Rolling on the exciting momentum of two sold-out events there in the past two months, Salita Promotions will return to the Lincoln Ballroom of the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn, MI, on Saturday April 2, 2022, for another fantastic Detroit Brawl event.

In the main event this time will be the return of one of Detroit’s own, as undefeated power-punching lightweight contender Erick De Leon (19-0-1, 11 KOs) will return after nearly three years’ absence from the sport due to injuries to face hard-nosed Mexico City veteran Juan Jose “Piquet” Martinez (28-11, 20 KOs).

In the main supporting bouts will be a pair of world-class contenders, as undefeated former amateur star Timur Kerefov (12-0, 6 KOs) and WBC #9, IBF #15, WBO #14 light heavyweight Ali Izmailov (7-0, 5 KOs) will both make appearances against separate opponents, while undefeated Grand Rapids, Michigan-based former amateur star Joshua “Double J” Pagan (1-0, 1 KO) will appear in four-round special attraction.

Kerefov will take on divisional gatekeeper Cleotis “Mookie” Pendarvis (21-9-2, 9 KOs) in an eight-round showdown. The murderous-punching Izmailov’s, as well as Pagan’s opponents are yet to be announced.

Tickets for “Detroit Brawl” start at $40 and can be purchased by clicking HERE or by calling or visit the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center Box Office (313.943.2354) at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn on the day of the event. PLEASE NOTE: Tickets ordered online will be placed in will call at the box office for pick-up. A limited quantity of VIP tickets is also available by calling Lina (313.529.7604).

Born in Mexico and raised in Detroit, DeLeon began boxing in the famed Kronk Gym where he developed a strong bond with the late Emanuel Steward. As an amateur, DeLeon (19-0-1, 11 KO) was a three-time national Golden Gloves champion in three different weight classes and a leading contender to make the 2012 USA Olympic Team before a shoulder injury derailed his dream. He elected to turn professional instead in 2012.

Over his past six fights, DeLeon has gone 5-0-1 against opponents with a combined 130-30 record. He followed up his 2018 draw with then 20-0 Andy Vences with two strong performances: a 10-round UD victory over Adrian Yung (25-4-2) and a seventh-round KO over Jose Luis Gallegos (16-5).

Out of action since 2019 because of a series of injuries before the pandemic brought a halt to the sport overall, De Leon says he’s excited to be back in business.

“It feels great being the main event, knowing all my fans will be there cheering me on. I’m excited to showcase my skills, that I’ve worked so hard since a young boy!” said a happy De Leon. “I’m very excited to be coming back, the time off will not stop me from getting a world title for the city of Detroit. I will win, because if my hunger and I want to dedicate this fight to my beautiful cousin Evelyn Garza, who just passed away 2 days ago!

Blessed with excellent hand and foot speed and the fast-twitch reflexes that only come from a lifetime in the sport, Kerefov was a highly decorated amateur boxer, winning several important tournaments and 298 of his 310 unpaid fights. Designated a Master of Sports, he fought at the elite level internationally for nearly a decade.

“I have been training in Florida and learning under the tutelage of Sugarhill Steward,” said Kerefov during a break in training. “I look forward to showcasing my skills and coming one step closer to a world title shot.”

Now working with highly regarded trainer and former champion John David Jackson, Ali Izmailov is a true blue-chip light heavyweight prospect. In his two-year pro boxing career, Izmailov is already world rated and has held the WBO Global Championship. The 28-year-old Izmailov is a former amateur standout, having competed in multiple elite international tournaments. Widely regarded as one of the hardest punchers in the division, Izmailov stands 5? 11½? with a muscular frame, strong punching power, deceptive quickness and a very sturdy defense, Izmailov is a punishing counter puncher with anvil fists who brutalizes opponents into submission.

“I love my activity, staying busy in the ring and learning with trainer John David Jackson,” said an energized Izmailov. “This will be my third fight in seven months. What I learn in the gym, I put to work in the ring. I made my USA debut in Detroit and look forward to backing it up with another impressive performance.”

A smooth boxer with a mean streak, 21-year-old Grand Rapids, Michigan-based 2021 USA National Amateur Welterweight Champion Pagan started boxing at age 13, had approximately 90 fights as an amateur, culminating in winning three State Golden Gloves Championships and the USA national Championships in Shreveport, Louisiana.

“Training is going good,” explained Pagan. “We are currently in Fort Lauderdale about to start a mini camp. We’re hoping to get some great sparring in preparation for our next bout, and we are prepared for the challenge, hard work and dedication it takes.”

Promoter Dmitriy Salita, who’s never made a secret of his mission to revive the sport in The Motor City, says he’s happy to be bringing another world-class show to Detroit for the fans who have gotten behind the series.

“I look forward to another exciting Detroit Brawl event that will feature local, national and international world class talent,” said Dmitriy Salita. “Detroit is America’s Greatest comeback City, and, in due time, I have confidence that this series will produce elite world champions from home and abroad. This will be an exciting show from bell to bell.”

All bouts are subject to change. The Ford Community & Performing Arts Center is located at 15801 Michigan Ave. in Dearborn. On fight night, doors open at 7:00 pm and the action starts at 8:00 pm.
ABOUT THE FORD COMMUNITY & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER:

The mission of the Dearborn Recreation & Parks Department is to help fulfill the social, educational and recreational needs of children, adults and families by providing quality programs and activities in clean and well-maintained facilities and to achieve this through exemplary customer service. For more information, visit their OFFICIAL SITE.

ABOUT SALITA PROMOTIONS:

Salita Promotions was founded in 2010 by Dmitriy Salita, a professional boxer and world-title challenger who saw the need for a promotional entity to feature boxing’s best young prospects and established contenders in North America and around the world. Viewers watching fighters on worldwide television networks including Showtime, HBO, ESPN, Spike TV, Universal Sports Network, UFC Fight Pass, DAZN, ESPN+ and MSG have enjoyed Salita Promotions fight action in recent years. We pride ourselves on offering our fighters opportunities inside and outside the ring. Salita Promotions looks forward to continuing to grow and serve the needs of fight fans around the globe.

Check the Salita Promotions YOUTUBE CHANNEL for regular updates of the modern world’s greatest fighters, contenders and prospects in action.

Angel Fierro shrugged off two early round knockdowns to come back and stop former junior lightweight beltholder Alberto Machado in round six of their 10-round lightweight bout in Salinas, Puerto Rico

In round one, Machado dropped Fierro with a perfect counter right. In round two, it was another right that put Fierro on the deck.

Fierro started turning momentum in round four by working the body, and in round six, he landed a vicious left-right combination hat sent Machado crashing to the canvas. Machado could not beat the count and the fight was stopped at 47 seconds.

Fierro of Tijuana, MX is now 18-1-1 with 14 knockouts. Machado, 136 lbs of Rio Piedras, PR is 22-3.

“I’m happy, I faced a top-notch fighter tonight in Alberto Machado,” said Fierro, who was a three-to-one underdog. “He is world class and dropped me twice. But I am ecstatic that I was able to come back and beat a fighter of his caliber.”

“He dropped me twice in the beginning of the fight,” added Fierro. “When I got back to my corner, I told them, ‘remind me of my daughter.’ Because with this fight I can change her life and that’s exactly what they did after the third round. They motivated me and that’s exactly what I did.”

“We found a lot of gaps in Machado’s game in the sixth round,” stated Fierro. “I took advantage of them and I turned it around. I told you in the interview (before the fight), I didn’t come here to be a tourist in Puerto Rico. I came here to win.”

Ibarra Decisions Cornejo

Alma Ibarra won a eight-round unanimous decision over Maricela Cornejo in a middleweight bout.

Ibarra, 156 lbs of Monterrey, MEX won by scores of 79-73 twice and 77-75 and is now 8-1. Cornejo, 158 1/2 lbs of Los Angles is 13-5.

“Now the world knows who Alma Ibarra is and what she is made of,” said the victor. “To everyone, I was a stranger. And to fight against someone who is very recognized worldwide in Maricela Cornejo and beat her, this opened many doors for us.”

“I felt very good, very strong, as this is a division that I am not used to,” said Ibarra. “I always fight in lower divisions, we had to go up two divisions to take this great opportunity, and well, I think we were not wrong to take this risk.”

Martinez and Gonzalez fight to Draw

Jose Martinez and Israel Gonzalez fought to a 10-round draw in a super flyweight bout.

Gonzalez took a card 96-94 while two cards read even at 95-95.

Martinez, 117 3/4 of Las Marias, PR is now 21-1-3. Gonzalez, 117 lbs of Las Cabos, MEX is 26-4-1.

“I felt his punches, but I was the superior fighter tonight,” said Gonzalez. “He might have won three rounds but it’s OK. I’m thankful to Puerto Rico and all of the people that gave me an opportunity to be here.”

“I feel happy, satisfied with the work I did,” said Martinez. “I understand that I was fighting against a strong opponent and that I won. I pushed more. I was on top of him, but these things happen in boxing. Now it’s a matter of continuing to train, maintain myself and seek that title opportunity.”

Former world champion Angel Acosta won an eight-round unanimous decision over Gilberto Mendoza in a flyweight contest.

In Round seven, Acosta dropped Mendoza with a left hook.

Acosta, 114 lbs of San Juan, PR won by scores of 79-72 on all cards and is now 22-2. Mendoza, 113 lbs of Modesto, CA is 17-10-3.

Edwin Valentin stopped Hector Marengo at the start of round five of a scheduled six-round lightweight bout.

Marengo did not answer the bell to start the fifth round, but the official time was 11 seconds.

Valentin, 135 lbs of Salinas, PR is 10-0 with nine knockouts. Marengo, 135 1/4 lbs of Arecibo, PR is 7-15-4.

Jose Roman remained undefeated with an eight-round unanimous decision over Roque Junco.

Roman, 146 1/2 lbs of Bayamon, PR won by scores of 80-71 and 80-72 twice and is now 11-0. Junco, 146 lbs of Cordobo, ARG is 10-8-1.

Joe Ward avenged his lone professional setback by pounding out a six-round unanimous decision over Marco Delgado in a light heavyweight fight.

Ward, 173.8 lbs of Moate, IRL won by scores of 60-54 on all cards and is now 3-1. Delgado, 173.6 lbs of Turlock, CA is 7-2.

Jamel Herring retained the WBO Junior Lightweight title when Jonathan Oquendo was disqualified for an intentional headbutt that caused a bad cut over Herring’s right eye. The fight headlined a card at the MGM Grand Conference in Las Vegas,

In round three, Herring dropped Oquendo with a perfect left uppercut. In round five, Herring was cut over the right eye from an intentional headbutt, for which Oquendo was deducted a point.

After round eight, the cut worsened and Herring was not able to see, and the fight was halted and Oquendo was disqualified.

Herring said, “It just got ugly. I wasn’t too satisfied with my performance, to be honest with you. In the beginning, everything was going real smooth, me boxing. I put him down with an uppercut. We knew he was going to come head-first. We had to time it. In the end, I wasn’t happy with how I was looking. I’m disappointed with the outcome. I’ve never been in that situation.
 
“I still want the Carl Frampton fight next by all means. November, December, whatever. I still want that fight next.”

Nelson stops Ware in 6

Steven Nelson stopped DeAndre Ware in round six of a scheduled 10-round super middleweight fight.

In round two, blood started dripping from about the left eye of Nelson. In round five, a worse cut opened up on the eyelid. Both cuts where caused by accidental headbutts.

In round six, Nelson hurt Ware with left hooks that wobbled Ware. Ware went back to the ropes with hard right hands and a big uppercut forced referee Jay Nady to stop the bout at 2:24.

Nelson, 167.6 lbs of Omaha, NE 17-0 with 14 knockouts. Ware, 168 lbs of Toledo, OH is 13-4-2.

“I feel like I’m ready for a title eliminator and then let’s go for the title. That was my whole plan, to set myself up where they can’t deny me a world title.”

Rodriguez Destroys Rivera in 1

Jesse Rodriguez remained undefeated by blowing out Janiel Rivera in scheduled six-round light flyweight bout.

Rodriguez dropped Rivera three times before the fight was stopped at 2:03.

Rodriguez, 109.2 lbs of San Antonio, TX is 12-0 with eight knockouts. Rivera, 109.3 lbs of Bayamon, PR is 18-7-3.

Rodriguez said, “I felt amazing. I told Robert in the locker room, ‘This is the best I’ve ever felt.’ I think I showed that today.

“To have a brother as a champion is really motivating to me. In camp, I was thinking that my brother became a champ, and I can do the same. There were times in camp I didn’t feel like working out or running, but I thought about my brother, and he motivated me. Just the thought of him being a world champ brought out the best of me in camp.”

Anderson stop Hernandez in 4

Jared Anderson remained perfect by stopping Rodney Anderson in round four of a scheduled six-round heavyweight bout.

Anderson bloodied the nose of Hernandez in round four. Later in the round, Anderson landed a jab, and dropped Hernandez with a left uppercut and the fight was stopped at 2:22.

Anderson, 247.2 lbs of Toledo, OH is 6-0 with six knockouts. Hernandez, 255.2 lbs of Modesto, CA is 13-10-2.

Anderson said, “We’re ready for everybody. We’re building up. Bob {Arum} is moving me perfectly. It was about getting those rounds in and showing I can really box. I’m not just a puncher. I know how to box, and I know how to stay on my back foot.
 
“I’m listening to the commentators more, getting a lot of learning experiences. It’s helping a lot {with me} taking my time and slowing down.”

Benjamin Whitaker won a six-round unanimous decision over D’Andre Smith in a welterweight bout.

Whitaker, 148.8 lbs of San Antonio, TX won by scores of 60-54 twice and 59-55, and is now 14-4. Smith, 147.4 lbs of Dacatar, GA is 8-1.

Ruben Cervera scored a sensational 2nd round stoppage over Rennard Oliver in a scheduled six-round junior lightweight bout.

Seconds into the fight, an accidental headbutt caused a small abrasion over Cervera’s left eyebrow. In round two, Cervera landed a perfect right to the jaw that sent Oliver down, and the fight was stopped at 1:42.

Cervera, 130.3 lbs of Santa Maria, COL is 13-2 with 11 knockouts. Oliver, 130.5 lbs of New Orleans, LA is 7-3-2.

Despite being knocked down, Edwin Vazquez remained undefeated by winning a six-round unanimous decision over Adan Ochoa in a featherweight bout.

In round two, Ochoa dropped Vazquez with a hard right hand.

Vazquez, 127.3 lbs of Fort Worth, TX on by scores of 58-55 twice and 57-56, and is now 8-0. Ochoa, 127.1 lbs of Los Angeles is 11-2.

Rashiem Jefferson won a four-round unanimous decision over Jose Martinez in a featherweight bout.

Jefferson, 125 lbs of Philadelphia won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37, and is now 2-0. Martinez, 125.1 lbs of East Los Angeles, CA is 2-2.

ALPINE, Cal. (February 2, 2019) – The next great Filipino boxer, “Mighty” Aston Palicte, knocked out his previously unbeaten Puerto Rican opponent Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez in the second round of this past Thursday night’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) Junior Bantamweight World Title Eliminator, before a sold-out crowd in the Oak Ballroom at Viejas Casino and Resort in Alpine, California.

Palicte vs. Martinez, presented by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions in association with Miquel Cotto Promotions, was the inaugural event live-streamed on UFC Fight Pass® under a new agreement between Palicte’s promoter, RJJ Boxing, and FIGHT PASS, to live stream up to 72 professional boxing events over the next three years.

Palicte (25-2-1, 21 KOs), rated No. 1 by the WBO, took on No. 2- ranked Martinez, the reigning North American Boxing Organization (NABO) champion, in the main event to determine the mandatory challenger for WBO junior bantamweight title-holder Donnie Nietes, the four-division world champion, also from the Philippines.

Palicte was coming off a controversial 12-round split draw with Nietes last September for the then vacant WBO Junior bantamweight championship. Many at ringside felt that Palicte should have won the Filipino showdown and now he will have a richly deserved match.

“I knew Aston wanted to make a statement against Martinez and boy did he ever deliver,” RJJ Boxing CEO/Co-Founder Keith Veltre said. “What a way to start our series on UFC Fight Pass. From the opening fight to the main event there was nothing but action. Our matchmaker, Guy Taylor, has been delivering great content.”

After a standard feeling-out first round, Palicte exploded in the second round, as he walked through Martinez’ punches, showing no respect for his opponent’s power. Palicte dropped Martinez with an overhand right, repeating the decking moments later with the same punch. Martinez beat the count, but Palicte unleashed a flurry of unanswered punches, which resulted in the referee halting the action.

“I will start the process on making a deal with Nietes’ people,” Veltre added. “We’re looking forward to seeing Aston become world champion.”

In the co-featured event, a rare showdown between a pair of unbeaten prospects, Fort Worth, Texas featherweight Edward “Kid” Vasquez (6-0) out-boxed Brandon “2 Smooth” Cruz (6-1, 4 KOs), fighting out of nearby San Diego, in a back-and-forth fight for a key win by way of a sixth-round split decision.

Compton, CA junior featherweight Daniel Constantino (3-2-1, 1 KO) pulled off a mild upset in the FIGHT PASS opener, defeating San Diego’s Dilan “El Rey” Miranda (4-2, 3 KOs) by way of a six-round majority decision.

San Diego featherweight Jessica Juarez (2-0, 1 KO) won a four-round majority decision over Kailyn Hansen (1-3). Redlands, CA welterweight Anthony “The Future” Franco (4-1-1) and Los Angeles heavyweight Oscar Torrez (4-0, 1 KO) both won four-round unanimous decision, respectively, against Los Angeles’ David Morales and Ignacio Zambrano (2-5), of Whittier, CA.

Below are the official results:

OFFICIAL RESULTS

MAIN EVENT – WBO Jr. BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE ELIMINATOR
Aston Palicte(25-2-1, 21 KOs), Bago City, Negros Occidental, Philippines
WTKO2 (2:18)
Jose Martinez (20-1-2, 13 KOs), Las Marias, Puerto Rico lbs.

CO-FEATURE – FEATHWERWEIGHTS
Edward Vasquez (6-0, 0 KOs), Fort Worth, Texas
WDEC6 (59-55, 58-56, 54-55)
Brandon Cruz (6-1, 4 KOs), San Diego, California

JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS
Daniel Constantino (3-2-1, 1 KO), Compton, California
WDEC6 (59-55, 59-55, 57-57)
Dilan Miranda (4-2, 3 KOs), San Diego, California by way of Mexico

FEMALE FEATHERWEIGHTS
Jessica Juarez (2-0, 1 KO), San Diego, California
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 38-38)
Kailyn Hansen (1-3, 0 KOs), Whittier, California

WELTERWEIGHTS
Anthony Franco (4-1-1, 0 KOs), Redlands, California
WDEC4 (40-36, 39-37, 38-38)
David Morales (2-2-1 (0 KOs) Los Angeles, California.

HEAVYWEIGHTS
Oscar Torres (3-1, 1 KO), Los Angeles, California
WDEC4 (40-36, 40-36, 40-36)
Ignacio Zambrano (2-5, 0 KOs), Torrance, California

FIGHT PASS is a digital subscription service that is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. In 2019, FIGHT PASS will showcase more than 200 exclusive events featuring top promotions from around the world, providing fans with a front row seat to a broad spectrum of competitive fighting, including mixed martial arts, boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, individual and team submission grappling, and more.

Fight fans may access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.Vieja.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte, @elreymiranda, @UFCFightPass
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions, RealMiguelCotto

ALPINE, Cal. (January 30, 2019) — The official weigh in took place for tomorrow night’s (Thur., Jan. 31) inaugural RJJ Boxing on UFC Fight Pass® series event, at Viejas Casino and Resort in Alpine, California.

Below are the fighters’ official weights:

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS

MAIN EVENT – WBO Jr. BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE ELIMINATOR (12)*
Aston Palicte(24-2-1, 20 KOs), Bago City, Negros Occidental, Philippines 114.8 lbs.
Jose Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs), Las Marias, Puerto Rico 114.6 lbs.

CO-FEATURE – FEATHWERWEIGHTS (6)*
Edward Vasquez (5-0, 0 KOs), Fort Worth, Texas 125.6 lbs.
Brandon Cruz (6-0, 4 KOs), San Diego, California 125.8 lbs.

JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)*
Dilan Miranda (4-1, 3 KOs), San Diego, California by way of Mexico 119 lbs.
Daniel Constantino (2-2-1, 1 KO), Compton, California 118.8 lbs.

FEMALE FEATHERWEIGHTS (4 X 2)
Jessica Juarez (1-0, 1 KO), San Diego, California 128 lbs.
Kailyn Hansen (1-2, 0 KOs), Whittier, California 126.4 lbs.

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
Anthony Franco (3-1-1, 0 KOs), Redlands, California 146.8 lbs.
David Morales (2-1-1 (0 KOs) Los Angeles, California 146 lbs.

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)
Oscar Torrez (3-0, 1 KO), Los Angeles, California 215.8 lbs.
Ignacio Zambrano (2-4, 0 KOs), Torrance, California 228.8 lbs.

*denotes live-streamed on UFC Fight Pass

WHERE: Oak Ballroom in Viejas Casino & Resort, Alpine, California (35 miles outside of San Diego)

PROMOTER: Roy Jones Jr (RJJ) Boxing Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions

LIVE STREAM: UFC FIGHT PASS®, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT

FIGHT PASS is a digital subscription service that is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. In 2019, FIGHT PASS will showcase more than 200 exclusive events featuring top promotions from around the world, providing fans with a front row seat to a broad spectrum of competitive fighting, including mixed martial arts, boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, individual and team submission grappling, and more.

Fight fans may access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

ANNOUNCING TEAM: Sean Wheelock (blow-by-blow) and James “Smitty” Smith (color analyst)

RING ANNOUNCER: Michael Vale

TICKETS: $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00, on sale and available to purchase at www.viejas.com or at the box office.

OTHER: Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first bout 5:30 p.m., Fight Pass starts at 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET)

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.Vieja.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte, @elreymiranda, @UFCFightPass
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions, RealMiguelCotto

WHAT: RJJ Boxing on UFC Fight Pass

WHO: MAIN EVENT – WBO Jr. BANTAMWEIGHT WORLD TITLE ELIMINATOR (12)*
“Mighty” Aston Palicte(24-2-1, 20 KOs), Bago City, Negros Occidental, Philippines
vs.
Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs), Las Marias, Puerto Rico

CO-FEATURE – FEATHWERWEIGHTS (6)*
Edward “Kid” Vasquez (5-0, 0 KOs), Fort Worth, Texas
vs.
Brandon “2 Smooth” Cruz (6-0, 4 KOs), San Diego, California

JUNIOR FEATHERWEIGHTS (6)*
Dilan “El Rey” Miranda (4-1, 3 KOs), San Diego, California by way of Mexico
vs.
Daniel Constantino (2-2-1, 1 KO), Compton, California

FEMALE FEATHERWEIGHTS (4 X 2)
Jessica Juarez (1-0, 1 KO), San Diego, California
vs.
Kailyn Hansen (1-2, 0 KOs), Whittier, California

WELTERWEIGHTS (4)
Anthony Franco (3-1-1, 0 KOs), Redlands, California
vs.
David Morales (2-1-1 (0 KOs)

HEAVYWEIGHTS (4)
Oscar Torres (3-0, 1 KO), Los Angeles, California
vs.
Ignacio Zambrano (2-4, 0 KOs), Torrance, California

*denotes live-streamed on UFC Fight Pass
(ALL FIGHTS & FIGHTERS SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

WHEN: Thursday, January 31, 2019

WHERE: Oak Ballroom in Viejas Casino & Resort, Alpine, California (35 miles outside of San Diego)

PROMOTER: Roy Jones Jr (RJJ) Boxing Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions

LIVE STREAM: UFC FIGHT PASS®, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT

FIGHT PASS is a digital subscription service that is now available in more than 200 countries and territories. In 2019, FIGHT PASS will showcase more than 200 exclusive events featuring top promotions from around the world, providing fans with a front row seat to a broad spectrum of competitive fighting, including mixed martial arts, boxing, kickboxing, Muay Thai, individual and team submission grappling, and more.

Fight fans may access FIGHT PASS on personal computers, iOS and Android mobile devices, Apple TV, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, Roku, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, and Sony TVs with Android TV.

ANNOUNCING TEAM: Sean Wheelock (blow-by-blow) and James “Smitty” Smith (color analyst)

RING ANNOUNCER: Michael Vale

TICKETS: $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00, on sale and available to purchase at www.viejas.com or at the box office.

OFFICIAL WEIGH IN: Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2019 @ 3 p.m. / PT on scale, in front of Oakwood Ballroom in Viejas Casino and Resort, Alpine, California. PUBLIC WELCOME

OTHER: Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first bout 5:30 p.m., Fight Pass starts at 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET)

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.Vieja.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte, @elreymiranda, @UFCFightPass
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions, RealMiguelCotto

LAS VEGAS (January 24, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions has put together a solid card to support the World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior bantamweight world title eliminator between “Mighty” Aston Palicte (24-2-1, 20 KOs) and Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs) on January 31 at Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California.

Promoted by RJJ Boxing Promotions in association with Miguel Cotto Promotions, Palicte vs. Martinez will headline a card that will stream live on UFC FIGHT PASS®, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT, in the inaugural event of a new agreement between Palicte’s promoter, RJJ Boxing, and FIGHT PASS, to live stream up to 72 professional boxing events over the next three years.

The event will be held on the Thursday night of Super Bowl week, in the Oak Ballroom at Viejas Casino & Resort, which is located 35 miles outside of San Diego.

The winner of the Palicte vs. Martinez 12-round main event will become the mandatory challenger for new WBO junior bantamweight and four-division world champion, Donnie Nietes (42-1-5, 24 KO). WBO No. 2 rated Palicte is promoted by Roy Jones Jr. Boxing, WBO No. 4 ranked Martinez by Miguel Cotto Promotions.

Last September, Palicte (WBO No. 2) fought a 12-round split draw with his fellow Filipino, Nietes, for the then vacant WBO Junior bantamweight championship.

GO HERE TO WATCH PALICTE-MARTINEZ PROMO VIDEO:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/rgtp4a9rl8hqbmp/%22Are%20you%20ready%3F%27%27%20RJJ%20.mov?dl=0

The co-featured event is a rare six-round match-up of two undefeated prospects, Texas featherweight Edward “Kid” Vasquez (5-0) and San Diego’s Brandon “2 Smooth” Cruz (6-0, 4 KOs). Styles make fights and consummate boxer Vasquez vs. slugger Cruz has all the ingredients for a highly entertaining, competitive fight.

The FIGHT PASS opener pits local favorite Dilan “El Rey” Miranda (4-1, 3 KOs) versus Daniel Constantino (2-2-1, 1 KO), who is straight out of Compton (CA), in a scheduled six-round, junior featherweight bout.

Fighting on the off-streamed card in four-round fights are San Diego featherweight Jessica Juarez (1-0, 1 KO) vs. Kailyn Hansen (1-2), of Whittier, CA; Redlands, CA welterweight vs. David Morales (2-1-1), of Los Angeles; Los Angeles heavyweight Oscar Torres (3-0, 1 KO) vs. Ignacio Zambrano (2-4), of Torrance, CA.

All fights and fighters are subject to change.
Tickets are priced at $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00 and available to purchase by going online at www.viejas.com.

Doors open at 5 p.m. PT, first bout 5:30 p.m., FIGHT PASS starts at 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET)

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.Vieja.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte, @elreymiranda, @UFCFightPass
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions, RealMiguelCotto,

LAS VEGAS (January 17, 2019) – World title challenger “Mighty” Aston Palicte (24-2-1, 20 KOs) is fighting to establish his Filipino boxing legacy, starting January 31st, when he takes on unbeaten Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs) in a World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior bantamweight world title eliminator.

Co-promoted by Roy Jones Jr. (RJJ) Boxing Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions, Palicte vs. Martinez will headline a card that will stream live on UFC FIGHT PASS on Thursday, January 31, 2019, live from Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California, starting at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. The show is the first under a new agreement between Palicte’s promoter, RJJ Boxing, and FIGHT PASS, to live stream up to 72 professional boxing events over the next three years.

The event will be held on the Thursday night of Super Bowl week, in the Oak Ballroom at Viejas Casino & Resort, which is located 35 miles outside of San Diego.

On the line is the mandatory challenger status for the winner of the Palicte vs. Martinez 12-round main event for reigning WBO junior bantamweight title holder and four-division world champion, Donnie Nietes (42-1-5, 24 KO), one of the all-time greatest Filipino fighters.

Palicte (WBO No. 2) is coming off a controversial 12-round split draw with Nietes last September in Inglewood, California, for the then vacant WBO Junior bantamweight championship. Many at ringside felt that Palicte should have won the Filipino showdown, based on his relentless pressure and considerably higher activity rate.

“I felt like I won the fight,” Palicte said, “but a draw is better than a loss. I expected to win that fight. I got him good in the early round, his face was all swollen, but I respect the judges’ decision. I can’t do anything about that now, but we will have a rematch if I defeat Martinez.

“I was disappointed to learn we were not going to have an immediate rematch like I had thought, but this fight will be good preparation for me to fight Nietes again for the world title. Of course, I need to win this fight and it’s very important, because a win will draw me closer to my dream of being world champion. Martinez (WBO #4) is a good fighter, but I’m confident I can win this fight. I’m still very hungry. I missed the first time but, this time, I’m not letting it go. A win and I will be challenging Nietes and this time around I will strip him of the world title belt.”

Palicite, who is ranked No. 9 in independent world ratings by The Ring magazine, has been training at the famed Wild Card Gym in Hollywood, California, along with superstar Manny Pacquiao, who is training there for his Jan. 19th showdown with Adrien Broner.

“It’s good to be back in the U.S. to fight again,” Palicte commented. “It’s a bit sad because I’m away from my whole family, but I still get to talk to them every day. I’m a husband and father of my year-old boy. They are my reason for striving harder in my boxing career for the future of my family. They’re my inspiration and reason why I’m here now.”

Palicte’s native Philippines has produced great boxers for the past century, dating back to Pancho Villa, continuing with Flash Elorde, and now peaking with Pacquiao, Nonito Donaire and Nietes. The 27-year-old Palicte is the undisputed leader of the contemporary wave of young world-class Filipino fighters, which brings honor, pride and, of course, added pressure.

Although he isn’t looking past Martinez, far from it, Palcite is confident of defeating Martinez and then Nietes for the coveted crown. “There is pressure to be the next great Filipino fighter,” Palcite admitted. “I’ve been waiting for this my whole life. I nearly did it (win world title) the last time and I’m not stopping until I get that world title belt. I had hoped to get it the first time, but I think it’s going to be sweeter the second time around.”

Tickets are priced at $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00 and available to purchase by going online at www.viejas.com.

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, Viejas.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @RoyJonesJrOfficial, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @CottoPromotions, @RealMiguelCotto, @Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions, RealMiguelCotto

LAS VEGAS (December 20, 2019) – Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions and Miguel Cotto Promotions will co-promote a potential early candidate for the 2019 Fight of the Year, when world title challenger “Mighty” Aston Palicte (24-2-1, 20 KOs) takes on unbeaten Jose “Chiquiro” Martinez (20-0-2, 13 KOs) in a World Boxing Organization (WBO) junior bantamweight title eliminator on Thursday, January 31, at Viejas Casino & Resort in Alpine, California.

Palicte vs.Martinez will headline a soon-to-be-announced card in the 12-round main event, held on the Thursday night of Super Bowl week, in the Oak Ballroom. Viejas Casino & Resort is located 35 miles outside of San Diego.

The winner of the Palicte vs. Martinez title eliminator will become the mandatory challenger for the winner of the New Year’s Eve match in China for the vacant WBO Junior Bantamweight World Championship, between No. 1 contender Donnie Nietes (41-1-5, 23 KOs) and No. 3-rated Kazuito Ioka (23-1, 13 KOs).

Palicte and Martinez will continue a Philippines-Puerto Rico boxing rivalry that dates back many years, perhaps, highlighted by the 2009 showdown between Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto, in which the fabulous Filipino defeated the Puerto Rican warrior by way of a 12th round technical knockout. It marks the first time Jones and Cotto, two of the greatest boxers of all-time, will be in opposite corners, in terms of competing fighters they promote, respectively, Palicte and Martinez.

“Having our new partnership with Viejas Casino & Resort allows us to host these great fights,” Roy Jones Jr. Boxing Promotions CEO/Co-founder Keith Veltre remarked. “Having a Roy Jones Jr. and Miguel Cotto fighter face-off makes this fight even more exciting. 2019 is going to be the biggest and most active year for RJJ Boxing.”

“This is the type of fight that changes your career,” Hall of Famer/promoterCotto said. “We know ‘Chiquiro’ Martinez is ready for the challenge and it will be an exciting fight. Promoting this fight, together with Roy Jones, Jr., will be great for boxing. We really look forward to start 2019 with a great fight like Martinez vs. Palicte.”

“All of us at Viejas are excited to be working with Roy Jones, Jr. and look forward to this amazing event,” added Jimmy Wild, GM Viejas Casino & Resort.

Palicte (WBO No. 2) heads the latest wave of world-class Filipino boxers, who is coming off a controversial 12-round split draw with his fellow countryman, 3-division world champion Nietes, for the vacant WBO Junior bantamweight title this past September in Inglewood, California. Many at ringside felt that Palicte should have won the Filipino showdown, based on his relentless pressure and considerably higher activity rate, throwing 300-plus more punches than Nietes.

Palicte is also ranked No. 9 in independent world ratings by The Ring magazine.

Martinez (WBO No, 4), who captured the vacant WBO North American Boxing Organization (NABO) Championship on November 16, 2017, knocking out Jesus Martinez (23-2-1, 11 KOs) in Cancun Mexico, has also held the World Boxing Council Latino and WBC USNBC Silver crowns.

“I want to thank God for this great opportunity,” Martinez commented. “Thank you, Miguel Cotto and the WBO. I feel excited because this is the most important fight of my career with a high-level boxer as Palicte. I will train really hard to be in the best condition. We are really focusing on getting the big win on January 31st.”

Priced at $65.00, $55.00 and $45.00, tickets go on sale tomorrow (Fri., Dec. 21), and are available to purchase by going online at www.viejas.com.

INFORMATION:

Websites: www.RoyJonesJrBoxing.com, www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com, www.www.promocionesmiguelcotto.com
Twitter: @RoyjonesJRfa, @CottoPromotions, @viejascasino, @AstonPalicte
Instagram: @RoyJonesJRboxing, @artofmusiclv, @rivalboxinggear, @Viejascasinoresort, @astonmightypalicte
Facebook: /RJJBoxing, /ViejasCasinoAndResort, /MiguelCottoPromotions