CARDIFF, WALES (May 9, 2024) – Big time boxing returns to Wales as BOXXER presents a huge night of action in Cardiff on Saturday, May 11th with Lauren Price MBE challenging Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles at the Utilita Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion.

The 29-year-old from Ystrad Mynach is yet to lose a round in the professional ranks but will face her toughest career test when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill.

McCaskill is a two-weight world champion, who unified the WBA and WBC World Super Lightweight Titles before moving up in weight to end Cecilia Brækhus’ decade long reign at the top of the welterweight division.

The two fighters exchanged words for the final time at today’s press conference ahead of their hotly anticipated world title clash on Saturday night.

Lauren Price MBE said:  “I’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of support I’ve received; it’s blown me out the park. I can’t thank the Welsh fans enough, there’s going to be some noise in there on Saturday night and I can’t wait to put on a show. I’m going to take my time on the ring walk, enjoy myself, soak it all in but when I get in that ring it’s game on and time for business.”

Jessica McCaskill said: “The Welsh fans aren’t supporting me, but they’ve welcomed me with open arms and just want to see a great fight on Saturday night like everybody else. I want to build fans everywhere I go. The excitement comes from stepping into my opponent’s back yard. I want to hear the crowd go wild and that will get me through the fight.”

BOXXER founder and CEO Ben Shalom:  “McCaskill is a pioneer of women’s boxing. This is her 11th world title fight. It’s a special moment for her as well. Why now for Lauren? She’s broken records since she started her sporting career, she’s done it in her boxing career. It’s her 7th fight. Yes, it’s early, and she’s taking on McCaskill who’s never lost in this weight division. This is a huge test for Lauren Price in Cardiff. To have this much support and an occasion like this was an opportunity we couldn’t turn down. Breaking records, forging legacy. That’s what this fight is all about. There are no full gone conclusions. It really could go either way.”

A stacked undercard features rising Welsh star Rhys Edwards versus former British champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward for the WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Title, unbeaten English Champion Mark Jeffers defending his Commonwealth Silver Super Middleweight Title against undefeated Scottish Champion Darren Johnstone, plus the return of former World Heavyweight Title challenger Hughie Fury against Germany’s Patrick Korte.

Southampton Light Heavyweight Lewis Edmondson is also set for action against Portsmouth’s Joel McIntyre in a British South Coast derby. 26-year-old Newport southpaw Kyran Jones takes on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell, Cardiff Super Featherweight Kane Shepherd faces Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis, and Swansea giant Moses Jolly continues his quest to become Wales’ first ever heavyweight world champion against Amine Boucetta.

Price’s WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Title fight against McCaskill will be free and available to all viewers in Wales following a rights deal between BOXXER, Sky Sports and BBC Wales.

All the action is available to watch live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland with prelims on the Sky Sports Boxing YouTube channel and the main card on Sky Sports Action and Sky Sports Main Event. US fight fans can watch live and on demand on Peacock.

Final remaining tickets are available from BOXXER.com

CARDIFF, WALES (May 3, 2024) – English Champion Mark Jeffers will defend his Commonwealth Silver Super Middleweight Title against Scottish Champion Darren Johnstone on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

The undefeated super middleweights clash as part of a huge night of boxing in Cardiff topped by Lauren Price MBE challenging Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles.

Jeffers (17-0, 4 KOs), who is currently ranked #3 with the EBU, is proving to be a dangerman in the 168lbs division. The 26-year-old from Chorley stepped in at short notice to defeat current British and Commonwealth Champion Zak Chelli to claim the English and Commonwealth Silver Titles in July 2023.

Jeffers followed this up with a convincing points win over Germaine Browne at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool in January to retain his belts.

Johnstone captured the Scottish Super Middleweight Title with a first round stoppage win over Ben McGivern. Johnstone sent his opponent to the canvas inside the first stanza before the fight was stopped at the end of the round due to a cut above McGivern’s left eye.

The newly crowned Scottish champion will now step up to face his English counterpart in a battle of Britain in the Welsh capital.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill and claim the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Titles.

Rhys Edwards faces former British Champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward for the WBA Intercontinental Featherweight Title, Hughie Fury returns against Germany’s Patrick Korte, Kyran Jones takes on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell, Kane Shepherd meets Ishmael Ellis and Swansea heavyweight hope Moses Jolly continues his quest to become Wales’ first heavyweight world champion.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com

CARDIFF, WALES (May 2, 2024) – Former World Title challenger Hughie Fury faces Patrick Korte in a heavyweight clash on the undercard of Lauren Price MBE’s WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Title fight with Jessica McCaskill on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

Fury (27-3, 15 KOs) is looking to get his promising career back on track following an extended period out the ring. The 29-year-old returned to action last month, scoring a points win over Kostiantyn Dovbyshchenko. Having previously mixed at world level, Fury will be aiming to get back into title contention with a victory over Germany’s ‘Big Patrick’ Korte (21-3-1, 18 KOs) in the Welsh capital.

Fans can look forward to another exciting contest in Cardiff with undefeated light heavyweight Lewis Edmondson set for action against British rival Joel McIntyre.

Edmondson (8-0, 3 KOs) claimed a points win over Dmytro Fedas last time out at the Bournemouth International Centre in December and will look to extend his unbeaten run as he targets a fight with fast rising star Ben Whittaker.

McIntrye (20-8, 5 KOs) a former two-time English champion who has fought many of the top names in the domestic scene will provide an acid test for Edmondson and prove whether ‘The Saint’ is ready to step up in levels.

They join a stacked undercard that also features undefeated featherweight Rhys Edwards (15-0, 4 KOs) facing former British champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward (34-1-1, 5 KOs) for the WBA Intercontinental Title.

Newport super middleweight Kyran Jones (9-0, 1 KO) taking on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell (3-0) and Cardiff super featherweight Kane Shepherd (4-0, 1 KO) versus Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis (14-8).

Plus undefeated English Super Middleweight Champion Mark Jeffers (17-0, 4 KOs) and Swansea heavyweight hope Moses Jolly (8-0, 6 KOs), who continues his quest to become Wales’ first world heavyweight champion.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill and capture the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Titles.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com

CARDIFF, WALES (April 17, 2024) – Lauren Price MBE tops a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital as she challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th,  live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales, and Peacock in the USA.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the opportunity to write her name in the record books again by becoming Wales’ first female world champion when she meets McCaskill at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena.

Price’s homecoming will also provide a platform for the future stars of Welsh boxing, giving some of the country’s hottest home-grown prospects the chance to showcase their skills. 

Undefeated featherweight Rhys Edwards (15-0, 4 KOs) will look to extend his unbeaten run and move into title contention as he steps up in class to face former British champion and WBA #1 contender Thomas Patrick Ward (34-1-1, 5 KOs).

Edwards, from Penygraig, returns to action following a points victory over Brad Foster in Wolverhampton in November and will be boxing in Wales for the first time since a shut-out six-round win over Ruslan Berchuk on the Chris Eubank Jr vs Liam Williams undercard in Cardiff in February 2022.

Englishman Ward, from County Durham, has had twice as many paid bouts as his Welsh rival. Having suffered his first career defeat in a WBA World Featherweight Title eliminator against Otabek Kholmatibv in 2023, the 29-year-old got back to winning ways with a points victory over Amani Bariki last month.

Edwards is one of three boxers from Gary Lockett’s gym fighting on Price’s undercard with Newport super middleweight Kyran Jones (9-0, 1 KO) and Cardiff super featherweight Kane Shepherd (4-0, 1 KO) also set for action.

26-year-old southpaw Jones will take on fellow unbeaten Welshman Lewis Howell (3-0), also from Newport, and Shepherd, a former ten-time ABA Welsh Champion, will test his skills against Birmingham’s Ishmael Ellis (14-8).

Joining Lockett’s unbeaten trio is Swansea giant Moses Jolly (8-0, 6 KOs), who will look to announce himself on the big stage as he continues his quest to become Wales’ first ever heavyweight world champion.

Plus, undefeated English Super Middleweight Champion Mark Jeffers (17-0, 4 KOs), who is proving to be a dangerman in the 168lbs division having claimed the English title versus current British champion Zak Chelli last July before defending the belt with a convincing points win over Germaine Browne in January.

Lauren Price MBE challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff. All the action is available to watch live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, BBC Wales in Wales and Peacock in the USA.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast and Integritas Property Group.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com

CARDIFF, UK (April 4, 2024) – Lauren Price MBE’s World Welterweight Title fight against Jessica McCaskill will be free and available to all viewers in Wales following a rights deal between BOXXER, Sky Sports and BBC Wales.

Price challenges American champion McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff as part of a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital.

Viewers in Wales will now be able to watch all the action live and free-to-air on BBC Wales as part of a simulcast agreement with Sky Sports, the UK’s biggest live sport platform, who will be broadcasting throughout the UK and Ireland.

History maker Price, the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, has the chance to write her name in the record books again by becoming the country’s first female world champion.

The 29-year-old from Ystrad Mynach is yet to lose a round in the professional ranks but will face her toughest career test when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill.

McCaskill is a two-weight world champion, who unified the WBA and WBC World Super Lightweight Titles before moving up in weight to end Cecilia Brækhus’ decade long reign at the top of the welterweight division.

Lauren Price MBE said: “I think it’s incredible to have the support and backing of BBC Wales and Sky Sports together. When I boxed over in Tokyo for the Olympic Games, the pinnacle of my amateur career, it was covered by the BBC, and now at the pinnacle of my professional career, they’ll be covering my world title fight too, which is brilliant. I’d like to just say a huge thank you to BOXXER, Sky Sports and BBC Wales for coming together and backing me during my journey to become world champion.”

Carolyn Hitt, BBC Wales’ Head of Sport, said: “Wales has a long and proud boxing history and Lauren is already an icon, achieving every accolade – including Olympic gold – as an amateur. Now as a professional, she can hopefully make history again in Cardiff in May. We are extremely proud to be able to bring viewers in Wales the opportunity to witness this huge fight free-to-air, in partnership with BOXXER and Sky Sports.”

Ben Shalom, Founder and CEO of BOXXER, said: “We’re delighted that together with Sky Sports we are able to partner with BBC Wales for this historic event. Lauren Price is already a star in the sport and one of the most talented and decorated athletes Wales has ever produced. At BOXXER we are committed to growing boxing to new audiences and making it more accessible. We’re excited that everyone in Wales will now have the opportunity to watch Lauren’s crowning moment.”

Rob Selmes, Sky Sports Director of Rights, said: “Sky Sports are committed to bringing the biggest sporting moments to sports fans and understand the connection that people feel towards their homegrown talent. That’s why we’re pleased to join forces with BOXXER and BBC Wales to make sure that people in Wales can get behind Lauren Price MBE in her landmark World Title fight against Jessica McCaskill and witness potential history in the making for their local girl.”

Lauren Price MBE challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena Cardiff. All the action is available to watch live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, and live and free-to-air on BBC Wales in Wales.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast and Integritas Property Group.

Tickets are on sale now and available via BOXXER.com

It’s finally time to secure your tickets to see Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE challenge Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff.

Over 50% of all tickets were sold in pre-sale yesterday proving this is certainly an eagerly anticipated fight night and homecoming for Wales’s own Lauren Price.

Tickets are available via the link below from 10am today (Thurs 21st March) and you can join the queue now to be amongst the first in line.
CLICK HERE TO SECURE TICKETS
Ticket prices: £200 / £125 / £80 / £60 / £40

McCaskill vs Price will top an action-packed fight card in Cardiff with undercard fights to be announced very soon.

We’re expecting tickets for this event to be in high demand so we recommend you register and buy your tickets as soon as they become available.

Cardiff, UK (March 13, 2024) – Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE will challenge Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Titles on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Following a glittering amateur career that saw her claim Commonwealth, European and World glory on route to making history as the first Welsh boxer to win Olympic gold, Price (6-0, 1 KO) can write her name in the record books again by becoming Wales’ first female world champion.

The 29-year-old from Ystrad Mynach is yet to lose a round in the professional ranks but will face by far her toughest career test when she attempts to dethrone current welterweight ruler McCaskill (12-3-1, 5 KOs).

McCaskill versus Price will top a huge night of boxing in the Welsh capital as Price looks to secure world honours in front of her home fans. Price is no stranger to representing her country on the world stage having earned 52 caps for the Welsh national football team before deciding to focus her talents on boxing.

McCaskill, from Chicago, Illinois, is a two-weight world champion, who unified the WBA and WBC World Super Lightweight Titles before moving up in weight to end Cecilia Brækhus’ decade long reign at the top of the welterweight division.

Toppling Braekhus with back-to-back wins in 2021 and 2022, McCaskill became undisputed champion at 147 lbs, a weight class where she remains undefeated.

McCaskill has previously challenged Katie Taylor for the WBA World Lightweight Title in 2017 and Chantelle Cameron for the Undisputed Super Lightweight World Titles in 2022. Most recently, McCaskill fought to a draw with Britain’s Sandy Ryan in a fiercely contested welterweight unification clash.

Lauren Price MBE said: “I’m over the moon for this fight to finally be getting announced. I know Ben Shalom and my team have been working very hard behind the scenes to make this happen so I just want to say a big thank you to them.

“The fact it’s in Cardiff is amazing. I’ve not boxed there since I first started out which was a good few years back now. I can’t wait to put on a show in front of my friends, family and Welsh supporters who have been great in supporting me throughout my career. It’ll be an incredible night for sure, to beat the reigning champion in Wales and keep the world titles here will be some feeling!

“Jessica McCaskill is the current champion. She’s game, experienced and strong but I’ll be 100% ready for whatever she brings on the night. I believe in my ability. I back myself and like I said earlier, I can’t wait to bring those world titles back home to Wales, and hopefully this will line me up to bring more massive nights back to Wales in the near future.”

Jessica McCaskill said: “I don’t know much about Price but when it comes to fighters from the UK the expectation is usually lots of back pedalling and holding. I don’t know if this will be the case but coming to Wales means Price is hopefully going to want to put on a good show. That’s exactly what I want because I plan on doing the same. I’m here to steal all of her fans. I’m going to show her what it takes to be a champion and the belts will be coming back to America with me.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “Lauren Price is one of the most talented and decorated athletes that Wales has ever produced. With that, as a promoter, comes great pressure to deliver nights that can forge a legacy. I’m delighted to deliver a huge world title opportunity for Lauren against a very dangerous and experienced champion in Jessica McCaskill. This is a chance for Lauren to establish herself as one of boxing’s future pound-for-pound stars. I believe we are looking at an icon of the sport. She is already a gold medallist, already an MBE, and this is a real milestone and a monumental moment in her career. This is something she has worked towards since she first put on a pair of gloves. I expect a hero’s welcome for her in Cardiff and hopefully a historic performance and the first of many memorable nights in Wales.”

Lauren Price MBE challenges Jessica McCaskill for the WBA, IBO and Ring Magazine World Welterweight Championships on Saturday, May 11th at the Utilita Arena in Cardiff, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast and Integritas Property Group.

Sign up for exclusive access to pre-sale tickets at BOXXER.com.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND (November 21, 2023) – 2020 Olympic gold medallist Lauren Price MBE will face Silvia Bortot on the undercard of Chris Billam-Smith’s WBO World Cruiserweight Title defence against Mateusz Masternak on Sunday, December 10th live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Price (5-0, 1 KO) is on a fast-track to World Title success following a glittering amateur career. Having made history earlier this year by becoming the first female to win a British title, ‘The Lucky One’, will be aiming to end 2023 with a statement win against Bortot (11-3-1, 3 KOs).

The Italian is a former EBU European Super Lightweight Champion who went the distance with former Unified World Champion Mikaela Mayer in Manchester in September, the same night Price secured her fifth pro-victory against Lolita Muzeya.

Price knows a victory can put her in the mix for big fights at welterweight including a showdown with the winner of the upcoming IBF World Title contest between BOXXER stablemate Natasha Jonas and Mikaela Mayer.

“I’m looking forward to December 10th and continuing my progression by finishing the year with a good win to take me into 2024,” said Price. “Bortot is a good opponent, she’s game and tough like them all but I believe I’m the bigger, stronger and better boxer. She boxed Mayer in her last fight and gave her a good ten rounds so she will be a good step up. There are some great female fights coming up and I believe next year I will be involved in the big fights.”

“Lauren is an exceptional talent and one of the future stars of this sport,” said BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom. “She is already closing in on World Titles and in just her sixth fight is taking another step up on December 10th. 2024 can be a massive year for her but first she must overcome a tough test against Silvia Bortot.”

Price joins fellow Olympic medallist Ben Whittaker (4-0, 3 KOs) in action in Bournemouth. Whittaker has got off to a blistering start to his career since turning professional in the wake of his 2020 silver medal glory, wowing crowds around the country with his flamboyant and unorthodox style. The 26-year-old is returning to the south coast, where he made his professional debut, and is looking to end the year on a high with another memorable performance.

Fans can also look forward to a potential show-stealing showdown between Bournemouth’s Lee Cutler (13-1, 7 KOs) and Kingsley Egbunike (8-2-1, 1 KO) for the vacant English Super Welterweight Title.

RETURN OF THE KING: Chris Billam-Smith vs Mateusz Masternak takes place on Sunday, December 10th at the Bournemouth International Centre and will be broadcast live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA. Tickets for the year-ending BOXXER show are already sold out.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and Who Dares Gyms.

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – (May 4, 2023) -World championship belts: that’s the goal for Joshua Buatsi in 2023 as he returns to the ring aiming to put the light-heavyweight division on notice and resume his world title campaign in the main event of the BOXXER: CROWNING GLORY event taking place this Saturday night at Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena.

Unified world champion Artur Beterbiev and WBA champion Dmitry Bivol are both on Buatsi’s radar – but world title opportunities depend on Buatsi successfully handling Poland’s undefeated Pawel Stepien this weekend atop a main card airing live from 7pm on Sky Sports Action and Sky Showcase.

“When you win an amateur tournament you come back with something tangible, a medal to show people,” the 2016 Olympic bronze medal winner told a busy pre-fight press conference today.

“In the professional ranks the equivalent is a world title belt and that’s what I want: something tangible to show people that I am the world champion. So the aim this year is to have something tangible to show the people.”

Buatsi is determined to force his way to a world shot, while Poland’s Stepien is looking for an upset that would see him seize the Londoner’s place at the top of the WBA rankings and position himself for a championship fight.

The two unbeaten boxers are putting their future plans on the line in Saturday’s fight.

“Buatsi is a very good fighter. I have watched and studied his fights and I’m happy that I can step in the ring with him on Saturday night and test my skills,” said Stepien.

“This is the height of my career. I’m even more happy that I’m in the main event.”

“He’s a good boxer, represented his country, which I must give credit to,” he said of Stepien. “I’m sure he’ll be strong and tough. But I’m here to win – there’s no other language, there’s no other thinking process, there’s no other thought. The aim is to win, and look good doing it.”

PRICE vs BAVINGTON

The bill also features a history-making event when Lauren Price and Kirstie Bavington fight for the first professional women’s British championship.

British championship belts for male boxers were inaugurated 114 years ago, but no female equivalent existed – until now.

Price is a trail-blazer who won Wales’ first Olympic boxing gold medal in 2021. But it is early in her pro career and Bavington is a seasoned fighter and a former European champion herself.

“It’s a beautiful looking belt as well. It’s great just to add more history to my name,” Price said. “I believe in myself and I’ll come out victorious. I know she’s game, she’s tough, she’s a pressure fighter, I believe I’m a level above.”

Bavington however will make sure the fight is no coronation for Price, who’s only had three professional fights so far in her career.

“She’s fighting me for 10 rounds. I’m here to win and that’s it. Come May 6 (Saturday), this is me, I’m going to bring that British title home.”

Price’s team-mate from Tokyo Games, Olympic silver medallist Ben Whittaker returns to action against Jordan “The Game” Grant.

Grant has taken exception to Whittaker’s comments and acknowledges there’s “needle” between them.

“It’ll be good when I beat him,” the Scotsman said. “I wouldn’t have taken this fight if I wasn’t confident. But obviously if you’re an Olympian and you’re getting medals you’re right up there in the boxing world. I’m under no illusions – it’s a mountain to climb, but it’ll be sweeter when I beat him. It’ll change my life. I’m ready for a war, so let’s go.”

Ben Whittaker and Jordan Grant continued to exchange words during the face-off ahead of their fight on Saturday night.

Whittaker however is certain that with his injury woes behind him, he is on course for another victory.

“‘The Surgeon’ is back. They call [my style] flash because they can’t do it. Saturday you’ll see more flash, more performances and why I’m special.”

Local men Kaisee Benjamin and Tyler Denny are relishing their bouts that will kick off the televised card, live on Sky Sports Action and Sky Showcase from 7pm on Saturday.

Benjamin fights Sean McComb, the skilled operator from Belfast, while Denny is boxing Macaulay McGowan, who like Denny is in good form.

“In front of the home crowd I’m looking to put on a dominant performance… I’m looking to come, win and do the business, and look good doing it as well.

“It’s a good fight, he’s a game fighter, I’m a game fighter and it’s going to match up really well. I can’t see it not being a great fight.

“It’s going to be fireworks.”

Saturday’s event begins with a live stream airing free on the Sky Sports Boxing YouTube channel at 5pm, followed by the main card which can be watched live from 7pm on Sky Showcase (for non-Sky Sports subscribers) and Sky Sports Action (for Sky Sports subscribers). 

LONDON, ENGLAND – (April 13, 2023) – A new queen will be crowned as an astonishing 114-year wait finally comes to an end on Saturday, May 6th when Lauren Price MBE and Kirstie Bavington become the first female professional boxers in history to compete for the inaugural British Women’s Championship and a coveted Lonsdale Belt.

Introduced in 1909 and named in honour of Lord Lonsdale, the great patron of British boxing, the British championship belt was created as a prize to be awarded to the domestic champions across the various weight classes. 

When the British Board of Boxing Control was formed in 1929 it took over governance of the British championship and Lonsdale belt, which remained available only to male boxers – until now.

Equality for women’s sport will rightfully shine through in what is a huge, landmark moment in just three weeks time when Tokyo 2020 Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE (3-0, 1 KO) meets former EBU European Welterweight champion Kirstie Bavington (7-3-2, 2 KOs), live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK & Republic of Ireland.

The newest addition to the Lonsdale Belt pantheon will keep the same traditional format – including the iconic portrait of Lord Lonsdale – but will have a different ribbon colour. 

Price will be keen to get her hands on it first. The Welsh wonder was the first sportswoman to receive her MBE honour from King Charles III following his accession to the throne last November and she is arguably the most decorated amateur to hail from these shores. 

Since turning professional in 2022, the former Wales international footballer has been victorious in three contests, including February’s impressive victory in Paris, France, over Naomi Mannes – who Bavington defeated for the European title in November 2022.

Price made history last October too at the momentous all-female BOXXER card in London when she stopped Timea Belik in front of a sold-out crowd of 18,000 fans at The O2 and a live television audience of over two million viewers – a record audience for a live women’s sporting event on Sky Sports. 

Fittingly, her historic bout with Bavington will take place in Birmingham, England on the day King Charles III is officially crowned – the first British championship belts were made in the Birmingham workshops of 250-year-old jeweller Mapin & Webb, which is also responsible for the Crown Jewels that will be used in King Charles III’s coronation ceremony.

BOXXER Founder and CEO, Ben Shalom, said: “We are incredibly proud to be history makers once again for women’s boxing with Lauren Price fighting for the first-ever British women’s title against Kirstie Bavington. We are hugely grateful to the British Boxing Board of Control for their phenomenal support and help in the progression for women’s boxing.”

Lauren Price MBE said: “It’s a complete honour. It’s another thing to add to my list to go and make history. I can’t believe it really. It’s a very proud moment for me. I was looking forward to boxing on May 6 anyway. But this is the icing on the cake. To fight in my fourth professional fight for such a prestigious title is the direction I want to go in. It’s absolute honour.”

Robert Smith, General Secretary of the British Boxing Board of Control said: “We are very pleased to approve the first female British Championship, contested by two very good challengers, an Olympic Gold medalist and a former European champion. Women’s boxing has come on tremendously and now we have a British Championship. The winner will indeed be a worthy champion of this historic bout.”

Helen Falkus, Director of Multi Sports at Sky Sports, added: “We’re proud that we are able to say that we will be part of history being made on this momentous night of boxing. The fact that a women’s title fight has been sanctioned for the first time shows the immense growth that women’s boxing is continuing to experience. After historic nights like Shields v Marshall, we look forward to showcasing more of the best fighters in the world.”

BOXXER: Birmingham at the Resorts World Arena, Birmingham is headlined by the newly-signed Joshua Buatsi, himself a former British champion, who kicks off his world title campaign in a clash with undefeated Polish powerhouse Pawel Stepien.

Team GB hero and light-heavyweight sensation Ben Whittaker returns to action on home soil in his beloved Midlands for his third professional bout when he takes on Jordan Grant. Plus, English middleweight champion Tyler Denny faces Manchester’s Macaulay McGowan and Kaisee Benjamin collides with Sean McComb.

To see the full card for May 6 and for the latest ticket news, head to BOXXER.com

This event will be presented in association with official partners Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.

LONDON, England – Wednesday, March 22 – BOXXER, the next generation boxing promotion, will warm up British boxing fans before the summer with three sizzling shows, stacked with some of the UK’s leading prize fighters – including its first-ever stadium show on home soil.

The headline news begins with BOXXER’s first-ever UK stadium show on Bank Holiday Weekend in May, as BOXXER heads back to Bournemouth for another blistering battle on the beach on Saturday, May 27, headlined by hometown hero Chris Billam-Smith (17-1, 12 KO’s). 

It takes place at the 15,000-capacity Vitality Stadium – home of Premier League football team AFC Bournemouth. An opponent for diehard Cherries supporter Billam-Smith will be revealed next Monday at a press conference in London (details to media will follow this week) in a main event that promises to be one of the fights of the year. 

“I think it will be an amazing event and an amazing show. To become number one in my division by winning at my team’s ground would be a dream. It gives me goosebumps just thinking about it. There’s been a lot of special moments there. Hopefully I can create another one,” said Billam-Smith.

And domestic cruiserweight quality will occupy the chief support slot on the South Coast with Mikael Lawal (17-0, 11 KO’s) making his first defence of the British Cruiserweight Championship he won by stopping David Jamieson in November.

Standing opposite him will be Isaac Chamberlain (14-2, 8 KO’s), making his second trip to Bournemouth following his unsuccessful attempt to take the Commonwealth and European cruiserweight belts from Billam-Smith in July last year.

Further fights will be announced in due course, along with ticket news for fight fans.

BOXXER’s terrific trio of electrifying events kicks off with ‘Crowning Glory’ on Saturday, May 6th at the Resorts World Arena, Birmingham when newly-announced BOXXER signing Joshua Buatsi (16-0, 13 KO’s) makes his eagerly-anticipated promotional debut. 

On the day King Charles III is coronated, the former British light-heavyweight champion – who is ranked No.1 in the world by the WBA – faces Pawel Stepien (18-0-1, 12 KO’s) in the headline bout and looks to end his Polish rival’s undefeated record in emphatic fashion as he kicks off his conquest for a world title.

In big news, generational prodigy Ben Whittaker (2-0, 1 KO’s) will make his long-awaited return to the ring in home city of Birmingham.The enigmatic 2020 Olympic silver medallist has already captured fans’ hearts and imaginations with his stunning skills, entertaining showboating style and inhuman reflexes – and he’ll be looking to come back with a bang for what will be his third professional outing.

BOXXER’s first visit to the UK’s second city will also feature Birmingham man Tyler Denny (16-2-3) defending his English middleweight championship in his home city. Denny won the belt in Coventry in June last year and will be making his third defence in this May bout with an opponent to be confirmed.

And Team GB golden girl Lauren Price MBE (3-0, 1 KO) – the nation’s most decorated amateur fighter of all-time – will return, fresh from her impressive victory away from home in Paris where she outclassed Naomi Mannes.

On Saturday, June 10 we head to London where new school meets old school as the incredible Adam Azim (8-0, 6 KOs) competes at the historic York Hall which holds a special place in British boxing folklore.

Azim, 20, has been heralded as a future world champion and last month overcame Santos Reyes at Wembley’s OVO Arena to extend his incredible, unbeaten start to life as a professional fighter.

BOXXER Founder and CEO, Ben Shalom, said: “We are excited to announce phase one of what is a huge schedule coming up for BOXXER and Sky Sports.

“It’s amazing to see new headliners get to the top, new marquee signings start with us and the return of fighters from injury. It really is going to be a groundbreaking few months with career-defining fights and huge nights.

“A special thanks to Joe Ashford-Ellis and AFC Bournemouth for making everything possible for us to stage our first-ever UK stadium show – and a first for the Premier League club too.”

For further details on tickets and event news, head to BOXXER.com

These events will be presented in association with official partners Everlast, WOW HYDRATE and Village Hotels.

Wednesday, November 16, 2022 – BOXXER’s Lauren Price has officially been handed her Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for Services to Boxing in an official royal ceremony at Windsor Castle today.

The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Gold Medalist was celebrated as part of the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s New Year’s Honours List.

Now a professional boxer, the undefeated Olympic hero was joined by her partner and fellow BOXXER star and 2020 Olympics bronze medal winner, Karriss Artingstall to receive her prestigious gong from His Majesty King Charles III.

It was the monarch’s first Investiture Ceremony since his Accession to the throne.

Middleweight Price, who was also a former kick-boxer and international footballer for her country Wales, has fought twice since turning professional in June earlier this year.

Price impressively stopped Timea Belik in front of a sold-out crowd at The O2 in October as part of the record-breaking first-ever all women’s card televised in the UK – viewed by an audience of over two million, making it the most-watched women’s sport event in Sky Sports’ history.

Reacting to Price’s astonishing achievement, BOXXER CEO & Founder Ben Shalom said: “Lauren Price has achieved incredible things already in her illustrious sporting career, culminating in an Olympic gold medal in Tokyo last summer. 

“Being recognised by His Majesty is one of the greatest honours any person can achieve. 

“She is the standout star and we believe Lauren will go on to be an international superstar in the world of boxing.”

LONDON, ENGLAND – (9th August 2022) – Golden girl Lauren Price MBE (1-0) will fight on a historic night of women’s boxing as the Welsh wonder takes on Hungary’s Timea Belik (6-6-0, 2 KOs) at The O2 in London on 10th September, screened live and exclusively on Sky Sports.

Tickets are on sale now via Boxxer.com, with prices beginning at just £25.

Stylish southpaw Price opened her professional career with an impressive points victory over Valgerdur Gudstensdottir at Wembley back in June. 

And the Tokyo 2020 Team GB gold medallist from Newport will be keen to make another emphatic statement of intent to the middleweight division on what will be a defining night of ‘Legacy’ at the iconic venue in London.

Price’s partner and fellow Olympic hero Karriss Artingstall (1-0) will also be out to make it two wins from two on the professional scene when she faces off against France’s experienced campaigner Marina Sakharov (5-16-2, 3 KOs).

The Macclesfield featherweight shone on her debut in Coventry earlier this summer, when she comfortably dispatched Vaida Masiokaite on points. 

Fellow former Team GB star Caroline Dubois (3-0, 2 KOs) will bid to continue her meteoric rise towards a future world title shot when she takes on Bulgaria’s seasoned professional Milena Koleva (10-14-1, 4 KOs) in six rounds of lightweight action.

Destined for superstardom, ‘Sweet Caroline’ dazzled in front of a sold-out Boxxer crowd in Bournemouth last week as she celebrated her third professional win inside five months, demolishing Happy Daudi with a clinical, third round TKO finish.

Fight fans will undoubtedly witness something special with Dubois in action, when the Shane McGuigan-trained southpaw displays her dynamite arsenal of shots in her home city.

But she faces a formidable opponent in Koleva who took Katie Taylor to the distance back in March 2017, only to be beaten on points.

Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO and Founder, said: “We’re proud to announce these three Team GB Olympic heroines joining us to make boxing history on 10th September. 

“Caroline was incredible in Bournemouth and is clearly destined to reach the top, but this fight against Milena Koleva will be a tough step up for her against an opponent who pushed Katie Taylor to the limit. I also can’t wait to see Lauren and Karriss in action on the same night. Both have exciting futures and I know they will be keen to steal the limelight with impressive performances.

“Thanks to an incredible summer of the Lionesses celebrating Euro glory and the success of the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham there’s a massive feelgood factor around women’s sport and now it’s professional boxing’s time to shine. We couldn’t be any prouder to put on this historic show at The O2.”

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, added: “This truly is history in the making. And adding three super talented and hugely popular Olympians to the mix makes it even better. Caroline has shown why she will be a prospect to be feared, especially with her brilliant display recently in Bournemouth.

“And both Lauren and Karriss are destined for very bright futures – Olympic 2020 medalists and now two of the brightest prospects in British boxing and emerging onto the professional circuit in an era when women’s sport is ascending to its rightful place alongside the men’s game and inspiring a whole new generation of female athletes. I cannot wait to watch all three in action for what will be an unmissable evening at The O2.”

Elsewhere on the undercard, Portsmouth’s Ebonie Jones (2-0-1) faces Spanish featherweight foe Vanesa Caballero (4-15-3), as exciting American flyweight Ginny Fuchs (1-0, 1 KO) travels across the pond to take on Gemma Ruegg (5-4-0, 1 KO).  

April Hunter (5-1-0) faces Argentina’s Erica Alvarez (3-6-0), whilst fellow North-East native and rising super-welterweight prospect Georgia O’Connor (2-0) looks to protect her unbeaten start in the professional ranks. 

Londoner Shannon Ryan (2-0) makes the short Tube trip across the Jubilee Line from Neasden to North Greenwich as the super flyweight comes up against Spain’s Bucha El Quaissi (3-2-3, 1 KO).

And super bantamweight sensation Sarah Leigmann (4-0, 1 KO) completes a historic all female line-up as the German fighter goes head-to-toe with Swindon’s Bec Connolly (3-15-0).

Over a decade in the making, bitter rivals Claressa Shields (12-0, 2 KOs) and Savannah Marshall (12-0, 10 KOs) headline the most anticipated women’s fight in history in a winner-takes-all undisputed title clash.

Also fighting on this unmissable evening of boxing are some of the best female fighters on the planet in Mikaela Mayer (17-0, 5 KOs) and Alycia Baumgardner (12-1-0, 7 KOs). The American rivals will battle it out in the co-main event for the undisputed super featherweight championship.

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

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

Tickets are on sale now via Boxxer.com, with prices beginning at just £25.

London, England – (May 3, 2022) – Full steam ahead for ‘The Midnight Train’ Richard Riakporhe as he returns to action at the OVO Arena, Wembley on Saturday, June 11, live and exclusive on Sky Sports, to take on Italy’s Fabio Turchi in an eliminator battle which will see the winner move up the cruiserweight rankings and in prime position to challenge reigning champion Maris Breidis later this year.

With Riakporhe (14-0, 10 KO’s) coming off a stunning knockout victory over Deion Jumah in March and former IBF International Cruiserweight champion Turchi (20-1, 14 KO’s) having a 66% stoppage rate in his victories, this fight matches two proven finishers and promises action from the very start as both men look to score the knockout which will move them on to world championship opportunity.

Bermondsey’s former WBO Global Welterweight Champion Chris Kongo (13-1-0, 7 KO’s) has a route back into world title contention if he defeats the tough German contender Sebastaian Formella (23-2-0, 11 KO’s) in their International showdown.  

Kongo is raring to get back into pole position after winning his comeback fight against Kelvin Dotel in March following his close points loss to Michael McKinson last year. While Formella is looking for his own shot at the World title and his only two losses have been against Former World Champion Shawn Porter and Connor Benn, pushing both big hitters the distance.

Two of the very best young fighters in the UK, English Super-Middleweight Champion Germaine Brown (12-0, 3 KO’s) defends his title against challenger Zak Chelli (11-1-1, 6 KO’s) in an exciting trade fight.

The two Londoners will both be going into this fight totally confident of victory and certain to put on an eye-catching performance in a 50-50 fight which will delight the nation’s boxing fans and looks set to steal the show.

Also on the card, the long-awaited professional debut of Tokyo 2020 Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price MBE.

One of the most highly-touted amateurs in women’s boxing, Price earned the amateur sport’s supreme honour when she won gold last summer. She was subsequently awarded an MBE in recognition of this stunning success. 

She now looks destined to reach the very highest level of the professional sport in the exciting and fast-moving world of women’s boxing, with the first step towards that greatness coming on June 11.

Cruiserweight star Viddal Riley (5-0-0, 2 KO’s) fights in his home city for the first time in his pro career. The Hackney sensation made his pro-debut in November 2018 with a first round KO of Julio Manuel Gonzalez in Mexico and has since fought in Las Vegas (twice) and Dubai. 

Last time out he was on the huge Amir Khan-Kell Brook undercard in Manchester in February registering a six-round points win over Willbeforce Shihepo via a first round knockdown and aims to showcase his power and skill in front of the London fans.

“I’m ready to continue my assault on the cruiserweight division. The Midnight Train is on an unstoppable roll and Turchi is the next man tied to the tracks in front of me. He’s a good boxer and I’m expecting a tough fight but nothing I can’t handle. I’m coming out of this one with the win and stepping up into world title contention,” said Riakporhe.

“I am very happy to have this opportunity. Since I was a kid I always dreamed of fighting at the international level and in an important venue like this. I’m dedicating my body and soul to get into the best shape and have a great match against Riakporhe who I think is an excellent boxer,” said Turchi.

“Richard Riakporhe has been on an unstoppable rise to world title contention and now he’s potentially within touching distance of getting his shot at gold. Turchi is the former IBF International Champion and brings heavy firepower to the ring. This is Riakporhe’s toughest career challenge to date and a win here will make a strong statement about his potential to be world champion,” said Ben Shalom, BOXXER Founder and CEO.

“The English Super-Middleweight Title showdown between Zak Chelli and Germaine Brown is a fight which every boxing fan in the country will be glued to. It’s impressive that they are willing to fight each other at this stage and lay it all on the line. Don’t be surprised if this is a Fight Of The Year contender.

“Finally, the professional debut of Lauren Price. Olympic gold medalist, MBE – there aren’t many athletes in any sport who have those kind of credentials and we’re proud to be sharing her professional journey and being part of her rise to the top.”

Adam Smith, Head of Boxing Development at Sky Sports, said, “This is shaping up to be a fantastic card. I’m looking forward to seeing ‘The Midnight Train’ Riakporhe roll back into Wembley after that excellent win over Jumah. Another big test awaits as he faces the tough and classy Turchi. 

“The fight between Chelli and Brown is a really good match. We’ve seen some absolutely cracking fights in the English title matches, those fights just seem to deliver incredible action, and this is a 50-50 pick ’em. 

“I’m also really excited to see Lauren Price begin her professional journey. She was a standout amateur and achieved so much for the sport, everyone at Sky Sports is very proud to have her with us and we can’t wait to see her achieve equally huge things in the pro ranks.”

Tickets are on sale from 12pm midday tomorrow, Wednesday May 4 via BOXXER.com priced at £250, £150, £100, £75, £60 and £40. 

BOXXER proudly presents this event in association with bet365, Everlast, Wow Hydrate and Village Hotels.

 Newcastle, England – April 2, 2022 – Having reached the pinnacle of amateur boxing success, Olympic heroines Lauren Price MBE and Karriss Artingstall will now enter the professional ranks under the BOXXER banner, it was announced today.

With fellow Olympians Claressa Shields, Caroline Dubois and Tasha Jonas in attendance, Price and Artingstall were unveiled as the newest signings to the roster today at a press conference held in Newcastle’s Utilita Arena prior to tonight’s BOXXER event, which is headlined by WBO World Middleweight Champion Savannah Marshall.

The signing of Price and Artingstall to exclusive long-term promotional agreements confirms BOXXER as the home of the world’s strongest stable of professional female boxers and Sky Sports as the biggest platform for the women’s side of the sport.

Born and raised in Wales, Price was an outstanding athlete from a young age and achieved success across several sports before deciding to focus exclusively on boxing. She played professional football for several years with Cardiff City and also captained the Welsh Under-19 national team.

Her 2014 decision to dedicate herself entirely to boxing met with immediate reward at the 2014 Commonwealth Games when she became the first Welshwoman ever to win a boxing medal at the games. Her 2014 bronze medal was surpassed four years later when she won gold at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, followed by a gold at the 2019 World Championships.

The crowning glory of her amateur career came at the 2020 Summer Olympics, when she won a gold medal for Great Britain in the middleweight division. In recognition of her incredible achievements, Price was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2022 New Year Honours list.

Macclesfield’s Artingstall – a gunner in the Royal Horse Artillery – also medalled at the 2020 Summer Olympics, winning bronze in the highly competitive women’s featherweight division after a close loss in the semi-finals.

A year prior, she won two medals for England, taking silver in the 2019 European Championships and bronze in the World Championships, those medals joining a haul which also includes gold medals from the 2018 Elite Championships and the 2012 and 2013 Junior Championships.

Adding to the historic nature of their individual achievements, Price and Artingstall – who are partners outside the training room – made history together as the first same-sex couple to win Olympic medals in boxing and now make history again as the first such couple to sign with a major professional boxing promotion.

“I’m really delighted to sign with BOXXER as Ben Shalom seems to be stamping his authority as a promoter in the boxing scene, especially on the female side of things,” said Price.

“As an amateur I ticked every box, winning consecutive golds at the Commonwealth Games, Europeans, Worlds and Olympics. Sky Sports is a massive platform with all the ingredients to turn someone like myself into a superstar so I can’t wait to get the show on the road and aim for those world titles!”

Artingstall commented, “I think I’ve 100% made the right decision in teaming up with BOXXER as I push forward into the pro ranks. BOXXER and Ben Shalom are doing wonders for the sport right now and I can’t wait to see where this journey goes.”

“I’ve achieved more than most in the amateurs and I’m more than ready to work my way up to world titles on the biggest and best platform of them all, Sky Sports Boxing.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom remarked, “We are proud and excited to welcome two athletes who have achieved such incredible things and we look forward to achieving more incredible things together as Lauren Price and Karriss Artingstall set out with BOXXER and Sky Sports on their quests for professional honours.”

“This is one of the most exciting announcements yet in the flourishing Sky/Boxxer partnership. We have been massively pushing for this key double signing and we believe we have struck gold here,” said Adam Smith, Sky Sports Head of Boxing Development.

“Lauren brought that ultimate medal back from Tokyo while Karriss brought home Bronze. They have the highest of skills and power and they ooze charisma. We will do everything we can to give them the biggest of platforms to become major stars.

“The signing of Lauren and Karriss – joining the likes of Savannah, Claressa, Tasha and Caroline on Sky surely means we have the leading female stable globally. Ben Shalom and I couldn’t be more happy with the brightest of futures for our fabulous women!”