LOS ANGELES—Dec. 10, 2015 — Former boxer Oscar De La Hoya accepted the Shining Star Honoree Award onstage during Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles at its Annual Wishing Well Winter Gala at The Beverly Hilton Hotel yesterday, Dec. 9, in Beverly Hills, California.

As a friend of Make-A-Wish for 15 years, De La Hoya has experienced first-hand the power of granting a wish. For children facing life-threatening medical challenges, a wish inspires them to fight harder, persevere and gather the strength to get better.

“Whether a person is fighting an opponent in the ring or a major health challenge, strength, discipline and focus are the key elements for success and recovery,” said De La Hoya. “I am honored to provide that connection for children and help them find their inner power to overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing.”

Link to video of De La Hoya at last night’s gala accepting his award is available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDreglfrYxU&feature=youtu.be

Images of De La Hoya at last night’s Make-A-Wish Greater Los Angeles event are available for download here: https://mercuryllc.box.com/ODLH-MakeAWishLA

LOS ANGELES (Dec. 4, 2015) – A sold-out LA FIGHT CLUB had all the fans cheering on some of their favorite fighters tonight at the Belasco Theater with the headlining debut of undefeated power-puncher, Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (11-0, 10 KOs). Also in attendance enjoying the night’s festivities was Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, newly crowned WBC Silver Featherweight Champion, Ronny Rios, and Golden Boy Promotions fighters, Julian “El Camaron” Ramirez, Roy “Pit Bull” Tapia, Jesus Soto Karass, and Johnathan Navarro. Noe Ramirez from the Boston Red Sox and actor and comedian Johnny Skourtis were also in attendance cheering on some of Los Angeles’ most talented up-and-coming fighters.

Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (12-0, 11 KOs) thrilled in an exciting eight-round super featherweight main event fight against the tough Alejandro Ochoa (7-10-2, 1 KOs) of Bell Gardens, Calif. The two fighters clashed in the center of the ring, exchanging combinations from the opening bell. Gonzalez was able to land hard shots that stunned Ochoa in the first round, but the brave Ochoa recovered and landed some hard shots of his own. Midway through the second round, Gonzalez caught Ochoa with a clean uppercut that sent Ochoa to the canvas. Ochoa was able to meet the count and tried to finish the round, but after several shots from Gonzalez, the referee stepped in to end the fight. “Chimpa” continues his knockout streak with a second-round technical knockout victory.

“ I had been training hard and focusing on landing shots like that uppercut that put him down. I knew the body shots I landed early in the fight had a lot of effect and I saw him breathing out of his mouth. The body shots set up my uppercut,” said Gonzalez.

“I prepared for this fight as I would any other fight despite his reputation for having a lot of power. I don’t think his punches bothered me as much as the referee thought and I would have liked to continue, but I will learn from my mistakes and keep improving,” said Ochoa.

In the co-main event of the evening, Rosemead, Calif. transplant Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete (12-0, 5 KOs) met Ernesto Guerrero (17-17, 1 KOs) of Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico in an eight-round super bantamweight fight live on Estrella TV. Negrete controlled the action throughout the fight, landing quick combinations and displaying excellent speed. Negrete landed a hard body shot in the third round that sent Guerrero to the canvas. Guerrero answered the count but looked very hurt by the body shot prompting the referee to call a halt to the bout awarding Negrete a third-round technical knockout.

“I had been studying for another opponent but due to a last minute change, I had to come in and figure out a whole new opponent. My trainer deserves a lot of credit because we prepared for another fighter but we were still able to come up with a plan and execute it. It’s great to end 2015 on such a high note and I can’t wait to start 2016 with the same momentum,” said Negrete.

Opening the live broadcast on Estrella TV, Ivan “Striker” Delgado (8-0-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles took on Luis “Lichito” Lizarraga Jr. (5-7-1, 2 KOs) of Meridad, Yucatan, Mexico in a six-round lightweight bout. “Striker” Delgado came out sharp landing crisp, hard combinations to the head and body of Lizarraga Jr. Throughout the fight, Delgado was able to consistently land his left hook and right hand to the head of Lizarraga Jr. Despite a valiant effort from Lizarraga Jr., Delgado dominated the action and was awarded a unanimous decision victory.

“I wanted to show fans that I can box and I can counterpunch as well. I have been training hard and am looking forward to starting 2016 off strong after this victory,” said Delgado.

Nick Arce (6-0, 6 KOs) of Los Angeles kept his undefeated record intact in a scheduled six-round super featherweight bout against Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico’s Ali Gonzalez (6-7-1, 1 KOs). Cheered on by his legion of fans from LA’s Westside Boxing Gym, Arce caught Gonzalez with a right hand to the chin early on in the first round, dropping him to the canvas. Gonzalez met the count and was able to survive the round. The second round was a tactical affair with both men circling and looking for openings. After suffering an injury in a clinch with Arce, Gonzalez dropped to the canvas and was unable to continue, giving Arce a win by second round technical knockout.

“I wasn’t expecting to win this way. I knew that my opponent was a tough fighter, and I would have to close the distance with my reach. I’m looking forward to taking some time off and enjoying it with my family after this win,” said Arce.

Continuing the Ring TV’s live stream, rising star Emilio Sanchez (11-0, 8 KOs) of Los Angeles faced Juan “Juanito” Hernandez (4-2, 1 KOs) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico in a six-round super bantamweight fight. The two fighters traded shots in the middle of the ring from the opening bell. With a minute left to go in the first round, Sanchez caught Hernandez in between a combination with a monster left hook that sent Hernandez tumbling to the canvas. Hernandez attempted to meet the count, but the referee called a halt to the bout. Sanchez was declared the winner via first round technical knockout, adding another knockout victory to his knockout-heavy resume.

“I had been working on strength training and really liked how it impacted me this fight. I was able to break him down bit by bit with my body shots and then eventually catch him with my hook,” said Sanchez.

Opening up the Ring TV’s live stream, San Antonio’s Joshua Franco (3-0, 2 KO’s) met Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico’s Leonardo Reyes (3-9-1, 1 KOs) in a six-round super flyweight match. Franco came out aggressively, dropping Reyes in the first round. Rising to meet the count, Reyes attempted to finish the round but was overwhelmed by Franco who landed a sustained barrage of punches forcing the referee to stop the fight, awarding Franco the win by first round technical knockout

“I was conditioned and ready to fight a longer fight. Our strategy was to break him down, but it came sooner than expected and I’m thrilled to have gotten the win. He came out swinging but I have always been able to keep my composure and stick to the game plan and it worked out great” said Franco.

LA FIGHT CLUB: Gonzalez vs. Ochoa was an eight-round super featherweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout began at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV Boxeo Estelar broadcast aired live on Friday, December 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT., and was simultaneously streamed live on estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios: youtube.com/FenomenoStudios. The Ring TV live stream began at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m.

LA FIGHT CLUB is a monthly boxing series that showcases the brightest stars in the sport and present these exciting matchups in a nightclub atmosphere with an original setup. The boxing ring is set on the main floor of the Belasco Theater with on-camera standing room for fans in front of the ring similar to a concert pit, as well as reserved balcony and floor seats. Los Angeles’ own DJ Ray of Big Boy’s Neighborhood spins music during the fights and fans are able to dance and mingle with the fighters when the venue converts into a night club, in a VIP experience not matched by any promoter in the industry.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, http://www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB #BoxeoEstelar

According to Dan Ran Rafael of espn.com, Oscar De La Hoya had some parting words for Floyd Mayweather in this month’s Playboy Magazine.

“You did it. You made it to the 49-0 mark, a milestone that you like to say only the great Rocky Marciano reached but that was actually achieved by others, including my idol Julio Cesar Chavez — but who’s counting,” De La Hoya wrote. “And now you’re retiring. Again. (The first time was after our fight in 2007.) This time you say it’s for real. You’re serious about hanging up the gloves. On to bigger and better things. So I’m writing to you today to wish you a fond farewell. Truth be told, I’m not unhappy to see you retire. Neither are a lot of boxing fans. Scratch that. MOST boxing fans. Why? Because the fight game will be a better one without you in it.”

“Let’s face it: You were boring,” De La Hoya wrote. “Just take a look at your most recent performance, your last hurrah in the ring, a 12-round decision against Andre Berto. How to describe it? A bust? A disaster? A snooze fest? An affair so one-sided that on one judge’s card Berto didn’t win a single round? Everyone in boxing knew Berto didn’t have a chance. I think more people watched ‘Family Guy’ reruns that night than tuned in to that pay-per-view bout. But I didn’t mind shelling out $75 for the HD broadcast. In fact it’s been a great investment. When my kids have trouble falling asleep, I don’t have to read to them anymore. I just play them your Berto fight. They don’t make it past round three.”

“Another reason boxing is better off without you: You were afraid. Afraid of taking chances. Afraid of risk. A perfect example is your greatest ‘triumph,’ the long-awaited record-breaking fight between you and Manny Pacquiao,” De La Hoya wrote, referring to the May 2 fight that set every revenue record in boxing. “Nearly 4.5 million buys! More than $400 million in revenue! Headlines worldwide! How can that be bad for boxing? Because you lied. You promised action and entertainment and a battle for the ages, and you delivered none of the above. The problem is, that’s precisely how you want it.

“You should have fought Pacquiao five years ago, not five months ago. That, however, would have been too dangerous. Too risky. You’ve made a career out of being cautious. You won’t get in the ring unless you have an edge. Sure, you fought some big names. But they were past their prime. Hell, even when we fought in 2007 — and I barely lost a split decision — I was at the tail end of my career. Then later you took on Mexican megastar Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez, but he was too young and had to drop too much weight.”

“I got into this business to take chances. I took on all comers in their prime,” he wrote. “The evidence? I lost. Six times.”

“The mantra of my firm Golden Boy Promotions is simple: the best taking on the best. It’s too bad you didn’t do the same,” De La Hoya wrote. “You took the easy way out. When you weren’t dancing around fading stars, you were beating up on outclassed opponents. A lot of your opponents were above-average fighters, but they weren’t your caliber. You’re a very talented fighter, the best defensive fighter of our generation. But what good is talent if you don’t test it?

“Muhammad Ali did. Sugar Ray Leonard did. You? Not a chance. You spent 2000 to 2010 facing forgettable opening acts like Victoriano Sosa, Phillip N’dou, DeMarcus Corley, Henry Bruseles and Sharmba Mitchell. There were guys out there — tough scary opponents like Antonio Margarito and Paul Williams — but you ran from them. Were you ever on the track team in high school? You would have been a star.

“Boxing will also be a better place without the Mouth. Your mouth, to be precise, the one that created ‘Money’ Mayweather. I know you needed that Money Mayweather persona. Before he and Golden Boy Promotions came along, nobody watched your fights. You couldn’t even sell out your hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The Mouth made you money. More money than you could spend in a lifetime. (Wait, I’ve seen those episodes of 24/7. You probably will spend it all.) But the Mouth doesn’t have a place in boxing; save it for the WWE. Unless you’re someone like Ali, whose fights were as scintillating as his banter, the all-talk, no-entertainment model cheapens our sport. Boxers should speak with their fists and with their hearts. They don’t have to say anything to prove themselves. You’re going to have a legacy. You’ll be remembered as the guy who made the most money. As for your fights? We’ve already forgotten them.”

You’re moving on to a new phase of life now, a second act,” De La Hoya wrote. “I’m sure it will be nice not to have to train year-round. … But I’m wondering what you’re going to do. You have a lot of time and, at the moment, a lot of money. Maybe you’ll put your true skills to work and open a used-car dealership or run a circus. Or maybe you’ll wind up back on ‘Dancing With the Stars.’ It’s a job that’s safe, pays well and lets you run around on stage. Something you’ve been doing for most of your career.”

By Norm Frauenheim

Floyd Mayweather Jr. must love all the attention he’s getting this week. He’s retired – or so he says – and yet he’s still generating the kind of controversy that would inevitably erupt during the week before one of his fights. Oscar De La Hoya and Adrien Broner have gone Ronda Rousey on him.

It’s hard to figure, other than to say it’s just another chapter in social media’s voracious need for content. Say what you want about Mayweather, but he is TBE at using and maintaining his prominence in social-media.

His mastery of all the digital platforms propelled him to the GDP-like purse he collected for the pay-per-view blockbuster in a victory over Manny Pacquiao that will be remembered more for the number of tweets than the number of punches.

Broner’s profane rant on YouTube isn’t exactly a surprise. It’s also a redundancy to use profane and rant next to Broner’s name. Sorry for that. Still, it’s almost comical to see Broner — angry at Mayweather’s criticism of his October victory over Khabib Allakhverdiev — go off on his ex-hero. Broner did everything but flush TMT T-shirts and TBE caps down the same toilet that was a receptacle for some of his cash a few years ago. Maybe, that’s the sequel.

The surprise was De La Hoya’s letter in the latest issue of Playboy. It was honest. It was forthright. It was funny. De La Hoya summed up what so many are thinking: The business is better off without Mayweather. But why now? Why publish the dismissive farewell to Mayweather at the very time De La Hoya is promoting a Canelo Alvarez-Miguel Cotto on Nov. 21 at Las Vegas’ Mandalay Bay.

De La Hoya has a fight that has the potential to say a lot more to Mayweather than any letter in Playboy could ever say. It’s a real chance for the business to get beyond the deflating hangover that still lingers from the public dismay over Mayweather-Pacquiao. Perhaps, the timing is just a result of the magazine’s publishing schedule. Deadlines can do things that writers don’t intend. It would have bee nice if De La Hoya had simply written: Mayweather? Who’s he? But that would not have been enough for Playboy, which is seeking a different kind of content these days. The magazine announced it wouldn’t publish nude photos anymore. About 10 days before Canelo-Cotto, however, I’d prefer a centerfold to De La Hoya’s letter.

Once the headlines subside, perhaps the business will be better for De La Hoya’s rhetorical swipe at his old rival. And, maybe, this is the opening salvo in a promotional rivalry that could evolve into the modern version of Bob Arum-versus-Don King. Arum-King was as entertaining and intense as anything that happened within the ring. It helped fuel the 1980s, one of the game’s best eras.

For now, however, I can only think that Mayweather has won another one. Inside and outside the ropes, he has always been able to dictate pace, style and timing. He’s doing it again. We’re talking about him when we should be talking about Canelo-Cotto.

On the heels of one of the most anticipated nights in boxing this year, Roc Nation Sports’ founder JAY Z and Golden Boy Promotions’ chairman and CEO Oscar De Lay Hoya have entered into a friendly wager with one another staking claim that their respective boxer will capture the win when Miguel Cotto faces Canelo Alvarez in a middleweight world championship mega-fight on Nov. 21 at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas presented live on HBO Pay-Per-View. The bet started taking shape when both co-promotors visited their boxers’ camps prior to fight week, boasting confidently about their fighters’ ability to come out victorious on Nov. 21. The terms were inevitably set – JAY Z and Oscar decided to place a $100,000 bet with the winner’s earnings going towards their philanthropic endeavors. If Cotto and JAY Z come out on top, Oscar will donate $100,000 to the Shawn Carter Foundation. In similar fashion, if Canelo beats Cotto, JAY Z will donate $100,000 to Oscar’s efforts at the White Memorial Medical Center’s cancer unit. Now all sights are set on Nov. 21, when the showdown between Cotto and Canelo will determine who will be the middleweight champion of the world and the outcome of JAY Z’s and Oscar’s bet.

LOS ANGELES (Nov. 2, 2015) Olympic gold medalist and 10-time world champion in six weight divisions Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, presented new-state-of-the-art boxing equipment valued at thousands of dollars to the youth of Grampa’s Boxing Gym on Friday, Oct. 30, to encourage the youth to continue in their training and lead positive lives away from gang activity and violence.

Also at the giveaway, De La Hoya honored California Municipal Finance Authority as the 2015 Corporate Partner of the Year for his namesake foundation in recognition of their commitment to serving youth in Southern California.

“One of our goals is to invest in the youth of the community so we are happy to contribute and support the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation in its mission and participate by acting locally,” said Bob Adams, board member for the California Municipal Finance Authority. “The best way to make our communities stronger is to invest in the youth and their future.”

This was the third annual boxing equipment giveaway the Oscar De La Hoya Foundation has hosted for after-school youth programs. The Foundation, with the support of its corporate partner of the year California Municipal Finance Authority and Everlast, is donating new, state-of-the-art boxing equipment to five gyms in Southern California that serve youth in economically disadvantaged communities plagued by gang and drug violence. The equipment will help these local gyms to provide youth in their communities with an opportunity to engage in boxing as an after-school program alternative to gang activities. Recipients of the Foundation’s boxing equipment donations this giving season include Southern California-based boxing gyms Grampa’s Boxing Gym in Westminster, Azusa Boxing Gym in Azusa, Westside Boxing Club in Los Angeles, Azteca Boxing Club in Bell and Lugo Fitness Center in Cudahy.

In 1995, De La Hoya started his namesake Foundation to help improve the quality of life for those living in disadvantaged communities. The Oscar De La Hoya Foundation supports the Oscar De La Hoya Animo Charter High School, the Cecilia Gonzalez De La Hoya Cancer Center and the Oscar De La Hoya Labor and Delivery Center and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (both located at White Memorial Hospital in Los Angeles) as well as numerous after-school programs that help guide young people toward leading positive lives and away from the circumstances of gang violence, juvenile delinquency, and substance abuse.

LOS ANGELES (September 30, 2015) Just days ahead of his October 3 battle against Viktor “The Iceman” Postol (27-0, 11 KOs) for the vacant WBC World Super Lightweight Championship, Lucas “La Máquina” Matthysse (37-3, 34 KOs) hosted a Los Angeles media workout at The Rock Gym in Carson, Calif. on Wednesday, Sept. 30. He was joined by his promoter, the Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya along with co-main event fighter and former three-division world champion Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto (65-8-2, 35 KOs) of Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico; and fighters featured on the non-televised undercard including former Lightweight World Title contender Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta (28-1-2, 16 KOs) and Los Angeles fan-favorite Nick Arce (4-0, 4 KOs).

In the co-main event on Oct. 3, Soto will take on undefeated contender Antonio “Relentless” Orozco (22-0, 15 KOs) of San Diego, Calif. in a career defining 10-round super lightweight showdown.

Also on Oct. 3, undercard fighter Arce is scheduled to fight in a six-round featherweight bout against Juan “Juanito” Hernandez (3-0) of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. In addition,Gesta will face three-time world title challenger Martin “El Brochas” Honorio (32-9-1, 16 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico, in a classic Philippines vs. Mexico 10-round lightweight bout.

Here is what the fighters and their promoter had mmto say about their upcoming fights on Oct. 3 just days before the big event:

Lucas “La Máquina” Matthysse, Former Interim WBC Super Lightweight World Champion:

“My inspiration is to be a world champion, to fight the best fights. That’s inspiration for me.

“I have wanted to be a world champion since I was a little boy and Saturday night I will have the chance to make this dream come true.

“I am very happy to be fighting in the Los Angeles area for this fight. It is a great honor for me to have the support of the Latin people here in the United States, coming all the way from Argentina.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions:

“Viktor Postol is a lanky, tall fighter with some great knock outs under his belt and is being trained by Freddie Roach, which I know will get him in great shape. Matthysse with have his hands full with Postol.

“After the 3rd, 4th round, I can see it being a brawl. I can see Lucas Matthysse having to chase down Postol and do some damage. When have you ever seen a boring Lucas Matthysse fight? It’s going to be a fun, action-packed fight.”

HUMBERTO “LA ZORRITA” SOTO, Former Three-Division World Champion:

“It’s going to be a good fight, youth against experience. I think the people who see this fight are going to be the real winners.

“Nothing personal against Antonio Orozco, but I do believe experience will beat youth on Saturday.

“This fight will steal the show because when you put two Mexicans in a ring, they come to fight.”

MERCITO “NO MERCY” GESTA, Former World Title Contender:

“Right now, I know I’m in good shape and 100 percent healthy, so expect a really good fight because Martin Honorio pushes hard and has good form. It’s going to be a good fight.

“I’m training hard for Saturday night and am really proud to represent my country of the Philippines.”

NICK ARCE, Top Featherweight Prospect:

“I’m staying focused, staying on my weight, ready for Friday and ultimately give a great show on Saturday at the StubHub Center.

“There’s a lot of great featherweights out there, and we’re just focusing on our careers. Slowly but surely so when we get to the top, we’ll see who’s there and take them out later on. Golden Boy is one of the great promotional businesses out here right now, and I’m honored to be on the team.”

Tickets for Matthysse vs. Postol are priced at $150, $75, $50 and $25, plus applicable taxes, fees and services charges, and on sale now. Tickets can be purchased at AXS.com, by phone at 888-9-AXS-TIX (888-929-7849), and at StubHub Center Box Office (Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. PT to 6 p.m. PT). VIP Suites are available by calling 877-604-8777. For more information on group discounts or VIP packages, call 877-234-8425.

Matthysse vs. Postol is a 12-round bout for the vacant WBC World Super Lightweight Championship presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Arano Box Promotions, Top Rank, Inc. and ELITE Boxing Promotion and is sponsored by Corona and Mexico – Live it To Believe It!. Doors open at 2:00pm PT and fight times will be announced soon. The HBO Boxing After Dark telecast begins at 10:15 p.m. live ET/tape-delayed PT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.elitboxclub.com, www.toprank.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.stubhubcenter.com; follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @TRBoxing, @HBOBoxing, @StubHubCenter, @MatthysseLucas, @ViktorPostol, @PuroOrozco; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TRBoxing, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing and www.facebook.com/StubHubCenter; and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @HBOBoxing. Follow the conversation using #MatthyssePostol.

LOS ANGELES (September 29, 2015) Golden Boy Promotions will open an intense fight weekend beginning with LA FIGHT CLUB on Friday, October 2 live on Boxeo Estelaron Estrella TV at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT at the historic Belasco Theater. LA FIGHT CLUB, featuring the next generation of rising boxing stars, kicks off the first of back-to-back fight nights in downtown Los Angeles, followed by the highly-anticipated Lucas Matthysse vs. Viktor Postol card at the StubHub Center on Saturday, October 3. Fans with tickets to the event will be joined by confirmed guests Oscar De La Hoya, Chairman and CEO of Golden Boy Promotions, Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner Bernard Hopkins, current IBF Bantamweight World Champion Randy Caballero and legendary boxer Erik “El Terrible” Morales.

In the main event of the evening, Matthysse’s training partner Patrick Teixeira (25-0, 21 KOs) will collide with Don Mouton (13-9-1, 11 KOs) in an exhilarating 10-round middleweight bout. The televised co-main event of the night will feature Brooklyn, New York brawler Zachary “Zungry” Ochoa (12-0, 5 KOs) squaring off against Alejandro “Soma” Rodriguez (24-18-1, 14 KOs) of Guadalajara, Mexico in an eight-round super lightweight fight, both the toughest match of each fighters’ career. Opening up the LA FIGHT CLUB telecast, Tijuana, Mexico native Antonio “Tony” Gutierrez (18-1-1, 8 KOs) is scheduled for a six-round featherweight against Victor “Sina” Fonseca. (9-5-1, 7 KOs) of San Diego, Calif.

Featured on The Ring TV live stream, Francisco Ochoa (2-0, 1 KO) of Los Angeles, will face newcomer Edgar Galvez (0-1) of Phoenix, Arizona in a four-round lightweight bout, and Los Angeles favorite Pablo Rubio Jr. (2-0, 2 KOs) is scheduled for a four-round super bantamweight fight against Adrian Rodriguez (1-7-1) of Guadalajara, Mexico. Joshua Franco (1-0) will trade punches with Tijuana, Mexico’s Saul “Bebe” Hernandez (5-7-1, 3 KOs) in a four-round super flyweight matchup; and a four-round clash of super lightweights will kick off the night as Abraham Lopez (1-1) of Rowland Heights, Calif. will take on Galveston, Texas native Andrew Gomez (0-2). Fights can be viewed via The RingTV’s Roku channel, www.ringtvlive.comand on The Ring TV’s YouTube channel. The live stream will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m. PT

LA FIGHT CLUB: Teixeira vs. Mouton is a 10-round middleweight bout and is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV Boxeo Estelar broadcast will air live on Friday, October 2 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT., and will also be simultaneously streaming live on estrellaTV.com and on YouTube via Fenomeno Studios: youtube.com/FenomenoStudios. The Ring TV live stream will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m.

Tickets, starting at $20 are available for purchase online at www.goldenboypromotions.com or by visiting the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page. For ticket information, email us at LAFightClub@goldenboypromotions.com.

The “Knockout Experience VIP Package” is also available for an additional $25 upgrade and includes VIP entrance, access to an exclusive lounge offering food and beverages for purchase; a meet and greet opportunity with fighters and celebrities attending the event, past guests have included Oscar De La Hoya, Kate Del Castillo, Mario Lopez, George Lopez, Lucas Matthysse, Randy Caballero and other stars have all made appearances in the past; an automatic entry into the LA FIGHT CLUB grand prize drawing, which can include but is not limited to: autograph gloves, picture in the ring, backstage access, tour of locker rooms, fighter ring walk, tickets to upcoming boxing events and additional merchandise and prizes.

LA FIGHT CLUB is a monthly boxing series featured on the first Friday of each month, with upcoming shows including Nov. 6 and Dec. 4. The series showcases the brightest stars in the sport and present these exciting matchups in a nightclub atmosphere with an original setup. The boxing ring is set on the main floor of the Belasco Theater with on-camera standing room for fans in front of the ring similar to a concert pit, as well as reserved balcony and floor seats. Los Angeles’ own DJ Ray of Big Boy’s Neighborhood spins music during the fights and fans are able to dance and mingle with the fighters when the venue converts into a night club, in a VIP experience not matched by any promoter in the industry.

Media interested in attending the October 2 installment of LA FIGHT CLUB must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are now closed. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing,www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, http://www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork,visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB #BoxeoEstelar.

LOS ANGELES (Sept. 24, 2015)-It was one year ago that Golden Boy Promotions Chairman and CEO Oscar De La Hoya, HBO Sports President Ken Hershman, and Mexican superstar boxer Canelo Álvarez (45-1-1, 32 KOs) hosted a press conference in Los Angeles to announce a major new agreement granting HBO Sports exclusive rights to televise Canelo’s fights in the U.S.

Canelo’s road to HBO was paved by his perseverance and desire to become one of boxing’s best. He has never shied away from fighting the toughest fighters in his quest for greatness, earning the respect of fans, media, and even his rivals. On May 9, 2015, Canelo made his first appearance on HBO Sports since announcing his exclusive deal with the network and secured an impressive victory over the dangerous James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland before a crowd of more than 31,000 screaming fans at Minute Maid Park in Houston. Canelo vs. Kirkland registered the highest viewership for an HBO World Championship Boxing event since 2006 generating an average of 2.1 million views for the live airing of the event.

“I am pleased to celebrate my first anniversary with HBO. HBO is my family, and I am glad to be home. Together, we will continue to make history. I look forward to celebrating many anniversaries together with all my family members at Golden Boy Promotions and HBO. I will continue producing the best possible fights for my fans and will blindly dedicate myself to my best performances every time,” Canelo Álvarez said.

“The fans absolutely love Canelo. They are loyal and are the most passionate fans of any fighter in the sport of boxing today. Canelo’s exciting fighting style keeps them coming back, and he works hard to not let them down, both inside and outside of the ring. HBO is the best network for boxing, hands down, so I knew it would be the right home for Canelo and the best way for his fans to see him in action,” said Oscar De La Hoya.

“HBO Sports is thrilled to be the U.S. television home of Canelo Alvarez,” said Ken Hershman, President of HBO Sports. “He is one of the sport’s brightest superstars and our platform is ideally suited to maximize all of his goals and dreams. At only 25 years old he has so many incredibly exciting chapters ahead of him. We at HBO are looking forward to being an integral part of what will be a historic career.”

Canelo is a knockout artist known for his tremendous power and durability against the toughest opponents in the ring who made his professional debut at 15-years-old and quickly became one of the most popular fighters in the sport. His fan base spread quickly in his home country of Mexico as his style captured and enthralled fans. His fan base exploded, crossing the border in to the U.S. and ultimately spreading around the world. Canelo’s good looks and charisma outside the ring attracted a legion of fans from around the world rooting for him every step of the way on his journey to the top.

A former world champion, Canelo is eager to once again hold a title and will get the opportunity again on Saturday, Nov. 21 when he faces reigning WBC, Ring Magazine and Lineal Middleweight World Champion Miguel Cotto in a classic Mexico vs. Puerto Rico rivalry battle. The event will take place at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will be produced and distributed live by HBO Pay-Per-View. The epic battle is being called by many the most anticipated fight of 2015 and will also mark Canelo’s first Pay-Per-View appearance since his exclusive agreement with HBO.

For Canelo, this is still only the beginning. The way he sees it, the best is yet to come and the fans will be able to watch him every step of the way on HBO.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.hbo.com/boxing, www.canelopromotions.com.mx; follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, @HBOBoxing; become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/SaulCaneloAlvarez, and www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing; and follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Canelo, and @HBOboxing.

About Golden Boy Promotions
Los Angeles-based Golden Boy Promotions was established in 2002 by 10-time world champion in six divisions Oscar De La Hoya, the first Hispanic to own a national boxing promotional company. Golden Boy Promotions is one of boxing’s most active and respected promoters, presenting shows in packed venues around the world and has worked with networks such as HBO, HBO Latino, Estrella TV, ESPN, TeleFutura, FOX Sports 1, FOX Deportes, Televisa and TV Azteca. In its 13-year existence, Golden Boy Promotions has promoted some of the biggest and highest grossing pay-per-view events in the history of the sport. In 2007, the company broke all boxing records with more than four million pay-per-view buys in a single year. Golden Boy Promotions also promoted the fight that formerly held the record for the highest grossing and most pay-per-view buys of all time: De La Hoya vs. Mayweather which generated 2.5 million buys and grossed over $120 million and Mayweather vs. Canelo which generated 2.2 million pay-per-view buys and grossed over $150 million in revenue. On May 9, 2015 before a crowd of more than 31,000 fans at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Canelo vs. Kirkland registered the highest viewership for an HBO World Championship Boxing event since 2006 generating an average of 2.1 million views for the live airing of the event. The company has also promoted other notable pay-per-view fights featuring fan favorites Bernard “The Alien” Hopkins, Juan Manuel “Dinamita” Marquez, Miguel Cotto, Marco “Baby Faced Assassin” Antonio Barrera, Erik “El Terrible” Morales and Sugar Shane Mosley.

LOS ANGELES (September 4, 2015) – The Estrella TV premiere of LA FIGHT CLUB on Boxeo Estellar brought out some of Los Angeles’ most popular stars including George Lopez, Kate Del Castillo, Enrique Castillo, Ellen K, Ponce De Leon; Golden Boy Promotions fighters USNBC Lightweight Champion Vyacheslav “Lion Heart” Shabranskyy, Julian “El Camaron” Ramirez, Carlos “The Solution” Morales, Emilio Sanchez, Roy “Pit Bull” Tapia, Oscar “El Jaguar” Negrete, Nick Arce; and “The Golden Boy” himself, Oscar De La Hoya, CEO and Chairman of Golden Boy Promotions, who hosted a special meet and greet with fans ahead of the televised broadcast.

The night was full of explosive action as Diego De La Hoya (12-0, 7 KOs) took on former world title contender Jesus “Estrella” Ruiz (32-7-5, 21 KOs) in a 10-round featherweight bout for the vacant WBC Youth Super Bantamweight Title. Despite some hard shots landed by Ruiz, De La Hoya was able to showcase his movement, timing, speed, and power. De La Hoya moved and countered effectively, avoiding many of the hard shots thrown by Ruiz and masterfully capitalizing on the missed shots. De La Hoya won the bout via unanimous decision to become the new WBC Youth Super Bantamweight Champion.

“Movement was a big part of our plan to out box him and so we conditioned so that I could move effectively throughout the fight. I felt comfortable and calm and in control throughout the whole fight and I thought I landed some good uppercuts and really hurt him. Those were some of my favorite punches to throw,” said Diego De La Hoya following the fight.

“His distance and his movement made it difficult for me to execute my game plan, which was to outbox him and then eventually land a big shot. I was never hurt throughout the fight but he just outworked me and made it difficult for me to land,” said Jesus Ruiz.

In the co-main event of the night two undefeated rising prospects, two-time Brazilian Olympian Everton Lopes (4-0, 1 KOs) and Omar Tienda (13-1, 8 KOs) of Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon, Mexico went head to head in one of the most important fights of each other’s young careers. Lopes tasted that canvas twice in the bout in the face of the hard charging Omar Tienda’s attack. Lopes recovered to fight back and show his boxing skills, moving effectively and landing solid left hands from the southpaw stance. Lopes fought hard to earn a majority decision.

“Every fight is a learning experience. I learned a lot now I need to go back and work on what I didn’t do as well as I would have liked to do. This was my first time being knocked down but I felt I stayed calm and kept my distance and that was the difference in the fight,” said Everton Lopes.

“That was a robbery. My plan was to pressure him and not give him room to think. I think I did that effectively but I was robbed anyway,” said Omar Tienda.

Opening up the LA FIGHT CLUB telecast, undefeated local favorite Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (11-0, 9 KOs) had the crowd cheering him on as he took on Luis Lizarraga Jr. (5-6-1, 2 KOs) of Merida, Mexico in a scheduled six-round lightweight fight. Gonazlez dominated the fight early on delivering a devastating left hook to Lizarraga Jr. in the second round, winning the fight by TKO.

“That left hook is something we have been working on. I felt calm and relaxed throughout the fight, which helped me to land that shot perfectly,” said Christian Gonzalez of the fight.

For the first-time ever, viewers were able to tune in to a live stream of the three LA FIGHT CLUB undercard fights via The Ring TV’s Roku channel, www.ringtvlive.com and on The Ring TV’s YouTube channel. Part of the live stream, Ivan “Striker” Delgado (7-0-1, 2 KOs) of Los Angeles, took on Thomas Herrera (4-14-1, 1 KOs) of Tucson, Arizona in a six-round super featherweight brawl that had fans in an uproar. The bout featured an ebb and flow of action that saw both fighters landing hard shots but ultimately it was Delgado that was victorious, winning the fight by unanimous decision.

“I feel great after that win. He was a tough dude and he took some of my best shots so the key for me was to stay composed and focused and time my shots,” said Ivan Delgado.

Also featured on Ring TV’s live stream, Los Angeles favorite Rafael Gramajo (5-1-1, 2 KOs) impressed fans with his decision victory over fellow super bantamweight Adrian Rodriguez (1-7-1) of Guadalajara, Mexico. Gramajo landed repeated body shots

“This was my first six-round fight. I’d only done four-round fights previously. I had a tough opponent who didn’t back down, and we went toe-to-toe. I came to give the fans a show, and I did. Thank you Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity,” said Rafael Gramajo.

And opening up the night, newcomer Jonathan Navarro (2-0, 1 KO) of East Los Angeles, continued his winning streak in his second professional fight against Santa Ana, Calif.’s Gibran Gutierrez (0-1), defeating Gutierrez by unanimous decision.

Navarro came out aggressive in the first round, swinging and landing body shots, knocking down Gutierrez twice. In rounds two and three, Gutierrez persevered and fought back but Navarro’s strength proved to be too much ultimately.

“My second professional fight felt good, and I’m glad I was able to get back in the ring so quickly after by debut. The fighter was tough-he definitely could take a punch. I know I went wild in the beginning of the fight, but once I dropped him the first time I knew I had him,” said Jonathan Navarro.

LA FIGHT CLUB: De La Hoya vs. Ruiz, was a 10-round bout for the vacant WBC Youth Super Bantamweight Title presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra. Doors opened at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout began at 5:30 p.m. The Estrella TV Viernes de Boxeo Estelar broadcast aired live on Friday, September 4 at 10:00 p.m. ET/7:00 p.m. PT. The Ring TV live stream will began at approximately 5:30 p.m. PT through 7:00 p.m.

LA FIGHT CLUB is a monthly boxing series featured on the first Friday of each month, with upcoming shows including a special edition on Sept. 18, and on Oct. 2, Nov. 6, and Dec. 4. The series showcases the brightest stars in the sport and present these exciting matchups in a nightclub atmosphere with an original setup. The boxing ring is set on the main floor of the Belasco Theater with on-camera standing room for fans in front of the ring similar to a concert pit, as well as reserved balcony and floor seats. Los Angeles’ own DJ Ray of Big Boy’s Neighborhood spins music during the fights and fans are able to dance and mingle with the fighters when the venue converts into a night club, in a VIP experience not matched by any promoter in the industry.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.estrellatv.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @EstrellaTV, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/EstrellaTVNetwork, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @belascola and @EstrellaTV, follow the conversation using #BoxeoEstelar and #LAFIGHTCLUB.

LAS VEGAS, NV (August 5, 2015) — Marvelous Marvin Hagler’s middleweight world championship belt; trunks, gloves and robes worn by Diego Corrales, Erik Morales, Jose Luis Castillo and Johnny Tapia, among others; Oscar De La Hoya’s 1992 Olympic gold medal and artifacts such as betting slips from a 1910 Jack Johnson bout and Jim Jeffries’ shoes, will be on display at the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame’s exhibit/museum at Caesars Palace on Friday and Saturday.

The third annual NVBHOF induction gala will be held on Saturday at Caesars, and Hall CEO/Founder/President Rich Marotta wanted to provide a special treat for boxing fans in Las Vegas, so he came up with the idea for the exhibit.

It will be open to the public on Friday and Saturday outside the Palace Ballroom at Caesars from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

“We hope the entire boxing community of Las Vegas will come out and enjoy this different special attraction,” Marotta said. “It will honor the rich history of boxing in Nevada, as well as the glamorous figures who made Nevada the boxing capitol of the world.”

There will be much more of Nevada’s boxing history on display in addition to the aforementioned items. Among the most unique are:

· Newspaper accounts from the James Corbett-Bob Fitzsimmons bout from 1897, the first held in Nevada.
· Fitzsimmons’ good-luck horseshoe.
· Three generations of WBC championship belts.
· Memorabilia from legendary trainer Eddie Futch’s 50-year career.
· The actual ring used for many of the most historic fights ever held at Caesars Palace, as well as much more.

As a special attraction, famed boxing artist Richard Slone, designer of memorable boxing posters and programs, will display some of his finest pieces and will be there to discuss them with fans.

There will also be in-person appearances by fighters and boxing personalities throughout both days. Television personality James “Smitty” Smith will host question-and-answer sessions with many of the stars.

Remaining tickets for Saturday night’s induction ceremony are $300, $175 and $75 and are fully tax deductible, as the NVBHOF is an IRS 501 (c)3 charity. They can be purchased online at the Hall’s website, nvbhof.com.

Confirmed attendees include inductees Hagler, Lennox Lewis, Marco Antonio Barrera, Felix Trinidad, Roger Mayweather and Eddie Mustafa Muhammad, as well as Nevada Fighter of the Year Floyd Mayweather Jr., and presenters Mike Tyson and Sugar Ray Leonard.

The Hall was founded in 2013 by Marotta, a noted boxing broadcaster.
For more information, phone 702-3-NVBHOF, or 702-368-2463.

LOS ANGELES, (July 1, 2015) – Golden Boy Promotions Founder and Chairman Oscar De La Hoya released the following statement today in the wake of Top Rank Boxing’s lawsuit against Al Haymon and his affiliated entities.

“I applaud Bob Arum and Top Rank Boxing for stepping up on behalf of fighters not only in their own stable, but all across the sport. Those like Bob and myself who have spent the bulk of their lives around boxing understand that the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act is a crucial piece of legislation that serves to protect boxers and enhance the sport. Golden Boy Promotions will continue to push forward with our own lawsuit to ensure our wonderful sport continues to grow in a competitive, just manner.”

Background on GBP Lawsuit:

On May 6, 2015, Golden Boy Promotions filed a $300 million lawsuit against Al Haymon and his related companies alleging repeated violation of antitrust laws and the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act. The case was filed in Federal Court in Los Angeles.

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, former world champion Oscar De La Hoya has decided to stay retired after flirting with a comeback last week.

“Over the last six months I’ve had a front row seat as Golden Boy [Promotions] fighters including Canelo Alvarez, Bernard Hopkins, Lucas Matthysse, Jorge Linares and David Lemieux have stepped into the ring and shown what boxing should be all about — a commitment to fight the best, to respect the sport and to put the fans first,” De La Hoya said in a statement. “As a professional athlete and someone who has spent almost his entire life in boxing, not a day goes by when I don’t think about coming back — and the performances of these Golden Boy fighters has only added to my desire to return to the ring.

“But I am retired, and after speaking to my family and following a great deal of introspection, I have decided to stay retired. However, I do so with knowledge that many fighters today still pride themselves on the same principles that I adhered to throughout my career. It is now through boxers like those I mentioned and dozens of other Golden Boy Promotions fighters that those values live on.”

“To the many thousands of fans who over the last couple of weeks encouraged me to come out of retirement and fight again, I thank you,” De La Hoya said. “You can rest assured that I will spend the rest of my days around this wonderful sport, even though those days won’t be spent inside the ropes.”

De La Hoya told ESPN.com on Monday that he even sparred 10 rounds with a young fighter — he said he did not know his name — on Saturday morning and did well.

“I still got it,” De La Hoya said.

After the sparring session, De La Hoya said he went home to have “the talk” with his wife, Millie, and their children about whether he should pursue the comeback. He said the plans ended with that conversation.

“My wife was all for it,” De La Hoya told ESPN.com. “But my kids didn’t want to see old Papa get hurt.”

According to Dan Rafael of espn.com, Oscar De La Hoya is contemplating a return to the ring.

“It’s got to be worth my while but this is very serious,” De La Hoya told ESPN.com on Monday. “I have to make sure I am fighting the very best. I don’t have to come back for financial reasons or the lights or the glamour. The only reason I would come back is because I miss the competition of fighting the very best.”

“Right now I feel the best I have felt in my life physically, emotionally, mentally because I haven’t touched alcohol for I don’t know how long. I’m training. I feel great. But it has to be worth my while,” said De La Hoya, an admitted alcoholic and drug addict, who has done at least two stints in rehabilitation to deal with his addictions.

“Would I do it? I don’t know but I wake up every morning thinking that I can,” De La Hoya continued. “I think about Sugar Ray Leonard and Marvin Hagler. If [Leonard] could do it, why can’t I? We both come from similar situations. We are both hungry for the competition, we’re both ambitious. So you never know. At the same time, I wish time flies by so I don’t have to come back.”

“I want to fight one of them because they are the best and I always fought the best,” De La Hoya said. “That’s what boxing is all about – fighting the best.”

I’ve gotten everything taken care of — my rotator cuffs, my left hand, everything. I’m pain free,” De La Hoya said. “I just feel good and when I walk the streets, everyone tells me, ‘You have to fight Floyd again, you have to fight GGG. You can do it, you can do it.

“I just feel great physically. I’ve been taking care of myself. I’ve been doing the Bernard Hopkins lifestyle. You can turn the clock back to a certain time.”

“I’m not preparing for an actual fight, but I run 8 miles, I can hit the bag for 12 rounds, I can jump rope and do the speed bag. I do all that on a regular basis to stay in shape,” De La Hoya said. “I look great too. I’ve never seen myself look like this. Sometimes that little itch gets me in that certain spot, and when so many people tell me I can do it, it’s trying to convince me that you can.”

“So it will be one of those bittersweet moments,” De La Hoya said. “There will be people who will like it and those who won’t. I want everyone to like it.”

“I feel amazing,” De La Hoya said. “In my life right now, I have so much motivation. I am so hungry and so determined. My plan is long term with Golden Boy, with me personally, my family, my business. I am young, I am healthy and I feel great — 42 is the new 32.”

LOS ANGELES (May 29) – Oscar De La Hoya President and Founder of Golden Boy Promotions is scheduled to attend the June 4 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB at the historic Belasco Theater in Downtown Los Angeles and will host a special meet and greet with fans prior to the televised bouts from 6:00 pm to 7:00 p.m. Fans with tickets to the event will have an opportunity to come by the upstairs ballroom, take a picture with The Golden Boy and have him sign boxing memorabilia.

In the main event, Puerto Rico’s Jayson “Star” Velez (22-0-1, 16 KOs) of Juncos, will battle it out against Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico’s Daniel “Huracan” Ramirez (11-1, 5 KOs), in a classic Puerto Rico vs. Mexico 10-round featherweight bout sure to excite fans. The co-main televised event features Los Angeles native Carlos “The Solution” Morales (7-1-3, 2 KOs) taking on Emmanuel Gonzalez (14-1, 7 KOs) of the Bronx, New York in an eight-round super bantamweight bout. Opening the telecast, Los Angeles favorite Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (9-0, 9 KOs) is scheduled to fight Darryl Hayes (3-4, 1 KOs) of Houston, Texas, in a six-round super-feather weight fight, and Rafael Gramajo (3-1-1, 2 KOs) also of Los Angeles is hoping to make airtime in a four-round super bantamweight fight against Pablo Cupul (4-16, 3 KOs) of Merida, Mexico.

In the non-televised undercard, Pablo Rubio of Whittier, Calif. will take on Martin Regalado of Los Angeles in a four-round bout, both fighters will be making their professional debut.

Hailing from Juncos, Puerto Rico, Jayson “Star” Velez made his professional debut in 2007 and his U.S. debut in his ninth fight in June 2009 triumphing over Jesus Bayron at Madison Square Garden in New York City. In 2012, Velez returned to Madison Square Garden to face Salvador Sánchez II, winning the WBC Silver Featherweight Championship. Velez has continued his winning streak through 2014, most recently taking down Miguel Soto in a second round technical knockout victory in April 2014 in Puerto Rico. Velez was last seen fighting Evegny Gradovich for the IBF World Featherweight title in November 2014, with the fight ending in a draw.

A professional since 2012, Daniel “Huracan” Ramirez of Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico is looking to add another win to his record when he faces Velez on June 4. Fighting in the U.S. in all of his 2014 bouts facing top prospects Guy Robb, Aaron Garcia, and Eric Hunter, the Mexican fighter is looking to impress in his first fight of 2015.

Carlos “The Solution” Morales made his LA FIGHT CLUB debut with a triumph victory over Santiago Guevara on March 6. A local fighter hailing from Highland Park, Calif., Morales has been undefeated in his last eight bout, three of which have been by knockout. He has a rough start in his professional debut in Montebello, Calif. against Allan Benitez, since then Morales has quickly bounced back, winning bout after bout. He hopes to continue his winning streak as he returns to The Belasco Theater on June 4

Hailing from the Bronx, New York, veteran fighter Emmanuel Gonzalez made his professional debut against Jean Ramos in December 2008 at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Since then, Gonzalez has proven himself a tough opponent remaining undefeated for seven years until his latest fight against Tevin Farmer in June of 2014. June 4 will mark Gonzalez’ first bout of 2015 and he is eager to prove that he is still a fighter to be feared when he takes on Carlos Morales at LA FIGHT CLUB.

One of the most exciting prospects in the sport, 19-year-old super featherweight Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez has thrilled fans by winning each of his professional bouts by knockout, seven in the first round. Fresh from a sixth-round stoppage of Julio Sarinana at the inaugural LA FIGHT CLUB at The Belasco Theater on March 6, forced him to rise from the canvas for the first time to win. Now, Gonzalez is ready to please his fans in his second appearance in the Los Angeles series.

Darryl Hayes of Houston, Texas is looking to get on the winning track in his first fight of 2015. Having had a tough 2014 after returning to the ring from a four-year break, the fighter is known to go the distance in his bouts. Now, the fighter is looking to add a win to his record when he makes his 2015 debut.

Born in Garden City, Kansas, and raised in Los Angeles, Rafael Gramajo started boxing at the age of 11 in the same gym that saw the likes of Brandon Rios and Victor Ortiz. After an ambitious amateur career where he participated in around 100 fights, Gramajo decided to take his career to the next level, making his professional debut against Jimmy Small in April 2012. In 2014, Gramajo moved to Los Angeles to train out of the famed Westside boxing Club under the Saucedo Brothers. Boasting two impressive wins at Fantasy Springs in 2015, Gramajo will make his LA FIGHT CLUB debut on June 4.

Pablo Cupul is a tough fighter known for his endurance in the ring. A professional since 2009, the fighter has consistently stayed busy. Having last fought in June of 2014, against Oscar Negrete, Cupul is looking to add a win to his record when he faces Gramajo in his first fight of 2015.

Pablo Rubio, from Whittier, Calif., is set to make his professional debut at the June 4 edition of LA FIGHT CLUB. Rubio fought in the 2014 USA Boxing Junior and Youth Open in the youth lightweight class at 123 lbs. He has sparred with the likes of undefeated professional boxer Leo Santa Cruz. On June 4, Rubio is determined to make a strong start to his professional career and a name for himself with the win over his opponent.

Martin Regalado of Los Angeles is set to make his professional debut at The Belasco Theater on June 4 as he faces Pablo Rubio in his first pro 4-round super bantamweight bout.

LA FIGHT CLUB: Velez vs. Ramirez is a 10-round featherweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cotto Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra and Mexico – Live It To Believe It!. Doors open at 5:00 p.m., and the first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast will air live at 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the June 4 LA FIGHT CLUB are on sale now. Prices start at $20 and can be purchased online by going to www.goldenboypromotions.com or by visiting the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page. For ticket information, email LAFightClub@goldenboypromotions.com.

The “Knockout Experience VIP Package” is also available for an additional $25 upgrade and includes VIP entrance, access to an exclusive lounge offering food and beverages for purchase; a meet and greet opportunity with fighters and celebrities attending the event; an automatic entry into the LA FIGHT CLUB grand prize drawing, which can include but is not limited to: autograph gloves, picture in the ring, backstage access, tour of locker rooms, fighter ring walk, tickets to upcoming boxing events and additional merchandise and prizes.

The LA FIGHT CLUB is a monthly boxing series that takes place on the first Thursday of each month. It will showcase the brightest stars in the sport and present these exciting matchups in a nightclub atmosphere with an original setup. The boxing ring will be set on the main floor of The Belasco Theater with on-camera standing room for fans in front of the ring similar to a concert pit, as well as reserved balcony and floor seats. Los Angeles’ own DJ Ray of Big Boy’s Neighborhood will spin music during the fights and fans will be able to dance and mingle with the fighters when the venue converts into a night club, in a VIP experience not matched by any promoter in the industry.

Media interested in attending the June 4 installment of LA FIGHT CLUB must be pre-approved for credentials. Credential applications are available by clicking HERE. Completed credential applications should be sent to credentials@goldenboypromotions.com by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 29. Media will not be credentialed on-site, no exceptions.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1, www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @FoxSports, @FoxSports1, @FoxDeportes, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/FOXDeportes, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing and @belascola and follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB.

Oscar De La Hoya:

Thank you very much, everyone. To all the media who is participating, we are extremely, extremely excited to announce today, an upcoming fight on June 20th live from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada: Lemieux vs. N’Dam. They will be fighting for the IBF vacant Middleweight World Title, and we are extremely proud to announce that this event is being presented by Eye of the Tiger Management and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Evenko.

We strongly feel that in Canada-obviously they love their hockey-but that’s not the only sport that they follow. Canadians also love their boxing with passion, and we anticipate a full house at the Bell Centre on June 20th in Montreal. So, that’s a fight that everybody in Canada will be looking forward to.

Lemieux vs. N’Dam is a terrific fight and they are in probably one of the most dangerous and one of the most exciting weight classes that boxing has today.

When you talk about the middleweight division, you think about the greats in boxing history. And on June 20th, Lemieux and N’Dam will have the opportunity to cement and to start creating their own history, eventually getting to the top and being mentioned with the greats of this division, the middleweight division.

As you know, Lemieux has been taking the world by storm. He, not only generates huge ratings on HBO, but he’s being looked upon as the emerging next star in the middleweight division, and N’Dam, his record speaks for itself. His style speaks for itself. There’s nothing that anyone can say negatively about N’Dam because he always comes to fight. He’s in the fight of his life and probably the most important fight of his career, and he knows that. We anticipate a tremendous fight on June 20th.

Let me at this moment introduce to you the director of boxing for King Sports who will make some comments and introduce Hassan N’Dam, that is Paul King.

Paul King:

Hey, Oscar. Thanks a lot, my man. First of all, we’re excited and we’re proud to be doing our first event with you. So Oscar and Eric and everybody at Golden Boy, we want to thank you for that.

At this point, I just want to move forward and I would like to put Hassan on for his interview. Hassan, are you there?

Hassan N’Dam:

I feel good. It’s the fight that I’ve been waiting for for a very long time, since I beat Curtis Stevens and I’m the official challenger. For me, it’s just a logic continuity after the Curtis Stevens fight. I’m happy that this fight is taking place because I was sick of waiting for this. For me, the opponent is not important.

Before David Lemieux, two other boxers refused to fight me. The fact that David Lemieux accepted to fight me was a relief. I’m just waiting with impatience for June 20th, because I’ll be able to show to the world what I have in my head, in my legs and in my arms.

Thank you.

Oscar De La Hoya:

Thank you very much, Hassan, and just to remind everyone, Hassan N’Dam has a record of 31-1 with 18 knockouts. So with Lemieux’s style and Hassan’s style, it calls for again one of those terrific fights that can’t be missed.

Also, thank you very much, Hassan, for your comments. We can now open it up to the media for a couple of questions for Hassan.

Question:

The question for Hassan is: how does David Lemieux save up against some of your previous fighters? You fought Curtis Stevens. You fought Peter Quillin. What is Lemieux’s quality? Is he better than Stevens? Do you see him as better than Quillin or a notch below?

Hassan N’Dam:

Every boxer has his style and every boxer has his own strategy. Stevens’s strategy will not be the same as David Lemieux’s strategy. Boxing is a difficult sport. I respect each and every opponent that I have. Every opponent that will face me will be taken very seriously. Each fighter, the better ones and the lesser ones, are all considered equal for me when I’m going into a fight.

Question:

Yes. With the current resurgence of the middleweight division-when you talk about the middleweight division the names that come to mind are: Cotto, GGG, Lee, Quillin, Geale and now Pennello in the mix. They tend to forget two names, which are Lemieux and N’Dam. After Saturday, one of y’all’s names will be mixed with those guys. How do you all feel about that and what does it mean to you?

Hassan N’Dam:

I always look at these things the right side. I’ve always been considered as an outsider. And, I’ve always proven my skills with each and every one of my opponents. I’ve proved to everyone that I have the [indiscernible] to be where I am at that given moment after each fight.

From the moment when I started competing in world championship fights-I fought only undefeated, tough opponents and I beat them. Except for [indiscernible] and that’s the only one, but everyone knows . Today, everyone is talking about the hard-hitter facing me. But people tend to forget what I’ve done before when I’ve faced other hard-hitting boxers. One day my skills, my talent and my efforts will be recognized and acknowledged and then I’ll be in that midst.

Question:

Yes, Paul, are you still on the line?

Paul King:

Yes.

Question:

Okay, I have a question with Hassan. I know this fight was being negotiated and there was some issue-I don’t know if there were issues or just rumors of issues of the financial terms, which led to the purse. I was just wondering if you could briefly speak to that.

Paul King:

Whatever went on before, everything got sorted out. Hassan is here. He’s in camp. Golden Boy is along with us, and we’ll be in Montreal on the 20th ready to fight.

Question:

Thanks. Well, I appreciate that. I have one question for Hassan. Just how he feels about having to go to David Lemieux’s backyard. Like he said, he goes on the outside looking in. So does he just see this as one more chance to upset the odds?

Hassan N’Dam:

Everywhere I fight, I feel like it’s my backyard. I feel like I’m at home. I was born in Cameroon, but I made a name for myself in France. Today, I fight in LA like I’m at home. On June 20th, I’ll be in my room in Canada.

Question:

Okay, great. Thanks. I appreciate that. Then Oscar, I just have one question for you.I know this fight is going to be shown on Canada pay-per-view. I was just wondering if efforts are still being made to try and secure US TV for this fight.

Oscar De La Hoya:

Yes. We are talking to various networks here in the US and that’ll be sorted out. We’ll have an announcement very soon.

Question:

Okay. I know you can’t speak to any network. Are you optimistic it will be on US TV though?

Oscar De La Hoya:

It will be on US TV. Absolutely, yes.

Question:

Yes. Thank you. I’ll ask my question in French, if you don’t mind. Sorry for those who don’t understand my French. Hassan. [speaking foreign language.]

Moderator (Question):

I’ll just translate the question for everyone. So, he’s asking, he says your only defeat in your career happened against Peter Quillin. So can you go over that and tell us what have you learned from that defeat, and can you use anything against David Lemieux?

Hassan N’Dam:

I’ve explained this many times to people and this is, I hope, the last time I’ll have to explain it, because my career is moving forward and not looking backwards. I fought Peter Quillin without being prepared. I had only a three-week notice and I didn’t even do any sparring.

The only reason I took this fight with a three-week notice is because they threatened to strip me from my belt, and since I am a man, if I was to lose my title, I thought I might as well lose it in the ring.

I had no strategy to beat Peter Quillin. I just had to improvise to do-to do my own style. And fight with my heart. Which I think I did very well.

Today, this situation is very different. My team changed. My training camp is much better. I am steady in my head to do a brilliant fight.

Question:

Merci. If I could just have a second question. [Speaking foreign language.]

Moderator (Question):

He says why did he not show up at the press conference at the last minute?

Hassan N’Dam:

I was told very, very late. I had a very short notice for this press conference. My preparation was already completely scheduled. When I was told about this press conference, I was in the French Alps because I do a high altitude free training camp, and I was just about to depart for Los Angeles to continue my training camp. I didn’t want to travel a lot and get tired.

I’m preparing this fight on June 20th. That’s my main focus, is to travel to Montreal, win the title and go home with my title.

Question:

This is for Hassan. You mentioned impatience following the fight versus Curtis Stevens. How does that motivate you? Does it give you motivation going into this fight against N’Dam seeing that it’s been a while since you got back into the ring?

Basically, I just wanted-cause he said-he mentioned impatience following the fight against Stevens. Does that give him added motivation going into the fight against Lemieux?

Hassan N’Dam:

Yes, it adds up to the motivation because I finally have a name. I know the face of my opponent so I’ve been just waiting all this time.

Question:
[Speaking foreign language.]

Moderator (Question):

She says: you’re talking of yourself like a boxer that’s underestimated and what’s your strategy to beat David Lemieux?

Hassan N’Dam:

My strategy is very simple. I’m a complete boxer. David Lemieux says that he’s different than what he used to be. But I am a very complete boxer and I’m going to use all of the tools I have to beat him. That’s it.

Moderator:

At this time, we have no further questions. I’d like to turn it over to Hassan for final comments.

Hassan N’Dam:

The final comment is, you know, I know everyone is talking about the fact that I am unhappy of the purse that I am getting for the fight. Of course, I am not very happy because I’ve heard several comments coming from my opponent’s camp saying that he’s going to have the largest purse in his career. I would like the idea, rules for the purse to be respected, and that is the purse must be split at 50/50, and there’s no additional money. I don’t want to talk about that anymore, but I just hope that the rules are going to be respected.

I just have a message for David Lemieux if he is on the line. Man, you better get ready because the spot you’re in, the challenger spot you’re in, you didn’t earn it. You got it by chance, by luck. I’m going to prove to you and to the entire world that you do not have the level of [indiscernible]. When you had the chance to become mandatory challenger, you always blew your chances. That’s all I have.

Oscar De La Hoya:

Thank you very much. Paul, thank you very much, N’Dam.

And now to introduce to you Team Lemieux. I would like to say it has been a great pleasure to work with this nice young man I’ll be introducing to you. He is president of Eye of the Tiger management. That is Camille Estephan. Camille.

Camille Estephan:

Hello, everybody. Thank you, Oscar, for the wonderful work and team N’Dam for being here today, unlike the Montreal visit that didn’t happen. I’d like to thank the press for the attention they’re giving to this fight. The fight that is majorly important in a very, very hard division that’s now the middleweight division. We believe that there will be a statement made on June 20th in Montreal at the Bell Centre.

The Bell Centre will be hosting an event that will be historical. It’s historical because it will mark a great name coming up. We believe in David Lemieux to do right at making a statement. But as well, it’s a celebration of a 35-year date in 1980. June 20th, Roberto Duran fought Sugar Ray Leonard at the Olympic Stadium and won a great historical fight. So, we’re pleased and thrilled to be making history again in Montreal for the wonderful boxing fans that supported us throughout the years and I’ve been there for David. So, it’s wonderful. Thank you, Eric and Oscar, to give the opportunity to David to give back to his fans on a wonderful June 20th coming up.

I’d like to introduce you to, as well, David and bring him to say a few words. I’m very proud of the work that he’s putting in, as always, for the last few years we’ve been working together and very, very looking forward to his performance on June 20th. David.

David Lemieux:

Hello. I’m here. Very excited for this fight. I’ve been waiting for a long time to be able to face the world champion in our division and to be able to become a world champion. It is my time, and I’ve been working since I was a young kid at this to be where I am today. I’m working extremely hard. This is to-date the best camp I’ve ever had. My physical strength is much better than it ever has been.

Everything is kind of coming into perfection for this fight. I’m extremely confident in this fight and what I am to expect with Hassan N’Dam, for I understand his boxing abilities. I understand everything about him. I’ve watched him. We studied him very well. I know his strengths, and I know his weaknesses. And I know my strength, and I know my weaknesses or whatever it is. There’s nothing I am concerned about in this fight with what I am doing today and everyday.

It’s going to be a great event. It’s going to be very explosive, and hopefully, it’s going to mark a historical event in Montreal and a great fight for 2015, to give to the fans all what they want, what they need. They’ve got two top athletes in the ring, and it’s going to be great. Two hungry guys; one much hungrier than the other. But, talk is cheap. We’ll keep everything cool for the fight on June 20th.

I’m very excited and very confident. I’m looking very forward to this fight. I’m very, very happy, and to fight N’Dam when other fighters turned him down. I would never turn down any fighter if the skills are right, good or great or whatever they are. With all my abilities, I’m in total confidence with myself, with my group, with my people, and with my surroundings, and every world we’re going to take, we’re going to be together. We’re going to be strong, and we’re going to have a big army around me. I’m willing to do all the damage, and on June 20th, I’m going to open a lot of eyes. It’s going to be very exciting.

Oscar De La Hoya:

Thank you very much, David. Before we open it up to questions for the media-just want to point out that David Lemieux, you take a look at his record, which is 33-2 with 31 knockouts. He has one of the top tail percentages of any fighter today. He has an explosive style. He’s hungry. He’s determined. He’s ready to go.

This is a very important and historical at the Bell Centre. Canada will be behind this event 100%. Golden Boy Promotions is really proud to be working with Eye of the Tiger and David. This will be our first fight since signing a deal with David, so we are just thrilled, excited, and happy, to be going out there for the whole week promoting this great event in Canada.

Now we can open it up to the media for questions for David. Thank you.

Question:

Hello, everybody. Thank you. Hello, David.

David Lemieux:

Hello.

Question:

David, my question for you is related to the loss that N’Dam took against Peter Quillin. He said on his part of the call that he had only three weeks to prepare for that fight and did not spar, but the results of the fight was he got knocked down, I believe it was five times, and obviously lost the decision. The question is: you are known for your very good punching power. He was on the deck five times against the best opponent that he has faced in his career. When you think about that, or do you think about that, do you think that this is looking like another knockout for David Lemieux?

David Lemieux:

He’s a great fighter. I’m not underestimating him, and I would never compare myself to any other fighters, especially not to Peter Quillin. He’s a good fighter but my abilities are very different, and I’m sure that any athlete can get knocked down but I think when Hassan will put the glove to his knee and that bell will ring in the first round, he will never [indiscernible] with me in his entire career. But we’ll see on June 20th.

Question:

Well, when you know that he got knocked down five times, and you know the kind of power that you possess, does it make you lick your chops a little bit?

David Lemieux:

No because anybody I’m willing to go in the ring with, I’m going to hurt them regardless if it is an undefeated title who has never been knocked down or some guy who has been knocked down. To me, it makes no difference because I have one goal in my mind. It’s to destroy and to be able to do it the best way I can throughout the whole fight. If it doesn’t happen in the first round, or the fifth, or the sixth, I’ll still try to the twelfth. There’s always going to be patience from my side.

Question:

I want to ask you, I don’t know if you had a chance to see it. Did you watch the Gennady Golovkin fight on Saturday night and his performance against Willie Monroe?

David Lemieux:

No. I’m just concentrating on this fight right now. I’m not paying attention to any other boxing. Just concentrating on my fight and on my [indiscernible], and that’s it.

Question:

How big of a deal is it for you, David, that this fight is going to take place in Montreal where you, obviously, that’s your hometown? By all accounts, you’re developing a very nice fan base up there. How significant is it for you to be able to fight for one of the world titles in front of those people in Montreal?

David Lemieux:

I’m very, very happy with it. It’s a dream come true. I’m working extremely hard. My fans always supported me here from my downsides, to my upsides and to my greater side. But now I’m a different person and I’m ready to bring this title home and to be sure, for all the fans to enjoy this great night of boxing at home in our backyard and just from a walk away from home. So, it’s good for me.

Question:

Alright. Very good. David, I wish you good luck. Thank you very much.

David Lemieux:

Thank you.

Question:

Hi, David. My question is this. On N’Dam’s side of the call, he said that you didn’t earn this spot, that you were lucky. Why do you think he would say something like that and does that bother you that he said you didn’t earn, regardless of what you’ve done in your career. He says you got this by luck?

David Lemieux:

Well, that’s only going to make him look foolish when I beat him on the 20th, that’s all. There’s no luck in boxing. It’s a hard man’s work. It’s life or death in the ring. It’s not a game, and there’s no such thing as luck in boxing. I’ve earned my right to be where I am, and I will be where I want to be. So, whatever his comment is, I disregard it and I don’t concern myself with his opinion.

Question:

Yes. This question is for David. You’re one of the names that kind of get forgotton in the middleweight division and if you win on Saturday, it’s going to change dramatically. You’re going to get thrown right up there with the upper echelon of this division. What does that mean to you? What does this fight mean to you?

David Lemieux:

It’s something I’ve known, I’ve understood and I’m ready for it. My name has been in people’s ears, but it hasn’t been out there to expose potential yet. So June 20th will signify earning the right to have my name out there with the top of the world. It’s extremely important. Of course every fight is extremely important, but especially this one. It’s another degree of importance. I’m training extremely hard, and I’m not going to miss my shot.

Question:

Good answer. Is unifying the titles, is that in your future? Do you see you trying that?

David Lemieux:

Yes. Sure. I’ll fight whoever there is to fight. I’m always up for challenges, and this is what I do as a champion. This is my duty. I’ll defend whatever there is to defend. I’m always going to be fighting the best. So, I’ll be all set for that [indiscernible].

Question:

Hi, David. How are you doing today?

David Lemieux:

I’m doing great. How are you?

Question:

Good. Thank you. My question comes from Hassan’s comments at the end of his conference. Do you think he is underestimating you as a fighter or do you think it was just a comment out of disrespect for you and how does that motivate you for the fight?

David Lemieux:

I think he has no clue of whom he’s going to face on June 20th and that’s going to be to my advantage. I don’t concern myself with his opinion or what he has to say about who he has faced and the challenges I’ve had in my life and my career, whatever it is. That’s my personal issues, and I aim to prove otherwise and June 20th will be the day when I will prove that. So, I don’t concern myself with anything. I’m very focused, and I’m ready. I’m ready for anything.

Question:

Great. Another question I have for you is he has more experience in championship fights. He’s gone, I think four or five more twelve-round fights than you have. Do you think his experience or your lack of experience in the later rounds will be a disadvantage for you?

David Lemieux:

Not at all. Nothing’s going to change the scenario of the fight. My experience has been great, and I’m ready to fight anybody in the middleweight division. Whatever style they have, it’s not going to be an issue.

Question:

Hello. This is a question for Oscar. Golden Boy and you have really been delivering. Your last two fights were Matthysse, Provodnikov, and then Canelo, Kirkland. This is another great matchup between N’Dam and Lemieux. I was just wondering, I read that HBO had a pass on this fight, and I was wondering why they would pass on a great fight like this.

Cecilia Zuniga:

Hey, Karl, this is Cecilia. Oscar had to step off the call to do a quick meeting in regards to TV rights to this particular fight. So, he’s no longer on the call, unfortunately. Sorry.

Karl Freitag:

Okay. Alright. That’s all I’ve got. Thank you.

Cecilia Zuniga:

Okay. Thank you.

Question:

Yes. I’m going to ask my question in French. [Speaking foreign language.]

Moderator: [Speaking foreign language.]

David Lemieux: [Speaking foreign language.]

Moderator: [Speaking foreign language.]

Moderator:

And I would not like to turn it over to David for final comments.

David Lemieux:

June 20th is going to be a great night of boxing. For all the fans around the world, don’t miss this fight. If you blink, you might miss it. It’s going to be a great night and very explosive. I’m actually very excited and very happy to be fighting Hassan N’Dam. Thank you.

Moderator:

And I’d like to turn it over to Camille for final comments.

Camille Estephan:

Well, the stage is set, and the chips are down, and like David said, don’t blink. It’s going to be an explosive fight that is made for the fans. Golden Boy has, like you guys mentioned, been putting on great fights that are extremely competitive, and this is one that is very promising. We’re working very hard on making sure that it will be a wonderful event for the Montreal fans with great explosive fireworks in the ring. So don’t miss it. Thank you very much.

###

David Lemieux vs. Hassan N’Dam is a 12-round fight for the vacant IBF
Middleweight World Championship presented by Eye of the Tiger Management and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Evenko. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET and the first bell rings at 6:45 p.m. ET. The live Canadian PPV telecast airs at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT.

Tickets start at $70 (CAD), taxes and service charges included, are on sale now at www.evenko.ca and at the Bell Centre box office. For further information, please visit us at and www.eottm.com, www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.evenko.ca or call 1-855-310-2525. Follow us on Twitter @Lemieuxboxing, @EOTMVD, @GoldenBoyBoxing and @evenko.

HOUSTON (May 7) – Canelo Alvarez and James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland hosted the final press conference in Houston on Thursday, May 7 ahead of their showdown on May 9 at Minute Maid Park and live on HBO World Championship Boxing ®. Golden Boy Promotions Founder and President Oscar De La Hoya, SMS Promotions Chairman and CEO Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, and Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner Bernard Hopkins were also in attendance to support their fighters ahead of Saturday’s bout. Also in attendance were promoters Mike Battah, President of Leija*Battah Promotions and Jesse James Leija, Texas Boxing Legend and Founder of Leija*Battah Promotions.

Other fighters on the Canelo vs. Kirkland undercard in attendance at Thursday’s press conference included co-main event fighter Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto (65-8-2, 35 KOs),2012 Olympian Joseph “Jojo” Diaz Jr. (15-0, 10 KOs), Chinese heavyweight sensation, Taishan (3-0, 2 KOs), KeAndre Gibson (12-0-1, 5 KOs), Joshua Clottey (38-4, 22 KOs), Ryan Martin (12-0, 7 KOs), and James Leija Jr.

Here is what the fighters and the promoters had to say at the press conference:

CANELO ALVAREZ, Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion:

“Thank you all for being here. I want to say thank you for all of the support you have been giving me. We have worked very hard to come out with this victory.

“It’s very easy to say words, but once we are in the ring, let’s let the fists do the talking.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions:

“We are excited to be once again partnering with the champion network, HBO, where everyone is guaranteed to watch the best that boxing has to offer.

“Some people weren’t too content with the May 2 performances but one thing is for sure: people are very excited to watch some action with Canelo Alvarez and James Kirkland on May 9.

“As a promoter, you want to work with fighters that want to go against the very best. That is what is so exciting for me about promoting this event because that’s what we’ll have on May 9. The best fighting the best.

“James is one of the most decorated punchers and fighters. He brings power, and he brings excitement to ring.”

JAMES KIRKLAND, Super Welterweight Contender:

“I have been looking forward to this moment for a long time. We had this fight set up once before but it was canceled due to an injury.

“My training camp has been outstanding. Canelo brings a lot to the game; he has a great team backing him. I would like to thank the fans, HBO, and everyone who will be at the fight. Thank you. Team Kirkland!”

CURTIS “50 CENT” JACKSON, Founder and Chairman of SMS Promotions:

“This is excitement. Originally, I was just passionate about boxing, I was just a fan, but now, to be a part of what could possibly be the biggest fight of the year, that is really exciting.

“I want to thank everyone, Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar De La Hoya, Bernard Hopkins, HBO, and everyone working behind the scenes to make this fight happen.

“One of my up and coming fighters for SMS Promotions, Ryan Martin, will also be fighting on May 9.

“We will definitely get a chance to see some action on May 9 at Minute Maid Park. It’s the perfect place for this fight.”

HUMBERTO SOTO, Former Three-Division World Champion:

“I want to thank the promoters for bringing back this level of fighting.

“It’s going to be another great fight. We have youth versus experience, and the fans are going to win. Don’t miss this fight, thank you so much.”

BERNARD HOPKINS, Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner:

“Thank you everyone that participated in putting this event together. Right now, these fighters have a chance to be the ‘next big thing.’

“This will be the shortest comment I’ve ever made: Canelo, you’re healthy, right? (nod) Kirkland, you’re healthy, right? (nod) Then, we’re going to fight, ya’ll.”

Mike Battah, President of Lieja*Battah Promotions:

“When we started Leija*Battah Promotions three years ago our goal was to bring the best, fan friendly fights to Texas and years later we have proven it.

“Where else can you get a megastar like Canelo and a dangerous fighter like Kirkland fighting two or three hours from your home? We have fighters from Houston, and San Antonio, and other parts of Texas that will be on a mega-fight undercard like they have never experienced. It is important to showcase these Texas fighters on this big stage.”

JESSE JAMES LEIJA, Texas Boxing Legend and Founder of Leija*Battah Promotions:

“Houston, we want you to come and bring out the best boxing fans in the world. It is the best atmosphere to be boxing in a baseball stadium.

“On May 9 at Minute Maid Park my son is making his professional boxing debut. He is a graduate of St. Mary’s University. Come out and support this great event.

“I want to thank these two amazing fighters, Canelo and Kirkland in advance, because we are going to have a great night.”

JOSE “CHEPO” REYNOSO, Manager and Trainer for Canelo Alvarez:

“On Saturday night we are going to see two tremendous warriors go toe to toe.

“At the end of the night Canelo will be shouting Viva Mexico with his fists.”

EDDY REYNOSO, Head Trainer for Canelo Alvarez:

“At training camp we worked very hard, very dedicated. And, once again, thanks to all the press for the coverage you’ve given us.”

PETER NELSON, HBO Sports Vice President of Programing:

“This is exactly the kind of caliber event that makes stars.

“More people are going to see this event than anything since Muhammad Ali fought here in Texas.

“I think that this is one of the signature events HBO will have this year. These are the stars of today, Canelo Alvarez and James Kirkland.

“This presents a great opportunity for Humberto Soto to bring his career back to a big stage. We are going to see fighters fulfill their potential on Saturday night.”

REID RYAN, President of Business Operations for Houston:

“The fight is definitely being talked about in the City of Houston. We are very excited about this event.

“There is a buzz surrounding this event. The phone has been ringing all day at the stadium. People are excited for this event. It will be the first boxing event at Minute Maid Park.”

BAY BAY McCLINTON, Strength and Conditioning Trainer to James Kirkland:

“I only train greatness. On Saturday night, you will see greatness. You are going to see a different James Kirkland.

“The last time Mexico came to Texas, remember this: remember the Alamo.

“I always ask my fighters, ‘You want to be good, or you want to be great?’ Tomorrow, he’s [Kirkland] going to be great.”

GREG ALVAREZ, Combative Sports Manager of the Texas Department of License & Regulation:

“Thank you to Golden Boy Promotions, Leija*Battah Promotions and all the people that are putting this show on.

“This is the biggest single day event Texas is going to have.

“I’m real excited for this big fight, the real fight.”

Tickets for May 9 Canelo vs. Kirkland are priced at $350, $150, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable fees and service charges, are available for purchase at Astros.com/boxing, the Minute Maid Park Box Office (Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, online at www.ticketmaster.com. There is a 19-ticket limit per household.

Canelo Alvarez vs. James Kirkland is a 12-round super welterweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions, SMS Promotions and Leija*Battah Promotions. The fight will take place Saturday, May 9 at Minute Maid Park in Houston and is sponsored by Corona Extra, Mexico – Live it to Believe it!, Fred Loya Insurance and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. CT and first bout starts at 11:10 a.m. CT, the HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx, www.smsboxing.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.astros.com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @SMS_Boxing, @HBOBoxing, @Canelo, @KOKirkland, @Astros @LeijaBattahPR become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/SMSBoxing, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing or www.facebook.com/astros and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @smsboxing and @HBOboxing, @Canelopower, @Kirklandsworld. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKirkland.

HOUSTON (May 7) – Canelo Alvarez and James “Mandingo Warrior” Kirkland hosted an open-to-the-public media workout in Houston on Wednesday, May 6 at Minute Maid Park in advance of their highly anticipated clash on May 9 at Minute Maid Park and live on HBO World Championship Boxing ®. Hundreds of fans came out to the stadium to watch their favorites get in the ring ahead of Saturday’s mega-fight. Golden Boy Promotions Founder and President Oscar De La Hoya and SMS Promotions Chairman and CEO Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson also attended the workout to show their support for their respective fighters Canelo Alvarez and James Kirkland ahead of Saturday’s bout. Also in attendance were promoters Mike Battah, President of Leija*Battah Promotions and Jesse James Leija, Texas Boxing Legend and Founder of Leija*Battah Promotions.

Other fighters on the Canelo vs. Kirkland undercard in attendance at Wednesday’s workout included co-main event fighter Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto (65-8-2, 35 KOs),2012 Olympian Joseph “Jojo” Diaz Jr. (15-0, 10 KOs), Chinese heavyweight sensation, Taishan (3-0, 2 KOs), Alfonso “El Tigre” Lopez (23-3, 18 KOs), Eugene “Mean Gene” Hill (31-1, 21 KOs), KeAndre Gibson (12-0-1, 5 KOs), Ryan Martin (12-0, 7 KOs), James Leija Jr., and Antonio Capulin (14-0, 6 KOs).

Here is what the fighters and the promoters had to say at the workout:

CANELO ALVAREZ, Former WBC and WBA Super Welterweight World Champion:

“I am ready to fight tomorrow if needed. I feel excited that the fight is nearly here.

“Kirkland is a strong puncher so I have been sparring with southpaws to be prepared for May 9. I am strong too and I will also look to fight intelligently on Saturday.

“I want to thank all of the fans for their support. I want them to enjoy the fight, and get to see the action in the ring they’ve been waiting for.”

JAMES KIRKLAND, Super Welterweight Contender:

“I know that I come with excitement, with what fight fans want to see. Knowing that my fans and supporters that are spending their hard earned money to come to this fight motivates me. I work just as hard as them when they are out there pushing that clock to make the money to come see the fight.

“My first meal after the fight? That’s classified information! [laughs] That’s going to be one hell of a good meal that I am going to eat after the fight. I’m a seafood guy, but I love it all, including the sweets. I’m definitely going to have my choice of meal after the fight.”

HUMBERTO SOTO, Former Three-Division World Champion:

“For my training camp, I’m at a high altitude in Temoaya, Mexico, near Centro Ceremonial Otomi. The altitude is almost 5,000 meters. The oxygen is excellent; my routine starts with a run on the morning, then I take a bath before breakfast. At 2:00 p.m., I go to the gym for a couple of hours, then back to the camp, bath, rest, eat, by the evening, sometimes, we watch some movies, play cards or just talk. Sometimes it can be tedious or monotonous but I know that’s the sacrifice that we all have to make to get big rewards.

“For my bout against Gomez on May 9, I know that will be a tough fight, a difficult one. We’re working hard to get the win. I know Gomez is dangerous, but I think that my experience and the fact that I also want to be a champion again will make the difference.”

JOSEPH DIAZ JR, 2012 U.S. Olympian and Featherweight Prospect:

“It’s a dream come true to be on the Canelo-Kirkland undercard. This is probably the biggest stage in my life to be fighting in front of a big crowd at this point.

“I’m not scared to fight in front of a big crowd at Minute Maid Park on May 9. I fought on a stage kind of similar in the 2012 Olympics. There where tens of thousands of people there and millions of people watching me in the United States and all around the world. I just have to zone out and focus on my opponent.

“After the weigh in, I’m probably going to eat some Italian food, maybe have a lot of carbs and some protein to replenish my muscles and make sure I am hydrated to be strong for the fight.”

TAISHAN, Heavyweight Prospect:

“Right now, I am focused on getting better in each fight, becoming victorious of course. Whether knockout or decision doesn’t matter. I feel better after each fight, and I’m staying focused and keeping my eye on the prize.

“My strategy for May 9 in the ring is to use my jab. The jab is the most important part of boxing; it’s everything.

“I’m not thinking about how big the crowd will be on May 9. It’s another stage, another fight, so I will go in and do what I need to do.”

RYAN MARTIN, Lightweight Prospect:

“Training camp has been an ongoing thing. I had a fight four weeks ago so I went right back into camp that Monday. Training camp has been very consistent; it’s going according to schedule, and I am ready to put on a show.

“I am not worrying about what my opponent brings to the ring. He is going to be worried about what I bring.

“It means a lot to me to be on the Canelo-Kirkland undercard. It’s very humbling to be a part of an event like this, and I am ready for it.”

JAMES LEIJA, Jr., Welterweight Prospect:

“My dad [Jesse James Leija] is behind me 100 percent. He’s my trainer and the best advice he has given me is to just relax and remain calm. No matter how big the crowd is, you tell yourself that you are just back in the gym.

“This is one of the biggest cards of the year, and I am very happy to be a part of it.

“Fans watching on May 9 can expect very skilled technical fighting from me. I am a student to the game first of all, having seen my father go through it as a professional boxer; seeing what works and what doesn’t. He’s telling me how to approach to game more scientifically rather than just going and being a brut.”

ALFONSO “EL TIGRE” LOPEZ, Light Heavyweight Contender:

“I’m really excited and overwhelmed. I want to put on a good performance for the fans. It’s a great opportunity for every fighter on this card because it’s such a huge event.

“I’ve been jabbing in the gym with the absolute best to prepare; he’s a Cuban southpaw. I’m ready to make this a smart fight, an intelligent one.”

EUGENE “MEAN GENE” HILL, Heavyweight Contender:

“I’m excited to fight on the undercard for Canelo Alvarez and James Kirkland.

“I’ve been training at a high pace so my opponent will have to fight me at a fast pace.

“This training camp, I’ve been training three times a day and eating right. I’m going to get the knockout.”

KEANDRE GIBSON, Welterweight Prospect:

“I’ve had a good training camp. Earlier in my camp, I got two to three weeks of sparring in with Manny Pacquiao for his fight with Floyd Mayweather and it was a great experience. I picked up a lot from him. Letting your hands go and throwing more punches, switching off from fast punches to power punches and tricks in the ring.

“Fans can expect action from me on May 9. They can expect a lot of speed, a lot of power, and a lot of punches. For me and my guy, we will be going toe to toe.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions:

“Canelo Alvarez is ready for this fight on May 9 against the ‘Mandingo Warrior’ James Kirkland. This fight is what the fans have been waiting for: action in the ring, top fighters going for it, not afraid to fight.

“There will be no running in the ring on May 9, that’s for sure. Once that first bell rings, fans watching the action live from Minute Maid Park and on HBO World Championship Boxing won’t be able to look away until it’s over, whether by knockout or decision.”

CURTIS “50 CENT” JACKSON, Founder and Chairman of SMS Promotions:

“Outside of the Manny-Floyd fight, this really is one of the biggest fights in boxing this year. Watching it at Minute Maid Park live is a must.

“Some of that same energy that Mike Tyson had, James has. That same killer instinct is there. You have some fighters that have fighter blood for real. That’s James. That leaves it to me to find the right for him because all he wants to do is fight. James is a guy that goes headfirst at the biggest opportunity.

“I like Ann Wolfe as a trainer. But, I did see James get down in weight faster this training camp with Rick Morones and Bay Bay McClinton.”

JESSE JAMES LEIJA, Texas Boxing Legend and Founder of Leija*Battah Promotions:

“He has so many different styles; he is almost like a chameleon. We trained so he could do a little bit of everything in that way so when he fights in the ring, the opponent will have to try figure out how to fight five different styles.

“It’s mind-blowing to think that my son is doing something that I did for so long. It’s one of the toughest sports in the world and it’s one of the scariest things to do for a parent to see one of their kids step into. It takes a lot of guts and a lot of courage for anyone to step into those four corners.”

MIKE BATTAH, President of Lieja*Battah Promotions:

“James Leija Jr. will be making his professional debut on Saturday’s mega-fight he will have a platform to showcase his skills.

“Capulin, Lopez, and Hill , who were out here today, have a great fan base in Texas and are here to represent. Fans will get to see some of their favorite fighters in the ring on Saturday.

Tickets for May 9 Canelo vs. Kirkland are priced at $350, $150, $100, $50 and $25, plus applicable fees and service charges, are available for purchase at Astros.com/boxing, the Minute Maid Park Box Office (Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, online at www.ticketmaster.com. There is a 19-ticket limit per household.

Canelo Alvarez vs. James Kirkland is a 12-round super welterweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions, SMS Promotions and Leija*Battah Promotions. The fight will take place Saturday, May 9 at Minute Maid Park in Houston and is sponsored by Corona Extra, Mexico – Live it to Believe it!, Fred Loya Insurance and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. CT and first bout starts at 11:10 a.m. CT, the HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx, www.smsboxing.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.astros.com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @SMS_Boxing, @HBOBoxing, @Canelo, @KOKirkland, @Astros @LeijaBattahPR become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/SMSBoxing, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing or www.facebook.com/astros and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @smsboxing and @HBOboxing, @Canelopower, @Kirklandsworld. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKirkland.

Oscar De La Hoya
Thank you very much to all the press. We are excited to be on this conference call. We are more than just a little over a couple weeks away with Canelo-Kirkland which will be a 12-round super welterweight showdown. It would be and it should be an explosive night, one to remember, live from Minute Maid Park in Houston. Tickets are going extremely well. Tickets are still available, so I urge you to get your tickets fast as we expect a sellout crowd.

I am extremely proud to be announcing that this event is being promoted by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions and SMS Promotions and Leija Battah Promotions. I want to thank the sponsors as well: Corona Extra and Mexico-Live it to Believe it, Fred Loya Insurance and also O’Reilly Auto Parts. Thank you for your support.

At this moment, I would like to introduce to you one of our partners at Golden Boy Promotions. He is the President of Leija Battah Promotions. Let me introduce to you Mike Battah.

Mike Battah
Thank you. I also want to thank the press for joining us today. We’re looking forward to a mega fight, a historical event in Houston on May 9th. You can’t miss it. I want to thank everybody for the people who purchased tickets, and it’s going to be an exciting event, and I’d also like to let the press know that my partner, Jesse James Leija, his son will be doing his pro debut fight on May 9th as well, and it’s going to be something to see. So, thank you. Thank you, fans. Thank you, Oscar and Golden Boy for letting us have an opportunity to partner with you.

O. De La Hoya
Thank you, Mike. Let me also introduce to you one fighter that doesn’t need no introduction. He is a boxing legend and a founder of Leija Battah Promotions; let me introduce to you to say a few words, Jesse James Leija.

Jesse James Leija
Thank you, Oscar, and to all the press and to the fans and the people listening, thank you very much for your work and thank you for your dedication to the sport of boxing, which I believe is one of the best sports in the world. It’s a true sport where it’s a man on man and you fight with your gloves on and the best man wins, and I think that the best man’s going to win on this night, May 9th at Minute Maid Park. We have two fighters that can end the fight with one punch. You have one fighter who’s super strong who can knock anybody out at any given moment in James Kirkland, and then you have a technician in boxing like you do in Canelo. It’s going to be a fight of whose will is going to overcome the other.

I’m excited for the fight. I’m excited for the fans. I’m excited for the sport of boxing, and I am excited my son will be making his pro debut too on the card with Canelo and Kirkland, and he’s doing it under Golden Boy Promotions and Leija Battah Promotions. I’m excited about the whole thing. It’s a great night for Texas. It’s a great night for boxing.

O. De La Hoya
Thank you. Thank you very much, Jesse. So,now to introduce to you Team Kirkland. It is my pleasure to be working with such a professional and a man that needs no introduction the world over. He is the Chairman and CEO of SMS Promotions. Let me introduce to you, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson.

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson
I want to start by saying I’m really excited about this event on May 9th. Getting into the sport of boxing and initially my relationship with Floyd Mayweather is what brought me and James Kirkland together, and the excitement connected to this fight will clearly be, I believe, the most exciting fight of the year, it has the makings of the most exciting. It would hands down been considered the most exciting fight of the year if they hadn’t made the Manny Pacquiao vs. Floyd Mayweather event, and it’s just because they’re so long anticipated that they think that between the two of them you’re going to see what the sport of boxing has to offer right now.

So, between May 2nd and May 9th, this is it right here, and the excitement of seeing James prepare himself in a faster time period than I’ve seen him prepare before, it obviously shows how much is on the line for this actual fight, and you’re definitely going to see the best version of James Kirkland come May 9th. So, I’m excited to introduce you guys to his trainer, Bay-Bay McClinton.

Bay-Bay McClinton
Hello, everyone. How are you doing? The time is coming close for May the 9th. I’m not going to stay on long, but just like I told everybody, Houston, we got a big ‘ole problem on May the 9th. That’s all I got to say. Everybody, be excited for this fight.

C. Jackson
So, now I’d like to introduce everyone to James Kirkland.

James Kirkland
Hey. What’s going on, everybody? I’m just overwhelmed, and I just want to thank Golden Boy Promotions and SMS Promotions. I want to thank all the leaders, Oscar La Hoya and the people that’s actually there for me that they grind into sand and all the support teams that’s really been there from day one pushing and being the motivating people that I need for the fight. By supporting my transition and working and doing everything that I need to do to take care of business May 9. So, I’m eager for the opportunity and I’m more than I’m ready for May 9 to take place. Like I say, once again, man, promos, I want to give thanks to God for this opportunity and the leaders and the boxers in boxing.

O. De La Hoya
Thank you very much, ’50,’ and thank you very much, James. I just want to point out to you that we have a long day of fights beginning at 11 a.m. Central Time. The HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 9 p.m. Eastern/Pacific Time, and tickets are still available. You can get tickets from $10 all the way to $350 for a ringside seat. So, now we can open it up for questions for James Kirkland.

Q
Thank you very much. Hello, everybody. Hey, James, it’s good to talk to you today. My first question for you is could you explain to us what is the reason why you haven’t fought since that big victory you had against Glen Tapia in 2013. You’ve been out almost a year-or more than a year and a half.

J. Kirkland
Basically, I was just getting prepared for an opportunity like this, and at the same time, I wanted to learn a lot of stuff about boxing that I didn’t know. It just goes on into a lot of different things, but most definitely I’m prepared and I’m thankful for this opportunity.

Q
During that period of time where you were not boxing, while you were, like you said, learning about I guess the business side, were you disappointed that you did not get a fight in that course of time to follow up on that good victory, make a good payday, get some more exposure, etc.?

J. Kirkland
Most definitely, but I can’t cry over spilled milk. But one thing I can say is that the things that I have learned and the course that actually take place is actually a positive thing and never did I actually stop being in the gym and stop working. So, I’m always hands-on in the gym and participating in any way.

Q
My other question for you is there’s been a lot of discussion among fans anyway that say boy, why would James Kirkland after the sorts of success he has had split again from Ann Wolfe, his trainer, who you two have done good things together because when you were not with her the last time was when you suffered your only defeat. What is the reason why you’re not training with Ann for this fight?

J. Kirkland
One of the reasons is that I just have to put out there is that the techniques and the things that I need to work on, to be able to win the fight, the strategies are what I have taken away when I was with Ann Wolfe. So, I know a lot of the fans, say, ‘you won, you had so much success with Ann’ and I know and understand this but at the same time, I know there was a lot more to the table that I needed to bring. I needed to harden, create more determination and I will eagerly take advantage of my opponent. You can’t take that away from me. Before I met Ann, that’s always been me, but when I need more-I thought that I needed more to bring to the table than something that I already have and possess. So, that’s what made me move on and I feel it is a smart decision.

Q
Okay. So, who will be your head trainer for this fight then, or who is your head trainer in your camp?

J. Kirkland: Rick Morones.

Q
Hi, thank you. I’ve got a question for James. It’s kind of like the last question. You’ve been out of the ring since 2013, and you have not gone past ten rounds in your career. Are you prepared to go 12 rounds, or is your plan to try to end it early?

J. Kirkland
My plan is if it was scheduled for 20 rounds, I’m going to preparate myself and make sure I can go 30 rounds. So, therefore, if it ends early, it ends early, but most definitely, I plan on it being an action-packed fight. So, anything is going to be able to happen in this fight. It can be the first round, the second round, it can even be the 12th round. So, whatever amount of rounds that it takes for this particular fight, I’m willing to go all the way. I’m willing to cut it in half. I’m ready to take it in the first or second round. So, it doesn’t really matter just long as I put the work in and do what I possess in training.

Q
Hey, James. You said the reason you took this fight was to-because you saw something in Canelo’s style that you thought you could-made you believe you could beat him. What was that? What did you see in his style that gave you the confidence that you could beat this guy?

J. Kirkland
Man, I don’t even know how to respond to your question. I would love to say something like next, but I’m like how can I respond to that? I’m a fighter. So, if I see something and it’s something that may be a plus for me is what I see. So, therefore, I’m going to take that information that I feel that is a plus and use it when it comes May 9th.

Q
Well, I know you feel like you can knock him out. Do you think you have the power necessary to knock Canelo out?

J. Kirkland
I definitely feel that I have the power, the will, the confidence, the speed and the heart and determination. I feel like I have the whole package. People wants to say that, ‘oh, Kirkland got suspect all the fights’ that I had, I took one loss, which I really didn’t take training camp serious. I didn’t look at it as being 100% focused. It was in Vegas and I was having a good time, and like I say, I really didn’t take it 100%, and now, since I actually took that defeat, I’ve been preparating myself and putting myself in a position so that now that when it comes May 9th, I can let it all be shown.

Q
We ran into you in Vegas a few years ago and you saw Canelo and you told me, “I want that guy.” Now that it’s here, how exciting is this for you and how big an opportunity is this to get to that world championship you’ve been chasing for years?

J. Kirkland
Man, it’s just-this is one of the opportunities, like I say, I’ve been wanting. So, since the layoff and they end up came knocking at the door and I answered and I went straight to it and said hey, this is a must, dude, this is a fight that I know the fans wants to see. It’s a fight that I’m truly prepared for. At the same time, man, like you said, I’ve definitely been prepared to make things happen and believe this is my opportunity.

Q
As far as the city of Austin, not hugely known for boxing, but people like Jesus Chavez and Ann Wolfe and yourself could put it on the map, how big would it be for you to become the third world champions held from this city?

J. Kirkland
It’s definitely that’s been something part of a dream. I’ve been wanting an opportunity. It felt like it’s been slipping from my hand for so long and it continued to slip and continued to slip, but I felt like at this opportunity there’s going to bring it to the point that that’s going to be the next thing popping or it’s going to be knocking at the door at this particular fight.

Q
One more question, James. I know it hasn’t been an easy road for you, layoffs, going to jail and getting out and starting back over. Do you look at this as your last big chance to climb that mountain and win a championship?

J. Kirkland
I definitely feel like I got a lot to lose putting on the table. I feel like there’s a lot that’s been involved in this. So, I can elaborate and keep going on and on about the situation and how much it means to me, but this is something that has been destined for me to take care of business when it come May 9th, and I feel like I got the right team with me, backing me and supporting me, and working on things that I need to do to take care of things May 9th.

Q
Hey, good afternoon, champ. This is Steve from Houston, Texas. Thanks for your time today. Over the past five to six years, you’ve had some great matchups with Joel Julio, Alfredo Angulo. So, far, what has been your biggest victory, and how will your victory over Canelo Alvarez overcome that victory that you’ve had in the past?

J. Kirkland: Man, I can’t even say what fight was one of my biggest victories. I can say Alfredo Angulo, I can say Joel Julio, I can name a few of them, but overall, just me being able to go to these training camps and preparation for is one of the major victories and actually being able to devour my opponent and get the W is something that I feel that that is the victory, but at the end of the day, man, I’m really focused and been training and taking care of the things that I need to take care of so when fight nights take place it’s going to be sensational.

Q
That’s great. And one of the things that really makes this matchup so interesting is the fact that both guys have a common opponent which is Alfredo Angulo. You faced Angulo arguably when he was at a much better state than when Canelo did. It took you only six rounds to defeat Angulo whereas it took Canelo over ten rounds. Is that any indication of really the type of mental fortitude and force that you can bring to this fight, and is that something that Canelo Alvarez will be able to handle?

J. Kirkland
One thing I can say is that the preparation for that fight was great and we worked really hard as far as in training camp, but I can say this-this training camp that I actually had here that I’ve been in and involved in has been harder than that particular training camp. So, when it actually say questionably like Alfredo Angulo, was he on top at the time that I fought him and was he a lot better a fighter? I can still say that he’s an awesome fighter, and a lot of great things can happen with him if someone was to do right by him, but overall, I feel that when it comes fight night, I will be a lot sharper, a lot more, at that particular point that night, but a lot more of everything involved. So, it’s going to definitely be like what people say a must watch, a fight fans want to see type of fight.

Q
Right. And one last question, James-you’re a Texas native, and for some reason Canelo Alvarez is the favorite. You’re sort of being perceived as the underdog here arguably in your backyard. To the fans that don’t know who James Kirkland is, what can you tell them that will be the biggest threat to Canelo Alvarez and that will get you the victory?

J. Kirkland
I can just tell people this when they ask about boxing and what can I bring to the sport or how I picture myself: I am a force of nature that overrides a lot of the people that I fight. When they come with heart, I believe my heart is bigger than that. When they come with determination, I don’t feel no one has the will power and the drive that I possess. When it come to speed, I don’t feel as if the opponent is going to be able to adapt, and if they do, there is something else I bring outside and it’s something else that they can do, and I always got a step on top of step above my opponent. That’s how I actually feel. So, I feel when they ask about it, it’s going to be a fight that you don’t have to worry about if they’re going to run, if this person’s going to be dodging and ducking and looking for somewhere to run and hide and tuck tail, me and Canelo will meet in the middle of the ring and that’s where the fight will take place, and we may stay there the whole entire fight if he’s going to come to fight like I’m coming to fight, that will be that particular fight that fans want to see.

Q
Hello, James. How are you? I wanted to ask you a question about your next fight. Canelo has already agreed to fight Miguel Cotto for the middleweight championship if he wins. Would you like to inherit that place if you win? Would you like to fight Miguel Cotto next, or what are your plans for after this fight?

J. Kirkland
I definitely would like to fight Miguel Cotta because I know that just as well as everybody on this fight, and they want to see this happen, at the same time, a lot of fight fans are speaking about what was the, likelihood of Kirkland and Miguel Cotto fighting, and that is something that I had on my radar just as much as Alvarez has. Because I know that he’s a fighter, he brings the fight and he wants to come just as well as Canelo Alvarez does. So, we’re all three the same type of fighters, and we all definitely want the same thing, the victory and the win and we all got heart. So, do I want to fight somebody just like me who got the same type of drive as me? I would love that opportunity and I don’t know why everybody is speaking about a fight before a fight because like they say, anything can happen in a fight, and my preparations for the fight is definitely taking the right course and preparating for the fight and for the victory.

Q
Does it bother you that Canelo has already agreed to fight even though he has a fight with you, a very difficult fight with you ahead of him? Does it make a difference in your mindset?

J. Kirkland
I just feel that maybe this fight and they’re overlooking at it like okay, this is going to be a walkthrough or one of those type of fight, first, second round type ordeals that they can make happen, and I appreciate the-I love the motivation, I love the heart and courage that is going to be one of those type of nights, but I definitely feel it’s going to be on the other side of the table if the shoe was on the other foot. So, at the end of the day, man, it’s easy to say, man, I don’t like talk boxing, I just do it. So, overall, I’m just prepared for May 9th to take place.

Q
Hey, James. You said a few weeks ago that you’re already on weight and that you were working on strategy and it’s been a great camp. What would it mean to you to get the victory over Canelo in your home state of Texas?

J. Kirkland
Man, definitely something that I’ve been preparing for since the beginning of camp. I’m definitely already like you say on weight and taking care of business when it comes to the training part. But overall, I’m going to take care of business on May 9th. So, definitely I’m encouraged and I’m anxious, and it’s just something that is going to be something that I’m proving not just to myself and to the city but just to my fight fans that James Kirkland truly is a warrior and he deserves a world title shot.

Q
Hello. When you spoke with Dan originally and he asked you about your split from Ann Wolfe, you said that you thought that basically the things that she could work with you on you already had and was something that couldn’t be taken away from you. That being the case, would you say with your new trainers, are you working in a way that she couldn’t in sharpening your tools that you already have which are considerable, or are there new tools that you’re going to be bringing to this battle?

J. Kirkland
I want to kind of clear it up. I don’t want to take anything away from Ann Wolfe’s value. She was an awesome strength and conditioning coach, and she knows the things that she knows to take it to the next level. Certain things that I wanted to add to this particular training camp are the things that I added to this. There are things that I needed to improve and things that I wanted to work on that I felt that I wasn’t going to get from Ann Wolfe. So, those are the things that I worked on, those are the things that I have prepared myself for, these are the things that I took care of. So, at the end of the day, I believe that the tools and the things that I’ve been working on are going to take me to the finish line and give me the victory at the end of the day.

Q
Got it. So, would you say that those tools-would you say that they’re new? Are we going to see something different? Are we just going to see like a more upgraded view of you on the 9th?

J. Kirkland
There’s some more, I have a more strategized defense, exposure at the same time being able to move and adjust to certain things that you haven’t seen in Kirkland. The things that you seen me lack in from hands, so from anything that it may be when you see Kirkland lack on is the things you’re going to be able to see Kirkland advance and enhance his ability.

Operator
James, can you give your final comments?

J. Kirkland
Okay. Well, final comments, I just want to say that overall I appreciate Golden Boy, HBO, SMS Promotions. I definitely want to just thank everybody for the opportunity and the people that are sponsoring the fight from Leija* Battah to all the people that are actually in the sport that’s actually backing this fight up, and just having just the drive for the sport, I appreciate it. Thanks to the fans, and the upmost, I want to give thanks to God for the opportunity. Thank you, and I appreciate everybody.

Operator
Thank you, and Curtis Jackson, may we have your final comments?

C. Jackson
Again, you got a chance to hear James. We didn’t hear much from Canelo. We’re going to get him on in a little bit, but this is exciting, and neither one of them wants to be as disrespectful as they are in the training camp itself. The intensity is a lot higher and the statements and the things that are said while they’re disciplining themselves, but they going to get a chance to see it the night of May 9th. It’s going to be exciting, and so, everyone tune in if you can’t get to it, but come down to the stadium. Again, there’s tickets still available so you should rush down now and get them before they sell out.

Operator: Thank you, and now we’ll turn the call back over to Oscar De La Hoya.

O. De La Hoya
Thank you very much. We are now ready to introduce Team Canelo. His trainer and manager is on the call with us to say a few words. Let me introduce to you Chepo Reynoso.

Chepo Reynoso
Good afternoon, everybody. I hope everybody is well, and I’m just happy to be here taking care of any questions you may have.

O. De La Hoya
Chepo is ready and Canelo is ready. So, let’s move on to Canelo. Really a man who needs no introduction. His record speaks for itself. He has a record of 44 and 1 with 31 KOs out of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. At the tender young age of 24 years old, he’s already faced some of the most avoided fighters on the planet today. Let me introduce to you Saul Canelo Alvarez. Saul?

Canelo Alvarez
Good afternoon. It’s a pleasure to be here with you.

O. De La Hoya
Great. So, now we can open it up for questions. Thank you.

Q
Okay, great. First of all, I’d like you to ask Canelo, he’s coming back to another city in Texas in Houston when he was in San Antonio a couple years ago and he had that huge crowd for the Austin Trout fight. I want to know how pumped up is he because by all accounts, you’re going to have another crowd similar in size in a different city in Houston for this fight. How much does he feel that love from his fans, particularly the Mexicans and the Mexican-Americans and get him motivated, let’s say, for this kind of fight?

C. Alvarez
No, it motivates me tremendously. That’s what gives me that extra push to train harder, to have the support from the fans, all the love is what gives me the extra drive to train harder because it’s also a big responsibility and that’s where the discipline and the dedication takes in, to work hard.

Q
Another question I had for him, Robert, is he’s been off for a bit because of the injury to the foot so he did not fight in the fall after having a couple of fights in the earlier part of last year. I want to know how is his foot and does he feel that there’s any issue because he’s been off for quite a while at this point.

C. Alvarez
No, I feel real good. I’m healed up. I’ve been training for a while now. I’ve been here three and a half months working and training, preparing my body, preparing myself for this fight, looking forward to the fight. My body is clean and it gets in condition pretty quick, so I’m ready. I feel very well.

Q
Terrific. Another question for him also, and this is regarding the fact that there’s already a deal in place that should he win the fight May 9th and that should Miguel Cotto win his middleweight championship fight in June that they would meet each other in what would be a very big Pay-Per-View in the fall, and I’d like to know from Canelo does he view that in any way, some would say maybe by having that huge fight in front of him, it might be a distraction to what’s going to happen on May 9th, others would perhaps say it’s the motivation because they know they got to win to get to that huge fight. What are his thoughts about having this fight with Kirkland but knowing that he has the impending fight with Cotto down the road?

O. De La Hoya
This is Oscar. There is no deal done whatsoever.

Q
Oscar, you know that’s not true, my friend. Maybe you didn’t sign the paper, but we know that the deal is agreed to. Come on. It’s a reasonable question. Is Canelo going to answer that?

C. Alvarez:
At this particular time, my only opponent, my only focus, my only goal right now is James Kirkland. That’s who I’m focusing on. There’s been talks of that fight. There’s been talks of that fight with Cotto for a long time, yes, but right now, my focus is on James Kirkland. There’s nothing else.

Q
I had a quick question. I feel in the last few fights that you’ve had that you have the same style, you’ve approached them all the same way. Can we expect to see anything different coming into this Kirkland fight, or is there anything that you changed in this training camp that will showcase any of your other boxing skills?

C. Alvarez
You’re always learning in this game. You’re always going back to the gym and correcting some mistakes and learn from that and try new things. Sometimes the opponents aren’t willing to engage and participate, but it’s a part of the game to learn and we’re going to do our part and hope that the fans leave very happy.

Q
Okay, great. And then another question-when can we expect to see Canelo back in San Antonio?

C. Alvarez
At this time, I can’t answer that. I don’t know. It’s definitely like to go back. The people have always treated me well and loved me there. So, definitely we’d like to go back, but right now, I can’t tell you that because I don’t know.

Q: You had an opportunity to fight Kirkland back in 2011. Then, the fight didn’t happen. It’s been now a few years. Why even take the risk in giving Kirkland this opportunity after his inactivity, your inactivity and knowing that he’s such a big puncher?

C. Alvarez
Yes. It’s a fight that’s been talked about many years because it’s a very good fight. He’s one of the most dangerous fighters in the division, and there was an injury back there that didn’t let the fight happen, but now this is the fight that we’re at, and that’s why we’re preparing ourselves with knowing what we have in front of us and training really hard and we’re ready for the fight.

Q
You fought different styles, a difficult style in Mayweather, a standup aggressive style in Angulo, a runner like Lara, and now you’re facing one of the biggest punchers. What is the goal? You’re fighting all the different styles. You just want to fight them because you’re fighting the best or you’re fighting also to prepare for bigger fights down the road?

C. Alvarez
No, my goal is always to fight the best, the best in the world, that the fans get what they want: to see the best fights possible and independent of their styles. As long as they’re at the top, I want to fight the best.

Q
It’s finally done, the Mayweather/Pacquiao fight even if it’s a little old, we’re towards the end of their careers, but it’s finally happened, two of the bigger names in boxing. Once they’ve retired, are you ready to take on that role of the Pay-Per-View king, the Pay-Per-View star, and how do you feel about that?

C. Alvarez
I’m ready. I’m ready for whatever comes to my career. I work hard, I train hard, I fight the best, and if that’s the role that I have to take once they’re gone, then yes, I’m ready for it.

Q
You recuperated from the injury. You mentioned it earlier. What kind of strategy do you have now that you’re facing such a strong, aggressive fighter that comes forward and is a big puncher?

C.Alvarez
Yes, absolutely, recovered from the injury. That’s in the past, that’s behind me. Right now, we’re just working really hard. We know what James brings to the table. He’s a very dangerous, very strong and come-forward fighter, and that’s what we’re working for. That’s why we have the correct sparring partners working hard every day, working on strategy. We just have to be more intelligent and prepared and ready for it on fight night.

Q
The question is so many fighters are so concerned of only fighting in casinos. You seem to be getting out of that and fighting and filling arenas, what you did in San Antonio and now probably what you’re doing here in Houston filling that up as well. Do you want to continue that and maybe going on to even bigger stadiums and why not 50, 60, 70,000 people around the world?

C. Alvarez
No, I’ll fight anywhere. I’ll fight. As long as the fans go and enjoy the fights and walk out happy, I can fight anywhere. It doesn’t matter.

Q
There’s talks about a Miguel Cotto fight. There’s talks about other fights. Obviously, there’s the Mayweather/Pacquiao fight. If everything comes out well against Kirkland, in the future, you’re more mature, you’re more experienced, would you like a rematch with Mayweather if he is to beat Pacquiao?

C. Alvarez
Yes, of course, I would love it. It would interest me. I’ve learned more things, there’s more experience, but right now, this fight is what’s more important to me, and that’s James Kirkland on the 9th.

Q
You said that James Kirkland is a dangerous fighter. I wonder if you could describe James Kirkland as a fighter. What kind of style does he bring to the table?

C. Alvarez
Yes, he’s a very dangerous fighter because of his punch. His power is extreme. He can finish the fight with one punch, and then he also throws out of different angles, punches are coming from all angles, so it makes it even more complicated, more difficult, but more than anything, it’s that power that he can finish a fight with one punch.

Q
Have you fought anybody with comparable power to Kirkland? Have you fought anybody with that much power before?

C. Alvarez
At this particular moment, I can say no, but ask me the same question after the fight and then I can tell you how I feel his punches.

Q
Yes. Well, you’ve fought a lot of different styles. Do you prefer to fight a guy like Kirkland who you know where he’s going to be rather than Lara, Mayweather, guys like that?

C. Alvarez
Yes, I’ll fight any style. I’ll be clear-I’ll fight any style. I’m ready and willing to fight anybody, but the fans like this style because that’s the fans, what they go to see. They want to go see action, and these are the kind of fights that where the people will leave happy.

Q
Do you predict it’s going to end early before you think it’ll go the distance?

C. Alvarez
People are talking and the percentages are that it’s going to be a knockout, that it won’t make the distance, but I’m preparing myself for 12 rounds. I don’t like to predict or talk about a knockout. If it comes, great. If not, I’m trained and ready to go 12 hard rounds.

Q
Over the past few years, we’ve had boxing greats like Morales, Barrera, Marcos exit the sport, and the boxing world is looking for the next big Mexican superstar. Do you feel you’ve done enough to fill that void or that role, or do you need another victory to make that happen for you?

C. Alvarez
I’m working hard, I’m training hard. I’m taking the tough fights, the biggest fights, the biggest challenges. They people will put me where I belong. Of course, that’s what I’m here in the sport to be one of the biggest names and to be one of the greats, but only time will tell, and I’ll just keep doing my job.

Q
This last Saturday Chavez Jr. lost in the big fight. Does that give you an example or give you an idea about in the future moving up in weight?

C. Alvarez
No, I don’t use that as an example. I keep doing my job, my work dedicated with a lot of discipline, and I’ve never used anybody else’s examples. It’s just what I do, my work and my dedication.

Operator: Thank you. I’ll now turn it over to Team Canelo for your closing remarks.

C. Alvarez
I just want to thank all the press for all the support and all the media attention they’re giving it, giving my fight, giving our fight. I want to thank the fans for all the love and that I’m ready and I can’t wait to see them all on May 9th.

Operator: Thank you, and now I’ll turn the call back over to Oscar De La Hoya for his closing remarks.

O. De La Hoya: Thank you very much. Thank you to all the press, to both teams, and we will see you on May 9th in Houston. Gracias.

Operator: Thank you. And thank you, ladies and gentlemen. This concludes today’s conference. Thank you for participating. You may now disconnect.

Photos and video assets including b-roll from Canelo Alvarez and James Kirkland’s media workouts are available for use for TV broadcast and website embedding. Download instructions are below:

FTP LOGIN:
https://ftp.goldenboyllc.com
Username: workouts
Password: !Olympic777!
Credit: Golden Boy Promotions
Click HERE to Download Photos
Photo Credit: HoganPhotos/Golden Boy Promotion

Tickets for Canelo vs. Kirkland are priced at $350, $150, $100, $50, $25 and $10, plus applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale now and available for purchase at Astros.com/boxing, the Minute Maid Park Box Office (Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, online at www.ticketmaster.com. There is a 19-ticket limit per household.

Canelo Alvarez vs. James Kirkland is a 12-round super welterweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions, SMS Promotions and Leija*Battah Promotions. The fight will take place Saturday, May 9 at Minute Maid Park in Houston Texas and is sponsored by Corona Extra, Mexico – Live it to Believe it!, Fred Loya Insurance and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. CT and first bout starts at 11:10 a.m. CT, the HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

An all-new edition of 24/7 Alvarez/Kirkland debuts Tuesday, May 5 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on HBO.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx, www.smsboxing.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.astros.com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @SMS_Boxing, @HBOBoxing, @Canelo, @KOKirkland, @Astros @LeijaBattahPR become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/SMSBoxing, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing or www.facebook.com/astros and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @smsboxing and @HBOboxing, @Canelopower, @Kirklandsworld. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKirkland.

LOS ANGELES (April 6) – Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez hosted a special roundtable on Thursday, April 2 at The Belasco Theater, with members of the media to discuss his upcoming bout against Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto, which will serve as the co-main event for Canelo Alvarez vs. James Kirkland on May 9 at Minute Maid Park, Houston. Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions and Peter Nelson, HBO Sports Vice President of Programming were also in attendance.

Below is what they had to say at the roundtable:

FRANKIE GOMEZ, Super Lightweight Contender:

“I would like to thank Golden Boy Promotions and HBO for giving me the opportunity to show the world what I can do in the ring. I plan to conquer the 140 weight class and May 9 is a great way to show the fans my strengths as a fighter.

“Soto has a lot of experience, he is a former world champion, and I know our fight will be exciting. I like the pressure of this fight. It motivates me to train harder.

“I am training at 100 percent to make sure I am ready for May 9. This is not going to be an easy fight. I will plan to go 10 rounds against Soto.

“After Soto, the next step is take on world champions. I am ready and I know I have to train with the best and be disciplined. By the end of this year, I think I will be ready for someone like Danny Garcia, but it also depends on the plans that my manager and Golden Boy Promotions have for me.

“I have trained with both Lucas Matthysse and Ruslan Provodnikov, and I can’t decide who will win the fight on April 18. They are both great, aggressive fighters. Ruslan keeps coming at you, he is relentless and Lucas is a fast, hard puncher. It’s going to be a tough fight.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions:

“We are announcing the return of Frankie Gomez; we are all excited to see a young fighter with so much talent take on a tough fighter like Humberto Soto on May 9. Soto is a dangerous fighter who is undefeated since 2012 and beat John Molina last year.

“We are happy and grateful to HBO for the opportunity to show this tremendous, action-packed fight. HBO is about bringing the best fights to the fans, everything else is just boxing.

“140-147 pounds is the weight class for Frankie. It’s an exciting weight class that is full of talented fights and world champions. The weight class has young and veterans fighters and Frankie will challenge the very best. We believe in Frankie and support him 100 percent..

“Canelo vs. Kirkland is the perfect spot to showcase the next generation, the next world champion, and Frankie is the future. He will be fighting in front of 40,000 roaring fans and it’s the perfect launching pad for Frankie. We know he is ready and we know he wants this.

“The audience will be watching a young fighter who is the whole package. He is smart, aggressive, fast and has explosive punching power. People will love him. May 9is just the beginning for Frankie.

“Frankie has a hunger, humility and passion that are missing in a lot of fighters today. I have seen him in the ring during his fights and during his training and I can see that there is passion and fire in his style. There is something special about Frankie and it’s just a matter of bringing it out. We need to guide him towards his goal to becoming a world champion.

“Freddie Roach is a genius. He knows how to bring out the best in a fighter. He is an aggressive trainer that will get you in great shape but at the same time Freddie is smart and teaches a fighter to be smart. I think he is the perfect trainer for Frankie. I know he will guide him in the right direction.”

PETER NELSON, HBO Sports Vice President of Programing:

“We are privileged to have him on the network against the great Humberto Soto. This will be one of the best shows on May 9, in Houston, Texas. We know this is a major step in his career.

“We believe that Frankie has the potential to carve a name for himself in the sport. He comes from a great amateur pedigree.

“I saw him sparring with Ruslan Provodnikov at Wild Card Boxing Gym, and he was impressive.”

A stellar amateur who won the 2009 United States Championship and earned a silver medal in the 2009 World Championships, East Los Angeles’ Frankie “Pitbull” Gomez (18-0, 13 KOs) has impressed every step of the way since then. Owner of 12 knockouts in three rounds or less, Gomez can also box when he wants to, as shown in his near-shutout victory over longtime contender Vernon Paris last July. Gomez is ranked eighth in the world by the IBF. On May 9 as the co-main event for Canelo Alvarez vs. James Kirkland at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas, Gomez will attempt to make the move into the title picture with a victory over Humberto “La Zorrita” Soto. Gomez is under the tutelage of multiple winner “Trainer of the Year” and International Boxing Hall of Famer Freddie Roach.

Tickets for May 9 Canelo vs. Kirkland are priced at $350, $150, $100, $50, $25 and $10, plus applicable fees and service charges, and are on sale now and available for purchase at Astros.com/boxing, the Minute Maid Park Box Office (Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000, online at www.ticketmaster.com. There is a 19-ticket limit per household.

Canelo Alvarez vs. James Kirkland is a 12-round super welterweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions in association with Canelo Promotions, SMS Promotions and Leija*Battah Promotions. The fight will take place Saturday, May 9 at Minute Maid Park in Houston Texas and is sponsored by Corona Extra, Mexico – Live it to Believe it!, Fred Loya Insurance and O’Reilly Auto Parts. Doors open at 2:00 p.m. CT and first bout starts at 2:10 p.m. CT, the HBO World Championship Boxing telecast begins at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT.

An all-new edition of 24/7 Alvarez/Kirkland debuts Tuesday, May 5 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.canelopromotions.com.mx, www.smsboxing.com, www.hbo.com/boxing and www.astros.com/boxing, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @SMS_Boxing, @HBOBoxing, @Canelo, @KOKirkland, @Astros @LeijaBattahPR become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/SMSBoxing, www.facebook.com/HBOBoxing or www.facebook.com/astros and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @smsboxing and @HBOboxing, @Canelopower, @Kirklandsworld. Follow the conversation using #CaneloKirkland.

April 2, 2015 –Fight fans captivated by the fast-approaching welterweight unification title fight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao can enjoy a revealing look at Pacquiao’s brilliant ring career when HBO Sports presents three of his all-time classic bouts back-to-back.

On Friday, April 17 at 11:00 p.m. (ET/PT) and Saturday, April 18 at 8:15 a.m. (ET/PT), HBO2 will replay Pacquiao vs. Bradley II 2014, Pacquiao vs. Cotto 2009 and Pacquiao vs. De La Hoya 2008 back-to-back.

In the bright spotlight of Las Vegas on April 12, 2014, Manny Pacquiao avenged a controversial loss with a dominating performance over then undefeated Timothy Bradley Jr. in their championship title rematch.

Pacquiao’s reputation as slugger was solidified on November 14, 2009 with a resounding 12th round TKO triumph over Miguel Cotto at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Rounding out the three-hour Manny fight marathon will be Pacquiao’s signature triumph over Oscar de la Hoya on Dec. 5, 2008 that catapulted the young prizefighter from the Philippines into a superstar personality. The fight was halted in the 8th round as Pacquiao’s unrelenting attack dominated the action.

All three fights will also be available 24 hours a day to HBO On Demand® and HBO GO® subscribers beginning Monday, April 20.

The Mayweather vs. Pacquiao mega-fight takes place Saturday, May 2 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas live on pay-per-view beginning at 9:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. PT.

Los Angeles (Feb. 12) – Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions, unveiled details for the new LA FIGHT CLUB monthly boxing series that will take place in downtown Los Angeles during a press conference at The Belasco Theater yesterday, Feb. 11. LA FIGHT CLUB will be featuredas part of the popular, fan-favorite Golden Boy Live! serieson FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes and is set to premiere on Friday, March 6.

The press conference hosted by Oscar De La Hoya, was attended by Joseph “Jo Jo” Diaz Jr. (14-0, 9 KOs) who is headlining the March 6 event against Mexican brawler Geovanny “Lloviznas” Delgado (15-2, 9 KOs) in a 10-round super bantamweight bout.

Also in attendance to discuss their upcoming bouts at LA FIGHT CLUB were super featherweight knockout artist Christian “Chimpa” Gonzalez (8-0, 8 KOs) who will be featured in the six-round co-main event. Los Angeles natives Santiago “El Lobito” Guevara (8-0, 3 KOs) and Carlos “The Solution” Morales (6-1-3, 3 KOs) were on-site to discuss their upcoming super featherweight six-round televised opening bout. Irish middleweight prospect Jason Quigley (3-0, 3 KOs) was on-hand to talk about his four-round middleweight fight against Lanny Dardar (2-2-2, 1 KOs) of Houma, Louisiana.

Other fighters featured in separate non-televised undercard fights that participated in the press conference included Roy Tapia (10-0-1, 5 KOs), Cesar “The Great” Quiñonez (1-0, 1 KO), Jesus Delgado (3-0-1, 1 KO) and Emilio Sanchez (6-0, 5 KOs).

Tickets are on sale now and are priced at $20 for general admission (including on-camera ringside standing only pit access), $40 for lounge-style balcony seats and $80 for reserved ringside floor seats and first row balcony seats. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking HERE and at www.goldenboypromotions.com or by visiting the Golden Boy Promotions Facebook page. For ticket information, email LAFightClub@goldenboypromotions.com.

Below is what the fighters had to say during the press conference at The Belasco Theater in downtown Los Angeles:

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions:

“We are really excited about LA FIGHT CLUB. We staged it a few years back, and it was a total success. We had fighters go on to win championship fights after being on the original Fight Night Club, and we are proud to be showcasing Los Angeles talent.

“LA FIGHT CLUB is about intimacy, being up close and personal to the ring and experiencing the action. You might even get some sweat or blood on you. That’s what LA FIGHT CLUB is about.

“LA FIGHT CLUB will be a farming system for Golden Boy Promotions. We know every fighter on these shows will eventually graduate to the national stage and eventually move on to fight championship fights on various platforms whether its HBO, Showtime or Pay-Per-View.

“If you want to come down and entertain some clients or bring your family and friends, we welcome you at LA FIGHT CLUB. You will be up close and personal with the fighters.”

JOSEPH “JO JO” DIAZ, JR., Super Bantamweight Prospect:

“March 6 is going to be a great card. I’m excited to be the main event at LA FIGHT CLUB. I know this will be my toughest fight to date.

“It’s going to be a really great night of boxing. I am very excited to be fighting in my hometown as well. My hometown fans are very excited to come out to support me. Come March 6 I will be ready to give everyone a great show and give the fans a great night of boxing.”

CHRISTIAN “CHIMPA” GONZALEZ,Super Featherweight Prospect:

“I want to thank the media for being here and Golden Boy Promotions for this opportunity. It’s a privilege for me to be fighting on an undercard like this with my good friend Joseph Diaz Jr., who is the main event. It’s a pleasure.

“Make sure you guys tune in and get your tickets because it will be a night to remember on March 6.”

SANTIAGO “EL LOBITO” GUEVARA, Super Featherweight Prospect:

“I’m happy to be fighting in my hometown. I feel really motivated to start this new series with Golden Boy Promotions. I’m looking to give everyone a great show. I feel really motivated for this fight and I’m glad to be back on TV.”

CARLOS “THE SOLUTION” MORALES, Super Featherweight Prospect:

“I’m grateful to Golden Boy Promotions for giving me this chance to be part of Los Angeles live boxing.

“I couldn’t be any more excited than this.”

JASON QUIGLEY, Middleweight Prospect:

“It’s an honor and a pleasure to be here. I want to thank my management team and Golden Boy Promotions. I moved over here from Ireland to Los Angeles and it’s my second home now. What better way to let the people of Los Angeles know that I’m here and see what I can do in the ring.

“I think it’s going to be an absolutely brilliant show on March 6. It’s going to excite the people of Los Angeles. It’s an honor to be fighting here in downtown Los Angeles. I came here to achieve my goals and dreams.”

ROY TAPIA, Super Bantamweight Prospect:

“Thank you to my team and my manager, Cesar Garcia, Oscar De La Hoya and Golden Boy Promotions for believing in me and giving me this opportunity to be part of LA FIGHT CLUB.

“I’m excited that this series is coming back to LA, my backyard. I’m happy to show everyone what I can do on March 6.”

CESAR “THE GREAT” QUIÑONEZ, Super Lightweight Prospect:

“I’d like to thank Golden Boy, I’m blessed. I’d like to thank my team. I’ve been working hard. I’m ready to move forward and give you guys a great show on March 6.”

JESUS DELGADO, Lightweight Prospect:

“I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions, my manager and my team for this opportunity.

“Ever since I signed with Golden Boy Promotions I’m feel extra motivated. I can’t wait to put on a great show on March 6.”

EMILIO SANCHEZ, Super Bantamweight Prospect:

“I’m very excited to fight at LA FIGHT CLUB. I’m ready to give a great fight on March 6.”

# # #

LA FIGHT CLUB: Diaz vs. Delgado is a 10-round super bantamweight bout presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Mexico Live It To Believe It!. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bout begins at 5:30 p.m. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 10:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. PT.

The LA FIGHT CLUB is a monthly boxingseries premiering March 6 and will take place on the first Thursday of each month, upcoming dates: April 2, May 7 and June 4. It will showcase the brightest stars in the sport and present these exciting matchups in a nightclub atmosphere with an original setup. The boxing ring will be set on the main floor of the Belasco Theater with on-camera standing room for fans in front of the ring similar to a concert pit, as well as reserved balcony and floor seats. Los Angeles’ own DJ Ray of Big Boy’s Neighborhood will spin music during the fights and fans will be able to dance and mingle with the fighters when the venue converts into a night club, in a VIP experience not matched by any promoter in the industry.

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.belascous.com, www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1, www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @FoxSports, @FoxSports1, @FoxDeportes, and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing, www.facebook.com/ TheBelascoLA, www.facebook.com/FOXDeportes, visit us on Instagram at @GoldenBoyBoxing and @belascola and follow the conversation using #LAFIGHTCLUB.

MIAMI (Jan. 28, 2015) – World Boxing Association (WBA) Super, World Boxing Organization (WBO) and The Ring Magazine super bantamweight champion Guillermo “The Jackal” Rigondeaux (15-0, 10 KOs) is encouraged by reports that World Boxing Council (WBC) title-holder Leo Santa Cruz’ promoter, Oscar de la Hoya, believes a Rigondeaux-Santa Cruz unification fight has to happen.

The 34-year-old Rigondeaux, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, has been restricted to Asia for his last two fights, subsequently in low-profile matches, due to the lack of desire by any world-class super bantamweight to challenge the Cuban star.

Rigondeaux stopped WBO No. 6 rated challenger Hisashi Amagasa (28-4-2, 19 KOs) after 11 rounds in Osaka, Japan this past New Year’s Eve. Last July, “Rigo” knocked out Sod Kokietgym (62-2-1) in the opening round of their fight in Macao, China.

“It’s good to know that Santa Cruz’ promoter has stated that our unification fight has to happen,” an ecstatic Rigondeaux said. “I want to add his (WBC) green belt to my WBA and WBO championship collection. I’ve wanted this fight for some time. Let’s hope this is not just idle talk. Let’s do it!”

Rigondeaux vs. Santa Cruz (29-0-1, 17 KOs) would be a classic showdown between ethnic boxing arch-rivals, respectively, Cuban and Mexican fighters who now live in Miami and southern California.

“I have contacted Golden Boy Promotions many times to ask about making a fight between ‘Rigo’ and Santa Cruz,” Rigondeaux’ manager Gary Hyde added. “They always answered by saying they were interested in making this fight but not at that time. Yesterday, after learning Oscar said this fight has to happen, I reached out to Golden Boy and can confirm that negotiations have commenced. Myself and Caribe Promotions, ‘Rigo’s’ promoter, will endeavor to make this fight happen as soon as possible.

“Once ‘Rigo’ beats Santa Cruz for his third world title belt – fourth if you count The Ring Magazine – a fight against International Boxing Federation (IBF) champion Carl Frampton (19-0, 13 KOs) would have to happen in order to determine the undisputed super bantamweight champion of the world.”

Follow Rigondeaux and Hyde on Twitter at @RigoElChacal305 and @NoWhere2Hyde, friend them at www.facebook.com/GuillermoRigondeaux and www.facebook.com/gary.hyde.50?fref=ts.

Los Angeles (Jan. 23) – Golden Boy Promotions held a press conference at the Golden Boy Building in Los Angeles on Thursday, Jan 22., to announce the Feb. 27 IBF Bantamweight World Championship fight between the titleholder Randy “El Matador” Caballero and Alberto “Metro” Guevara. The event was hosted by Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions and was attended by more than 50 local and international media outlets. Seven-time world champion in four weight classes, Erik Morales and former WBC and IBF Super Bantamweight World Champion Isreal Vasquez were also in attendance.

Other fighters featured on the card participated in the press conference including Mexicali’s Diego De La Hoya (8-0, 6 KOs) who fights in his first eight-round bout as the co-main event against Los Angeles’ Manuel “Suavecito” Roman (17-3-3, 6 KOs). Plus, Chinese heavyweight sensation Taishan (2-0, 2 KOs) spoke about his upcoming opening telecast bout on FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes, a four-round fight against Roy McCary (3-2, 3 KOs). Also, newcomer Nick Arce (1-0, 1 KO) and the undefeated Oscar “Jaguar” Negrete (7-0, 3 KOs) discussed their upcoming fights, both against opponents yet to be announced.

Tickets for the event, priced at $105, $75, $55, $45 and $35 are on sale now, at the Fantasy Springs Box Office, by calling (800) 827-2946 or online at www.fantasyspringsresort.com.

Below is what the fighters had to say today at the Golden Boy Building, in downtown Los Angeles:

Oscar De La Hoya, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions:

“I’m really excited to be presenting to you what we call a homecoming. ‘The Homecoming’ will consist of a champion who traveled all the way to Monte Carlo and brought the world title back to Coachella. Back to where he grew up, where he trained. Back to all his people that always supported him at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino

“[Randy] is a champion that has always represented his roots from Nicaragua. That for many years another great champion, my idol, Alexis Arguello represented. For Randy it will be a great honor to fight in front of his public, his hometown.

“Thank you to FOX for this great opportunity. It’s going to be a tremendous showdown on FOX Sports 1. This is what FOX Sports 1 is all about giving you the best action not only from the future champions, but as we can see now ‘The Champion,’ Randy Caballero.

“We will be bringing back Fight Night Club live from downtown. That will be an exciting series. It will give us an opportunity to cultivate the next generation of Los Angeles champions.

“We believe in Taishan, we believe in his ability. He has talent, speed and tremendous power as demonstrated in his last two fights. We know how to build champions; therefore we have no doubt in our mind that Taishan can become the heavyweight fighter that everyone dreams to of.

“It goes to show you the character in Manuel [Roman]. He’s chasing after his dream, he wants that world title, but he has to get through the next young fighter.

“This next fighter has the same last name as me, De La Hoya; yes he is my cousin. But this is a serious fight. This is a real fight. This is a dangerous fight. Diego is all about facing the toughest challenges. He wants to go as fast as he can towards a world title.

“[Alberto Guevara] has recent wins that have put him back on that championship level and now he is back challenging for a world title at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

“[Randy] has fought 12 times at Fantasy Springs Casino and every single time he comes out more explosive, hungrier than ever, working harder and harder, all for the fans. All to make sure that the fans leave satisfied having witnessed some great fights.”

Randy “El Matador” Caballero, Undefeated IBF Bantamweight World Champion

“I want to thank Alberto for taking this fight, it’s going to be a war.

“I went around the world to win this title. Trust me, it wasn’t easy and I am not ready to give it up. I am going to make sure to keep it right by my side and we are going to conquer 118 pounds one fight at a time.

“The people on this card are great. We are glad to have it at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino.

“I’m going to make sure I am the fight of the night and you guys leave satisfied. Hopefully he is ready, because I am going to be giving it my all. I’m not letting this title go anywhere.”

Alberto “Metro” Guevara, Bantamweight Contender

“I am prepared, happy, excited, and motivated. I think that on the February 27 we will win, I come with that attitude.

“Thanks to the champion, thanks to Golden Boy for giving me this opportunity. It is my time. I deserve it. I have worked very hard. I have the attitude. I have the talent to win the world title.

“I can assure you that February 27 will be a very good fight, a fight you don’t want to miss. It will be explosive and, at the end of the night, I will be the new world champion.”

Diego De La Hoya, Super Bantamweight Prospect

“I’m very happy to be here and very happy with my promoter that is taking me and guiding me in the right way. I’m very happy to be a part of this card and with a companion, a stable mate like Randy and to have it be at Fantasy Springs, which is like a second home to me is very exciting.

“I’m training hard. I’m fighting an opponent with a lot of experience. There is no other way than victory for that night. I am going to win.

“I want to make it clear: I’m not afraid to be fighting with fighters at this level and this much experience because I’m confident of what I’ve done: De La Hoya is going to win.”

Manuel “Suavecito” Roman, Super Bantamweight Contender

“I want to thank Golden Boy for this opportunity and all the media for supporting this event.

“I’m in great shape for this fight. I just recently changed trainers, I’m with Isreal Vasquez and I think he is going to benefit me a lot. Having a world champion in my corner, you’ll see some changes

“I know my opponent comes as an undefeated fighter so I’m getting ready for everything.”

Taishan, Heavyweight Prospect

“I’m so excited to see you all here to support this upcoming fight at Fantasy Springs.

“I want to thank Fantasy Springs Casino Resort for inviting me back into the ring. Thank you Oscar De La Hoya for giving me this opportunity to fulfill my dream in boxing.”

“I will do my best to fight each fight, I want everyone to come out on February 27 to support me.”

Nick Arce, Super Featherweight Prospect

“First, I want to thank you all for being here today. I also would like to thank my team at West Side Boxing and my promoter Golden Boy Promotions for giving me this opportunity”

“I’ll give a great show on February 27 so that people can start knowing who Nick Arce is.”

Oscar “Jaguar” Negrete, Bantamweight Prospect

“I want to thank Golden Boy Promotions, Oscar, Leo Santa Cruz and my management team.

“I invite you all to come and meet the ‘Colombian Jaguar’ on February 27.”

John Carvelli, Vice Chair of the California State Athletic Commission

“I want to reiterate our pride and support for Golden Boy Promotions a California born and bred company, they are our most active promoter in the state. We are proud of Golden Boy Promotion’s professionalism.”

# # #

Caballero vs. Guevara, a 12-round bout for Caballero’s IBF Bantamweight World Championship is presented by Golden Boy Promotions and sponsored by Corona Extra, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Mexico, Live It To Believe It! and Golden Ram Group. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. and the first bell rings at 5:30 p.m. The FOX Sports 1 and FOX Deportes broadcast airs live at 10:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. PT.

For more information, visit www.goldenboypromotions.com, www.FOXSports.com/FOXSports1, www.FOXDeportes.com, follow on Twitter at @GoldenBoyBoxing, @Swanson_comm, @FOXSports, @FOXSports1, @FOXDeportes and, become a fan on Facebook at Golden Boy Facebook Page, www.facebook.com/FOXDeportes and visit us on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing.

MIAMI (Jan. 21, 2015) Olympic gold medalist, 10-time world champion in six weight divisions and leading boxing promoter Oscar De La Hoya will launch a new Spanish-language sports, travel and lifestyle cable television channel called De La Hoya TV, the “Golden Boy” announced today at the National Association of Television Program Executives (NATPE) annual conference in Miami.

Offering news, analysis and original programming surrounding combat sports including boxing and MMA, the multi-platform network will feature entertainment, travel, lifestyle and news on international sports, giving fans another level of access to the champions of the sports that they love.

“De La Hoya TV will be the premiere authority on boxing and other combat sports, providing fans with a behind-the-scenes look into the world and lifestyles of their favorite athletes,” said De La Hoya, chairman of De La Hoya TV. “The network aims to inspire all to live the life of a champion, delivering exceptional insight into the athletes and featuring entertainment, global destinations, news and more.”

Building on boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya’s brand, De La Hoya TV will launch with Spanish-language content and focus on engaging the U.S. Hispanic market.

Latino audiences, which now total more than 50 million in the U.S., have long fueled the popularity of combat sports, and De La Hoya TV will provide the Hispanic market with an experience that they’ve longed for. Among U.S. Hispanic audiences, boxing is the second most-popular sport after soccer, and recent data suggests that more than 50 percent of the Mixed Martial Arts’ fan base is Hispanic.

The multiplatform network will launch in the spring of 2015 and be available for cable and satellite distribution. Initially launching in Spanish, the network will in the future provide English content, offering today’s modern consumers with multiple options to engage with network programming.

De La Hoya TV is a partnership between Oscar De La Hoya, businessman and international boxing promoter José Alberto “Pepe” Gómez, and media executive and Fashion TV Latin America partner Victor Hugo Montero.

Gomez is a successful business owner and major promoter of Mexican and international boxing. Gomez operates several media companies in Mexico, including a popular newspaper and radio station.

Montero is an experienced television and cable executive, having launched Venezuela’s first cable channel, Sun Channel Tourism Television, which is currently available throughout Latin America. More recently Montero helped re-launched Fashion TV Latin America, an international cable channel.

“In my decades of working in television, I’ve seen few opportunities to connect with an untapped market with such an exponential opportunity for growth. For over a year we have worked on this project and are focused on expanding content from Spanish to include English and make it available to a larger audience, all to serve the consumer’s appetite,” said Victor Hugo Montero, CEO and general manager of De La Hoya TV.

“The popularity of combat sports continues to grow throughout the United States, Latin America and the globe, and now fans will finally have a unique resource to get news and analysis through De La Hoya TV,” said José Alberto “Pepe” Gómez, executive chairman of De La Hoya TV.

De La Hoya TV’s unique content, which will complement existing boxing programming on the established networks, like HBO, SHOWTIME, FOX, and Televisa will help continue to fuel the growth of the sport and the intensity of the fans.

Original production for De La Hoya TV will begin in early 2015, with details on programming schedules to be announced soon. The network is based in Miami, Florida.

ABOUT DE LA HOYA TV
De La Hoya TV is a new multi-platform sports, lifestyle and travel network serving as the authority of boxing and combat sports. Focused on their slogan, Beyond Boxing, the new Spanish-language channel will feature entertainment, tourism, lifestyle, news and international sports, engaging the audience on an exciting adrenaline filled journey with behind the scenes access to the life of their favorite athletes. For more information, visit www.delahoyatv.com and follow De La Hoya TV on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

LAS VEGAS (Jan. 17) – Golden Boy Promotions alongside Eye of the Tiger Management held an intimate roundtable at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, to discuss the recent signing of David Lemieux (33-2, 31 KOs) to Golden Boy Promotions. The impressive middleweight contender Lemieux, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions Oscar De La Hoya, Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner Bernard Hopkins, President of Eye of the Tiger Management Camille Estephan, and Senior Vice President of Golden Boy Promotions Eric Gomez were all in attendance.

The hard-hitting Montreal native’s next bout was confirmed to be broadcasted on HBO and Lemieux expressed his interest in fighting the best in the middleweight division. Below is what the Montreal native, his promoters and his management had to say:

DAVID LEMIEUX, Middleweight Contender

“I have put in the work. What you saw in Brooklyn was only 50 percent of what I can do and I feel like I can be a lot better. I want to show that in my next fight.

“I fear no man, I want to go after the top of the food chain. Oscar and Bernard came up fighting the best and I am of the same mind.

“Canelo is a younger, hungrier fighter. He is explosive. He is a tough fighter and it would be a good match up.

“Everyone is on the list. I want to fight the best.

“The reason I started so young was because I was a trouble maker. I was fighting in the streets. My neighbor was a boxer and he told me to come fight real fighters. I got my ass kicked a few times but I fell in love with it.

“We want to make a good run at 160 and then think about moving up in weight.

“I have always liked power punchers and I respect others’ styles and other champions, but I never mimic them.”

OSCAR DE LA HOYA, Founder and President of Golden Boy Promotions

“We are exploring every option. We can go to Montreal, we can go back to New York City, we can come to Las Vegas; that’s the beauty of David. He can fight anywhere and people will come out to watch him.

“He’s still growing. We haven’t seen his full potential which is very exciting. He has explosiveness and power.

“We will be working hand and hand with Eye of the Tiger Management. We are partners and we want the best fights, the best deals. We will be working together in the best interest for David.

“A future fight with Canelo is possible. Canelo wants to fight the best. Lemieux wants to fight the best. For now we want to focus on 160-pounds weight class and on Cotto, Andy lee and Golovkin.”

BERNARD HOPKINS, Future Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner

“We got this guy [Lemieux], he is tough. I know Gabriel Rosado and he handled him easily. I know what I am looking at. I have an eye for talent and he has it.

“We are going to continue and show you that we will put on the best fights and give the fans quality. I’m in it to make the best fights. The ratings speak for themselves. The fans speak for themselves. Judge us by the quality of the matches you see and don’t get caught up in the ‘feelings’ of it.

“I want to put a call out to everyone, that is how Oscar was brought up, that is how I was brought up, fighting the best.

“Three things about David: one, he signed with Golden Boy Promotions; two, he has talent in many ways, not only is he a fan favorite he is a good defensive fighter; three, he has good looks.

“I am seeing now the molding of another legacy, his legacy. But at the end of the day he has an opportunity in the middle weight division, I am glad to be here with a middleweight who I feel already has a lot of respect.

CAMILLE ESTEPHAN, President of Eye of the Tiger Management

“Canelo is on the list. Cotto is on the list. Golovkin is on the list. Andy Lee is on the list. Everyone is on the list.

“I definitely think he is the most popular boxer, the numbers prove it. He has a lot of potential and the sky is the limit.

“I got a call yesterday from someone in the boxing world about how exciting it is to be working with Golden Boy and he said ‘David is like a sunshine that beams on the world of boxing’ and it is very heartwarming. It’s heartwarming to sit down with Oscar, Bernard and Eric, whom I have gotten to know very well since the Rosado fight. This is great group of people and I think that we can build something together that will make a huge impact in the boxing world.

“David is the one guy, that as soon as I saw him the first time in the gym, the first sit-up he did and the last sit-up he did were exactly the same, he doesn’t cheat. He has the ultimate confidence because he doesn’t cheat himself and I have the ultimate respect for him. I am very proud of him as a person.

ERIC GOMEZ, Senior Vice President of Golden Boy Promotions

“After the Rosado fight, Lemieux was impressive and we began talks with Camille. People love David and it made sense. David has an exciting style.

“We are looking at HBO, the ratings against Rosado were some of the best all year. They are very excited about David.”
###

For more information visit www.goldenboypromotions.com and www.eottm.com on Twitter @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya, @EOTMVD, @lemieuxboxing, become a fan on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/GoldenBoyBoxing and www.facebook.com/EyeoftheTigerManagement or follow on Instagram @GoldenBoyBoxing, @OscarDeLaHoya and @DavidLemieuxBoxing.