MIDLAND, Texas – September 18, 2019 – Undefeated prospects Michael Dutchover and Ruben Villa talked training camp and upcoming matchups in advance of this Friday’s ShoBox: The New Generation tripleheader live on SHOWTIME (10:30 ET / PT) from La Hacienda Event Center in Midland, Texas.

Fighting in front of his hometown fans for the first time as a professional, the fast-rising Texan Dutchover (13-0, 10 KOs) returns for his second consecutive test on ShoBox after making an impressive debut in May with a first-round knockout. The 21-year-old prospect will face his toughest test to date in ShoBox veteran Thomas Mattice (14-1-1, 10 KOs), a fearless five-year pro that has displayed promising boxing skills in previous appearances on the developmental prospect series.

In a battle of undefeated featherweight prospects, two-time Junior Olympic National Champion and two-time Golden Gloves Champion Ruben Villa (16-0, 5 KOs) will face Garcia Promotions’ most coveted prospect, Mexico’s Enrique Vivas (17-0, 9 KOs) in a 10-round matchup. In the opening bout, undefeated welterweight prospect Brandun Lee (14-0, 12 KOs) will face Nicaragua’s Milton Arauz (10-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-round bout.

Here is what Dutchover and Villa, who are promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing, had to say at the conclusion of training camp as they prepare for their fights on Friday night:

MICAHEL DUTCHOVER:

“This was my best camp. I feel very confident. We stepped it up a notch. Everything went smooth. It was pure hard work and dedication throughout this camp.

“I know that my fights are getting tougher and opponents are getting better. Thomas Mattice is going to bring out the best in me. A lot of my fights have been quick knockouts, and hopefully now with this fight, people will see that I bring a high skill level.

“I have been very focused on the fight, and not focusing on where the fight is taking place. My family, friends, coaches and teachers will all be there, but It doesn’t matter where the ring is, I am at home.

“Every fight, I am looking to make a big statement being that it is a main event on ShoBox against a durable guy. I feel this win will catapult me into the rankings in the 135 lb. division.”

RUBEN VILLA:

“It was a good training camp. We trained in Riverside, Calif., for the last four weeks of camp.”

“I have sparred with Vivas in the past and from what I remember it was my first day back in the gym after a fight. He was an aggressive fighter, and I know I just have to be smart and execute to be successful on fight night.

“I am excited to be back on ShoBox. I know that I must be winning and doing my job for me to keep getting on ShoBox and getting this great exposure.

“I feel that a title shot is in reach. I see by mid-2020 that I will be fighting for a title.”

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing in association with GH3 Promotions, Garcia Promotions and Now Boxing Promotions, are priced at $120, $100 and $80 and can be purchased online at www.haciendamidland,com or by calling 432-563-3737.

NEW YORK – September 5, 2019 – Undefeated welterweight prospect Brandun Lee will make his television debut against Nicaraguan Milton Arauz in the eight-round opening bout of a three-fight ShoBox: The New Generation telecast on Friday, September 20 live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from La Hacienda Event Center in Midland, Texas.

In the previously announced main event, Midland native and fast-rising prospect Michael Dutchover will face ShoBox veteran Thomas Mattice in a 10-round lightweight bout while undefeated featherweight prospects Ruben Villa (16-0, 5 KOs) and Enrique Vivas (17-0, 9 KOs) clash in a 10-round matchup.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing in association with GH3 Promotions, Garcia Promotions and Now Boxing Promotions, are priced at $120, $100 and $80 and can be purchased online at www.haciendamidland,com or by calling 432-563-3737.

Super lightweight prospect Lee(15-0, 13 KOs), of La Quinta, Calif. turned pro at 17 after a decorated amateur career (196-5). He has sparred with Mikey Garcia, Devin Haney and Mauricio Herrera. Trained by his father Bobby, the 20-year-old has built up an 87-percent knockout ratio. A very active fighter, he had five bouts in 2018 and he will be facing his fourth opponent this year. He last fought on August 23 and is looking for a definitive win on his TV debut.

“I’m really excited about my first television fight on ShoBox and my first eight-round fight,” Lee said. “I’m in camp training really hard with my dad and trainer. This is an amazing opportunity for me. I will not disappoint on September 20.”

The 27-year-old, Arauz (10-1-1, 5 KOs), of Jinotega, Nicaragua, had a successful amateur run. He fought 80 amateur bouts and compiled a record of 74 wins against six defeats. He turned pro in 2014 and won his first nine bouts. His lone loss came in May of 2017, when he was disqualified for repeated low blows against Angel Galo. Nicknamed “El Norteño”, Arauz will be fighting outside of his native Nicaragua for the first time on September 20.

“I’m very excited to showcase my talent on such a big network,” Arauz said. “Knowing so many great fighters had the opportunity to fight on ShoBox, I’m ready to put on a show. Also being able to come to the United States for the first time. I’m ready to give it my all and put on a great performance.”

Arauz said he’s aware of the undefeated Lee’s background and that he was also an outstanding amateur. “That’s not going to stop me, and I’m ready to give it my all and take it to him,” Arauz said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me and I’m going to take advantage of it. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to get the win.”

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation

Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 80 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more. 

NEW YORK – August 22, 2019 – Undefeated lightweight prospect Michael Dutchover returns to ShoBox: The New Generation seeking to make a statement win in his homecoming fight against Thomas Mattice in the 10-round main event of a three-fight telecast on Friday, September 20 live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from La Hacienda Event Center in Midland, Texas.

The fast-rising Texan prospect Dutchover (13-0, 10 KOs) returns for his second consecutive test on ShoBox after making an impressive debut in May with a first-round knockout. The 21-year-old prospect will face his toughest test to date in ShoBox veteran Mattice (14-1-1, 10 KOs), a fearless five-year pro that has displayed promising boxing skills in previous appearances on the developmental prospect series.

In a battle of undefeated featherweight prospects, two-time Junior Olympic National Champion and two-time Golden Gloves Champion Ruben Villa (16-0, 5 KOs) will face Garcia Promotions’ most coveted prospect, Mexico’s Enrique Vivas (17-0, 9 KOs) in a 10-round matchup. In the opening bout, undefeated welterweight prospect Brandun Lee (14-0, 12 KOs) will face an opponent yet to be named.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing in association with GH3 Promotions, Garcia Promotions and Now Boxing Promotions, are priced at $120, $100 and $80 and can be purchased online at www.haciendamidland,com or by calling 432-563-3737.

“We were able to put together one of the best ShoBox cards we’ve seen so far this year thanks to the collective efforts of five promoters that didn’t shy away from matching their prospects tough,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of ShoBox: The New Generation. “We get to see unbeaten Michael Dutchover making his hometown debut in a step-up fight against the talented Thomas Mattice, a match of unbeaten prospects in Villa vs. Vivas and the series debut of a top prospect and former amateur standout Brandun Lee. September 20, is without any doubt, the classic example of what ShoBox is all about.”

“We are excited to once again be able to showcase Michael Dutchover and Ruben Villa on ShoBox,” said Artie Pelullo, President and CEO, Banner Promotions. “It will be a great experience for Michael to fight at home and continue his ascension up the ranks. Ruben is ranked very high, so we expect a great performance as he continues to position himself for a world title.”

“In a lot of ways this is a coming out party for Michael, but anyone that has followed his career knows he boasts world championship talent and has the dedication to get to the top,” said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing. “Also on the card is Ruben, another supremely talented youngster that will also be in the mix for a world title shot in the near term. Boxing fans who tune in on SHOWTIME are going to see two incredible talents.”

Dutchover, of Santa Fe Springs, Calif. by way of Midland, Texas, started boxing at the age of eight, compiling a notable amateur record of 130-17. He was a runner-up at the 2016 National Golden Gloves and a Bronze Medalist in the 2016 Olympic qualifiers, turning pro shortly afterwards. Dutchover, who boasts a 77 percent KO ratio, has knocked out his last five opponents including durable prospect Rosekie Cristobal in his last outing in just 109 seconds.

Dutchover will wear former NFL running back and legendary Texas Longhorn player Cedric Benson’s jersey to the ring on fight night. Benson, who also played football for the renowned Robert E. Lee High School in Midland, was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident on August 17.

“Mattice is a talented fighter, he will bring out the best in me,” said Dutchover, who is excited to headline in his hometown. “Fighting at home means everything to me. I have fought mostly in California and on the East Coast. This homecoming is overdue. Like Friday Night Lights, I will be the next big thing from Midland, Texas. I will have my teachers, coaches and classmates there on fight night. I am ready for a big outing.”
Mattice, who is making his fifth start on the series, is looking to rebound after last minute opponent, Will Madera, handed him his first defeat in his last ShoBoxappearance. Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, the 28-year-old lightweight fought to a split-draw in an immediate rematch with Zhora Hamazaryan in September 2018 after winning a controversial split-decision in their first bout. Prior to his back-to-back fights with Hamazaryan, Mattice had won six consecutive bouts via knockout. He scored a decision over Angel Sarinana in his last start in May.

“I am focused and confident,” said Mattice. “I haven’t watched much on my opponent. I let my team watch and develop the best possible game plan. I know he is a durable guy but I’m coming to win. This is my fifth ShoBox appearance and I feel that shows people recognize my talent and hard work.”

“Since day one Thomas Mattice has put his character on the line letting everyone know he doesn’t duck anyone,” said Mattice’s promoter Vito Mielnicki, President of GH3 Promotions. “It’s a crossroads fight for both fighters; Mike [Dutchover] is young and hungry and has never been in a top-level fight but has the pedigree, and Thomas has been tested and proven he belongs. It’s going to be the fight of the night. I predict Thomas will win by KO.”

The 22-year-old Villa of Salinas, Calif., returns for his third consecutive test on ShoBox after scoring a unanimous decision over Luis Alberto Lopez in May and outclassing then-unbeaten Ruben Cervera in January. Villa, who started boxing at the age of five, owns victories over Shakur Stevenson, Devin Haney and Gary Antonio Russell as an amateur (166-17). He turned pro in 2016 and is considered by many a prospect to watch. He hopes to continue his rapid ascension in the featherweight ranks with an exceptional showing against the undefeated Vivas.

“I am looking forward to performing in front of the fans in Texas,” said Villa, “I sparred with Enrique Vivas in the past, he’s an aggressive fighter. My team and I put together a good game plan and I’m going to follow it. I think a win here will position me a step closer to a title shot. I hope to be in a title eliminator or championship fight within the next 12-to-18 months. I have my eye on the vacant WBO belt.”

Vivas of Texcoco, Mexico, is coming off a unanimous decision victory over Jose Estrella in his United States debut in June. He started training in martial arts and kickboxing from an early age, turning to the sweet science at 17, after a motorcycle accident. As an amateur, he won national, regional and state championships, amassing a 93-7 record. He turned pro in late 2014 and has stayed very active, fighting three-to-five times per year. Nicknamed “El Ejecutor” (The Executioner) for his devastating combinations, the 25-year-old has built his undefeated record against limited opposition and a victory over a gifted prospect like Villa can catapult his rise through the ranks.

“I am very happy I got this opportunity,” said Vivas, who is making his television debut on September 20. “Ruben Villa is a very strong southpaw with a lot of experience. He is one of the best featherweights out there. I’m up for the challenge. All of the struggles I have been through in my life have led me here, to this fight. When I fight, I let it all out. It will be a very exciting fight. Don’t miss it.”

“I’m very excited for Vivas’ debut on ShoBox,” said four-division champion Mikey Garcia, who is the President of Garcia Promotions. “This is a 50-50 fight. When we agreed to this matchup, we made the decision with a premise in mind that we firmly believe in: We fight the best to be the best. That is and will continue to be the foundation of Garcia Promotions.”

Super lightweight prospect Lee, of Coachella, Calif., turned pro at 17 after a stellar amateur run (196-5). He has sparred with Mikey Garcia, Devin Haney and Mauricio Herrera. Trained by his father Bobby, the 20-year-old has built up an 86-percent knockout ratio. A very active fighter, he has fought Pablo Martinez and Jorge Munguia. A definitive win on his TV debut would help put his name on the map.

“I am very excited and grateful for this opportunity to fight on national television,” said Lee. “I am young and any good performance will boost my career in a positive way, whether it is a knockout or decision. I am a boxer-puncher and I can adapt to anything in the ring. I am looking forward to showcasing my skills on national television.”

“I can’t describe how excited I am about Brandun Lee,” said Now Boxing Promotions’ Cameron Dunkin, Lee’s promoter. “He was 196-5 as an amateur and won 16 National Championships. He is truly gifted and very talented. He’s of Korean heritage and his fan base is huge. They really support him. He has an amazing future.”

Barry Tompkins will call the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Chuck McKean producing and Rick Phillips directing.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 80 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

PHILADELPHIA, PA – May 30, 2019 – Highly touted undefeated prospects, featherweight Ruben Villa and lightweight Michael Dutchover visited the historic boxing city of Philadelphia where they took in some of the iconic sites and ate the Philadelphia delicacy of a “Philly Cheesesteak.” 

Villa and Dutchover are visiting Philadelphia to see co-promoter Banner Promotions, and then on Friday they will head up the Jersey Turnpike to attend the Boxing Writers Association of America Awards Dinner and The Copacabana in New York City.

The two highly regarded prospects also went to the Art Museum and posed with the Rocky Statue, The Liberty Bell and Steak Sandwich eateries, Pat’s and Geno’s.

Villa and Dutchover are coming off impressive performances on May 10th in bouts that were televised on ShoBox: The New Generation that was Live on SHOWTIME.

Villa (16-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, California won a 10-round unanimous decision over Luis Alberto Lopez.  Dutchover (13-0, 10 KOs) of Midland, Texas scored an explosive 1st round stoppage over Rosekie Cristobal.
Villa and Dutchover are co-promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing.
For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please like the Banner Promotions Facebook Page, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

CORONA, Calif. – May 10, 2019 – Undefeated prospect Ruben Villa stayed true to his calm and consistent style, recording a unanimous decision over Luis Alberto Lopez in his first main-event appearance on ShoBox: The New Generation Friday from Omega Products Events Center in Corona, Calif.

The judges’ scorecards read 98-92, 97-93 and 96-94 in the featherweight bout, although all three ShoBox commentators had Villa winning each round except the 10th round, giving the final round to Lopez (17-2, 8 KOs) in a fight that saw nearly 1,400 punches thrown.

“I give myself a ‘C’ grade,” said Villa, making his second consecutive ShoBox appearance. “He was a tough opponent and had a real awkward style and wasn’t really a boxer. It took me awhile to adjust to him and it was hard not to get frustrated.”

Taken the 10-round distance for the first time in his career, the 22-year-old Villa (16-0, 5 KOs) of Salinas, Calif., took the first two rounds to get used to the top-15 ranked contender Lopez’s awkward style before he began landing heavy body shots to dominate the third round.

In the seventh round, Villa out-jabbed Lopez and continued the onslaught of body punches in the ninth round, but was not able to get the knockout against the game Lopez.

“I agreed with the judges’ scorecards,” the two-time National Golden Gloves Amateur Champion Villa said. “I still got the unanimous decision win so I have no problem with that. I can take a whole lot from this fight tonight.”

Lopez was coming off an upset victory over Ray Ximenez in his U.S. debut in February but could not repeat the feat against the highly regarded Villa.

“I hit him with the better shots,” Lopez said. “I was consistently throwing and landing the power shots while he was just jabbing. I felt good. It’s a complicated to fight a lefty, but I thought I landed the punches that scored.”

In the co-feature, undefeated 21-year-old rising prospect Michael Dutchover (13-0, 10 KOs) made quick work of late replacement Rosekie Cristobal (15-4, 11 KOs) of the Philippines, connecting on a right-left combination to Cristobal’s liver that sent him to both knees before being counted out by referee Zachary Young at 1:46 of the first round of a scheduled eight-round super lightweight contest.

In his ShoBox debut, Dutchover of Santa Fe Springs, Calif., by way of Midland, Texas, recorded six body connects among his 11 landed power punches in the fight that lasted just 109 seconds.

“I have to be able to adjust,” said Dutchover, a runner-up at the 2016 National Golden Gloves and a bronze medalist in the 2016 Olympic qualifiers. “I was given a tall lefty on short notice due to the original opponent dropping out. Part of being a professional is being able to adapt. It’s nothing I haven’t seen before. I’ve seen pretty much every style through the amateurs and now during sparring sessions as a pro.”

Dutchover added: “I was patient and waited for the open shots. He wasn’t covering up the body so that was my target. The plan from the beginning was to break him down. I’m just happy I was able to end it early and give the fans something to talk about.”

In the opening bout of the tripleheader, undefeated bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez (12-0, 7 KOs) recorded an eighth-round knockout against Brandon Benitez (14-2, 6 KOs) in an entertaining and all-action fight.

After an even first round, Sanchez and Benitez continued to trade shots over the first three rounds before Benitez’s legs began to betray him and he tired midway through the fourth, slowing the pace of the fight considerably. Sanchez, of North Hollywood, Calif., landed three huge punches that staggered Benitez as the fourth round came to a close, stoking the undefeated prospect with confidence as the fight reached progressed to the later rounds.

In the seventh round, Mexico’s Benitez suffered an injury over his right eye from a Sanchez punch, and referee Raul Caiz Jr. warned Benitez prior to the eight round to protect himself. At the start of the eighth round, a flush right hand by the 21-year-old Sanchez connected cleanly and Caiz Jr. stepped in and stopped the fight after just 18 seconds.

“I felt strong throughout the fight,” Sanchez said. “Benitez was tough so I had to be careful and aggressive at the same time. I know I hurt him a handful of times, but I know I can do better. My conditioning was great. I was ready to go the distance.”

Sanchez out-landed the 21-year-old Benitez 145-94 overall and 123-78 in power connects while landing 42 percent of his power shots to Benitez’s 29 percent.

“I was responding well in every round,” said Benitez from Queretaro, Mexico. “I don’t know why the referee stopped it. I had a lot more left. I’m just disappointed I wasn’t allowed to finish the fight.”

In Non-Televised Action

Former world title contender Petr Petrov (40-6-2, 20 KOs), who at 36 still campaigns as a lightweight, made easy work of former interim world title-chalenger Ruben Tamayo (27-13-4, 18 KOs)by dropping him three times in the second round to win via knockout at the 2:59 mark.

Petrov, stalked Tamayo from the opening bell and split his guard numerous times with a stiff right. Tamayo looked overwhelmed from the start and was fortunate to exit the fight when he did.

Middleweight contender and 2018 champion of The Contender champion Brandon Adams was interviewed during Friday’s telecast to discuss his June 29 SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING® showdown with undefeated Jermall Charlo, which was announced earlier on Friday.

“I’m a new face,” Adams told Hall of Famer Steve Farhood. “I’m in the top 10. I’m in the discussion and I think that’s enough to shake everything up. The guy that comes out to nowhere is a great story for boxing.

“I hope I get the best Charlo because I’m bringing the best ‘Cannon.’ I’m very fan friendly and I definitely go for the kill. When I get in the ring I like to entertain myself. I’m very much looking forward to fighting Charlo. It’s going to be exciting.”

Friday’s fights were promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. The full telecast will replay on Monday, May 12 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME EXTREME and will be available on SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and SHOWTIME on DEMAND®.

Barry Tompkins called the action from ringside with boxing historian Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer was Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Chuck McKean directing.

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

ONTARIO, Calif. – May 9, 2019 – Undefeated featherweight prospect Ruben Villa and once-beaten and top-15 ranked contender Luis Alberto Lopez both made weight a day before their main event showdown on ShoBox: The New Generation Friday, May 10 live on SHOWTIME (10:30 p.m. ET/PT) from Omega Products Events Center in Corona, Calif.

The 22-year-old Villa (15-0, 5 KOs) returns in a 10-round bout for his second consecutive test on the prospect developmental series after dispatching then-unbeaten Ruben Cervera in the first ShoBox telecast of 2019. The two-time National Golden Gloves Amateur Champion and highly touted prospect will take on the Mexican Lopez (17-1, 8 KOs), who is coming off an upset victory over Ray Ximenez in his U.S. debut in February.

In the co-feature, fast-rising 21-year-old Texan Michael Dutchover (12-0, 9 KOs) will take on late replacement Rosekie Cristobal (15-3, 11 KOs) of the Philippines in an eight-round super lightweight contest. In the opening bout of the tripleheader, undefeated bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez (11-0, 6 KOs) battles Mexican Brandon Benitez (14-1, 6 KOs) in an 10-round bout.

Friday’s ShoBox telecast immediately follows the premiere of ALL ACCESS: WILDER vs. BREAZEALE at 10 p.m. ET/PT on SHOWTIME.

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing, are priced at $125, $75 and $60 and can be purchased online at www.thompsonboxing.com or by calling 714-935-0900.

FINAL WEIGHTS, REFEREES AND JUDGES

Featherweight 10-Round Bout
Ruben Villa – 125 lbs.
Luis Alberto Lopez – 125 ½ lbs.
Referee: Thomas Taylor; Judges: Dr. Lou Moret, Max DeLuca, Fernando Villarreal

Super Lightweight 8-Round Bout
Michael Dutchover – 138 lbs.
Rosekie Cristobal – 137 ¾ lbs.
(Contracted weight is 138 pounds)
Referee: Zachary Young; Judges: Carla Caiz, Max DeLuca, Dr. Lou Moret

Bantamweight 10-Round Bout
Saul Sanchez – 118 lbs.
Brandon Benitez – 117 lbs.
Referee: Raul Caiz Jr.; Judges: Dr. Lou Moret, Max DeLuca, Rudy Barragan
Note: All refs and judges are from California

Here’s what the fighters had to say before they weighed in at the Doubletree Hilton in Ontario.

FINAL QUOTES:

RUBEN VILLA
“I thought I had a decent performance in my fight against Ruben Cervera on ShoBox and it’s great to be out there again on TV and in my first main event.

“Boxing fans are starting to know my name. A lot of them don’t know I had wins over Devin Haney, Shakur Stevenson and Gary Russell in the amateurs and have stayed active since turning pro. I’m ready for this and to can’t wait to be a main event fighter on ShoBox.

“I know I’m in one of boxing’s toughest divisions and I look up to all the top guys at 126 pounds. Shakur Stevenson and I have talked about fighting in the future, and it might just happen someday.”

“My training team of Max Garcia and Dean Familton have me ready and I’m more prepared for this fight than any I’ve ever been. I am confident that style is going to confuse my opponent.

“If I’m up 8-0 I’m not going to mail it in and just run around, but I won’t get careless either. The wins are important and we will get it however we can.

“This is going to be a step-up fight for me because Lopez is coming off a huge win and has a lot of confidence. I’ve gotten better in my last three training camps dictating the pace and going forward. I want to be a multi-dimensional fighter.

“I just turned 22 years old last month and I’m still developing. I know I’m known for putting on clinics and I know that inner beast is in me.

“I won’t give him a chance to take advantage of what will make him successful. I’m not a slow starter, but I’ll take my time to figure out what I need to do to get my opponent out of there.”

LUIS ALBERTO LOPEZ:
“I wasn’t supposed to win my last fight and it was in America so I’m coming in with a lot of confidence. I know now I can go outside of my country and my comfort zone. I believe in myself and know I can do it.

“I would call my opponent a good boxer without much power. We respect Villa’s record but he hasn’t fought anyone.

“My nickname is ‘venado’ which means deer in Spanish. I got it from my speed in soccer growing up.

“Most of my opponents have been too slow for me. I can move so I’m looking forward to being in there with someone with speed. I can change up strategies depending on what he shows.

“I was 19 years old when I started and had only 12 or 15 fights in the amateurs and turned pro after only one year. I have boxing in my blood and fought 2,000 fights on the street, and most of those I won.”

MICHAEL DUTCHOVER:
“You won’t believe how excited I am right now. This is my TV debut and I’m actually very calm and just ready to go.

“I’m not worried about the last-minute change in opponents. I know he’s a tall southpaw, but that doesn’t worry me. It’s nothing I haven’t seen before.

“I’ve sparred with world champions and some other southpaws in the past like Jessie Magdaleno. We’ve done some mitt work from the left stance and we’ll be ready for whatever my opponent brings. I’m going to have to use my angles against a taller fighter.

“I believe my ring generalship and my ring IQ is going to win out over an inexperienced fighter.

“My older brother Junior Dutchover has always pushed me and always says, ‘Someday that is going to be you on TV.’ And here we are and it’s actually happening tomorrow night.

“I had a good amateur career and my progression as a pro is right where I want it to be. This is the biggest opportunity of my career and I need to take advantage of it.

“Ruben Villa and I are very close friends and we go way back in the amateurs. We went 1-1 and I was 13 or 14 at the time. I also fought Devin Haney also in the amateurs.”

ROSEKIE CRISTOBAL
“I took this fight on short notice because it was the biggest chance I’ve ever been given. I have been in the gym, working out at Freddie Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Hollywood. I have sparred with Ivan Baranchyk and other top guys. I’m ready to go.

“My style is aggressive and technical – it depends on my opponent. I just want to give a good performance.”

SAUL SANCHEZ
“This is my first time on national TV and I’m excited. I’m ready to give everyone a show. I’m a come forward fighter and exciting to watch.

“I haven’t fought since I broke my left pinky during round six of my last fight against Luis Saavedra in October. I didn’t have surgery and just put it in a splint. I felt a little pain when I first started hitting the bag.

“I’m quiet outside of the ring but once I get in the ring I let it fly. That’s why they call me ‘The Beast.’

BRANDON BENITEZ
“I’ve been mostly fighting in Venezuela so I know a lot of people may not know me. This is my opportunity to show my skills. I’m more of a skilled boxer but at the same time I can fight on the inside and be aggressive.

“I’m so happy to be here and appreciate the opportunity to fight. It really is a dream come true.

“I’ve studied my opponent a little bit and he looks like a strong fighter who likes to crash in the ring, and we look forward to that. But I want to box.”

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 79 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

NEW YORK – April 23, 2019 – Undefeated featherweight prospect Ruben Villa will face once-beaten and top-15 ranked contender Luis Alberto Lopez in the main event of ShoBox: The New Generation on Friday, May 10 live on SHOWTIME at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT from Omega Products International in Corona, Calif.

The 22-year-old Villa (15-0, 5 KOs) returns in a 10-round bout for his second consecutive test on the prospect developmental series after dispatching then-unbeaten Ruben Cervera in the first ShoBox telecast of 2019. The two-time National Golden Gloves Amateur Champion and highly touted prospect Villa will take on the Mexican Lopez (17-1, 8 KOs), who is coming off an upset victory over Ray Ximenez in his U.S. debut in February.

In the co-feature, fast-rising 21-year-old Texan Michael Dutchover (12-0, 9 KOs) will take on fellow undefeated prospect and former Chilean National Champion Ramon Mascarena Jr. (10-0, 5 KOs) in an eight-round contest. In the opening bout of the tripleheader that features six fighters with a combined two losses, undefeated bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez (11-0, 6 KOs) battles Mexican Brandon Leon Benitez (14-1, 6 KOs).

Tickets for the event, which is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing, are priced at $125, $75 and $60 and can be purchased online at www.thompsonboxing.com or by calling 714-935-0900.

“This ShoBox show brings back former amateur standout Ruben Villa in his toughest test to date as he continues his quest to turn from prospect to contender,” said Gordon Hall, Executive Producer of ShoBox: The New Generation. “We get to see for the first time unbeaten Michael Dutchover, who went 130-17 in the amateurs, and now faces his first unbeaten opponent. In the opener, we have ShoBox newcomer and unbeaten Saul Sanchez who will try to stand out against a once beaten opponent. All three top amateurs, top pro prospects and looking to make a name for themselves as must see fighter. Only time will tell.”

“I am very excited for Ruben [Villa] and Michael {Dutchover],” said Artie Pelullo, President and CEO, Banner Promotions. Ruben is headlining the May 10 ShoBox in just his second time on the network. There is a lot of pressure on this 22-year-old, as he is expected to achieve and produce great things due to his amateur background. Michael is the diamond in the rough. Also an amateur standout who has power in either hand, he is looking for this SHOWTIME event to be his coming out party. The best thing I can say about Ruben and Michael is that there’s a lot of pressure on these two young men to perform at the highest level, and I believe they are absolutely up for it and they look forward to prove that they can make a mark in their respective weight classes. The pressure doesn’t seem to bother them.”

“This is our 19th anniversary and what better way to celebrate it than with three of our top prospects fighting on ShoBox,” said Ken Thompson, President, Thompson Boxing. “It will be a real pleasure to put on a heck of a show alongside our friend Artie Pelullo as we witness Ruben [Villa], Michael [Dutchover] and Saul [Sanchez] take huge steps towards stardom.”

Villa, who started boxing when he was just five years old, compiled an impressive 166-17 record as an amateur. The Salinas, Calif. native was a two-time Junior Olympic National Champion and the 2014 and 2015 National Golden Gloves Champion. He owns impressive amateur victories over Shakur Stevenson, Davin Haney and Gary Antonio Russell.

Villa has registered 15 consecutive professional victories since turning pro in 2016 shortly after the Olympic Trials, including a dominating unanimous decision over Cervera in hisShoBox debut in January. A legitimate prospect, Villa hopes to continue his rapid ascension in the featherweight ranks with an impressive showing against Lopez.

“I am very excited to get the opportunity to headline on ShoBox after being the co-feature earlier this year,” said Villa. “I have been working really hard and getting good sparring in Riverside. My opponent is 17-1, and he has won some regional titles. He is no stick in the mud. I know he comes forward and that should make for an exciting fight. I am looking to put on a great performance because I know a win will open doors for bigger fights.”

Lopez, a native of Mexicali, Mexico, is coming off the biggest win of his career. In his U.S. debut and first fight outside of Mexico, Lopez won a technical decision over prospect Ray Ximenez to pick up the vacant WBO International Featherweight title. Ranked the No. 11 featherweight in the world by the WBO, the 21-year-old Lopez has won his last five bouts since suffering his only defeat as a pro to Abraham Montoya in 2018.

“I have a belt for a reason and I’m going to defend it proudly on May 10,” said Lopez. “I know Ruben Villa is regarded as a top prospect, but I know I’m better than him and I’m planning to show the world on May 10th.”

The 21-year-old Dutchover, from Midland, Texas, began boxing when he was eight years old compiling a notable amateur record. He was a runner-up at the 2016 National Golden Gloves and a Bronze Medalist in the 2016 Olympic qualifiers. Turning pro in 2016 at the age of 18, Dutchover has won his first 12 professional fights, including knockouts in his last four bouts.

“I’m very excited, I’ve been working for this opportunity all my life,” said Dutchover, who now trains in Los Angeles under the tutelage of Danny Zamora. “I know my opponent is tough and durable. Being on ShoBox is a great opportunity and it is the next steppingstone to reach my ultimate goal, and that is to become world champion.”

Chilean-born Mascarena, who currently resides in Tijuana, Mexico and trains in San Diego, Calif., turned pro in 2017 and has compiled a perfect record through his first ten contests-all within just 12 months. Fighting exclusively in his home country, Mascarena will finally be able to make his U.S. debut after he had a fight fall through in late 2018 and a second fight cancelled in February. Mascarena, who has fought mostly at 140 pounds, has not fought since his unanimous decision victory over Hector Medina 10 months ago.

“I’ve been in top share for a while now, I was set to fight in February but my fight got cancelled,” said the 25-year-old Mascarena. “I come from a family of boxers and we take the sweet science very seriously. On May 10, I will not only be fighting to make a good impression in my U.S. debut, I will be fighting for my family and my entire country. I will make them proud.”

The 21-year-old Sanchez, of Encino, Calif., began boxing when he was eight and compiled an amateur record of 90-18 before turning pro at 19 years old. Fighting exclusively in his home state of California, Sanchez has built up an 11-0 record under famed trainer Joel Diaz. The brother of featherweight prospect Emilio Sanchez, Saul is coming off a majority decision over Luis Fernando Saavedra but faces a stiff step-up in competition against Benitez.

“I’ve always dreamed of having an opportunity like this,” said Sanchez. “To fight on national television against a tough guy like Benitez. I know this fight will not be easy, but I’m ready. I will shine on May 10.”

Benitez, from Queretaro, Mexico, has stayed busy in late 2018 and early 2019, fighting four times in a span of six months. The 21-year-old, who fought 186 times as an amateur, is the lone blemish on featherweight prospect Chaise Nelson’s resume. Benitez has won five fights in a row since the only loss of his career, which came to then 10-0 and current 20-0 Mexican Irving Turrubiartes.

“I’m young and hungry and I know Saul Sanchez is a great opponent for me, but I’m not concerned about him,” said Benitez. “I don’t think he does anything special in the ring. I do, I’m confident I will win. I’m going for the KO.”

Barry Tompkins will call the ShoBox action from ringside with Steve Farhood and former world champion Raul Marquez serving as expert analysts. The executive producer is Gordon Hall with Richard Gaughan producing and Chuck McKean directing.

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

About ShoBox: The New Generation
Since its inception in July 2001, the critically acclaimed SHOWTIME boxing series, ShoBox: The New Generation has featured young talent matched tough. The ShoBox philosophy is to televise exciting, crowd-pleasing and competitive matches while providing a proving ground for willing prospects determined to fight for a world title. Some of the growing list of the 79 fighters who have appeared on ShoBox and advanced to garner world titles includes: Errol Spence Jr., Andre Ward, Deontay Wilder, Erislandy Lara, Shawn Porter, Gary Russell Jr., Lamont Peterson, Guillermo Rigondeaux, Nonito Donaire, Devon Alexander, Carl Froch, Robert Guerrero, Timothy Bradley, Jessie Vargas, Juan Manuel Lopez, Chad Dawson, Paulie Malignaggi, Ricky Hatton, Kelly Pavlik, Paul Williams and more.

ORANGE, Calif. (Dec. 31, 2018) – Thompson Boxing Promotions recorded another successful year, punctuated by Danny Roman’s successful three-fight reign as WBA super bantamweight champion. The Southern California-based promoter also saw profound advancement off its unbeaten blue-chip prospects – featherweight Ruben Villa and junior lightweight Michael Dutchover.

Additionally, featherweight Erick Ituarte entered the ranks of contender status with his No. 5 position in the WBO rankings. Meanwhile, undefeated bantamweight prospect Saul Sanchez firmly established himself as a rising talent in one of boxing’s most fast-paced divisions.

DANNY ‘Baby Face Assassin’ ROMAN

On the year, Roman (26-2-1, 10 KOs), 28, showcased his world class talent in three successful WBA title defenses. The first occurred in February against Ryo Matsumoto in Japan – the country where Roman claimed his current hardware in knockout fashion over young champion Shun Kubo last September.

After his points win against Matsumoto in Tokyo, Roman, a Los Angeles native, returned stateside in June for a scrap against No. 1 challenger Moises Flores. Roman, fighting from the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys posh training facility in Frisco, Tex., outclassed the overmatched Flores to the tune of a unanimous decision and eyed a unification fight for his next outing.

That opportunity never surfaced, but in October, Roman climbed the ropes a third time to knockout Englishman Gavin McDonnell in the tenth round from the Wintrust Arena in Chicago. The fight was streamed live on DAZN, the streaming service giant that made its U.S. debut in the fall.

WATCH highlights here.

Roman is promoted by Thompson Boxing and Matchroom Boxing.

RUBEN ‘RV4’ VILLA and MICHAEL DUTCHOVER

Villa (14-0, 5 KOs) and Dutchover (12-0, 9 KOs) both celebrated their twenty-first birthdays in 2018. While young, both took major strides in their development. Villa scored five wins, one of which netted him the vacant WBO Youth title. The southpaw began headlining shows this year – two coming from his hometown of Salinas, Calif.

Villa makes his national television debut on Jan. 11, 2019 against Ruben Cervera televised on Showtime.

For Dutchover, the fan-friendly power puncher from Midland, Tex., brought five wins in 2018 to his resume with the last four coming by way of knockout.

Dutchover’s most emphatic win to date came during a headlining event on July 20, 2018. Dutchover captivated a sold-out crowd with an electrifying one-punch knockout of Sergio Ramirez from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif. The close out punch, a right hand on Ramirez’s chin, occurred at the :43 mark of the second.

WATCH it here.

Villa and Dutchover are promoted by Thompson Boxing and Banner Promotions.

ERICK ‘All American Boy’ ITUARTE

Ituarte (20-1-1, 3 KOs), 24, a professional since 2011, arrived on the national scene this year with his top five ranking in the WBO standings. The featherweight from Los Angeles is a hard-nosed competitor with championship aspirations for 2019.

SAUL ‘The Beast’ SANCHEZ

Sanchez (11-0, 6 KOs), 21, is developing into a future threat in the bantamweight division as evidenced by his fast start and burgeoning skill set. The Los Angeles native has all the tools to make a name for himself in the lower weight classes.

Thompson Boxing will release its 2019 schedule in the next few weeks.

For more information, please visit ThompsonBoxing.com.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check our Facebook Page, watch our YouTube channel on Thompson Boxing TV, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @ThompsonBoxing.

PHILADELPHIA, PENN. / ORANGE, Calif. (Nov. 16, 2018) – Top prospect Michael Dutchover (11-0, 8 KOs) weighed in successfully at Thursdays weigh in, measuring 134 lbs., while veteran Ruben Tamayo (25-11-4, 18 KOs) came in at the identical weight.

Dutchover vs. Tamayo comprises the 8-round “Locked n’ Loaded” main event of Thompson Boxing’s season finale tonight, Nov. 16, from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Dutchover, who turned 21 on Thursday, will look for his fifth win on the year.

“The only thing I want as a birthday present is another win,” said Dutchover, who is co-promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. “I’m expecting a tough fight, but I’ve prepared well and I’m ready to put on a show just like I always do.”

All fights will be live streamed on TB Presents: Locked n’ Loaded via our Facebook page.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Josesito Lopez providing expert, color commentary.

The Doubletree Hotel is located at 222 N. Vineyard Ave., Ontario, CA 91764 and can be reached at 909-937-0900.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

PHILADELPHIA, PENN. / ORANGE, Calif. (Oct. 29, 2018) – The fast-rising Michael Dutchover (11-0, 8 KOs), with four solid wins on the year, aims to close out 2018 with another victory on Friday, Nov. 16, from the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario, Calif.

Dutchover, who will turn 21 the day before the event, will fight veteran and former world title challenger Daulis Prescott (31-9, 24 KOs) in the 8-round main event of Thompson Boxing’s “Locked n’ Loaded” season finale.

Dutchover, a junior lightweight fighting out of Midland, Tex., has had a breakout year of sorts with his recent display of power punching. His last three wins have come by way of knockout, including a sensational second round, one-punch destruction of Sergio Martinez in July.

Prior to that, the West Texas warrior, who trains in Los Angeles, removed Mike Fowler in three rounds. Two months ago in September, Dutchover stopped Bergman Aguilar in the fifth.

Dutchover, however, understands the Colombian-born Prescott poses a far more serious challenge than any other foe he has faced this year, or in his young career.

“This year was all about elevating my level of competition,” said Dutchover, who is promoted by industry veterans Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing .”Prescott is battle tested and will be ready to fight. I love a challenge and I’m embracing it.”

Dutchover’s confidence is a direct result of the high-level sparring he receives on a routine basis from the many top-notch gyms in the Los Angeles area.

“I’ve been in with some of the top names in the sport and they all teach me something different,” Dutchover said. “Danny Roman, Oscar Valdez and Jessie Magdaleno are a few that come to mind. They are incredible boxers and good people too. I’m fortunate to have met them this early in my career.”

All fights will be live streamed on via our Facebook page.

The livestream starts at 8:00 p.m. PT / 11:00 p.m. ET with Beto Duran as the blow-by-blow announcer and Josesito Lopez providing expert, color commentary.

For regular updates on our fighters, events, and promotions, please check Banner Promotions Facebook Page , and follow us on Instagram and Twitter @BannerBoxing

Photo by Carlos Baeza / Thompson Boxing