after all the delays.”

“Hugely disappointed for myself and for the boxing public,” Lee said. “These things happen. Me and Billy Joe Saunders will get it on when the new date is set.”

Warren said the card still will go on with the two other world title bouts already on the show. Lightweight titleholder Terry Flanagan (28-0, 11 KOs), who is from Manchester, will move into the main event as he makes his first defense, a mandatory, against Las Vegas contender Diego Magdaleno (28-1, 12 KOs). Also, England’s Liam Smith (20-0-1, 10 KOs) will face Newark, New Jersey’s John Thompson (17-1, 6 KOs), a 2015 ESPN Boxcino tournament winner, for a vacant junior middleweight world title.

“It’s a real shame that Billy has been forced out of the fight because of a cut and we await the report from the specialists so that we can look to reschedule the fight as soon as possible for the fans,” Warren said. “Whilst Saunders versus Lee has fallen through, there are two thrilling world title fights on the show with Terry Flanagan facing a dangerous first defense against tough American Diego Magdaleno, and Liam Smith has a big test against American upsetter John Thompson.

“It’s a disappointment, but I’m very optimistic that the show is still one of the best of the year, if not the best, with a top class lineup.”

Sao Paulo – Mixed martial arts (MMA) legend Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, known by fans worldwide as “Minotauro,” officially announced his retirement from UFC® competition today. While his fighting days may have come to a close, his work in the MMA community is only beginning as he will serve as an Athlete Relations Ambassador for UFC® Brazil.

As part of his new contract, Nogueira will provide services for a number of initiatives in the Brazil region. He will serve as a liaison for the organization between athletes, sponsors, media and government bodies, as well as act as a mentor in the development of young athletes. Additionally, Nogueira will assist in identifying rising talent throughout Brazil as UFC® continues to seek the best athletes for its roster.

“‘Big Nog’ is a legend in the sport of MMA,” UFC President Dana White said. “He is respected by fighters and fans worldwide. It has been an honor to watch him compete and I’m happy to see him retire. He will be a huge asset to the UFC, the athletes and the sport as an ambassador. I look forward to working with him in this new chapter of his life.”

Nogueira added: “It’s a great pleasure and an honor for me to further my ties with the UFC. I’ve always had a passion to follow the development of new athletes and that’s what I intend to continue doing. I want to help further the spread of MMA around the world and give my contribution to the emergence and development of young talent. I appreciate all the confidence that Dana White, Lorenzo Fertitta and Frank Fertitta have in me, and I believe we will reach big results together. I know that I can, and will, contribute much to the growth of our sport outside of the Octagon.”

Prior to his retirement, Nogueira boasted one of the most successful careers in MMA history. With his first professional fight in 1999, Nogueira rose to prominence in Japan with PRIDE Fighting Championship, eventually becoming a two time champion in the organization, including winning their first ever heavyweight belt in 2001. Upon PRIDE being purchased by an affiliate of Zuffa, LLC in 2007, Nogueira continued his dominance by defeating Tim Sylvia for the interim UFC® heavyweight title. Big Nog also had a number of other memorable fights, including his homecoming to Rio de Janeiro in 2011, when he defeated Brendan Schaub at UFC® 134 in front of raucous crowd that few will forget. Nogueira finishes his career with a sterling impressive 34-10-1 record and a reputation as one of the greatest Brazilian jiu-jitsu artists ever in the heavyweight division, as evidenced by his 22 submission victories.

Nogueira is a pillar to the community in Rio de Janeiro boasting an Institute co-owned by his twin brother, current UFC® fighter Antonio Rogério “Minotouro” Nogueira. The “Nogueira Brothers Institute” was created in 2008 and has six operating centers that train underprivileged children in Brazil, using MMA as a social inclusion tool. Since its inception, the project has contributed to social development by changing the lives of many young people from communities throughout Rio de Janeiro, building exemplary citizenship and overcoming barriers.

Rodrigo and Rogerio are also known for their entrepreneurial profiles. The twins own a chain of franchised Team Nogueira gyms, with 33 locations, including a gym in Dubai. In three years, Team Nogueira franchises have reached over 10,000 students.

###

About UFC®
UFC® is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest Pay-Per-View event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Singapore and Sao Paulo, UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in 158 countries and territories to over one billion TV households worldwide in 21 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S., which annually includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network, as well as The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service that is available throughout the world with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. The UFC organization also licenses over 100 UFC GYM® locations, and owns UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT® (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC Magazine, and has a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, UFC branded apparel, DVDs and Blu-rays and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter and Instagram: @UFC.

DORADO, PR (Sept. 1, 2015) – WBO Junior Lightweight Champion Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) and WBO/IBF featherweight world-ranked Jonathan “Polvo” Oquendo (25-4, 16 KOs) worked out for the press in Puerto Rico on Monday, Aug, 31 in advance of their SHOWTIME PPV® fights against former world champions Orlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs) and Jhonny Gonzalez (58-9, 49 KOs), respectively. The event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 12 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas highlighted by HIGH STAKES: Floyd Mayweather vs. Andre Berto.

Martinez and Oquendo worked before the media at the Dorado Municipal Gym in Dorado, Puerto Rico. Both fighters completed a full training session with their respective trainers Raul Torres and Dennis Pantojas.

This is what the fighters had to say during Monday’s workout:

Román “Rocky” Martínez
“I’m preparing for a big fight on September 12. Everyone saw that the first fight against Salido was a true ‘War.’ This time around, I’m planning to give my fans the same type of fight. I predict a non-stop action slugfest.

“My team and I are working and have been working really hard in training camp. I believe that we are doing everything that needs to be done. I’m in the best shape of my career and I’m planning to win once again, either by knockout or decision, but I’ll win.

“We have worked more on side-to-side and in-and-out movement. If I see him hurt early I’m going to finish him.”

Raul Torres, Martinez’s Trainer
“Rocky is a 100 percent prepared for [Orlando] Salido. I have no doubt that we will emerge victorious once again.

“[Orlando] Salido is a fighter that likes to go forward. He stands in front of you and he goes at it. He’s tough, but we are tougher. We are ready.”

Jonathan Oquendo
“This is very important fight for me. This is my opportunity to put myself in the world title landscape. I’m not going to let this opportunity slip away from me.

“Jhonny Gonzalez is a veteran of 60 fights, so you can’t take him lightly. Preparation is key.

“This will be the first fight at 130 pounds for me and I can say that the training camp has been very good, better than expected.

“I’m feeling strong. I think this is a good weight for me, I’m comfortable because I don’t have to lose much weight and can train better.”

Dennis Pantojas, Oquendo’s trainer
“We have had a very good training camp. Jonathan [Oquendo] has not had any problems and he’s right on weight that we want.

“I see Jonathan [Oquendo] more focused and stronger than ever. We are not only hitting the gym, we are also swimming a lot and that has helped him lots. “

# # #

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC., are priced at $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300 and $150 and are on sale now. Tickets are limited to eight (8) per household for all ticket prices except the $150 ticket category, which is limited to four (4) per household. To charge by phone or with a major credit card, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets also are available for purchase at www.mgmgrand.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

“HIGH STAKES: Mayweather vs. Berto,” a 12-round welterweight world championship bout for Mayweather’s WBC and WBA 147-pound titles, is promoted by Mayweather Promotions LLC. The event will take place Saturday, September 12 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas and will be televised by SHOWTIME PPV. The undercard features a WBO Junior Lightweight World Championship fight, which is a rematch between Roman Martinez and Orlando Salido, which is promoted in association with PR Best Boxing. Also featured on the PPV telecast will be a WBC Super Middleweight title bout between Badou Jack and George Groves, which is promoted in association with Team Sauerland. The opening PPV bout pits former world champion Jhonny Gonzalez against Puerto Rico’s Jonathan Oquendo in a 10-round junior lightweight bout.

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (September 1, 2015) – A 120-pound Glory kickboxing bout pitting Ker Anne Taylor-Melendez (2-1) against Hadley “Relentless” Griffith (pro debut) completes the Spike-televised card of “Bellator MMA: Dynamite 1” on September 19 at SAP Center in San Jose, Calif.

For the first time ever, “Bellator MMA: Dynamite 1” will feature both a Bellator MMA cage and a Glory kickboxing ring on one arena floor at the same time. In the evening’s main event, Tito Ortiz (18-11) will challenge the undefeated Bellator Light Heavyweight World Champion, Liam McGeary (10-0) for the title.

Additionally, the previously announced fight card features a Glory kickboxing title fight featuring Zack Mwekassa (13-2, 12 KO) and Saulo Cavalari (31-2, 19 KO) for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship, as well as Bellator MMA competitors Paul “Semtex” Daley (37-13-2) and Fernando “The Menifee Maniac” Gonzalez (24-13) also competing in Glory action, when they trade-in the MMA gloves for kickboxing gloves.

On the mixed martial arts side, Bellator MMA will also conduct a four-man, one-night light heavyweight tournament to determine the No. 1 contender in the division that features Phil Davis (13-3) taking on Emanuel Newton (25-8-1) and Linton Vassell (15-4-1) facing Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal (15-4, 1 NC). Newly signed lightweight standout Josh “The Punk” Thomson (20-8, 1 NC) is also in action, when he makes his Bellator MMA debut against Mike “The Greek Assassin” Bronzoulis (18-8-1).

“Bellator MMA: Dynamite 1” airs live and free on Spike at 9/8c. Tickets for the historic event start at just $30 and are on sale now at the SAP Center box office and are also available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com and Bellator.com.

At only 31 years of age, Taylor-Melendez has previously competed in both kickboxing and muay Thai, but fully intends on transitioning to the sport of mixed martial arts in the near future. The spouse of former WEC and Strikeforce Champion Gilbert Melendez and co-owner of El Nino Training Center in San Francisco, Taylor-Melendez first took up combat sports close to 10 years ago, making a name for herself fighting in the Bay Area. After racking up a 4-1 amateur record, she took her talents to the professional circuit, where she currently holds a 2-1 kickboxing record.

A five-fight mixed martial arts veteran, Griffith will return to action for the first time in 2015, except this time it will be inside a Glory kickboxing ring. “Relentless” eagerly awaits her return to combat sports after being out of action for more than a year due to an injury that caused the amputation of the top of her middle finger. A native of Washington, and training in Colorado, Hadley will likely have plenty of fan support on September 19 in San Jose, Calif.

“Bellator MMA: Dynamite 1” – Saturday, September 19 – SAP Center, San Jose, Calif.

Bellator Light Heavyweight Title Fight: Tito Ortiz (18-11) vs. © Liam McGeary (10-0)
Bellator Light Heavyweight Tournament Final: TBD vs. TBD
Glory Vacant Light Heavyweight Title Fight: Saulo Cavalari (31-2) vs. Zack Mwekassa (13-2)
Bellator Lightweight Feature Fight: Josh Thomson (20-8) vs. Mike Bronzoulis (18-8-1)
Glory Welterweight Feature Fight: Paul Daley (37-13-2 MMA/20-3 Kickboxing) vs. Fernando Gonzalez (24-13/1-2 Kickboxing)
Glory Bantamweight Feature Fight: Kerri Anne Taylor-Melendez (2-1) vs. Hadley Griffith (Debut)
Bellator Light Heavyweight Tournament Fight: Phil Davis (13-3) vs. Emanuel Newton (25-8-1)
Bellator Light Heavyweight Tournament Fight: Linton Vassell (15-4-1) vs. Muhammed Lawal (15-4, 1 NC)
Bellator Light Heavyweight Tournament Alternate Bout: Francis Carmont (23-10) vs. Philipe Lins (9-1)

*Fight card subject to change

About Bellator MMA
Bellator MMA is a leading Mixed Martial Arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, Bellator is available to nearly 500 million homes worldwide in over 140 countries. In the United States, Bellator can be seen on Spike TV, the MMA television leader. Bellator MMA is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations. Bellator is based in Santa Monica, California and owned by entertainment giant Viacom, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

About GLORY:
Founded in 2012, GLORY is owned and operated by GLORY Sports International (GSI), a professional martial arts organization and television content provider that maintains offices in New York, Denver, London, Amsterdam, and Singapore. GLORY programming is seen in over 170 territories. GLORY kickboxing rules are comprised of a mix of several combat disciplines including Karate, Muay Thai, Tae Kwon Do and traditional Boxing. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter @GLORY_WS, and visit us online at gloryworldseries.com.

About Spike:
Spike is available in 98.7 million homes and is a division of Viacom Media Networks. A unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), Viacom Media Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike’s Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike’s press site at http://www.spike.com/press. Follow us on Twitter @spiketvpr for the latest in breaking news updates, behind-the-scenes information and photos.

About SAP Center in San Jose
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, SAP Center at San Jose is the premier sports and entertainment venue in Northern California. Each year, SAP Center hosts approximately 175 events featuring professional and amateur athletes, Olympic athletes, Grammy award-winners, international recording artists, and a variety of performers who appeal to children and families alike. SAP Center at San Jose is home to the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League as well as the San Jose SaberCats of the Arena Football League. For more information about SAP Center at San Jose and for a list of upcoming events, visit the SAP Center home page at www.sapcenter.com.

Las Vegas – Competitors from 11 different countries have been cast for the next season of The Ultimate Fighter® led by UFC® interim featherweight champion and proud Irishman Conor McGregor, opposite former WEC® featherweight champion Urijah “The California Kid” Faber. The premiere episode, debuting on September 9 at 10 p.m. ET on FOX Sports 1, will showcase 32 fighters competing for one of 16 spots featuring eight Europeans and eight Americans and the opportunity to be coached by two of the sport’s best athletes.

The Europeans will be led by Dublin’s own McGregor (18-2, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland), while the American squad will be under the tutelage of Faber (32-8, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.). The fighters from around the globe will descend upon the Las Vegas desert for a chance at a UFC contract and the ability to be coached by two of the sports’ best. Given the history between McGregor and Faber’s Team Alpha Male gym, paired with national pride on the line, the teams’ rivalry will be fierce and competition intense.

McGregor took the MMA world by storm when he burst onto the UFC scene in 2013, quickly amassing a 6-0 record inside the Octagon® en route to becoming the interim featherweight champion. Currently riding a 14-fight winning streak, “The Notorious” is set to unify his title with pound-for-pound king Jose Aldo at UFC 194 on December 12 in Las Vegas.

This will be Faber’s second stint as coach, having served as head coach for season 15 against rival Dominick Cruz in 2012. Widely considered a pioneer amongst fighters in the lighter weight classes, Faber is one of the most recognized and respected competitors in mixed martial arts history.

Below is a full list of competitors by team and in alphabetical order (name, professional record, age, hometown):

United States

Europe

Andreas Quintana, 8-1, 24, Albuquerque, N.M.

Artem Lobov, 11-10-1-1, 28, Dublin, Ireland

Austin Springer, 8-0, 27, Portland, Ore.

Abner Lloveras, 19-7-1, 32, Barcelona, Spain

Billy Quarantillo, 6-1, 26, Tampa, Fla.

David Teymur, 3-1, 25, Stockholm, Sweden

Brandon Ricetti, 7-1, 28, Chico, Calif.

Djamil Chan, 19-2, 24, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Brennan Sevin, 7-1, 29, Chauvin, La.

Frantz Frank Slioa, 4-0, 24, Stockholm, Sweden

Chris Gruetzemacher, 12-1, 29, Peoria, Ariz.

Marcin Wrzosek, 10-2, 27, Bydgoszcz, Poland

Jason Soares, 8-0, 25, Miami, Fla.

Martin Delaney, 10-1, 36, Bathgate, Scotland

Johnny Nunez, 5-1, 29, Las Vegas, Nev.

Martin Svensson, 14-5, 30, Malmo, Sweden

James Jenkins, 8-1, 29, Long Island, N.Y.

Mehdi Baghdad, 11-3, 29, Toulon, France

Jason Gonzalez, 9-2, 25, Colton, Calif.

Mohamed Grabinski, 10-1, 23, Dusseldorf, Germany

Julian Erosa, 14-2, 25, Yakima, Wash.

Paulo Boer, 10-1-1, 29, Holland

Mike Flach, 7-1, 27, Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.

Sascha Sharma, 8-2, 27, Stuttgart, Germany

Ryan Hall, 4-1, 30, Falls Church, Va.

Saul Rogers, 10-1, 25, Bolton, England

Thanh Le, 4-1, 29, New Orleans, La.

Sean Carter, 10-1, 30, Essex, England

Tim Welch, 12-5, 25, Glendale, Ariz.

Thibault Gouti, 10-0, 28, Avignon, France

Tom Gallicchio, 19-8, 28, Perth Amboy, N.J.

Vladimir Sikic, 10-0, 25, Frankfurt, Germany

The show will feature 12 episodes airing Wednesdays on FOX Sports 1. Each episode’s winner will advance in the single-elimination tournament, leading to the season finale card on December 11 in Las Vegas. The finale will be headlined by former lightweight champion and current second-ranked featherweight Frankie Edgar taking on Faber teammate, No. 3 Chad Mendes.

For more show information, bios, videos and photos, visit ultimatefighter.com and follow us on Twitter @UltimateFighter and Facebook.

About UFC®
UFC® is the premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization and largest pay-per-view event provider in the world. Headquartered in Las Vegas with offices in London, Toronto, Singapore and Sao Paulo, UFC produces more than 40 live events annually that consistently sell out some of the most prestigious arenas around the globe. UFC programming is broadcast in 158 countries and territories to over 1 billion TV households worldwide in 21 different languages. The UFC has a multi-year broadcast agreement with FOX in the U.S., which annually includes four live events broadcast on the FOX network, as well as The Ultimate Fighter® reality television show and thousands of hours of programming on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Sports 2. In 2014, UFC launched UFC FIGHT PASS®, a digital subscription service that is available throughout the world with exclusive live events, thousands of fights on-demand and original content. The UFC organization also licenses over 100 UFC GYM® locations, and owns UFC.TV® (offering live event broadcasts and video on-demand around the world), UFC FIT® (an in-home fitness and nutrition program), UFC Magazine, and has a videogame franchise with EA SPORTS, UFC Fight Club®, UFC Fan Expo®, UFC branded apparel, DVDs and Blu-rays and Topps Trading Cards. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter and Instagram: @UFC.

About FOX Sports

FOX Sports is the umbrella entity representing 21st Century FOX’s wide array of multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, FOX Sports includes ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses and several licensing partnerships. FOX Sports includes the sports television arm of the FOX Broadcasting Company; FOX Sports 1, FOX Sports 2; FOX Sports Regional Networks, their affiliated regional web sites and national programming; FOX Soccer Plus; FOX Deportes and FOX College Sports. In addition, FOX Sports also encompasses FOX Sports Digital, which includes FOXSports.com, FOX Sports GO, Whatifsports.com and Yardbarker.com. Also included in the Group are FOX’s interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network and BTN 2Go, as well as a licensing agreement that establish the FOX Sports Radio Network.

CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS (August 31, 2015) – After a razor thin decision in their first fight, top bantamweights Jamie McDonnell (26-2-1, 12 KOs) and Tomoki “El Mexicanito” Kameda (31-1, 19 KOs) will square-off again on the Sunday, September 6 edition of Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) on CBS live from the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

The 12-round bantamweight showdown will kick-off the telecast beginning at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT and will be headlined by a super middleweight battle between Anthony “The Dog” Dirrell (27-1-1, 22 KOs) and Marco Antonio “El Veneno” Rubio (59-7-1, 51 KOs).

In the first fight between the United Kingdom’s McDonnell and Japan’s Kameda, which originally aired on the May 9 installment of PBC on CBS, McDonnell narrowly took the decision 114-113 on all three judges’ scorecards.

In total, the two men combined to throw over 1,000 punches in their first fight, including nearly 800 power punches over the 12 rounds. On September 6, McDonnell and Kameda will go toe-to-toe once again with bantamweight supremacy on the line.

“I have a great engine and I always come on strong in the back end of the fight,” said McDonnell. “I think from round six on it was my fight. I started too slowly in the first fight but I worked hard and got the win.”

“I definitely think I won the first fight,” said Kameda. “I landed the much harder punches and built up enough of an early lead, but the judges saw what they saw. It was a close fight and I know I can change the outcome this time.”

One of the key moments in the fight (and one that some thought could have swung the fight in Kameda’s favor) was his third round knockdown of McDonnell via a lightning-fast right hand.

“I can remember being on the floor and I didn’t know how I got there,” said McDonnell. “His speed and power is there and I went down. It proves that not everyone is invincible and if you get caught, you are going to go down. We’ve put some work in to counter that power and hopefully that will show on fight night.”

Both men are deep into training camp now and have been working on numerous adjustments to keep their opponents guessing coming into the rematch. For Kameda these changes involved a change in coach as he enters his first fight with new trainer Ismael Salas.

“I have a completely different team now with Ismael Salas and Angel Heredia and ‘Stich’ Duran as cut man,” said Kameda. “I feel much better going into this fight with better sparring and preparation and it will show in the fight. Salas has a great game plan and I can’t wait to perform it.

“McDonnell is tall, so getting inside his jab took some extra work. He’s a good veteran but I will show I’m the superior fighter once again.”

“We knew he was going to be fast, he’s the fastest I have ever faced,” said McDonnell. “I got tagged with a right hand but in the rematch I know what to expect now. I’ve sparred against a lad that throws his right hand like Kameda does so I know how to keep out of range for that.

“I feel I am hitting harder. I’ve been working on my power in the gym and I feel it’s going to pay off. I’m always in great shape and I’ve been flying in the gym. I am really looking forward to this one.”

For McDonnell, it was a successful U.S. debut as he returned home to the United Kingdom victorious. McDonnell has already arrived in Texas as he did before their first fight in order to acclimate to the time and climate changes.

“I loved being in America for the last fight and doing the afternoon show,” said McDonnell. “We’ve been to Texas before now and it was a great time so I am happy to be back here and I know what to expect. We’ve brought Ryan Burnett (10-0, 8 KOs) out here to Corpus Christi to spar for the full fortnight, plus my wife, daughter and brother Gavin are all out here with me again.”

The two fighters will look to prove their supremacy once again and entertain boxing fans around the world on September 6.

“I think it will be a fast paced fight,” said McDonnell. “I started too slowly last time and I don’t want that to happen again. I believe I will stop him late.. I took him into the trenches last time but I didn’t put it on him enough. I think I will make a big statement.”

“I will look to prepare shots to score points and be victorious,” said Kameda. “If the knockout comes, I will take it. Most important is to get the victory and we will do what we have to do to win. I will not let him back in the fight later on. This time I will start strong and finish him and not let off the gas until I am champion again.”

# # #

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Leija Battah Promotions and Warriors Boxing, are priced at $109, $93, $49, $38 and $15, not including applicable service charges and taxes and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com, the American Bank Center Box Office or by calling Leija Battah Promotions at (210) 979-3302. To charge by phone call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com and www.americanbankcenter.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing @AnthonyDirrell, @MAVenenoRubio, @JamieMcDonnell1, @TomokiKameda, @SHOSports, @WarriorsBoxingProm, @LeijaBattahPR, @AmericanBankCtr and @Swanson_Comm,
become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions and www.Facebook.com/WarriorsBoxingPromo.

MASHANTUCKET, Conn. (August 31, 2015) – Some of the top prospects from the Northeast including undefeated super featherweight Bryant “Pee Wee” Cruz (15-0, 8 KOs) will be showcased on a stacked undercard Saturday, September 12 live from Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT with the first bout beginning at 1 p.m. ET.

The September 12 Premier Boxing Champions on NBC card is headlined by undefeated middleweight star Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (31-0-1, 22 KOs) taking on Michael “Pretty Boy” Zerafa (17-1, 9 KOs) in a 10-round middleweight bout with world title implications on the line for former world champion Quillin. Super welterweight world champion Cornelius “K-9” Bundrage (34-5, 19 KOs) will defend his title against undefeated rising star Jermall Charlo (21-0, 16 KOs) in the co-main event. Live coverage begins at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on NBC.

As part of the previously announced featured undercard bouts, two of the most promising prospects in boxing will put their undefeated records on the line as 2012 U.S. Olympian and highly-touted light heavyweight “Sir” Marcus Browne (15-0, 11 KOs), takes on former world champion Gabriel Campillo (25-7-1, 12 KOs), and undefeated middleweight Hugo “The Boss” Centeno (22-0, 12 KOs) meets Poland’s Lukas Maciec (22-2-1, 5 KOs).

The Browne or Centeno fight could end up as a swing bout for the NBC broadcast pending the outcome of the two scheduled televised bouts.

Fighting on the non-televised portion of the undercard are top prospects representing New England, New York and Washington D.C.

The Undefeated super featherweight Cruz, fighting out of Port Chester, NY, puts his perfect record on the line in an eight-round bout.

Popular New York City super featherweight Gary Stark Jr. (24-3, 8 KOs) will be gunning for his second straight win of his comeback bid against former African champion Anthony Napunyi (15-15, 6 KOs) in a six-round match.

Washington D.C. super featherweight Antonio Russell (3-0, 2 KOs), the younger brother of reigning world super featherweight champion and 2008 U.S. Olympian Gary Russell, Jr., will compete in a six-round bout while undefeated super bantamweight world champion Shelly “Shelito’s Way” Vincent (14-0, 1 KO) squares off against former Youth champion Brittany “Pretty Girl” Cruz (10-6-2, 2 KOs) in an eight-round non-title fight.

Also fighting on the undercard in a four-round matchup is Elmont, NY super featherweight Titus Williams (1-0), a 2013 New York Golden Gloves champion, taking on Benjamin Burgos (2-12-1), and a four-round featherweight bout featuring Timmy Ramos (1-0, 1 KO) of Framingham, MA.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $150, $85 and $45, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com and www.foxwoods.com or by visiting the Foxwoods’ Box Office. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000.

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com, www.dbe1.comand www.nbcsports.com/boxing,follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @KidChocolate @K9Boxing, @FutureOfBoxing, @LouDiBella, @FoxwoodsCT and @Swanson_Comm,
become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions, www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment and www.facebook.com/NBCSports.

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (September 1, 2015) – Brandon “Bull” Halsey (9-0) will compete for the second time in 2015 when he meets Rafael Carvalho (11-1) for the Bellator MMA middleweight title in the co-main event of “Bellator 144: Galvao vs. Dantas 2” at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., on October 23.

The contest will serve as the co-main event of “Bellator 144: Galvao vs. Dantas 2,” which airs live on Spike at 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT, while preliminary bouts will stream on Spike.com at 7 p.m. ET.

The main event of “Bellator 144: Galvao vs. Dantas 2” features a bantamweight title fight between Marcos Galvao (17-6-1) and Eduardo Dantas, (17-4). In addition, “Irish” Brennan Ward (11-3) will be in action, as will Michael “Venom” Page (8-0). The pair of welterweight’s opponents, as well as additional bouts will be announced shortly.

Tickets for “Bellator 144: Galvao vs. Dantas 2,” which start at just $25, are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com and the Mohegan Sun Arena box office. Doors for the event open at 6:00 p.m. ET local time, and the first contest takes place shortly after.

Undefeated to open his professional mixed martial arts career, Halsey looks to take back the middleweight title that he never lost. “Bull” was stripped of the title after a training camp injury hindered his ability to make weight prior to “Bellator 137: Halsey vs. Grove,” a fight that the 28-year-old went on to win in emphatic fashion. It’s worth noting that Halsey recently re-signed with Bellator MMA to an exclusive, multi-fight contract.

Carvalho entered his Bellator debut with Joe “Stitch Em’ Up” Schilling at “Bellator 136: Brooks vs. Jansen” as the underdog, but after a tightly contested bout, earned a split decision victory. The 29-year-old Rio de Janeiro resident has not tasted defeat since the opening contest of his 12-fight career and has only seen two of his wins go as far as the judges’ scorecards.

Bellator 144: “Galvao vs. Dantas 2” Updated Card

Main Card: (Spike – 9 p.m. ET/8 p.m. CT)
Bellator Bantamweight Championship Fight: Marcos Galvao (17-6-1) vs. Eduardo Dantas (17-4)
Bellator Middleweight Championship Fight: Brandon Halsey (9-0) vs. Rafael Carvalho (11-1)
Bellator Welterweight Feature Fight: Michael Page (8-0) vs. TBA
Bellator Heavyweight Feature Fight: Brennan Ward (11-3) vs. TBA

About Bellator MMA
Bellator MMA is a leading Mixed Martial Arts organization featuring many of the best fighters in the world. Under the direction of veteran fight promoter Scott Coker, Bellator is available to nearly 500 million homes worldwide in over 140 countries. In the United States, Bellator can be seen on Spike, the MMA television leader. Bellator MMA is comprised of an executive team that includes top industry professionals in television production, live event orchestration, fighter development/relations, venue procurement, sponsorship creation/development, international licensing, marketing, advertising, publicity and commission relations. Bellator is based in Santa Monica, California and owned by entertainment giant Viacom, home to the world’s premier entertainment brands that connect with audiences through compelling content across television, motion picture, online and mobile platforms.

About Spike:
Spike is available in 98.7 million homes and is a division of Viacom Media Networks. A unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), Viacom Media Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike’s Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike’s press site at http://www.spike.com/press. Follow us on Twitter @spiketvpr for the latest in breaking news updates, behind-the-scenes information and photos.

LOS ANGELES (August 31, 2015) – Undefeated featherweight sensation Diego De La Hoya (11-0, 7 KOs) will fight for his first professional title on Friday, September 4, as he takes on former world title challenger Jesus “Estrella” Ruiz (32-6-5, 21 KOs) for the vacant WBC Youth Featherweight Title in the latest edition of LA FIGHT CLUB. The 10-round featherweight bout will be televised live nationally on Viernes de Boxeo Estelar on Estrella TV at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT from Downtown Los Angeles’ Belasco Theater.

In the co-main event, two-time Brazilian Olympian Everton Lopes (3-0, 1 KOs) will be featured in an eight-round super lightweight bout against undefeated fighter Omar Tienda (13-0, 8 KOs) of Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico in an exciting match sure to test both fighters in their young careers. Also stepping through the ropes in the opening televised event, Los Angeles favorite Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (10-0, 9 KOs) will take on Erick “TJ” Orozco (5-1-2, 3 KOs), of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico in a six-round super featherweight bout.

Featured on the non-televised undercard, Los Angeles-based favorites, Rafael Gramajo (4-1-1, 2 KOs), Ivan “Striker” Delgado (6-0-1, 2 KOs), and Jonathan Navarro (1-0, 1 KOs) return to the LA FIGHT CLUB ring on Sept. 4. First, Rafael Gramajo is scheduled to face Monterey, Mexico’s Andres “Black Power” Balderas (3-3, 2 KOs) in a six-round super bantamweight fight, and Jesus Ivan Delgado will fight in a six-round super featherweight fight against an opponent soon-to-be-announced. Opening up the night in a four-round super lightweight bout, Jonathan Navarro will compete in his second professional fight of his career when he faces Santa Ana, Calif.’s Gibran Gutierrez who is making his professional debut.

LA FIGHT CLUB: De La Hoya vs. Ruiz, is a 10-round bout for the vacant WBC Youth Featherweight Title and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV broadcast will air live on Friday, September 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets, starting at $20 are available for purchase online at www.goldenboypromotions.com or by visiting the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page. For ticket information, email us at LAFightClub@goldenboypromotions.com.

The “Knockout Experience VIP Package” is also available for an additional $25 upgrade and includes VIP entrance, access to an exclusive lounge offering food and beverages for purchase; a meet and greet opportunity with fighters and celebrities attending the event, past guests have included Oscar De La Hoya, Kate Del Castillo, Mario Lopez, George Lopez, Lucas Matthysse, Randy Caballero and other stars have all made appearances in the past; an automatic entry into the LA FIGHT CLUB grand prize drawing, which can include but is not limited to: autograph gloves, picture in the ring, backstage access, tour of locker rooms, fighter ring walk, tickets to upcoming boxing events and additional merchandise and prizes.

The cousin of boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya, 21-year-old Diego De La Hoya has been doing an impressive job of carving out his own place in the fight game, with his fast hands, poise and power allowing him to defeat everyone who has faced him thus far. Already 3-0 in 2015 with impressive victories over title contender Manuel Roman at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in February, defeating Ramiro Robles in his first appearance at LA FIGHT CLUB in May and a quick follow up victory against Jose Estrella on the July 2 installment. Now the Mexicali native is ready for his first title fight on September 4 when he faces former world title contender Jesus Ruiz.

A former world title challenger who gave Leo Santa Cruz a spirited battle in their super bantamweight bout in January, Nogales’ Jesus Ruiz is a young veteran of the sport. Having already competed in 45 bouts despite being just 25, he is the owner of wins over Leonilo Miranda, Andres Gutierrez and Ruben Tamayo. Ruiz is the most experienced foe De La Hoya has ever faced, and he plans on being the first one to hand him a loss on Sept. 4.

Two-time Brazilian Olympic team member Everton Lopes was one of his country’s most decorated amateur fighters of all-time, and now he wants to bring a world title back home to Salvador, Brazil. On Feb. 27, the talented 26-year-old southpaw made his professional debut in a super lightweight bout against Evan Woolsey winning by unanimous decision. He shined at his debut at LA FIGHT CLUB defeating Robert Alexander Seyam on April 2 and triumphed over Marcelo Ezequiel Mesa in his first professional bout in his home country of Brazil on June 6. On September 4, Lopes will make his second appearance at LA FIGHT CLUB, eager to clench another win.

Making his U.S. professional debut, Omar Tienda of Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, will be looking to go home an undefeated fighter on Sept. 4. In his third fight of 2015, Tienda has recently faced Roman Mendez in March and Ivan Chavelas in April ending both fights quickly via technical knockout. Now, the super lightweight is will be looking to impress U.S. fight goers and add a third knockout to his resume to when he goes up the decorated Everton Lopes at LA FIGHT CLUB.

Rapidly becoming one of the local scene’s most popular fighters, Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez has an opportunity to start a new knockout streak against a hungry Tijuana southpaw in Orozco, who is unbeaten in six of his last seven bouts. A sixth-round stoppage of Julio Sarinana at the inaugural LA FIGHT CLUB forced him to rise from the canvas for the first time to win on March 6, and the fan favorite continued to dominate defeating Darryl Hayes by unanimous decision at the June edition. Now, Gonzalez is ready to please his fans in his third appearance in the Los Angeles series.

Erick “TJ” Orozco of Gudalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, will be looking for a victory when he faces Los Angeles’ favorite Christian Gonzalez on Sept. 4. After fighting in March against Ricardo Diaz and Samuel Garibaldi in August and coming up short after and undefeated streak from 2013-2014, Orozco will be hungry for victory in his third fight of 2015.

Born in Garden City, Kansas, and raised in Los Angeles, Rafael “El Alikin” Gramajo started boxing at the age of 11 in the same gym that saw the likes of Brandon Rios and Victor Ortiz. After an ambitious amateur career where he participated in around 100 fights, Gramajo decided to take his career to the next level, making his professional debut against Jimmy Small in April 2012. In 2014, Gramajo moved to Los Angeles to train out of the famed Westside Boxing Club under the Saucedo Brothers. Boasting two impressive wins at Fantasy Springs in 2015, Gramajo made his LA FIGHT CLUB debut on June 4 with an impressive win over Pablo Cupul. Gramajo will return to the Belasco Theater looking to impress the crowd once again as making his second appearance at the popular series.

Hailing from Monterey, Mexico, Andres “Black Power” Balderas is looking to make an impression in his second fight of 2015. Most recently the fighter faced Luis Rosario in June in his U.S. professional debut. Chasing the ‘American Dream’ Balderas is ready to prove he has what it takes to win in the sweet science when he faces the tough Rafael Gramajo on Sept. 4.

Unbeaten Ivan “Striker” Delgado will make his third LA FIGHT CLUB appearance in a six-round super featherweight bout against an opponent to-be-named. In the premiere event of LA FIGHT CLUB on March 6, Delgado made a standout appearance dominating Rocco Espinoza in all four-rounds, releasing relentless powerful punches to win the bout by unanimous decision. Since his professional debut in January 2014, Delgado has stayed local, building up his name and reputation on the Southern California boxing circuit most recently defeating Benjamin Vinson by technical knockout in the third round on the May 7 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB, and a win by unanimous decision against Angel Albelo at the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena on July 11.

Hailing from East Los Angeles, Jonathan Navarro is a boxing legacy who made an impression on his professional debut on the Aug. 6 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB defeating Andrew Lee Gomez via knockout in the first round. The nineteen-year-old, whose uncle Jose Navarro was a 2000 U.S. Olympian and a flyweight title challenger in his professional career, has a decorated amateur career winning gold in 15 tournaments, four of which were international while representing the U.S. on the national team. A gifted boxer who began his boxing career at seven-years-old, Navarro won his first Golden Gloves at nine years of age. Now the 19-year old is ready to create his own history when he competes in his second professional fight on Sept. 4.

Making his professional debut, Santa Ana, Calif. Gibran Guiterrez will be looking for victory on Sept. 4 when he faces boxing legacy Jonathan Navarro from East Los Angeles.

LA FIGHT CLUB is a monthly boxing series featured on the first Friday of each month, with upcoming shows on Oct. 2, Nov. 6, and Dec. 4. The series showcases the brightest stars in the sport and present these exciting matchups in a nightclub atmosphere with an original setup. The boxing ring is set on the main floor of the Belasco Theater with on-camera standing room for fans in front of the ring similar to a concert pit, as well as reserved balcony and floor seats. Los Angeles’ own DJ Ray of Big Boy’s Neighborhood spins music during the fights and fans are able to dance and mingle with the fighters when the venue converts into a night club, in a VIP experience not matched by any promoter in the industry.

Media interested in attending the September 4 installment of LA FIGHT CLUB must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are now closed. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

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

Oleksandr Cherviak (15-4-1, 5 KOs) is full of confidence as he prepares to travel to Nyköping, Sweden to challenge Erik Skoglund (22-0, 11 KOs) for the IBF Intercontinental Light Heavyweight title on September 19.

‘’I’m coming to Sweden to win,’’ exclaims Cherviak. ‘’I‘m going to spoil Erik’s celebrations and take the IBF Intercontinental belt home to the Ukraine!’’

From humble beginnings, Cherviak has gone on to challenge for multiple titles, establishing himself as one of the top names in the light heavyweight division. Ahead of his historic title fight with Skoglund, the 36 year-old Ukrainian shares his thoughts on the upcoming bout and his plans to derail the young Swede’s promising career.

Q: What do you think of your opponent Erik Skoglund?

‘’I respect all my opponents because I know what it takes to be a professional fighter. Erik is still very young but already experienced for his age. He is physically strong and he good boxing skills. Like me he also fights with courage and desire. He is hungry for victory like a real Viking.’’

Q: How would you describe your boxing style?

‘’I would describe my boxing style as unorthodox, awkward and aggressive. My strategy for every fight depends on my opponent. I can adapt my style. I can be a boxer, a slugger, a counter-puncher or a pressure fighter – whatever is required. I always try to break up my opponent’s tempo and rhythm, pull them out of their comfort zone and finally make them frustrated and beaten.’’

Q: This will be the first major title fight in Sweden for over 40 years. Are you looking forward to being a part of such a historic night of boxing?

‘’Yes, definitely. It will be great chance for me to be a part of Scandinavian boxing history and to enjoy the Viking atmosphere. I’m also fighting for my family. I have four sons and one daughter, and I want to motivate them to make a success of their lives.’’

Q: Are you confident you can beat Erik Skoglund in his hometown?

‘’Yes, I’m coming to Sweden to win. I‘m going to spoil Erik’s celebrations and take the IBF Intercontinental belt home to the Ukraine. Maybe Erik and his team see me as another stepping-stone in his career, but they are wrong. This is going to be the toughest fight of his life!’’

Q: What type of fight can the Swedish fans expect on September 19?

‘’They can expect a classic clash with youth, energy and aspiration against experience, awkwardness and intricacy. I’m going to taste his capabilities in the ring and then surprise him with my unorthodox style of boxing and some home-prepared tricks.’’

Q: How have you been preparing for this fight?

‘’I‘m training in my native Kirovograd-City under the guidance of my coach Valeriy Chudin. He is not just a trainer but good friend of mine. We understand each other very well. We are the real deal!’’

Q: What will be the next step for you if you are able to beat Erik Skoglund on September 19?

‘’Every ambitious fighter wants to fight for World titles and I’m no different. Sergey Kovalev is top of my list. He has three World titles and definitely is the best boxer in the division right now. I want to test his iron fists and check myself against his huge might. Second is Adonis Stevenson the WBC belt-holder. He is second after Kovalev in the division and great puncher too. Next is Jurgen Braehmer. I want to fight him because of his WBA regular World title and his spectacular, open style, which is unusual for German boxers.’’

Tickets for Erik Skoglund’s IBF Intercontinental Light Heavyweight Championship fight with Oleskandr Cherviak are available via biljettforum.se.

By Bart Barry-

Saturday on ESPN in a PBC main event that happened at Staples Center, Leo Santa Cruz decisioned Abner Mares. The fight was heavy with volume and light with quality, as the fighters winged blows in a blur of shoulder striking, head clashing and guard peppering. It was not a great fight but easily the PBC’s greatest fight.

There was an immediate association that happened in my mind as the bell rang on Saturday’s main event – an association strained through the Battle of Los Angeles idiocy and fact nether Mares nor Santa Cruz is very good – and it was one of small Mexican pugilists plying their wares before a gritty, blue-collar-Mexican crowd in Southern California. Where did I feel this before? It was ringside in Carson, Calif., 7 1/2 years ago, when Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez made the third fight of what might be called a “natural trilogy” the way a natural hat trick happens when a hockey player scores three goals in a row without another puck from another stick going in the net; Vazquez and Marquez fought each other three times in 12 months, finishing their trilogy with their very best fight. Saturday’s match did not suffer the comparison gladly.

There is something second-rate about our sport now. There has not been a better or more justifiably anticipated main event broadcasted by the PBC yet, and yet. From the opening bell of a fight that felt more like 114-114 than 117-111, the scorecard two judges and the PBC’s Teddy Atlas happened to have, Mares demonstrated he was the fighter of greater range, while Santa Cruz proved he was taller. That was it, really. Santa Cruz, the telecast told our lying eyes, was much busier and more accurate, and yet it did not feel that way. Perhaps it was expectations rendering us victims yet again.

Years ago, if any PBC viewer remembers, Santa Cruz was our next Antonio Margarito. What Shane Mosley discovered about Margarito no one before him quite had was this: Margarito could not fight going backwards and wasn’t particularly astute, either, with an opponent on his chest, in his kitchen, smoking, as the late Joe Frazier perfectly had it, where he lived. Margarito had a crossover move, bringing his right foot along with his right hand along with his right foot, closing his opponent’s front shoulder, then opening him up with a fully leveraged left hook. One who waits for Santa Cruz to perform a similar feat of footwork will grow old with anticipation.

Santa Cruz is tall and busy. He might learn to do something with his right uppercut – a few more of those Saturday might’ve shortened Mares’ evening considerably – but he has not yet, and he has not improved at all, much as the PBC telecast assured us he has. Atlas, despite his dogged repetition of every insight six and seven times, detected immediately the bizarre habit Santa Cruz has of shaking his right hand like it’s broken. He telegraphs punches, somewhat, but expresses anxiety more so. It’s the sort of habit a fighter can form in the boredom of padwork or bagwork, and it’s not Santa Cruz’s fault. But where the hell are his trainers? Do they think it’s charming or marketable or a habit they might monetize like Canelo’s fiery coif?

Atlas’ insistence Mares should be doing something with Santa Cruz’s tell, though, was a bit misplaced. Santa Cruz still had his twitching hand in a position from which he might block a left hook, especially one hurled by a fighter having to cross as much terrain to his chin as Mares did. Mares used Santa Cruz’s nervousness properly; don’t get hit with the hand he’s shaking at me.

Mares fought a better match, altogether, than two judges believed. That Santa Cruz walked to the ring accompanied by the son of manager Al Haymon’s henchbuffoon indicated Mares would need a knockout to win, and Mares, to his credit, went looking for one, insisting from the opening second of the match Santa Cruz was not in his class as a fighter. That was true, yes, but Mares, at 126 pounds, is eight pounds from his best division, and he didn’t have a punch, left hook or righthand counter, that much as dented Santa Cruz.

Just because Mares can no longer make bantamweight by no means makes him a featherweight. But Mares was the gamer man Saturday. He fired back when fired upon, he reacted better to being struck, he did not retreat unless strategy, as opposed to doubt, mandated it. Mares was much better at 118, too, than Santa Cruz is at 126.

Which was still not that good. Mares won a close but fair decision over Vic Darchinyan three years after Nonito Donaire iced the Armenian and a year after Joseph Agbeko decisioned him. Darchinyan, past his prime and a weightclass or two too heavy, nevertheless gave Mares a stern test. Mares then sneaked past Agbeko, fouling him repeatedly, and when he won their rematch, and Showtime needed a house fighter from Golden Boy Promotions to anoint, Mares was launched as a shooting duper superstar. Which he was not fit to be. Soon enough, an ancient Jhonny Gonzalez put the lie to the Mares machine, and if Gonzalez’s left hand didn’t do it, Mares’ shameless avoidance of a rematch with the belligerent old Mexican sure has.

People boo Mares, and they’re right to, but thinking lowly of Mares does not, through some law of transitivity, consign one to opining highly of Santa Cruz. That’s the bad news. The worse news is, able now to abscond with a reputation, if not a particularly meaningful piece of WBA hardware, Santa Cruz has no incentive to do anything more than make semiannual PBC defenses of his new title, his skillset deteriorating steadily until the day Al Haymon signs Guillermo Rigondeaux and harsh reality, wearing dark Cuban knuckles, raps upon Santa Cruz’s hardly won Los Angeles door.

Bart Barry can be reached via Twitter @bartbarry