Vito Gasparyan 153.9 – Brandon Adams 155.5
(Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight semifinals)

Stanyslav Skorokhod 153.8 – John Thompson 154.8
(Boxcino 2015 Jr. Middleweight semifinals)

Razvan Cojanu 255.7 – Donovan Dennis 224.2
(Boxcino 2015 Heavyweight semifinals)

Lenroy Thomas 235.9 – Andrey Fedosov 220.3
(Boxcino 2015 Heavyweight semifinals)

Greg Jackson 147.4 – Curtis Morton 145.9
Ed “Tex” Fountain 239.4 – Jon Bolden 230
Eric Newell 266 – Brandon Spencer 298.8
Ricky Nuno 155 – Pat Kehoe 154.2
Mike Liberto 200.4 – Darnell Hayes 198.6

Promoter: Banner Promotions
Venue: Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem
1st Bell: 7 PM ET
Television: ESPN 2 9 PM ET

Photos: Emily Harney / Banner Promotions

This event starts at 7pm. Ticket prices are $100, $75, $50. Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com, 1-800-745-3000 and at the box office at the Sands Bethlehem Event Center.

HOUSTON, TX (April 9, 2015) – Gary Shaw Productions undefeated heavyweight contender, Bryant “By-By” Jennings (19-0, 10 KOs), is entering the final weeks of training camp in preparation for his upcoming battle with Wladimir Klitschko (63-3, 53 KOs). Jennings, who hails from Philadelphia, is looking to end Klitschko’s reign on the heavyweight division.

Klitschko vs. Jennings, a 12-round bout for Wladimir’s WBA, WBO, IBF and IBO World heavyweight titles, will take place at “The World’s Most Famous Arena”, Madison Square Garden, on April 25, 2015. The event will be televised Live on HBO World Championship Boxing® beginning at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT in the United States and RTL in Germany.

On training in Houston, Texas…
“It’s really nice to get away from home and all the distractions that come with training in Philly. I’m able to focus on nothing but boxing out here in Houston. I got my whole team out here and were grinding away.”

On his upcoming matchup with Wladimir Klitschko…
“This is the top of the mountain when it comes to heavyweight boxing. You can’t get any higher then fighting Klitschko. With that being said, I’m ready to end Klitschko’s reign as heavyweight champion. He’s been defeated before and he can be defeated again. I’m confident I have the athleticism and skills to come out on top and bring those belts back home to America.”

On fighting at Madison Square Garden….
“Everyone knows The Garden is filled with deep roots in boxing history. I’m looking to make my own history with a victory on April 25th. This will be my third consecutive fight there and I feel my fan base has grown with each outing. I’m know Philly will be representing and I’m excited about that. I’m counting down the days and I’m very grateful to my promoters, Gary Shaw, Antonio Leonard, as well as my manager James Prince for making this fight a reality.”

On the possibility of becoming the next great American heavyweight champion…
“A victory against Klitschko will certainly bring back glory to the American heavyweight. Klitschko has reigned supreme for so many years, so it will be a huge accomplishment to bring home the titles. Dethroning Klitschko will open up many doors for my career and I see myself relishing in the moment.”

Presented by K2 Promotions and Klitschko Management Group in association with Gary Shaw Productions, tickets priced at $1000, $600, $300, $200 and $100 can be purchased through the Madison Square Garden Box Office, www.TheGarden.com and www.Ticketmaster.com.

NEW YORK (April 9, 2015) – Brooklyn-native, unbeaten Frank “Notorious” Galarza weighed-in at 154 pounds and Belgium’s Sheldon “The Closer” Moore measured 153 ¼ pounds during Thursday’s official weigh-in for the main event of this Friday’s ShoBox: The New Generation, live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT, delayed on the West Coast).

Galarza (16-0-2, 10 KOs), regarded by many as “The Brooklyn Rocky,” and Moore (13-2-1, 9 KOs) will square off in the eight-round super welterweight headliner of the televised tripleheader from the Aviator Sports and Events Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.

Undefeated power-punching middleweight Ievgen “The Ukrainian Lion” Khytrov (9-0, 9 KOs) tipped the scales at 161 ½ pounds and fellow unbeaten Aaron “Heavy Metal” Coley (9-0-1, 6 KOs), of Hayward, Calif., measured 160 ½ pounds for their eight-round middleweight bout.

In the opening fight of the telecast, blue-chip super middleweight prospect Sergiy “The Technician” Derevyanchenko (4-0, 3 KOs/World Series of Boxing: 23-1, 7 KOs) will take on once-beaten Alan “Amenaza/Threat” Campa (13-1, 1 NC, 9 KOs) in an eight-round super middleweight match. Derevyanchenko, of Ukraine and now training in Brooklyn with Khytrov, measured 163 ¼ pounds while Mexico’s Campa weighed-in at 165 pounds.

Tickets for the event, promoted by DiBella Entertainment in association with Fight Promotions Inc. and New Legend Boxing are on sale and priced at $100, $70 and $35. Tickets can be purchased by calling DiBella Entertainment at (212) 947-2577. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. ET, with the first bout scheduled for 6:45 p.m. ET.

Here’s what the fighters had to say prior to Thursday’s weigh-in:

GALARZA:
“We had some great sparring with guys like Daniel Jacobs, Sadam Ali, Khytrov. They always give me top tough work. That’s top competition right there. Fighting guys like that builds my confidence. If I can hang in there with them then I can hang with anyone. They’re going to help to bring me to another level. I feed off their energy.

“Moore is an aggressive fighter, but I’m a come-forward guy, too. I can be aggressive, but smart aggressive. Not just aggressive to punch and throw punches wildly. It’s more being smart, using my defense, my offense and countering when he makes mistakes.

“I try not to think about fighting in the main event in Brooklyn, but it helps and it definitely motivates me. I mean, it doesn’t get any better than that – fighting in my home in the main event.

“It’s my backyard, so I have to put on a show. It doesn’t give me jitters because I’ve fought in my home before, but the main event is different. I just need to do my job.

“For me, it’s will and skill. I bring my skill level to the next level. How bad do I want it? Am I going to perform well enough to move to the next level and face those top contenders?

“I want to face the top prospects so I can earn a spot as a contender. But I need to get through this guy first.”

MOORE:
“The main reason why I came all the way to the United States is because here is where boxing is at its best. I’m really excited about this opportunity. Being on SHOWTIME as a main event is huge for me.

“It’s not going to be easy, I’m fighting a guy from Brooklyn in Brooklyn in his back yard. But I’ve been in this situation before, I’ve fought abroad many times before and I’m not intimidated. It’s another day at the office for me.

“This is it for me, there’s no turning back. I have to win. I just don’t see myself losing tomorrow.

“I’ve seen a couple Galarza videos on YouTube. He was more of a brawler at the beginning of his career. Now, he’s a more disciplined boxer. That can backfire sometimes, something to watch out.

“You’ll see fireworks and excitement. I’m not going to look for the knockout. I think it’s a bad strategy to do that. If it comes, it comes. I’ll be looking to win, no matter what. This is a very big fight for me, so it’ll be all about winning, impressing and being at my best.”

KHYTROV
“The atmosphere training in Big Bear was amazing. It was one of the best training camps I’ve had. I’ve never been through a camp in the amateurs like that.

“I had a chance to meet Gennady (Golovkin) in Big Bear and we spoke and actually became pretty close. We talked about training regime, stuff athletes talk about. I loved it there.

“The adjustment from amateurs to pros has been fine. The only difference is handling the different rounds and realizing that you have to pace yourself for these eight, 10, 12 round fights.

“The best time to knock a guy out is in the first two rounds when they aren’t warmed up yet. I tried against (Jorge) Melendez but I couldn’t get him out. I just realized I needed to pace myself for the other six rounds and work the body. It was nice to get those rounds and experience against a tough fighter.

“I know he (Coley) is a pretty hard-hitting southpaw. I assume that he won’t come forward, but maybe he’ll surprise me. He has a few knockouts, but I’m going to watch him, learn and adapt.

“I faced southpaws in the amateurs. His style won’t give me any issues. I could even switch to a southpaw stance if I need to.

“Personally, health allowing, I think I should be a contender by the end of 2015. But I put all my trust into my team. They know best. My job is just to train and prepare for everything they put in front of me.

“Yes, 100 percent I’d like to face Gennady. To be the best you have to fight the best. And right now I consider him to be the best 160 pound fighter in the world.”

COLEY:
“Fighting on TV for me is a big deal. When I was little, my father used to throw fight parties to watch big fights and tomorrow he’s throwing one for me. That alone makes me so proud. I’ll have my own viewing party. I’m fighting on national television, on SHOWTIME. That’s such of big deal for me. This is my breakout. This is the sign I’m made it.

“I stay in shape all year round, but for the past two months I’ve been taking it to the extreme. Training hard, sparring even harder.

“I’ve been working very hard. I’ve sparred with world champions and I’ve been doing well. I think this is my time to step up and show everybody how good I am.

“I’m predicting there will be a stoppage in the later rounds.”

DEREVYANCHENKO:
“The competition I faced in the WSB was, for the most part, the best fighters in the world. So far, the guys I’ve faced in the pros don’t have that resume, that skill level. So I think I’ve fought in more than just four pro fights.

“I’m working hard in the gym to make the transition from amateur to pro. I’m taking it step-by-step. I don’t want to jump the gun or make a mistake too fast. I’m looking forward to increasing my level of opposition gradually.

“I’ve seen some of his (Campa) fights. In some fights he boxes different than in other fights. We’ll see what he does in the ring and adjust accordingly. But I don’t think he can bring anything that I haven’t seen before. But he’s a Mexican fighter so we know he won’t give up.

“I’m going to show what I’m worth. I’ve been preparing for this my whole life. Now is my chance to build my fan base and show what I can do in the ring.”

CAMPA:
“This is my first fight in the U.S., and I’m planning to take full advantage of this opportunity.

“My training was intense, a lot of running, especially in the mountains. I worked on my conditioning and my speed. I’m at the best shape I’ve ever been.

“When I found out about my opponent, I watched video on him and I know I’m better than him. I think my main advantages are age and speed. My opponent is 29, I’m 23. I’m younger and quicker and I’m not about to make it easy for him.

“I’m going to read him in the early rounds and, if I feel he’s not hurting me, I’ll go the distance.

“This fight is a huge step-up for me. I see it as key fight. I feel it might be a make or break for me. We’ll see, I might get a chance to deliver a knockout and that might spark some attention in the boxing world.”

# # #

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 59 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Omar Figueroa, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

BROOKLYN (April 9, 2015) – As Saturday’s fight night rapidly approaches, fighters competing on Saturday’s Premier Boxing Champions on NBC night of fights held a final press conference Thursday at the Edison Ballroom in New York City.

PBC on NBC main event bouts at Barclays Center feature undefeated superstar Danny “Swift” Garcia (29-0, 17 KOs) facing Lamont Peterson (33-2-1, 17 KOs) and the middleweight championship bout between “Irish” Andy Lee (34-2, 24 KOs) and undefeated Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin (31-0, 22 KOs). The second installment of PBC on NBC begins at 8:30 p.m. ET.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $300, $200, $150, $100, $80 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now.Tickets are available at www.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.com and at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. For group tickets, please call 800-GROUP-BK.

Here are what the fighters had to say at Thursday’s press conference:

DANNY GARCIA

“I’ve been working on fighting hard, but also smart. I’m going to go in there and dictate the pace and I’m always looking for the knockout. If I can’t knock him out then I’ll be ready to go 12 rounds.

“It’s always hard making weight, but I’m on weight now. Right now I’m growing into my prime and my body is getting bigger and it’ll be time soon for me to go up in weight.

“I’m looking at this as a very big fight. So I’m going in there mentally and physically ready. He’s coming to fight and I’m coming to fight. Saturday is going to be about who can make the right adjustments.

“I love Brooklyn. This is my fourth fight here and I’ve heard that the tickets for this fight are selling faster than any other fight they’ve held here. So I must be doing something right in Brooklyn. The atmosphere is great at Barclays Center.

“I’ve always felt that I’m one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. I’ve won a lot of big fights with a lot of great fighters, and my goal is just continue winning one fight at a time.”

LAMONT PETERSON

“Danny’s talk makes no difference to me. I think I’m even more confident than him and I’ll get the victory Saturday night and that will be that.

“The stakes are high. This can definitely push me to the next level in this boxing game. I’ve been at the top for a while but there’s a difference between being at the top and being an elite fighter. I think this will solidify me as an elite fighter.

“I looked at a few of Danny’s fights but nothing really stood out to me. I know Danny is a counterpuncher, that’s what he does. We’ve come up with a game plan to stop that.

“I’m a different person than the other guys Danny has fought. I’m a different person with a different style. I trust myself to make adjustments in the ring.

“This fight will be different than either of our fights with Matthysse. It’s two different fights and styles make fights. There will be different results. I had to prepare for Danny Garcia and Danny Garcia had to prepare for me.

“There’s no pressure fighting on this big card, but I know what it brings. This brings more exposure and I want to use that exposure in the right way. I know I’m looked up to as a role model and I just want to use this exposure.

“This will put a big spotlight on boxing and I’m happy to be a part of it.

“I’m ready to fight, I’ve prepared well and I’m ready to put on a show.”

ANDY LEE

“I’m eager to fight and ready to go. I’m feeling very dangerous right now.

“My ring generalship is one thing, but overall I feel like I have a good idea of what I want to do in the ring. Peter has an idea too, but it’s more moment to moment for him, which can be good as well, when you improvise. I’m more of a guy who will set you up and work to a plan.

“Coming back and winning a fight really strengthens your resolve. You know in your mind that at any time, you have a chance of winning. I never plan to be behind but it happens. This time I plan to lead from the front.

“Peter is offensive, which leaves openings. He might be cautious for a while because both of us know that we might pay the price of being offensive. Eventually we’ll exchange and it will be explosive one way of the other.

“I’m a southpaw puncher who can box and I’ve never been in a dull fight. I have a ‘never say die’ attitude and I’m not someone who is just going to go out there and play it safe. I’ll risk it all to win.

“My confidence is very high. I’m the champion of the world and there’s no higher station than that in boxing. I’m the champion and he’ll have to come and take my title.”

PETER QUILLIN

“Everyone tune in on April 11 because we’re going to do more than just try to take that belt, we’re going to take that belt because that’s what we do.

“Andy is the champion of the world but this is the second time I’ve been the challenger to a world champion. I’ve been here before. I know he’s a newly crowned champion so I have nothing bad to say about him.

“Andy’s greatest strength is that he lost twice and was able to come back and make himself look very good.

“This is a totally different caliber fight than either of us has had. I’m not any of those fighters that he’s faced. I can’t go in there and try to fight like a Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.

“I’m only concerned about working hard, which I’ve done every day leading up to this fight. So I have no concerns at all.

“I’m motivated period. My heart is built on motivation in all things. Talking to media, being on NBC, fighting for the belt and being a positive person. I’m thankful that every day I can put out a positive story about myself.”

LOU DIBELLA, President of DiBella Entertainment

“We have a great night of boxing from beginning to end, you will be hearing a lot more from these young fighters.

“If you want to see everything, get there to Barclays Center at 5 p.m.

“We’re very thrilled that this is going to be televised in primetime on NBC. PBC on NBC. It has a nice ring to it.

“The first main event of the evening features Andy Lee, middleweight champion and the fighting pride of Limerick. He is a warrior, he’s at the most confident point of his career and he’s going to need to be because he’s fighting an undefeated champion.

“Peter Quillin makes Brooklyn his home. It’s his third fight at Barclays Center and he has a perfect record of 31-0. He’s going to try to take Andy’s belt, but it won’t be easy.

“The bout that will close the show is one of the most eagerly anticipated bouts in all of boxing. Lamont Peterson is noted for being one of the most technically sound boxers in the game and he has an outstanding record to a back it up.

“Danny Garcia really embodies what it means to be a Philadelphia fighter. He’s a tough guy with an undefeated record. He’s going to look to keep that record perfect against Lamont Peterson.”

JON MILLER, President, Programming, NBC Sports & NBCSN

“On behalf of NBC Sports we’re thrilled to be a part of this and to be in our own backyard. We couldn’t pick a better venue than Barclays Center. The card put together is spectacular. There are great fights once again and we’re excited about the progress that this new property has taken for us.

“I think one of the most unique things about this Saturday night is that it’s going to make history in television because three of the most venerable and outstanding sports television personalities will be working together for the first time as Al Michaels will be our host, Marv Albert will be doing play-by-play and for the first time ever they will be joined by Bob Costas.

“These three iconic figures have worked Olympics and Super Bowls but it’s the first time they’ve ever worked together on one event and that is a tribute to what the entire has put together in delivering this great card.”

BRETT YORMARK, CEO of Barclays Center

“This Saturday marks a historic moment for Barclays Center as we host our 11th professional boxing event and our first Premier Boxing Champions event.

“When you combine the talent in the ring, the production of the show and the iconic broadcasting team of Al Michael, Bob Costas and Marv Albert plus boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard this will be one of the best fight nights that New York has hosted in decades.

“Signifying the magnitude of the event, tickets have sold faster than at any other boxing show Barclays Center has hosted.

“At Barclays Center, we have not only served as a launch pad for many local boxers’ careers, but have relished in the role of becoming the home for Champions.”

# # #

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.nbcsports.com/boxing,www.BarclaysCenter.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @DannySwift, @KingPete26, @KidChocolate, @AndyLeeBoxing, @RealLuisCollazo, @NBCSports and @BarclaysCenter and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/NBCSports and www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. Follow the conversation using #PremierBoxingChampions and #BKBoxing.

THE FIGHT GAME WITH JIM LAMPLEY returns with a new edition TUESDAY, APRIL 14 (11:00-11:30 pm. ET/PT), exclusively on HBO. Hosted by the four-time Sports Emmy® winner, who has been the host of HBO Boxing since joining the network in 1988, the show is a provocative, engaging and informative experience that delves into intriguing storylines, newsmakers and issues that are top-of-mind in boxing.

Other HBO playdates: April 14 (5:30 a.m.), 18 (12:45 a.m.), 19 (12:45 p.m.), 21 (10:15 a.m.), 22 (9:45 p.m.), 23 (11:00 a.m., 3:35 a.m.), 25 (10:15 a.m.) and 29 (4:00 p.m.)

HBO2 playdates: April 16 (8:30 p.m.), 20 (4:30 p.m.), 24 (3:30 p.m.), 26 (3:00 p.m.), 27 (1:45 a.m.), and 29 (11:30 p.m.), and May 1 (10:15 a.m.) and 3 (9:30 a.m.)

HBO On Demand® availability begins April 16. The show will also be available on HBO GO®.

On this edition of THE FIGHT GAME, commentators Max Kellerman and Michelle Beadle join Lampley for a look at the biggest news stories and personalities in the sport. This month, Beadle reports from Las Vegas on the big business generated by the May 2 Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquiao mega-fight; the show marks the 30th anniversary of Hagler-Hearns, one of the sport’s most spectacular battles; Lampley looks at how the history of American heavyweight champions shapes the April 25 Wladimir Klitschko-Bryant Jennings bout; and he presents an all-new edition of the Gatti list.

Immediately following the program, fight fans can log on to hbo.com for an exclusive overtime segment hosted by Lampley.

Greg Cohen of Greg Cohen Promotions, in association with David Schuster’s Winner Take All Productions, proudly announces the signing of Brooklyn via Puerto Rico’s fighting Serrano sisters, Amanda and Cindy to exclusive promotional contracts.

The heavily decorated family duo made boxing history in 2013 when both sisters held Universal Boxing Federation titles in the same super featherweight division.

26-year-old southpaw Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (23-1-1, 18 KOs) is a former Staten Island amateur champion, New York City Golden Gloves amateur champion, and Empire State amateur champion. She turned professional in 2009 and has already won the NABF Featherweight, Universal Boxing Federation World Featherweight, Women’s International Boxing Association World Featherweight, IBF World Super Featherweight, Universal Boxing Federation Inter­Continental Super Featherweight, and WBO World Lightweight Championships.

Older sister, Cindy “Checkmate” Serrano (22-5-3, 10 KOs), fought to a draw for the Women’s International Boxing Association World Featherweight Championship in 2005 and has gone on to win the Women’s International Boxing Association International Lightweight, Universal Boxing Federation Super Featherweight International and Universal Boxing Federation Super Featherweight World Championships. The 32-year-old orthodox fighter turned professional in 2003 after winning the 2003 Empire State Games Tournament as an amateur. Cindy Serrano was unbeaten in her first 16 bouts as a professional.

Both Serrano sisters are currently ranked in world’s top ten at super featherweight: Amanda is #1 and Cindy is #8 and both work with dedicated, no nonsense trainer Jordan Maldonado, who has been a key catalyst to their success.

“These are two of the best female fighters to ever lace up the gloves,” said a happy Greg Cohen. “I am honored to be working with them and we’ve got big plans for them. They are a history-making fighting family and both sisters still have plenty of fight left in them. This is a huge acquisition for my company.”

“I’ve been working with Jordan and the girls for years. These are two of the toughest women in pro boxing today. I am very excited to see them involved with GCP!” said David Schuster.

###

About Greg Cohen Promotions

One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

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

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

In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman (50-8-2, 41 KOs); and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney (74-7-3, 45 KOs).

Current world-rated contenders in the GCP roster include Arash Usmanee, universally recognized as a top-10 super featherweight; former WBA International Middleweight Champion and world-rated middleweight contender Jarrod Fletcher; top-rated featherweight Joel Brunker; cruiserweight Lateef Kayode; Canadian lightweight and TV action hero Tony Luis, and WBA and five-time Irish National Amateur Champion, Dennis Hogan; and Rising Welterweight sensation Cecil McCalla.

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

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (April 9, 2015) – A talent-laden preliminary card for May’s “Bellator MMA: Halsey vs. Grove” event is starting to take shape with the addition of welterweights Jesse Juarez (22-9) vs. Ricky “The Sniper” Rainey (10-3), bantamweights Joe “The Juggernaut” Taimanglo (20-6-1) vs. Antonio “Tigre” Duarte (18-5) and featherweight Jordan “Pretty Boy” Parsons (10-1) vs. Julio Cesar “Morceguinho” Neves Jr. (30-0).

The new additions complement the four-bout main card for “Bellator MMA: Halsey vs. Grove,” which includes undefeated Bellator MMA World Middleweight Champion Brandon “Bull” Halsey (8-0) against towering Hawaiian scrapper Kendall “Da Spyder” Grove (21-14), former Bellator MMA World Champion Eduardo “Dudu” Dantas (16-4) vs. Mike “The Marine” Richman (18-5), light heavyweights Virgil “Rezdog” Zwicker (13-4-1) vs. “Razor” Razak Al-Hassan (12-4) and welterweights Fernando “The Menifee Maniac” Gonzalez (23-13) vs. “Curtious” Curtis Millander (7-1).

“Bellator: Halsey vs. Grove” takes place on Friday, May 15, at Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula, Calif. The night’s main card airs live on Spike TV at 9 p.m. ET (6 p.m. PT local time), while preliminary bouts stream on Spike.com.

Tickets for “Bellator: Halsey vs. Grove,” which start at just $50, are currently on sale at Pechanga.com and the Pechanga Resort & Casino box office.

Doors for “Bellator: Halsey vs. Grove” open at 3:30 p.m. PT local time, and the first contest takes place 30 minutes later. Additional bouts will be announced shortly.

Juarez, of Torrance, Calif., is a seven-time Bellator MMA veteran whose days with the company date back to the promotion’s second show. The 33-year-old has been fighting professionally since 2006 but is currently enjoying one of the best runs of his career at 5-1 in his past six appearances, a run that includes Bellator MMA wins over Ron Keslar, Joe Williams and Jordan Smith.

Rainey, of Gastonia, N.C., fights for the fourth time under the Bellator MMA banner. All three of Rainey’s Bellator MMA fights have ended in the first round, as he’s bracketed TKO wins over Johnny Cisneros and Andy Murad around a loss to top contender Michael “Venom” Page. Seven of Rainey’s 10 career wins have come by finish, including six by knockout.

A five-time Bellator MMA veteran, Taimanglo has quickly established himself as one of Guam’s top fighting exports. A scrappy 30-year-old, Taimanglo never fails to entertain. He fought most recently in September, scoring a decision win over Michael Parker.

Fighting professionally since 2006, Duarte hails from Tijuana, Mexico. He makes his Bellator MMA debut on the strength of back-to-back submission wins over Marco Beristain and Ed West. Fifteen of Duarte’s 18 career wins come by way of stoppage, including 11 by tapout.

The 24-year-old Parsons, of Fargo, N.D., is a member of California’s famed Alliance MMA. Fighting professionally, Parsons has established himself as one of the top prospects in the world after winning 10 of his first 11 professional fights, including three by knockout and two by submission. Parsons made his Bellator MMA debut in April 2014, scoring a knockout win over Tim Bazer just four seconds into the second round.

Brazil’s Neves Jr. has compiled an incredible career mark of 30-0 despite being just 20 years old. Competing professionally since 2011, when he was just 17 years old, Neves Jr. already owns a pair of Bellator MMA victories by TKO, as he downed Poppies Martinez in the first round of a September 2014 matchup and finished Josh Arocho in the second round of an April 2014 contest.

“Bellator: Halsey vs. Grove” – Friday, May 15, Pechanga Resort & Casino, Temecula, Calif.

Main Card (9 p.m. ET)

Bellator Middleweight Title Fight: Champ Brandon Halsey (8-0) vs. Kendall Grove (21-14)
Bellator Featured Bantamweight Fight: Eduardo Dantas (16-4) vs. Mike Richman (18-5)
Bellator Featured Light Heavyweight Fight: Virgil Zwicker (13-4-1) vs. Razak Al-Hassan (12-4)
Bellator Featured Welterweight Fight: Fernando Gonzalez (23-13) vs. Curtis Millender (7-1)

Preliminary Card (7 p.m. ET)

Bellator Welterweight Prelim Fight: Jesse Juarez (22-9) vs. Ricky Rainey (10-3)
Bellator Bantamweight Prelim Fight: Joe Taimanglo (20-6-1) vs. Antonio Duarte (18-5)
Bellator Featherweight Prelim Fight: Jordan Parsons (10-1) vs. Julio Cesar Neves Jr. (30-0)

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 400 million homes worldwide in over 120 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 Spike TV:
Spike TV 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 TV’s Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike TV’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.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, WBA Lightweight champion Richar Abril will not fight Englishman Derry Matthews on April 18 in the United Kingdom.

“We have been made aware of Abril’s withdrawal and are in discussions with the World Boxing Association and representatives of Richar Abril as to the current position of the world title as this is the second time he has withdrawn from this fight with less than two weeks before fight night,” Warren’s Queensberry Promotions said in a statement. “We expect to hear from the WBA shortly and will make an announcement through this office. However, we fully expect Mathews to contest a version of the WBA world championship on Saturday, April 18.”

On April 15, 1985, when Marvelous Marvin Hagler battled Tommy Hearns in their epic match, Al Bernstein was there to announce the fight. Thirty years later, on May 2, 2015, Al Bernstein will, again be ringside to announce the Floyd Mayweather-Manny Pacquaio mega fight. In between those two great events Al has fashioned an announcing career that earned him a long list of accolades and landed him in The International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Bernstein is the bridge to these two major events in boxing history. He said: “As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Hagler-Hearns and look back at what those two great athletes created, it’s also exciting to look forward to another milestone in the sport’s rich history. To be a part of both those events is and honor and responsibility that I don’t take lightly. In 1985 I was in the first part of my career filled with excitement to have such an important assignment—now 30 years later, with all the big fights I’ve done, I am just as excited to be ringside. The atmosphere at the Caesar’s Palace outdoor arena 30 years ago was electric. It was a night I will never forget.That same intensity will be felt at the MGM Grand Garden Arena when Floyd and Manny do battle. I can’t wait to be ringside and help chronicle that event.”

In his book, “30 Years, 30 Undeniable Truths About Boxing, Sports and TV”, Al details many of the colorful events and personalities surrounding the Hagler-Hearns mega fight.

The 10-round main event for the debut of “Championship Boxing on CBS Sports Network” between Ireland’s WBA #12- and IBF #11-rated “Hurricane” Dennis Hogan and Tyrone “Young Gun” Brunson, has been upgraded to a contest for the World Boxing Association’s NABA-US Super Welterweight Championship.

Presented by Greg Cohen Promotions in association with Adam Wilcock’s Fight Card Promotions and produced by David Schuster’s Winner Take All Productions, Hogan vs. Brunson will top a night of world-class boxing broadcast live on CBS Sports Network from the Grand Casino Hinckley in Hinckley, Minnesota.

In the 10-round televised co-feature, Canada’s world rated and fast-rising lightweight star Tony “Lightning” Luis (19-2, 7 KOs) will have his first fight since winning the WBC Continental Americas Championship. He will face Memphis, Tennessee, veteran Ira Terry (26-13, 16 KOs).

In the eight-round televised opener, undefeated Saint Paul, Minnesota, middleweight Rob “Bravo” Brant (14-0, 8 KOs) will face Miami via Colombia’s Dionisio “Mister Nocaut” Miranda (22-10-2, 19 KOs).

Tickets for “Championship Boxing on CBS Sports Network” start at $35 and can be purchased at the Grand Casino Hinckley Box Office from 8 am to 10 pm (1-800-GRAND21) or at all Ticketmaster outlets, or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

The live broadcast of “Championship Boxing on CBS Sports Network” will begin at 10:00 PM, ET. On fight night, the doors will open at 6 pm and the action starts at 7 pm. The Grand Casino Hinckley is located at 777 Lady Luck Drive in Hinckley, Minnesota. For more information, visit www.grandcasinomn.com or call 800-472-6321.

###

About Greg Cohen Promotions

One of boxing’s premier promotional outfits, Greg Cohen Promotions (GCP) is a well-respected name for staging world-class professional boxing events and promoting elite professional fighters throughout the world.

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

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

In addition to Trout, Greg Cohen Promotions has worked with established names such as former unified and two-time heavyweight champion Hasim “The Rock” Rahman (50-8-2, 41 KOs); and all-time-great multiple-weight class world champion James “Lights Out” Toney (74-7-3, 45 KOs).

Current world-rated contenders in the GCP roster include Arash Usmanee, universally recognized as a top-10 super featherweight; former WBA International Middleweight Champion and world-rated middleweight contender Jarrod Fletcher; top-rated featherweight Joel Brunker; cruiserweight Lateef Kayode; Canadian lightweight and TV action hero Tony Luis, and WBA and five-time Irish National Amateur Champion, Dennis Hogan; and Rising Welterweight sensation Cecil McCalla.

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

Pennsauken, NJ (April 9, 2015)–On Saturday night, April 18 at the GPG Event Center (Formerly the Woodbine Inn) in Pennsauken, New Jersey. In the main event, heavyweight contender Chazz Witherpsoon will be in action when he takes on Galen Brown in a bout scheduled for 10-rounds.

The show is promoted by Witherspoon’s Silver Spoon Promotions.

Witherspoon (32-3, 24 KO’s) of nearby Paulsboro, New Jersey established himself as one of the top American Heavyweights as the St. Joseph’s University graduate won his first twenty-three bouts with wins over the likes of Michael Alexander (11-0), Talmadge Griffis (24-6-3), Jonathan Haggler (18-1) before suffering his 1st defeat to future two-time world title challenger Chris Arreola via controversial disqualification.

Witherspoon went on to win three win a row which was highlighted by an entertaining 8th round stoppage over Adam “The Swamp Donkey” Richards (21-1). That fight was voted Ring Magazine’s 2008 Heavyweight Fight of the Year. Witherspoon then dropped a fight to future two-time world title challenger Tony Thompson.

Witherspoon went on to score 4-consecutive knockouts which included a devastating 3rd-round destruction over Tyson Cobb (14-2).

Witherspoon then took on undefeated prospect Seth Mitchell on April 28, 2012 in a bout where Witherspoon had Mitchell badly hurt in several occasions before Mitchell came away with the victory.

In has last bout, Witherspoon stopped Cory Phelps in two rounds at the GPG Event on January 24.

Brown (43-29-1, 25 KO’s) of St. Joseph, Missouri has been in with many of the top fighters from the Super Middleweight through the Heavyweight divisions.

He has wins over Richard Carmack (12-1), Dominique Alexander (13-2-1), Craig Schrimpf (8-1), Rick Camlin (33-4), Luis Pena (8-2) & Maurice Brantley (23-5).

The 33 year-old turned professional in 2001 and has faced world champion Robert Steiglitz & Hasim Rahman as well as world title challengers Brian Minto, Mariusz Wach & Fres Oquendo.

Brown is coming off of a 4-round unanimous decision over John Turlington on March 28 in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Appearing on the undercard in 4-round bouts will be:

Vidal Rivera (1-0, 1 KO) of Camden, NJ takes on Tyron Stewart (0-1) in a super bantamweight clash.

Obafemi Bakari (2-0) of Staten Island, NY will fight pro debuting Andrew Osborne in a jr. middleweight fight.

Matthew Gonzalez (2-0) of Vineland,NJ will take on Joseph McDonald (0-1) of Concord, NC in a jr. middleweight fight.

Courtney Blocker (4-0, 4 KO’s) of Pensacola, FL will take on pro debuting Jamal Saunders in a jr. welterweight bout.

Erick Kitt (5-0, 2 KO’s) of Pensacola, FL will see action in a jr. middleweight bout against Rick Graham (2-5-2, 1 KO) of Detroit, MI.

Malik Hawkins (2-0, 2 KO’s) of Baltimore, MD will take part in a jr. welterweight bout against pro debuting Darius Jackson.

Andrew Puerifoy (0-1) of Sicklerville, NJ will fight in a cruiserweight against Antuwan Taylor (0-2) of Cincinnati, OH.

Rocco Salimbene of Pennsauken, NJ will make his pro debut in a lightweight fight

Tickets for the great evening of championship boxing $80 for Ringside, $60 for select and $40 for General Admission and can be purchased by calling 856 472 0443 or 609 938 1755 or by email at info@silverspoonpromotions.com

There will be an after party at the GPG Event Center.

The GPG Event Center is located at 1443 Route 73 in Pennsauken.

IRVINE. Calif. – April 9, 2015 – 25 of the 26 fighters competing on Friday’s “Bellator: Brooks vs. Jansen” took to the scales and successfully hit their targeted weights Thursday afternoon at the Radisson Hotel in Newport Beach, Calif. The stacked MMA card emanates from the Bren Events Center in Irvine, Calif., tomorrow, airing LIVE and FREE on Spike at 9 p.m. ET.

“Bellator: Brooks vs. Jansen” is headlined by a fight between Bellator Lightweight World Champion Will Brooks (15-1) and Dave Jansen (20-2). “Ill Will” has won six consecutive bouts, while “The Fugitive” has rallied off seven straight victories of his own.

The event also features the return of multi-combat sports star Joe Schilling (2-3), who faces Brazilian standout Rafael Carvalho (10-1) in a middleweight co-main event.

“Bellator: Brooks vs. Jansen” – Friday, April 10, Bren Events Center, Irvine, Calif.

Joe Schilling (185.6) vs. Rafael Carvalho (185.8)

Joe Schilling (185.6) vs. Rafael Carvalho (185.8)

Marcin Held (155.8) vs. Alexander Tiger Sarnavskiy (155)

Marcin Held (155.8) vs. Alexander “Tiger” Sarnavskiy (155)

Alexander Volkov (243) vs. Tony Johnson (264)

Alexander Volkov (243) vs. Tony Johnson (264)

Fabricio Guerreiro (145.8) vs. John Teixeira (145.2)

Fabricio Guerreiro (145.8) vs. John Teixeira (145.2)

Joey Beltran (184) vs. Brian Rogers (186)

Joey Beltran (184) vs. Brian Rogers (186)

Saad Awad (155.4) vs. Rob Sinclair (155.2)

Saad Awad (155.4) vs. Rob Sinclair (155.2)

A.J. McKee (144) vs. Marcos Bonilla (147)

A.J. McKee (144) vs. Marcos Bonilla (146

Jonathan Santa Maria (125) vs. Steve Ramirez (126)

Jonathan Santa Maria (125) vs. Steve Ramirez (126)

Chris Herrera (186) vs. Luc Bondole (185.6)

Chris Herrera (186) vs. Luc Bondole (185.6)

Chad George (136) vs. Mark Vorgeas (135.6)

Chad George (136) vs. Mark Vorgeas (135.6)

Jay Bogan (147.4) vs. Justin Governale (146)

Jay Bogan (146.6) vs. Justin Governale (146)

Aaron Miller (150) vs. Cleber Luciano (150)

Aaron Miller (150) vs. Cleber Luciano (150)

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 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.

SANTA MONICA, Calif. (April 8, 2015) Bellator MMA has announced plans for a summer return to the Kansas Star Arena in Mulvane, Kan., on June 26 for an event currently titled “Bellator 139.”

The first two fights confirmed to take place on the “Bellator 139” main card have been announced with Kansas’ own David “The Caveman” Rickels (16-3) taking on Pride Fighting Championships veteran John Alessio (35-17) in lightweight action and former featherweight champ Pat Curran (20-7) faces Goiti Yamauchi (18-2).

Additional fights, including a main event, will be announced shortly.

The event will broadcast live at 9 p.m. EST/ 8 p.m. CST Live and Free on Spike. The preliminary card will be streamed on Spike.com beginning at 7:30 p.m. EST/ 6:30 p.m. CST Tickets starting at $20 go on sale this Saturday, April 11 at 10 a.m. CT, and can be purchased online at KansasStarEventCenter.com or Ticketmaster.com.

A fan-favorite in the Kansas area, Rickels will be making his 14th appearance for the Scott Coker-led promotion since 2011. “The Caveman,” a 26-year-old who competed for the 155-pound title against Michael Chandler at Bellator 97, was most recently in action against Davi Ramos at Bellator 130, winning via unanimous decision.

Alessio, 35, has not been in action since May of 2014, when he earned a unanimous decision win against Eric Wisely at Bellator 119. The 53-fight veteran has competed professionally since 1998 against the likes of Pat Miletich, Diego Sanchez and Paul Daley.

A former Bellator MMA 145 pound champion, Curran will return to action for the first time since his split decision loss to Daniel Weichel at Bellator 133. “Paddy Mike” has been involved in some of the most entertaining scraps in promotional history and will look to continue that trend against Yamauchi.

At only 22-years-old, Yamauchi is already making waves in Bellator’s featherweight division. The Japanese competitor holds victories over Mike Richman and Martin Stapleton and has earned 15 of his 18 professional wins before reaching the judges’ scorecards. The upcoming bout with Curran will serve as his toughest test to date under the Bellator banner.

THIS WEEK: Bellator Lightweight World Champion Will Brooks looks to defend his title for the first time against former lightweight tournament winner Dave Jansen. Also on the card, World Champion kickboxer Joe Schilling returns to the Bellator cage for the first time since he produced a Knockout of the Year candidate over Melvin Manhoef last November. Schilling faces a tough Rafael Carvalho at “Bellator: Brooks vs. Jansen,” which airs Live and Free on Spike this Friday, April 10, at 9/8c from the Bren Events Center at UC Irvine.

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 Spike TV:
Spike TV 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 TV’s Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike TV’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 Kansas Star Arena
The Kansas Star Arena, a Boyd Gaming facility, is located just off Exit 33 on the Kansas Turnpike and is adjacent to the Kansas Star Casino. The 42,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art Kansas Star Arena is south-central Kansas’ home for big-name national acts such as Journey, Pat Benatar, Championship Rodeo, mixed martial arts events and more. The Arena accommodates up to 6,500 guests for headliner events. In 2014, Midwest Gaming and Travel awarded the Kansas Star more than 25 honors in its annual Reader’s Choice Awards, including “Best Concert Venue” in the state of Kansas. For more information, visit kansasstarcasino.com. Connect with Kansas Star Arena at facebook.com/kansasstararena and www.kansasstarcasino.com/entertain/arena. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Boyd Gaming is a leading diversified owner and operator of 22 gaming entertainment properties located in Nevada, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and New Jersey. Boyd Gaming and Kansas Star Casino press releases are available at boydgaming.mediaroom.com.

Totowa, NJ: Mairis Briedis (14-0, 11 KOs), the undefeated cruiserweight from Riga, Latvia, has just signed a co-promotional agreement with Main Events. Briedis is currently promoted overseas by J.C. Courreges’ Biggers Better Boxing, the co-promotion will cover all of Briedis’ US and Canadian fights.

The 30-year old Briedis is the current International Boxing Association Cruiserweight and WBC Baltic Cruiserweight Champions and undefeated in 14 professional fights. After making his professional debut back in 2009 he knocked out his next eight opponents in a row over the span of three years.

In his last fight he defeated Ismail Abdoul via a 12-round unanimous decision. This Friday he will take on Bjoern Blaschke in Dortelweil, Hessen, Germany. The undefeated Briedis said, “I’m very happy to be joining Main Events and I truly believe that this will be a turning point in my career. I appreciate that Ms. Kathy Duva and Main Events have believed in me and are ready to give me a platform to reach my highest goals of becoming the world champion. I’m looking forward to introducing myself to the American boxing world and show how tough Latvians can be in the boxing ring!”

Courreges added, “Mairis Briedis is an exceptional talent and we are thankful to Kathy Duva for giving us the opportunity to prove ourselves in the USA and hopefully becoming world champion in a very near future.”

Hall of Fame referee Steve Smoger had this to say about the signing, “I’ve had the pleasure of refereeing Mairis Briedis. He’s a highly skilled and world class fighter. I’m happy that he’s coming to the USA!”

Kathy Duva is excited to add another cruiserweight to her stable. She said, “Mairis Briedis is a very promising cruiserweight prospect. I’m looking forward to seeing him in the ring this weekend on Eurosport then bringing him to the United States.”

FOLLOW US:
www.mainevents.com
Twitter: @main_events
Facebook: facebook.com/MainEventsBoxing

NEW YORK (April 8, 2015) – Top 10 ranked super lightweight contender Amir Imam (16-0, 14 KOs) will aim to move one step closer to a world title opportunity when he makes his second start of 2015 against fellow power-puncher Walter Castillo (25-2, 18 KOs) in the 10-round co-feature of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING on Saturday, April 18, LIVE on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)

In the main event from StubHub Center in Carson, Calif., Mexican superstar Julio Cesar Chavez (48-1-1, 32 KOs) faces exciting brawler Andrzej Fonfara (26-3, 15 KOs), of Chicago by way of Poland, in a 12-round light heavyweight bout.

One of boxing’s fastest-rising prospects, the 24-year-old Imam has knocked out 14 of his 16 professional opponents since turning pro in 2011. The Albany, N.Y., native is coming off a fifth-round TKO of Fidel Maldonado Jr., in a brawl on Jan. 17 on SHOWTIME that featured five total knockdowns. Imam, currently ranked No. 4 in the WBA and No. 7 in the WBC, touched the canvas for the first time in his career but bounced back and relied on his power to floor Maldonado a total of four times.

“I know Walter is a tough fighter, he comes forward and throws a lot of punches,” Imam said. “But I will figure him out quickly once I get inside the ring. I’m working on a lot of different things for this training camp, lots of tricky moves that are going to excite the fans. It’s great to fight outdoors at StubHub Center and to showcase my talents on SHOWTIME. I’m here to entertain and prove I’m ready for that title shot.”

Castillo (25-2, 18 KOs), of Managua, Nicaragua, has won nine straight and KO’d six of his last seven opponents. The 26-year-old has fought mostly in Nicaragua and the only blemishes on his record are a split-decision loss in his pro debut and a controversial 2008 split decision on the road against former world champ Vicente Mosquera in Panama. Castillo, who has knocked out his last four opponents inside of four rounds, will make his second start in the U.S. after winning his American debut via first round TKO last October.

“I’m very excited for this fight. I’ve been training hard for months now and can’t wait for the bell to ring,” Castillo said. “Where I’m from we have a history of great warriors like Alexis Arguello and ?Rosendo Alvarez and on April 18 I’m looking to moving one step closer to adding my name to that list. Imam may be undefeated but I’m ready for a war.”

# # #

Tickets for the event, which is co-promoted by Goossen Promotions and Chavez Promotions, are priced at $200, $150, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and service charges, are on sale now and are available for purchase online at AXS.com.

Chavez Jr. vs. Fonfara, is a 12-round bout that takes place at StubHub Center in Carson, Calif. and will air on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT). The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will also be available in Spanish via secondary audio programming (SAP).

For more information visit www.sports.sho.com, follow on Twitter at @SHOSports, @jcchavezjr1, @andrzej_fonfara, @StubHubCenter and @Swanson_Comm, follow the conversation using #ChavezFonfara, become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SHOBoxing or visit the SHOWTIME Boxing Blog at http://theboxingblog.sho.com.

Toronto – Fight Network, the world’s premier 24/7 television channel dedicated to complete coverage of combat sports, today announced extensive live programming for UFC Fight Night™: Gonzaga vs. Cro Cop 2 this Saturday, April 11 from Krakow Arena in Krakow, Poland.

Fight Network will televise the live main card exclusively in Canada from 3 to 5 p.m. ET.

In the main event, Brazilian behemoth Gabriel Gonzaga (16-9) battles returning Croatian legend Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic (30-11-2) in a highly anticipated heavyweight rematch of their initial meeting in April 2007, which Gonzaga won via stunning head kick knockout.

In other featured main card bouts, Polish light heavyweight sensation Jan Blachowicz (18-3) faces his toughest career test opposite British knockout artist Jimi Manuwa (14-1), Polish welterweight hopeful Pawel Pawlak (10-1) battles Canadian “TUF: Nations” finalist Sheldon Westcott (8-2-1) and Scottish women’s strawweight standout Joanne Calderwood (9-0) puts her perfect pro record on the line against undefeated debuting Ukrainian Maryna Moroz (5-0).

Live pre-fight coverage will lead into the prelims on Saturday afternoon with Fight Network’s UFC Pre-Show Live at 2 p.m. ET, featuring previews, predictions and analysis.

In addition to all the live pre and post-fight coverage, Fight Network is the destination for UFC library content, specials and series, including UFC Unleashed, UFC Now and UFC Ultimate Insider. All airings are listed at tv.fightnetwork.com.

Post-fight coverage airs on Monday’s edition of 5 Rounds on Fight Network, which debuts at 7 p.m. ET and features a comprehensive breakdown of Saturday’s event.

The four-bout main card will re-air on Saturday night at 9 p.m. ET and Sunday night at Midnight ET.

The full card for UFC Fight Night™: Gonzaga vs. Cro Cop 2 includes:

Main Card (Live on Fight Network, 3 p.m. ET):
-Gabriel Gonzaga (16-9) vs. Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipovic (30-11-2)
-Jan Blachowicz (18-3) vs. Jimi Manuwa (14-1)
-Pawel Pawlak (10-1) vs. Sheldon Westcott (8-2-1)
-Joanne Calderwood (9-0) vs. Maryna Moroz (5-0)

Preliminary Card (Live on UFC Fight Pass, 11:45 a.m. ET):
-Seth Baczynski (19-12) vs. Leon Edwards (8-2)
-Garreth McLellan (12-2) vs. Bartosz Fabinski (11-2)
-Sergio Moraes (8-2) vs. Mickael Lebout (13-3-2)
-Daniel Omielanczuk (16-4-1) vs. Anthony Hamilton (13-4)
-Izabela Badurek (5-2) vs. Aleksandra Albu (1-0)
-Marcin Bandel (13-3) vs. Stevie Ray (16-5)
-Taylor Lapilus (8-1) vs. Rocky Lee (3-0)
-Damian Stasiak (8-2) vs. Yaotzin Meza (20-9)

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

NEW YORK (April 8, 2015) – Premier Boxing Champions on NBC main event fighters Danny “Swift” Garcia, Lamont Peterson, “Irish” Andy Lee and Peter “Kid Chocolate” Quillin met with “Chopped” judges Chris Santos, Scott Conant and “Chopped” host Ted Allen today at Santos’ trendy New York City restaurant Beauty & Essex, in advance of their bouts this Saturday, April 11 at Barclays Center.

Click HERE for photos from today’s event.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by DiBella Entertainment, are priced at $300, $200, $150, $100, $80 and $50, not including applicable service charges and taxes, and are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.barclayscenter.com, www.ticketmaster.com and at the American Express Box Office at Barclays Center. To charge by phone, call Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. For group tickets, please call 800-GROUP-BK.

# # #

For more information visit www.premierboxingchampions.com www.nbcsports.com/boxing,
www.BarclaysCenter.com and www.dbe1.com, follow on Twitter @PremierBoxing, @LouDiBella, @DannySwift, @KingPete26, @KidChocolate, @AndyLeeBoxing, @RealLuisCollazo, @NBCSports and @BarclaysCenter and become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/PremierBoxingChampions,www.facebook.com/NBCSports and
www.facebook.com/DiBellaEntertainment. Follow the conversation using #PremierBoxingChampions and #BKBoxing.

PUERTO RICO (April 8, 2015) – Gary Shaw Productions top contender, Puerto Rican sensation Thomas Dulorme (22-1, 14 KO’s), is just 9 pounds over the weight limit of 140 lbs. for his Saturday, April 18th showdown against “2014 Fighter of the Year” and former lightweight world champion, Terence Crawford (25-0, 17 KOs).

“I’m very happy with everything that is happening in the training camp,” said an excited Thomas Dulorme. Chef Tom Gonzalez has done a great job with my nutrition. I’m eating good, healthy food and we can see the results in comparison to my recent fights. Since campaigning at 140 pounds, I’ve never been so close to making weight as I am now with less than two weeks to go. I’m feeling incredibly strong and the food I’m eating has made a tremendous difference in a positive way”.

“Dulorme is very focused for this fight and it’s evident with his weight being right where it’s supposed to be at this stage in camp.” said Promoter Gary Shaw. “I’ve been assured from his team that he’s going to be peaking on fight night. I can’t wait to see him shine against Crawford.”

Dulorme Team is composed of Puerto Rican trainers, Anthony Otero, Felix Pagan Pintor and Oscar Seary, better known as Don Khan. The team newest addition is Jose ‘Kike’ Rosa, a former Olympian boxer (Montreal 1976) that as a boxing trainer has worked with former world champion Nelson Dieppa, former world title contender, Wilfredo Rivera, and Esteban Pizarro, among others.

“The addition of ‘Kike’ has been very good for the team because it throws more experience and motivation to all group members,” said Dulorme’s advisor Richy Miranda, president of ADM (Artists Designs Management). “His knowledge have been tested in training, and we guarantee that the group is doing really good. Puerto Rico will have a new world champion who will be representing all the Latinos for long time”.

The Crawford vs Dulorme bout will be for the vacant WBO junior welterweight world title on Saturday, April 18th, at theCollege Park Center located at the University of Texas, Arlington. The bout will be televised live as part of a split-site doubleheader on HBO beginning at 9:45 p.m. ET/PT.

Promoted By Top Rank®, in association with Gary Shaw Productions, Foreman Boys Promotions and Tecate, tickets to the Crawford-Dulorme are on sale now. Priced at $200, $100, $60, $40 and $25, plus applicable fees, tickets can be purchased at College Park Center box office, online at www.utatickets.com or www.utacollegpark.com or by phone at (817) 272-9595.

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

HOUSTON (April 8) – Everything is always bigger in Texas and that will certainly be the case when it comes to the undercard of one of the most anticipated fights of the year, Canelo vs. Kirkland at Minute Maid Park in Houston on Saturday, May 9. Chinese heavyweight sensation Taishan (3-0, 2 KOs), 2012 U.S Olympian Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr. (15-0, 10 KOs) and top contender Joshua “Grand Master” Clottey (38-4, 22 KOs) will headline the non-televised undercard. In addition, some of Texas’ top talent will be featured on the card as well including the professional debut of welterweight James Leija Jr., the son of Texas Boxing Legend Jesse James Leija.

In the previously announced main event of the evening, Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez (44-1-1, 31 KOs) will face off against Texas knockout artist James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland (32-1, 28 KOs), and former three-time world champion Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto (65-8-2, 35 KOs) will battle unbeaten star Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (18-0, 13 KOs) in the co-main event, both set to air live on HBO World Championship Boxing ® starting at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.

Also appearing on this stacked card is Chattanooga, Tennessee’s lightweight Ryan “Blue Chip” Martin (12-0, 7 KOs) in a eight-round bout, and Austin’s Curtis Meeks (9-1-2, 3 KOs) will compete in a super lightweight eight-round fight against Ramsey Luna (12-2, 5 KOs) of Corpus Christi. San Antonio’s Cresencio Ramos (2-0, 1 KO) will be featured in a four-round featherweight bout against Manuel “El Terco” Rubalcava (2-12). Cut and Shoot, Texas’s light heavyweight Alfonso “El Tigre” Lopez (23-3, 18 KOs) is scheduled for six rounds; Houston lightweight Antonio Capulin (14-0, 6 KOs) is set for a six-round competition; and Galveston heavyweight Eugene “Mean Gene” Hill (31-1, 21 KOs) will fight in a six-round match.

The undefeated KeAndre Gibson (12-0-1, 5 KOs) of St. Louis, Missouri will take on Jorge Romero (24-9, 21 KOs) of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico in an eight-round welterweight fight. San Antonio’s Joseph Rodriguez (8-0, 2 KOs), who is also undefeated, will fight a six-round featherweight bout against Luis Guevara (3-0-1, 2 KOs) of Houston, Texas. Also, seasoned fighter Rodrigo “Gatito” Guerrero (22-5-1, 15 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico will fight in a 10-round bantamweight bout. All missing opponents will be announced shortly.

Tickets priced at $350, $150, $100, $50, $25 and $10, plus applicable fees and service charges, are available for purchase at Astros.com/boxing, the Minute Maid Park Box Office (Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, online at www.ticketmaster.com. There is a 19-ticket limit per household.

Hailing from Beijing, seven-foot heavyweight Taishan, has captured the imagination of boxing fans both in China and in his adopted home in California. After turning professional in 2014 and scoring two quick knockouts, the 26-year-old showed that he has what it takes to win over the distance, as he scored a near-shutout victory over Roy McCrary in February of 2015. Now, it’s time for Texas fans to see what all the excitement is about when he takes on Montgomery, Alabama’s Ronny Hale(3-7, 3 KOs) in a four round bout.

A member of the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, South El Monte, California’s Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz is unbeaten as a professional and has earned impressive victories each step of the way. At just 22, the southpaw sensation was 6-0 in 2014, and he got 2015 off to an equally strong start on March 6 with a third-round stoppage of Juan Luis Hernandez. On May 9, he will make his third appearance in the Lone Star State in a 10-round featherweight bout.

Currently ranked third in the world by the WBA and eighth by the WBC, Joshua “Grand Master” Clottey is a Ghanaian powerhouse closing in on a 2015 title shot. A former IBF welterweight champion who owns wins over Zab Judah, Diego Corrales and Jose Luis Cruz, the 37-year-old has three straight wins since his decision losses to boxing greats Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto. He most notably won the WBA International Super Welterweight title with a 12-round victory over Anthony Mundine last April.

The undefeated, Ryan “Blue Chip” Martin of Chattanooga, Tenn. has been on the fast track since his professional debut in 2013. Martin had a busy 2014, going 7-0 and most recently won a unanimous decision over Carlos Valenzuela in February of 2015. Now, he’s ready to add another win to his resume on May 9 in a six round lightweight battle.

Austin, Texas native Curtis Meeks makes his return to boxing on May 9. In his last bout, Meeks won via decision against Derrik Moon in 2008 and maintained an undefeated record from 2001 to 2004. His only blemish is a split-decision loss against Humberto Chaves in August of 2004 with Meeks landing the best punches, rocking Gonzales in each of the final four rounds.

A professional since 2010, Ramsey Luna has had steady professional career in the lightweight division. He’s stayed busy the past few years and most recently faced Justo Vallencillo and won via unanimous decision in May and went the distance against Ryan Kielczewski in June. In his first bout of 2015, Luna is eager to impress fans on the card of Canelo-Kirkland taking on Meeks in an eight round super lightweight bout.

A newcomer out of San Antonio, Texas, Cresencio Ramos made an impression in his professional debut with a first round knockout win against Daniel Sanchez in August of 2014. He most recently faced Jaime Hernandez in December and won the bout via unanimous decision. The Texas native is looking to continue his winning streak in his first bout of 2015 on May 9.

26-year-old Manuel “El Terco” Rubalcava of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico is a relative newcomer who is known for his stamina in the ring. With 14 fights to his name since his professional debut in 2012, Rubalcava will be looking to add a victory to his resume when he faces Cresencio Ramos in a four-round featherweight bout.

Recently named one of San Antonio’s rising stars in their 20s, 24-year-old James Leija, Jr. comes from boxing royalty, as his father Jesse James Leija, Sr. is a former world champion revered in the state of Texas. But, now it’s Leija, Jr.’s turn to make his mark on the boxing world, and the former amateur star and St. Mary’s University graduate has the talent and charisma to make some noise in the featherweight division.

San Antonio native Eric Butler is a newcomer trying to make a name for himself in the competitive welterweight division. Fighting since late 2013, Butler is looking for a win on his first fight of 2015 when he faces James Leija, Jr. in a four round bout on May 9.

Hard-puncher, Alfonso “El Tigre” Lopez of Cut and Shoot, Texas has been on the fast track for a title since his professional debut in 2007. Undefeated from 2007 to 2010, Lopez earned the USA Texas State Super Middleweight Title and the WBC Continental Americas Super Middleweight Title. In his first fight of 2015, Lopez stopped Juan Reyna in the third round in February. Now fighting in the light heavyweight division, Lopez is looking to find success in his second fight of 2015.

Undefeated Houston native Antonio Capulin will be looking to give his hometown fans a good show on May 9. Capulin got off to an exciting start in his career, when he won via first round knockout against Thomas Almeida in his professional debut in 2010. He most recently faced Miguel Alvarez, Aason Anderson and Marteze Logan in 2014 and is looking to add another name to his list in his first fight of 2015.

Heavyweight brawler Eugene “Mean Gene” Hill is an impressive fighter that has set his sights on a world title. Already the holder of the USA Texas Heavyweight title and the World Boxing Federation International Heavyweight title, Hill has not slowed down. Having faced Jamal Woods in January and Rubin Williams in March, the fighter is ready for his third fight of 2015 in a six round fight at Minute Maid Park on May 9.

24-year-old welterweight prospect, KeAndre Gibson, who now makes his home in Las Vegas, has become quite popular in Texas, where he won impressive victories over John Nater and Jose Hernandez. In January, Gibson took on Nicaragua’s Nelson Lara winning the fight via unanimous decision. In his second fight of 2015, Gibson may be facing the toughest fighter of his career when he goes up against Jorge Ramos in an eight round fight.

With 32 fights under his belt, Jorge Ramos of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, is ready for his U.S. debut on May 9. Fighting almost exclusively in Mexico, the tough fighter is known for having a heavy hand winning 21 out of 24 bouts via knockout. Ramos most recently faced Michael Perez last April and now is looking for another opportunity to impress fans in his first fight of 2015.

One of San Antonio’s rising stars, Joseph Rodriguez will be looking to maintain his undefeated status when he faces Luis Guevara on May 9. A professional since 2012, he has kept busy in 2014, fighting and defeating Jesus Garza, Francisco Arellano, Jeremy Longoria and Jesus Sandoval.

Featherweight newcomer Luis Guevara of Houston is ready to impress fans in his hometown on May 9. The undefeated fighter turned professional in 2014 and most recently faced Marc Alcaraz in January of this year, winning the bout via unanimous decision.

Southpaw Mexican fighter Rodrigo “Gatito” Guerro of Mexico City will make his third appearance in the U.S. when he faces a yet to be announced fighter on May 9. Undefeated in his last three bouts against Daniel Rosas, Takahiro Shigee and Jonathan Baat, the heavy-handed bantamweight will be looking to make new fans in his Houston debut.

Canelo Alvarez vs. James Kirkland is a 12-round super welterweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions, SMS Promotions and Leija*Battah Promotions. The fight will take place Saturday, May 9 at Minute Maid Park in Houston Texas and is sponsored by Corona Extra, Mexico – Live it to Believe it!, Fred Loya Insurance and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. CT and first bout starts at 11:10 a.m. CT, the HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.

An all-new edition of 24/7 Alvarez/Kirkland debuts Tuesday, May 5 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO.

All opponents will be announced shortly. For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx, www.smsboxing.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.astros.com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @SMS_Boxing, @HBOBoxing, @Canelo, @KOKirkland, @Astros @LeijaBattahPR become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/SMSBoxing, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing or www.facebook.com/astros and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @smsboxing and @HBOboxing, @Canelopower, @Kirklandsworld. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKirkland.

NEWARK (April 8, 2015) — Local favorites and Top-10 contenders GLEN “Jersey Boy” TAPIA and “Irish” SEANIE MONAGHAN will headline an action-packed boxing card to be televised live on truTV at 10 p.m. ET – on Friday, May 8 from Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

Tapia, who hails from nearby Passaic, will defend his NABO junior middleweight title against one-time world title challenger MICHEL SORO of France. Monaghan, the undefeated World Boxing Council (WBC) Continental light heavyweight champion from Long Beach, NY, will risk his undefeated record, title and No. 3 world rating when he battles 2000 Olympian CLEITON CONCEIÇÃO from Brazil. The four warriors boast a combined record of 91-8-3 (61 KOs) and a winning ratio of 89%, with over two-thirds of their victories by way of knockout.

Promoted by Top Rank®, tickets to the Tapia vs. Soro / Monaghan vs. Conceição boxing event will go on sale This Friday! April 10, beginning at 10:00 a.m. ET. Tickets are available at $105, $60, $40 and $25, plus applicable taxes and fees, and may be purchased online at www.Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000 or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased at Prudential Center’s box office beginning Monday, April 13, at 11:00 a.m. ET.

“It will be great to be in New Jersey fighting in front of my hometown fans,” said Tapia. “Freddie Roach and I have been working very hard in training camp to make May 8 a knockout of a homecoming.”

“I am very excited to fight at Prudential Center and live on tru-TV,” said Monaghan. “I am defending my title and I am delighted to fight at a great venue where my army of fans can come support me. I want to fight for a world title this year so watch me bring it on May 8 and show the world why I really deserve a world title shot.”

“Prudential Center is known as ‘The Rock’ and we expect this crowd to be just that – ROCKING,” said Carl Moretti, Vice President of Top Rank. “Fan favorites Glen Tapia and Seanie Monaghan as well as a host of undercard prospects including local rising star Julian Rodriguez, from Hasbrouck Heights, will make the feeling at The Rock like a Devils-Rangers game.”

Trained by Hall of Famer Freddie Roach and co-managed by Pat Lynch, Tapia (23-1, 15 KOs) enters this fight with six of his last seven victories coming by way of stoppage, including his last three. World-rated No. 6 by the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and the World Boxing Organization (WBO), Tapia returns to the ring on the heels of his biggest professional victory, a third-round knockout of former Australian junior middleweight and middleweight champion Daniel Dawson to claim the vacant NABO junior middleweight title. The fight took place on March 7 in Macau, China, and the sellout crowd made up mostly of Chinese boxing fans joyously chanted “Jersey Boy! Jersey Boy!” as the referee raised his hand. It was the second time he hard-hitting Tapia has reigned as the NABO junior middleweight champion. Tapia first claimed the title in 2013 when he upset the previously undefeated contender Abie Han via an eighth-round TKO.

Soro (25-1-1, 15 KO), a native of Abidjan, Ivory Coast who now fights out of Villeurbanne, Rhône, France, enters this fight riding a three-year, eight-bout unbeaten streak with his last three victories coming by way of knockout, including two this year.
Boasting two-fisted power and experience against quality opposition, Soro is a former French and WBO European junior middleweight champion. The only blemish on his record was a 12-round decision loss to International Boxing Organization (IBO) junior middleweight world champion Zaurbek Baysangurov in 2012, though he did knock the defending champion down in the second round and staggered him in the fifth.

One of the top boxing gate attractions in his native New York, Monaghan (23-0, 15 KOs) will be making his 2015 debut. He captured the WBC Continental Americas light heavyweight title in 2012 via an eighth-round TKO of Romaro Johnson. He has successfully defended the title four times during his three-year reign and has won five of his last six bouts by way of knockout. Monaghan is currently world-rated No. 3 by the World Boxing Association (WBA) and No. 6 by the WBC and the International Boxing Federation (IBF).

Conceição (20-6-2, 16 KOs), of São Paulo, Brazil, has scored his last five victories by way of knockout. His strong amateur background included being a member of the 2000 Brazilian Olympic team as well as being a two-time Brazilian National Champion. In his last fight, on February 20, Conceição scored a first-round knockout of Nei De Lima.

About Prudential Center
Prudential Center is a world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 175 concerts, family shows and special events each year. Ranked in the Top 10 nationally by Pollstar, Billboard and Venue’s Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and welcomes 1.75 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit PruCenter.com and Facebook, and follow @PruCenter on Twitter.

The April 10 edition of ESPN Friday Night Fights presented by Corona Extra and ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates presentado por Corona Extra will feature the highly anticipated semifinals of Boxcino 2015. Friday’s show from the Sands Hotel and Casino in Bethlehem, Pa., will air live at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN2, broadband Spanish-language ESPN Deportes+ and WatchESPN. ESPN Deportes will televise Friday’s fights at 10:30 p.m.

Commentators:
Joe Tessitore will be ringside with analyst Teddy Atlas describing the action for ESPN2, while studio host Todd Grisham (@GrishamESPN) will be on site presenting all the latest boxing news and highlights. ESPN boxing analyst Nigel Collins (@ESPNFNF) will also be there providing insight and analysis. Pablo Viruega and Delvin Rodríguez will call the fights for ESPN Deportes and ESPN Deportes+, while Leopoldo González and Claudia Trejos will co-anchor the studio. Bilingual reporter Bernardo Osuna (@osunaespn) will present live interviews and reports for both shows.

The single-elimination, two-weight class tournament featuring eight fighters in both the heavyweight and junior middleweight divisions began in February on Friday Night Fights and will culminate with the finals on May 22. Friday’s semifinals will feature:

Heavyweights, eight rounds each:
Andrey Fedosov (26-3, 21 KOs) vs. Lenroy Thomas (19-3, 9 KOs)
Razvan Cojanu (13-1, 7 KOs) vs. Donovan Dennis (13-2, 1 NC, 10 KOs)

Junior Middleweights, eight rounds each:
Brandon Adams (16-1, 11 KOs) vs. Vito Gasparyan (15-3-5, 8 KOs)
Stanyslav Skorokhod (9-0, 7 KOs) vs. John Thompson (15-1, 5 KOs)

Fighter backgrounds:
In the quarterfinal round of Boxcino 2015, California’s Fedosov scored a first-round TKO win over Nate Heaven, while Florida’s Thomas scored a seven-round TKO win over 2004 U.S. Olympian Jason Estrada. California’s Cojanu is looking to continue his winning ways following a seven-round unanimous decision win over Ed Fountain, while Dennis, of Iowa, is looking for another victory following a fourth-round TKO win over previously undefeated Steve Vukosa.

Los Angeles’ Adams, a finalist in last year’s Boxcino 2014 tournament, scored a fifth-round TKO win over Alex Perez in the Boxcino 2015 quarterfinals, while California’s Gasparyan won a six-round unanimous decision against previously undefeated Simeon Hardy. Skorokhod, of Ukraine, won by fourth-round TKO against previously undefeated Michael Moore in the quarterfinals, while Thompson won a six-round unanimous decision against Ricardo Pinell.

Upcoming Schedule:
Date
Time (ET)
Main Event
Location
Networks
Fri, Apr 10
9 p.m.
Boxcino 2015 Semifinals: 8 rounds each

Heavyweights:

Andrey Fedosov (26-3, 21 KOs) vs. Lenroy Thomas (19-3, 9 KOs)

Razvan Cojanu (13-1, 7 KOs) vs. Donovan Dennis (13-2, 1 NC, 10 KOs)

Jr. Middleweights:

Brandon Adams (16-1, 11 KOs) vs. Vito Gasparyan (15-3-5, 8 KOs)

Stanyslav Skorokhod (9-0, 7 KOs) vs. John Thompson (15-1, 5 KOs)
Sands Hotel & Casino, Bethlehem, Pa.
ESPN2, ESPN Deportes+, WatchESPN
Fri, Apr 17
10 p.m.
Tony Harrison (20-0, 17 KOs) vs. Pablo Munguía (20-6, 11 KOs)
Mohegan Sun Casino, Uncasville, Conn
ESPN2, ESPN Deportes+, WatchESPN
*Schedule subject to change

ESPN Boxing Social Media and Digital Content:
· Follow ESPN Friday Night Fights’ Nigel Collins on Twitter @ESPNFNF or like ESPN Friday Night Fights on Facebook.

· Score the fights round-by-round with the “Live Friday Night Fights Facebook Voting App,” an application on the ESPN FNF Facebook page that allows viewers to score the fight round-by-round.

· Follow ESPN Deportes’ Noche de Combates on Twitter @ESPNBoxeo.

· For the latest ESPN.com boxing news and analysis follow @ESPNBoxing.

· For ESPN boxing digital content, visit the newly re-designed boxing section on ESPN.com (http://espn.go.com/boxing/).