Follow all the action as Badou Jack defends the WBC Super Middleweight title against former world champion Lucian Bute.  The action begins at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT with an IBF Super Middleweight title bout between James DeGale and Rogelio Medina….NO BROWSER REFRESH NEEDED

Round 1 Jack lands a left to the body

Round 2 Bute lands a right to the body..Jack lands a left to the body..Combination from Bute..Jack lands a right to the body and a left hook to the body..Left from Bute..right to the body from Jack..

Round 3 Bute lands a straight left…Cut around the right eye of Bute..Jack lands a body shot..

Round 4 Jack lands a right…Left and uppercut from Bute…Short left to the chin from Jack…Body work..counter shot..

Round 5 Counter right from Jack…Overhand left…left hook to the face..

Round 6 Jack lands a right to the body…Hard right…Right uppercut from Bute..3 punch combination..stiff right from Jack…Left hook to the head..

Round 7 Combination from Bute…Left and right from Jack…1-2…

Round 8

Round 9 jack working the body…Counter left hook…Right uppercut to the body

Round 10 Left and right for Bute..2 lefts and right hand for Jack

Round 11 Right uppercut from Bute…Bute getting better of exchanges

Round 12 Bute coming forward

117-111 Jack; 114-114 twice…..A DRAW

Round 1 DeGale landing the jab…landing head punches..right hook..body shots

Round 2 DeGale landing blistering shots…focusing on the body

Round 3 Medina working the body on the ropes..DeGale landing to body and the head…right uppercut from Medina..

Round 4 Medina lands a right..sweeping right from DeGale..Medina digging at the body..Combination from DeGale..Medina landing to the body…left uppercut from DeGale..Counter jab from Medina…body…

Round 5 Left from Meduppercut..ina..Right from Medina..Combination from Medina..Good exchange on the ropes..Right uppercut from DeGale..right…

Round 6 DeGale lands a jab…Medina lands a left hook to the body..right…Huge combination backs up Medina,..

Round 7 Left from Medina…right hook from DeGale…Both get in jabs…Left from Medina…Uppercut from DeGale

Round 8 Left hook from Medina..right from DeGale…Long right…Left hook to the body from Medina..Nice right uppercut and body shots from deGale..

Round 9 Hard uppercut from DeGale…Medina working the body…combination..Combination from DeGale…Right uppercut

Round 10 Medina coming forward trying to work the body

Round 11 Medina making the fight

Round 12 Medina lands a right…Counter from DeGale..right uppercut..Jab from Medina..Nice combination..Left from DeGale..uppercut..

115-113, 117-111 twice for James DeGale

Callum Smith is in Washington to keep a close eye on his future World title opponents as Badou Jack defends his WBC title against Lucian Bute and James DeGale MBE defends his IBF strap against Rogelio Medina at the DC Armoury tomorrow night, live on Sky Sports.

Smith destroyed Hadillah Mohoumadi inside a round on April 2 in Liverpool to become the number one in the WBC rankings and mandatory challenger for Jack, who landed the title against Anthony Dirrell last April and defended it against George Groves in September.

DeGale makes the second defence of his crown against his mandatory challenger, and speaking to the media in DC this week, believed that a fight with Smith would be a stadium-filler in the summer of 2017 – as the Olympic gold medal man looks to unify the division against Jack later this year.

“I am delighted to be here,” said Smith. “The two World title fights should be great. I think Jack vs. Bute it’s a really good fight. If the Bute that boxed DeGale turns up it will be really competitive but Jack will win on points.

“DeGale is too good in every department for Medina, he’s had six losses and every time he steps up he falls short. If James is not complacent he’ll win and win well.

“I’m mandatory for the Jack vs. Bute winner. If there’s a unification fight in the meantime I have no problem waiting for my shot – and when it comes, I’ll win that title.”

WBC Super Middleweight World Championship
Badou Jack – 167 ½ Pounds
Lucian Bute – 167 Pounds

IBF Super Middleweight World Championship
James DeGale – 167 ½ Pounds
Rogelio Medina – 167 ¾ Pounds

The winners will meet in a world title unification later this year.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in
association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.

# # #

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 28, 2016) – Four of the top super middleweights in the world shared a stage Thursday afternoon as Badou Jack, Lucian Bute, James DeGale and Rogelio Medina participated in the final press conference for their fights this Saturday, April 30 on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING from the DC Armory in Wash28ington, D.C.

Televised coverage begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT live on SHOWTIMEâ and features the WBC champion Jack battling the former champion Bute, while the IBF titleholder DeGale takes on the top rated contender Medina. The winners of these fights have agreed to meet in a world title unification later this year.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in
association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.

Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:

BADOU JACK

“Both of us can punch, both of us can box. Anything can happen inside of that ring. I’m always ready to go 12 rounds. Everyone knows that I’m always in shape.

“Anything can happen, but I want to fight James DeGale. First I have to take care of business with Lucian Bute. Both of us are in our primes. We’re young and confident and it would be a great fight.

“I have to take care of this former champion. He’s a really good fighter. Some people say it’s a 50-50 fight so I have to take this very seriously.

“I’m still training and preparing for this fight like I’m the challenger. That’s how I prepare for every fight and this is no different.

“A lot of people wrote me off and I came back stronger. I love when people doubt me. I come back stronger and show people I’m a world class fighter.

“I’ve always believed in myself. I’m mentally strong and I work hard. I had a setback but it just made me hungrier and it made me a better fighter.”

LUCIAN BUTE

“I’m thankful for this big opportunity to fight for the WBC title. My training camp was very good. I feel stronger. It’s two days until the big stage.

“I worked very hard for this opportunity. To be a two-time champion is a dream. On Saturday night you will see a new champion.

“I feel great. The pressure is not on my shoulders now. I’m not the champion, I’m the outsider. Badou is the champion and I think the pressure is on him. I came to Washington D.C. to perform, give the fans a good show Saturday night and the chance to become a champion for the second time

“I put on a good show against DeGale and that’s what led to this shot. I’m very blessed to be in this fight for a world title.

“Badou is a good fighter. He has a good background in amateur boxing, he’s a world champion, but he has nothing special. He does everything good but not exceptionally. I have more experience, more speed and I’m a southpaw. I think the advantage is on my side.

“I never considered retiring but there were three years where I had some physical and psychological obstacles. Now I’m back to being in big fights and I’m looking forward to taking Badou Jack’s belt.

“This is going to be a spectacular fight. I want to look good in there and leave no doubt. I’m more aggressive than I ever have been and that will make it a great fight. I’m here to stop Badou Jack.”

JAMES DEGALE

“Fight time is here. I’m feeling good and feeling fresh.

“Porky Medina is a good fighter. But there are levels to pro boxing and I am levels above him.

“Saturday night I’m going to show you a real performance. My last two fights have gone the distance, but this time it won’t.

“I’m the best 168-pounder out there. I’m here to prove that. There is no one out there that can test me. There are big fights out there and good guys, but I believe I’m the best.

“I like this tournament style. It’s the best boxing the best. It should always be like this.

“I’m starting to build a massive fan base back home and I haven’t even boxed at home as a world champion. Me and Badou Jack would be a massive fight in the UK with two titles on the line.

“I’ve got everything covered with my game plan, trust me. I’ve gone extremely hard in the gym. We’ve watched tapes of him and I’m feeling good.

“This fight I need to make a statement. On my last two fights, I’ve gone the distance and they’ve been against top quality elite fighters. This time – no disrespect to Porky Medina – a good fighter in his own right but he shouldn’t last the distance with me so I look forward to a good performance.

“Good luck to both men, but I’m coming for the winner of Jack vs. Bute. I want to unify the division.”

ROGELIO MEDINA

“I’m the youngest fighter on this stage. I’m also the hungriest fighter. This is the biggest opportunity of my career.

“I’m here to give it my all and take the most of this opportunity on Saturday night. My dream is to be a world champion and it is right in front of me.

“I feel very excited. I’m ready to go because of the long layoff. It has been a while but I have been in the gym. I’ve been training for many months and even though I haven’t had a fight, I have been training.

“I think that DeGale has a lot of good qualities as a fighter and I think that the fight is going to be very intense because I’ve been training hard for it. I’ve been training to put pressure on him and to make it an intense fight and try and knock him out.

“I’ve noticed that he’s a quick fighter, he’s fast. He’s got good technique but I also see that he sometimes likes to stand and trade and I hope that he decides to stand and trade with me so we can give the fans a good fight.

“A win would be the biggest moment of my career. It would have a lot of significance. Historically in Mexico I would become only the second super middleweight champion, which would be very important to boxing and myself.”

# # #

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

Leonard Ellerbe
Good morning everyone. It’s a bright, sunny, beautiful day here in Las Vegas. Thank you all for joining the call today. I just want to go over a few fight facts real quickly.

Tickets are on sale now, and they start as low as $25. They can be purchased online at Ticketmaster and all Ticketmaster locations. Our event will be live on SHOWTIME at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT

We’ll be bringing you a double header of super middleweight title fights. Our event is promoted by Mayweather Promotions, in association with Interbox and Matchroom Boxing.

The main event will feature Badou Jack versus Lucian Bute for the WBC Super Middleweight World Championship. Also on the card will be another very exciting televised bout. It will be featuring the IBF Super Middleweight Champion, James DeGale. DeGale will be fighting his mandatory challenger, Rogelio Medina. And the winners, all four fighters, have agreed to meet in a Super Middleweight Unification fight later this year.

Well first up I’d like to introduce Lucian Bute. He comes to us with a 32 and 3 record with 25 big knockouts. He’s fighting out of Montreal, Canada by way of Romania. He’s a former IBF with nine title defenses between 2007 and 2012.

His most recent performance against James DeGale was a very exciting bout and the fans were very impressed and earned him the right for this title shot. So without further ado, I’d like to introduce Lucian Bute.

Lucian Bute

Hi everybody. I think camp is going very well. Still very, very good. I’m very comfortable and very confident for this fight. All my hard work is done – just have a few days here in Montreal. Next week we coming in to Washington, DC. Everything is going well.

L. Ellerbe
Okay. Next up I’d like to introduce the WBC Super Middleweight Champion of the World, none other than Badou Jack who is coming with us with a 20 and 1 record, with 12 big knockouts. He’s fighting out of Las Vegas by way of Stockholm, Sweden.

He’s Mayweather Promotion’s top fighter. He won the WBC Super Middleweight Title with a 12 round majority decision over Anthony Dirrell last April. He retained it when he caged George Groves last September on the Mayweather-Berto undercard, which was a very exciting fight. So Badou, would you like to say a few opening words?

Badou Jack
Yes. How’s everybody doing? I’m very excited for this fight. We’ve been training for more than 12 weeks. We’re definitely ready. All the hard work IS done and I can’t wait to fight. I’m very, very excited. Lucian Bute is a very tough opponent, so I have to bring my A game. I feel we’re going to put up a very good fight, a fan friendly fight for the fans. Thank you.

Q
Badou, can you talk about your approach to this fight? How do you think you’re going to be able to win and retain the title?

B. Jack
I always believe in myself. That’s the main thing. I’m not trying to be fighting like no other fighter. I’m trying to do what I can do just to win. So I’m excited. I know I have probably the toughest test of my career.

I’m excited. I just want to fight. That’s what I want and to do my thing. I’m very, very comfortable that I’m going to beat him.

Q
What do you think are your advantages in this fight?

B. Jack
I think I’m a little bit younger, three years younger I think. I’m a little fresher I think. But he’s got a lot of experience. He got way more experience than both Dirrell and Groves. So you never know in boxing. It’s a hard business and he’s the guy up. We’ve been training real hard, so we are ready.

Q
Lucian, tell us why you think you’re going to be able to win this fight and capture this title.

L. Bute:
Like I said, my confidence before the fight with DeGale was not 100%. Now it’s back 100%. I feel good. I feel strong. The training time is going very well. I feel very comfortable. I think it’s a big opportunity for me to become world champion for the second time. I will do that in Washington, D.C.. I’m very confident about that.

Q
What happened before the DeGale fight? Was it the fact that you had one fight before that?

L. Bute
I was not comfortable maintaining my fitness. I had a long period to break. I’m healthy in this moment. Everything is going well.

I had one fight before DeGale, a tune up fight. Against DeGale I think I looked good and everybody saw I’m very competitive in the high-level fights.

Q
What did you learn from the Carl Froch fight that maybe you’re taking into this fight about how to manage the pressures of fighting away from home?

L. Bute
My last fight for the title fight was in 2012, and the pressure wasn’t on me. If I don’t have the title, the pressure wasn’t on my shoulders.

But now it’s different thing. The champion is Badou Jack in the United States and the fight is in Washington, D.C.. I’m very comfortable with that. I have no pressure. I’m coming in to Washington, D.C. , looking forward to become world champion on April 30.

Q
Now this will be your third fight working with new trainers. In what way have they changed you as a fighter? How has your style changed in your opinion now that you’ve been working with them?

L. Bute
We work very hard. Last year we started. We started to have chemistry where we understand by just looking at each other. We work very hard. I’m more aggressive in moving my head. Letting my hand go. I feel very comfortable with this, like Lucian Bute at the beginning.

What did Floyd Mayweather say or do for you to help you bounce back the way that you have from your one loss?

B. Jack
He just said that anybody can get caught with a good punch. I know you’re better than that guy you lost to. Just keep your head up good and bounce back. It was nothing that he really did to help me to bounce back.

In boxing anything can happen and fast. I proved that that was just a lucky punch or an accident or whatever. I proved that in my last couple of fights. So everything is good. It was actually a blessing because people were overlooking me because of that loss.

Q
What does it feel like for you then having been in the background or having people overlook you to now be in a headlining role on SHOWTIME in a fight coming up?

B. Jack
Like I said, it’s a blessing. I’m very, very comfortable, very happy and I’m glad that my opponent is very confident too. That’s what we want him to be. Just like the last two opponents, they were very confident. So I’m looking forward for to a great fight.

Q
The same question for both fighters is how do you like this tournament situation you’re in?

B. Jack
It’s something to look forward to, but you have to respect your opponent and you have to respect what’s in front of you. That Lucian Bute is a very tough time. So I’m thinking about him right now, that’s all. I’m focused on him. But, you know, after that we can talk about the next fight. Yes. I’m excited.

L. Bute
I feel great. It’s a big opportunity. But like Badou said, I’m very focused, very content in this fight. If I take this belt, after that we’re looking forward to have an opportunity to unify the titles. I would love to have a chance to unify the fight. But I’m very, very focused on April 30.

Q
How did you prepare for a strong punch or a strong left-handed punch like Lucian Bute?

B. Jack
Well I’ve fought southpaws my whole life in sparring and . I got a good right hand. I like fighting southpaws.

Q
Usually fighters don’t like to look far ahead like that. Are you taking maybe a bit too lightly this next fight against Bute?

B. Jack
Absolutely not. I never said that. So I said, like I just answered the other question. I’m fully focused on Lucian Bute. I still got to beat this guy too. So right now our only focus is Bute. After that we’ll see what’s next. In the future I will definitely move up the latter.

Q
Badou I’m just wondering if you are able to beat Lucian and wind up fighting DeGale, how much does it help to fight southpaws back to back and kind of get into a rhythm of training for southpaws and back to back fights?

B. Jack
I don’t know. It’s good to prepare for southpaws Like I said, it’s a very tough fight. So not looking past it I have to fight it. I got to be first. Then we’ll see.

Q
How did you think that Lucian Bute looked against DeGale? And if you could just kind of assess DeGale as a fighter as well.

B. Jack
He looked good. People wrote him off like they did with me. They thought DeGale was going to blow him out in a couple rounds. But he looked good. That’s why he got this opportunity to fight again for the title because he looked that good.

I think his style and my style will match perfectly. He likes to fight. I like to fight. We both got boxing skills as well. So I’m excited.

James DeGale is a very good fighter too. He’s got a lot of skills, speed, Olympic Gold Medalist. He deserves a lot of credit. He went to Boston and to Canada. He’s a good fighter. Another very good fighter.

Q
Were you more impressed with his win over Lucian Bute or Dirrell?

B. Jack
They both were similar opponents. I don’t think he’s been that active before that fight. I don’t know. But Lucian Bute is the former champion. He’s defending a lot of times. Dirrell was never a world champion, even though he’s on that level. But no, both were pretty good fights.

Q
DeGale is obviously fighting the same night as you are on the same card. What do you think of his fight? Obviously he’s a heavy favorite. What do you think of that fight?

B. Jack
As far as talent and skills, he’s way better. But I’m fond of Medina. I know what kind of tough guy he is, mentally very strong. And he can punch. He’s dangerous. So I would say again I would not overlook him because this guy is dangerous. But I think he’ll win but he’s just got to be careful.

Q
Lucian keeps saying the same thing about you. That you’re a good boxer, but you’re not exceptional. And that you make mistakes. What is your reaction to those comments?

B. Jack
I think that’s exactly what I want to hear. Lucian, he’s from the outside looking in. I am always in great shape. I know how to break an opponent down. Everybody is entitled to their own opinion and that’s his opinion. That’s good. That’s good for me.

L. Ellerbe
I would like to just comment that both fighters have been having excellent camps thus far. Both fighters are really looking forward to the fight on April 30. Both guys have a tremendous amount of experience.

We know that Lucian Bute, he comes prepared. He’s a former world champion. He’ll be coming to take away Badou’s belt. Badou on the other hand he feels very, very good being world champion. He’s made a vow that nobody’s going to take his title away from him. So we’re going to have an excellent fight come April 30. I’m very excited.

Now going to shift over to the co-main event, which is a very exiting match. We have James DeGale and Rogelio Medina. The winner of this fight will take on the winner of Jack versus Bute in the Super Middleweight Unification later this year.

I would like to introduce our promotional partner, a very dear friend, in my opinion one of the top promoters in the world. Definitely the top promoter internationally. He’s done a phenomenal job with all of his fighters.

I’m very, very impressed with all the work that he’s done with his stable of fighters over there. So without further ado, I’d like to introduce Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing.

Eddie Hearn
Thank you very much. Thank you. It’s a pleasure to be on the media call and to be involved with the show. I was very interested to hear the comments of Lucian Bute who I know very well and Badou Jack. I think you probably know that but he’s a great fighter.

I think he’s a really, really tough fight for Badou Jack. I think James DeGale has a tough fight with Rogelio Medina. But for sure that fight between Badou Jack and Lucian Bute is a wonderful fight. I think the stars will mix perfectly for a very, very interesting fight.

Of course we saw Badou Jack had a great victory over George Groves who is still attempting to win a world title. But the interesting thing about this unification is how it feels to have an old Super Six style where the best fought the best.

I think it’s wonderful for boxing that the whole world can watch almost like we said there a semifinal between four of the top Super Middleweights in the world. And the winners will go on to fight the winner.

Of course I’m biased. But in every tournament you have a seed. Number 1 seed in this tournament is James DeGale. I think rightly so he’s been insatiably the number one Super Middleweight in the division.

Andre Dirrell was massively underrated. I think the win against Lucian Bute was underrated and was also in Quebec City. The Dirrell fight was in Boston. This is not a guy who gets home comfort. This is not a guy who’s reliant on home canvas even. This is road warrior that’s traveling around the world to fight the very best, which is very, very unique in boxing today.

So I’m really excited about DeGale. I think his confidence is growing and growing and growing. He’s a chronical character, even out of the ring. I think he’s going to put on a wonderful performance on April 30 in Washington.

I think Jack, you’re going to see him in a very close fight. Then hopefully everybody can get what they want. DeGale against Jack in the unification title fight. These guys are ready to fight, ready to meet.

And I hope they both come through because I can’t wait to see that fight. I can’t wait to see James DeGale get a run as the top 168-pounder. So it’s a pleasure to be working with Mayweather Promotions, of course SHOWTIME as well.

I’m really excited to be down in Washington. I’ve not been there for a fight before. I’ve heard wonderful things. Be ready for a great night of 168 pound matches and two great fights and then hopefully the unification fight that everybody wants. Thank you.

He’s number one at 168-pounds and he’s traveling all over the world to be the best. Probably sitting on a beach in Miami, tapering down after another great time with his trainer

The current IBF Super Middleweight Champion of the world, James “Chunky” DeGale.

James DeGale
The Champ. Hi. Yes, I’m feeling great man. I’m feeling real good. I was training extremely, extremely hard, as always. Feeling good. I can’t wait for the 30th. I’m not looking past Medina. He’s a very good fighter. A tough fighter in his own right.

Every time he steps up to the highest level. He’s lost. On the 30th of April he’s going to lose again and I’m going to look unbelievable. Hello. Can you hear me?

I know I’m the best 168 out there. I’m the best 168 out there and I need to prove it. I’m willing to do that.

Q
How much easier is it getting for you to get into the ring not in front of your home crowd?

J. DeGale
I’m used to it if I’m being honest. Listen, I won my Olympic Gold Medal away from home. I won my world title away from home. I’m actually getting used to it. That’s what I’m saying. So this is why I keep on telling you people, I’m a road warrior because I’m willing to go anywhere to fight anywhere and to prove I’m the best.

But listen, my homecoming is coming as well. Yes that’s coming very soon. Once I beat Medina on the 30th of April, I want the Unification belt in London in front of my home people.

Q
Would that be as early as September?

J. DeGale
Yes well I’m ready, listen, I’m ready to go as soon as I come through this with no bumps, not swollen. So I’m ready to go, September is perfect for me.

Q
How much of a motivation factor is this tournament event on April 30 for you?

J. DeGale
It’s good. It’s good. This is what boxing needs. The best boxing the best. As I say, all I want to do is win titles and add the WBC title to my IBF would be fantastic because these days there’s not many unification fights because people don’t want to fight the best. But there’s four or five that come together in like a little tournament, like a mini tournament. And we’re going to see who the best is.

Q
How do you look at the possible prospective of having to fight Lucian once again in the fall?

J. DeGale
If I’m being honest, I don’t really want to fight Lucian Bute again. I think I beat him last time and I beat him pretty well. It was pretty convincing. I had everything against me as well. I still beat him well.

I want to box fresh a new world champion, someone like Badou Jack. I think the clash of stars would be fantastic. We’re both hungry. We’re both here. And we’re peak. I think it would be a fantastic fight. But if Lucian Bute wins, we can do it again as I say. But this time around we’re doing it in London.

Q
What you think of Badou Jack and how he’s kind of come along as a world champion, particularly in his last fight against George Groves? How do you think a fight against him would go?

J. DeGale
Listen, I think Badou Jack is a very good fighter. I think he’s come on as he’s become world champion, he’s growing in confidence. He’s become a better all-around fighter.

A couple fights ago, even I underrated him. I thought he wasn’t all that. But he’s proven in these last couple fights against Groves and against Dirrell that that guy is a worthy world champion and he can fight.

But as I said, I’m the best Super Middleweight in the world. I’m willing to prove that.

Q
What do you expect, James, to happen in the fight between Bute and Badou Jack?

J. DeGale
I expect the fight to be a competitive fight. Bute is still great, as you see against me. He just came up just short. He just didn’t have it. But Lucian Bute is a very good fighter. It should be a battle. It’s Badou Jack, and I think he’s going to win. But it wouldn’t surprise me if Bute pulls it off.

Q
Everybody’s pretty much writing Medina off based on his rep. What do you know about him, because he’s going to be going with absolutely nothing to lose?

J. DeGale
Okay. I know that he’s a typical Mexican and a tough Mexican. I know he loves to have a fight. He’s tough. He’s strong. He’s game. But every time he steps to the highest level, right, he’s lost. He’s been stopped or he’s lost.

I’m not overlooking him. I’m training extremely hard. I’m going to win and look good. I’m looking to the point of a proper show, a good standout performance.

Q
Are you going to, in your mind, try to compare your performance against him to Badou Jack’s because he scored a TKO against him in 2013. So he obviously can’t do that. But do you got it set in your mind that you want to go for a knock out to make that point?

J. DeGale
Yes. Listen, if a knockout comes, it comes. But the way I’m feeling and my momentum, my confidence is sky high. It’s sky high. And someone like – as I said before, no disrespect to Medina. He’s a good fighter in his own right. But I’m a couple levels above him. I’m elite. I’m an elite fighter. I’m the best in the division. So I should have no problems in the fight.

Q
How do you just focus on this fight and then take care of what happens afterwards?

J. DeGale
Listen, I’m a true professional. I’m fully focused. I take one fight as it comes. The first step is “Porky” Medina. But I’ll be ready for that. Then we can move on to the next fight.

J. DeGale
I don’t really. Well actually I do like making predictions, but my last couple have been wrong. But let’s have a bit of fun to make one. Again, I say within six rounds I’m going to stop Medina.

Q
James, you said you would rather Badou Jack to win against Lucian because you already fought Lucian. But would you think about not going for the unification fight if Lucian wins it? And just maybe challenge one of the other champions in the other organizations?

J. DeGale
Maybe. It depends. I want that WBC. It’s been around for years. It’s one of the oldest belts. It’s probably the most prestigious belt. So I want to add that to my collection. So if Lucian Bute wins, we can do it. But next time we do it in London. It’s simple.

Q
Would you rather try to get four belts at 168 before moving up?

J. DeGale
Yes. I would love to. As I say, I just want to prove to everyone I’m the best Super Middleweight. First I want to clear up the Super Middleweight division.

Would you like to see more of these types of tournaments?

J. DeGale
I would. I would. As I say before that unification fights rarely happen these days. It’s pretty sad. But yes, I would like to seethe best box the best. The champions boxing champions. That’s how boxing should be.

Q
Just if you had one advice to Badou Jack for winning against Bute, what could you say to him?

J. DeGale
What shall I say to him? Just be fully, just fully focused. And don’t overlook Lucian Bute because he’s still a force in the Super Middleweight Division. He’s still got a bit left. So as I say, he’s got to be switched on and fully focused.

L. Ellerbe
Thank you James for those wonderful comments. I’d just like to touch on one thing. I’m very, very excited too for your fight with Rogelio. I know it’s going to be a very, very exciting fight. Honestly, Badou is looking very forward to fighting Lucian.

just wanted to add, he’s been begging me, and when I say begging me, begging me. If he gets past Bute, he’s very, very excited, looking forward to fighting you.

J. DeGale
Fantastic. I hope you are a man to your word. I hope you and Badou Jack are a man to your word. That would be a fantastic fight. If you come through it fast to United Kingdom that would be an honor. Trust me, but as said before, I’m the best in the division and I want to prove it. So can’t wait.

L. Ellerbe
Yes. I would like to thank everyone for joining us on this wonderful call today. We have a very, very exciting card, as you’ve heard from the fighters, on April 30 in Washington, D.C.

This fight will be immediately following the PBC on FOX show which will feature headline Andre Berto versus Victor Ortiz. So that should be a tremendous fight. And I’d like to thank everyone again for joining the call.

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

LAS VEGAS (April 18, 2016) – WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Badou Jack and former world champion Lucian Bute hosted media workouts at their respective training camps last week to discuss their Saturday, April 30 world title showdown live on SHOWTIME from the DC Armory in Washington, D.C.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® doubleheader begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with IBF Super Middleweight World Champion James DeGale defending his title against top contender Rogelio Medina.

Jack, who welcomed his first child, a daughter named Malaniyah, earlier in the day, held his workout at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas while Bute hosted media at the gym owned by the Grant brothers in the western part of Montreal. Joining Jack at the Las Vegas workout were lightweight contender Sharif Bogere and Washington, D.C. born Latondria Jones, who compete in undercard action on April 30.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations or call (800) 745-3000.

Here is what the participants had to say:

BADOU JACK

“I’m looking forward to another victory. This is going to be a tough fight, but I’m ready. I’ve been training really hard and I’m ready to get into the ring.

“I’m more focused and determined now than ever to secure what is mine. The fans will have an exciting show to look forward to on April 30. I can guarantee that!

“My daughter being born this morning is extra motivation for me and to continue working hard to provide for my family. I only slept for 2 hours, but I feel brand new.

“I still feel fresh! Training camp is good. Everything is right on schedule. I’m feeling really focused.”

LUCIAN BUTE

“The most important thing for me is to have fun when I train. My confidence level is back at 100 percent. There’s a great atmosphere here at the gym and I have great chemistry with my trainers. I’ve done quality sparring and starting next week we’ll be reducing the training volume so as to focus more on the level of intensity.

“The pressure won’t be on me because I’ll be on his turf, in Washington. He is the favorite because he’s the champion, but I’m confident and I’m able! We looked at some video of him with Howard (Grant). He’s a good boxer, but he’s not exceptional and he makes mistakes. I have experience. This will be my 13th world championship fight. My experience and my speed will make the difference.

“My confidence level wasn’t at 100 percent before I fought James DeGale, but now it’s all back after performing the way I did against him. All the better for me if Badou Jack is already looking ahead to his next fight, is taking me for granted and is underestimating me. I know for my part that I can beat him. He did well in his last bout against George Groves, where he was able to come up with a good right blow that sent him to the canvas. But I’m going there to deliver.

“I’ve now been training for a year with Howard Grant, who already knows me well and pushes me to go beyond my limits. We’ve developed a trusting relationship and I feel very comfortable working alongside him. It’s hard to put into words! It’s true, I’m 36 years old, but I still have some good years ahead of me in professional boxing. For Éric Lucas, who had this belt for several years, I will bring back the title to the province of Quebec.”

SHARIF BOGERE

“Training camp has been going tremendously well. I’m excited to get back in action on April 30. it’s going to be a good show. Two world titles on the line, that’s something big.

“I want people to know who The Lion is. People will know that The Lion is here to stay. I will put on a great show as I always do.

“I want to put on a good show so the fans will never forget about my presence in this division. Being born in Uganda, it’s important for me to make my homeland proud.”

LATONDRIA JONES

“Training camp has been going well, I am looking forward to going into the fight real strong, dominating and come out with a win. It’s important that I continue to stay mentally focused and physically ready.

“I don’t really look too much into to my opponents, until I’m getting ready for that belt. As far as I know, this is her pro debut. I’m going to show her what this is all about, and give her that pro life.

“I was born in D.C. so, I look forward to going back and fighting at the Armory to give my hometown fans what they want to see. They came to see a show, and I plan on delivering. I look forward to getting better and coming out on top. I’m working hard and taking it day-by-day. I thank God for being in this position that I’m in.”

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

MONTREAL, April 7th 2016 – A press conference to discuss the WBC super-middleweight world championship bout between Lucian Bute and Badou Jack was held Wednesday at the Bell Centre La Cage – Brasserie sportive restaurant In Montreal. Here is what the participants had to say.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PICTURES.
Credit: Vincent Ethier / InterBox

Lucian Bute
Former IBF super middleweight world champion
“This chance at another world championship fight is a great opportunity for me. Taking part in two world championship bouts in a row is not easy, but it makes me quite proud. I’m in good health and I’ve been in th gym since February. When the phone rang, I said yes without hesitation. When you are given the opportunity to fight for a world title, at this level, you cannot refuse. I haven’t been injured in a long time. Although I had some small doubts before going up against DeGale, after the performance I came up with against him, my confidence level is now at 100%. I can see it in the gym and everyone can see it, including my trainers and my sparring partners! I’m hungry for another championship title, like I was when I was younger, at age 26 and 27. I want to take away the belt from Badou Jack. I respect him, he has a good background at the amateur level, he went to the Olympic Games and he showed that he was part of the boxing elite when he beat Anthony Dirrell and George Groves. But on April 30, the province of Quebec will have a new champion!”

Badou Jack
WBC Super Middleweight World Champion
“I’m excited to face a great champion like Lucian Bute who I know will bring the best out of me. I’m looking forward to showing off all of my skills,” said Jack. “I want to be considered the best in the division. Undisputed. I have to beat great fighters like Bute to get there and I look forward to the challenge.”

Howard Grant
Lucian Bute’s trainer
“We will go to the American capital and bring back the belt! When the phone call came, we sat down in the office, Lucian and I. I asked him what were his thoughts about such a matchup and he anwered : ‘Howard, I would go up against him for free. I will win!’ That’s all I needed to hear. Training Lucian is easy; he is a student of the sport. He watches a lot of video. He makes me a better trainer.”

Jean Bédard
President – InterBox
“This is good for boxing in Quebec. Lucian’s performance against James DeGale put him back where he belongs: at the top! I told him after that fight that the phone would soon start to ring. And I am convinced that he will be even better this time, because he has found his confidence back. It has also been 13 years since Éric Lucas had his WBC belt stolen away from him in Germany. When we signed Lucian, we said that we would get Éric’s old title back, but I never thought that such an opportunity would come 13 years later! Lucian’s performance will give a big boost to boxing in Quebec.”

Éric Lucas
Former WBC super-middleweight world champion and InterBox representative
“I’m very proud that Lucian now has the opportunity to bring back the belt that was stolen away from me in Germany. I am convinced he can bring back the title here in Quebec. It will not be easy against Jack : he has a long reach, he punches hard and h relies on a good right hand, but Lucian has the tools to win. I predict, in fact, that he will bring back the belt in Quebec and I will then be proud to say that this belt used to be mine! This will put me back on the map!”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and InterBox in association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.

For further information, visit www.interbox.ca, www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports, @Interboxca and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 4, 2016) – WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Badou Jack and former world champion Lucian Bute hosted a media roundtable on Friday night to discuss their championship showdown taking place Saturday, April 30 from the DC Armory in Washington, D.C. and live on SHOWTIME.

The SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® telecast begins at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT with IBF Super Middleweight World Champion James DeGale defending his title against top contender and Mexican brawler Rogelio Medina.

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.

The fighters were joined by Mayweather Promotions’ Floyd Mayweather and Leonard Ellerbe, Interbox’s Pierre Duc and SHOWTIME’s Stephen Espinoza as they spoke to the media about the exciting doubleheader taking place in the nation’s capital.

Here is what the participants had to say Friday:

BADOU JACK

“I’ll be ready for this fight. Bute is a very tough opponent. I have to bring my ‘A’ game to win. Much respect to him, but he’s not leaving with my belt. Absolutely not. You can expect a very tough fight.

“Bute is a much, much tougher opponent that Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., but I’m ready for him.

“Bute’s fight against DeGale was one of the best fights last year. That’s the only reason he got this shot. He lost, but he looked good. It was a great fight. April 30 will be another great fight. And another loss for Bute.”

LUCIAN BUTE

“This is a great opportunity for me to fight again for a title. I feel good, I started camp six weeks ago. Most importantly, I’m very healthy. Psychologically, I’m looking forward to becoming a world champion on April 30.

“I respect Badou Jack. He is a great champion, a great fighter, but on April 30, I will become a world champion again. I’m looking forward to it.

“I will be the new champion. I am very confident. I expect it to be a very tough fight, but I am coming here to win.

“I have a new team. They are changing some things in my work. My confidence is 100 percent. I’m working every day very tough and I am confident that everything will be great for April 30.”

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, President of Mayweather Promotions

“This fight is about the best facing the best. I’ve seen Bute fight numerous times and he’s a very exciting and explosive fighter. Every time he goes out there and performs he gives 100 percent.

“Mayweather Promotions is about giving people the best and most exciting fights.

“I commend Badou Jack for the way that he carries himself. He is a true gentlemen and that is what this sport is all about. He’s going to continue to make a name for himself in this sport.”

PIERRE DUC, VP of Interbox

“We’re very thrilled about this fight. For those of you who have not been exposed to Lucian Bute before, he’s a great fighter. He’s been working extremely hard over the course of the last 6-12 months getting ready for a moment like this.

“Bute has a very long history of fighting great fights and championship wars. Lucian will be ready for this.

“Training camp is going astonishingly well. Lucian is usually more of a gentleman, so he will say he wants to do the best that he can, but I’m telling you that Lucian is going to be walking away with this belt. It’s going to be a fantastic and very exciting evening. Lucian will pull the upset on April 30.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive VP & General Manager, SHOWTIME Sports

“The one comment I will make about this event, other than to point out it features four of the best fighters in the division, is that it was quite possibly the easiest event to make out of all the events we made this spring and summer. That’s a credit to the promoters and especially a credit to all four fighters.

“We didn’t just make two fights here. We’ve got the winners of these fights fighting later in the year in a unification match. To be able to make two fights very quickly and to get everyone on board with fighting the winners in a unification match with no mess, no politics, no arguments and no hesitation is an accomplishment.

“These are four real fighters here and they were not afraid of a challenge, they didn’t hesitate at all. This is what the sport of boxing is all about. I personally can’t wait for April 30th and for a unification later in the year.”

# # #

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

NEW YORK (March 28, 2016) – A three-fight series to crown a unified divisional champion will begin on Saturday, April 30, when WBC 168-pound champion Badou Jack defends his title against former longtime titlist Lucian Bute, and IBF Champion James DeGale risks his belt against mandated challenger Rogelio Medina in a SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING doubleheader live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT) from the DC Armory in Washington D.C.

The winners will meet in a super middleweight world-title unification fight later this year.

Jack (20-1-1, 12 KOs) will make his second title defense after a breakthrough 2015 campaign in which he won the WBC belt from Anthony Dirrell and successfully defended against George Groves. The southpaw Bute (32-3, 25 KOs), a former IBF champion with nine defenses between 2007 and 2012, revived his career last November with a gutsy and inspired performance against DeGale.

“I’ve been training really hard for this fight and I’m excited to get in the ring,” said Jack. “I can’t wait to defend my title once again on April 30. The fans can expect to see an explosive and skillful performance from me come fight night. I believe I’m the best super middleweight in the world and that I have the skills to beat anyone I get in the ring with. I’m fully focused on Lucian Bute, but I know that a win can set up a massive fight against James DeGale and I’m going to deliver.”

“I’m thrilled to have this tremendous opportunity,” said Bute. “I was ringside for Badou Jack’s last two fights — well deserved world title wins. He is a great champion. I plan to train hard and be in the best shape of my career on April 30. It’s my chance to win the WBC belt and become two-time world champion. I will win and give boxing fans a spectacular fight.”

DeGale (22-1, 14 KOs) will make his second title defense after an impressive 2015 in which he defeated Andre Dirrell to win the vacant IBF belt and topped Bute in a Fight of the Year candidate. The hard-hitting Medina (35-6, 29 KOs), the IBF’s mandatory challenger, has knocked out three consecutive opponents.

“I am delighted to be defending my world title on another great show in the United States,” said DeGale. “I won my belt in style in Boston and I’m looking forward to moving down the East Coast to the great city of Washington, D.C. It’s going to be a defining night in the super middleweight division as Badou Jack and myself look to set up a huge fight later in the year. I’m fully focused on Rogelio Medina. He’s a tough Mexican who earned his title shot. But trust me, no one is getting my world title.”

“This is such a great opportunity for me and I can’t wait to get in the ring,” said Medina. “I’ve worked so hard for this and I am going to make the most of it. Everyone who has seen me fight knows I leave it all in the ring and you can expect to see an all-out battle on April 30. I will be the new world champion.”

Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by Mayweather Promotions and Interbox in association with Matchroom Boxing, are priced at $200, $100, $50 and $25, and are on sale now. To purchase tickets visit www.ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster locations, or call (800) 745-3000.

“Mayweather Promotions is proud to bring another exciting night of boxing to the great boxing fans in my hometown of Washington, D.C.,” said Leonard Ellerbe, CEO of Mayweather Promotions. “I’m really excited about the Badou Jack vs. Lucian Bute fight. It’s going to be a great fight. We know Bute is tough as nails and he’s coming to take the title away from Badou. Badou is going to have to be at his best to be able to beat Bute that night. The winner of that fight will set up a spectacular unification fight with the winner of the fight between British champion James DeGale and Mexican brawler ‘Porky’ Medina. DeGale can’t take Medina lightly if he wants the unification bout. It’s going to be a thrilling night of action at the DC Armory and on SHOWTIME.”

Badou Jack “The Ripper”, of Las Vegas by way of Stockholm, Sweden, captured the WBC 168-pound crown with a 12-round majority decision over previously unbeaten defending champion Anthony Dirrell last April 24. A former amateur standout who represented Gambia in the 2008 Olympics, Jack retained his belt against former world title challenger George Groves last Sept. 12 on the undercard of Floyd Mayweather’s final fight. Jack, who fights under the Mayweather Promotions banner, was an underdog against both Dirrell and Groves. The 6-foot-1, 32-year-old has won four in a row since a shocking first-round knockout loss to Derek Edwards in February 2014.

Bute, of Montreal, Canada by way of Romania, has been a super middleweight mainstay for the last decade. He has competed in 12 title fights since 2007, scoring seven knockouts in nine consecutive defenses of the IBF belt he won in 2007 in his adopted hometown of Montreal. During his title reign, the 36-year-old defeated the likes of Glen Johnson, Librado Andrade and Jean-Paul Mendy, but he lost the belt to Carl Froch in 2012 and a string of injuries kept him largely inactive over the next three years. Bute returned from a 19-month absence in August 2015 under new trainer Howard Grant, knocking out Andrea Di Luisa to set up the title shot against DeGale for the crown he once held. Bute stalked the switch-hitting DeGale with a relentless attack, turning in his most impressive performance in years in a close decision loss.

James “Chunky” DeGale, of London, England, won the vacant IBF belt in his U.S. debut last May by dropping Andre Dirrell twice on his way to a unanimous decision. The 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist then successfully defended it last November in a thrilling shootout with hometown favorite and former titlist Lucian Bute. The 30-year-old, who’s only blemish came in a majority decision in his 11th bout against then-unbeaten George Groves, will make his third consecutive start outside his native England as he looks to become a global power at 168 pounds.

Rogelio “Porky” Medina is a hard-hitting veteran with 30 knockouts in his 36 career wins. He’s knocked out three consecutive opponents, including a shocking third-round knockout of then-undefeated J’Leon Love in August, 2014. Medina, 27, has suffered six losses in 42 fights, although those defeats came against opponents with a combined record of 187-16-3, including four previously undefeated fighters.

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com and www.SHO.com/Sports and follow on Twitter at: @BadouJack, @ButeLucian, @JamesDeGale1, @PorkyMedina @MayweatherPromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.

James DeGale MBE says he wants to take the WBC World Super-Middleweight title from Badou Jack after successfully defending his IBF crown against Lucian Bute in Quebec on Saturday night.

DeGale travelled to Bute’s backyard for the first defence of the title he won on the road against Andre Dirrell in Boston in May, with the Romanian-Canadian looking to regain the title he surrendered to Carl Froch in 2013 in his tenth defence.

The Brit raced out of the blocks with great intent and poured the pressure on the challenger from the start, but Bute provided stiff opposition as he was roared on by a partisan crowd. DeGale was troubled by a cut above his left eye from the fifth round – triggering a period of the fight in the middle rounds that the champion admitted to coasting in – but Bute was unable to penetrate the smart defence of DeGale who finished strongly down the stretch to take the fight 117-111, 117-111 and 116-112 on the cards.

“I am peaking now,” said DeGale. “I don’t want to waste any time, so in the next three and four years I want the big fights. I go to Jamaica on a family holiday on December 28, but when I get back, I am right back on it and I would like to be back out in April.

“I think I put on a good performance. I made it a competitive fight, a good exciting fight. It’s all down to me. I could have been boring and moved and boxed him, I am at my best when I am in the pocket, ducking and throwing shots through the middle. I didn’t take any risks, I was just flowing. I cruised through some of the middle rounds and I have to stop that, but it was a good fight to watch and I think people enjoyed it, that’s the main thing.

“I think the US networks like me and want me back in the US. I remember growing up and watching the likes of Prince Naseem Hamed go over to Madison Square Garden and Las Vegas, defending his belts, I looked at that and said one day I am going to do that, and that’s what is happening now.

“It’s a good 12 rounds against a top level opponent and I am only going to get better. I’ve beaten two elite fighters in my last two fights, and I’ve gone overseas to do it, and I want to do it all again by going to Las Vegas and unifying titles against Badou Jack.

“I never overlooked Lucian. I knew he was going to be good but I am just confident in my ability and I knew I was going to beat him. He’s brave, he showed heart and he dug in. He’s a great fighter, he had nine World title defences, you have to recognise that he’s an elite level guy, and you have to give me credit for dealing with him comfortably. He showed he still has it and can mix it at the top level, he still has big fights in him, he made it competitive and he sells over here.

“Jim McDonnell keeps telling me to stop taking my foot off the gas in the middle rounds and I have to stop doing that. It’s because I go into cruise control when it’s too comfortable, but I am going to work on that and next time, it won’t happen – I said that after Dirrell, but I really mean it this time.

I looked outside the ring when the final bell went and looked at Eddie Hearn and said: ‘I won that right?’ He said ‘yeah, definitely’. People were a bit worried because we’re in Canada and some of the punches he was throwing weren’t close to landing because my defence was really good, but because of the home crowd getting right behind him, some of the rounds looked closer than they were. The judges had it right, four or five rounds. The cut bothered me more than the Dirrell fight. The Vaseline was going into my eye and I couldn’t see properly.”

DeGale’s win crowned a great night for British boxing coming just a few hours after Tyson Fury stunned Wladimir Klitschko in Germany to land three of the World Heavyweight titles, becoming Britain’s 11th current World champion in the process.

“The Brits are flying right now,” said DeGale. “Tyson pulled off the upset in Germany, I watched it in the hotel, it really did inspire me to go out and keep hold of my title, it gave me that extra push. I boxed in the amateurs with him and been around squads with him, and he’s gone on to prove a lot of doubters wrong.”

LAS VEGAS – Floyd Mayweather Jr. said it was his last dance. If it was, he also got the last laugh.

In what he promised was his farewell fight Saturday night, Mayweather mocked Andre Berto. Beat him. too, for most of 12-one-sided rounds for a unanimous decision that put him alongside Rocky Marciano in the historical ledger at 49-0.

Everything, including his body language, said he would not fight again. He hugged and kissed his father, Floyd Mayweather Sr., on the cheek before the start of the 12th and perhaps his final round.

After the 118-110, 117-110 and 120-108 scores were announced, he knelt at the center of the ring, pointed one of his green-gloved hands toward the ceiling and look up as if he were saying a goodbye prayer.

“My career is done,’’ Mayweather said.

After the ninth, he complained to his father about an injury to his left hand.

“It doesn’t matter whether I hurt my left hand or my right hand,’’ said Mayweather. who collected another $32 million guarantee in the sixth and final fight on his Showtime contract. “My career is over.’’

As definitive as his statement was in the wake of his victory over Berto, speculation will continue about whether he will pursue a 50th victory sometime in the spring, perhaps at a brand new Las Vegas arena scheduled to open next spring.

His decision to face Berto had been mocked the day it was announced. In the end, Mayweather managed to mock Berto, if not the mismatch, himself.

Sometimes, he moved robotically as if to mimic a tiring and clueless Berto. Sometimes, he moved as if had been hurt. He wasn’t. Mostly. He just made fun of Berto. At the strta of the 10th, Mayweather talked non-stop at Berto. Finally, referee Kenny Bayless called timeout and warned both.

“Just trash talk,’ said Mayweather, who hasn’t knocked anybody in eight years.

Berto was cheered for just about anything he attempted from the 13,395 in a crowd that began to fill a Grand Garden Arena that about 90 minutes before opening bell appeared to be nearly half empty.

In the early rounds, however, Berto must have felt like he was playing dodge-ball with a target always close enough to hit, yet always elusive enough to make him miss.

“He a great fighter,’’ said Berto, who didn’t call him greatest when as if he thought Mayweather was The Best Ever.
Berto will let history decide that one.

The rematch was supposed to settle the argument. It didn’t.

Instead, Orlando Salido and Roman Martinez have more to fight about after battling to a draw Saturday night in junior-lightweight bout on the Floyd Mayweather Jr .-Andre Berto card at the MGM Grand.

“I won this fight,’’ said Martinez (29-2-3, 17 KOs), a Puerto Rican who scored a unanimous decision over Salido in April

Salido (42-13-3, 29 KOs) was credited with a knockdown in the third. Martinez complained to no avail. Turns out, Martinez was right and referee Vic Drakulich wrong in ruling it a knockdown. Video replay showed that Salido stepped on Martinez’ foot, knocking him off balance and onto the canvas.

Later in the third, Martinez scored a legit knockdown, landing a big right that sent Salido back on his heels and onto his rear end. Salido was clearly hurt. But he was able to survive and then managed to drag the fight into the kind of bruising exchange he so often wins. He threw 1,037 punches. Martinez threw 691.

“I should have won,’’ Salido said. “That’s not fair.”

Anybody for a trilogy?

Badou Jack scored a first-round knockdown that proved to the key to a split-decision over George Groves in the first defense of his WBC super-middleweight bout.

Jonathan Oquendo of Puerto Rico and Johnny Gonzalez of Mexico opened the PPV part of the card in a super-featherweight bout that began with fireworks and then settled down into a battle of wits, survival and some blood. In the end, Oquendo (254, 16 KOs), prevailed, winning a 10-round majority decision after suffering a knockdown in the first round, knocking down Gonazlez (58-10, 49 KOs) in the second and sustaining a nasty cut on his legs ye;id in the sixth.

The Floyd Mayweather-Andre Berto show opened Saturday during the noon hour, or probably before Mayweather rolled out of bed.

In an empty MGM Grand Garden Arena, Atlanta junior-welterweight Trakwon Pettis didn’t waste any time in his pro debut. Pettis stopped Devante Seay (0-1) of Martinsville, Va., at 2:24 of the first round. He was done in time to catch a late lunch.

In the afternoon’s second matinee, London junior-welterweight Ashley Theopane (39-6-1, 11 KOs) outworked Steven Upsher (24-5-1, 6 KOs), winning a one-sided decision over the Philadelphia fighter who lost to Berto last year.

Then, Baltimore lightweight prospect Gervonta Davis (12-0, 11 KOs) took over with a fast and furious beating of Filipino Recky Delay (8-2, 5 KOs), who was down twice in the first and signaled to referee Russell Mora that he was done at 1:34 of the round.

In another afternoon beating, Romanian super-middleweight Ronald Gavril (13-1, 9 KOs) punished Scott Sigmon (25-7-1, 14 KOs) before the ringside physician ended it before the ninth.

A disciplined, patient Vanes Martirosyan waited as if he knew Ishe Smith would leap and lunge. Smith did. Not once, but twice. Martirosyan (36-2-1, 21 KOs), a middleweight from Glendale, Calif., capitalized both times, scoring knockdowns with well-timed counters late in the third round and again in the eighth for a majority decision over Smith (27-8, 12 KOs), a Mayweather-promoted fighter.

Dayton middleweight Chris Pearson (13-0, 10 KOs) rocked Canadian Janks Trotter (9-2-1. 9 KOs) repeatedly in the sixth and finally floored him in the seventh for a stoppage at 2:59 of the round.

In the last fight before the pay-per-view portion of the card, Uzbekistan junior-welterweight Sanjarbek Rakhmanov (2-0, 1 KO) rocked an overmatched, yet durable Farkhad Sharipov (4-5, 1 KO) of Kazakhstan repeatedly in scoring six-round unanimous decision.

Follow all the action as Floyd Mayweather fights in his final fight of his career against Andre Berto.  The action kicks off at 6:30 PM ET / 3:30 PM PT with a 4 fight undercard that will feature 2 world title bouts

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Round 1 Mayweather suing the left..lead left hook.

Round 2 Right from Berto..

Round 3 Mayweather landing rights to body..Double jab from Berto

Round 4 Jab from Berto..Lead left from Mayweather..body..Hard right..

Round 5 Counter right from Berto..Right from Mayweather..

Round 6 Good counter left from Berto…Hard body shots from Mayweather..left uppercurt…right hand..

Round 7 Right uppercut in inside from Mayweather..Berto works the body with the left hook..Left from Berto..

Round 8 Mayweather lands a left uppercut…terrific combination..1-2..Counter left from Berto…

Round 9 Berto jabs to the body…Right over top from Mayweather…

Round 10 Both guys are talking to each other..

Round 11 Lead left hook from Mayweather,,good uppercut..Nice combination…

Round 12 2 huge uppercuts on the inside from Mayweather,,counter right..jab to the body…right over the op…left uppercut…

117-111, 118-110 and 120-108

Punch Stats

Mayweather  232 of 410    Berto 83 of 495

Round 1 Uppercut on inside from Martinez..Salido lands a combination…Combination from Martinez

Round 2 Hard right from Salido..combination..

Round 3 Right FROM SALIDO AND RULED A KNOCKDOWN..Jab from Martinez…LEFT AND DOWN GOES SALIDO..Big right from Martinez

Round 4 Huge right buckles Salido..Counter right from Salido..

Round 5 Hard right from Salido and a left hook..Jab from Martinez..

Round 6 terrific action…Salido pressing

Round 7 Jab from Salido..another jab..hook…

Round 8 Hard right from salido..

Round 9 Right from Martinez..Right from Salido on the inside..uppercut in the inside..Martinez lands a right..Hard combination by Salido…Hard combination,..

Round 10 Martinez landing hard shots in the counter…counter left hook and right from Salido..terrific exchange..

Round 11 Big right from Salido

Round 12 great infighting..Martinez lands a left hook….

115-113 Martinez, 115-113 Salido, 114-114—-DRAW

Punches Martinez: 189- 691    Salido 285- 1037

Round 1: Jack lands a jab..Double left hook and right from Groves..right..Good right…HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN Goes groves…

Round 2 Jack lands a jab..combination from Groves..Body and right..Combination from Jack…Counter from Groves..

Round 3 Body shot from Goves…Trading jabs…1-2 from Jack..

Round 4 Groves lands a right over the top..right uppercut

Round 5 Right from Jack..Good right from Groves..

Round 6 1-2 from Jack..Jab and right from Groves..another right..

Round 7 Body shot from Jack…Hard right from Groves

Round 8 Hard right from Groves

Round 9 Good right from Jack…

Round 10 Groves lands a jab that buckles Jack..Sharp right from Jack..

Round 11 Left to the body from Jack..left hook to the jaw..

Round 12 Body work from Jack…Groves lands a right…trading good rights..Groves lands a hard right that sets off a great exchange

114-113 Groves; 115-112 Jack; 116-111 Jack

Punch stats: Jack 210- 506    Groves 154- 721

Round 1: Uppercut by Gonzalez..BIG UPPEERCUT AND DOWN GOES OQUENDO…

Round 2 Right uppercut from Gonzalez…3 punch combination…Blood over the right eye of Gonzalez..right from Oquendo…HUGE RIGHT AND DOWN GOES GONZALEZ…Big left staggers Gonzalez…

Round 3 Good body work from Gonzalez..Straight right from Oquendo..Left hook…Combination from Gonzalez..Oquendo switches southpaw..Body shot from Oquendo..

Round 4 Combination from Oquendo..left hook..Jab to the body..left hook..right

Round 5 Left to body from Oquendo

Round 6: Overhand right from Oquendo..Triple Jab…Good right from Gonzalez..Nice Left

Round 7 Left hook from Gonzalez..Jab..Oquendo working the body…Gonzalez lands a hard right..

Round 8: Gonzalez cut over left eye from accidental headbutt…Left and right from Gonzalez..Jab…Jab from Oquendo drives Gonzalez to the corner..

Round 9 Doctor looking at cuts on Gonzalez…

Round 10 

94-94; 95-93 and 98-90 for Oquendo

Punch stats:  Gonzales –139 of 502    Oquendo: 100 of 455

Round 1: Good left from Smith

Round 2  Jab from Martiroysan…Combination..Right to the body..Counter left from Smith

Round 3:  2 shots to the body from Martirosyan..Left from Smith..Counter left..RiGHT FROM MARTIROSYAN AND RULED A KNOCKDOWN

Round 4:  Jab from Martirsyan…right…right to body from Smith,,,Nice right from Martirosyan..

Round 5:  Good combination from Smith..Good uppercut..Good combination..right lead..3 punch combination..counter right…

Round 6:  Good combination..right to body and left to the head..Body…Combination..

Round 7: Smith lanleft to head and left uppercut..lands a left..right

Round 8: Huge LEFT AND DOWN GOES SMITH

Round 9 Nice combination from Smith..good left to body and head..Swelling under the right eye of Martirosyan..Left..

Round 10  Good right from Smith

95-95; 97-91 two times Martirosyan

LONDON (9 Sept) – British ace George Groves says he’s ready to burst onto the world scene as he challenges for the WBC world title in Floyd Mayweather’s final bout.

The 27-year-old takes on super-middleweight champion Badou Jack this Saturday night, live and exclusive on BoxNation, on the undercard of pound-for-pound king Mayweather’s last fight against Haitian hard-hitter Andre Berto.

It’s been a whirlwind career for Londoner Groves who has twice fought for the world title, those being two defeats to rival Carl Froch, but having bounced back with two wins including capturing the European title he insists he is ready to now take the boxing world by storm.

“Every fight is more vital than that last, more important than the last and there’s more to lose, especially once you’ve lost,” said Groves.

“I came back after losing last year and won the European title, I became the mandatory of the WBC. Since then we’ve been rolling and waiting for our opportunity to fight for the WBC belt. We knew it would come so we’ve been patient with it.

“People will consider this a 50-50 match up. We’re going to go in there and show people that they couldn’t be further from the truth. We’re in a great place and we’re just ready to perform, to steal the show and arrive on the world scene.

“So all the pressures and all the excitement and everything else that goes with fighting for the world championship, I don’t feel any of it because to me, it’s just a fight,” Groves said.

Hammersmith hero Groves has spent the last two months training in the US at Big Bear Lake, undergoing gruelling mountain runs to whip him into shape.

Up against Jack he’ll face an opponent with a record of 19 wins, with just one loss and a draw on his record, but Groves insists the Swedish born fighter won’t be on his level.

“We have plenty of motivation up here in the mountains. We’re working hard. It’s been a lifelong dream to become world champion. We’re just concentrating on Badou Jack,” Groves said.

“This is a fight against a good guy, but a guy who is not as good as me. For that reason, we’re just looking forward to getting in there and performing. And winning and everything that goes with it.

“Without trying to give too much away about the game plan, we know Jack’s strengths. We know his weaknesses. We plan to go in there, nullify his strengths and expose the weaknesses.

“But we’re in phenomenal shape. First we came up here, I was in good shape. I was struggling to breathe because of the altitude. But now, we are flying. We’re getting better results than we do back in London when we’re out in flat land and there’s more oxygen.

“We’re going to go bring the fight to Badou Jack. Make sure he works for every second of every round. From there on in, the game plan will develop,” he said.

31-year-old Jack, a Mayweather Promotions fighter, came to prominence with his majority decision victory over Anthony Dirrell in April of this year to win the WBC world title.

The 168-pound champion is unfazed at Groves’ confidence going into the bout and says he will do his big talking in the ring.

“For me it’s just another fight. I’m not a trash talker. I don’t get into all that trying to get into your mind and stuff,” said Jack.

“I’m staying focused on winning the fight. I might seem like a quiet guy or something like that, but come fight night, in the ring, it’s going to be a different story.

“It’s a 50-50 fight and I think that’s where you don’t know who’s going to win. That’s what makes it so exciting. I believe I’m the better fighter and I’m 110 percent confident that I’m going to win this fight,” he said.

Mayweather v Berto / Groves v Jack is live on BoxNation (Sky 437/490HD, Virgin 525 and TalkTalk 415) this Saturday night at 1am. Visit boxnation.com to subscribe.

LOS ANGELES (August 6, 2015) – Accredited media members from around the world came out to the JW Marriott at L.A. Live in Los Angeles Thursday as Floyd “Money” Mayweather (48-0, 26 KOs) and two-time welterweight champion Andre Berto (30-3, 23 KOs) officially announced their SHOWTIME PPV matchup with taking place Saturday, September 12 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Also in attendance Thursday were pay-per-view undercard fighters featured on the stacked four-fight telecast. In a rematch of their epic April 11 world-title fight Roman “Rocky” Martinez (29-2-2, 17 KOs) will defend his WBO Junior Lightweight title against four-time world champion Orlando “Siri” Salido (42-13-2, 29 KOs) while WBC Super Middleweight Champion Badou Jack “The Ripper” (19-1-1, 12 KOs) will take on his mandatory challenger “Saint” George Groves (21-2, 16 KOs). A fourth fight on the pay-per-view telecast will be announced soon.

Further undercard action features a super welterweight showdown between Ishe “Sugar Shay” Smith (27-7, 12 KOs) and Vanes “The Nightmare” Martirosyan (35-2-1, 21 KOs), who were also in attendance Thursday to announce their fight.

Promoted by Mayweather Promotions, the four-fight pay-per-view telecast will be produced and distributed live by SHOWTIME PPV and is the sixth and final fight of a record-breaking deal between Mayweather and Showtime Networks Inc. SHOWTIME Sports® will support the event with the Sports Emmy® Award-winning series ALL ACCESS premiering Friday, August 28.

Here is what the fighters and participants had to say Thursday:

FLOYD MAYWEATHER, 12-Time World Champion

“I’ve had a remarkable career. I wouldn’t change anything. We all make mistakes. We live and we learn but I wouldn’t change anything.

“My dad is a remarkable trainer, Virgil Hunter as well. But when it comes down to it, it comes down to the two fighters in the ring.

“Andre Berto is a tough competitor, a former world champion. Every time he goes out there, he gives it 100 percent.

“I chose Berto because he’s very exciting. Andre Berto is going to push Floyd Mayweather to the limit. That’s one thing I do know.

“Berto always gives an exciting fight. If he gets knocked down he gets back up. He always give 100 percent. Fast hands, good boxer.

“I know what it takes when it’s a fight of this magnitude, because I’ve been fighting on pay-per-view for over 10 years. Berto is a very tough guy, he’s hungry and he’s not going to lie down.

“September 12th is my last dance. On September 13 I just want to sit back and watch some football. I want to watch my children get the best education. And I want to spend every day with my kids. These are the best days of my life.

“The difference between Andre Berto and Pacquiao is you guys [to the media] put hype behind Pacquiao. My job was to go out there and be Floyd Mayweather and be a chess player and that’s what I did. I found a way to win.

“Number 49, this is it. I’ve had a tremendous career. I’m older, wiser and my health is more important than anything. September 12 is my last fight. All 48 fights played a key, but number 48 was the most important.

“This dream all started with just two people. Me and my father. Just the two of us.

“When you look at the two divisions I fight in, there’s one man who stands all alone. I looked at the division and asked who’s always in a tough exciting fight, who has quick hands and who always gives it 100 percent, it was Andre Berto

“This is a guy I can’t overlook. He’s dedicated to the sport just like myself and he’s going to push me.”

ANDRE BERTO, Two-Time Welterweight World Champion

“It’s a long time coming. Now we’re here. Anybody that knows me has seen great things but at the same time they’ve seen me go through some real trials. What comes with that is a lot of hard work and perseverance.

“Two years ago I was in the hospital bed having surgery on my shoulder and not knowing if I could come back from that. At the end of the day it was a blessing. We stayed focused and now we’re here.

“I know I’m going to come in there fast and strong. I’m 152 pounds right now. At the end of the day you’re going to see a kids who’s had his highs. Or who’s had his falls. And now we’re right back to making it happen.

“This is a fight that I felt Floyd still wanted to make happen. Him coming off of the Pacquiao fight, of course it’s easy for people to downplay me. I can’t worry about that and I’m not worried about that.

“Have you ever seen a boring Andre Berto fight? At the end of the day we work our butt off, I’ve been working for a long time. Right now, the harvest is coming. We sowed the seeds and the time is now.

“I bring that rare combination of speed, power and explosiveness to the table. The last person he bought with that combination was Zab Judah. I’m younger, I’m hungry; I’m strong and fast. I’m focused on what I’m coming to get.

“I felt like I went through what I went through for a reason. My time is now. There’s no better day than the present. Floyd is no stranger to me. We’re already deep into camp. You definitely do not want to miss this one.”

ROMAN MARTINEZ, WBO Junior Lightweight World Champion

“I’m so happy to be part of this great show. I’m preparing very well for this fight. Everybody who saw the first fight knows this was a war and this will be the same thing. I’m in great shape and I’m ready to keep my belt.

“I need to work to the body more in this fight and see if I can finish him early this time.

“I’m in really good shape for this fight and I’ve been working to make adjustments to get the knock out but if we have to go the distance, we’ll be ready.

“I feel the rematch is a very exciting fight for television, the kind fans love.

“Everybody who saw the first fight knows it was a war and this will be the same thing. For me, it gives me a chance to leave no doubt in anybody’s mind that I am the champion.

“Salido can say what he says, I hope he’s in good condition because I am. In the end the best man will win this fight and that will be me.”

ORLANDO SALIDO, Four-Time World Champion

“Now I know his weaknesses, I am going to attack from the very first moment, I know what to do for the victory.

“I have to refocus mentally and physically, I’m not going to do much different other than to gain the victory this time

“I’m definitely going to regain this title for Mexico. I don’t feel it. I know it.

“I am very happy we are fighting in a neutral territory for our rematch, not in Puerto Rico again. I was very prepared for the first fight but the referee wouldn’t let me fight my fight. It seemed the referee was talking to me the whole 12 rounds. I was trying to focus only on my opponent, but I couldn’t.

“I’m very excited about this fight. This is a very special month for Mexico and in particular because of that, I’m going to get this victory.

“There’s always a very special rivalry between Mexico and Puerto Rico and I feel it, which is why I so badly want to win this title for Mexico.”

BADOU JACK, WBC Super Middleweight World Champion

“I’ve been in camp for about two months now. It’s been a very good training camp and I’m ready right now to fight. We still have a month to go and we’re ready.

“I’ve always been strong mentally but I get some extra confidence from having that green belt. You still have to stay humble and keep working hard.

“Groves is a pretty good fighter. I definitely think it’s going to be an exciting fight. I know he’s coming to get what’s mine and he’s coming to fight.

“He’s fought in the UK in front of a lot of people, but it’s a different stage in Vegas.

“I think I’m the overall better fighter. He’s going to try to knock me out and I’m going to try to knock him out. It’s going to be a great fight. I’m definitely going for the knockout.

“It’s a dream come true to be part of such a big event at MGM Grand for Floyd’s last fight, it’s a blessing.

“It’s no different to me being the main event or on the undercard. There will be even more people seeing my fight which is great.

“I just have to listen to my corner, be smart and be myself. If I do that I’ll walk out of there with my belt intact.”

GEORGE GROVES, Top 168-Pound Contender

“Everything in training camp has been perfect. We’re adjusting to the time difference and the altitude, which takes a couple of days, but everything is going really well. We’re ahead of schedule.

“We’ve been training all year for this fight so I’m feeling really good. I can’t wait to get in there and start punching.

“I think I know more than enough about Jack. I’ve seen him box live against Anthony Dirrell and I’ve studied him on tape. There’s a lot to like about him. I like the fact that he’s come to the U.S. and has made a home out here, there’s bravery in that. He’s latched on to a successful camp but ultimately you have to stand on your own two feet in the ring.

“I think I’m better than him in most aspects. If I go out and perform it’s an easy night’s work for me.

“It’s nice being on a undercard because I’ve dealt with the pressure of the main event. It’s nice to just be able to enjoy the fight. It’s a massive fight but the only thing I have to worry about it fighting. It’s a great opportunity for me.

“Rust is more mental than anything. You only hear a fighter talk about ring rust after a fight because it’s an excuse. We’re in the gym performing, sparring partners are getting beat up and there’s no excuse to not take it into a real fight.

“I’m pleased to be here in America. The third time going for the title will be lucky. We’ve prepared diligently. We’re ready for action.

“I’ve seen Badou up close and personal and as of yet, we can’t find anything that will cause me a problem. We plan to take the belt back to the UK.

“He’ll have comfort being at home and with his stable mates, but that all goes away when you step in the ring and a guy is trying to take your head off.

“Since I was seven years old I’ve dreamed of becoming a world champion. I’ve had ups and downs in boxing but it’s all come full circle.

“We have ourselves in a great place in training camp and I literally cannot wait to get in there.”

ISHE SMITH, Former Super Welterweight World Champion

“I asked for the toughest fights and the toughest challenges. I just want to fight the best. No matter what people think or what people say about me, we put together good fights.
We’ve had three champions at Mayweather Promotions so we’re doing something right.

“Vanes Martirosyan is a good fighter, I have nothing but respect for him. We’re putting together the necessary work in the gym to be successful.

“This fight could probably have been a main event somewhere but I’m happy to be a part of history and Floyd’s finale. I’m looking forward to a great night of boxing.”

VANES MARTIROSYAN, 2004 U.S. Olympian and 154-Pound Contender

“This is a big fight for me. My last fight I left in the judges’ hands and it went the other way.

“September 12 I’m not letting the judges get in my way. I’m going for the knockout and you’re going to see the best Vanes you’ve ever seen.”

VIRGIL HUNTER, Berto’s Trainer

“I’m glad to be a part of this historic event. It’s these moments that I reflect on what these young men go through. I’ve seen some of the great fighters that came before us. When I see some of the negative attitudes on this event, it’s from people who don’t know what those fighters go through at the gym.

“We’re told never to quit and to never give up. Being 48-0 is not an easy job. Particularly when you go back to day one and the obstacles and the hills you have to climb. That’s the spirit of the sport. I think once Floyd Mayweather is gone, we’ll feel the presence that this man had on the sport. I witnessed the same thing with Muhammad Ali.

“Andre Berto has overcome a lot in his life and I’m glad to have made his acquaintance. He epitomizes what a fighter is. He’s overcome and he’s earned this opportunity based off that.

“When you look at that pack in that welterweight division there’s only one that stands out, everyone else is in that pack.

“We intend to give this the best job that we’re going to give it. I think the champ himself respects that. We come to win, but we have to respect what he’s done for the sport.

“I’m glad to be a part of this. It’s a big thrill for me to be on the opposite side of legends and we’re anticipating everything turning out just right for us on fight night.”

LEONARD ELLERBE, CEO of Mayweather Promotions

“Welcome everyone to what will be Floyd Mayweather’s last kick off press conference of his amazing career. We are so excited to be working together to bring another stacked PPV card to boxing fans on SHOWTIME PPV.

“We have a great lineup with three world championships fights.

“Tickets will go on sale tomorrow at 10 am P.T./1 pm E.T. Prices range from $1,500, $1,000, $750, $500, $300, $150.

“Once again Floyd will be putting his WBC titles and WBA title on the line. He will be facing Andre Berto, who will be looking to erase the 0 off Floyd’s record on September 12.

“’Rocky’ Martinez vs. Orlando Salido will be a rematch of the Fight of the Year candidate from April. We know that will be a war.

“These are the kinds of challenges that Floyd needs to push him the way that he needs to be pushed. Andre Berto is a guy we were supposed to fight years ago. He’s a two-time world champion. We know he’s going to bring it. He’s going to give it his best. On September 12 we’ll see if it’s good enough.

“With the storied career that Floyd Mayweather has had, we are truly witnessing history. You better take a good look at him, because the thing’s he’s accomplished in this sport, we’ll never see again.

“We always knew that Floyd would be here, many years ago. When a guy accomplishes these kinds of things, everything he does is historic. When you look around the landscape, this gentleman right here is why the game has been changed.”

STEPHEN ESPINOZA, Executive Vice President & General Manager SHOWTIME Sports

“Boxing is a tough sport. It’s a tough sport to cover, it’s a tough sport to do business in and it’s a tough sport to make a living at. When you find someone who has been participating in the sport as a professional for 19 years, not just participating but practicing the sport at an elite level, one that’s rarely been seen, that’s something special.

“Two decades at the top of the sport, but you know what’s most impressive? It’s work ethic. Almost 20 years of a work ethic that is unmatched in the sport of boxing. Never in his 19 years has Floyd showed up less than 100 percent prepared, 19 years of unwavering discipline. Once he got to the top level, the work ethic didn’t change. That will be the legacy of Floyd in this sport, it is something I will likely never see again in my lifetime.

“It all comes to an end September 12, it’s our last opportunity to enjoy his incredible skill.

“Andre Berto has a chance to make history himself. If he does that, nothing else will matter. Berto will become known as the guy who finally beat Floyd Mayweather.

“One thing we know about Andre Berto, he’s never lacked for action. There’s only one way he knows how to fight and that’s all out aggressive.

“I’ve seen what Andre can do in the ring, I’ve seen him fight round after round. Fighters like Andre Berto will always be welcome, because no one fights harder than Andre Berto.”

MAURICIO SULAIMAN, WBC President

“I am very happy to once again represent my father and to see the WBC back in a great event. September 12 is a national Mexican holiday and Floyd has taken it over and represented Mexico so well. Andre Berto is a former WBC champion who will for sure bring a great challenge to Floyd Mayweather.”

* * *

For more information visit www.mayweatherpromotions.com, www.SHO.com/Sports andwww.mgmgrand.com and follow on Twitter at @floydmayweather, @AndreBerto, @BadouJack, @StGeorgeGroves, @sirisalido, @mayweatherpromo, @SHOSports and @Swanson_Comm or become a fan on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/FloydMayweather,www.Facebook.com/TheRealAndreBerto,www.facebook.com/MayweatherPromotions and www.facebook.com/SHOsports.