Rising British Heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley will face American Michael Polite-Coffie on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s clash with Jermaine Franklin at The O2 in London on Saturday April 1, live worldwide on DAZN – as Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams will look to close in on a clash with rival Felix Cash, with ‘Ammo’ meeting River Wilson-Bent before Cash challenges Matteo Signani for the European Middleweight Title.

REMAINING TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED VIA STAGE FRONT
Cash and Williams have been slated to clash in a big Middleweight battle in 2023, and the fierce rivals will look to rubberstamp that showdown with victories in London. Williams (13-0 9 KOs) fights in the UK for the third time and in his second showing at the Greenwich venue, having stepped through the ropes in his fourth pro fight there in October 2019 and then stopping former World Title challenger Javier Maciel in February 2022 at Alexandra Palace. 

The 26 year old, ranked at number three in the WBA, ended 2022 with a pair of ten round wins over Kieron Conway and Simon Madsen, and will be looking for a statement win over Wilson-Bent (14-2-1, 6 KOs), the Coventry man who has boxed for the Commonwealth, WBC Silver and English Titles in the last year.

Cash’s European Title tilt was announced in February, and now his future American foe has been added to the bill, his clash with Signani takes on even more significance as the Wokingham man looks to make up for lost time after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins. 

Italy’s European Middleweight ruler Signani (32-6-3, 12 KOs) landed the title for the first time against Gevorg Khatchikian in Trento back in October 2019 before making successful defences against Maxime Beaussire in 2020 and Ruben Diaz in May 2021. ‘Il Giaguaro’ lost the belt to Anderson Prestot on a technical decision in June last year but avenged that loss in November.

Former British and Commonwealth Champion Cash (16-0, 10 KOs) is looking to add the EBU crown to his collection after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins. Cash and Williams went face-to-face with him in a fiery ringside encounter in Leeds after Cash’s December outing in Yorkshire.

Wardley (15-0, 14 KOs) is riding high after claiming the vacant British Title in November with a third round stoppage over Nathan Gormley at Wembley Arena in London, and the Ipswich ace returns to the capital for his fourth straight fight and third in that run at The O2, and meets American Polite-Coffie (13-3, 10 KOs) in his first fight of 2023, with the Floridian aiming to hand a first defeat to Wardley, who now has Solomon Dacres breathing down his next for a shot at the coveted Lord Lonsdale belt after he claimed the English Title in Newcastle on Saturday night.

Campbell Hatton (10-0, 3 KOs) is back in action after hitting double figures in Liverpool in March, and the son of British boxing legend Ricky will meet Staffordshire’s experienced Louis Fielding (10-7, 1 KOs) in his first eight round battle in the paid ranks and Essex’s John Hedges (7-0 2 KOs) lands his first eight round clash against Poland’s Daniel Bocianski (11-2, 2 KOs).

The previously announced clash between Craig Richards and Ricards Bolotniks has been postponed after Richards suffered a hand injury.

Craig Richards will face Ricards Bolotniks for the WBA Intercontinental Light-Heavyweight Title and EBU European Middleweight Champion Matteo Signani will defend his belt against Felix Cash at The O2 in London on Saturday April 1, live worldwide on DAZN.

Richards (17-3-1, 10 KOs) was originally scheduled to face Bolotnik’s (19-6-1, 8 KOs) on the undercard of Dillian Whyte’s close points win over Jermaine Franklin at the OVO Arena in Wembley last November but the Crystal Palace man was forced to withdraw after falling ill during fight week.

‘Spider’ returns to the scene of his spirited points loss to South London rival Joshua Buatsi last May while Bolotniks, who holds wins over Hosea Burton and Steven Ward, was last in action in April 2022 – decisioning Hrvoje Sep over eight rounds in Barcelona, Spain.

Italy’s European Middleweight ruler Signani (32-6-3, 12 KOs) landed the title for the first time against Gevorg Khatchikian in Trento back in October 2019 before making successful defences against Maxime Beaussire in 2020 and Ruben Diaz in May 2021. ‘Il Giaguaro’ lost the belt to Anderson Prestot on a technical decision in June last year but avenged that loss in November.

Wokingham’s former British and Commonwealth Champion Cash (16-0, 10 KOs) is looking to add the EBU crown to his collection after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins. Cash is on a collision course with American rival Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams and hopes to face the unbeaten contender later this year after going face-to-face with him in a fiery ringside encounter in Leeds.

“I’m expecting a great fight with Bolotniks,” said Richards. “He is a good fighter and a lot of people know that which will allow me to showcase how good of a fighter I am. I’m excited to be on this card, it’s ironic it’s the return of Joshua because I feel like it’s my return too. A win against Bolotniks puts me heavily in the mix with the big boys and looking to push on to big things.”

“2022 was a tough one for me personally but I’m determined to make this my year,” said Cash. “In 2023 I’m coming for all the belts and want the biggest fights possible, starting with the European Title at The O2. The work I’ve been putting in the gym with Tony Sims has been fantastic and I’ve never felt better, come April 1 everyone is going to see that I’m the real deal.”

Tickets for Joshua vs. Franklin are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300, £400 and £800 (VIP).

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and AXS from midday on Thursday February 9.

Tickets go on sale this week for former two-time Heavyweight World Champion Anthony Joshua’s highly anticipated comeback against American contender Jermaine Franklin at The O2 in London on Saturday April 1. 

‘AJ’ (24-3, 22 KOs) fights at The O2 for the first time since 2016 as he begins life under the tutelage of new head trainer Derrick James, returning to the scene of his first World Title win over Charles Martin to face another American contender in Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs).

Saginaw’s ‘989 Assassin’ pushed Dillian Whyte all the way in a close points loss at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November and is relishing his shot against one of the biggest names in the sport. Joshua is ready to begin his ascent back to the top of the Heavyweight division after suffering back-to-back losses to pound-for-pound star Oleksandr Usyk in London and Saudi Arabia.

Tickets for Joshua vs. Franklin are priced £40, £60, £80, £100, £150, £200, £300, £400 and £800 (VIP).

Tickets are available to O2 and Virgin Media customers via PriorityNOW.

Tickets are available via The O2 venue presale and AXS presale from midday on Wednesday February 8.

Matchroom Fight Pass members will be able to purchase tickets from midday on Wednesday February 8. Priority ticket info will be emailed directly to eligible members ahead of the on-sale time. 

General Sale tickets can be purchased via Stage Front and AXS from midday on Thursday February 9.

Former two-time unified Heavyweight Champion of the World Anthony Joshua (24-3, 22 KOs) fights at The O2 in London for the first time since 2016 as he begins life under the tutelage of new head trainer Derrick James. ‘AJ’ returns to the scene of his first World Title win over Charles Martin to face another American contender in Jermain Franklin (21-1, 14 KOs). Saginaw’s ‘989 Assassin’ pushed Dillian Whyte all the way in a close points loss at Wembley’s OVO Arena last November and is relishing his shot against one of the biggest names in the sport. British megastar Joshua is ready to begin his ascent back to the top of the Heavyweight division after suffering back-to-back losses to pound-for-pound great Oleksandr Usyk in London and Saudi Arabia.

This fight will be the first in Joshua’s new five-year partnership with DAZN to be streamed live, exclusive and worldwide on the digital sports entertainment platform, which is fast becoming the undisputed Global Home of Boxing. Joshua vs. Franklin will be included in the £9.99 per month DAZN saver subscription, making it the first fight in over eight years that fans do not need to pay an additional pay-per-view fee to watch Joshua. Beyond the UK, DAZN is available in over 200 territories. Simple to download as an app on Smart TVs, games consoles, tablets and mobiles, and subscribed to with one-click, being on DAZN will make this the most accessible Joshua fight ever.

“I’m looking forward to stepping back into the ring on April 1 at The O2 in London.” said Joshua. “Mentally and physically I feel ready. I want to put on a show and impress my coach as he has high standards. Franklin has a good style and a great attitude, which he has shown in recent fights. This will be my first fight broadcast on DAZN in the UK and it will be globally available on the platform. I want to thank DAZN for supporting both myself and the sport of boxing as a whole. I would also like to thank the team at 258 and Matchroom Boxing.”

“I’m ready to show the world why it’s time for me to take my place at the top of the Heavyweight division,” said Franklin. “Joshua had his time. It’s my time to shock the world! This fight isn’t going to the judge’s card. I will have win number 22 come April 1. That ain’t no April Fool’s joke.”

Alongside Joshua vs. Franklin, Matchroom and DAZN have announced its largest ever schedule of content for the first half of 2023 that will see even more iconic and emerging boxing talent, including five other premium fights, on its platform alongside an ever-greater roster of other sporting entertainment.

The following shows will be shown live and exclusive on DAZN with further fights and full undercard details to be announced shortly:

Saturday, February 18: Leigh Wood vs. Mauricio Lara
Hometown hero Leigh Wood (26-2, 16 KOs) puts his WBA Featherweight World Title on the line against big-punching Mexican Mauricio Lara (25-2-1, 18 KOs) as Matchroom’s 2023 schedule in the UK begins with a bang. ‘Leigh-thal’ memorably stopped Michael Conlan in the 12th and final round of his epic first defence of the WBA 126lbs title back in March 2022, knocking the Irishman out of the ring in brutal fashion to end their Fight of the Year stunner. ‘Bronco’ has been waiting patiently for his shot at Wood after their eagerly anticipated September 24 fight was postponed following a torn bicep suffered by Wood in sparring, but the Featherweight KO artist finally gets his dream World Title opportunity this month in what promises to be an epic battle between two knockout artists.

Saturday, March 11: Callum Smith vs. Pawel Stepien
The WBC’s No.1 ranked Light-Heavyweight contender Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) returns home to face undefeated Pole Pawel Stepien (18-0-1, 12 KOs) at the M&S Bank Arena as he looks to secure a showdown with unified WBC, WBO and IBF ruler Artur Beterbiev later in the year. A stacked undercard sees Australia’s WBO Global Super-Lightweight Champion Liam Paro (23-0, 14 KOs) put his title on the line against local favourite Robbie Davies Jr (23-3, 15 KOs) following his sensational first-round KO win over fellow Aussie Brock Jarvis last October. One of the hottest prospects in America Diego Pacheco (17-0, 14 KOs) fights in the UK for the first time as faces another step up against Little Lever’s all-action Super-Middleweight Jack Cullen (21-3-1, 9 KOs). Full undercard details to follow.

Saturday, March 18: Cyrus Pattinson vs. Chris Jenkins
Matchroom’s first NXTGEN card of the year at the Utilita Arena Newcastle features some of the very best prospects in the North East looking to take the next steps in their promising careers. Former Team GB standout Cyrus Pattinson (5-0, 3 KOs) faces his toughest test so far in the professional ranks against Wales’ former British Welterweight Champion Chris Jenkins (23-6-3, 8 KOs) while Tokyo 2020 Olympic Silver Medallist turned Welterweight prospect Pat McCormack (3-0, 2 KOs) looks to wow his home crowd against Italy’s Dario Socci (15-7-2, 6 KOs) in his first scheduled eight-round contest. Also on the card, Birmingham’s Solomon Dacres (5-0, 1 KO) squares off with Newcastle’s Robert Ismay (11-0, 4 KOs) for the English Heavyweight Title.

Saturday, April 8: Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez vs. Cristian Gonzalez
Boxing’s youngest World Champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez (17-0, 11 KOs) attempts to become a two-weight ruler when he clashes with Cristian ‘El Chicharito’ Gonzalez (15-1, 5 KOs) for the vacant WBO 112lbs at the Boeing Center at Tech Port, San Antonio. The 23-year-old sensation from San Antonio, Texas enjoyed a stellar 2022, becoming boxing’s youngest active World Champion in February, stepping in late to meet Carlos Cuadras for the vacant WBC Super-Flyweight strap in Phoenix and then putting on a stunning display in his first defence, stopping Thai star Srisaket Sor Rungvisai on his San Antonio home turf in June inside eight rounds. He was named the Fighter of the Year by ESPN in their midyear awards for 2022 before outpointing Israel Gonzalez on the ‘Canelo’ vs. ‘GGG’ undercard in September.

Saturday, April 22: Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov vs. Joe Cordina
Unbeaten Welshman Joe Cordina (15-0, 9 KOs) attempts to win his IBF Super-Featherweight World Title back against current belt-holder Shavkatdzhon Rakhmiov (17-0-1, 14 KOs) at the Cardiff International Arena. ‘The Welsh Wizard’ captured the famous red and gold belt with a stunning one-punch knockout of Japan’s Kenichi Ogawa on a memorable night at the arena last June. Cordina was scheduled to make the first defence of his World Title against Rakhimov in Abu Dhabi last November but suffered a hand injury that required surgery and was subsequently stripped of his title by the IBF. Rakhimov won the vacant title by stopping Manchester’s Zelfa Barrett in nine rounds on the undercard of Dmitry Bivol vs. Gilberto Ramirez.

Saturday, May 20: Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 2
Irish legend Katie Taylor (22-0, 6 KOs) fights in Ireland for the first time in her professional career, putting her Undisputed Lightweight World Title on the line once more against Puerto Rican star Amanda Serrano (44-2-1, 30 KOs) in an unmissable rematch. Taylor cemented herself as the greatest female fighter on the planet by edging out Serrano in an epic fight for the ages on an iconic night at a sold-out Madison Square Garden in New York last April. The global superstar retained her belts after a Fight of the Year contender with multi-division World Champion Serrano – the first women’s boxing bout to headline the famous MSG in its 140-year history, attracting an unprecedented audience of 1.5 million tuning in globally on DAZN.

Alongside this jampacked schedule of boxing, in the last 12 months DAZN has added 75 media properties to its UK offering, giving – in particular – combat sports fans access to the widest range of live and on demand content. The Professional Fighters League (PFL) partnered with DAZN to launch PFL Europe, the inaugural event will be held in Newcastle on 25 March and broadcast globally on DAZN.

In the UK DAZN is available as a Monthly Saver (x12) at £9.99, an Annual Super Saver priced at £99.99 and a Flexible Monthly Pass priced at £19.99.

How to watch DAZN

Watching on DAZN is simple and easy.
Go to the app store on your chosen device, search for and download the DAZN app.
Create an account, choose a plan and start watching anywhere – on your phone, tablet, smart TV and gaming consoles.
You can log in to multiple devices and enjoy top sporting content anywhere.
“What an incredible year Matchroom and DAZN have in store for fight fans around the world – and this is just the beginning,” said Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn. “The UK’s biggest boxing star Anthony Joshua returns to our screens on April 1 as he looks to reclaim his spot as the number one Heavyweight on the plant. ‘AJ’ has reset and refocused and he is on a mission to defy his critics as he kicks off his exciting new partnership with DAZN. Modern legends Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano run it back for all of the marbles at Lightweight in what will be one of the most iconic sporting events that Ireland has ever seen on May 20 in Dublin. Their first meeting at MSG last year was one of the very best night’s I’ve experienced in boxing and the rematch promises to be even bigger and better.

“Callum Smith is within touching distance of a shot at unified Light-Heavyweight ruler Artur Beterbiev and can’t avoid any slip-ups against Pawel Stepien on his Liverpool homecoming on March 11 and boxing’s youngest World Champion Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez attempts to create even more history on April 8 when he goes for gold at 112lbs against Cristian Gonzalez. ‘The Welsh Wizard’ Joe Cordina attempts to recapture his IBF Super-Featherweight World Title against Shavkatdzhon Rakhimov in Cardiff on April 22 and the young guns are out to impress in our first NXTGEN event of the year in Newcastle on March 18 – not forgetting the small matter of Leigh Wood vs. Mauricio Lara in just under two weeks’ time in Nottingham. It is without a doubt the best schedule in boxing and there’s still so much more to come. Watch it all live on DAZN.”

“This is the most eagerly anticipated fight of Anthony Joshua’s career, and, at DAZN, we are delighted to deliver it to fans in the UK and around the world as part of their monthly subscription, making it the most accessible ‘AJ’ fight in a decade”, DAZN CEO Shay Segev said. “Beyond our unrivalled boxing schedule, we are committed to building our library of sports content the UK. Our tie-up with KSI’s Misfits to create X Series and joint venture with Professional Fighters League to launch PFL Europe are just two examples of what we will do to deliver top sports content to DAZN subscribers.”

“We have worked with Anthony Joshua for five years, and we are incredibly excited to be kicking off our new UK relationship with him on April 1,” said Joseph Markowski, CEO North America, DAZN Group. “Being ringside for Taylor vs. Serrano at a sold-out MSG was one of the great sporting moments of my life; what an incredible atmosphere and fight. Alongside this blockbuster, the schedule we have curated so far features some of our best talent, Jesse Rodriguez, Callum Smith and Joe Cordina. All live and exclusive on DAZN.”

“This is the start of a hugely important phase for ‘AJ’ and it is exciting to be kicking it off exclusively on DAZN and at The O2 in London, a place he has had many memorable nights,” said 258 Managing Director Freddie Cunningham.

About Matchroom Boxing
Matchroom Boxing is the world’s leading boxing promotional outfit putting on major stadium and arena shows across the globe. Headed up by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn, Matchroom has been among the world leaders in major boxing promotion and production for over a quarter of a century since its launch in 1987. With an unrivalled stable of world-class fighters, Matchroom’s unique expertise in promotion, staging and television productions cements its position as the No.1 promoter in the sport.

About DAZN Group
DAZN is a leading digital sports platform in Italy, Spain, Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Japan, Canada, US and the UK.? Its wide range of exclusive content includes top-flight football from the world’s most popular competitions – Bundesliga, English Premier League, JLeague, LaLiga, Serie A, and the UEFA Champions League, in addition to the biggest sports from around the world – Formula 1, NFL, NBA, MotoGP and the UFC.? DAZN is a global home for boxing and combat sports through its partnerships with Matchroom Boxing the Professional Fighters League, and a global home for Women’s Football with UEFA Women’s Champions League and Finetwork Liga F.?DAZN is adding more and more sport to its platform to create a destination for sports fans.??

??DAZN is reimagining the way people enjoy sport. With a single, frictionless platform, sports fans can watch, bet, play, share, socialise, and buy tickets, NFTs and merchandise. Live and on-demand sports content, anywhere, in any language, on any device – only on DAZN.??

DAZN is available on most connected devices including smart TVs, set-top boxes, streaming sticks, smartphones, tablets, PCs and game consoles. ?DAZN can be accessed on Samsung, LG, Sony and Panasonic Smart TVs and on Games Consoles including Playstation and Xbox. Subscribers also have access to DAZN on their Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Chromecast and Apple TV and find the app on their iPhone, iPad, android and mobile.

DAZN is a global, privately-owned company with employees in over 25 countries. For more information on DAZN, our products, people, and performance, visit?www.dazngroup.com.???

By Norm Frauenheim-

It’s hard to believe anything Tyson Fury says these days. He’s the master of the rhetorical feint, an entertaining way of serving up distractions and misinformation. In Fury’s dangerous hands, it’s an art form.  

One minute he’s retired. The next, he’s not. One minute, he’s fighting Derek Chisora. The next, he’s not. It’s all nonsense, of course, from a heavyweight champion who either has too much time on his hands or just needs the attention. Whatever the reason, few are better at turning the ring into a personal stage.

Laugh at the punch lines. Suspend the believability.

The latest chapter in Fury’s ongoing routine involves Anthony Joshua. Fury has let everyone know that he wants to fight him, wants to fight him as soon as possible.

Of course, he does.

Joshua appears to be as vulnerable as ever in the wake of his second straight loss to Oleksandr Usyk, who won a split decision in a competitive rematch on August 20.

Other than the usual bruises, Joshua emerged from the loss in Saudi Arabia without any reported injuries.

But the absence of blood doesn’t mean there wasn’t damage to his confidence. Fury saw what everybody else did. He watched Joshua’s emotional meltdown in a bizarre exhibition immediately after the decision was announced.

He threw two of Usyk’s belts out of the ring. He grabbed the microphone and delivered a desperate plea, seemingly asking the crowd and television audience to believe in him. Joshua emerged from the loss unhurt. But it sounded as if his confidence was fractured.

Fury heard it. He also saw a fighter, still big and powerful, who had improved, perhaps because of new trainer Robert Garcia’s guidance. Joshua had Usyk in trouble throughout a dramatic ninth round.

In the wake of Usyk’s decision to not fight until early next year, Fury immediately turned to Joshua. Fury’s predatory instincts had to tell him the time was now. Fight him, finish him, before he has even more time to improve.

A result, perhaps, was sudden news that Joshua had agreed to a purse split for a fight projected for December 17. Forty percent for Joshua, 60 percent for Fury.

But Fury’s co-promoter Bob Arum isn’t buying.

“I really don’t think Joshua’s people are anxious to make the fight now,” Arum said to Sky Sports while in London for a Claressa Shields-Savannah Marshall/Mikaela Mayer-Alycia Baumgardner card postponed Thursday because of Queen Elizabeth’s death. “He’s come through a devastating loss and I think, conventionally, Joshua is going to want a couple of soft touches to get back in the swing of things.’’

It’s not exactly clear what — who – qualifies as a soft touch. Deontay Wilder is set to make his comeback from a devastating stoppage loss a year ago to Fury against Robert Helenius on October 15 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. Wilder faces some of the same questions that Joshua does when step back through the ropes. Still, his singular power is there, hardly a soft touch. A young heavyweight, unknown and inexperienced, might pose the least risk for Joshua’s re-entry.

Whoever it is, Arum is betting it won’t be Fury. He dismisses talk from Joshua promoter Eddie Hearn that an agreement on the purse split is in place.

“Eddie Hearn is just talking.,’’ Arum said. “Eddie Hearn, if he wanted to make the fight, he knows me well enough and knows I’m over here.

“…We haven’t really heard from Eddie Hearn. He’s really good at making statements to the press and television. But he’s not – I don’t think – anxious to make this fight.

“I’ve been in boxing a long time and the fact that Eddie and Joshua would want this fight is, to me, incomprehensible. It makes no sense. If I’m wrong and they decide they want it, they know where to find us and call. Stop talking to the press and talk to us and see if we can put it together.”

Hearn, a longtime Arum rival, had his own take.

“I’m not quite sure what Bob Arum has spoken about,’’ said Hearn, who said he has had multiple phone calls and exchanged several e-mails with Frank Warren’s Queensbury Promotions, Fury’s UK promoter. ‘’AJ has just finished his fight with Usyk. He has a couple of bumps and bruises, nothing major.

“Queensberry have the date held of December 17, and that is our preferred date to make the fight. We’re in continued discussions.’’

With Fury in the mix, the only sure bet is that discussion will continue, ad nauseam.

Oleksandr Usyk remained the IBF/WBA/WBO Heavyweight champion as he won a 12-round split decision over former champion Anthony Joshua in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

It was much like the first fight where, Usyk was swiftly boxing with some solid jabs and left hands. What was different from the first fight, Joshua was more aggressive and landed some hard body shots. Joshua seemed to hurt Usyk a couple times, but every Usyk had an answer for all of Joshua’s offense.

Usyk landed 170 of 712 punches; Joshua was 124 of 492.

Usyk, 221.6 lbs of Ukraine won by scores of 116-112 and 115-113, while Joshua took a card 115-113 and is now 20-0. Joshua, 244.5 lbs of Warford, ENG is 24-3.

Hrgovic Gets Off Deck; Beats Zhang By Decision in Heavyweight Eliminator

Filip Hrgovic survived an early knockdown and a few tense moments to gut out a 12-round unanimous decision over Zhilei Zhang in a IBF Heavyweight elimination bout.

In round one, Zhang landed a cuffing right around the head that put Hrgovic down.  In round four, Zhang was cut on his forehead.  Hrgovic was rocked several times with right hooks, but was able to eek out rounds down the stretch with combination punching.

Hrgovic landed 208 of 705 punches; Zhang was 154 of 395.

Hrgovic, 242.9 lbs of Zagrab, CRO won by scores of 115-112 and 114-113.

“That was for my father who passed away a few months ago. He was a special man. Yes (he has been on my mind), but my beautiful wife, Marinela, was with me in my training camp in Houston and was able to give me energy.”

“Yes, it was a very close fight, I was losing the fight, but in the later rounds I pushed myself and gave everything. I landed some huge shots, and the last six rounds he was just standing there. The knockdown, I wasn’t hurt at all, I slipped on his feet and lost my balance.

“He surprised me, he’s better than I had thought he was.”

Callum Smith Destroys Bauderlique in 4

Former super middleweight champion Callum Smith took out Mathieu Bauderlique in round four of their 12-round light heavyweight bout.

In round four, Smith dropped Baudelique with a hard left hook. It was another vicious left hook that dropped Bauderlique on to the bottom rope and the fight was stopped ‘at

Smith, 174.7 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 29-1 with 21 knockouts. Bauderlique, 174.4 lbs of France is 21-1

Jack Decisions Rivera

Former world champion Badou Jack won a 10-round split decision over previously undefeated Richard Rivera in a cruiserweight fight.

Jack landed 101 of 299 punches; Rivera was 85 of 411.

Jack, 199 lbs of Las Vegas, NV won by scores of 96-94 twice and 96-94 for Rivera and is now 27-3-2. Rivera, 194.9 lbs of Hartford, CT is 21-1.

Almaayouf Stops Alatorre in 1

Saudi-bred Ziyad Almaayouf stopped Jose Alatorre in round one of a four-round super lightweight bout featuring debutants.

In round one, Almaayou dropped Alatorre with a short right hand. Almaayouf ended things with Almaayouf sent Alatorre down with a flurry of punches and the fight was stopped at 2:55.

Almaayouf, 139.3 lbs of Los Angeles, CA via Saudi Arabia is 1-0 with one knockout. Alatorre, 136.9 lbs of La Paz, MEX is 0-1.

Ali Stops Nova in 1st

In the first female bout in Saudi Arabian history, Ramla Ali stopped Crystal Garcia Nova in the opening round of their eight round super bantamweight bout.

Ali landed a hard right hand that put Nova down and she did not get up before the 10-count at 1:05.

Ali, 122.7 lbs of Mogadishu, SOM is 7-0 with two knockouts. Nova, 122.9 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 10-3.

Andrew Tabiti stopped previously undefeated James Wilson after round five of their eight-round heavyweight bout.

In round five, Tabiti beat down Wilson and dropped him in the corner with a right uppercut. After the round, Wilson’s corner pulled the plug on the fight.

Tabiti, 216.7 lbs of Las Vegas, NV is 20-1 with 16 knockouts. Wilson, 238.5 lbs of Los Angeles, CA is 7-1-1.

2021 UK Olympian Ben Whittaker remained undefeated with a six-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated Petar Nosic in a light heavyweight fight.

Whittaker, 173.7 lbs of West Bromwich, ENG won by scores of 60-54 and 59-55 twice and is now 2-0. Nosic, 175.3 lbs of Vrgorac, CRO is 6-1.

Tall light heavyweight and Usyk stablemate, Daniel Lapin remained undefeated with a eight-round unanimous decision over Josef Jurko in a light heavyweight bout.

Lapin, 173 lbs of Kiev, UKR won by scores of 80-72 on all cards and is now 6-0. Jurko, 176.1 lbs Kosice, SLO is 9-7-1.

Traycho Georgiev took a four-round split decision over debuting Rasheed Belhasa in a super welterweight bout.

Georgiev, 146.6 lbs of Sofia, BUL is 1-3. Belhasa, 148.5 lbs of Dubai, UAE is 0-1.

Bader Al Samreen stopped Faud Tarverdi in the fourth and final round of their super lightweight contest.

In round four Al Samreen dropped Traverdi. A follow up flurry forced a referee stoppage at 1:16.

Al Samreen

By Norm Frauenheim –

Boxing and war are often confused, especially in the media. Great fights are called wars. Great fighters are warriors. It’s part of the hype. Sometimes, it’s part of the sales pitch.

Marvin Hagler’s wild stoppage of Thomas Hearns in 1987 is forever remembered as The War, which would later become a logo stitched in white across the front of Hagler’s blood-red cap.

Warfare as symbol and metaphor has always been part of the story. It’s there, a chapter in history, where symbol and sport become one. Joe Louis’ rematch knockout of German Max Schmeling in 1938 is considered a milestone, the first blows thrown in a looming World War.

But it takes a current war, long and lethal, to separate the symbol from the sport, the carnage from the circus.

Make no mistake, boxing is dangerous. But war is disaster.

Oleksandr Usyk reminds us of that, especially Saturday (DAZN, 10 am PT/1 pm ET) when he re-enters the ring for a rematch against Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia after weeks of duty in a self-defense unit in Ukraine.

He’s a soldier on leave. His fellow warriors in the fight against Russia will still patrol city streets and Ukrainian countryside while he goes back to work on a job that pays millions. But that job takes on a magnitude hard to overstate.

Impossible to imagine.

“My country and my honor are more important to me than a championship belt,” he said repeatedly throughout the weeks before Saturday’s opening bell.

Fighting-for-country is a well-worn cliche, especially at the Olympics. But Usyk, who fought and won Olympic gold for his country in 2012, will now fight for the Ukraine in a mission to inspire his nation’s fellow warriors.

Usyk, a family man with three kids, told reporters at a news conference in Jeddah Thursday that he’s been in touch with fellow soldiers.

“I receive voice and video messages from them with words of support and news that they are praying for me and for my victory,’’ said Usyk, who agreed to fight the heavyweight rematch at the urging of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. “They are holding their hands tight and praying for my victory. That motivates me.”

Attention to detail in the gym is about all Usyk could do once the deal for the rematch was done in mid-June. He upset the bigger Joshua last September, scoring a unanimous decision over the popular UK heavyweight. But the war at home also was impossible to shut out. It’s there, 24-7, on television. Its effect was there, too, evident on the scale early in training camp. He had lost weight.

“In the first month of the war, I lost 10 pounds,” Usyk told The Guardian.

He blamed it on stress that every Ukrainian felt at the first sound of a Russian missile and the first sight of a dead neighbor. But the pounds came back. If anything, Usyk looks to be bigger than he was in his September victory over Joshua for three of the significant belts. He’s expected to be around 220 pounds against the 6-foot-6 Joshua, who promises to be more aggressive with new trainer Robert Garcia in his corner.

There are questions about whether the added bulk will impact Usyk’s unique footwork and upper-body movement. Joshua, curiously passive for the last few years, is expected to unleash an early assault.

The unspoken question rests in how Usyk will deal with the unprecedented pressure that will follow him into the ring. An entire war-torn country will be watching. Usyk ensured it.

Initially, Usyk offered to buy the television rights. His plan was to make the fight free on his YouTube channel for everybody in the Ukraine. Then, promoters decided to simply give the rights to Usyk, who quietly did what Tyson Fury demanded between a couple of retirements over the last couple of months. Fury — still retired the last anybody checked — said he would fight the Usyk-Joshua winner only if the UK could see the fight for free. Fury also said he’d fight for only half-a-billion dollars.

Hard to know what Fury is doing.

But there’s no confusion about Usyk. In a rare moment when war and boxing will be impossible to separate, he’s fighting for warriors he left at home and warriors he plans to rejoin. 

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“This is the Unified World Heavyweight Title between two greats of boxing. It doesn’t get any bigger than that. Oleksandr Usyk; an Olympic gold medallist, the pound-for-pound number one, former Undisputed Cruiserweight and current Unified Heavyweight Champion.

“Anthony Joshua; also, an Olympic gold medallist, became Heavyweight Champion in his 16^th fight, unified the division in front of 90,000 people in his 19^th fight, and has changed the face of the sport around the world. Two tremendous fighters, two tremendous athletes, champions, and ambassadors of the sport that people in Saudi Arabia and all around the world can be inspired by. It’s been an incredible week and the best is still to come.”

Oleksandr Usyk, Unified Heavyweight World Champion:

“Good afternoon Saudi Arabia. First and foremost, I want to say thank you to all who made it possible for us to fight here in Saudi Arabia. Prince Khaled, thank you so much. It is very important for me, my team, my country, and I’m really happy to be here. It’s not my first time, it’s my third time in Saudi Arabia. I feel like I’m going to be here again and again. 

“We learned from each other in the first fight, but this is a continuation and the first round on Saturday will be round 13. We had enough time to study each other. We were born to compete for life, for belts, for everything. The one who does not compete, does not win. All our lives are competitions for something or somebody. That’s why we are competing. We’ve had enough time to study each other and this Saturday will be a great, great fight.”

Alexander Krassyuk, promoter of Oleksandr Usyk:

“Dear guests, it is a great honour for us to be here and to be hosted by Saudi Arabia. Thanks a lot to Prince Khaled and to the whole team at Skill Challenge Entertainment for the enormous work that has been done within the last couple of months.

“When we watched Usyk’s videos from the training camp we realised that he looks like a cyborg. He went through hell in the training camp in the last three months. It did not kill him but it made him even stronger. I’ve never seen him more determined than now. Not many champions in the world can share their experience going through the war and making their way to the ring to defend their Heavyweight crown. It was an extremely complicated challenge for him, but he seems to have passed it.

“He made his decision to take the rematch in these circumstances after he had received massive support from his Ukrainian compatriots. He was in touch with high-ranking military officers and he visited the hospitals with injured soldiers. In every conversation he heard words of blessing and support to take the rematch. People wanted him to fight. People still want him to win. People want the Ukrainian flag to rise, people want the Ukrainian anthem to be heard throughout the whole planet. Not many men in the world can deliver this to millions of people. Usyk is able to do that. He does that through the sport of boxing.

“It won’t sound fair from my mouth if I start to say how good this man is, since I’ve been his promoter for probably more than nine years. So, let the history judge how good this man is. I wish good luck to both fighters. Let the best man win.”

Egis Klimas, manager of Oleksandr Usyk:

“Good afternoon everybody. Thank you for having us here in this beautiful country, Saudi Arabia. I can’t explain my emotions for what I feel here – how friendly the people are and how warm we are made to feel. It’s unbelievable. We’re looking forward to coming back if possible/

“I want to thank Prince Khaled for putting this together. I want to thank Skill Challenge, Matchroom and K2 for finding their ways to work things out together. Of course it was a little bit bumpy as always but we made it.

“As far as talking about Oleksandr Usyk, I’m proud to represent him. I can tell you, I’ve never seen anybody in 45 degree heat to ride a bicycle for 100 kilometres. I’ve never seen anybody swimming the day before a press conference in London for 10 kilometres in the pool for 5 hours. I’ve never seen anybody hold their breath underwater for four minutes and forty seconds, almost passing away. I hope all of this is going to be helping him on Saturday night. Thank you, we’ll see you on Saturday night.”

Anthony Joshua, former Unified Heavyweight World Champion:

“Thanks to everyone in Saudi Arabia. My friends, my team at the front there Prince Khaled, Skill Challenge and his family as well. Shout out to everyone first and foremost for taking care of us while we’ve been here. That’s it. It’s a ‘must-win’ fight. Preparations have been tough, but I like the pressure. Robert Garcia, Angel Fernandez, members of my previous team as well; they’ve been pushing me, challenging me, ensuring I stay focused, and positioning me to get the job done and emerge victorious come Saturday night.

“This is what competition is all about; setting goals I want to achieve and being disciplined enough to follow them through. That’s competition with myself. As you mentioned with the belts, they mean something but that’s all at the end of the target. It’s not like I’m skipping the process. I’m focused on the process.

“I’m looking forward to it. I want to compete. I’m looking forward to it. I can’t really say much else but you’ve got to have a competitive spirit. I’m prepared to do whatever it takes and I’m looking forward to competing this weekend.”

Robert Garcia, trainer of Anthony Joshua:

“It was a great experience. It’s great being here in Saudi Arabia. Everybody has been very nice, and the hospitality has been brilliant. The team did their job, Angel Fernandez, myself and the rest of the team. The champion did what he was supposed to do. We’re ready, we’re ready to do it. It was a challenge coming off a loss and getting him to do the game plan and do it in training. At the end, the job was done. Anthony followed instructions. On Saturday night we’re going to walk out with those belts. I think he’s peaked at the right moment. This week has been pretty easy for him. He’s happy and he’s smiling with everybody. He doesn’t have any problems. That’s a good sign that things are going the right way. Training camp was awesome, sparring partners did a great job. We’re ready to bring those belts back home.”

About Skill Challenge Entertainment
SCEE is The Kingdom’s first fully integrated sports and entertainment agency focussed on combat sports and boxing. We remain dedicated to providing marketing, events and media services to associated brands across the nation in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. For more information or press enquiries, please email Ravi Samani on Press@SkillChallengeEnt.com

About Matchroom Boxing
Matchroom Boxing is the world’s leading boxing promotional outfit putting on major stadium and arena shows across the globe. Headed up by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn, Matchroom has been among the world leaders in major boxing promotion and production for over a quarter of a century since its launch in 1987. With an unrivalled stable of world-class fighters, Matchroom’s unique expertise in promotion, staging and television productions cements its position as the No.1 promoter in the sport.

Fight Week preparations for the Rage on the Red Sea stepped up a gear last night, with no fewer than 11 fighters from the historic card taking part in a Public Workout at Jeddah’s Saudia Airlines Club.

Main event fighters Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua, who have their second meeting at the King Abdullah Sports City Arena on Saturday, were among the boxers that gave attending fans and media a first glimpse at how they’re shaping up going into their Heavyweight showdown.

Oleksandr Usyk quotes:

The last few months have been very difficult for you all, how pleased are you that fight night is nearly here?

“I’m very pleased that I am going to fight very soon, and I feel happy about that.”

Has it been difficult to focus on boxing at any time the last few months?

“Yes, but I did it.”

Any chance that you can tell us what you’re going to weigh?

“You’ll see it on the scales.”

How much did you learn from that first fight with Joshua?

“I’ve been watching him for ten years already.”

Everybody in Ukraine is going to be able to watch this fight for free, which is fantastic. How pleased are you about that?

“I’m very pleased about that. Thanks, God, for everything. We all worked hard on it.”

Anthony Joshua quotes:

You’ve been out here for over a month with the new team, how’s it been?

“Saudi has been good to me. Shout out to everyone in Saudi. I’ve had a good time. Everyone at my hotel has been looking after me, everyone in the gym. It’s been like a second home.”

And good memories from last time?

“Yeah, and I’m about to create new ones.”

Will that experience help you?

“You know what I learnt? Previous experiences are helpful, but it’s all about what happens on the night, right. I don’t know how much it will help me but I’m focused and I’m just ready to get the job done.”

How much did you learn at Spurs last September?

“I feel like one of my main strengths is that I’m a quick learner, I’m a sponge. But ultimately, apart from all of the learning stuff, it’s a fight. It’s a fight. That’s it. Whoever throws the most punches and lands the most punches wins. That’s all that matters.”

Is it a case of showing something new or is it a case of getting in there and showing everybody who you’ve always been?

“Do my best. Just doing my best. That’s all I can do.”

I’ve got to ask you for a prediction, it’s the law!

“What’s everyone saying? (asks crowd). Inshallah! We’re going for a knockout.”

Also strutting their stuff at Jeddah’s Saudia Airlines Club was Zhilei Zhang ahead of his bout with Filip Hrgovic, rivals Callum Smith and Mathieu Bauderlique, as well as Badou Jack, Andrew Tabiti, Rashed Belhasa, and Bader Samreen. Rounding out the pugilists were Ziyad Almaayouf and Ben Whittaker.

About Skill Challenge Entertainment
SCEE is The Kingdom’s first fully integrated sports and entertainment agency focussed on combat sports and boxing. We remain dedicated to providing marketing, events and media services to associated brands across the nation in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. For more information or press enquiries, please email Ravi Samani on Press@SkillChallengeEnt.com

About Matchroom Boxing
Matchroom Boxing is the world’s leading boxing promotional outfit putting on major stadium and arena shows across the globe. Headed up by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn, Matchroom has been among the world leaders in major boxing promotion and production for over a quarter of a century since its launch in 1987. With an unrivalled stable of world-class fighters, Matchroom’s unique expertise in promotion, staging and television productions cements its position as the No.1 promoter in the sport.

JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – August 15th, 2022: Fresh from his incredible debut, rising British boxing superstar Ben Whittaker returns to the ring for his second fight this weekend as he faces a former foe in Saudi Arabia.

The Team GB Olympic silver medallist had everybody talking when he began his professional career in blistering fashion in Bournemouth just three weeks ago.

In a dazzling display, ‘B£NZO’ – who is also known as ‘The Surgeon’ – showed why many believe he is destined for world title glory as he blasted away Greg O’Neill with a devastating second-round stoppage.

Trained by SugarHill Steward, the 25-year-old matched his impressive in-ring prowess with an entertaining combination of bravado and showboating to immediately get fight fans excited about him.

And they won’t have to wait long for his next outing with the Tokyo 2020 Olympics hero now confirmed for a fight in front of 35,000 at the King Abdullah Sports City Arena, Jeddah on Saturday’s Anthony Joshua vs Oleksankr Usyk undercard.

Birmingham light-heavyweight Whittaker, 25, will go toe-to-toe with unbeaten Croatian boxer Peter Nosic (6-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round contest as part of the action-packed undercard, before the main card airs live and exclusively on Sky Sports Box Office.

Nosic, 23, boasts a 50% knockout record since turning pro back in June 2021.

Nosic and Whittaker are no strangers. On his amateur debut in 2015, the Croatian was stopped inside round two by the Brit – and Whittaker will be determined to repeat that feat in Jeddah.

BOXXER CEO and Founder, Ben Shalom said: “It’s great to have Ben back out so quickly on such a big show.

“His debut in Bournemouth was very impressive and we’re looking forward to a massive future.

“I’m sure we will see another entertaining performance in Jeddah and we look forward to seeing him boxing again on home soil very soon.”

Liverpool, England – 11th August 2022 – Fresh off his stunning stoppage win in Bournemouth last month, Burton battler Frazer ‘Big Fraze’ Clarke (2-0, 2 KO’s) is making a quick return to the ring for more heavyweight havoc. 

The massive Midlander has been added to the line-up for the BOXXER event taking place Saturday, 3rd September at the M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool, live on Sky Sports.

Tickets for BOXXER: Liverpool – which sees hometown hero Liam Smith debuting with BOXXER and Tasha Jonas fighting for the unified world title – are on sale now via BOXXER.com, with prices starting at just £30.

Clarke, who captained the Team GB boxing squad at the 2020 Olympic Games and won a bronze medal for his country, will be making his third professional outing when he enters the ring in Liverpool.

Last month, he stopped twenty-fight Argentinian veteran Ariel Esteban Bracamonte in the final seconds of the second round, unleashing a combination which showcased his trademark mixture of ferocious power and technical boxing ability.

“I’m so excited to be fighting again so soon, especially in Liverpool which is one of my favourite fight cities in the world,” said Frazer Clarke.

“Liverpool is full of great characters and fighters. And it is a city which I have very fond memories in, notably when I won my ABA title there. I’m looking forward to bringing an exciting performance to the city on what is a great show which has some great fights on the card.”

Ben Shalom, BOXXER Founder and CEO, said: “We’re massively excited about ‘Big Fraze’s’ future with us at BOXXER. There are so many big fight nights to look forward to. For now, it’s important to see him back in action as we build upon that journey. But it was clear for all to see in Bournemouth just how devastating he can be, with his impressive knockout victory over Esteban Bracamonte. Frazer will fire another warning to the heavyweight division when he fights on what is an unmissable card in Liverpool on 3rd September.”

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, “Big Fraze was on blistering form in Bournemouth and now he’s back in action, making a quick turnaround to get on this Liverpool card to give boxing fans in the north of England a chance to see the kind of firepower he delivered at last month’s battle on the beach. 

“This is Frazer Clarke’s third professional outing. He’s ended his first two well inside the distance and he’s surely going for the hat-trick in this one, as he continues his journey to greatness in what was once the gateway to the Empire, the great port city of Liverpool. Never a dull moment when Big Fraze is in the ring!”

Clarke, meanwhile, has also been confirmed as a studio guest on Sky Sports Box Office for the Anthony Joshua-Oleksandr Usyk fight night on Saturday, August 20th. Earlier that day, he will appear on Soccer AM, fronted by John ‘Fenners’ Fendley and Jimmy Bullard.

BOXXER: Liverpool sees the homecoming of former WBO world light-middleweight champion Liam ‘Beefy’ Smith  (31-3-1, 18 KOs), who recently signed an exclusive promotional agreement with BOXXER. He kicks off his campaign for a second world title in a clash with heavy-handed Hassan Mwakinyo (20-2, 14 KO’s).

Clarke’s fellow Olympian Tasha Jonas – who made history for Britain and her home city of Liverpool when she became the first British female to box at the Olympics – is gunning to add the WBC world title to her collection. WBO champion Jonas (11-2-1, 8 KOs) faces Sweden’s unbeaten defending WBC world champion Patricia Berghult (15-0, 3 KOs).

BOXXER proudly presents this event in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.

Visit Boxxer.com today for the best seats at the best prices. For media opportunities and accreditation requests, please contact the BOXXER media and PR team.

LAS VEGAS, NV (July 21, 2022) – Former Two Division Boxing World Champion and Global Philanthropist Badou Jack (26-3-3, 16 KOs) will make his Saudi Arabian debut on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk vs Anthony Joshua, August 20 in Jeddah against unbeaten prospect Richard Rivera (21-0, 16 KO’s).

Jack has been very active in the Middle East region with his promotional company, Badou Jack Promotions, having promoted the first ever PPV Boxing and Kickboxing card in Dubai in May of 2019 and working with other promotions to stage his own fights in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Most recently, Jack, dubbed “The People’s Champion” fought on the Floyd Mayweather exhibition in Abu Dhabi in May at the Etihad Arena, with a quick 46 second first round knockout victory. Previous to that, he made his UAE debut in Dubai with a 2nd round KO of Samuel Crossed.

“I’m excited to make my Saudi debut on such a big event on August 20 in Jeddah,” Jack stated. “This is another great event that Badou Jack Promotions is a part of and my team and I are looking forward to many more in the region.”

“I’m super excited for this fight and can’t wait to showcase my talent,” said Jack’s opponent, “Popeye” Richard Rivera, who is promoted by Joe Deguardia’s Star Boxing. “I wanted this fight for a few years now, so I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. It’s time for a veteran, Badou Jack, to pass the torch down.”

“We are thrilled to announce Badou’s Saudi debut on this mega event” Badou Jack Promotions CEO Amer Abdallah said. “We have a wonderful relationship with great partners in the Middle East and Badou Jack Promotions will continue to be extremely eventful in this part of the world. We are looking forward to making many more big announcements in the very near future.”

By Norm Frauenheim-

It’s a rematch full of role reversals. But one thing hasn’t changed.

The same question is there about Anthony Joshua, the underdog this time instead of the favorite, the role he surrendered in Oleksandr Usyk’s stunning upset by a one-sided decision last September.

The Usyk-Joshua heavyweight sequel, set for August 20 in Saudi Arabia, is intriguing at multiple levels. Usyk, fun and fearless, is a lot of things. He brawls, he boxes. He’s clever, he’s cruel. He has many faces, many styles. All of them have worked and the odds say they will again. Usyk is a 2-to-1 favorite in a rematch announced at a formal news conference this week in Saudi Arabia.

The key is Joshua. Can he change? Amend that. Can he re-discover the fighter he was four-plus years ago in a stoppage of Wladimir Klitschko at London’s Wembley Stadium.

Then, Joshua looked like history’s next great heavyweight. Klitschko’s reign was historic for its duration and efficiency. But his efficiency was so reliable that it suffocated the fabled division. Joshua reinvigorated it with a dramatic performance in a fight that drew comparisons to the Ali era.

There were four knockdowns. Joshua scored one, got up from one and scored two more in an 11^th-round TKO of Klitschko in what was then a fight for the ages.  

But the excitement ended quietly not long after the last fan of a reported 90,000 exited Wembley after that memorable fight in April 2017. A forgettable TKO of Carlos Takam followed. Then, a forgettable decision over Joseph Parker. And another forgettable stoppage of Alexander Povetkin. There was talk that Joshua had suddenly grown tentative, seemingly a fighter who had left his aggressiveness in the ring during the up-and-down drama against Klitschko, then 41.

Then, there was Andy Ruiz Jr. in a stoppage stunner of Joshua at Madison Square Garden in June 1919. That’s when the doubts about Joshua went from a whisper to a shout. Joshua just wasn’t the same guy. The doubt is still there, loud and clear, despite Joshua’s careful decision over a woefully-prepared Ruiz about six months later, also in Saudi Arabia.

Joshua still looked tentative, despite a Ruiz who had partied himself out of heavyweight and into sumo. Joshua fought as though he was there only to win. What he needed, however, was an aggressive stoppage, a definitive statement in an answer to the questions.

Then, Joshua followed up with a stoppage, this time a ninth-round KO of Kubrat Pulev, who went into the ring with only 14 KOs in 28 victories. Pulev lacked heavyweight power. He couldn’t hurt Joshua.

But Usyk could and did so repeatedly in a unanimous decision that left Joshua looking confused and again – tentative – at Tottenham Stadium in London. The doubt persists.

The key, however, might be there in what is the most intriguing change made before the rematch. Robert Garcia will be in Joshua’s corner. Garcia is known for teaching aggressiveness to fighters in the middle weight classes. It’s all about pursuit, moving forward and fighting off the front foot.

He’s there to stop Joshua’s retreat.

That, however, figures to be a challenge, both for him and Joshua. Garcia is not known for his work with heavyweights. His career includes 14 world champions, but never a heavyweight champ. Joshua would be his first. He’s known for his terrific work with Mexican-American and Mexican fighters. From Antonio Margarito to brother Mikey Garcia, Robert Garcia’s aggressive philosophy is there, in tactics and demeanor.

It’s a Garcia trademark. But will it work with a UK heavyweight, who is bigger and maybe stronger than the multi-skilled Usyk?

“I started coming (to the UK) in December,’’ Garcia said this week during the newser “I’ve been coming back-and-forth to work with Anthony. I see a different Anthony now. The way he thinks, the way he talks, everything he’s practicing, everything he’s doing in the gym. I think he fought the wrong fight, and that’s the past. That happened already. 

“We’ll see who’s the better man. We’re going to do whatever it takes to win those titles back. I know he can do it. He’s the bigger man, he’s the stronger man, he’s got the reach advantage.

“So, we’re going to take advantage of all that. Come that day, I think without a doubt, we’re going to have a three-time heavyweight champion of the world.

“We’ve got to be prepared for everything. Usyk is a great fighter. He’s got skills. He’s got reflexes. He’s got accuracy. He’s got everything. I think Anthony has all the tools to beat him. We just have to do the things in the gym.” 

And in the corner for what might the story of the fight.

The official countdown to one of the biggest Heavyweight rematches in the history of the sport has started with Unified Heavyweight World Champion Oleksandr Usyk facing off with Anthony Joshua in the coastal city of Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Billed as ‘Rage on the Red Sea’, Usyk vs. Joshua 2 is set to take place in Jeddah on Saturday August 20 with Usyk’s IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO belts on the line in a career defining Heavyweight clash, and the hype for the much-anticipated rematch is already building. 

At the start of a two-city promotional tour across Jeddah and London the two colossals of the sport lined up toe to toe as the sun set above the stunning Red Sea after the duo remained respectful during the first official press conference. 

Eddie Hearn, Matchroom Sport Chairman:

“It feels fantastic to be back. A welcome of course to everyone here, we want to thank Skill Challenge Entertainment as well for their hard work and everybody for their patience. It’s been a long time making this fight. When there’s a fight the size of this, coming and putting on a production like you guys want to put on, these things take time, so thank you to Egis and Alex, and Oleksandr Usyk as well. Of course, for our team, Anthony Joshua, 258 Management and Robert Garcia. This is all very nice, all very friendly, but we’re only here to win. Honesty, that’s all that matters. Last time in September was very painful, when the great Oleksandr Usyk dethroned Anthony Joshua. We’re here to be pleasant but we’re here to see this man regain those wonderful belts up there on August 20^th.

“Well thank you very much and thank you for all attending here today in Jeddah ahead of this huge event, ‘Rage on the Red Sea’, August 20^th in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It has been a long time coming. Back in 2019 we saw Anthony Joshua rematch Andy Ruiz and regain his World Heavyweight Championships in Riyadh. It was a tremendous event. Of course, the boxing world and the sporting world slowed right down through the COVID pandemic. Now we’re back, long overdue, and we’re delighted to bring what is the biggest fight in the Heavyweight division, one of the biggest fights in world boxing to the Kingdom in August.

“We’re delighted to be joined by not just Team ‘AJ’, with Anthony Joshua, former two-time Heavyweight Champion and his great trainer Robert Garcia. The Champion Oleksandr Usyk, the unified Heavyweight Champion, the former Undisputed Cruiserweight World Champion, his manager Egis Klimas and his promoter Alex Krassyuk.

“We’ve heard a lot about the growth of boxing here in Saudi Arabia, something that is very important to us as fans of the sport. It’s amazing to bring huge high-profile fights to The Kingdom, but even better to witness the growth of boxing here in The Kingdom, to see these great fighters inspire the next generation. We all know Oleksandr and Anthony are two great examples of what boxing can do for a young person, how it can change and how it can shape their lives. We really believe that boxing is a tremendous way to shape and mould the lives of individuals and to teach them all the things that are in important in life; discipline, respect, fitness, mental well-being, being part of a team and being part of a community. We feel very strongly that boxing can do that.”

Prince Fahad bin Abdulaziz, spokesperson of Skill Challenge Entertainment:

“We want to hold the biggest and best events in Saudi Arabia for our people and for the world to enjoy. We are living in unprecedented era for sporting growth in Saudi Arabia. We are inspiring a new generation and that’s what motivates us.”  

Oleksandr Usyk, Unified Heavyweight World Champion:

“I am very happy to be here in Saudi Arabia. It is very pleasant for me and my team. We are doing what we have to do to achieve our goals. I have never made any loud or bright speeches. To become World Champion all I did was work hard in my training camp and gym. That’s what I am going to do until the day of the fight and my boxing will make me happy.”  

Alexander Krassyuk, promoter of Oleksandr Usyk:

“Hello everyone. First of all, I want to thank The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the opportunity. It’s a big honour for us to be here. While thinking over the speech for this media event, I looked back at the press conference we had before the first fight, and the last words were, ‘let the best man win and we’ll see you again for the rematch’. Here we are seeing you again for the rematch.

:It’s an absolutely huge event, it’s a big honour to be a part of it. It took us a lot of efforts and will to make it happen. Probably in February and March, we had to face the challenge of war in our country. We were not sure that this fight would take place. But finally, we put ourselves together, we made the decision to get into the fight, and now we are here representing our country Ukraine with pride in our hearts. We are representing out country here in the new destination of sports in the world here in Saudi Arabia. Let the best man win. We’ll see you again for the Undisputed fight.”

Egis Klimas, manager of Oleksandr Usyk:

“First of all, thank you very much for having us. I want to thank Skill Challenge Entertainment, Prince Khalid, Ministry of Sport and the Saudi Boxing Federation for having us here. I’d like to congratulate Matchroom for putting this deal together with K2 Promotions. As far as the rematch is concerned, this bout is very important for both men. Anthony wants to get his belts back; he is with a new team and a new trainer. I know Robert Garcia personally, he trained a couple of my champions before, he is a great great trainer. Anthony did a good jo picking out this trainer. For Oleksandr it’s very important to keep those belts and to go further. It’s a very real possibility that the winner of this bout will go for the Undisputed Heavyweight Championship which will be historic. It’s a very important bout. August 20^th is going to be another historic day in the sport of boxing.”

Anthony Joshua, former Unified Heavyweight World Champion:

“I just want to say god is good, all the time, even through tough times. I’d like to thank everyone for coming out today. Definitely the hunger is still there. As I always said from the get-go, stay hungry. Just keep the motivation high. Blips happen. Things happen in life but resilience, mental toughness and consistency will always prevail. We’re still on the road, we’re still on the road to Undisputed for sure. It’s just a little blip in the road but I’m focused on the target which is sitting over there (points to Usyk).

“I’m focused on the goal, god willing I’ll perform, and I’ll become three-time Heavyweight Champion of the World. With Andy Ruiz I think a lot of people can see before the fight things weren’t 100%. You’ve got to be strong, thick skinned; we take our loss like a man. When I win, I keep it moving and I thank everybody. When you lose, you have to stay humble as well in defeat. We kept it moving and I knew I could come back again and do what I have to do.

“The fight with Usyk, he bust my ass for some rounds. I have to take that defeat like a man as well. I hold myself accountable. I’m someone who can admit when I’m wrong and hold my head high when I’m right. The fight in September, he was right, and I was wrong. Simply, I have to reverse that role on August 20^th. I don’t like to overcomplicate the situation because there’s simplicity in genius. Sometimes if you keep things simple you can achieve great things, so I’m just going to keep things simple, move forward and the date will soon come.

“I wish Team Usyk a successful training camp and safe travels wherever they go in the world. Same to my team, Robert has been great in the camp, my staff at the back there as well that have been helping me in my training camp. I wish all of us well. I wish you guys a safe few weeks and I can’t wait to see you all again in the stadium for a great night of Heavyweight Championship boxing.” 

Robert Garcia, trainer of Anthony Joshua:

“First of all, thank you all for being here. Thanks for having us. I want to congratulate Usyk and his team for all of the success they had. They’re great people and a great team. I started coming to the UK in December, I’ve been coming back and forth to England to work with Anthony. I see a different Anthony now; the way he thinks and the way he talks. Everything he’s practising and everything he’s doing in the gym; I think he fought the wrong fight but that’s the past. That happened already. Usyk was the better man, congratulations to him, but come August 20 we’re going to do whatever it takes to win those titles back. I know he can do it.

“He’s the bigger man, he’s the stronger man, he’s got the reach advantage, so we’re going to take advantage of all that. Come that day, I think without a doubt we’re going to have a three-time Heavyweight Champion of the World. We’ve got to be prepared for everything. Usyk is a great fighter, he’s got skills, reflexes, accuracy – he’s got everything. I think Anthony has the tools to beat him. We just have to do the things in the gym.

“He wants to be champion again. Like I said before, I have no doubt that on August 20^th he will be champion again. With the dedication that he has and the hard work that he puts in in the gym, it motivates me also to put more into the training camp and to come out with the win because I know how much he wants it. I want my first Heavyweight Champion of the World. I’ve had 14 World Champions, he will be my 15^th, but he will be my first Heavyweight Champion of the World and that’s big for me too.”

Abdullah Eid, President of the Saudi Arabian Boxing Federation:

“There is a massive focus on the youth of this country. We want our people to see the stars and get active in the sports they watch. We want our young people to participate. To lead healthy lives. From trainers, to coaches and referees, from gyms offering boxing for exercise, everything is focused on increasing participation.”   

An announcement on tickets will follow in due course. Sign up HERE for Usyk vs. Joshua 2 bulletins and ticket updates.

About Skill Challenge Entertainment
SCEE is The Kingdom’s first fully integrated sports and entertainment agency focussed on combat sports and boxing. We remain dedicated to providing marketing, events and media services to associated brands across the nation in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. For more information or press enquiries, please email Ravi Samani on Press@SkillChallengeEnt.com

About Matchroom Boxing
Matchroom Boxing is the world’s leading boxing promotional outfit putting on major stadium and arena shows across the globe. Headed up by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn, Matchroom has been among the world leaders in major boxing promotion and production for over a quarter of a century since its launch in 1987. With an unrivalled stable of world-class fighters, Matchroom’s unique expertise in promotion, staging and television productions cements its position as the No.1 promoter in the sport.

Unified Heavyweight World Champion Oleksandr Usyk will put his IBF, WBA, WBO and IBO World Titles on the line against Anthony Joshua in the coastal city of Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Saturday August 20. 

One of the biggest Heavyweight rematches in the history of the sport, Usyk vs. Joshua 2, billed ‘Rage on the Red Sea’, will take place nearly three years on from the historic ‘Clash on the Dunes’ event at the Diriyah Arena that saw Joshua reclaim his Heavyweight crowns against Andy Ruiz Jr. 

Under the patronage of HRH Mohammad bin Salman and in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 ambitions, the eyes of the sporting world will be on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia once more as ‘AJ’ aims to exact revenge over Usyk and take his place back at the top of the Heavyweight division. 

Joshua (24-2, 22 KOs) was dethroned as Heavyweight King by Ukrainian pound-for-pound star Usyk in September 2021 in front of over 60,000 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England on a memorable evening in boxing’s marquee division. 

Since the pair’s first meeting, former Undisputed Cruiserweight World Champion Usyk (19-0, 13 KOs) has gained further global attention after putting the rematch on hold to support his home nation on the front line during their ongoing conflict. 

Usyk said: “I have a goal, with the help of the Lord I will complete my mission!”

“What a roller coaster journey, fighting for the Heavyweight Championship of the World for the 12^th consecutive time,” said Joshua. “I won the belt, unified the division won another belt, lost the belts, became two-time Unified Heavyweight Champion and now have my date with history set to become three-time Unified Heavyweight Champion of the World. What an opportunity 

“Fighting championship level back to back has had its pros and cons, but I decide every day to get stronger, to learn from my experiences and grow. A happy fighter is a dangerous fighter and I am the happiest and most motivated I have been. 

“Thank you to the organisers, to 258MGT, Matchroom Boxing and to all the boxing fans across the world, with a special shout out to the Ukrainian fans who have been through a really tough time.”

Prince Khalid bin Abdulaziz, Chairman of SCEE, said: “This is another proud moment for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia bringing the biggest rematch in global boxing to our great country. Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua are both brilliant champions with different stories, skills and styles and the whole world will watch them go head-to-head in the ring on August 20 – we look forward to welcoming them.”

Eddie Hearn, Chairman, Matchroom Boxing, said: “We are thrilled to get one of the biggest Heavyweight rematches in boxing history made and give Anthony Joshua the chance to reclaim what he lost in London last September. Everything is on the line for this Unified World Heavyweight Championship bout and it could not be a bigger contest. We know Oleksandr Usyk is a great fighter and we saw that last time out, but I know Anthony Joshua is more determined than ever. It was a huge success to host Anthony Joshua’s contest with Andy Ruiz Jr. in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 2019 and we are looking forward to working with the country again to stage this historic event. So, no doubt all eyes of the world will be on the ring come Saturday August 20^th. This is a story of redemption, and the countdown starts now.”

Alexander Krassyuk, Usyk’s Promoter, said: “The rematch is on the way. The fight will be much bigger and more spectacular than the first. It is new history in the making. Being a part of this event is a huge honour. Our country is now fighting for its heritage. Our mission is to expand its legacy. With the help of the Lord we will achieve this.”

Freddie Cunningham, Managing Director, 258MGT, said: “We are on the verge again of another huge moment in boxing history and the career of Anthony Joshua. Since turning professional Anthony has never shied away from anything, he has taken every challenge and actively looked for the biggest fights against the best in his division. This is his opportunity to become a Three Time Heavyweight Champion of the World and he will put everything into achieving this amazing feat. A big thank you to our team at 258 MGT, SCEE, Matchroom Boxing and everyone who has helped put this together.”

An announcement on tickets will follow in due course. Sign up HERE for Usyk vs. Joshua 2 bulletins and ticket updates.

About Skill Challenge Entertainment
SCEE is The Kingdom’s first fully integrated sports and entertainment agency focussed on combat sports and boxing. We remain dedicated to providing marketing, events and media services to associated brands across the nation in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. For more information or press enquiries, please email Ravi Samani on Press@SkillChallengeEnt.com

About Matchroom Boxing
Matchroom Boxing is the world’s leading boxing promotional outfit putting on major stadium and arena shows across the globe. Headed up by boxing supremo Eddie Hearn, Matchroom has been among the world leaders in major boxing promotion and production for over a quarter of a century since its launch in 1987. With an unrivalled stable of world-class fighters, Matchroom’s unique expertise in promotion, staging and television productions cements its position as the No.1 promoter in the sport.

Oleksander Usyk outboxed Anthony Joshua to win the IBF/WBA/WBO Heavyweight titles in front of 68,000 fans at Tottenham Stadium in London, England.

Uyk boxed very well over the first half of the fight as he moved around and used great head movement to land some solid straight left hands. In round three, Usyk buckled with a left hand. In round three, Usyk landed a left that buckled Joshua. In round four, Usyk was cut over his right eye. Joshua worked himself back into the fight by getting through with right hands in the middle rounds.

In round 10, Joshua started to leak blood from his nose.

As the fight reached the championship rounds, Usyk stepped on the gas and landed some thudding shots and hurt Joshua on the ropes as the fight came to a close.

Usyk landed 148 of 529 shots. Joshua was 123 of 641.

Usyk, 221 1/4 lbs of Kiev, Ukraine won by scores of 117-112, 116-112 and 115-113 to raise his record to 19-0. Joshua, 240 lbs is 24-2.

Okolie Stops Prasovic in 3

Lawrence Okolie defended the WBO Criserweight title for first time with a third-round stoppage over Dilan Prasovic.

In round two, Okolie landed a right hand that followe by a right to the body that sent Prasovic to the canvas. In round three, it was a left to the body for the 10-count at 1:57.

Okilie, 199 lbs of London is 17-0 with 15 knockouts. Prasovic, 200 lbs of Montenegro is 15-1.

Campbell Hatton Gets Gift Decision to Stay Undefeated

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a dubious six-round decision over Sonni Martinez.

Martinez controlled the action and bounced Hatton around the ring, yet referee Marcus McDonbell scored it 58-57 for Hatton.

Hatton of Manchester, ENG is somehow 4-0. Martinez of Uruguay is 2-5.

Callum Smith scores Explosive 2nd Round KO over Lenin Castillo

Former Super Middleweight champion Callum Smith scored a vicious 2nd round stoppage over former world title challenger Lenin Castillo in a scheduled 10-round light heavyweight bout.

In round two, Smith landed an explosively perfect right hand that sent Castillo down and out. Castillo laid motionless as he was stretchered out of the ring.

The time of the knockout was 55 seconds.

Smith, 175 lbs of Liverpool, UK is 28-1 with 20 knockouts. Castillo, 175 lbs of Santo Domingo, DR is 21-4-1.

Marku Decisions Prodan

In a battle of undefeated welterweights, Florian Marku won a 10-round split decision over Maxim Prodan.

In round six, Marku began to bleed from his nose

Marku, 146.9 lbs of London, ENG won by scores of 97-93 and 96-94. Somehow a 3rd scorecard read 99-91 for Prodan.

Marku is 9-0-1. Prodan, 146.9 lbs of Milan, ITA is 19-1-1.

Follow all the action as Anthony Joshua defends 3 Heavyweight belts against former cruiserweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk in Lomdon. The undercard will feature a cruiserweight title defense featuring WBO champion Lawrence Okolie.

The action starts at 1 PM ET / 10 AM PT / 6 PM UK Time

NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED. THE PAGE WILL UPDATE AUTOMATICALLY

Round 1: Good right from Usyk..Rght from Joshua..Good left from Usyk…Right to the body..Straight left

Round 2 Good jab from Usyk…Straight left…Right from Joshua…Straight left from Usyk…

Round 3 Right from Joshua…Straight left from Usyk…Body…Jab…Straight left..Straight left Buckles Joshua…

Round 4 Right from Joshua…Usyk cut over the right eye..Left from Usyk

Round 5 Right to body from Usyk…Left to the body…Right to body for Joshua..Straight left From Usyk…Right  From Joshua…Right..

Round 6 Good combination from Usyk..Right from Joshua…Left to body from Usyk..Right from Joshua..Counter right…Straight right

Round 7  Jab from Usyk..Body shot..Left..Left to the chin….Jab and left from Usyk..Good Jab…Hard left rocks Joshua..Right hook…Jab…

Round 8 Right from Joshua…Good right..Left from Usyk…Right to bidy from Joshua..

Round 9 Good left from Usyk..Body shot by Joshua..Jab from Usyk

Round 10 Right from Joshua…Left from Usyk…Straight left…Blood from Nose of Joshua..Quick right from Joshua..Bigger cut over Usyk’s right eye..Joshua’s right eye closing..

Round 11 Jab from Usyk..Right from Joshua..Counter right..another right..  4 punch combination from Usyk..Good body shot

Round 12 Counter right Joshua…Double left from Usyk..Big left…Good jab…Big shots….Joshua in trouble

117-112; 116-112;  115-113 FOR THE WINNER AND NEW HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION –OLEKSANDER USYK

ROUND 1 Left from Prasovic..Okolie lands a body shot…

Round 2 Right from L Prasovic…Jab to body from Okolie..Left hook from Prasovic…Right from Okolie…LEFT TO BODY AND DOWN GOES  PRASOVIC..Big Right from Okolie..

Round 3 LEFT TO THE BODY AND DOWN GOES PRASOVIC..FIGHT OVER

Round 1: Left to body from Hatton..Big uppercut from Martinez//Left hook from Martinez..Counter from Hatton..Big uppercut from Martinez
Round 2 Left hook from Hatton…Good left to the body..Right to body
Round 3 Double left hook from Martinez…Left hook…Right..Hatton lands an uppercut…Left hook..Uppercut from Martinez..Right..Right from Hatton…Right
Round 4 Nice right followed by a left from Hatton…Good right from Martinez….Uppercut..Right to body…good left hook..Good counter…
Round 5 Hatton lands a right..Uppercut from Martinez..Body shot..Uppercut..
Round 6 Left hook from Hatton…Combination from Martinez

58-57 FOR HATTON

Round 1 3 Jabs from Castillo..Left yo body Smith…Right…Left…2 nice rights…Right..Left to body…Hook…2 Counters from Castillo
Round 2  BIG RIGHT AND DOWN GOES CASTILLO….FIGHT OVER

Round 1 Nice right from Marku…4 jabs and a right…Right from Prodan…
Round 2 Right from Prodan..bod/head combination..
Round 3 Prodan slips..2 jabs from Prodan…Left…Good Jab from Marku..Good right from Prodan..
Round 4 Right from Prodan..Jab from Marku…Good inside right hand…Jab…good left…
Round 5 Right from Marku
Round 6 Jab from Marku…Blood from nose of Marku..Good jab back up Prodan 
Round 7 Jab and right hand from Marku.  Good right from Prodan
Round 8 Good boxing from Marku
Round 9  Jabs from Marku
Round 10 Right from Marku..Overhand right..Good jab from Prodan…Left hook from Marku..Counter jab from Prodan…Right uppercut from Marku..Left from Prodan..

99-91 Prodan; 97-93 Marku, 96-94 Marku