NEW YORK (Feb. 17, 2017) – SHOWTIME Sports will live-stream the first ever boxing event on Twitter this Saturday, offering fans the opportunity to watch and join the conversation during the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader headlined by popular four-division world champion Adrien Broner versus upset-minded Adrian Granados.

The unique collaboration with Twitter is an extension of the SHOWTIME Free Preview Weekend during which the premium network will be available to more than 73 million television households nationwide from Friday, February 17 through Monday, February 20.

Twitter’s live stream of Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will be available for free to logged-in and logged-out users on Twitter and connected devices in the United States and Canada. Access to the live stream will be available at showtimeboxing.twitter.com, in Twitter’s explore tab and on @ShowtimeBoxing.

“We are in the midst of an unrivaled run of seven live boxing events over an eight-week span on SHOWTIME and CBS,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports. “The sport of boxing is on the rise again, and the best and most meaningful fights are on SHOWTIME. With this unprecedented live stream on Twitter, we have the opportunity to reach boxing fans and casual observers everywhere with the industry-leading boxing programming we deliver to our subscribers on a consistent basis.”

“Twitter is where fans go to for live conversations about boxing,” said Anthony Noto, COO at Twitter. “Our collaboration with SHOWTIME Sports will provide fans access to the live video stream of Saturday night’s best-in-class championship boxing coverage and the live conversation all on one screen.”

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING presentation of Broner vs. Granados airs live at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. In the main event, former four-division world champion Adrien Broner will face the hard-charging Adrian Granados in a 10-round welterweight showdown. In co-featured bouts, WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan will defend his belt against former two-time champ Lamont Peterson, while 175-pound contenders Marcus Browne and Thomas Williams square off in a 10-round light heavyweight bout.

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

About Twitter
Twitter, Inc. (NYSE: TWTR) is the best and fastest place to see what’s happening and what people are talking about all around the world. From breaking news and entertainment to sports and politics, from big events to everyday interests. If it’s happening anywhere, it’s happening first on Twitter. Twitter is where the full story unfolds with all the live commentary and where live events come to life unlike anywhere else. Twitter is available in more than 40 languages around the world. The service can be accessed at twitter.com, on a variety of mobile devices and via SMS. For more information, visit about.twitter.com or follow @twitter.

LONDON (17 February) – Adrien Broner says he has turned over a new leaf and is no longer a “sh*t talker anymore”.

The normally brash and outlandish Broner cut a new figure ahead of his ring return against Mexican-American Adrian Granados this Saturday night, exclusively live on BoxNation.

Taking place in Broner’s home city of Cincinnati, Ohio, the 27-year-old will be back in action following over 10 months out of the ring due to personal problems and now insists he is a changed man ready to do the business in front of his local fans.

“I know everyone is used to me coming up and being boastful. That’s not me anymore. I have a lot of respect for Adrian Granados and he’s a great fighter,” said Broner.

“A businessman that can fight. That’s what I am nowadays. I’m not a sh*t talker anymore. I’m a businessman that knows how to fight.

“I just want to put on a great performance for everyone in Cincinnati. It’s going to be a special atmosphere and I want to give them their money’s worth.

“I’ve had an amazing training camp and I feel great right now. I’m very thankful to my team who have helped me get to this point in my career,” Broner said.

Fighting at welterweight, 27-year-old Granados goes into the fight as the underdog but an impressive string of wins, which includes victory over the highly-touted prospect Amir Imam, gives him confidence to shock Broner.

“I’m excited for this weekend. I’m ready to go. I’ve been through a lot but we’re ready. I’m not here to lay down. I’m here to take home a victory for Chicago and for my people,” Granados said.

“People that think I’m an underdog don’t know me. They don’t know the tricks I have up my sleeve. I plan on thriving in the underdog position. Saturday I’m expecting a great fight. It is going to be a kill or be killed-type of fight. It is going to be a very exciting night for all of us.

“I’ve watched Adrien fight live on TV and in the arena many times. Spending eight weeks with him [in camp], I think I know him more than most people. I plan on winning in a stoppage or a unanimous decision – no matter what, I’m leaving with a victory,” he said.

The exciting card will also see the return and move up to welterweight for former champion Lamont Peterson who will be looking to challenge the very best at 147 pounds, including a possible rematch with Amir Khan following a controversial 2011 victory.

First, however, he must get through a tough assignment of Russian David Avanesyan, who has only lost once in 24 fights, that being in just his second professional fight nearly 8 years ago.

33-year-old Peterson, who has been out of the ring since October 2015, says he is ready to deal with Avanesyan’s unorthodox style and win late into the fight.

“Avanesyan switches from southpaw to orthodox a lot, which is something we had to be prepared for. We’ve sparred with guys from both sides and gotten a lot of good rounds there,” said Peterson.

“He’s a strong fighter too. You know a Russian fighter is going to come in with power. We made sure I’ll be able to match him anytime the fight gets rough. I’ll be ready for anything. I think my speed will give him trouble.

“He’s been able to handle everything in the past, but that doesn’t mean I won’t have advantages. I’m the more experienced fighter and I have the skills to get the win. I feel like I’m going to get him out of there. I’m predicting a late stoppage,” he said.

Broner v Granados is exclusively live on BoxNation this Saturday night via Sky/Freeview/Virgin/TalkTalk/EE/Apple TV/ online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon). Buy now at boxnation.com.

– ENDS –

About BoxNation
BoxNation, the Channel of Champions and proud partner of Rainham Steel, is the UK’s first dedicated boxing channel. From £12* per month with no minimum term customers can enjoy great value live and exclusive fights, classic fight footage, magazine shows and interviews with current and former fighters.
Previous highlights have included Haye vs Chisora, Mayweather vs Maidana, Saunders vs Eubank Jr and Khan vs Canelo.
The channel is available on Sky (Ch.437), Freeview (Ch.255), Virgin (Ch.546), TalkTalk (Ch.415), online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (ios, Android, Amazon, Apple TV). BoxNation is also available in high definition on Sky (Ch. 490), at no extra cost to Sky TV subscribers, providing they are already HD enabled.
Available on selected internet-connected Freeview products only, subject to coverage. Visit freeview.co.uk/availability.
BoxNation is also available to commercial premises (inc. pubs, clubs and casino’s) in the UK and Ireland, for more information on a commercial subscription please call 0844 842 7700.
For more information visit www.boxnation.com
*Plus £8 registration fee for Sky TV customers

CINCINNATI (February 16, 2017) – Four-division world champion Adrien Broner and hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados went face-to-face Thursday at the final press conference before they enter the ring Saturday, February 18 live on SHOWTIME® from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.

Also in attendance Thursday and competing in televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT were WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan and two-time world champion Lamont Peterson, who meet in a 12-round welterweight fight, and light heavyweight contenders Marcus Browne and Thomas Williams Jr., who battle in a 10-round contest.

Saturday’s SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING tripleheader airs during a SHOWTIME FREE PREVIEW WEEKEND during which the premium network will be available to more than 73 million television households nationwide from Friday, February 17 through Monday, February 20. Viewers can sample the network’s award-winning programming on SHOWTIME, SHOWTIME On Demand®, SHOWTIME ANYTIME®

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Here is what the participants had to say Thursday from the Cintas Center:

ADRIEN BRONER

“I know everyone is used to me coming up here and being boastful. That’s not me anymore. I have a lot of respect for Adrian Granados and he’s a great fighter.

“A businessman that can fight. That’s what I am nowadays. I’m not a sh*t talker anymore. I’m a businessman that knows how to fight.

“My best knockouts come when I don’t go for the knockout. I look at my last fight and think to myself that it was terrible because I was looking for the knockout. I watch the Khabib fight, I didn’t look for the knockout and it came. That’s when the biggest knockouts come. I just want to go in there and put on a great performance for the hometown crowd.

“I just want to put on a great performance for everyone in Cincinnati. It’s going to be a special atmosphere and I want to give them their money’s worth.

“I’ve had an amazing training camp and I feel great right now. I’m very thankful to my team who has helped me get to this point in my career.”

ADRIAN GRANADOS

“I’m excite for this weekend. I’m ready to go. I’ve been through a lot but we’re ready. I’m not here to lay down. I’m here to take home a victory for Chicago and for my people.

“Saturday I’m expecting a great fight. It is going to be a kill or be killed-type of fight. It is going to be a very exciting night for all of us.

“People that think I’m an underdog don’t know me. They don’t know the tricks I have up my sleeve. I plan on thriving in the underdog position.

“I’ve watched Adrien fight live on TV and in the arena many times. Spending eight weeks with him [in camp], I think I know him more than most people.

“I plan on winning in a stoppage or a unanimous decision. No matter what I’m leaving with a victory.”

“It’s going to be a great fight. We have a lot of mutual respect. Mixed with my style, I know it’s going to be a good fight. I hope everyone is ready for a great show.”

DAVID AVANESYAN

“I’m very happy to have this fight in America. This is my second time fighting in the U.S. and I’m looking forward to keeping my belt after fighting Lamont Peterson on Saturday.

“I am excited to be fighting on a show like this. I hope that if I can get another win I can get even bigger fights and prove that I’m the best.

“I’m ready for this challenge. I know Lamont Peterson is looking to make this a great fight and I hope he brings it in the ring on Saturday.”

LAMONT PETERSON

“I had a great camp. I’m thankful to my team for getting me ready for this one. We got some great sparring that has me ready for this fight.

“I’m ready to take care of business on Saturday night. I’m looking forward to it and I hope everyone enjoyed it.

“We always want to be in good condition. Avanesyan switches from southpaw to orthodox a lot, which is something we had to be prepared for. We’ve sparred with guys from both sides and gotten a lot of good rounds there.

“He’s a strong fighter too. You know a Russian fighter is going to come in with power. We made sure I’ll be able to match him anytime the fight gets rough. I’ll be ready for anything.

“I think my speed will give him trouble. He’s been able to handle everything in the past, but that doesn’t mean I won’t have advantages. I’m the more experienced fighter and I have the skills to get the win.

“I feel like I’m going to get him out of there. I’m predicting a late stoppage.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“Top Dog can say what he wants to say. On Saturday night we’ll be Dog Whisperers. Make sure you tune-in for this one.

“I’ve had a great training camp and I feel ready to get in the ring. Saturday night can’t come soon enough for me.

“I’m thankful to have this opportunity to fight on a great card like this. I’ve seen guys like Adrien and Lamont in the ring for a lot of years and I’m proud to be up here with them.”

THOMAS WILLIAMS JR.

“I’m feeling great. It was an awesome camp. Everyone should buy a ticket or watch it on TV. Get there early and don’t miss my fight.

“Marcus is a boxer and I know he’s going to try to kick and scratch every now and then. If you let him get comfortable, he’s going to get in a zone. My job is to make him uncomfortable and make him do the things that I want him to do.

“Everybody who knows me, knows what I bring to the table. When I get in the ring you know what’s coming. Saturday night, ‘Top Dog’ will reign.”

RAVONE LITTLEJOHN, About Billions Promotions

“It’s finally fight time. Tickets begin at $30 for this great card. We’re excited to be promoting big events in Adrien’s hometown and the great boxing fans here.

“Adrian Granados is a guy who we’ve had in camp with Adrien before. We know what he’s capable of and how hard he works. Everyone knows he’s coming to bring it.

“Adrien has done a lot in this sport and he has a lot more left to do. I know he’s going to do it, and it starts Saturday night.

“Both guys are going to get in that ring and give it their best. Adrien Broner will be victorious, but we like the challenge.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“We’re very excited to be here in this wonderful city. It’s a great boxing town with a history of very good fighters from this area. Saturday night is an outstanding show from top to bottom.

“Both of the Adrien/Adrian’s know each other very well. You want to watch Adrien Broner Saturday night. He’s going to put on a phenomenal performance that I can’t wait to see.

“From top to bottom this is an incredibly exciting card and we’re excited to work with About Billions to give boxing fans another great event.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

“At SHOWTIME our mission is to bring fans the biggest, best and most meaningful fights in boxing. This Saturday is no exception. These are three all-action and evenly matched fights. This is our third time in Cincinnati with Adrien Broner and this is the strongest card we’ve had here yet.

“When we announced our slate of winter fights, there was one event that I circled and said, ‘this is going to be the sleeper.’ This is an all-action card.

“Adrian Granados and his team did not hesitate one bit to jump at this fight. We know what type of fighter Adrien Broner is. He is a guy who will never shy away from a challenge. Whether you like him or not, Adrien always entertains and he always fights hard. I can’t wait for a great night on Saturday.”

# # #

ABOUT ADRIEN BRONER vs. ADRIAN GRANADOS
Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados will take place Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH live on SHOWTIME. Televised coverage on begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. Also featured will be WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

CINCINNATI (February 15, 2017) – Four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner and hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados kicked-off fight week with a media workout Wednesday ahead of their main event showdown Saturday, February 18 live on SHOWTIME® from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.

Also working out Wednesday and competing in televised coverage beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT were WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan and two-time world champion Lamont Peterson, who meet in a 12-round welterweight fight, and light heavyweight contenders Marcus Browne and Thomas Williams Jr., who meet in a 10-round contest.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from Oasis Elite Boxing Club:

ADRIEN BRONER

“I feel really good. I’m confident as always. Training has been great and I’m just ready to put on a show for my hometown.

“I love fighting in Cincinnati. I know that I have a lot of people coming to see me win, but even in my home city, there will be people coming to see me lose.

“I handle the pressure of a hometown fight here. This one is one a whole different level because I haven’t fought here in a long time and I can’t wait.

“I know that Granados is not coming in here to back down. He’s a tough guy but I’m ready for anything he has.

“I could box every two weeks if they let me. But if I can stay healthy I’m looking forward to staying more active this year and fighting as many times in big fights as possible.

“It’s a surreal moment for me to be in this position as a fighter and as a promoter. I know that these young fighters look up to me. If I go and keep winning world titles, it’ll remind them that they have more work to do.

“I don’t want to do anything but bring out the best Adrien Broner. There are some fights you can win, but not with a great performance. With a guy like Granados, I can’t slack. He’s only going to bring the best out of me.

“My main focus right now is on Adrien Broner and bringing more positivity in my life. It all starts with boxing.”

ADRIAN GRANADOS

“We’re all a family in the gym. We’re there to push each other. It’s my turn to get the job done and I’m glad we have each other to push ourselves to be the best.

“I wasn’t happy about my layoff for much of last year. I lost an opportunity that I wasn’t happy about it. Patience ended up being the best in the end because now I have the kind of opportunity that every fighter wants.

“I’m definitely dedicating this fight to my little brother Ed Brown. I think about him every day. He’s got the best seat in the house up in heaven and I’m going to put on a great performance for him.

“Adrien is a strong puncher but I try not to focus too much on my opponent. I’m focused on myself and what I can do to beat the man in front of me.

“My team told me to stay patient and with their guidance we got this deal signed and I got this great opportunity. I’m looking to take advantage of it.”

DAVID AVANESYAN

“Lamont Peterson is a very good fighter. I’m happy to be able to face him here in the U.S. and I’m looking to keep my belt.

“I am going to do my best in the ring. I’m going to give it my all and the fans can expect a great fight.

“If I can win this fight, I’m open to fighting anyone in the welterweight division. I want big fights with the best fighters in the world.

“It’s important that I win this fight. This can open up doors for me and I know that I have the team that will work hard to get me these matchups.

“I think his layoff will hurt him. I’m going to come out and see what he’s bringing to the ring and then I will adjust and do what I have to do to get the victory.”

LAMONT PETERSON

“This is definitely the weight I want to be fighting at. I like the way I feel and the kind of shape I’m in. There are a lot of good names in this division and a lot of opportunities out there.

“To be back for a title fight is a blessing. I’m thankful for that. Everyone needs to know that the whole time I’ve been out, I’ve been working and getting better.

“I’m glad to get this string of welterweight title fights started. I’m anxious to see how everything plays out and who comes out on top as the number one welterweight.

“We get great conditioning in the gym. It’s been another amazing training camp and we’re going to put that effort into the ring.

“I look at this as me becoming the mandatory for Keith Thurman’s belt. This is a huge fight and it’s going to lead to even bigger opportunities.”

MARCUS BROWNE

“We studied all of his fights. Stevenson and Campillo were important obviously. We’re ready to do whatever it takes to win.

“The only guy on my hit list is Thomas Williams Jr. I’m ready to get in that ring and go to work.

“This time between fights has allowed me to reinvigorate my body. People talk about ring rust, but I believe that only exists in the mind. I stayed ready this whole time.

“This is the perfect opportunity for me. This is once in a lifetime and I have to take full advantage.

“I don’t look ahead. I can only look at what is right in front of me. Right now that’s this fight on Saturday night.

“My last fight taught me that I can go down, get back up and still win. That fight is behind me though. My main focus is on what is in front of me.

“My teammates from the 2012 Olympic team are my brothers and I’m so happy to see them get their opportunities, but now it’s my turn. This is my year.”
THOMAS WILLIAMS JR.

“I’m going to see what he brings to the ring. I know that he’s a boxer by nature, but maybe he’ll change it up. He didn’t look great last fight so he may make adjustments. Either way, we’ll be ready.

“I think that I have the better overall resume of opponents. Everyone knows that. But it doesn’t even matter. All that matters is Saturday. It gives me an advantage, but it won’t change Saturday night.

“I could go in there with one strategy, but then he might mix it up. My team prepared me well and I’m ready to go.

“Marcus and I were cool in the amateurs, but once the fight got made, it’s all business. We’re not cool, but there’s no beef. I’m here to take care of business.

“I asked for this fight. I had the opportunity for an easier fight, but I didn’t want it. I’m not planning to box forever, so I wanted to get right back to a world title shot. This time I’m going to win and ride off into the sunset. I want to leave on top.

“I’m predicting a knockout victory Saturday night. Don’t blink.”
# # #

ABOUT ADRIEN BRONER vs. ADRIAN GRANADOS
Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados will take place Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH live on SHOWTIME. Televised coverage on begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. Also featured will be WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

CINCINNATI (February 15, 2017) – Unbeaten prospect Jamontay Clark (10-0, 6 KOs) meets Nicaragua’s Santos Benavides (25-11-2, 19 KOs) in an eight-round bout that highlights an exciting undercard on Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.

The event is headlined by former four-division world champion Adrien Broner taking on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados in the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING main event. Televised coverage begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and features WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan facing former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson and unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Additional action will feature unbeaten Indianapolis-native Curtis Hill Jr. (9-0, 4 KOs) in a six-round light heavyweight bout against Cory Dulaney (5-3-1, 1 KO) and unbeaten Cincinnati-native Santino Turnbow (3-0, 2 KOs) taking on Joe Miller Jr. (1-1) in a four-round cruiserweight showdown.

Rounding out the night is Cincinnati’s Desmons Jarman and Honduras-native David Quay in a four-round super featherweight and Atlanta’s Tra-Kwon Pettis (5-2, 1 KO) facing Milwaukee’s Mike Fowler (5-4, 2 KOs) in a four-round lightweight contest.

An unbeaten prospect fight at home in Cincinnati, the “Quiet Assassin” Clark picked up two victories in 2016 over increasingly quality competition as he stopped Elvin Perez in six rounds and earned a unanimous decision over Edgar Ortega. The 22-year-old last fought in his hometown in 2015 when he recorded a second round TKO of Joe Wilson Jr. and his fight on February 18 will make his third pro appearance in Cincinnati. He prepares to take on Benavides out of Chontales, Nicaragua who owns victories over Jay Krupp, Cody Richard and Joel Cerrud.

# # #

ABOUT ADRIEN BRONER vs. ADRIAN GRANADOS
Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados will take place Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH live on SHOWTIME. Televised coverage on begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. Also featured will be WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

Kelly Swanson
Thanks media for joining us. We are here today to talk about the big matchup on Saturday, February 18th, Adrien Broner versus Adrian Granados from Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati and it will headline a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING event.

The event is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions. Tickets for the live event start at $30 and are still available to purchase through Ticketmaster and the event is sponsored by Corona Extra, La Cerveza Mas Fina.

Before we get to the participants, I’m going to introduce Chris DeBlasio, Senior Vice President, Sports Communications at Showtime Networks.

Chris DeBlasio
Thanks Kelly and thank you to the fighters for being on and to all the press for joining. The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING winter schedule rolls on. As we had announced last October, our promise to our subscribers and to fight fans is that we would pit the top-rated fighters against the top-rated fighters in the deepest and most talent-laden divisions in boxing.

So far we have seen spectacular results. Just a brief recap, back in December we saw Jermall Charlo in a brutal knockout win over Julian Williams. We saw Abner Mares reassert himself against Jesus Cuellar and win a world title back.

The turn of the year on Jan. 14th we witnessed a thrilling super middleweight championship unification bout where Badou Jack and James DeGale were in a thrilling fight. On the undercard of that event, we saw a breakout performance from Gervonta Davis, who beat Jose Pedraza for his first world title.

Davis is now one of the youngest world champions today and just two weeks ago still fresh in our minds, Leo Santa Cruz won an awesome majority decision over Carl Frampton. That was another fantastic fight at featherweight and we saw an incredible Knockout of the Year candidate on that card from resurgent Mikey Garcia.

Mikey didn’t just knock out another champion, a paper champion of sorts or any type of middling contender. He beat one of the toughest guys at lightweight in spectacular fashion, so it’s pretty plain to see there’s no one making a bigger commitment to the sport of boxing than SHOWTIME.

We are consistently delivering the strongest lineup of fights directly to our subscribers and we appreciate all of you in the press as you guys have made note of that. Our subscribers have responded and tuned-in in larger number and we’re excited to continue next week on Feb. 18th.

There’s no prohibitive favorite, no look-good or stay-busy fight on this card. Adrien Broner versus Adrian Granados, both men are in need of a big win to lineup that next world title shot. For Broner we all know what he’s capable of. He’s a four-division world champion and one of the most popular fighters in the sport, still in the prime of his career.

Adrian Granados is very comfortable in the underdog role. You can look no further than his stunning upset of Amir Imam last year. Just a bit of housekeeping here. The SHOWTIME telecast is going to air live on the 18th of Feb. at 9:00 pm ET, 6:00 pm PT.

We had a short video feature that we released yesterday titled The Reveal with Mark Kriegel. This edition was on Adrien Broner and The Reveal, as you may know, is where Mark sits down with boxing’s biggest stars and he engages in candid conversations about life, about motivations and challenges and more.

Each of the interviews that Mark does for this series The Reveal, they’re unique, as unique as the subject in them and the one with Adrien Broner is probably the strongest we’ve produced so far so Adrien thank you for that candor in that and I encourage all the press to check it out.

We’ll have one on Adrian Granados available later this week so with that I thank you for your time and I’ll turn it back to you Kelly so we can get to the fighters.

K. Swanson
Thanks so much, Chris. We’re going to start with Mr. Broner himself and before he gets on the line I just want to say that he is wearing two hats as his company About Billions is very busy these days.

They have a big fight in Toledo, Ohio which will be Robert Easter versus Luis Cruz, that’s Premier Boxing Champions: The Next Round on Bounce at the Huntington Center in Easter’s hometown. That begins at 9:00 pm ET so Mr. Broner is acting both as a promoter and also preparing for his fight as Chris mentioned, he’s a former four-division world champion and has held world titles at 130, 135, 140 and 147 pounds.

He’s a thrilling fighter, very, very popular and I have to say myself watching The Reveal that there was a wonderful maturity and self-awareness that I’m so happy that Adrien has come to feel as he worked through his own legacy as a boxing champion. Mr. Broner are you on the call and could you make some opening comments before we give it to the press, Adrien?

Adrien Broner
Well, I really don’t have much to say. It’s fight time right now so you can bring them all in and I’m ready to answer all questions.

Q
How’s the weight going and do you think you’ll have any issues making the weight this time around?

A. Broner
Training camp has been great and like I said before, I’m just ready to fight and ready to go out here and put on a great show not only for the city but for boxing and we’re going to step it up from here on out.

I’m really not worried about the weight right now. It’s all about staying focused and putting on a great show for boxing.

Q
How different do you feel this time around Adrien?

A. Broner
I’ve just been more focused. Less distractions and just tunnel vision.

Q
Do you find that you’ve been able to be a lot more productive in training because of that?

A. Broner
Even in my last fight with the distractions, I still got a TKO so, let’s fight without the distractions and I can only put only a greater show.

Q
Adrien, what is your expectation with you and SHOWTIME for this year?

A. Broner
Well, I don’t look past any opponent and I don’t try to look past any fight so I just take it a fight at a time and my main focus right now is next week, February 18th.

Q
What is your experience fighting with guys like Adrian Granados?

A. Broner
I know he’s a tough competitor, world-class fighter and that’s why I picked him so he can bring the best out of Adrien Broner.

Q
What do you project for your weight class for your next fight?

A. Broner
Right now like I said before I’m really not worried about any weight situation. All I want to do is win and put on a great show for my fans.

Q
Adrien how helpful is it for you to go back, train in your neighborhood where you came from and realize where you came from and kind of help you to appreciate what you have now?

A. Broner
It helped a lot. It’s a humbling situation. I’ve been living the fast life and I’ve calmed down a lot and just coming back home and just seeing everything. It just brings me back down, right, so I’m in a great mind state right now and I’m just ready to put on a great show.

Q
How have your children changed your perspective?

A. Broner
It changed a lot. It’s not about me anymore, it’s about my children and that’s what I’ve based my career off of now. I’m doing everything for them.

Q
It seems like you’re kind of reenergizing yourself for another opponent with an opponent this tough. Is that what you were thinking?

A. Broner
Yes, I just know what I’m doing. To bring out the best Adrien Broner I have to have a nice opponent in front of me and that’s why I picked a nice opponent.

Q
My last question is about the potential for fighting for a title. Does that play into your mind? Would that be something you’re looking for if you do everything you’re training to do?

A. Broner
If you looked at my last two fights, you know nobody never stopped Khabib. Nobody never stopped Ashley. If I have a chance to stop Adrian Granados, then I’m going to take it.

Q
Where does what sounds like honest to goodness maturity come from at this point?

A. Broner
The situations, man, and just wanting to do better and be in better situations. That’s all. When you try to do it your way and it don’t work, then you got to make the right choices and start following all the right steps.

Q
Do you feel like that at this point of your career and of your life that you’ve figured-out a better way to handle the fame and the money and the stuff that goes along with being a famous athlete than you did maybe a few years ago?

A. Broner
I was young. I’m pretty sure a lot of people who’ve been as successful as me or even more successful than I am today, have been through a lot of the same things and I know one person to have and that’s Floyd Mayweather and he tells me all the time ‘You’re going to be okay.’

He says, ‘I’ve done some of the things you’ve done before but it’s all about learning from your situations,’ and that’s what I’m doing, I’m learning from my situations and now it’s just time to grow up.

Q
Can you even calculate how many rounds you did with this Granados and how were those sparring sessions?

A. Broner
We’ve done numerous rounds and I know he’s tough as nails and he’s got to bring it when he comes to fight me so I know this has a chance to be a Fight of the Year type of fight, but we’ll see once the bell rings.

Q
Is it correct to say then at various times you each had the better of one another?

A. Broner
This is boxing, you have good days, you have bad days but at the end of the day if you’re having more good days than bad days, everything’s okay. You’re going to have a day where something happens or you’re just not that focused that you should be and a fighter get off but at the end of the day, as long as you do what you got to do, you’ll be okay.

Q
Would you say that you and Adrian were friendly with one another?

A. Broner
Aw, man, of course. Of course. I love him. I love him to death.

Q
Okay, got you so this is one of those fights where and we’ve seen this lots of time in boxing where guys are real cool with each other outside the ring. They go and they try to win the fight, they try to do their best to beat the heck out of each other but when it’s over, friends again, right?

A. Broner
Of course. He’s a stud, I mean, he’s a stand-up guy. Anytime he needed me, I was there for him and it’s still the same way today.

Q
When you sparred Granados, was there a moment in camp that kind of got your attention or respect for Granados?

A. Broner
What happens in the gym I try to keep it in the gym, but I can say that every time that we sparred, he earned it, every time and like I always said, he’s a hell of a fighter.

Q
As you know Ed Brown was shot in December. I was just wondering if you had any thoughts on that? You know, he was pretty close to Granados and I understand you knew him as well.

A. Broner
Ed Brown was a hell of a guy, a special type of talent. I knew him since the amateurs. He was actually a close friend to me, but at the end of the day like I told Adrian in camp, there’s just some people you can’t save, you can’t save everybody and was a heartbreaking situation for Adrian but I was there.

I was a shoulder to lean on and I was there. He got through it and I tried to make his days better.

K. Swanson
Okay, Adrien any final thoughts before we let you go and congratulations on your promotion this Friday night too. About Billions is making a lot of about noise.

A. Broner
This weekend it’s about Rau’shee Warren and Robert Easter, Jr. and you know, it’s going to be a hell of a card it should be a sold-out event and then next week we got another electrifying card with great fights on the undercard and the main event is me, Adrien against Adrian, Adrien with an E and Adrian with an A in the end and the best Adrien shall win.

K. Swanson
Great, thank you. That’s an awesome statement. Okay, so we’re going to let you go because we know you’re busy and we will now have the media talk to Adrian Granados.

The hard-hitting contender Granados fights out of Chicago and he enters this bout against Adrien Broner on a five-bout winning streak including a very impressive stoppage over the then-unbeaten top contender Amir Iman in November of 2015.

So Adrian, I’d like you to make some opening comments about your upcoming bout against Adrien Broner on Saturday, February 18th from Cincinnati and live on SHOWTIME and then we’ll open it up for media questions.

Adrian Granados
Yes, I just wanted to say just thank you to God, thank you to my promoter TGB Promotions, my management team Journeyman Management, my team here in Chicago, my family and everyone who supported me. This has been a long time coming and a hard-earned fight and thank the lord I’ve got this opportunity and I look to become successful with this fight next Saturday.

Q
Adrien Broner was just saying on his version of the call that he discussed the Ed Brown situation with you after Ed’s tragedy and tried to help you through it. Can you elaborate on that and maybe how much he was able to maybe help you through that?

A. Granados
Me and Adrien Broner, we did develop a friendship during camp and it was a mutual respect.

He was there for me just like I was there for him, when he was having his scare, on the social media that everybody was worried about him, I guess he reached-out to his people and told them, I was there for him and I know he was there for me too during my tragic loss of my good friend Ed Brown.

At the end of the day, we’re both men and we’re both human, so when things like what has happened to both of us in the past few months happened, you kind of put the business and the boxing out the window and you worry about the person so yes, I appreciate him for that.

Q
What was he able to tell you that maybe helped you a little bit?

A. Granados
Just knowing that he was there, that was it, I mean, I had to get through that myself. I didn’t need anybody to tell me anything. Ed Brown, that was my best friend in boxing, that was my little brother in boxing.

I knew him the most out of anybody in the boxing world just because we spent the last 12 years pretty much side by side here in Chicago, we were pretty much always with him in the juniors as the lower weight and then once he got older, he was right under me at 132 and I was representing at 141 so like I said we were brothers of the ring and we spent countless days here at the gym, I used to pick him up, I used to drop him off.

I used to always tell him to stay out of trouble and like Adrien said there’s some people that you can’t save but that doesn’t change that I lost a good friend and a good man. He was just a great kid, he was always smiling, always positive vibes from him and you know, it was a terrible loss for boxing.

Q
Can you give me your view of how those sparring sessions [with Broner] went?

A. Granados
Yes, it was a great experience. It reaffirmed to myself that I belonged at that level, they were very competitive sparring sessions. They were very exciting and it was like I said it was just a reminder that I belong at this level.

I helped prepare Juan Manuel Márquez for his fight again Juan Diaz when he beat him by knockout and like I said it was a reminder that I belong at that level because as I was competitive with Juan Manuel Márquez, I was just as competitive with Adrien Broner and just what I got from the sparring was like if we ever fought, it’s going to be a very entertaining, very competitive, very high action fight.

That’s definitely what I’m expecting next Saturday. It’s going to be exciting for boxing. It’s going to be exciting for SHOWTIME and the people there in Cincinnati, Ohio, so it’s just going to be a great fight. I have a feeling like we’re going to make a classic.

Q
Do you think the sparring means anything when the bell rings in the real fight or does that all go out the window?

A. Granados
Yes, I’m definitely old school and I think that goes out the window when we’re under the bright lights, smaller gloves, no headgear, it’s going to be a free for all and may the best man win and the best man will win that night. Sparring is completely different from a fight, the show and the lights and just the atmosphere so I’m not banking on the sparring sessions we had.

I know that I can compete with him and that I can beat him and I know he feels the same way about me so that’s why we’re in the fight and it’s going to be an electrifying night come the 18th.

Q
What would a victory against Adrien Broner mean for you?

A. Granados
It would be a huge victory for me. I definitely believe it could change my life and the life of my family and the life of my teammates. I plan on coming-out with that victory however I understand the odds and the way that they’re stacking it up.

I’ve been in there with some great fighters myself like Lanardo Tyner, Kermit Cintron, Olympic gold medalist Felix Diaz, Frankie Gomez, undefeated Brad Solomon.

Adrien Broner’s a different caliber of fighter but I’ve got some thick skin myself because I know I won a lot of those losses.

I could easily be undefeated. I’ve always been the B-side and always had the odds stacked-up against me so I just got to thrive in the underdog position and which I plan to and yes, this is definitely the biggest fight of my career and I plan on taking full advantage of it.

Q
Was there a letdown in your last fight after beating Iman or what was the deal?

A. Granados
No, I was working on some different things I wanted to get my miles in, however, I did suffer an accidental head butt and I was actually sick with diarrhea actually for that fight. I actually had to use the washroom the whole day after the win. There was a yogurt that I had that was expired and it just didn’t sit well so I pretty much going to the washroom even one last time I had to go, before I went out to fight so it was just I was very dehydrated and that’s just a lot of things that you don’t know about that fight but either way, I got my rounds in.

Once I got going I got sharp again and just got back to work and Ariel came to fight. He knew this was a good opportunity for him to get another good payday but yes, there was an accidental head butt and I was suffering from diarrhea during that fight but I did finish the fight and I won, and that’s all that matters.

Q
What is it in your mind that makes you believe that you can beat him?

A. Granados
I just believe I’m a better fighter. He’s a tremendous fighter, a tremendous talent, I just believe that people underestimate my talent and they only see me as a one-sided fighter and one type of style and one type of skillset but there’s plenty there that the boxing world doesn’t know about me and I plan on giving them a hint of that February 18th.

Q
What weight is the fight at?

A. Granados
Yes, it is actually at 147. It was 142, but however it’s 147 now and this is just the way it is.

Q
So what happened, so the fight was initially made at a catch weight of 142 and then did Broner’s side ask for it to be at welterweight?

A. Granados
Yes, they did and it was kind of a take it or leave it offer so, I’m obviously not going to pass up on this opportunity and I accepted.

Q
Do you buy that this is a new Adrien Broner or do you think it’s going to be the old Broner? What do you think about all the talk that he’s a different guy for this fight?

A. Granados
I mean, that’s all up to him, I don’t worry about who I’m fighting or what their preparations are and what they’re doing. I have to worry about myself and that I’m the best Adrian Granados.

Good for him if that’s what it is and if it’s not he’s still a good guy. I know him as a real man and as a true competitor so more power to him if he’s turning a new page in his life and God bless him.

Q
If Adrien knows how tough this fight is going to be and you guys are capable of being so emotionally close and he knows how good you are, why would he choose you to fight in such a difficult situation coming off of a 10-month layoff and what does that say about him?

A. Granados
I totally respect that. I think he’s a great true competitor. I know he was brought-up the right way but once he got to the new level, he took a lot of tough fights that he didn’t have to, Marcos Maidana being one, Shawn Porter being another one, myself included, we’ve seen, he’s a true competitor.

He wants to be a great fighter and he wants to be remembered as a great fighter and that’s why I respect him for taking this fight, it’s at a time when really nobody’s trying to fight and no, there were talks of so many fights that would get on and fall off, get on and fall off.

I’ve been going through hell this past year waiting on a big fight and finally I got one and although yes, we do have a friendship and a mutual respect, we know we’re in the business and we’re not into team sports and there can only be one.

One of the fights he was talking with Ricky Burns and at the time I was the highest ranked available fighter because I know Number 1 and 2 had fights already setup and I was ranked Number 3 by the WBA and now I’m Number 5 but either way, yes, I mean, this is a true attribute to his competitive spirit.

A lot of people they didn’t want to fight me and I was calling people out and him included and he accepted it so I mean, this is great and it shows how much of a real man he really is.

Q
You just think he wants to bring out the best in himself and put it really put it on the line or do you think there’s a part of him that says I know he’s good but I have a little bit better?

A. Granados
It’s a little bit of both, he wants me to bring out the best in him and yes, obviously if he’s taken this fight, he believes he can beat me so that is what it is and I appreciate what SHOWTIME is doing putting on a great fight and giving me this opportunity and definitely giving boxing the best versus the best.

Q
You had said that or he had said that when Ed Brown was killed, you and Adrien were in camp together. Were you in camp together and if so, what camp was that?

A. Granados
That was the first time Ed was shot, the first time Ed was shot, I was in camp with him at the end of the Maidana fight. They all knew that Ed was very close to me. They all knew Ed Brown too so yes, he looked out.

That was my guy. The black and brown twin kids of Chicago, we were always at the same shows together. We were always good to see each other. If you seen me and I seen him, there was always a smile.

So you know it’s different here at the gym that we train at because he was the heart of this place and I feel like now I have this huge burden because everybody who sees me now thinks of Ed, and they’re like oh man, Ed always spoke so highly about you, and I feel like I have to be twice as great for both of us now.

Q
Can you characterize your give-and-take sparring sessions with each other?

A. Granados
Yes, they were electrifying sparring sessions, we were putting on a show for the camp and yes, that was bloody, some days we were both bloody. There were just two dogs trying to get at each other and I was quiet at first but I mean, I’m from the neighborhood, from the streets too, you can’t get too tough for me.

I’m raised in Chicago, we’re the murder capital of the world right now so I have some stuff to say back and that was entertaining, I actually got a lot more respect like, okay he’s not going to take that and he can talk some of his own too so it was cool afterwards.

We would just shake hands and go work and we would just chop it up, we got to kick it outside of the ring too and then he was a real cool dude. Like I said, everybody got their own outlook on him but I seen him as a cool ass dude.

He was down to earth, funny and he was a good cat, and it was electrifying sparring and it’s going to make for an electrifying fight and sparring is going to be completely different from the fight because you got less leather and no headgear and it’s just going to be me and him and we’ll see what happens.
Q
Have you ever fought at 147-pounds before?

A. Granados
Yes, plenty of times. I’ve fought Lanardo Tyner there, I fought Kermit Cintron there, Brad Solomon, also I fought the BKB fight with Jesus Soto Karass. The weigh-in actually was 150 for that fight.

Q
Are you going to come-in at 147 or you going to come-in lighter than that?

A. Granados
We’ll see what my body actually tips it off at, I believe he got sick and that’s what kind of threw off his camp. I was sick too as well. I was still planning on making 142 but he just made it easy on both of us and I still expect a competitive and an even fight and it’s going to be a great fight.

K. Swanson
All right, do you have any last thoughts Adrian before we let you go and wrap this call up?

A. Granados
Win, lose or draw, just know I’m coming to win. It’s going to be a great fight. Action-packed, Adrien versus Adrian, an A versus the E, AB versus AG so it’s just going to be a great competitive fight and the best man will win.

# # #

ABOUT ADRIEN BRONER vs. ADRIAN GRANADOS
Adrien Broner vs. Adrian Granados will take place Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH live on SHOWTIME. Televised coverage on begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown. Also featured will be WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online atwww.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

CHICAGO (February 7, 2017) – Hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados hosted Chicago media at the Garfield Park District Fieldhouse Tuesday as he prepares for his main event showdown with former four-division world champion Adrien “The Problem” Broner Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati and live on SHOWTIME.

Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT with unbeaten light heavyweight contender Marcus Browne meeting hard-hitting former title challenger Thomas Williams Jr. in a 10-round showdown and also features WBA Welterweight Champion David Avanesyan battling former two-time world champion Lamont Peterson.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions and K1 Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Granados has pledged to dedicate the fight to his friend and former training partner Ed Brown, who fell victim to the violence on Chicago’s West Side in December 2016.

Here is what Granados, along with his trainer George Hernandez, had to say Tuesday:

ADRIAN GRANADOS

“We finally have a huge opportunity. I feel I paid my dues. I know Amir Imam wasn’t a fluke. And the robberies on my record were just that – robberies. You get in the ring with Adrian Granados and you’re going to get a hell of a fight.

“I wasn’t intimated by Broner when we sparred and I’m not intimidated by him now. I know I belong in this fight, at this level.

“It’s a tough fight. People are saying I’m going to have to fight like Marcos Maidana. But I’m going to be Adrian Granados and I’m going to win my way.

“With our two styles it’s going to be a firefight. It can’t be anything but exciting. I have a great team behind me and I can’t wait to make everyone proud.

“Ed Brown was the heart of this neighborhood, and now I need to carry on his legacy. This is my opportunity to do something for my career, but also this community. I have to be twice as great, for me and him.

“Winning this fight not only changes my life, but it changes a lot of other lives. Beating Broner would change the sport in Chicago.

“It’s very motivating to know that I’m an inspirational figure for people in Chicago. It helps me get through those long days in the gym, when you don’t want to get up and train. I know what I’m fighting for and I use it as motivation.

“I started fighting in high school just shadowing my friends when they went to the gym. I asked my mom and dad if I could keep going and luckily they helped me get started and get on this path to where I am.”

GEORGE HERNANDEZ, Granados’ Trainer

“Broner puts his gloves on the same way we do. This is what we want. We want the big names. Beating Broner can get us to the next level.

“No one is going to give us anything. We need to earn it. We’re going to his backyard and we’re going to take it from him.

“This is one of the toughest areas to train in. If you can persevere through that you know you can make it in this sport. We could have gone away for camp but we wanted to stay here because it’s home. The only way to make this city better is by staying here and leading the charge and showing these kids that we can get away from that norm and bring better attention to this area.

“If Adrian can beat the hell out of this kid in his hometown that will send a message to all the kids in this community. It will let them know that you can succeed and do great things. Every kid that’s in here dreams of this opportunity. We’re ready and we’re not going to let it slip away.”

# # #

For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

CINCINNATI (January 10, 2017) — Former four-division world champion Adrien Broner hosted a press conference in his hometown of Cincinnati Tuesday as he prepares to return home to face hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados on Saturday, February 18 from the Cintas Center at Xavier University and live on SHOWTIME®.

The press conference featured Mayweather Promotions President Floyd Mayweather, who will help promote the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING card that begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

Here is what the participants had to say on Tuesday:

ADRIEN BRONER

“I’ve fought at home a lot and to come back with another fight like this is an awesome feeling. I know it’s going to be a great night. It’s going to be a great night for Cincinnati and for my career.

“We’ve brought Granados into camp for sparring before but I’m a much different fighter now. I know he is too and I think it’s going to make an exciting, explosive fight. Granados is no pushover. He’s not an opponent that anybody can just pick up a win. I knew Adrian Granados will bring the best out of Adrien Broner.

“I know that I have what it takes to take over boxing. To do that I need to focus 100 percent on boxing and crafting my skills. That’s my mindset and that’s what I’m focused on.

“I’m here to do less talking, and more fighting and smiling. I’m going to put on a great show on February 18. It’s all about putting on great performances and winning.

“I go into every fight with the confidence to be myself. If I do what I have to do, I can be victorious. Granados is coming to fight. I have to be focused because he won’t lay down.

“It’s just about me doing better. It’s about changing for the better and being as positive as can be. I’m not bringing negativity to anything I do.

“I won’t have any distractions fighting at home. I know how to block everything out and stay focused on what’s in front of me.

“I’ve been on the downside and the upside of boxing, but my name has made it through. I’m not going to take my talent for granted and I’m going to change for the better.

“It’s great to have Floyd and Mayweather Promotions involved in this event. Floyd has always supported me and I owe him a lot. He’s really been a mentor to me. He’s helped me stay level-headed throughout everything.

“Right now I’m all about my future, my kids, my team and putting on a great performance as a boxer. I’m always going to be entertaining, because I’m always going to be me.”

ADRIAN GRANADOS

“I’m confident that I’m more determined than any other fighter I’ll face. I’ll also have a few tricks up my sleeve on fight night. I haven’t shown everything in my arsenal.

“I was in camp with Adrien Broner when he fought Marcos Maidana, so I know him pretty well. I’ve been compared to Maidana, but everyone has their own style. I’m going to get this win my own way.

“I’m focused on what I have to do as a fighter. We have different weapons and we can mix it up and fight in different ways. The accumulation of my punches can wear a fighter down.

“It’s a great honor to be here and I’ve let Adrien know that I’m grateful for the opportunity. This is a great fight for boxing. There are a lot of great big fights out there and our fight isn’t as well-known, but if you know boxing, you know that I come to win.

“Adrien Broner is a great fighter. He’s a four-division champion and that’s no fluke. He’s fought everybody at the championship level. Now he’s giving me this opportunity and I’ve let it be known that the best man will win.

“We’re going to wait and see round by round. I don’t like going to the judges’ scorecard and fighting in his hometown, I’m going to try to get a knockout. I have to do anything in my power to keep the fight out of the judges’ hands.

“I’ve mostly fought at home in Chicago but I’ve always wanted a tough challenge on the road like this. I’m excited to step into someone’s backyard and be the villain who ruins the day.”

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions

“These are going to be two hungry lions in the ring, and that’s what it’s all about. It’s about giving the people entertainment. Adrien Broner is flashy, flamboyant and outspoken. He’s still young and has a lot to go out there and prove. He doesn’t just want to show that he’s one of the best, but that he’s the best in the sport.

“You have to go out there every day and prove you’re the best. Adrian Granados is always in action-packed fights and he brings excitement. This is a great matchup. These guys know that they aren’t fighting pushovers. It’s the best versus the best.

“Both fighters have great trainers and great teams. I’ve helped pave the way for these guys, but so have these trainers. They’ve helped bring these men to this point. I think they both have potential to be stars.

“The sport of boxing is so interesting and there are so many great fights coming up. This is an important fight for the sport in a stretch where there are a lot of exciting matchups.

“I’m proud of Adrien Broner. He’s had a minor setback leading to major comeback. He’s going to come back better than ever. But he can’t overlook this opponent. You can look up and all of a sudden you’re down.

“No one can overlook Adrian Granados. It’s a really good matchup. This guy definitely reminds me of Marcos Maidana. I don’t know if he can punch like him, but the style and aggressiveness is there. He’s always in action packed fights.

“Adrien has speed and power, but I’m looking to see Adrien throwing combinations. That’s what some fighters lack nowadays. We think too much about ‘Money’ Mayweather, and forget about ‘Pretty Boy’ Floyd. He had a 90 percent knockout rate. I think we need to see an aggressive Adrien that will throw combinations while staying smart.

“I love being a promoter and giving back to young fighters. I didn’t become a promoter to make money. I did it because I want to make money for fighters and make their dreams come true. My company is easy to work with, because we’re only focused on the fighters.

“I want both fighters to give Cincinnati and the whole world a great fight. You’re young, hungry and dedicated. Show the world what you’re about.”

RAVONE LITTLEJOHN, CEO of About Billions

“This is going to be a great fight for the city of Cincinnati. Adrien is undefeated when he fights in his hometown. We can’t wait to do it again.

“It’s been a year since Adrien’s last fight in Cincinnati and we’re excited that the time is now. It’s going to be a tough fight. Adrien knows that Granados isn’t easy at all.

“We’ve brought Granados in as a sparring partner before so we know what we’re up against. I think this is a perfect matchup for Adrien and the fans to enjoy a great night of action.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“We know on February 18 that Adrien Broner is going to bring his best. He’s one of the top stars in the sport and I know that he’s going to put on a great show for his city.

“Adrian Granados has only lost by split or majority decision, no one has ever dominated this man. We know that he’s going to be there to make this a competitive fight.

“We’re looking forward to working with About Billions on making this a great, sold-out event. This venue is fabulous and we think it will be electric on fight night.”

MIKE STAFFORD, Broner’s Trainer

“Adrien has been training hard for this fight. This is about winning. Adrien wants to win and he wants to compete. This is a going to be an exciting and explosive fight.

“This is going to be a great fight with a great undercard. It’s going to be a fun atmosphere and we hope that everyone comes out and supports us on February 18.”

GEORGE HERNANDEZ, Granados’ Trainer

“Mike Stafford and I go all the way back to about 1978 at the Olympic training center. We’ve trained a lot of guys together and I know him very well. I’ve come here to bring fighters for sparring since Adrien Broner was a little kid.

“Adrien Broner has the big name and every fighter needs a big name so that he can take that step up. It’s a business and we’ll mean business inside the ring.”

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For more information visit www.SHO.com/Sports follow on Twitter @AdrienBroner, @ElTigreAG, @SHOSports, @ShowtimeBoxing, @MayweatherPromo, @CintasCenter and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOSports and www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions.

CINCINNATI (January 10, 2017) – Former four-division world champion and Cincinnati-native Adrien “The Problem” Broner (32-2, 24 KOs) will headline in his hometown as he takes on hard-hitting contender Adrian Granados (18-4-2, 12 KOs) in the 12-round main event of SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING live from the Cintas Center at Xavier University in Cincinnati.

Televised coverage on SHOWTIME begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will feature exciting undercard action that will be announced shortly.

“I’m back at home and excited to get back in the ring,” said Broner. “I’m ready to fight. The boxing game isn’t the same without me. Granados is a solid guy who beat someone that no one thought he would beat. I know him well and I know there’s no doubt he’ll be ready to fight.”

“I’m fully prepared to go to war with Adrien Broner on February 18 in Cincinnati,” said Granados. “I’m very thankful to Tom Brown of TGB promotions and my manager Andy Zak for helping me get this big opportunity on SHOWTIME. I’m training hard and I will come out victorious on fight night.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by About Billions Promotions and Mayweather Promotions in association with TGB Promotions, are priced at $250, $100, $75, $50 and $30, not including applicable fees, and are on sale today at 3 p.m. ET. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

“This is going to be a great fight and a great step forward for our company,” said Ravone Littlejohn, CEO of About Billions. “Cincinnati appreciates when Adrien fights at home. Boxing provides a thrill that exceeds other professional sports in our area.”

“Mayweather Promotions is looking forward to co-promoting another event with About Billions, as Adrien Broner looks to put on a big show in his hometown of Cincinnati,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “We’re anticipating a big crowd to support Adrien as he takes on the very tough Adrian Granados, in addition to the exciting undercard bouts that should make this a great night of boxing at Cintas Center and live on SHOWTIME.”

“Adrian Granados has demonstrated his skill and his ability to compete in this sport multiple times,” said Tom Brown, President of TGB Promotions. “This is proven with his record of huge upsets. I am confident that February 18 will be no different. It will be another win and another big upset.”

At 27-years-old, Broner is one of the most accomplished and outspoken young stars in the sport today. After picking up world titles at 130, 135 and 147 pounds, Broner earned a belt in a fourth weight division in October 2015 when he defeated tough Russian Khabib Allakhverdiev via a stoppage in the 12th and final round in his last hometown appearance. Broner boasts a 9-1 record in world title fights on his way to picking up belts in four weight divisions. He will be fighting in his hometown for the 15th time in a pro career that has seen him defeat the likes of Paulie Malignaggi, Daniel Ponce De Leon, Ashley Theophane, John Molina Jr., Antonio DeMarco and Gavis Rees. Broner compiled a 300-19 amateur record under the guidance of his trainer Mike Stafford, who continues to train him throughout his pro career.

A tough fighter representing Chicago, Granados enters this fight on a five-bout winning streak, including his impressive stoppage over then unbeaten top contender Amir Imam in November 2015. Most recently, the 27-year-old dominated Ariel Vasquez over eight rounds in July. Granados has picked up wins over previously unbeaten fighters Mark Salser, Antonio Canas, Antton Slaughter and Imam. Granados’ defeats have all come in close contests and by either split or majority decisions. With a win over Broner, Granados can position himself for his first career world title shot.

LONDON (30 December) – One of the most eagerly anticipated fights of 2017 will air exclusively live on BoxNation when undefeated welterweight hotshots Danny Garcia and Keith Thurman meet in a world title unification clash on March 4th.

Taking place in New York, the pair will do battle in a matchup which already has fights fans licking their lips in excitement as the 147-pounders finally meet following a build up of bad blood over the past year.

Regarded as two of the division’s very best fighters, a victory for either one will see them propelled right to the very top of the weight-class.

Current WBC world champion Garcia, with an unbeaten record of 33 wins and 19 KOs, and WBA world title holder Thurman, also with an unblemished past of 27 wins with 22 KOs, will put their belts on the line when the two the big hitters go toe-to-toe.

“I just had to tell Keith that he’s next,” said Garcia. “I’m going to beat him down. There’s not much more to say. Keith is going to get what he asked for and now he’s going to face a big dog.”

“You have two big punchers meeting on March 4,” said Thurman. “I don’t see how the fight can go 12 rounds. I see myself as the best competition that Danny has ever faced.”

“The Channel of Champions” BoxNation will also be the only place to see the brash and flashy Adrien Broner (32-2, 24 KOs) make his ring return when he goes up against light-welterweight contender Adrian Granados (18-4-2, 12 KOs) on February 18th.

Former four-division world champion Broner will be out to enjoy a more fruitful time in the New Year as he looks to pave the way to another world title shot in 2017.

27-year-old Granados, however, has aspirations of his own and is currently ranked in the top five of both the WBA and WBC.

Despite undergoing a tumultuous couple of years, both in and out the ring, Broner remains one of the most eye-catching fighters around and his bout with Granados, and that of Garcia v Thurman are two premier additions to the early BoxNation schedule for 2017.

Jim McMunn, BoxNation Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to announce the additions of Danny Garcia v Keith Thurman and Adrien Broner v Adrian Granados to the 2017 BoxNation schedule. These are two highly anticipated world class fights and we are very pleased to be able to air these exclusively live on the channel. Garcia v Thurman without doubt has the potential to be ‘Fight of the Year’ and will have BoxNation subscribers on the edge of their seats for however long it lasts. Adrien Broner too always produces excitement – win, lose or draw – he is a fighter you have to watch and his clash with the tough Granados will be more of the same.”

BoxNation is available on Sky/Freeview/Virgin/TalkTalk/EE/Apple TV/ online at watch.boxnation.com and via apps (iOS, Android, Amazon) for just £12 a month. Buy now at boxnation.com.

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About BoxNation
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