KUBRAT PULEV PROMISING ‘FIRE & FURY’ IN IBF ELIMINATOR AGAINST HUGHIE FURY ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 27, IN SOFIA, BULGARIA

On Saturday, October 27, “Fire & Fury” will collide, as IBF #2-rated heavyweight contender Kubrat “The Cobra” Pulev will face Britain’s IBF #5-rated Hughie Fury in a 12-round elimination bout at the Arena Armeec in Pulev’s hometown of Sofia, Bulgaria.

Pulev (25-1, 13 KOs) and Fury (21-1, 11 KOs) will be competing for the right to face the winner of the September 22 showdown between champion Anthony Joshua and challenger Alexander Povetkin.

The event, entitled “Fire & Fury” will be presented by Ivaylo Gotzev and John Wirt’s Epic Sports and Entertainment, together with Fury’s promoter, Hennessey Sports, and will be broadcast live in the UK on Channel 5.

One of the most popular athletes in all of Bulgaria, 37-year-old Pulev is on a five-fight winning streak, including a TKO 3 over former heavyweight champion Samuel Peter. Among his many distinctions, Pulev is a former two-time European and IBF International Heavyweight Champion. He stands 6’ 4 ½” and weighs in around 240 lbs. Pulev’s only career loss came in a challenge for the undisputed heavyweight championship against Wladimir Klitschko in 2014. Fury is the fourth opponent scheduled to face Pulev, as Britain’s Dillian Whyte and Americans Jarell Miller and Dominic Breazeale all declined the fight.

Pulev, who will be having his first bout since partnering with Epic Sports and Entertainment, says Fury better not be looking past him while preparing for this fight.

“The fact that Hughie Fury is coming to Bulgaria when many others ran away speaks volumes,” said Pulev. “I understand that he is very motivated because this is an eliminator fight for a chance at the world title. I suggest he stops thinking about the world title for a moment and come prepared for a real battle. I am already in beast mode and I’m hungry for my return in the ring!”

Fury hails from Manchester and is the current BBBofC British Heavyweight Champion and is trained by his father, Peter Fury. The 23-year-old stands 6’ 6” tall and also weighs in around 240 lbs. In September of 2017, Fury suffered his only career loss, a controversial majority decision to Joseph Parker for Parker’s WBO Heavyweight Championship.

“It’s taken a lot of time to make this fight happen and I want to thank all of those involved,” said Hughie Fury. “I want to fight for world titles and to do that I need to beat the guys at the top of the division. Kubrat Pulev is a serious fight for the mandatory position and I know I’ve got to be the real deal to beat him. I believe I’m going to do that in his back yard where others trembled at the thought of it.”

“We want to be involved in these big fight nights and to go up against the big names that lead the division,” added father and trainer Peter Fury. “To become a world heavyweight champion, you’ve got to overcome every challenge that’s put in front of you. And for Hughie that starts in Bulgaria in October.”

“In this day and age, when some promoters and their fighters opt for the safest bets, Hughie Fury has done the opposite,” said Ivaylo Gotzev of Fury, who has faced his own share of delays and disappointments on his way to this eliminator bout. “Fury has decided to step into the Lion’s Den, and fight Kubrat in his home town of Sofia. This matchup is intriguing, as two of the best in the division step up and face one another. We expect a great heavyweight battle – one that will decide one man’s destiny to fight for the most coveted title in the world – the Heavyweight Championship. To all of Team Fury – you are welcome in Bulgaria!”

Hennessy Sports CEO Mick Hennessy, promoter of Fury, said: “First and foremost I’d like to heap praise on my young fighter Hughie Fury. There’s no pantomime and no theatrics. He’s just a young man, full of respect for everyone he faces, and who believes in giving the fans proper fights and value for money. At just 23 years of age Hughie is a massive talent. He’s not perhaps got the plaudits he deserves, so this is his moment to make the boxing world really sit up and take notice of what he’s capable of.”

“I’d also like to thank my counterparts at Epic Sports & Entertainment for making this fight happen. It’s taken a lot to get to this point, but we were determined to give the fans a fight that they deserve. Both teams are excited about this one.”

The stacked International undercard, along with ticket details, will be revealed shortly.




Epic Sports wins Pulev – Whte purse bid

Dillian Whyte v Lucas Browne Weigh-In
The Courthouse Hotel, Shoreditch
Pic: Christopher Dean / Scantech Media Ltd / Matchroom
07930 364436
chris@scantechmedia.com
www.scantechmedia.com

Epic Sports won the purse bid to stage a IBF heavyweight elimination bout between Kubrat Pulev and Dillian Whyte, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

Epic Sports & Entertainment, headed by former longtime Don King attorney John Wirt, won with a bid of $1,500,111 to easily beat two other bidders. Matchroom Boxing’s Eddie Hearn, Whyte’s promoter, offered $831,111, while Pulev promoter Team Sauerland bid $801,305.

Pulev is entitled to 75 percent of the winning bid ($1,125,083.25), and Whyte will receive the remaining 25 percent ($375,027.75).




Pulev – Whyte eliminator on tap?

Dillian Whyte v Lucas Browne Weigh-In
The Courthouse Hotel, Shoreditch
Pic: Christopher Dean / Scantech Media Ltd / Matchroom
07930 364436
chris@scantechmedia.com
www.scantechmedia.com

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, an IBF Heavyweight elimination bout could be on tap between Kubrat Pulev and Dillian Whyte.

“We accepted the IBF final eliminator against Breazeale. Unfortunately, he did not fancy boxing Kubrat so now the next ranked is Dillian Whyte,” Team Sauerland promoter Nisse Sauerland, Pulev’s promoter, told ESPN on Wednesday. “We are already in dialogue with [Whyte’s] promotional team and would love to take this fight to [Bulgarian capital] Sofia, where Pulev can sell out a stadium. It’s great news for Pulev and Whyte as both want to fight for the world title and this gives a guaranteed shot whilst providing the fans with a super fight along the way.”

“We’ve put all of our eggs in a basket with the WBC [whose belt Wilder holds] and [Whyte is] No. 1, but until the convention comes around they won’t make a move and make him the mandatory,” Hearn told ESPN. “They could also order a final eliminator, so it’s a difficult decision. It’s a good opportunity with Pulev and it’s a fight we fancy. But Whyte is also chasing Deontay Wilder, which might not materialize. I’m not sure yet what Dillian and the team want to do, but I know this: If you are the IBF mandatory you will get a world title shot against someone.”




PULEV OUT – TAKAM IN FOR JOSHUA CLASH

Carlos Takam has replaced Kubrat Pulev as the IBF mandatory challenger for Anthony Joshua at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on October 28, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Frenchman Takam is rated at number three with the governing body and has been on the hunt for a showdown with the British star, and gets his golden chance at ripping away Joshua’s titles in the Welsh capital after Pulev picked up a shoulder injury in sparring.

“I received a call from Kalle Sauerland late afternoon to inform me that Pulev had injured his shoulder and maybe ruled out of the fight – this was later confirmed by his doctor,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “IBF rules state that the mandatory will go to the next fighter in line which is Carlos Takam.

“When the Pulev fight was announced I made a deal with Takam’s team to begin camp and be on standby for this fight. When I called them this evening they were overjoyed and good to go. It’s a difficult position for AJ having prepared meticulously for the style and height of Pulev, he now faces a completely different style and challenge in Takam – this hasn’t happened in his career before but he is ready for all comers on October 28.”

Joshua’s clash with Takam is part of a huge night of action in Cardiff where the 2012 London Olympic Gold medal man’s bitter foe Dillian Whyte aims to take a giant step to his first World title shot by facing Robert Helenius for the WBC Silver strap.

Kal Yafai defends his WBA Wold Super-Flyweight title against Japanese mandatory challenger Sho Ishida and Irish sensation Katie Taylor challenges for her first World title as she takes on two-weight World champion Anahi Esther Sanchez for the WBA Lightweight crown.

There’s a mouth-watering British and Commonwealth Light-Heavyweight battle between Frank Buglioni, Lenroy Thomas and Dave Allen rematch for the Commonwealth Heavyweight title and Team GB Olympian and Welsh talent Joe Cordina appears in his fifth pro outing.

A limited number of tickets remain on sale via www.StubHub.co.uk.

Accessibility, ambulant and wheelchair tickets – please contact the Principality stadium via 02920 822432 – also on sale from midday Tuesday.

Official hospitality packages are available to purchase directly from Principality Stadium Experience. Both private suite and premium lounge packages are available to purchase, with prices starting from £450 per person + VAT. For further information please call the team on 02920 822 413.

Official Travel & Hospitality packages are also available via Sportsworld via www.sportsworld.co.uk or by calling 0208 9712966

Please ensure you plan your travel into the city before purchasing your tickets and allow plenty of time for additional security checks at the venue – please visit http://www.principalitystadium.wales/events/v/joshua-v-pulev-2017-10-28 to view the travel page for the event.




talkSPORT LAND EXCLUSIVE RADIO RIGHTS TO FOUR BLOCKBUSTER FIGHT NIGHTS

Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing are delighted to announce a deal with talkSPORT radio for four huge fight nights – including Anthony Joshua MBE’s World Heavyweight title blockbuster with Kubrat Pulev in Cardiff.

talkSPORT’s deal kicks off in style tomorrow night as they provide live commentary from the Manchester Arena of Anthony Crolla and Ricky Burns’ Lightweight blockbuster, with recent World title challenger Luke Campbell MBE providing expert analysis on a fight that he’ll be looking at the winner as a future foe.

Belfast is next on the schedule as Northern Ireland hosts it’s first ever World title unification bout as hometown star Ryan Burnett puts his IBF Bantamweight title on the line against WBA Super king Zhanat Zhakiyanov on Saturday October 21.

A week later, Cardiff takes centre-stage in the boxing world as the sport’s biggest star Joshua takes on Bulgarian Pulev in front of a record-breaking crowd at Principality Stadium in the Welsh capital, with the bumper bill also featuring World title fights for Kal Yafai and Katie Taylor.

Finally, talkSPORT take their position at ringside at The O2 in London for the hotly-anticipated rematch between Tony Bellew and David Haye, as the bitter Heavyweight rivals tangle again on Sunday December 17.

Liam Fisher, National Radio controller, talkSPORT said: “We are hugely excited to be extending our commitment to live sport with these four fights. With World champion Anthony Joshua, David Haye, Tony Bellew and more we have some of the biggest and best fighters on talkSPORT. This complements our 500 live football games on talkSPORT and talkSPORT2 and we promise some heavyweight coverage across the station.”

“I’m delighted to team up with talkSPORT for four huge fight nights,” said Hearn. “We start in Manchester this weekend with the big England v Scotland clash with Crolla vs. Burns then we are off to Belfast for the World title unification clash between Burnett and Zhakiyanov.

“The end of October sees boxing’s biggest star Joshua return to the ring and we close out the year with the big rematch between Bellew and Haye. Fight fans know where to tune to follow the live action and all the support programming around the fights.”




ANTHONY JOSHUA VS. KUBRAT PULEV HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FIGHT TO AIR LIVE ON SHOWTIME SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28


NEW YORK – September 21, 2017 – SHOWTIME Sports® will close out a banner year of world-class boxing with back-to-back Saturdays featuring heavyweight world championship fights live on SHOWTIME. The network announced today coverage of unified heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua’s upcoming WBA and IBF world title defense against top-rated mandatory challenger Kubrat Pulev on Saturday, October 28 live on SHOWTIME from Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales.

The October 28 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecast will be the first of two heavyweight world title fights airing live on SHOWTIME on consecutive Saturdays, with WBC World Champion Deontay Wilder set to defend his title against undefeated contender Luis Ortiz on Saturday, November 4. Both main event bouts will air live on SHOWTIME as the network concludes a robust 2017 boxing campaign that will have featured 22 world championship fights, 16 bouts matching fellow undefeated fighters, three world title unifications, three world title rematches and the emergence of three bright young stars (Errol Spence Jr., Gervonta Davis and David Benavidez) as they earned their first world titles.

With the addition of Joshua vs. Pulev, four of the consensus top-five heavyweights in the world will compete on SHOWTIME in consecutive weeks. Joshua vs. Pulev and Wilder vs. Ortiz will be the ninth and 10th heavyweight world championship bouts to air live on SHOWTIME in the last two years.

“There’s so much to be excited about in the sport of boxing, and it all comes to a fever pitch on consecutive Saturdays this fall on SHOWTIME,” said Stephen Espinoza, Executive Vice President and General Manager of SHOWTIME Sports. “This has been a great year for boxing. More specifically, it has been a great year for SHOWTIME boxing. There’s no better way to end it than with two major heavyweight world championship events. We are proud to be in business with the two biggest punchers in the sport, Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder, and the rest of the talented and hungry heavyweight challengers of today.”

Joshua, the undefeated British superstar (19-0, 19 KOs), exploded onto the world stage in April when he defeated heavyweight legend Wladimir Klitschko via a spectacular come-from-behind knockout. In the year’s leading Fight of the Year candidate, a bout that aired live on SHOWTIME, Joshua picked up the vacant WBA heavyweight title to go along with his IBF belt. Now, Joshua returns to take on the top-ranked IBF challenger in Pulev (25-1, 13 KOs) at the 70,000 seat national stadium in Wales.

Joshua, 27, has remarkably knocked out all of his opponents since turning pro shortly after winning gold in the 2012 Olympics. The Watford, England native won his first title with a second-round KO of defending IBF Heavyweight Champion Charles Martin in April 2016, earning a heavyweight belt in the fewest number of fights in more than 20 years. He has since successfully defended the title three times – against Dominic Breazeale in June of 2016, Eric Molina in December and Klitschko in April.

Pulev, of Sofia, Bulgaria, will be making his second attempt at winning the IBF world championship, having lost to Klitschko in his first try in November 2014. After that, his lone loss, Pulev quickly rebounded and became a two-time European champion with a win over Dereck Chisora. He also holds wins over two former world title foes of Klitschko in Samuel Peter and Kevin Johnson.

Joshua vs. Pulev is promoted by Matchroom Sport. Fewer than 200 tickets remain on sale via www.StubHub.co.uk priced at £300.

For more information, visit www.sho.com/sports, follow us on Twitter @ShowtimeBoxing, or become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/SHOBoxing.

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




70,000 TICKETS SOLD AS JOSHUA VS. PULEV BREAKS ATTENDANCE RECORD


A record breaking 70,000 tickets have been sold for the World Heavyweight title showdown between Anthony Joshua MBE and Kubrat Pulev at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on October 28, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Tickets have been snapped up by fans eager to see the biggest star in the sport meet his IBF mandatory challenger in his 20th pro outing as he hunts a 20th straight KO win – and the event has become the fastest selling sporting show at the stadium, and has beaten the record set when 63,000 witnessed the rematch between Muhammad Ali and Leon Spinks at the New Orleans Superdrome in 1978.

“It was another incredible day at the box office for Anthony Joshua as he continues to cement his place as the biggest draw in World boxing,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “The support he receives from the British public is incredible and has been an integral part of his success – the fans will be in for a great night on October 28 and we thank them all for their support.”

A star-studded cast line-up in support of Joshua’s clash with the Bulgarian, as Kal Yafai defends his WBA Wold Super-Flyweight title against Japanese mandatory challenger Sho Ishida and Irish sensation Katie Taylor challenges for her first World title as she takes on two-weight World champion Anahi Esther Sanchez for the WBA Lightweight crown.

There’s a mouth-watering British and Commonwealth Light-Heavyweight battle between Frank Buglioni, Lenroy Thomas and Dave Allen rematch for the Commonwealth Heavyweight title and Team GB Olympian and Welsh talent Joe Cordina appears in his fifth pro outing.

A limited number of tickets remain on sale via www.StubHub.co.uk priced at £40, £60, £200 and £300.

Accessibility, ambulant and wheelchair tickets – please contact the Principality stadium via 02920 822432 – also on sale from midday Tuesday.

Official hospitality packages are available to purchase directly from Principality Stadium Experience. Both private suite and premium lounge packages are available to purchase, with prices starting from £450 per person + VAT. For further information please call the team on 02920 822 413.

Official Travel & Hospitality packages are also available via Sportsworld via www.sportsworld.co.uk or by calling 0208 9712966

Please ensure you plan your travel into the city before purchasing your tickets and allow plenty of time for additional security checks at the venue – please visit http://www.principalitystadium.wales/events/v/joshua-v-pulev-2017-10-28 to view the travel page for the event.




TAYLOR LANDS FIRST WORLD TITLE SHOT ON AJ BILL

Katie Taylor will fight for her first World title as she meets two-weight World champion Anahi Esther Sanchez for the WBA Lightweight crown on the undercard of Anthony Joshua MBE’s World Heavyweight title showdown with Kubrat Pulev at Principality Stadium in Cardiff on October 28, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Irish amateur sensation Taylor moved to 6-0 in the paid ranks with a fourth stoppage win in her US debut last time out in New York in July and saw off Nina Meinke in an eliminator for the WBA crown at Wembley Stadium in April as part of the supporting cast to Joshua’s epic win over Wladimir Klitschko.

Sanchez collected the vacant strap on Saturday night with a stoppage win over Argentine compatriot Cecila Sofia Mena in Buenos Aires, adding that to the IBF Super-Featherweight crown the 26 year old claimed in 2016 having moved up from Featherweight where she held the interim IBF strap – but Taylor is confident she will make her WBA Lightweight reign a short one and triumph in Wales.

“I’m delighted that the World title fight has been confirmed and on such a big stage as well,” said Taylor. “This is what I’m in boxing for to win World titles and be in big fights on big nights like this.

“Sanchez has won multiple World titles so I’m expecting a very tough fight but I definitely feel I’m ready for it and these are the kind of challenges I want.

“It’s such a great time for boxing right now to have these huge events. Boxing at Wembley on the Joshua – Klitschko card was a great experience and now to have the opportunity to become World Champion at Principality Stadium is very special and October 28 can’t come soon enough.”

Taylor challenges Sanchez on a bumper bill in support of Joshua’s showdown with Pulev, the third World title bout on the card as Kal Yafai defends his WBA Super-Flyweight title against unbeaten mandatory challenger Sho Ishida.

Frank Buglioni and Callum Johnson meet for the British and Commonwealth Light-Heavyweight titles, Lenroy Thomas and Dave Allen rematch for the Commonwealth Heavyweight title and Team GB Olympian and Welsh talent Joe Cordina appears in his fifth pro outing.

Tickets go on general sale at midday on Tuesday September 12 via www.StubHub.co.uk

Tickets for the event are priced at £40, £60, £80, £100, £200, £300 and £500 – with VIP tickets priced at £1500.

Accessibility, ambulant and wheelchair tickets – please contact the Principality stadium via 02920 822432 – also on sale from midday Tuesday.

Don’t miss out on tickets. Sign up now and add your delivery address and payment details on StubHub here

Official hospitality packages are available to purchase directly from Principality Stadium Experience. Both private suite and premium lounge packages are available to purchase, with prices starting from £450 per person + VAT. For further information please call the team on 02920 822 413.

Official Travel & Hospitality packages are also available via Sportsworld via www.sportsworld.co.uk or by calling 0208 9712966

Please ensure you plan your travel into the city before purchasing your tickets and allow plenty of time for additional security checks at the venue – please visit http://www.principalitystadium.wales/events/v/joshua-v-pulev-2017-10-28 to view the travel page for the event.




Video: Joshua – Pulev Press Conference

https://www.facebook.com/SkySports/videos/10155734496773762/




JOSHUA-PULEV TICKETS ON SALE FROM MONDAY


Tickets for the blockbuster Heavyweight World title clash between Anthony Joshua MBE and Kubrat Pulev go on pre-sale to Matchroom Fight Pass members at midday on Monday and general sale on Tuesday ahead of the October 28 event live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Joshua is back in action after his epic win over Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley Stadium, and the unbeaten British star now heads to Wales’ national stadium to face IBF mandatory challenger Pulev.

Tickets for the event are priced at £40, £60, £80, £100, £200, £300 and £500 – with VIP tickets priced at £1500.

Tickets go on sale to Matchroom Fight Pass members at midday on Monday September 11 via www.StubHub.co.uk

Tickets go on general sale at midday on Tuesday September 12 via www.StubHub.co.uk

Accessibility, ambulant and wheelchair tickets – please contact the Principality stadium via 02920 822432 – also on sale from midday Tuesday.

Don’t miss out on tickets. Sign up now and add your delivery address and payment details on StubHub here

Official hospitality packages are available to purchase directly from Principality Stadium Experience. Both private suite and premium lounge packages are available to purchase, with prices starting from £450 per person + VAT. For further information please call the team on 02920 822 413.

Official Travel & Hospitality packages are also available via Sportsworld via www.sportsworld.co.uk or by calling 0208 9712966

Please ensure you plan your travel into the city before purchasing your tickets and allow plenty of time for additional security checks at the venue – please visit http://www.principalitystadium.wales/events/v/joshua-v-pulev-2017-10-28 to view the travel page for the event.




JOSHUA CLASHES WITH PULEV IN CARDIFF


Anthony Joshua MBE will defend his World Heavyweight titles against Kubrat Pulev at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on October 28, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Joshua returns to the ring following his epic battle with Wladimir Klitschko at Wembley Stadium in April where the Brit added the WBA strap to his IBF belt in an enthralling contest with the future hall-of-fame legend, climbing off the canvas to record an 19th straight KO win in front of a record-breaking crowd in London.

The unbeaten Olympic gold medal hero will now tackle his IBF mandatory Pulev, the Bulgarian rated number one in the IBF facing his second World title challenge having faced Klitschko for the IBF title in November 2014. ‘The Cobra’ became a two-time European champion after the fight with a win over Dereck Chisora, and the 36 year old picked up and defended the WBA Inter-Continental title with wins over two former World title foes of ‘Dr Steelhammer’ in Samuel Peter and Kevin Johnson.

“October 28 can’t come soon enough, I have been eager to get back in the ring since Wembley and now we are confirmed and ready,” said Joshua. “I’ll be locked away focusing on fight number 20 for the next eight weeks. I am excited to experience the atmosphere in a sold out Principality Stadium and aim to give the fans a spectacular night.”

“Anthony is a formidable opponent,” said Pulev. “We will not hug and hold, we will not run; we will stand and fight. His style fits mine perfectly and in boxing, styles make fights. My preparation will be very intense, and I will be perfectly ready when I enter the ring so that he will have no chance to beat me.”

“I’m delighted that we will be in Cardiff at the magnificent Principality Stadium for the next step of the AJ journey,” said Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn. “Nearly 80,000 will gather on October 28 to create another unforgettable night of boxing. Anthony will meet his mandatory challenger, number one ranked Kubrat Pulev and the card will be stacked with World championship action, domestic title fights and the very best young stars in the game. Get ready for the next episode from the biggest star in World boxing.”

“Anthony is a great champion and his last fight ignited the division,” said Pulev’s promoter Kalle Sauerland. “However, by his own admission, he is still learning and Pulev is not the sort of opponent you want to learn against. Kubrat and his train Uli Wegner – Europe’s most successful professional coach – have studied every weakness for the Cobra to strike victoriously.”

Mark Williams, General Manager at Principality Stadium which is owned and operated by the Welsh Rugby Union, said: “Our national stadium is a true Heavyweight when it comes to bringing major events to Cardiff and today’s announcement strengthens our status as a year-round, multi-events arena, in the heart of a city-centre renowned for delivering a Welsh welcome to visitors from around the world.

“This year we’ve hosted 400,000 plus visitors across UEFA Champions League Final, Speedway and the RBS Six Nations; two sell-out Coldplay gigs and Robbie Williams and Justin Bieber concerts. The Joshua-Pulev fight is guaranteed to another spectacle which, thanks to our Terraplas pitch covering, brings another world-class event to town two weeks before Wales’ Under Armour Series.”

An announcement on ticket prices and on-sale dates will be made this week and the first undercard fights will be released in the coming days.




Pulev and Johnson weigh-in ready for WBA title clash

Kubrat Pulev (24-1, 13 KOs) and Kevin Johnson (30-7-1, 14 KOs) both weighed in today ahead of their WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship clash at the Arena Armeec in Sofia, Bulgaria, as did all the undercard fighters for tomorrow’s event.

Here is a list of the official weights from Sofia:

WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship – 12 Rounds:
Kubrat Pulev: 116.0 kg
Kevin Johnson: 111.35 kg

Cruiserweight – 6 Rounds:
Tervel Pulev: 90.89 kg
Jakub Wojcik: 90.35 kg

Lightweight – 8 Rounds:
Danail Stanoev: 61.7 kg
Ivaylo Boyanov: 60.6 kg

Middleweight – 6 Rounds:
Yosif Panov: 72.15 kg
Borislav Zankov: 72.9 kg

Light Heavyweight – 6 Rounds:
Leon Bunn: 80.5 kg
Slobodan Culum: 80.7 kg

Light Heavyweight – 6 Rounds:
Yosko Stoychev: 78.0 kg
Stanislav Sergeev: 80.85 kg

Heavyweight – 6 Rounds:
Albon Pervizaj: 103.2 kg
Lazar Stojanovic: 109.75 kg

Cruiserweight – 8 Rounds:
Kai Robin Havnaa: 88.9 kg
Laszlo Ivanyi: 85.5 kg

Light Middleweight – 4 Rounds:
Evengy Borisov: 69.8 kg
Ilian Markov: 67.8 kg

Bantamweight – 4 Rounds:
Georgi Andonov: 55.9 kg
Stefan Slavchev: 55.5 kg

Limited tickets for the WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight title fight between Kubrat Pulev and Kevin Johnson are available online via www.eventim.bg




Johnson: ‘’I’m going to break Pulev down and make him quit!

Kevin Johnson (30-7-1, 14 KOs) says he will break Kubrat Pulev (24-1, 13 KOs) down and make him quit when they meet for the WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight title on Friday night at the Arena Armeec in Sofia, Bulgaria.

‘’Pulev doesn’t scare me,’’ said the American heavyweight. ‘’He’s a cartoon character. He might look serious but that’s because he’s an ugly dude, and ugly people always look serious. Whereas, people like me always have a smile on their face. It is what it is. I can smile in person and I can whoop ass in the ring.

‘’On Friday, I’m going to break him down and make him quit. He can take a lot of shots but there will come a time when he’s going to say enough is enough. It might be in the fifth round, it might be in the seventh or it might be in the twelfth. It doesn’t matter; all that matters is that I’m taking that belt home!’’

Johnson can expect to face a partisan crowd in Sofia cheering for their national hero, but the 37 year-old plans to use this to his advantage, as he looks to rejuvenate his career with a victory over the IBF mandatory challenger.

‘’The louder they are and the more they cheer for him, the more energy I’m going to get,’’ he says. ‘’They may be shouting his name but I’m stealing that energy, and when his ass loses, what are they going to say then? People better start supporting me now because I know I got fans here. In fact, the president of Bulgaria called me personally and told me I should whoop his ugly ass!”

Tickets for the WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight title clash between Kubrat Pulev and Kevin Johnson are available online via http://www.eventim.bg.




FITE TV streaming Kubrat Pulev vs. Kevin Johnson this Friday on PPV live from Bulgaria

NEW YORK, NY(April 25, 2017) – FITE TV will stream this Friday’s (April 28) “Final Countdown” event, headlined by a heavyweight match of former world title contenders Kubrat “The Cobra” Pulev and Kevin “Kingpin” Johnson, live on pay per view, starting at 2 p.m. ET /11 a.m. PT, from Armeec Arena in Sofia, Bulgaria. Encore presentations will also be available to watch.

FITE TV is a Combat Sports Network that features boxing, MMA and wrestling programming. FITE gives viewers the choice to watch the program on line at www.FITE.tv, on their mobile device or on their WiFi connected television using the FITE app. The FITE app can be downloaded for free at Google Play or the iTunes app stores.

“Final Countdown: Pulev vs. Johnson”, promoted by Sauerland Promotions, is available to watch on the FITE app and website for a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Boxing fans may watch the entire card simply by downloading the FITE app and then cast the fight to the big screen by using the instant stream-to-TV function. The FITE app works with any Wi-Fi connected television around the world, iOS and Android devices, as well as streaming devices such as Roku, Chromecast and more. Fans may also watch the fights live on the FITE website at www.fite.tv from any computer.

Hometown favorite Pulev (24-1, 13 KOs) will make the first defense of the World Boxing Association (WBA) Inter-Continental heavyweight title he captured this past December. WBA No. 9 rated Pulev can position himself for another world title shot against the winner of Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko, who handed Pulev his only pro loss in their 2014 International Boxing Federation (IBF) title fight.

“Kevin Johnson is a good boxer who will give everything but he will not succeed,” Pulev said at today’s press conference. “My goal is to become World Champion. I know a loss will set me back a long way, but I’m confident in my abilities. My opponent is an experienced fighter who will be difficult to breakdown, but I’ve prepared for that. On Friday, I want to pit on another great show for the Bulgarian people and then, I want my shot at the world title.”

Johnson (30-7-1, 14 KOs), fighting out of Lawrenceville, Georgia, has fought reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua – the only fighter to stop Johnson – former unified world heavyweight titlist Tyson Fury, former world title challenger Manuel Charr and current European champion Christian Hammer. In 2009, Johnson lost his lone world title fight by unanimous decision to undefeated WBC champion Vitali Klitschko, extending him the full 12-rounds.

“If Pulev thinks he’s in for an easy night,” Johnson commented, “he’s got another thing coming. I’m not Samuel Peter. I’m not here to lie down and collect a check. I’m here to cause an upset. I’m going to take this boy to school and show the Bulgarians what a Jersey boy can do. I’m going to give him an ass whopping on Friday, the likes of which nobody has seen before. We’ve both been through the same obstacles and we’ve both fought for the world titles before, but only one of us is going to get that second shot, and that’s going to be me.

“The woman here are very beautiful and I’m looking to get married. On Saturday, I’m going to be leaving with a new belt and new wife!”

It’s a great weekend for heavyweight boxing,” promoter Nisse Sauerland added. “Kubrat is the mandatory challenger to face the winner of Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko for the IBF World title. Either they fight him or they vacate the belt. He’s fought hard to get back into this position and he’s risking it all in this fight against a rejuvenated Kevin Johnson. Kevin also knows what’s at stake and what a win would mean for his career. Both men have been training hard and are ready to give it their all in the ring Friday night.”

Additional PPV fights are scheduled on FITE TV on a weekly basis.

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INFORMATION:
www.fite.tv
Twitter: @FiteTV, #PulevJohnsonPPV
ABOUT FITE TV: FITE TV (www.fite.tv) is a programming network that brings live and on-demand ring sports programs to MMA, wrestling and boxing fans around the world. With only access to a smartphone and a connected TV, with the FITE app, viewers can watch live events, on-demand programming, interviews and fighting sports related movies and documentaries on the big TV screen.

During the last few months, FITE has tripled the viewing time by user and has become a shared-space for die-hard fight fans to stay connected to their favorite sport every day. As a full-fledged TV programming network, FITE televises live pay-per-views and TV tapings on a weekly schedule.

FITE was launched on February 9th, 2016 as a product of Flipps Media Inc, a company that brings digital entertainment content (movies, news and video) on television with its patented tap-to-stream functionality. Flipps Media Inc. is funded by EarlyBird Venture Capital, Tim Draper and LAUNCHub.

ABOUT MP & Silva: MP & Silva owns, manages and distributes television and media rights to some of the most prestigious sports events around the world, with a portfolio that provides over 10,000 hours of programming annually to over 200 broadcasters in 215 countries. MP & Silva also provides complimentary sponsorship, digital and technology services. Headquartered in London and Singapore, it operates worldwide through regional offices in Beijing, Budapest, Dubai, Dublin, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, Luxembourg, Miami, Monaco, Munich, New York, Paris, Taipei, Tokyo and Warsaw. In May 2016, MP & Silva created a strategic partnership with Everbright, a leading financial services company in China and Baofeng, an internet entertainment and technology company, specializing in Virtual Reality and digital entertainment, through an investment from Shanghai Jin Xin investment fund (“Shanghai Jin Xin”). For more information visit http://mpsilva.com/




Pulev and Johnson come face-to-face ahead of WBA title showdown

Kubrat Pulev (24-1, 13 KOs) and Kevin Johnson (30-7-1, 14 KOs) came face-to-face at a press conference today at the Hotel Marinela in Sofia ahead of their WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight title clash on Friday night at the Arena Armeec.

Pulev makes the first defence of the WBA strap he claimed with a third-round stoppage victory over former World Champion Samuel Peter in December, and also risks his IBF mandatory position, which would see him in line to face the winner of Saturday’s World title showdown between Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko.

Johnson, the former World title challenger from New Jersey, USA, insists he is not there to make up the numbers, and is also targeting a second shot at World honours as he looks to upset the Bulgarian hero in front of his home fans.

‘’Kevin Johnson is a good boxer who will give everything, but he will not succeed,’’ said Pulev. ‘’My goal is to become World Champion. I know a loss will set me back a long way, but I’m confident in my abilities. My opponent is an experienced fighter, who will be difficult to break down, but we’ve prepared for that. On Friday, I want to put on another great show for the Bulgarian people, and then I want my shot at the World title.’’

‘’If Pulev thinks he’s in for an easy night, he’s got another thing coming,’’ said Johnson. ‘’I’m no Samuel Peter. I’m not here to lie down and collect a cheuque, I’m here to cause an upset. I’m going to take this boy to school and show the Bulgarians what a Jersey boy can do. I’m going to give him an ass whopping on Friday, the likes of which nobody has seen before. We’ve both been through the same obstacles and we’ve both fought for World titles before, but only one of us is going to get that second shot, and that’s going to me.’’

Having taken in the sights of Sofia, Johnson also revealed he plans to leave Bulgaria with two souvenirs. ‘’The women here are very beautiful,’’ he said. ‘’And I’m looking to get married. On Saturday, I’m going to be leaving with a new belt and a new wife!’’

Said promoter Nisse Sauerland: ‘’It’s a great weekend for heavyweight boxing. Kubrat is mandatory challenger to face the winner of Anthony Joshua and Wladimir Klitschko for the IBF World title. Either they fight him or they vacate the belt. He’s fought hard to get back into this position, and he’s risking it all in this fight against a rejuvenated Kevin Johnson. Kevin also knows what’s at stake and what a win would mean for his career. Both men have been training hard, and are ready to give it their all in the ring on Friday night.’’

Tickets for the WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight title fight between Kubrat Pulev and Kevin Johnson on Friday night in Sofia are available online via www.eventim.bg.




FITE TV to stream Kubrat Pulev vs. Kevin Johnson Heavyweight clash Live on PPV, April 28, from Bulgaria

NEW YORK, NY(April 18, 2017) – FITE TV will stream the April 28th heavyweight clash between a pair of past world title contenders, Kubrat “The Cobra” Pulev and Kevin “Kingpin” Johnson, live on pay per view, starting at 2 p.m. ET /11 a.m. PT, from Arena Armeec in Sofia, Bulgaria. Encore presentations will also be available to watch.

FITE TV is a Combat Sports Network that features boxing, MMA and wrestling programming. FITE gives viewers the choice to watch the program on line at www.FITE.tv, on their mobile device or on their WiFi connected television using the FITE app. The FITE app can be downloaded for free at Google Play or the iTunes app stores.

“Final Countdown: Pulev vs. Johnson”, promoted by Sauerland Promotions, is available to watch on the FITE app and website for a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Boxing fans may watch the entire card, headlined by the Pulev-Johnson 12-round World Boxing Association (WBA) heavyweight title fight, simply by downloading the FITE app and then cast the fight to the big screen by using the instant stream-to-TV function. The FITE app works with any Wi-Fi connected television around the world, iOS and Android devices, as well as streaming devices such as Roku, Chromecast and more. Fans may also watch the fights live on the FITE website at www.fite.tv from any computer.

“Pulev versus Johnson is another fine boxing event that FITE is now making available to our North American fan base,” FITE COO Michael Weber said. “FITE continues to grow by leaps and bounds and we are very proud of the growth of world class boxing events to complement our current line-up of MMA and wrestling events.”

The 6′ 4 ½ Pulev, fighting at home in Sofia, Bulgaria, captured the vacant WBA Inter-Continental heavyweight title in his last fight this past December, in which former world champion Samuel Peters (36-5) retired after the third round.

Last May, Pulev won a 12-round split decision over Dereck Chisora (25-5) to capture the European heavyweight championship. The 35-year-old Pulev has won four in a row since he suffered the only loss of his professional career, by way of a fifth-round knockout in 2014, to then-International Boxing Federation (IBF) heavyweight world champion Wladimir Klitschko (62-3).

Pulev was a celebrated amateur boxer who represented Bulgaria at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China. Currently rated No. 9 in the world by the WBA, Pulev can position himself for another world title shot with an impressive victory over Johnson, the battle-tested veteran fighting out of Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA.

“My number one goal is to fight for the World title and on April 28,” Pulev commented, “I will take another step towards achieving this goal. I’m already training hard to prove I am worthy to fight again for the heavyweight crown.

“Johnson is a tough opponent. You must only look at his resume to tell this will be a real challenge. He has shared the ring with many World class fighters like Vitali Klitschko and Anthony Joshua. I know I will need to be at my best to beat him, but with the help of my coach Ulli Wegner and the support of the Bulgarian people, I’m confident my hand will be raised, and we will be able to celebrate another great night for Bulgarian boxing and another step towards me fulfilling my dream of becoming the Heavyweight Champion of the World.’

Johnson, 37, has served as a dangerous “gatekeeper” in the heavyweight division during his 14-year professional career. He’s fought reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua – the only fighter to stop Johnson – former unified world heavyweight titlist Tyson Fury, former world title challenger Manuel Charr and current European champion Christian Hammer.

Johnson’s most notable wins have been against world title challengers Bruce Seldon (TKO5), Alex Leapai (TKO9) and Albert Sosnowski (SDEC3 in Prizefighter Tournament).

In 2009, Johnson lost his lone world title fight by unanimous decision to undefeated WBC champion Vitali Klitschko, extending him the full 12-rounds.

Additional PPV fights are scheduled on FITE TV on a weekly basis.

– pictures courtesy of Sauerland Promotions –

INFORMATION:
www.fite.tv
Twitter: @FiteTV, #PulevJohnsonPPV
ABOUT FITE TV: FITE TV (www.fite.tv) is a programming network that brings live and on-demand ring sports programs to MMA, wrestling and boxing fans around the world. With only access to a smartphone and a connected TV, with the FITE app, viewers can watch live events, on-demand programming, interviews and fighting sports related movies and documentaries on the big TV screen.

During the last few months, FITE has tripled the viewing time by user and has become a shared-space for die-hard fight fans to stay connected to their favorite sport every day. As a full-fledged TV programming network, FITE televises live pay-per-views and TV tapings on a weekly schedule.

FITE was launched on February 9th, 2016 as a product of Flipps Media Inc, a company that brings digital entertainment content (movies, news and video) on television with its patented tap-to-stream functionality. Flipps Media Inc. is funded by EarlyBird Venture Capital, Tim Draper and LAUNCHub.

ABOUT MP & Silva: MP & Silva owns, manages and distributes television and media rights to some of the most prestigious sports events around the world, with a portfolio that provides over 10,000 hours of programming annually to over 200 broadcasters in 215 countries. MP & Silva also provides complimentary sponsorship, digital and technology services. Headquartered in London and Singapore, it operates worldwide through regional offices in Beijing, Budapest, Dubai, Dublin, Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, Luxembourg, Miami, Monaco, Munich, New York, Paris, Taipei, Tokyo and Warsaw. In May 2016, MP & Silva created a strategic partnership with Everbright, a leading financial services company in China and Baofeng, an internet entertainment and technology company, specializing in Virtual Reality and digital entertainment, through an investment from Shanghai Jin Xin investment fund (“Shanghai Jin Xin”). For more information visit http://mpsilva.com/




Pulev defends WBA title against the ‘Kingpin’ on April 28 in Sofia

Kubrat Pulev (24-1, 13 KOs) will defend his WBA Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship against former World title challenger Kevin ‘Kingpin’ Johnson (30-7-1, 14 KOs) on Friday, April 28 at the Arena Armeec in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Pulev made a triumphant homecoming on December 3, 2016, fighting for the first time in his home country, and forcing former WBC World Champion Samuel Peter to retire after three rounds in front of a capacity crowd of 15,000 Bulgarian fans.

‘’It was an overwhelming experience for me to receive so much support from the crowd. I could feel the energy surging around the arena, and that gave me the power to win by stoppage,’’ said ‘The Cobra’, who is now looking forward to a second fight on home soil as he aims to secure a second shot at World honours.

‘’My number one goal is to fight for the World title, and on April 28, I will take another step towards achieving this goal. I’m already training hard to prove I am worthy to fight again for the heavyweight crown.

‘’Johnson is a tough opponent. You must only look at his resume to tell this will be a real challenge. He has shared the ring with many World-class fighters like Vitali Klitschko and Anthony Joshua.

‘’I know I will need to be at my best to beat him, but with the help of my coach Ulli Wegner and the support of the Bulgarian people, I’m confident my hand will be raised, and we will be able to celebrate another great night for Bulgarian boxing and another step towards me fulfilling my dream of becoming the Heavyweight Champion of the World.’’

‘’We’re delighted to be returning to the Arena Armeec for what promises to be another great night of boxing on April 28,’’ said promoter Kalle Sauerland. ‘’We have promoted shows all over the World, and I must say, the atmosphere in Sofia was second to none. The support that Kubrat receives from the Bulgarian people is special, and this will help him to reach the top.

‘’He faces a tough test against Kevin Johnson, who having fought many of the biggest names in the heavyweight division, has only been stopped once. Kubrat must prove himself once again, and show that he is ready for a World title challenge.’’

Further details including ticketing information will be announced shortly.




Crolla stops Barroso in 7; retains Lightweight title

DANGER ZONE PROMOTION WEIGH IN,RADDISON HOTEL,MANCHESTER  PIC;LAWRENCE LUSTIG WBA WORLD LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE WBA CHAMPION ANTHONY CROLLA AND CHALLENGER ISMAEL BARROSO WEIGH IN
DANGER ZONE PROMOTION
WEIGH IN,RADDISON HOTEL,MANCHESTER
PIC;LAWRENCE LUSTIG
WBA WORLD LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE
WBA CHAMPION ANTHONY CROLLA AND CHALLENGER ISMAEL BARROSO WEIGH IN

Anthony Crolla scored a stunning 7th round stoppage over Ismael Barroso to retain his WBA Lightweight title at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England.

The bout headlined a seven bout telecast on AWE.

Barroso raced out and set a fast pace over the first four rounds.  Crolla was biding his time landing some good shots on the the middle of the ring and he started to take over on a fading Barroso towards the end of round five.  In round six, Crolla began to hurt Barroso and the Venezuelan challenger started to break down and seemed spent as he walked to his corner.  Crolla jumped on Barroso and landed a tremendous flurry of punches that put Barroso on the canvas for the ten count.

It was the second straight stunning knockout for Crolla on AWE–A Wealth of Entertainment as he won his title with a knockout over Darleys Perez in November.

Crolla is now 31-4-3 with 13 knockouts.  Barroso is 19-1-2.

“What a day for boxing on AWE.  Once again, AWE had a stellar show that was headlined by a great knockout by Anthony Crolla.  We continue to put on exciting world title bouts and we should have some announcements about more great boxing action the coming months,” said AWE President, Charles Herring.

In the televised co-feature from Hamburg, Germany, Kubrat Pulev won the European Heavyweight title and an IBF Elimination Heavyweight bout by winning a 12-round split decision over Dereck Chisora.

Pulev controlled the action with quick combinations and Chisora was never able to get in a groove to land any hard power shots.

Pulev won by scores of 118-110  and 116-112.  Somehow a judge saw the fight for Chisora by 115-113.

Pulev is 23-1.  Chisora is 25-6.

Shayne Singleton stopped Anwil Anwar in round eight of their ten round welterweight contest.

Singleton looked like he was going to make it a quick and easy night as he dropped Anwar in round one from a left hook.  Anwar was able to steady himself and have success over the next handful of rounds by getting in some good right hands.  With the fight being on an even level, Singleton landed a big left that sent Anwar down in round eight.  Anwar was clearly hurt, and Singleton jumped all over him and the fight was quickly stopped at 1:37 of round right.

Singleton is now 23-1 with eight knockouts.  Anwar is 22-6.

Martin Murray tuned up for a June 25 showdown with George Groves by stopping an overmatched Cedric Spera in a scheduled 8-round Super Middleweight bout.

Murray dropped Spera with a left to the body in round two and finished him off with hard right that sent Spera down and out at 1:47 of round two.

Murray is now 33-3-1 with 16 knockouts.  Spera is 12-5.

Marcus Morrison scored a 2nd round stoppage over Jefferson De Souza in a scheduled 10-round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Morrison dropped De Souza with a left hook in round one and the bout was stopped in the 2nd.

Morrison is now 11-0.  De Souza is now 16-2-2.

Hosea Burton scored a 4th round stoppage over Michal Ludwiczak in a scheduled 6-round light heavyweight bout.

Burton dropped Ludwiczak with a left hook in round three.  Burton scored another knockdown from a left hook in round four and the fight was stopped shortly after at 2:58.

Burton is now 16-0.  Ludwiczak is 13-4.

Tommy Coyle (22-3) won a decision over Reynaldo Mora (7-13-1) in a super lightweight bout via referee score of 59-55.

 




Crolla stops Barroso to retain Lightweight title in Headliner on AWE–A Wealth of Entertainment

Crolla Barroso3
SAN DIEGO, CALIF.- May 7, 2016 – Anthony Crolla scored a stunning 7th round stoppage over Ismael Barroso to retain his WBA Lightweight title at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, England.

The bout headlined a seven bout telecast on AWE.

Barroso raced out and set a fast pace over the first four rounds. Crolla was biding his time landing some good shots on the the middle of the ring and he started to take over on a fading Barroso towards the end of round five. In round six, Crolla began to hurt Barroso and the Venezuelan challenger started to break down and seemed spent as he walked to his corner. Crolla jumped on Barroso and landed a tremendous flurry of punches that put Barroso on the canvas for the ten count.

It was the second straight stunning knockout for Crolla on AWE–A Wealth of Entertainment as he won his title with a knockout over Darleys Perez in November.

Crolla is now 31-4-3 with 13 knockouts. Barroso is 19-1-2.

“What a day for boxing on AWE. Once again, AWE had a stellar show that was headlined by a great knockout by Anthony Crolla. We continue to put on exciting world title bouts and we should have some announcements about more great boxing action the coming months,” said AWE President, Charles Herring.

In the televised co-feature from Hamburg, Germany, Kubrat Pulev won the European Heavyweight title and an IBF Elimination Heavyweight bout by winning a 12-round split decision over Dereck Chisora.

Pulev controlled the action with quick combinations and Chisora was never able to get in a groove to land any hard power shots.

Pulev won by scores of 118-110 and 116-112. Somehow a judge saw the fight for Chisora by 115-113.

Pulev is 23-1. Chisora is 25-6.

Shayne Singleton stopped Anwil Anwar in round eight of their ten round welterweight contest.

Singleton looked like he was going to make it a quick and easy night as he dropped Anwar in round one from a left hook. Anwar was able to steady himself and have success over the next handful of rounds by getting in some good right hands. With the fight being on an even level, Singleton landed a big left that sent Anwar down in round eight. Anwar was clearly hurt, and Singleton jumped all over him and the fight was quickly stopped at 1:37 of round right.

Singleton is now 23-1 with eight knockouts. Anwar is 22-6.

Martin Murray tuned up for a June 25 showdown with George Groves by stopping an overmatched Cedric Spera in a scheduled 8-round Super Middleweight bout.

Murray dropped Spera with a left to the body in round two and finished him off with hard right that sent Spera down and out at 1:47 of round two.

Murray is now 33-3-1 with 16 knockouts. Spera is 12-5.

Marcus Morrison scored a 2nd round stoppage over Jefferson De Souza in a scheduled 10-round Jr. Middleweight bout.

Morrison dropped De Souza with a left hook in round one and the bout was stopped in the 2nd.

Morrison is now 11-0. De Souza is now 16-2-2.

Hosea Burton scored a 4th round stoppage over Michal Ludwiczak in a scheduled 6-round light heavyweight bout.

Burton dropped Ludwiczak with a left hook in round three. Burton scored another knockdown from a left hook in round four and the fight was stopped shortly after at 2:58.

Burton is now 16-0. Ludwiczak is 13-4.

Tommy Coyle (22-3) won a decision over Reynaldo Mora (7-13-1) in a super lightweight bout via referee score of 59-55.

About AWE LIVE BOXING

AWE LIVE Boxing features live world title championship and elimination bouts showcasing today’s most exciting fighters. Since the inception of AWE’s live boxing events in 2011, and has featured over 50 world class title fight. AWE has earned multiple Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for “Fight of the Year” and has featured over thirty world class boxing events. In 2013, AWE showcased all live bouts featuring heavyweight David Price. AWE aired live the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, along with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew cards, who fought each other for the light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale. AWE brought boxing fans two of the most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran. AWE fans have witnessed the explosive power of undefeated heavyweight Tyson Fury multiple times on the network, including Fury’s victory over Kevin Johnson. In 2014, AWE televised the crowning of lightweight champion Terence Crawford with his win over Burns as well as the exciting rematches between Carl Frampton and Kiko Martinez along with Tony Bellew defeating Nathan Cleverly. In 2015, AWE brought boxing fans on of the most anticipated rematches of the year, Darleys Perez v. Anthony Crolla II for the WBA Lightweight World Title.

In 2016, AWE was the exclusive American boradcaster of Lucas Browne’s stunning knockout over Ruslan Chagaev to win the WBA Heavyweight title.

About AWE – A Wealth of Entertainment
A Wealth of Entertainment (“AWE”) features a wide range of lifestyles and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 147 and 1147 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 169 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.




FOLLOW CROLLA – BARROSO LIVE

DANGER ZONE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE RADDISSON HOTEL,MANCHESTER PIC;LAWRENCE LUSTIG WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE CHAMPION ANTHONY CROLLA AND CHALLENGER ISMAEL BARROSO COME FACE TO FACE IN BEFORE THEY MEET AT THE MANCHESTER ARENA ON SATURDAY(MAY7)
DANGER ZONE FINAL PRESS CONFERENCE
RADDISSON HOTEL,MANCHESTER
PIC;LAWRENCE LUSTIG
WBA LIGHTWEIGHT TITLE
CHAMPION ANTHONY CROLLA AND CHALLENGER ISMAEL BARROSO COME FACE TO FACE IN BEFORE THEY MEET AT THE MANCHESTER ARENA ON SATURDAY(MAY7)

Follow all the action as Anthony Crolla defends the WBA Lightweight title against undefeated Ismael Barroso.  The action kicks off at 2:30 PM ET with an appearance by former world title challenger Martin Murray.  Also a big Heavyweight elimination bout between former world title challengers Dereck Chisora and Kubrat Pulev

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12 Rounds WBA Lightweight ttle–Anthony Crolla (30-4-3, 12 KO’s) vs Ismael Barroso (19-0-2, 18 KO’s)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Crolla 9 9 10 10 10 10  KO 58
Barroso  10  10  9  9  10  9  57

Round 1 Crolla gets in a right..Barroso gets in 2 lefts..sharp combination..

Round 2 Body shot from Barroso…uppercut..Left to the body..

Round 3 Barroso gets in a right hook..Crolla gets in a right..

Round 4 Right from Crolla..body shot..Combination from Barroso..Right from Crolla…uppercut…Barroso throwing alot…Crolla cut over his right eye

Round 5 Body shot from Barroso…left to the body…uppercut and body shot from Crolla..

Round 6 Hard right staggers Barroso…another right…Crolla has Barroso in trouble

Round 7 HARD FLURRY AND DOWN GOES BARROSO…HE DOES NOT BEAT THE COUNT

 

12-rounds Heavyweights–Dereck Chisora (25-5, 17 KO’s) vs Kubrat Pulev (22-1, 12 KO’s)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Chisora 9  9  10 9  9 9 9  9  10 10  9  9 111
Pulev  10  10  9  10 10 10  10  10 9 9  10  10 117


Round 1 Right from Pulev

Round 2 1-2 from Pulev..

Round 3 Chisora gets in a round…working the body..uppercut from Pulev

Round 4 Right over top by Chisora…Good combination from Pulev..Jabs and rights on the ropes..

Round 5 Uppercut from Pulev..Jab..2 hard rights

Round 6 Hard right from Pulev..Good right from Chisora..Pulev is cut over his left eye…Right from Pulev…another right..

Round 7 Chisora lands a right to the body..Right from Pulev…Right

Round 8 Right from Pulev..3 hard rights on the ropes..

Round 9 Chisora lands a left..right…Right..Body shot and right from Pulev

Round 10 Body shots from Chisora

Round 11 Hard right and body shot from Pulev…Chisora right eye beginning to swell

Round 12 Right from Pulev..Jab..

116-112 Pulev; 115-113 Chisora; 118-110 Pulev…PULEV VIA SPLIT DECISION

10-rounds–Super Middleweights–Martin Murray (32-3-1, 15 KO’s) vs Cedric Spera (12-4, 2 KO’s)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Murray  10  10
Spera  9  9

Round 1 Murray working the body

Round 2 MURRAY LANDS A LEFT TO THE BODY AND DOWN GOES SPERA…RIGHT HAND AND DOWN GOES SPERA AND THE FIGHT IS OVER–TIME 1:47

 

10-rounds-Welterweights–Shayne Singleton (22-1, 7 KO’s) vs Adil Anwar (22-5, 8 KO’s)
ROUND 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 TOTAL
Singleton  10  9 10 9 9  10 9 TKO 66
Anwar 8  10  9  10  10  9  10  66

Round 1 Singleton lands a sharp right..Right..DOUBLE LEFT HOOK AND DOWN GOES ANWAR

Round 2 Anwar lands a hard right…2 punch combination

Round 3 Singleton lands a solid right..Left shakes Anwar

Round 4 Right from Anwar

Round 5 Combination from Anwar

Round 6 Good right from Singleton..Right…left hook..

Round 7 Anwar lands a left…Jab from Singleton..Left hook..Right from Anwar

Round 8 BIG RIGHT AND DOWN GOES ANWAR…SINGLETON ALL OVER ANWAR AND THE FIGHT IS STOPPED




Former world title challenger Martin Murray plus WBC International Silver Welterweight title clash added to Crolla – Barroso Lightweight world title ; Pulev – Chisora twin-bill this Saturday on AWE-A Wealth of Entertainment

Martin Murray
SAN DIEGO, CALIF.- May 6, 2016 – This Saturday afternoon it will be a full day of championship boxing as two more big fights have been added to an already stacked broadcast on AWE- A Wealth of Entertainment.

Already announced is the WBA Lightweight world championship between champion Anthony Crolla (30-4-3, 12 KO’s) and Ismael Barroso (19-0-2, 18 KO’s) from Manchester, England

Also on the telecast will be an IBF Heavyweight elimination bout between former world title challengers Dereck Chisora (25-5, 17 KO’s) and Kubrat Pulev (22-1, 12 KO’s) from Hamburg, Germany.

Former WBA Interim Middleweight champion and three-time world title challenger Martin Murray will see action in a super middleweight clash against Cedric Spera.

Opening up the broadcast will be a battle for the WBC International Silver Welterweight title between Shayne Singleton and Adil Anwar.

The broadcast will begin at 2:30 PM ET / 11:30 AM PT.

Murray of St. Helens, United Kingdom has a record of 32-3-1 with 15 knockouts and is looking to get back to the world title stage and a win over Spera will catapult him to a June 25th showdown with George Groves.

Murray won the WBA Interim Middleweight championship with a 6th round stoppage over Jorge Navarro in 2012. When he has stepped up, he has come up just short in world title opportunities against Sergio Martinez, Gennady Golovkin and Arthur Abraham.

Spera of Belgium has a record of 12-4 with two knockouts, but has a win on his ledger over former contender Stephane Ouellet.

Singleton is an upstart contender from Colne, England and has a record of 22-1 with seven knockouts.

He is a former English Super Lightweight champion & WBC International Silver Welterweight titlist, and his record his highlighted by wins over Curtis Woodhouse (17-4) and Steve Jevons (8-0)

Anwar of Leeds, England is a former English Welterweight champion has a record of 22-5 with eight knockouts.

He has quality wins over Ben Lawler (5-1), Nathan Graham (11-1), James Finn (10-0-1), John Watson (13-2), Tyrone Nurse (20-0) & Dale Miles (13-1).

About AWE LIVE BOXING

AWE LIVE Boxing features live world title championship and elimination bouts showcasing today’s most exciting fighters. Since the inception of AWE’s live boxing events in 2011, and has featured over 50 world class title fight. AWE has earned multiple Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for “Fight of the Year” and has featured over thirty world class boxing events. In 2013, AWE showcased all live bouts featuring heavyweight David Price. AWE aired live the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, along with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew cards, who fought each other for the light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale. AWE brought boxing fans two of the most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran. AWE fans have witnessed the explosive power of undefeated heavyweight Tyson Fury multiple times on the network, including Fury’s victory over Kevin Johnson. In 2014, AWE televised the crowning of lightweight champion Terence Crawford with his win over Burns as well as the exciting rematches between Carl Frampton and Kiko Martinez along with Tony Bellew defeating Nathan Cleverly. In 2015, AWE brought boxing fans on of the most anticipated rematches of the year, Darleys Perez v. Anthony Crolla II for the WBA Lightweight World Title.

In 2016, AWE was the exclusive American boradcaster of Lucas Browne’s stunning knockout over Ruslan Chagaev to win the WBA Heavyweight title.

About AWE – A Wealth of Entertainment
A Wealth of Entertainment (“AWE”) features a wide range of lifestyles and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 147 and 1147 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 169 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.




Kubrat Pulev – Dereck Chisora European title clash added to Crolla – Barroso Lightweight title telecast this Saturday on AWE–A Wealth of Entertainment

AWE Live Boxing
SAN DIEGO, CALIF.- May 2, 2016 – This Saturday afternoon an intriguing and important heavyweight contest between former world title challenger’s Kubrat Pulev and Dereck Chisora has been added to the much anticipated telecast that will feature WBA Lightweight champion Anthony Crolla defending his title against hard punching Ismael Barroso that will be shown LIVE ON AWE–A Wealth of Entertainment.

The Pulev – Chisora European Heavyweight title clash will originate from Hamburg, Germany and will precede the Crolla – Barroso bout from Manchester, England.

The broadcast will begin at 2:30 PM ET / 11:30 AM PT.

“We are ecstatic to add this important heavyweight fight to our world title broadcast. The winner of this fight will be at the head of the line to get their second world title opportunity and these are big heavyweights, so we expect an explosive fight,” said AWE President, Charles Herring.

Pulev, who represented Bulgaria in the 2008 Olympics has had an excellent professional career, which stands at 22-1 with twelve knockouts.

The 34-year old has faced quality competition from the onset of his career. He has quality wins over Gbenga Oluokun (17-2); former world title challenger Matt Skelton (22-4); Dominick Guinn (33-6-1); Derric Rossy (25-3); Maksym Pedyura (13-1-1); Travis Walker (38-6-1); Alexander DiMitrenko (32-1); Alexander Ustinov (27-0); Former two-time world title challenger Tony Thompson (38-3).

On November 15, 2014 he challenged unified champion Wladimir Klitschko for the Heavyweight title. Pulev came up short, but a win on Saturday will facilitate a second opportunity at history.

Pulev has won his last two bouts with wins over George Arias (56-13) and his last bout when he stopped Maurice Harris in one round on December 5th

Now he must get past the tough as nails Chisora.

The London, England native has a record of 25-5 with 17 knockouts and he has built his reputation by facing and defeating a high level of opposition.

The 32 year-old won his first fourteen bouts In that streak, he netted the British Heavyweight title with a 2nd round stoppage over former world title challenger Danny Williams. He defend the title with a ninth round stoppage over Sam Sexton (13-1), before losing the belt to eventual unified champion Tyson Fury.

Chisora put on a great performance before dropping a disputed decision to then undefeated top heavyweight contender Robert Helenius. That fight got him a shot at WBC Heavyweight champion Vitaly Klitschko.

Chisora fought a gutsy fight before dropping a unanimous decision to Klitschko. After losing to former two-division world champion David Haye, Chisora had an impressive five-fight winning streak that featured victories over undefeated Malik Scott (35-0-1); Edmund Gerber (23-1); Ondrej (32-3) and former world title challenger Kevin Johnson (29-4).

After losing a second time to Fury, Chisora has won five in a row, which includes a 2nd round stoppage over Andras Csmor on January 9th.

About AWE LIVE BOXING

AWE LIVE Boxing features live world title championship and elimination bouts showcasing today’s most exciting fighters. Since the inception of AWE’s live boxing events in 2011, and has featured over 50 world class title fight. AWE has earned multiple Boxing Writers Association of America nominations for “Fight of the Year” and has featured over thirty world class boxing events. In 2013, AWE showcased all live bouts featuring heavyweight David Price. AWE aired live the stunning upsets of Tony Thompson over David Price, along with Adonis Stevenson and Tony Bellew cards, who fought each other for the light Heavyweight championship; 2008 Olympic Gold Medal winner James DeGale. AWE brought boxing fans two of the most controversial bouts which saw Ricky Burns keep his Lightweight title against Ray Beltran. AWE fans have witnessed the explosive power of undefeated heavyweight Tyson Fury multiple times on the network, including Fury’s victory over Kevin Johnson. In 2014, AWE televised the crowning of lightweight champion Terence Crawford with his win over Burns as well as the exciting rematches between Carl Frampton and Kiko Martinez along with Tony Bellew defeating Nathan Cleverly. In 2015, AWE brought boxing fans on of the most anticipated rematches of the year, Darleys Perez v. Anthony Crolla II for the WBA Lightweight World Title.

In 2016, AWE was the exclusive American boradcaster of Lucas Browne’s stunning knockout over Ruslan Chagaev to win the WBA Heavyweight title.

About AWE – A Wealth of Entertainment
A Wealth of Entertainment (“AWE”) features a wide range of lifestyles and entertainment programming from exotic travel and outrageous homes to live world championship boxing. AWE is featured on over a hundred cable providers, including AT&T U-Verse, ch 147 and 1147 in HD and Verizon FiOS TV, ch 169 and 669 in HD. For more information, please visit www.awetv.com.




Pulev to meet Chisora in title elimination clash

In a battle of former world title challengers, Kubrat Pulev will meet Dereck Chisora in a Heavyweight title elimination bout in Hamburg, Germany on May 7th, according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“We’re delighted to deliver fans this mouthwatering contest between two of the biggest names in the heavyweight division,” promoter Kalle Sauerland said. “Not only is the prestigious European belt on the line, but also a chance to challenge for the IBF world title. It’s all or nothing. Winner takes it all. This is a fight that guarantees excitement.”

“This is a very important fight for me,” Pulev said. “I learned a lot from the Klitschko fight, but now I’m back and stronger than ever. Dereck is a good boxer, but I’m better, and I know I can beat him. I’m looking forward to the challenge and the chance to win back the European title. I’m sure the arena in Hamburg will be full of Bulgarians cheering me to victory.

“I know I have what it takes to be world champion, and next time I will be successful. But for now, all my focus is on May 7 and Chisora. This is a fight I can’t afford to lose.”

“Pulev has been on my radar for a while now,” Chisora said. “He’s a great athlete and he has my respect, but come fight night, I’m not messing around. I’m coming to mess this guy up. I’m going to outwork him and out-strength him. I’ll be all over him from the first bell.

“I’m excited for the opportunity. This is a chance for me to prove myself against one of the top fighters in the division and get back into a position to challenge for the world title. I’m in great shape. I’m training harder than ever and I’m ready to go. This is going to be one my best fights ever.”




Pulev returns on October 17 against Arias

Kubrat Pulev (20-1, 11 KOs) returns with a renewed vigour on October 17 as the Bulgarian heavyweight star looks to get his World title ambitions back on track with a victory over George Arias (56-13, 42 KOs) at the dm-Arena in Karlsruhe, Germany.

Pulev has been out of the ring since November 2014, where despite a brave performance, the 34 year-old failed to dethrone Heavyweight Champion Wladimir Klitschko.

Following a period of transition, which has seen the ‘Cobra’ team up with legendary German coach Ulli Wegner, the former European Champion has made some important changes and believes he is now ready to work his way back into World title contention.

‘’The fight against Klitschko was a valuable lesson for me,’’ said Pulev. ‘’At that time I wasn’t doing enough, I was too complacent, but now I know what it takes to become World Champion and I won’t be making that mistake again. This is the start of a new beginning for me.’’

Wegner, the veteran trainer, also knows what it takes to compete at the very highest level having guided the careers of Sven Ottke, Markus Beyer and Arthur Abraham, and now, the 73 year-old has set about transforming Pulev into his next champion.

‘’Kubrat possesses a lot of talent but at times he has let his ego get in the way,’’ said Wegner. ‘’I will not allow this to happen again. I’ve made it clear to him who is the boss. We’ve been working on his defence and he has already shown great signs of improvement. I have no doubt that Kubrat has the ability to compete with the very best.’’

Said promoter Kalle Sauerland: ‘’Kubrat is still one of the best heavyweights in the world. Against Klitschko he showed great heart and took the fight to the champion. He may have lost but his time will come again, and with Ulli Wegner in his corner, we have every faith that he will one day be crowned Heavyweight Champion of the World!’’

Tickets for the Team Sauerland show on October 17 at the dm-Arena in Karlsruhe, Germany are available online via tickethall.de and eventim.de.




Pulev extends promotional agreement with Team Sauerland

Team Sauerland is pleased to announced that Bulgarian heavyweight star Kubrat Pulev has extended his promotional agreement.

‘’Kubrat remains one of the best heavyweights in world and we’re delighted that he has decided to extend his contract,’’ said promoter Kalle Sauerland, who guided the 33 year-old to a world title challenge in November last year.

‘’The fight against Klitschko may have come a little too early after only twenty professional bouts, but will prove to be a huge learning experience for him. I’m confident he will return better and stronger than ever. It’s only a matter of time before he gets a second shot at the world title and this time he will take it!’’

‘’I’m very happy to extend my agreement with Team Sauerland,’’ said Pulev. ‘’With their support I will be able to get back to my best. Together we will conquer the world!’’

As he prepares for a return to world title contention, Pulev will now train with renowned German coach Ulli Wegner. ‘’I’m looking forward to working with Mr Wegner,’’ said the Cobra. ‘’He is one of the best in the business and his experience will be priceless in my quest to become world champion.’’




Video: Boxing’s Best: Marquez vs. Alvarado / Klitschko vs. Pulev




Klitschko drops Pulev 4-times and destroys Pulev in five

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Wladimir Klitschko made his 17th consecutive title defense of the world Heavyweight title as he dropped mandatory contender Kubrat Pulev four-times en route to a fifth round stoppage at the O2 Arena in Hamburg, Germany.

Klitschko scored 2 knockdowns in round one, both from booming left hooks. He continued to land power shots and in round three, he landed yet another left hook that sent Pulev to the canvas. Pulev tried and landed several hard right hands for which Klitschko’s always shaky chin withstood. Ironically it was after Pulev’s best right hand that Klitschko fired back with another devastating left hook that sent Pulev down to the canvas for a fourth and final time as referee Tony Weeks waved off the bout at 2:11 of round five.

Klitschko, 245 3/4 lbs of Germany is now 63-3 with 53 knockouts. Pulev, 246 3/4 lbs of Bulgaria is now 20-1.




Follow Klitschko – Pulev Live

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Follow all the action live from Heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko defends his titles against undefeated Kubrat Pulev. The action begins at 4:45 ET / 1:45 PT

12 ROUNDS–WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP–WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO (62-3, 52 KOS’S) VS KUBRAT PULEV (20-0, 11 KO’S)

Round 1 HUGE LEFT AND DOWN GOES PULEV…ANOTHER HUGE EFT AND DOWN GOES PULEV..Klitschko lands a right…10-7 Klitschko

Round 2 Pulev lands a jab…right lands for Klitschko..hard left hook..20-16 Klitschko

Round 3 Pulev lands a body shot..Hard right wobbles Pulev..LEFT HOOK AND DOWN GOES PULEV..30-24 Klitschko

Round 4 Pulev lands a left and right…left hook from Klitschko…Left hook40-34 Klitschko

Round 5 Hard right from Klitschko..Hard rght from Kulev..HUGE LEFT FROM KLITSCHKO AND DOWN GOES PULEV AND THE FIGHT IS OVER

Round 5




Ruslan Chagaev to return to action early next year

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Regular WBA heavyweight champion Ruslan Chagaev has started training camp for the first defense of his second title reign which is supposed to take place in early 2015 in Hamburg. After his mandatory challenger Luis Ortiz disqualified himself with a positive doping test team Chagaev is currently looking for an opponent. “Ruslan is ready to go but now that Ortiz is out we will have to see who is available”, says promoter Timur Dugazaev. “And of course, we need to coordinate the exact date and challenger with the WBA. We will announce the fight once the contracts are signed.”

This week Chagaev and his team will take a close look at the action that will take place in their adapted home town Hamburg. The regular WBA champion will be ringside when “Super Champion” Wladimir Klitschko defends his titles against Kubrat Pulev. “I still want my rematch with Wladimir and I know that I will get it”, says Chagaev. “I didn’t have any time to prepare for our first fight in summer 2009 because they brought me in as last minute replacement. I didn’t want to pass on the chance but I am not happy with the circumstances. I know that it will be a different fight when I have the chance to get ready. To take on Wladimir I have to be in the best possible physical shape and I also need the right mindset.”

After winning the WBA championship for the second time the 36-year-old Uzbek started training with champion coach Fritz Sdunek. They have known each other for a long time as they were both signed to promotional powerhouse Universum Box-Promotion but they never really worked with each other until Chagaev beat Fres Oquendo this summer in Grozny. Sdunek was at the show as head coach of former world champion Juan Carlos Gomez and helped his former assistant Artur Grigorian as cutman in Chagaev’s corner. When Chagaev suffered a cut early in the fight Sdunek took charge and led him to the victory and to regaining “his” world title.

After that Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrow who had helped putting the fight against Oquendo together in Grozny as Chagaev’s friend and supporter urged promoter Timur Dugazaev to sign Sdunek as new head coach. “Fritz is definitely the best trainer in Germany”, states Dugazaev. “He is doing a tremendous job with Ruslan.”

Says Chagaev, “I think with Fritz Sdunek as head coach, Artur Grigorian as his assistant, Timur Dugazaev as promoter and, of course, Ramzan Kadyrow as supporter in my corner I cannot go wrong and I am ready to take on every possible challenge.” Asked about his relationship with the Chechen President, the WBA champion adds: “He is like a brother to me and I have the utmost respect for his gigantic work ethic and discipline. He is working really hard for his people and I am very grateful for all his help. He is surely a great man.”




Wladimir Klitschko vs. Kubrat Pulev airs Saturday, Nov. 15 on HBO

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HBO BOXING AFTER DARK begins early with a special presentation of a heavyweight title showdown when WLADIMIR KLITSCHKO VS. KUBRAT PULEV is seen SATURDAY, NOV. 15 at 4:45 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT), exclusively on HBO, with an encore presentation later that day at midnight (ET/PT). The HBO Sports team will capture all the action, which will be available in HDTV, closed-captioned for the hearing-impaired and presented in Spanish on HBO Latino.

Other HBO playdates: Nov. 16 (9:00 a.m.) and 17 (12:30 a.m.)

HBO2 playdates: Nov. 16 (4:45 p.m.) and 18 (11:00 p.m.)

Reigning world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko (62-3, 53 KOs), originally from Ukraine and now fighting primarily in Germany, puts his championship belts on the line against Kubrat Pulev (20-0, 11 KOs), from Sofia, Bulgaria, in a scheduled 12-round title bout from the O2 World Arena in Hamburg, Germany. In his 19th appearance on HBO, the 38-year-old Klitschko will be seeking his 17th consecutive successful heavyweight title defense, which would rank as the third-most behind legendary heavyweight champs Joe Louis, who had 25, and Larry Holmes, with 20.

Pulev, 33, is undefeated as a pro following an amateur career in which he won several European tournaments and gold medals. In Aug. 2013, he defeated American Tony Thompson in a title elimination contest, paving the way to this showdown.

“Fight fans recognize the history, mystique and legacy of the heavyweight championship, and we are delighted to present the world’s premier heavyweight, Wladimir Klitsckho, live on HBO,” says Peter Nelson, vice president, HBO Sports Programming. “Wladimir represents all the great qualities that one embraces in sport. We are looking forward to televising his 17th world title defense live.”

Also that day, HBO Latino presents an exclusive doubleheader from San Antonio at 9:45 p.m. (live ET/tape-delayed PT), when Gilberto Ramirez (29-0, 23 KOs) takes on Fulgencio Zuniga (27-9-1, 24 KOs) in a super middleweight bout and Oscar Valdez (13-0, 11 KOs) goes up against Alberto Garza (26-8-1, 21 KOs) in a middleweight contest.

Follow HBO Boxing news at hbo.com/boxing, on Facebook at facebook.com/hboboxing and on Twitter at twitter.com/hboboxing.

All HBO boxing events are presented in HDTV. HBO viewers must have access to the HBO HDTV channel to watch HBO programming in high definition.

® HBO BOXING AFTER DARK is a registered service mark of Home Box Office, Inc.