Boxlab signs the Tellez sisters, Reina and Gabriela |
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Boxlab Promotions has announced the signing of the Tellez sisters, Reina and Gabriela, to exclusive promotional agreements. The dynamic duo from San Antonio, Texas, have already made waves in the boxing world and now hope to take their careers to new heights under the guidance of Boxlab Promotions. Reina Tellez, age 21, competes in the bantamweight division and boasts a record of 11-0-1 with 5 KOs. Gabriela Tellez, just 18 years old, fights in the super featherweight division and holds a record of 4-0 with 1 KO. Both sisters bring the experienceof an amateur career to their skills. Reina, who began boxing at the age of 8, claimed multiple national titles and made her mark internationally by winning the 2019 Silesian Women's Championship. Gabriela, who started boxing at age 6, accumulated 23 national tournament victories, including a gold medal at the 2023 Youth Brandenburg Cup in Germany, where she earned a stoppage victory.
The younger Tellez sister, Gabriela will return to the ring this Friday, April 4th at the Red Owl Boxing Arena in Houston. She is set to face Lindsey Ellis (2-2, 2 KOs) from Tennessee, in a four-round featherweight bout. Meanwhile, Reina will make her Boxlab Promotions' debut on June 6th on MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects card at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, live on DAZN.
“I’m really happy to be signing with an established promoter like Boxlab Promotions,” said Reina Tellez on signing with Boxlab Promotions. “They have a great reputation, and I know they will take my career to the next level. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to show the world what I can do. I’m looking forward to making my debut with them in my next fight.”
“Fighting under the Boxlab Promotions banner is an amazing opportunity, and I’m excited to be a part of their team. My focus is on my fight this Friday in Houston, and I’m ready to put on a spectacular performance for the fans.” said Gabriela Tellez on her upcoming fight and new promotional partnership
“Reina and Gabriela are two of the most talented fighters I’ve had the privilege of working with,” said Trifon Petrov, an advisor to the Tellez Sisters. “Their dedication and skill make them destined to become world champions. I’m ecstatic to be partnering with Boxlab Promotions, who share the same vision for their careers.”
“Reina and Gabriela are amazing fighters, and we want to give them a warm welcome to the Boxlab Promotions family,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “They both have incredible potential, and we look forward to helping them achieve their dreams of becoming world champions. Their futures are bright, and we are committed to guiding them every step of the way.”
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Boxlab signs the Tellez sisters, Reina and Gabriela
Boxlab Promotions has announced the signing of the Tellez sisters, Reina and Gabriela, to exclusive promotional agreements. The dynamic duo from San Antonio, Texas, have already made waves in the boxing world and now hope to take their careers to new heights under the guidance of Boxlab Promotions. Reina Tellez, age 21, competes in the bantamweight division and boasts a record of 11-0-1 with 5 KOs. Gabriela Tellez, just 18 years old, fights in the super featherweight division and holds a record of 4-0 with 1 KO. Both sisters bring the experienceof an amateur career to their skills. Reina, who began boxing at the age of 8, claimed multiple national titles and made her mark internationally by winning the 2019 Silesian Women's Championship. Gabriela, who started boxing at age 6, accumulated 23 national tournament victories, including a gold medal at the 2023 Youth Brandenburg Cup in Germany, where she earned a stoppage victory.
The younger Tellez sister, Gabriela will return to the ring this Friday, April 4th at the Red Owl Boxing Arena in Houston. She is set to face Lindsey Ellis (2-2, 2 KOs) from Tennessee, in a four-round featherweight bout. Meanwhile, Reina will make her Boxlab Promotions' debut on June 6th on MVP’s Most Valuable Prospects card at the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, live on DAZN.
“I’m really happy to be signing with an established promoter like Boxlab Promotions,” said Reina Tellez on signing with Boxlab Promotions. “They have a great reputation, and I know they will take my career to the next level. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to show the world what I can do. I’m looking forward to making my debut with them in my next fight.”
“Fighting under the Boxlab Promotions banner is an amazing opportunity, and I’m excited to be a part of their team. My focus is on my fight this Friday in Houston, and I’m ready to put on a spectacular performance for the fans.” said Gabriela Tellez on her upcoming fight and new promotional partnership
“Reina and Gabriela are two of the most talented fighters I’ve had the privilege of working with,” said Trifon Petrov, an advisor to the Tellez Sisters. “Their dedication and skill make them destined to become world champions. I’m ecstatic to be partnering with Boxlab Promotions, who share the same vision for their careers.”
“Reina and Gabriela are amazing fighters, and we want to give them a warm welcome to the Boxlab Promotions family,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “They both have incredible potential, and we look forward to helping them achieve their dreams of becoming world champions. Their futures are bright, and we are committed to guiding them every step of the way.”
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Introducing Off The Hook Boxing |
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Off The Hook Boxing Series is set to debut next month under the leadership of combat sports executive Dean Toole. The inaugural event is slated for Saturday, May 3rd, at the Biloxi Civic Center in Biloxi, Mississippi, signaling the start of an ambitious venture in professional boxing. O'Toole is currently the CEO of Gamebred Bare Knuckle MMA, Gamebred Boxing and the founder of Island Fights.
Off The Hook Boxing Series will focus exclusively on professional boxing, delivering consistent and active events nationwide. Toole’s vision is to build fighters from the ground up into world champions, addressing a critical gap in the sport. “Even at the highest level, there just isn’t a consistent event providing real opportunities for fighters early in their careers,” Toole said. “Too often, these athletes lack an outlet to compete and stay active. We’re here to change that. We believe some of the greatest fighters on earth don’t exist because they never had the chance—Off The Hook will give them that shot.”
The promotion has big plans, targeting four to five events by the end of 2025 and aiming to scale up to 12-24 events annually. Toole and his team are already in talks with several casinos and venues across various cities and states about bringing this vision to life. “We want to build an amazing roster and create opportunities for boxers that haven’t been there before,” Toole added.
O'Toole's other venture, Island Fights, has been around since 2010, with 88 events under its belt, primarily hybrid MMA and boxing cards. With the organization’s rapid growth, Toole recognized the need to separate the two sports at the professional level to maximize opportunities for fighters. “We have so many talented boxers and MMA competitors,” Toole explained. “If we have 12 pro fights and split the card down the middle, we’d only get 6 MMA and 6 boxing matches, which limits opportunities for more athletes to compete. This move ensures more MMA fights for Island Fights and more boxing matches for Off The Hook, opening doors for more fighters.” Island Fights’ amateur events will continue to feature a mix of all disciplines. Tickets for the debut event are on sale now at www.offthehookbx.com
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Introducing Off The Hook Boxing
Off The Hook Boxing Series is set to debut next month under the leadership of combat sports executive Dean Toole. The inaugural event is slated for Saturday, May 3rd, at the Biloxi Civic Center in Biloxi, Mississippi, signaling the start of an ambitious venture in professional boxing. O'Toole is currently the CEO of Gamebred Bare Knuckle MMA, Gamebred Boxing and the founder of Island Fights.
Off The Hook Boxing Series will focus exclusively on professional boxing, delivering consistent and active events nationwide. Toole’s vision is to build fighters from the ground up into world champions, addressing a critical gap in the sport. “Even at the highest level, there just isn’t a consistent event providing real opportunities for fighters early in their careers,” Toole said. “Too often, these athletes lack an outlet to compete and stay active. We’re here to change that. We believe some of the greatest fighters on earth don’t exist because they never had the chance—Off The Hook will give them that shot.”
The promotion has big plans, targeting four to five events by the end of 2025 and aiming to scale up to 12-24 events annually. Toole and his team are already in talks with several casinos and venues across various cities and states about bringing this vision to life. “We want to build an amazing roster and create opportunities for boxers that haven’t been there before,” Toole added.
O'Toole's other venture, Island Fights, has been around since 2010, with 88 events under its belt, primarily hybrid MMA and boxing cards. With the organization’s rapid growth, Toole recognized the need to separate the two sports at the professional level to maximize opportunities for fighters. “We have so many talented boxers and MMA competitors,” Toole explained. “If we have 12 pro fights and split the card down the middle, we’d only get 6 MMA and 6 boxing matches, which limits opportunities for more athletes to compete. This move ensures more MMA fights for Island Fights and more boxing matches for Off The Hook, opening doors for more fighters.” Island Fights’ amateur events will continue to feature a mix of all disciplines. Tickets for the debut event are on sale now at www.offthehookbx.com
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Seminole Hard Rock to host boxing on April 11th |
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On Friday, April 11th, Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory will present the sixth installment of “Fists of Fury” professional boxing series at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Florida. In the ten-round main event, lightweight Armando Martinez Rabi (14-0, 13 KOs) will return to action to face two-time title challenger Alberto “Metro” Guevara (27-7, 12 KOs) of Tijuana. With a fighting style often described as “vicious,” Martinez Rabi, of Miami via Havana will be making his fifth straight appearance at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, having most recently stopped fellow Cuban Yoadris Salinas in eight rounds on February 22nd of this year.
After an accomplished international amateur career, Martinez Rabi turned professional in 2021 and had his first nine fights in Dubai before relocating to the United States. The 29-year-old power puncher holds a notable win, via TKO3, over Argentina’s Damian Alejandro Rojas.
A pair of fast-tracking unbeaten twins, bantamweight Andrey Bonilla (3-0, 2 KOs) and super flyweight Ari Bonilla (3-0,2 KOs) will appear in separate ten-round bouts. Andrey will be in a ten-round battle against Josue Morales (31-17-4, 13 KOs) of Houston, while Ari faces hard-hitting Ryan Shaw (8-1, 8 KOs) of Nashville.
After starting boxing at the age of five, the brothers went on to become amateur standouts, each having over 100 fights and winning several national and international championships while representing Mexico. The 19 year-old twins launched their professional careers with a bang last August 23rd at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in ten-round pro debuts. The brothers were born in Los Angeles, but raised in Juarez, Mexico.
On the undercard, no less than eight more fights will be held featuring several local and international prospects in exciting matchups. Those matchups will be announced shortly.
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Seminole Hard Rock to host boxing on April 11th
On Friday, April 11th, Kris Lawrence and The Heavyweight Factory will present the sixth installment of “Fists of Fury” professional boxing series at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Florida. In the ten-round main event, lightweight Armando Martinez Rabi (14-0, 13 KOs) will return to action to face two-time title challenger Alberto “Metro” Guevara (27-7, 12 KOs) of Tijuana. With a fighting style often described as “vicious,” Martinez Rabi, of Miami via Havana will be making his fifth straight appearance at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, having most recently stopped fellow Cuban Yoadris Salinas in eight rounds on February 22nd of this year.
After an accomplished international amateur career, Martinez Rabi turned professional in 2021 and had his first nine fights in Dubai before relocating to the United States. The 29-year-old power puncher holds a notable win, via TKO3, over Argentina’s Damian Alejandro Rojas.
A pair of fast-tracking unbeaten twins, bantamweight Andrey Bonilla (3-0, 2 KOs) and super flyweight Ari Bonilla (3-0,2 KOs) will appear in separate ten-round bouts. Andrey will be in a ten-round battle against Josue Morales (31-17-4, 13 KOs) of Houston, while Ari faces hard-hitting Ryan Shaw (8-1, 8 KOs) of Nashville.
After starting boxing at the age of five, the brothers went on to become amateur standouts, each having over 100 fights and winning several national and international championships while representing Mexico. The 19 year-old twins launched their professional careers with a bang last August 23rd at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in ten-round pro debuts. The brothers were born in Los Angeles, but raised in Juarez, Mexico.
On the undercard, no less than eight more fights will be held featuring several local and international prospects in exciting matchups. Those matchups will be announced shortly.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: results from Italy |
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Nigerian middleweight Samuel Nmomah (21-0) faced the experienced Abdul Khattab (20-4-1) in a grueling battle held in Novara, Italy. Nmomah showcased his technical prowess and physical dominance throughout the ten rounds, earning a unanimous decision win with scores of 95-94 (twice) and 96-93.... On the same show, Spanish junior lightweight Alex De La Rosa (10-0) delivered a wining performance in his international debut. He dismantled Romanian-Italian Catalin Ionescu (15-4-1) with a technical knockout in the sixth round. The Madrid-based De La Rosa methodically broke down Ionescu with precision and strategic prowess, flooring his opponent multiple times before the referee finally stepped in to stop the fight.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: results from Italy
Nigerian middleweight Samuel Nmomah (21-0) faced the experienced Abdul Khattab (20-4-1) in a grueling battle held in Novara, Italy. Nmomah showcased his technical prowess and physical dominance throughout the ten rounds, earning a unanimous decision win with scores of 95-94 (twice) and 96-93.... On the same show, Spanish junior lightweight Alex De La Rosa (10-0) delivered a wining performance in his international debut. He dismantled Romanian-Italian Catalin Ionescu (15-4-1) with a technical knockout in the sixth round. The Madrid-based De La Rosa methodically broke down Ionescu with precision and strategic prowess, flooring his opponent multiple times before the referee finally stepped in to stop the fight.
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Fightbook continues to staff up in advance of launch |
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FightBook, a forthcoming social network for the fight industry, has added Brendan Gibbons to its growing leadership team. Gibbons will be focused on athlete and fan activation, helping to strengthen community engagement and building deeper connections across the sport. Brendan joins Fightbook alongside Business Development Advisor Tim VanNewhouse and Founder & CEO Mark Habibi as the platform continues to expand its reach within the fight world. With a lifelong connection to boxing, Brendan brings not only experience, but a deep understanding of what drives both fighters and fans. The son of renowned boxing figure Sean Gibbons—who has helped guide the careers of numerous champions and some of the sport’s most charismatic figures—Brendan was raised around the ring. His knowledge of the business, forged through mentorship and hands-on experience, makes him a natural fit for this role.
“I’ve seen the sport from every angle—from the gym to the corner to the boardroom,” said Gibbons. “I believe in what Fightbook is building because it puts fighters first and brings fans closer to the action. I’ve watched Tim VanNewhouse work closely with my father and have seen the impact he’s had in multiple areas of the sport. When I heard he had joined forces with Mark Habibi, I knew it was something special. I’m honored to be part of this team.”
“Brendan is someone who gets it—he’s been around the sport his entire life and has a natural feel for what fighters and fans respond to,” said VanNewhouse. “Working with his father over the years, I’ve seen Brendan grow into a sharp and passionate contributor to the boxing world. I’m excited to now be working alongside him at Fightbook.”
“Brendan brings an incredible mix of legacy, instinct and modern perspective to the team,” said Mark Habibi, Founder & CEO of Fightbook. “He understands fighters, respects the craft, and knows how to create energy around the sport. He’s the perfect addition to the Fightbook team”.
Fightbook is currently in development and says it will be launching soon. For more information, visit Fightbook.com
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Previously, Fightbook welcomed VanNewhouse as a business development advisor. A respected figure in boxing, VanNewhouse brings years of experience and deep relationships within the sport, which he will leverage to help expand FightBook’s goal to become an essential platform for fighters, promoters, matchmakers, and industry professionals. VanNewhouse will play a crucial role in bringing awareness to FightBook, utilizing his extensive network to introduce the platform to key stakeholders across the industry. By engaging with top promoters, managers, sanctioning bodies, and media outlets, he will help communicate FightBook’s mission and showcase how the platform strives to enhance opportunities and connectivity within the fight business.
“FightBook is creating something truly innovative for the fight industry,” said VanNewhouse. “This platform has the potential to connect every key player in the sport, from fighters and coaches to promoters and sponsors, making it easier than ever to do business and grow the sport globally.”
“We are thrilled to have Tim working with FightBook,” said Mark Habibi, Founder & CEO of FightBook. “His influence in the boxing world and his ability to communicate our vision to the industry will be invaluable as we continue to scale. Tim understands the fight business inside and out, and his expertise will help drive FightBook’s global impact.”
For more information and to pre-register, visit Fightbook.com
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Fightbook continues to staff up in advance of launch
FightBook, a forthcoming social network for the fight industry, has added Brendan Gibbons to its growing leadership team. Gibbons will be focused on athlete and fan activation, helping to strengthen community engagement and building deeper connections across the sport. Brendan joins Fightbook alongside Business Development Advisor Tim VanNewhouse and Founder & CEO Mark Habibi as the platform continues to expand its reach within the fight world. With a lifelong connection to boxing, Brendan brings not only experience, but a deep understanding of what drives both fighters and fans. The son of renowned boxing figure Sean Gibbons—who has helped guide the careers of numerous champions and some of the sport’s most charismatic figures—Brendan was raised around the ring. His knowledge of the business, forged through mentorship and hands-on experience, makes him a natural fit for this role.
“I’ve seen the sport from every angle—from the gym to the corner to the boardroom,” said Gibbons. “I believe in what Fightbook is building because it puts fighters first and brings fans closer to the action. I’ve watched Tim VanNewhouse work closely with my father and have seen the impact he’s had in multiple areas of the sport. When I heard he had joined forces with Mark Habibi, I knew it was something special. I’m honored to be part of this team.”
“Brendan is someone who gets it—he’s been around the sport his entire life and has a natural feel for what fighters and fans respond to,” said VanNewhouse. “Working with his father over the years, I’ve seen Brendan grow into a sharp and passionate contributor to the boxing world. I’m excited to now be working alongside him at Fightbook.”
“Brendan brings an incredible mix of legacy, instinct and modern perspective to the team,” said Mark Habibi, Founder & CEO of Fightbook. “He understands fighters, respects the craft, and knows how to create energy around the sport. He’s the perfect addition to the Fightbook team”.
Fightbook is currently in development and says it will be launching soon. For more information, visit Fightbook.com
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Previously, Fightbook welcomed VanNewhouse as a business development advisor. A respected figure in boxing, VanNewhouse brings years of experience and deep relationships within the sport, which he will leverage to help expand FightBook’s goal to become an essential platform for fighters, promoters, matchmakers, and industry professionals. VanNewhouse will play a crucial role in bringing awareness to FightBook, utilizing his extensive network to introduce the platform to key stakeholders across the industry. By engaging with top promoters, managers, sanctioning bodies, and media outlets, he will help communicate FightBook’s mission and showcase how the platform strives to enhance opportunities and connectivity within the fight business.
“FightBook is creating something truly innovative for the fight industry,” said VanNewhouse. “This platform has the potential to connect every key player in the sport, from fighters and coaches to promoters and sponsors, making it easier than ever to do business and grow the sport globally.”
“We are thrilled to have Tim working with FightBook,” said Mark Habibi, Founder & CEO of FightBook. “His influence in the boxing world and his ability to communicate our vision to the industry will be invaluable as we continue to scale. Tim understands the fight business inside and out, and his expertise will help drive FightBook’s global impact.”
For more information and to pre-register, visit Fightbook.com
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Turki Alalshikh enjoys April Fools' day prank |
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Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, had a little April Fools' day fun, tweeting out this message: "Dear fans, Today marks our final day in boxing. I want to thank everyone who has been part of this journey with me. To my dear friends scheduled to fight on the London and NYC cards, I apologize for the time and effort you put into training camp. I wish you the best of luck in your future fights, as those two events have now been officially cancelled. Yours, Turki"
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Turki Alalshikh enjoys April Fools' day prank
Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority of Saudi Arabia and the most powerful man in boxing, had a little April Fools' day fun, tweeting out this message: "Dear fans, Today marks our final day in boxing. I want to thank everyone who has been part of this journey with me. To my dear friends scheduled to fight on the London and NYC cards, I apologize for the time and effort you put into training camp. I wish you the best of luck in your future fights, as those two events have now been officially cancelled. Yours, Turki"
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Ex-Olympian Rashida Ellis to turn pro in June |
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Rashida Ellis, the gold medalist from the 2022 World Amateur Championships in Istanbul, is set to turn professional. Ellis inked a long term management agreement with Trifon Petrov, who will guide her professional career. There was no shortage of interest in Ellis once she decided to turn pro. She is one of the most decorated amateur boxers in the last decade, besides winning the gold medal at the World Championships, Rashida also represented team USA at the 2021 Olympics where she lost a controversial split decision to Caroline Dubois. “I am excited to make the switch to the paid ranks, my goal is to become a world champion as a professional, just as I was in the amateurs. I am coming for everyone. I want all the belts,” said Ellis.
Ellis was affected by a controversial scoring in the amateurs, especially during her controversial loss at the Tokyo Olympics to Caroline Dubois. “I am not planning to let many fights to go the distance. There is no more headgear to save you all,” concluded Ellis.
Ellis will be the third Olympian who is guided by Petrov. He also manages the careers of fellow Tokyo Olympian Euri Cedeño and Cristian Pinales who also won bronze medal at the Paris Olympics last summer. “Rashida is amazing and I am extremely delighted to have signed her. I watched her beat the best of the best over the years in the amateurs. She can win a world title in the professional ranks within 3 fights, she is that good and special,” said Petrov.
Ellis holds wins over the current IBF lightweight champion and Olympic silver medalist Beatriz Ferreira, she also holds wins over another Olympic silver medalist in Wenlu Yang. “Shida is currently a promotional free agent as we are exploring our options,” added Petrov.
Ellis, who is trained by former team USA Olympic coach, Jeff Mays in San Antonio, is scheduled to make her professional debut on a Red Owl Boxing card in June. The event will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN. “We are thrilled to have Rashida on the platform. She is one of my favorite fighters and it’s an honor for us to have her make her professional debut on Red Owl Boxing and DAZN,” said James Bartley of Red Owl Boxing.
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Ex-Olympian Rashida Ellis to turn pro in June
Rashida Ellis, the gold medalist from the 2022 World Amateur Championships in Istanbul, is set to turn professional. Ellis inked a long term management agreement with Trifon Petrov, who will guide her professional career. There was no shortage of interest in Ellis once she decided to turn pro. She is one of the most decorated amateur boxers in the last decade, besides winning the gold medal at the World Championships, Rashida also represented team USA at the 2021 Olympics where she lost a controversial split decision to Caroline Dubois. “I am excited to make the switch to the paid ranks, my goal is to become a world champion as a professional, just as I was in the amateurs. I am coming for everyone. I want all the belts,” said Ellis.
Ellis was affected by a controversial scoring in the amateurs, especially during her controversial loss at the Tokyo Olympics to Caroline Dubois. “I am not planning to let many fights to go the distance. There is no more headgear to save you all,” concluded Ellis.
Ellis will be the third Olympian who is guided by Petrov. He also manages the careers of fellow Tokyo Olympian Euri Cedeño and Cristian Pinales who also won bronze medal at the Paris Olympics last summer. “Rashida is amazing and I am extremely delighted to have signed her. I watched her beat the best of the best over the years in the amateurs. She can win a world title in the professional ranks within 3 fights, she is that good and special,” said Petrov.
Ellis holds wins over the current IBF lightweight champion and Olympic silver medalist Beatriz Ferreira, she also holds wins over another Olympic silver medalist in Wenlu Yang. “Shida is currently a promotional free agent as we are exploring our options,” added Petrov.
Ellis, who is trained by former team USA Olympic coach, Jeff Mays in San Antonio, is scheduled to make her professional debut on a Red Owl Boxing card in June. The event will be broadcast worldwide on DAZN. “We are thrilled to have Rashida on the platform. She is one of my favorite fighters and it’s an honor for us to have her make her professional debut on Red Owl Boxing and DAZN,” said James Bartley of Red Owl Boxing.
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Anthony “ATV” Velazquez looking to bust out of the New England scene |
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New England has always been a stepping-stone in boxing. Local fighters in the six N.E. states earn their bones, the more talented prospects graduating to regional boxing, eventually nationally, and occasionally internationally. Unbeaten junior middleweight Anthony “ATV” Velazquez (16-0-1, 14 KOs), a promotional free agent fighting out of his native Springfield, Massachusetts, firmly believes he’s ready to bust out of New England boxing scene and showcase his vast skills on much larger platforms against leading 154-pounders at famous venues like Madison Square Garden. First, though, he’s scheduled to headline a Reyes Boxing card at home in Springfield on April 26th against Yusuph “Mr. Mwanza” Metu (11-1, 8 KOs), of Tanzania, at the MassMutual Center.
“I’m not calling out locals, I want the big dogs,” the 28 year-old Velasquez said. “I now have the experience to fight outside of my comfort zone (New England). I’m a fighter and that’s my mindset. There’s always room to improve. I want to learn every day and my coaches are always working on a few new things. “I want people outside of New England to know what I can do. I won’t be overwhelmed because I train with talented, experienced fighters in the gym. I want to be world champion Even though I’m 5-10 ½, someday I’d love to fight Sebastian Fundora.”
Velasquez is coached by experienced cornerman Hector Bermudez, who has guided five champions and currently trains welterweight Rohan Polanco (15-0, 10 KOs). “Anthony is on the verge of moving into the national scene,” Velasquez’ advisor Gunther Feingold commented. “He has improved dramatically over the past year and will be a difficult challenge for any of the other hot prospects at 154.”
Proud of his Boricua heritage – his father and mother were both born in Puerto Rico – Anthony is inspired by Miguel Cotto and Tito Trinidad. In fact, his father Carlos was a young fighter who trained at the same gym as Cotto in Caguas where his family is from. “My dad was an amateur fighter, but he didn’t go pro because he had 24 brothers and sisters,” Velasquez noted. “I forced him to bring me to the gym when I was in the sixth grade. My dad taught me how to box and after the first time I went to a gym, I haven’t left it. I learned that there are no good excuses for not going to the gym every day. I was a good baseball player, a shortstop, but I always wanted to box, and I stopped playing baseball in high school. All I want to do is box. I love it!”
A self-described counter puncher with good power, speed and timing, Anthony is a smart fighter who adapts to any style his opponent brings into the ring.
The only blemish on Velasquez’ record is a disputed eight-round split draw with Rashid Stevens nearly two years ago, in which the scores were 80-72, 74-78, 76-76.
Known for being the home of the Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield is a city located in Western Massachusetts with a population of more than 150,000, many of whom are Latinos. While it hasn’t produced any bigtime pro boxers, hometown favorite Anthony Velasquez is ready to break that mold, starting when he busts out of the New England boxing scene.
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Anthony “ATV” Velazquez looking to bust out of the New England scene
New England has always been a stepping-stone in boxing. Local fighters in the six N.E. states earn their bones, the more talented prospects graduating to regional boxing, eventually nationally, and occasionally internationally. Unbeaten junior middleweight Anthony “ATV” Velazquez (16-0-1, 14 KOs), a promotional free agent fighting out of his native Springfield, Massachusetts, firmly believes he’s ready to bust out of New England boxing scene and showcase his vast skills on much larger platforms against leading 154-pounders at famous venues like Madison Square Garden. First, though, he’s scheduled to headline a Reyes Boxing card at home in Springfield on April 26th against Yusuph “Mr. Mwanza” Metu (11-1, 8 KOs), of Tanzania, at the MassMutual Center.
“I’m not calling out locals, I want the big dogs,” the 28 year-old Velasquez said. “I now have the experience to fight outside of my comfort zone (New England). I’m a fighter and that’s my mindset. There’s always room to improve. I want to learn every day and my coaches are always working on a few new things. “I want people outside of New England to know what I can do. I won’t be overwhelmed because I train with talented, experienced fighters in the gym. I want to be world champion Even though I’m 5-10 ½, someday I’d love to fight Sebastian Fundora.”
Velasquez is coached by experienced cornerman Hector Bermudez, who has guided five champions and currently trains welterweight Rohan Polanco (15-0, 10 KOs). “Anthony is on the verge of moving into the national scene,” Velasquez’ advisor Gunther Feingold commented. “He has improved dramatically over the past year and will be a difficult challenge for any of the other hot prospects at 154.”
Proud of his Boricua heritage – his father and mother were both born in Puerto Rico – Anthony is inspired by Miguel Cotto and Tito Trinidad. In fact, his father Carlos was a young fighter who trained at the same gym as Cotto in Caguas where his family is from. “My dad was an amateur fighter, but he didn’t go pro because he had 24 brothers and sisters,” Velasquez noted. “I forced him to bring me to the gym when I was in the sixth grade. My dad taught me how to box and after the first time I went to a gym, I haven’t left it. I learned that there are no good excuses for not going to the gym every day. I was a good baseball player, a shortstop, but I always wanted to box, and I stopped playing baseball in high school. All I want to do is box. I love it!”
A self-described counter puncher with good power, speed and timing, Anthony is a smart fighter who adapts to any style his opponent brings into the ring.
The only blemish on Velasquez’ record is a disputed eight-round split draw with Rashid Stevens nearly two years ago, in which the scores were 80-72, 74-78, 76-76.
Known for being the home of the Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield is a city located in Western Massachusetts with a population of more than 150,000, many of whom are Latinos. While it hasn’t produced any bigtime pro boxers, hometown favorite Anthony Velasquez is ready to break that mold, starting when he busts out of the New England boxing scene.
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Farmer makes a medical confession |
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Former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer tweeted this on Monday: "I’ve kept this private for a long time but I see the concern and speculation about my tick. I have Tourette’s Syndrome. I’ve dealt with it all my life. No neurological issues, so no need to worry. I’m still out here putting belt to a**! There you go, the rabbit’s out of the hat." As for Saturday's loss to WBC interim lightweight title holder William Zepeda in Mexico, Farmer said, "hell of a fight Saturday. Zepeda did not beat me. The judges did. It’s crazy to say, but I’m kinda use to it." That was Farmer's second straight highly competitive loss to Zepeda, this one coming via majority decision.
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Farmer makes a medical confession
Former 130-pound champion Tevin Farmer tweeted this on Monday: "I’ve kept this private for a long time but I see the concern and speculation about my tick. I have Tourette’s Syndrome. I’ve dealt with it all my life. No neurological issues, so no need to worry. I’m still out here putting belt to a**! There you go, the rabbit’s out of the hat." As for Saturday's loss to WBC interim lightweight title holder William Zepeda in Mexico, Farmer said, "hell of a fight Saturday. Zepeda did not beat me. The judges did. It’s crazy to say, but I’m kinda use to it." That was Farmer's second straight highly competitive loss to Zepeda, this one coming via majority decision.
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Results from Buenos Aires |
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Luciano Baldor W10 Michell Banquez... Argentine bantamweight Luciano “Yiyo” Baldor (21-4-1) outpointed Venezuela's Michell Banquez over ten rounds via majority decision. In a closely contested battle, Baldor exploited his reach and technical prowess to overcome the tenacious Banquez, who couldn’t crack the southern fighter’s strategy. Two judges scored the bout 97-93 in Baldor’s favor, while the third saw it as a 95-95 draw. Banquez falls to 23-5.
Víctor Rodríguez TKO3 Alberto Mosquera... Uruguayan junior middleweight Víctor “Látigo” Rodríguez showcased his might by dispatching Panama's Alberto Mosquera with a technical knockout in the third round. Undefeated at 16-0-1 with 9 knockouts, Rodríguez controlled the fight from the opening bell, sending Mosquera to the canvas multiple times before the referee stepped in. Mosquera (28-8-2) lost his third in a row.
Joel Contreras TKO1 Miguel A. Maciel... Joel “Chiquitín” Contreras, the Argentinean flyweight champion, dazzled the crowd with a first-round technical knockout against Paraguay's Miguel Ángel Maciel. Just 21 years old, Contreras displayed his punching power by flooring his opponent twice before the referee intervened. With this decisive victory, Contreras improves his record to 9-1-0 with 2 knockouts. Maciel falls to 8-2-1 with 2 no contests.
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Results from Buenos Aires
Luciano Baldor W10 Michell Banquez... Argentine bantamweight Luciano “Yiyo” Baldor (21-4-1) outpointed Venezuela's Michell Banquez over ten rounds via majority decision. In a closely contested battle, Baldor exploited his reach and technical prowess to overcome the tenacious Banquez, who couldn’t crack the southern fighter’s strategy. Two judges scored the bout 97-93 in Baldor’s favor, while the third saw it as a 95-95 draw. Banquez falls to 23-5.
Víctor Rodríguez TKO3 Alberto Mosquera... Uruguayan junior middleweight Víctor “Látigo” Rodríguez showcased his might by dispatching Panama's Alberto Mosquera with a technical knockout in the third round. Undefeated at 16-0-1 with 9 knockouts, Rodríguez controlled the fight from the opening bell, sending Mosquera to the canvas multiple times before the referee stepped in. Mosquera (28-8-2) lost his third in a row.
Joel Contreras TKO1 Miguel A. Maciel... Joel “Chiquitín” Contreras, the Argentinean flyweight champion, dazzled the crowd with a first-round technical knockout against Paraguay's Miguel Ángel Maciel. Just 21 years old, Contreras displayed his punching power by flooring his opponent twice before the referee intervened. With this decisive victory, Contreras improves his record to 9-1-0 with 2 knockouts. Maciel falls to 8-2-1 with 2 no contests.
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BKFC results from Manchester, UK |
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Gary Fox won the vacant British Bare BKFC featherweight title (145 pounds in BKFC) with a TKO over the previously unbeaten Jonno Chipchase on Saturday at the sold-out Planet Ice in Manchester, England. The ringside physician called a halt to the bout at the conclusion of the action-packed opening round due to a significant laceration between the eyes of Chipchase, who hails from Manchester. “I knew I was winning this belt,” the Billingham, England product Fox told the jam-packed Planet Ice. “I don't think anyone will trouble me at this weight. I think I'll destroy them all." Chipchase is now 3-1 under the BKFC banner. The event aired live globally on The BKFC App.
A name well known to British fight fans, Jack Cullen was victorious by first-round TKO in his BKFC debut. Cullen, out of Bolton, England with a 22-6-1 traditional boxing record, sent Jakub “Kosa” Kosicki to the canvas twice before the ringside doctor stopped the bout at the 1:24 mark of the opening round. The Poznan, Poland product Kosicki falls to 0-2 under the BKFC banner.
Antrim, Ireland light heavyweight Conor “Da Crook” Cooke cruised to 5-1 in his BKFC career with a first-round KO over Stevie Taylor. Cooke scored a pair of knockdowns before the match was stopped after 101 seconds. Taylor, who hails from Darwen, England, is now 1-1 in the BKFC squared circle.
Darwen’s Gaz “The Crusher” Corran turned heads in his BKFC debut with an 80-second TKO victory at the expense of Dawid “Macho” Chylinski in light-heavyweight action. Chylinski, who hails from Wolverhampton, England, is now 0-2 in his BKFC career.
Wakefield, England light-heavyweight Matt “The Hammer” Hodgson smashed his way to 3-1 with a second-round TKO over the previously unbeaten Danny “The Destroyer” Moir. Hodgson logged a pair of knockdowns before the bout was stopped 30 seconds into the second frame. Moir, a product of Scarborough, England, is now 2-1 under the BKFC banner.
Pila, Poland’s Bart “The Last Polish King” Krol climbed to 5-1 with a unanimous decision victory over Simeon Ottley in their middleweight showdown. Two judges scored the contest 49-46, and one judge had it 50-45, all in favor of Krol. Ottley, who represents Leeds, England, is now 1-1 with BKFC.
Scuntthorpe, England cruiserweight Dec “Kid Nytro” Spelman was victorious in his BKFC debut, recording a clean sweep on the judges scorecards (50-44x3) against Tomas Lejsek of Chrastava, Czech Republic.
Blackburn, England’s David Oskar sent Stanoy “The Cobra” Tabakov to the canvas three times en route to the second-round TKO victory in cruiserweight action. The bout was called to a stop 26 seconds into the second frame. Oskar is now 5-2 in the BKFC squared circle, while the Sofia, Bulgaria product Tabakov is now 1-2.
Doncaster, England’s Danny Mitchell climbed to 2-1 with a decision victory over Benjamin Lowe in the light-heavyweight division. Mitchell recorded three knockdowns in the fight, paving the way for the unanimous decision (50-42x2, 48-44). Lowe, who hails from Denton, England, was making his BKFC debut.
Staylybridge, England’s Leigh “The Boom” Cohoon improved to 2-0 under the BKFC banner with a TKO over debuting Wrexham, Wales fighter James O’Brien in their light-heavyweight matchup. The stoppage came 53 seconds into the second round. Both fighters recorded a knockdown in the bout.
Manchester welterweight Liam Dooley needed just 14 seconds in his BKFC debut as he ran through Marcus “The Pilgrim” Pond with a lightning-fast KO. Pond, who represents Plymouth, England, is now 1-2 in his BKFC career.
Dublin’s Sinéadh “The Grenade” Ní Nualláin was victorious in her BKFC debut, earning the win via unanimous decision over Mathilda “Mayhem” Wilson in their women’s bantamweight matchup. Two judges scored the fight 49-46, while one had it 48-47. The Stockholm, Sweden product Wilson falls to 0-2 under the BKFC banner.
BKFC Fight Night: Manchester Results
Gary Fox def. Jonno Chipchase via TKO in Round 1 (2:00)
Wins vacant BKFC UK Featherweight Title
Jack Cullen def. Jakub Kosicki via TKO in Round 1 (1:24)
Conor Cooke def. Stevie Taylor via KO in Round 1 (1:01)
Gaz Corran def. Dawid Chylinski via TKO in Round 1 (0:80)
Matt Hodgson def. Danny Moir via TKO in Round 2 (0:30)
Bart Krol def. Simeon Ottley via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 50-45)
Dec Spelman def. Tomas Lejsek via Unanimous Decision (50-44x3)
David Oskar def. Stanoy Tabakov via TKO in Round 2 (0:26)
Danny Mitchell def. Benjamin Lowe via Unanimous Decision (50-42x2, 48-44)
Leigh Cohoon def. James O’Brien via TKO in Round 2 (0:53)
Liam Dooley def. Marcus Pond via KO in Round 1 (0:14)
Sinéadh Ní Nualláin def. Mathilda Wilson via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 48-47)
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BKFC results from Manchester, UK
Gary Fox won the vacant British Bare BKFC featherweight title (145 pounds in BKFC) with a TKO over the previously unbeaten Jonno Chipchase on Saturday at the sold-out Planet Ice in Manchester, England. The ringside physician called a halt to the bout at the conclusion of the action-packed opening round due to a significant laceration between the eyes of Chipchase, who hails from Manchester. “I knew I was winning this belt,” the Billingham, England product Fox told the jam-packed Planet Ice. “I don't think anyone will trouble me at this weight. I think I'll destroy them all." Chipchase is now 3-1 under the BKFC banner. The event aired live globally on The BKFC App.
A name well known to British fight fans, Jack Cullen was victorious by first-round TKO in his BKFC debut. Cullen, out of Bolton, England with a 22-6-1 traditional boxing record, sent Jakub “Kosa” Kosicki to the canvas twice before the ringside doctor stopped the bout at the 1:24 mark of the opening round. The Poznan, Poland product Kosicki falls to 0-2 under the BKFC banner.
Antrim, Ireland light heavyweight Conor “Da Crook” Cooke cruised to 5-1 in his BKFC career with a first-round KO over Stevie Taylor. Cooke scored a pair of knockdowns before the match was stopped after 101 seconds. Taylor, who hails from Darwen, England, is now 1-1 in the BKFC squared circle.
Darwen’s Gaz “The Crusher” Corran turned heads in his BKFC debut with an 80-second TKO victory at the expense of Dawid “Macho” Chylinski in light-heavyweight action. Chylinski, who hails from Wolverhampton, England, is now 0-2 in his BKFC career.
Wakefield, England light-heavyweight Matt “The Hammer” Hodgson smashed his way to 3-1 with a second-round TKO over the previously unbeaten Danny “The Destroyer” Moir. Hodgson logged a pair of knockdowns before the bout was stopped 30 seconds into the second frame. Moir, a product of Scarborough, England, is now 2-1 under the BKFC banner.
Pila, Poland’s Bart “The Last Polish King” Krol climbed to 5-1 with a unanimous decision victory over Simeon Ottley in their middleweight showdown. Two judges scored the contest 49-46, and one judge had it 50-45, all in favor of Krol. Ottley, who represents Leeds, England, is now 1-1 with BKFC.
Scuntthorpe, England cruiserweight Dec “Kid Nytro” Spelman was victorious in his BKFC debut, recording a clean sweep on the judges scorecards (50-44x3) against Tomas Lejsek of Chrastava, Czech Republic.
Blackburn, England’s David Oskar sent Stanoy “The Cobra” Tabakov to the canvas three times en route to the second-round TKO victory in cruiserweight action. The bout was called to a stop 26 seconds into the second frame. Oskar is now 5-2 in the BKFC squared circle, while the Sofia, Bulgaria product Tabakov is now 1-2.
Doncaster, England’s Danny Mitchell climbed to 2-1 with a decision victory over Benjamin Lowe in the light-heavyweight division. Mitchell recorded three knockdowns in the fight, paving the way for the unanimous decision (50-42x2, 48-44). Lowe, who hails from Denton, England, was making his BKFC debut.
Staylybridge, England’s Leigh “The Boom” Cohoon improved to 2-0 under the BKFC banner with a TKO over debuting Wrexham, Wales fighter James O’Brien in their light-heavyweight matchup. The stoppage came 53 seconds into the second round. Both fighters recorded a knockdown in the bout.
Manchester welterweight Liam Dooley needed just 14 seconds in his BKFC debut as he ran through Marcus “The Pilgrim” Pond with a lightning-fast KO. Pond, who represents Plymouth, England, is now 1-2 in his BKFC career.
Dublin’s Sinéadh “The Grenade” Ní Nualláin was victorious in her BKFC debut, earning the win via unanimous decision over Mathilda “Mayhem” Wilson in their women’s bantamweight matchup. Two judges scored the fight 49-46, while one had it 48-47. The Stockholm, Sweden product Wilson falls to 0-2 under the BKFC banner.
BKFC Fight Night: Manchester Results
Gary Fox def. Jonno Chipchase via TKO in Round 1 (2:00)
Wins vacant BKFC UK Featherweight Title
Jack Cullen def. Jakub Kosicki via TKO in Round 1 (1:24)
Conor Cooke def. Stevie Taylor via KO in Round 1 (1:01)
Gaz Corran def. Dawid Chylinski via TKO in Round 1 (0:80)
Matt Hodgson def. Danny Moir via TKO in Round 2 (0:30)
Bart Krol def. Simeon Ottley via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 50-45)
Dec Spelman def. Tomas Lejsek via Unanimous Decision (50-44x3)
David Oskar def. Stanoy Tabakov via TKO in Round 2 (0:26)
Danny Mitchell def. Benjamin Lowe via Unanimous Decision (50-42x2, 48-44)
Leigh Cohoon def. James O’Brien via TKO in Round 2 (0:53)
Liam Dooley def. Marcus Pond via KO in Round 1 (0:14)
Sinéadh Ní Nualláin def. Mathilda Wilson via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 48-47)
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Polish boxers to be featured on June 21st NJ show |
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New Jersey-born middleweight Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. is returning to Brick City. The Roseland product will face unbeaten Polish-born, Queens-based Kamil Gardzielik in the ten-round main event on Saturday, June 21st at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. In the ten-round all-Polish heavyweight co-feature, Damian Knyba takes on fellow unbeaten Marcin Siwy. Also on the show, Baltimore middleweight Lorenzo “Truck” Simpson (15-2, 8 KOs) looks to impress in an eight-rounder against William Townsel (8-2, 6 KOs). The three featured bouts plus additional undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Rising Star Promotions, tickets go on sale Tuesday, April 1st, at 12 p.m. ET Ticketmaster.com.
“We are thrilled to bring Vito back to Prudential Center, a beautiful venue that has played such an instrumental role in his career,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “This is a loaded card full of talented fighters in competitive matchups, and I expect a passionate crowd on hand for a great night of fights.”
“We pride ourselves on giving the sport of boxing a consistent platform - from champions to local boxers across all levels of experience,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “This event will mark our venue's fourth pro boxing showcase within twelve months, further cementing Newark as a marquee destination for the Sweet Science. We are honored to have talented boxers like Vito Mielnicki Jr. and Damian Knyba call Prudential Center their second home, and we look forward to another thrilling night of boxing on Saturday, June 21st.”
Mielnicki (20-1-1, 12 KOs) turned pro on a Top Rank bill at Prudential Center in July 2019, drawing several thousand Garden State supporters to watch his devastating first-round stoppage of Tamarcus Smith. He’s fought at Prudential Center three times since, including main event knockouts over Nicholas DeLomba in 2021 and Salim Larbi in 2023. Mielnicki signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank in early 2024 and kept busy with three fights that year, extending his unbeaten streak to 13.
Gardzielik (19-0, 4 KOs) will be fighting for the first time outside of Poland and looking to build off a 2024 campaign that saw him tally a pair of victories.
“I’m excited to come back to Prudential Center. My family, friends, and supporters from home will be there. Every time we fight at Prudential Center, it’s electric,” Mielnicki said. “I’ve knocked out all four of my opponents there, and I’m looking to make 5 for 5. I have Polish roots, and it will be a big night for the Polish community to support Damian and myself.”
Knyba (15-0, 9 KOs) is the latest Polish heavyweight hopeful, a proud lineage that includes Tomasz Adamek, who used to pack the Prudential Center earlier this century. He battled injuries throughout much of 2024, shaking off an 11-month layoff last November to stop Richard Lartey in three rounds. Knyba last fought in February at Prudential Center, knocking out former world title challenger Andrzej Wawrzyk in the main event.
Siwy (25-0-1, 12 KOs) returns to the boxing ring for the first time since September 2022, but he has kept active as a mixed martial artist in Poland. His only boxing blemish is a draw to noted spoiler Kamil Sokolowski, and he now seeks to derail Knyba’s momentum.
Knyba said, “I am thrilled to fight again in my second home, the Prudential Center. My opponent has tremendous experience and an unbeaten record. I will be at my best on June 21st to take his ‘0’.”
The undercard will also showcase East Orange bantamweight Mannie Chance (1-0) in a four-rounder, Connecticut-born heavyweight Ali Feliz (5-0, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder, and Philadelphia’s Daiyaan Butt (20-2, 10 KOs) facing Jersey City’s Mike Lee (11-3, 7 KOs) in an eight-rounder at welterweight.
Heavyweight Norman Neely (15-1, 10 KOs), who hails from Paterson, New Jersey, comes back from a 15-month layoff to fight James Willis (6-1-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-rounder.
Newark’s Muadh Abdus-Salaam makes his long-awaited professional debut in a four-round welterweight tilt against Roberto Cantos (1-3).
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Polish boxers to be featured on June 21st NJ show
New Jersey-born middleweight Vito “White Magic” Mielnicki Jr. is returning to Brick City. The Roseland product will face unbeaten Polish-born, Queens-based Kamil Gardzielik in the ten-round main event on Saturday, June 21st at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. In the ten-round all-Polish heavyweight co-feature, Damian Knyba takes on fellow unbeaten Marcin Siwy. Also on the show, Baltimore middleweight Lorenzo “Truck” Simpson (15-2, 8 KOs) looks to impress in an eight-rounder against William Townsel (8-2, 6 KOs). The three featured bouts plus additional undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the U.S. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with Rising Star Promotions, tickets go on sale Tuesday, April 1st, at 12 p.m. ET Ticketmaster.com.
“We are thrilled to bring Vito back to Prudential Center, a beautiful venue that has played such an instrumental role in his career,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “This is a loaded card full of talented fighters in competitive matchups, and I expect a passionate crowd on hand for a great night of fights.”
“We pride ourselves on giving the sport of boxing a consistent platform - from champions to local boxers across all levels of experience,” said Dylan Wanagiel, VP of Sports Properties & Special Events for Prudential Center. “This event will mark our venue's fourth pro boxing showcase within twelve months, further cementing Newark as a marquee destination for the Sweet Science. We are honored to have talented boxers like Vito Mielnicki Jr. and Damian Knyba call Prudential Center their second home, and we look forward to another thrilling night of boxing on Saturday, June 21st.”
Mielnicki (20-1-1, 12 KOs) turned pro on a Top Rank bill at Prudential Center in July 2019, drawing several thousand Garden State supporters to watch his devastating first-round stoppage of Tamarcus Smith. He’s fought at Prudential Center three times since, including main event knockouts over Nicholas DeLomba in 2021 and Salim Larbi in 2023. Mielnicki signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank in early 2024 and kept busy with three fights that year, extending his unbeaten streak to 13.
Gardzielik (19-0, 4 KOs) will be fighting for the first time outside of Poland and looking to build off a 2024 campaign that saw him tally a pair of victories.
“I’m excited to come back to Prudential Center. My family, friends, and supporters from home will be there. Every time we fight at Prudential Center, it’s electric,” Mielnicki said. “I’ve knocked out all four of my opponents there, and I’m looking to make 5 for 5. I have Polish roots, and it will be a big night for the Polish community to support Damian and myself.”
Knyba (15-0, 9 KOs) is the latest Polish heavyweight hopeful, a proud lineage that includes Tomasz Adamek, who used to pack the Prudential Center earlier this century. He battled injuries throughout much of 2024, shaking off an 11-month layoff last November to stop Richard Lartey in three rounds. Knyba last fought in February at Prudential Center, knocking out former world title challenger Andrzej Wawrzyk in the main event.
Siwy (25-0-1, 12 KOs) returns to the boxing ring for the first time since September 2022, but he has kept active as a mixed martial artist in Poland. His only boxing blemish is a draw to noted spoiler Kamil Sokolowski, and he now seeks to derail Knyba’s momentum.
Knyba said, “I am thrilled to fight again in my second home, the Prudential Center. My opponent has tremendous experience and an unbeaten record. I will be at my best on June 21st to take his ‘0’.”
The undercard will also showcase East Orange bantamweight Mannie Chance (1-0) in a four-rounder, Connecticut-born heavyweight Ali Feliz (5-0, 4 KOs) in a six-rounder, and Philadelphia’s Daiyaan Butt (20-2, 10 KOs) facing Jersey City’s Mike Lee (11-3, 7 KOs) in an eight-rounder at welterweight.
Heavyweight Norman Neely (15-1, 10 KOs), who hails from Paterson, New Jersey, comes back from a 15-month layoff to fight James Willis (6-1-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-rounder.
Newark’s Muadh Abdus-Salaam makes his long-awaited professional debut in a four-round welterweight tilt against Roberto Cantos (1-3).
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Welcome to Alimkhanuly vs. Ngamissengue fight week |
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Janibek Alimkhanuly (pictured) will seek to defend his unified middleweight titles when he takes on Anauel Ngamissengue this weekend. The Kazakh fighter returns to home soil for a blockbuster battle, defending his IBF and WBO crowns against the Congo-born, France-based challenger in Astana. Both men have earned a reputation for impressive stoppages, and have no losses combined across their names since turning pro. Alimkhanuly is 18-0 including the World Series of Boxing, and last fought in October, when he stopped Andre Mikhailovich. Ngamissengue is 14-0. His best win came in 2023 by majority decision over the previously undefeated Fiodor Czerkaszyn, a former Polish Olympian and a respected professional.
BOUT SHEET
Janibek Alimkhanuly vs Anauel Ngamissengue; Middleweight, for the IBF and WBO titles
Sultan Zaurbek vs Azinga Fuzile; Junior lightweight
Batyrzhan Jukembayev vs Kane Gardner; Junior welterweight
Bakhodir Jalolov vs Ihor Shevadzutskyi; Heavyweight
Otabek Kholmatov vs Jason Canoy Manigos; Featherweight
Balaussa Muzdiman vs Maria Theresa Pinili; Bantamweight
Makhmud Sabyrkhan vs Nicolas Tordecilla; Super bantamweight
Torekhan Sabyrkhan vs Jiri Hauke; Welterweight
Akniet Alimbay vs Josef Dubsky; Welterweight
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Welcome to Alimkhanuly vs. Ngamissengue fight week
Janibek Alimkhanuly (pictured) will seek to defend his unified middleweight titles when he takes on Anauel Ngamissengue this weekend. The Kazakh fighter returns to home soil for a blockbuster battle, defending his IBF and WBO crowns against the Congo-born, France-based challenger in Astana. Both men have earned a reputation for impressive stoppages, and have no losses combined across their names since turning pro. Alimkhanuly is 18-0 including the World Series of Boxing, and last fought in October, when he stopped Andre Mikhailovich. Ngamissengue is 14-0. His best win came in 2023 by majority decision over the previously undefeated Fiodor Czerkaszyn, a former Polish Olympian and a respected professional.
BOUT SHEET
Janibek Alimkhanuly vs Anauel Ngamissengue; Middleweight, for the IBF and WBO titles
Sultan Zaurbek vs Azinga Fuzile; Junior lightweight
Batyrzhan Jukembayev vs Kane Gardner; Junior welterweight
Bakhodir Jalolov vs Ihor Shevadzutskyi; Heavyweight
Otabek Kholmatov vs Jason Canoy Manigos; Featherweight
Balaussa Muzdiman vs Maria Theresa Pinili; Bantamweight
Makhmud Sabyrkhan vs Nicolas Tordecilla; Super bantamweight
Torekhan Sabyrkhan vs Jiri Hauke; Welterweight
Akniet Alimbay vs Josef Dubsky; Welterweight
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Zepeda edges Farmer in exciting bout |
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William Zepeda W12 Tevin Farmer ... Mexico's undefeated William Zepeda retained the WBC interim lightweight title by defeating Philadelphia's Tevin Farmer by majority decision at the Benito Juárez Poliforum in Cancún. It was the second clash between the two fighters, the first one being a controversial decision win for Zepeda. This time, there was much less doubt, as the boxer from San Mateo Atenco, State of Mexico, retained his title after the judges scored it 114-114, 116-112, and 115-113. In an exciting bout, Zepeda (33-0) unleashed effective combinations from the early rounds, punishing his opponent and keeping him on the ropes several times. However, Farmer (33-8-1), a former 130-pound champion, reacted well and also began to damage Zepeda, who suffered a nosebleed in the sixth round. Although Zepeda's punches seemed more jolting, the Philadelphia fighter simply refused to buckle and also managed to land his own hard punches. In the final rounds, both fighters grimly sought the knockout, but neither was able to secure it. Afterwards, Farmer tweeted: "I’ve kept this private for a long time but I see the concern and speculation about my tick. I have Tourette’s Syndrome. I’ve dealt with it all my life. No neurological issues, so no need to worry. I’m still out here putting belt to a**! There you go, the rabbit’s out of the hat."
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Zepeda edges Farmer in exciting bout
William Zepeda W12 Tevin Farmer ... Mexico's undefeated William Zepeda retained the WBC interim lightweight title by defeating Philadelphia's Tevin Farmer by majority decision at the Benito Juárez Poliforum in Cancún. It was the second clash between the two fighters, the first one being a controversial decision win for Zepeda. This time, there was much less doubt, as the boxer from San Mateo Atenco, State of Mexico, retained his title after the judges scored it 114-114, 116-112, and 115-113. In an exciting bout, Zepeda (33-0) unleashed effective combinations from the early rounds, punishing his opponent and keeping him on the ropes several times. However, Farmer (33-8-1), a former 130-pound champion, reacted well and also began to damage Zepeda, who suffered a nosebleed in the sixth round. Although Zepeda's punches seemed more jolting, the Philadelphia fighter simply refused to buckle and also managed to land his own hard punches. In the final rounds, both fighters grimly sought the knockout, but neither was able to secure it. Afterwards, Farmer tweeted: "I’ve kept this private for a long time but I see the concern and speculation about my tick. I have Tourette’s Syndrome. I’ve dealt with it all my life. No neurological issues, so no need to worry. I’m still out here putting belt to a**! There you go, the rabbit’s out of the hat."
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Magnesi defeats El Hadri in Rome |
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Michael Magnesi W12 Khalil El Hadri ... In Rome, Michael Magnesi, a former IBO champion, defeated Frenchman Khalil El Hadri after twelve memorable rounds in the junior lightweight division. The fight was close, with both fighters alternating in dominance, but Magnesi undoubtedly won the key rounds. The judges’ scores were 115-114 and 115-113 (twice), all for Magnesi, whose pro record now stands at 25-2. El Hadri returns hoe with a mark of 20-3.
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Magnesi defeats El Hadri in Rome
Michael Magnesi W12 Khalil El Hadri ... In Rome, Michael Magnesi, a former IBO champion, defeated Frenchman Khalil El Hadri after twelve memorable rounds in the junior lightweight division. The fight was close, with both fighters alternating in dominance, but Magnesi undoubtedly won the key rounds. The judges’ scores were 115-114 and 115-113 (twice), all for Magnesi, whose pro record now stands at 25-2. El Hadri returns hoe with a mark of 20-3.
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Late result: Lester Martinez now 19-0 |
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Lester Martínez KO4 Joeshon James... Guatemala’s Lester Martínez delivered a fourth-round knockout against Joeshon James on March 22nd. Fighting at the Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino, California, the super middleweight Martínez put on a statement-making performance. He now boasts a 19-0 record, with 16 wins by knockout. Martínez showcased his explosive power and pinpoint accuracy throughout the bout, sending James to the canvas in the third round before sealing the deal with another knockdown in the fourth. The referee had seen enough, stopping the fight and awarding Martínez an emphatic victory.
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Late result: Lester Martinez now 19-0
Lester Martínez KO4 Joeshon James... Guatemala’s Lester Martínez delivered a fourth-round knockout against Joeshon James on March 22nd. Fighting at the Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino, California, the super middleweight Martínez put on a statement-making performance. He now boasts a 19-0 record, with 16 wins by knockout. Martínez showcased his explosive power and pinpoint accuracy throughout the bout, sending James to the canvas in the third round before sealing the deal with another knockdown in the fourth. The referee had seen enough, stopping the fight and awarding Martínez an emphatic victory.
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard |
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At the Deutches Haus in Flensburg, Germany, junior middleweight Freddy “Pretty Boy” Kiwitt convincingly defeated Venezuelan puncher Evander Castillo. Improving his professional record to 27-3, Kiwitt controlled and stopped Castillo, who falls to 17-3, in round nine... In the co featured of the German show (promoted by Claussen Events and PWR Box Promotions), junior lightweight Lara Ochmann, 15-2, beat Japan´s Akane Fujiwara, now 7-5-1. Ochmann was the winner on all three judges cards: 100–90 and 99-91 (twice)... On a card staged by Boxteam Bounce at the Multiversum in Schwechat, Austria, welterweight Michaela Kotaskova prevailed by unanimous decision (97-93 (twice) and 98-92) over Argentina´s Gisela Noemi Luna. Kotaskova, based in Austria but from the Czech Republic, takes her pro record to 10-0 while Luna drops to 4-7-1 (1)... At light heavyweight, Mobin Khahrazeh improved to 12-0 by shutout unanimous decision (100-90 on all cards) over Poland's Przemyslaw Gorgon, now 18-15-2.
In the main event of a WBF double-header at the 7 Arts Theatre in Harare, Zimbabwe, promoted by Judgement Day Promotions, Hassan Milanzi fended off the challenge of Abdul Kubira in a 122-pound bout, stopping the Tanzanian in round six. With the victory Milanzi goes to 14-3-1, while Kubira, a late replacement for compatriot Haidari Mchanjo, drops to 8-3-1... In co-feature, Tinashe Majoni stopped Aubrey Masamba from Malawi in round three of a super flyweight contest. Majoni, fighting for his first professional title, improves to 11-1. Masamba travels back to Blantyre at 6-10-2 .
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard
At the Deutches Haus in Flensburg, Germany, junior middleweight Freddy “Pretty Boy” Kiwitt convincingly defeated Venezuelan puncher Evander Castillo. Improving his professional record to 27-3, Kiwitt controlled and stopped Castillo, who falls to 17-3, in round nine... In the co featured of the German show (promoted by Claussen Events and PWR Box Promotions), junior lightweight Lara Ochmann, 15-2, beat Japan´s Akane Fujiwara, now 7-5-1. Ochmann was the winner on all three judges cards: 100–90 and 99-91 (twice)... On a card staged by Boxteam Bounce at the Multiversum in Schwechat, Austria, welterweight Michaela Kotaskova prevailed by unanimous decision (97-93 (twice) and 98-92) over Argentina´s Gisela Noemi Luna. Kotaskova, based in Austria but from the Czech Republic, takes her pro record to 10-0 while Luna drops to 4-7-1 (1)... At light heavyweight, Mobin Khahrazeh improved to 12-0 by shutout unanimous decision (100-90 on all cards) over Poland's Przemyslaw Gorgon, now 18-15-2.
In the main event of a WBF double-header at the 7 Arts Theatre in Harare, Zimbabwe, promoted by Judgement Day Promotions, Hassan Milanzi fended off the challenge of Abdul Kubira in a 122-pound bout, stopping the Tanzanian in round six. With the victory Milanzi goes to 14-3-1, while Kubira, a late replacement for compatriot Haidari Mchanjo, drops to 8-3-1... In co-feature, Tinashe Majoni stopped Aubrey Masamba from Malawi in round three of a super flyweight contest. Majoni, fighting for his first professional title, improves to 11-1. Masamba travels back to Blantyre at 6-10-2 .
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Jerusalem defeats Shigeoka for second time |
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Melvin Jerusalem W12 Yudai Shigeoka ... In the second of two minimum weight title fights held this weekend, Melvin Jerusalem of the Philippines decisively outboxed Yudai Shigeoka of Japan in their highly-anticipated rematch.The judges were unanimous in recognizing Jerusalem’s superiority. Judge Chris Tellez scored the bout 119-109, Joseph Gwilt had it 118-110. And Thawut Pheumsamran saw it 116-112, all in favor of Jerusalem after twelve rounds of action. Jerusalem (24-3) has now defeated the previous champion Shigeoka (9-2) twice in Japan over the last year.
Earlier this weekend, Puerto Rico's Oscar Collazo dominated and stopped Edwin Cano Hernandez in round five. The 105-pound Collazo retains his WBA and WBO championships.
The final belt in the 105-pound weight division is the IBF title, held by Shigeoka's brother Ginjiro.
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Jerusalem defeats Shigeoka for second time
Melvin Jerusalem W12 Yudai Shigeoka ... In the second of two minimum weight title fights held this weekend, Melvin Jerusalem of the Philippines decisively outboxed Yudai Shigeoka of Japan in their highly-anticipated rematch.The judges were unanimous in recognizing Jerusalem’s superiority. Judge Chris Tellez scored the bout 119-109, Joseph Gwilt had it 118-110. And Thawut Pheumsamran saw it 116-112, all in favor of Jerusalem after twelve rounds of action. Jerusalem (24-3) has now defeated the previous champion Shigeoka (9-2) twice in Japan over the last year.
Earlier this weekend, Puerto Rico's Oscar Collazo dominated and stopped Edwin Cano Hernandez in round five. The 105-pound Collazo retains his WBA and WBO championships.
The final belt in the 105-pound weight division is the IBF title, held by Shigeoka's brother Ginjiro.
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Collazo extends his 105-title reign with TKO5 |
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Oscar Collazo TKO5 Edwin Cano Hernandez ... Defending his titles against a Mexican in Mexico, Puerto Rico's Oscar Collazo dominated and stopped Edwin Cano in round five. The 105-pound Collazo retains his WBA and WBO championships. A right to the body was the final blow as Collazo improves to 12-0, while Hernandez falls t0 13-3-1. The fight took place in Cancun.
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Collazo extends his 105-title reign with TKO5
Oscar Collazo TKO5 Edwin Cano Hernandez ... Defending his titles against a Mexican in Mexico, Puerto Rico's Oscar Collazo dominated and stopped Edwin Cano in round five. The 105-pound Collazo retains his WBA and WBO championships. A right to the body was the final blow as Collazo improves to 12-0, while Hernandez falls t0 13-3-1. The fight took place in Cancun.
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Norman stops Cuevas in three to retain title |
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Brian Norman Jr. TKO3 Derrieck Cuevas... On the Top Ran show in Las Vegas, Brian Norman Jr. (27-0, 21 KOs) needed about ten minutes of ring action to retain his WBO welterweight title. After about ten months of inactivity, the 24 year-old Norman scored third-round technical knockout win over Puerto Rico's Derrieck Cuevas (27-2-1, 19 KOs). The two traded bombs early, but the threat of each other’s power tempered the exchanges. Norman began pawing with the jab and digging to the body to create openings, and in round two, he buzzed Cuevas with a left hook that triggered a series of shots. Another left hook in the third dropped Cuevas. He beat the count but failed to respond to referee Tom Taylor’s instructions, prompting the stoppage at 2:59.
Norman said, “I feel wonderful. I had a little ring rust to start off, but you saw that I shook that off real quick. I was just getting back into it. I was out for 10 months. So, it was just about getting back into the field and being in front of everybody. As you saw, it wasn’t a struggle at all. Great opponent. Only has one defeat. And you saw what I did to him. I want one of these {other} belts. I see them out here trying to make unification fights. Where’s my little piece at?”
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Norman stops Cuevas in three to retain title
Brian Norman Jr. TKO3 Derrieck Cuevas... On the Top Ran show in Las Vegas, Brian Norman Jr. (27-0, 21 KOs) needed about ten minutes of ring action to retain his WBO welterweight title. After about ten months of inactivity, the 24 year-old Norman scored third-round technical knockout win over Puerto Rico's Derrieck Cuevas (27-2-1, 19 KOs). The two traded bombs early, but the threat of each other’s power tempered the exchanges. Norman began pawing with the jab and digging to the body to create openings, and in round two, he buzzed Cuevas with a left hook that triggered a series of shots. Another left hook in the third dropped Cuevas. He beat the count but failed to respond to referee Tom Taylor’s instructions, prompting the stoppage at 2:59.
Norman said, “I feel wonderful. I had a little ring rust to start off, but you saw that I shook that off real quick. I was just getting back into it. I was out for 10 months. So, it was just about getting back into the field and being in front of everybody. As you saw, it wasn’t a struggle at all. Great opponent. Only has one defeat. And you saw what I did to him. I want one of these {other} belts. I see them out here trying to make unification fights. Where’s my little piece at?”
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No controversy this time: Mayer tops Ryan |
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Mikaela Mayer W10 Sandy Ryan ... Mikaela Mayer defended her WBO welterweight world title with a ten-round unanimous decision against former champion Sandy Ryan on Saturday at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. Mayer (21-2, 5 KOs) used her jab and right hand to dictate the action in the opening stanza. The 2016 Olympian then buzzed Ryan (7-3-1, 3 KOs) with a left hook in the second round, which set the tone for the fight as Mayer looked to assert herself as the stronger and bigger fighter at welterweight with clean, punishing hooks. Ryan found some success with right hands and uppercuts, particularly in the later rounds. A clash of heads in the eighth opened a cut over Mayer’s left eye, but it didn’t change the momentum. Ryan tried to claw back late, but it wasn’t enough. With scores of 97-93 (twice) and 98-92, Mayer put herself in line for a shot at the undisputed crown.
Mayer said, “I sat on my shots more and committed to my hooks more. Those hooks were coming over the top. Sandy tends to stand straight up. She comes forward and puts the pressure on. So we worked on chopping her down with those hooks over the top. I had been needing to move to welterweight for a long time. So, when I finally did, it just took a good, solid year and a half of hard work. This is where I’m comfortable, and this is where I should have been. I beat Sandy Ryan twice. Now it’s time for me to move on and go for undisputed, which is against Lauren Price.”
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No controversy this time: Mayer tops Ryan
Mikaela Mayer W10 Sandy Ryan ... Mikaela Mayer defended her WBO welterweight world title with a ten-round unanimous decision against former champion Sandy Ryan on Saturday at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. Mayer (21-2, 5 KOs) used her jab and right hand to dictate the action in the opening stanza. The 2016 Olympian then buzzed Ryan (7-3-1, 3 KOs) with a left hook in the second round, which set the tone for the fight as Mayer looked to assert herself as the stronger and bigger fighter at welterweight with clean, punishing hooks. Ryan found some success with right hands and uppercuts, particularly in the later rounds. A clash of heads in the eighth opened a cut over Mayer’s left eye, but it didn’t change the momentum. Ryan tried to claw back late, but it wasn’t enough. With scores of 97-93 (twice) and 98-92, Mayer put herself in line for a shot at the undisputed crown.
Mayer said, “I sat on my shots more and committed to my hooks more. Those hooks were coming over the top. Sandy tends to stand straight up. She comes forward and puts the pressure on. So we worked on chopping her down with those hooks over the top. I had been needing to move to welterweight for a long time. So, when I finally did, it just took a good, solid year and a half of hard work. This is where I’m comfortable, and this is where I should have been. I beat Sandy Ryan twice. Now it’s time for me to move on and go for undisputed, which is against Lauren Price.”
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Watch: Yabuki becomes a two-division champion |
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Masamichi Yabuki TKO12 Angel Ayala... Japan's Masamichi Yabuki dropped Mexico's Angel Ayala three times: in rounds one, two and twelve in a dominant performance to take Ayala's IBF flyweight Title via twelfth round technical knockout. Ayala was willing to fight on, but was a bloody mess at the time of the stoppage. Yabuki is now a two-weight champion, having previously enjoyed two reigns at 108 pounds. Yabuki is also the only man to beat Kenshiro Teraji, who currently hods the WBA and WBC titles at flyweight. Ayala came into this fight as an undefeated champion, but is now 18-1.
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Watch: Yabuki becomes a two-division champion
Masamichi Yabuki TKO12 Angel Ayala... Japan's Masamichi Yabuki dropped Mexico's Angel Ayala three times: in rounds one, two and twelve in a dominant performance to take Ayala's IBF flyweight Title via twelfth round technical knockout. Ayala was willing to fight on, but was a bloody mess at the time of the stoppage. Yabuki is now a two-weight champion, having previously enjoyed two reigns at 108 pounds. Yabuki is also the only man to beat Kenshiro Teraji, who currently hods the WBA and WBC titles at flyweight. Ayala came into this fight as an undefeated champion, but is now 18-1.
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Undercard results from Vegas: Carrington stops Vivas |
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Bruce Carrington TKO3 Jose Enrique Vivas ... New York featherweight Bruce "Shu Shu" Carrington (15-0, 9 KOs) appears to be on the verge of a world title shot. At the Fountainbleu in Las Vegas, Carrington, the WBC and WBO #1 featherweight contender, handed Mexico's Jose Enrique Vivas (23-4, 12 KOs) his first stoppage defeat with a third-round finish. Vivas tried to suffocate Carrington with pressure from the opening bell, walking him down and pinning him to the ropes, but the Brooklyn native stayed composed and turned the exchanges in his favor, answering with sharp uppercuts and hooks on the inside.
In the second, Carrington flipped the momentum with a quick three-piece—right hook, left hook, right hook—that dropped Vivas. He poured it on with more offense, but Vivas survived the round. By the third, Vivas’ legs were gone. After Carrington landed a few clean shots, Vivas began to retreat, prompting referee Raul Caiz Jr. to step in and stop the fight at :53.
Carrington said. "Every fight is not going to be a knockout, but I’m always performing and do what I have to do. I just saw him opening up. He was doing exactly what I wanted him to do. That was part of the game plan. I wanted him to feel comfortable and open up. And then I was just going to get my shots on the inside and get him out of there."
"[WBA champion] Nick Ball? Yeah, I want that. [WBC champion] Stephen Fulton? Yeah, I want that. Let’s get this work in. I want all of ya’ll."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Junior welterweight Emiliano Fernando Vargas (13-0, 11 KOs) returned from an injured left hand and put that hand to good use, scoring a second-round knockout over Giovannie Gonzalez (20-8-2, 15 KOs). After flashing his speed, Vargas closed in, countered a jab with a right uppercut, then ripped rights around the guard before ending it with a left hook at 2:08.
In his debut in a new division, welterweight Tiger Johnson (15-0, 7 KOs) halted Kendo Castañeda (21-9, 9 KOs) in the fifth round. Johnson was catching and shooting early, but a counter right uppercut to the solar plexus in the fourth hurt Castañeda. He went back to the body in the fifth, scoring a knockdown with another shot to the same spot before a final flurry ended the fight. Time of stoppage: 2:00.
Junior lightweight Dedrick Crocklem (2-0, 2 KOs), out of Tacoma, Washington, scored a first-round TKO against Dionne Ruvalcaba (2-1, 1 KO), overwhelming him with relentless pressure and crisp counters to the body before referee Robert Hoyle stepped in at 2:50.
Top Rank has a new Mannie. Emmanuel Chance (1-0) had a strong pro debut, boxing circles around Miguel Guzman (1-1, 1 KO) en route to a clear points win in the bantamweight division. The 18 year-old Chance, from East Orange, New Jersey, was an amateur sensation before signing a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. All official three scores were 40-36.
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Undercard results from Vegas: Carrington stops Vivas
Bruce Carrington TKO3 Jose Enrique Vivas ... New York featherweight Bruce "Shu Shu" Carrington (15-0, 9 KOs) appears to be on the verge of a world title shot. At the Fountainbleu in Las Vegas, Carrington, the WBC and WBO #1 featherweight contender, handed Mexico's Jose Enrique Vivas (23-4, 12 KOs) his first stoppage defeat with a third-round finish. Vivas tried to suffocate Carrington with pressure from the opening bell, walking him down and pinning him to the ropes, but the Brooklyn native stayed composed and turned the exchanges in his favor, answering with sharp uppercuts and hooks on the inside.
In the second, Carrington flipped the momentum with a quick three-piece—right hook, left hook, right hook—that dropped Vivas. He poured it on with more offense, but Vivas survived the round. By the third, Vivas’ legs were gone. After Carrington landed a few clean shots, Vivas began to retreat, prompting referee Raul Caiz Jr. to step in and stop the fight at :53.
Carrington said. "Every fight is not going to be a knockout, but I’m always performing and do what I have to do. I just saw him opening up. He was doing exactly what I wanted him to do. That was part of the game plan. I wanted him to feel comfortable and open up. And then I was just going to get my shots on the inside and get him out of there."
"[WBA champion] Nick Ball? Yeah, I want that. [WBC champion] Stephen Fulton? Yeah, I want that. Let’s get this work in. I want all of ya’ll."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Junior welterweight Emiliano Fernando Vargas (13-0, 11 KOs) returned from an injured left hand and put that hand to good use, scoring a second-round knockout over Giovannie Gonzalez (20-8-2, 15 KOs). After flashing his speed, Vargas closed in, countered a jab with a right uppercut, then ripped rights around the guard before ending it with a left hook at 2:08.
In his debut in a new division, welterweight Tiger Johnson (15-0, 7 KOs) halted Kendo Castañeda (21-9, 9 KOs) in the fifth round. Johnson was catching and shooting early, but a counter right uppercut to the solar plexus in the fourth hurt Castañeda. He went back to the body in the fifth, scoring a knockdown with another shot to the same spot before a final flurry ended the fight. Time of stoppage: 2:00.
Junior lightweight Dedrick Crocklem (2-0, 2 KOs), out of Tacoma, Washington, scored a first-round TKO against Dionne Ruvalcaba (2-1, 1 KO), overwhelming him with relentless pressure and crisp counters to the body before referee Robert Hoyle stepped in at 2:50.
Top Rank has a new Mannie. Emmanuel Chance (1-0) had a strong pro debut, boxing circles around Miguel Guzman (1-1, 1 KO) en route to a clear points win in the bantamweight division. The 18 year-old Chance, from East Orange, New Jersey, was an amateur sensation before signing a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. All official three scores were 40-36.
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Japanese boxer receives payment for decades of wrongful imprisonment |
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A former Japanese boxer who languished for almost half a century on death row has been granted the equivalent of 1.45 million dollars compensation for crimes he didn`t commit. Iwao Hakamata now aged eighty nine was convicted of the 1968 murders of his boss, the wife and their two children. Due to his legal team and a fighting campaign which lasted for decades, he was released in 2014 and acquitted in a re-trial last year. His lawyers say this is the largest payment in a Japanese criminal case, but falls far short of what should be paid in compensation for the appalling ordeal he suffered for more than half a lifetime incarceration, mostly on death row. Much of that Hard Time was spent in solitary confinement under the fear of being executed on several hours of notice.
In the conclusion of this case which raises a myriad of disturbing, vexing questions and issues, presiding Judge Kunii Koshi stated that Mr Hakamata has suffered: ”Extreme and severe mental pain as well as physical anguish.” The World Boxing Council and the Japanese Boxing Commission joined the campaign for a re-trial and exoneration, due to flimsy, unreliable, untenable, insupportable evidence.
Mr Hakamata lives with his older sister Hideki aged ninety-one, who fought and championed his case for fifty-six years to save him, although his incarceration has left permanent scars which can never be salved or healed.
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Japanese boxer receives payment for decades of wrongful imprisonment
A former Japanese boxer who languished for almost half a century on death row has been granted the equivalent of 1.45 million dollars compensation for crimes he didn`t commit. Iwao Hakamata now aged eighty nine was convicted of the 1968 murders of his boss, the wife and their two children. Due to his legal team and a fighting campaign which lasted for decades, he was released in 2014 and acquitted in a re-trial last year. His lawyers say this is the largest payment in a Japanese criminal case, but falls far short of what should be paid in compensation for the appalling ordeal he suffered for more than half a lifetime incarceration, mostly on death row. Much of that Hard Time was spent in solitary confinement under the fear of being executed on several hours of notice.
In the conclusion of this case which raises a myriad of disturbing, vexing questions and issues, presiding Judge Kunii Koshi stated that Mr Hakamata has suffered: ”Extreme and severe mental pain as well as physical anguish.” The World Boxing Council and the Japanese Boxing Commission joined the campaign for a re-trial and exoneration, due to flimsy, unreliable, untenable, insupportable evidence.
Mr Hakamata lives with his older sister Hideki aged ninety-one, who fought and championed his case for fifty-six years to save him, although his incarceration has left permanent scars which can never be salved or healed.
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BKFC results from Florida |
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On Thursday night, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship 70 took place at the sold-out Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN. In the main event, Luis “Baboon” Palomino added to his resume by winning the inaugural BKFC King of the Streets Championship with a hard-fought, unanimous decision victory over Howard “HD” Davis. Two judges scored the action-packed contest 49-46, while one had it 48-47, all in favor of Palomino, who previously held the BKFC lightweight and welterweight championships. Palomino is now 10-1 in his BKFC career.vThe Peruvian-born Miami, FL fighter brought the jam-packed Hard Rock to a fever pitch when he called out current BKFC lightweight champion Franco “El Rey de la Calle” Tenaglia in his post-fight interview.
“You did a great job claiming the throne. I’m proud of the job you did against Tony Soto, the only fighter I didn’t face before I moved up. But the truth of the matter is I’m 9-0 in this weight class, six-time defending World Champion. I’m daddy. These are my children. Come see me. You’ll see who the real Champion is.”
Davis, who represents Broward County, FL, is now 7-3-1 under the BKFC banner.
In the co-feature, heavyweight Leonardo “El Zambo” Perdomo needed just 13 seconds to steamroll former WBA interim cruiserweight champion Steve “Centurion” Herelius — good for the second fastest finish in the history of the BKFC heavyweight division. Perdomo is now 7-0, with all of his victories coming by first-round finish. The fearsome Cuban-born Miami heavyweight attraction entered fight night as the #3 contender in the BKFC heavyweight division. Perdomo had a simple message for undefeated BKFC World Heavyweight Champion “Big” Rothwell — “Are you ready?” The France-born Miami fighter Herelius is now 1-2 in his BKFC career after ging 21-5-1 as. traditional boxer. (Anthony “Lionheart” Garrett holds the record for the fastest finish in the history of the BKFC heavyweight division with his 12-second stoppage victory over Lavar Johnson at BKFC Fight Night: Los Angeles in November).
Boca Raton, FL’s Justin “Joy Boy” Ibarrola cruised to 7-0 with a second-round KO over Abdiel “The Nightmare” Velazquez in their action-packed bantamweight battle. Time of the stoppage was 1:27 into the second frame. Ibarrola logged a pair of knockdowns in the fight. The Puerto Rican-born, Spring Hill, FL product Velazquez is now 4-5 in his bare knuckle fighting career. Ibarrola, who entered fight night as the #1 contender in the stacked BKFC bantamweight division, brushed aside the undisputed BKFC World Bantamweight Champion Alberto “El Indio” Blas and declared himself as the top dog at 135 pounds in his post-fight interview. “I’m the real (expletive) champion of this bantamweight division. I’m the most active fighter on the roster,” a fired-up Ibarrola told the sold-out Hard Rock. “I’m the first bantamweight to go 7-0. I’m undefeated. The real champ.”
Celebrities in attendance included BKFC Partner Conor “Notorious” McGregor, as well as fellow former UFC champions Andrei Arlovski, Rashad Evans and Amanda Nunes. Also in attendance was basketball icon Shaquille O'Neal, streaming superstar Adin Ross, music superstar Lil Pump and Dion Dawkins, starting left tackle of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills.
“There’s no other promotion doing anything close to what (BKFC) is doing,” McGregor said during his on-air interview with Cyrus Fees. “We’re leading the charge, and we’ve got a great night of fights here, ladies and gentlemen.”
Here are some highlights from BKFC Founder/President David Feldman and Conor McGregor’s post-event press conference with the media in attendance at Hard Rock.
Feldman: “I’m very, very happy about the result we had tonight. We're entertaining a really big deal right now. I think we're going to land at least one show a month on Thursday night, and tonight we proved that we can make that happen.”
McGregor: “This is as real as it gets. This is the real game right here. Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. Nothing in combat sports comes close. Bare knuckle is on top. We're on the rise. We've gone global. But make no mistake; Hollywood, FL is our home, and it's always great to be here on Thursday night.”
Knockout of the Night: Leonardo Perdomo
Performance Bonuses: Justin Ibarrola and Peter Peraza
Fight of the Night: Luis Palomino vs. Howard Davis
Livonia, MI’s Justin “The Nightmare” Street earned his second BKFC victory with a TKO over the previously unbeaten Matt “Rambo” Russo in their bantamweight showdown. The doctor called a stop to the bout at the conclusion of the second round. Street is now 2-2 in the Squared Circle. The Broward County, FL product Russo is now 2-1 under the BKFC banner.
Unbeaten Miami cruiserweight Julio “The Cuban Horse” Perez upped his BKFC record to 3-0 with a second-round TKO over Lewis “Sweet Lew” Glover. Perez recorded a pair of knockdowns before the bout was stopped 1:15 into the second frame. Glover, who hails from Savannah, GA, is now 1-1 in his BKFC career.
Nicaraguan-born Miami featherweight Edgard “The Dream Killer” Plazaola smashed his way to 5-0 with a five-knockdown TKO victory over former BKFC World Featherweight Championship challenger Louie “El Loco” Lopez. The fight was stopped with 17 seconds left in the third round. The Missoula, MT-based Lopez is now 4-5 in his BKFC career.
Charleston, SC’s Roberto “El Gallo Negro” Armas scored his fifth BKFC victory with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over the previously undefeated Chris “Dynamite” Garcia in their highly entertaining bantamweight matchup. Two judges scored the fight 50-45 while one had it 48-47, all in favor of Armas, who was entering the BKFC Squared Circle for the ninth time. Garcia, who represents Clewiston, FL and entered the bout as the No. 4 contender in the bantamweight division, is now 4-1.
Miami’s Peter “D2G” Peraza earned his second straight win and improved to 3-1 with a jaw-dropping KO over Kaine “Kaine 9” Tomlinson Jr., in the third round of their action-packed welterweight matchup. Peraza sent Tomlinson Jr., to the canvas three times before the fight was stopped 37 seconds into the third frame. The Roanoke, VA-based Tomlinson Jr., is now 2-2 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
Unbeaten Miami bantamweight AJ “The Biggest” Rodriguez improved to 3-0 in his bare knuckle career with a third-round TKO over Corey “Pitbull” Roberts. Time of the stoppage was 1:39 in the third stanza. The Omaha, NE product Roberts is now 1-2 under the BKFC banner.
Ardmore, AL’s Bear “The Last Barbarian” Hill was victorious in his BKFC debut, stopping Nicholas “Chet Chino” Blume via TKO in their heavyweight matchup. Hill scored a knockdown in the second round before the ringside doctor called a halt to the bout at the conclusion of the third frame. Blume, who hails from Broward County, FL, is now 0-2 in his BKFC career.
Fort Myers, FL flyweight Jancarlos “Baby Hulk” Rivera turned heads in his BKFC debut with a unanimous decision victory over Albert “Trill Flight” Inclan. Two judges scored the contest 50-45 and one had it 49-46, all in favor of Rivera. Inclan, who represents Phoenix, AZ, is now 1-4 under the BKFC banner.
BKFC 70 Results
Luis Palomino def. Howard Davis via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 48-47)
Palomino wins inaugural BKFC King of the Streets Championship
Leonardo Perdomo def. Steve Herelius via KO in Round 1 (0:13)
Justin Ibarrola def. Abdiel Velazquez via KO in Round 2 (1:27)
Justin Street def. Matt Russo via TKO in Round 2 (2:00)
Julio Perez def. Lewis Glover via TKO in Round 2 (1:15)
Edgard Plazaola def. Louie Lopez via TKO in Round 3 (1:43)
Roberto Armas def. Chris Garcia via Unanimous Decision (50-45x2, 48-47)
Peter Peraza def. Kaine Tomlinson Jr. via KO in Round 3 (0:37)
AJ Rodriguez def. Corey Roberts via TKO in Round 3 (1:39)
Bear Hill def. Nicholas Blume via TKO in Round 3 (2:00)
Jancarlos Rivera def. Albert Inclan via Unanimous Decision (50-45x2, 49-46)
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BKFC results from Florida
On Thursday night, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship 70 took place at the sold-out Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida, live worldwide on DAZN. In the main event, Luis “Baboon” Palomino added to his resume by winning the inaugural BKFC King of the Streets Championship with a hard-fought, unanimous decision victory over Howard “HD” Davis. Two judges scored the action-packed contest 49-46, while one had it 48-47, all in favor of Palomino, who previously held the BKFC lightweight and welterweight championships. Palomino is now 10-1 in his BKFC career.vThe Peruvian-born Miami, FL fighter brought the jam-packed Hard Rock to a fever pitch when he called out current BKFC lightweight champion Franco “El Rey de la Calle” Tenaglia in his post-fight interview.
“You did a great job claiming the throne. I’m proud of the job you did against Tony Soto, the only fighter I didn’t face before I moved up. But the truth of the matter is I’m 9-0 in this weight class, six-time defending World Champion. I’m daddy. These are my children. Come see me. You’ll see who the real Champion is.”
Davis, who represents Broward County, FL, is now 7-3-1 under the BKFC banner.
In the co-feature, heavyweight Leonardo “El Zambo” Perdomo needed just 13 seconds to steamroll former WBA interim cruiserweight champion Steve “Centurion” Herelius — good for the second fastest finish in the history of the BKFC heavyweight division. Perdomo is now 7-0, with all of his victories coming by first-round finish. The fearsome Cuban-born Miami heavyweight attraction entered fight night as the #3 contender in the BKFC heavyweight division. Perdomo had a simple message for undefeated BKFC World Heavyweight Champion “Big” Rothwell — “Are you ready?” The France-born Miami fighter Herelius is now 1-2 in his BKFC career after ging 21-5-1 as. traditional boxer. (Anthony “Lionheart” Garrett holds the record for the fastest finish in the history of the BKFC heavyweight division with his 12-second stoppage victory over Lavar Johnson at BKFC Fight Night: Los Angeles in November).
Boca Raton, FL’s Justin “Joy Boy” Ibarrola cruised to 7-0 with a second-round KO over Abdiel “The Nightmare” Velazquez in their action-packed bantamweight battle. Time of the stoppage was 1:27 into the second frame. Ibarrola logged a pair of knockdowns in the fight. The Puerto Rican-born, Spring Hill, FL product Velazquez is now 4-5 in his bare knuckle fighting career. Ibarrola, who entered fight night as the #1 contender in the stacked BKFC bantamweight division, brushed aside the undisputed BKFC World Bantamweight Champion Alberto “El Indio” Blas and declared himself as the top dog at 135 pounds in his post-fight interview. “I’m the real (expletive) champion of this bantamweight division. I’m the most active fighter on the roster,” a fired-up Ibarrola told the sold-out Hard Rock. “I’m the first bantamweight to go 7-0. I’m undefeated. The real champ.”
Celebrities in attendance included BKFC Partner Conor “Notorious” McGregor, as well as fellow former UFC champions Andrei Arlovski, Rashad Evans and Amanda Nunes. Also in attendance was basketball icon Shaquille O'Neal, streaming superstar Adin Ross, music superstar Lil Pump and Dion Dawkins, starting left tackle of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills.
“There’s no other promotion doing anything close to what (BKFC) is doing,” McGregor said during his on-air interview with Cyrus Fees. “We’re leading the charge, and we’ve got a great night of fights here, ladies and gentlemen.”
Here are some highlights from BKFC Founder/President David Feldman and Conor McGregor’s post-event press conference with the media in attendance at Hard Rock.
Feldman: “I’m very, very happy about the result we had tonight. We're entertaining a really big deal right now. I think we're going to land at least one show a month on Thursday night, and tonight we proved that we can make that happen.”
McGregor: “This is as real as it gets. This is the real game right here. Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. Nothing in combat sports comes close. Bare knuckle is on top. We're on the rise. We've gone global. But make no mistake; Hollywood, FL is our home, and it's always great to be here on Thursday night.”
Knockout of the Night: Leonardo Perdomo
Performance Bonuses: Justin Ibarrola and Peter Peraza
Fight of the Night: Luis Palomino vs. Howard Davis
Livonia, MI’s Justin “The Nightmare” Street earned his second BKFC victory with a TKO over the previously unbeaten Matt “Rambo” Russo in their bantamweight showdown. The doctor called a stop to the bout at the conclusion of the second round. Street is now 2-2 in the Squared Circle. The Broward County, FL product Russo is now 2-1 under the BKFC banner.
Unbeaten Miami cruiserweight Julio “The Cuban Horse” Perez upped his BKFC record to 3-0 with a second-round TKO over Lewis “Sweet Lew” Glover. Perez recorded a pair of knockdowns before the bout was stopped 1:15 into the second frame. Glover, who hails from Savannah, GA, is now 1-1 in his BKFC career.
Nicaraguan-born Miami featherweight Edgard “The Dream Killer” Plazaola smashed his way to 5-0 with a five-knockdown TKO victory over former BKFC World Featherweight Championship challenger Louie “El Loco” Lopez. The fight was stopped with 17 seconds left in the third round. The Missoula, MT-based Lopez is now 4-5 in his BKFC career.
Charleston, SC’s Roberto “El Gallo Negro” Armas scored his fifth BKFC victory with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over the previously undefeated Chris “Dynamite” Garcia in their highly entertaining bantamweight matchup. Two judges scored the fight 50-45 while one had it 48-47, all in favor of Armas, who was entering the BKFC Squared Circle for the ninth time. Garcia, who represents Clewiston, FL and entered the bout as the No. 4 contender in the bantamweight division, is now 4-1.
Miami’s Peter “D2G” Peraza earned his second straight win and improved to 3-1 with a jaw-dropping KO over Kaine “Kaine 9” Tomlinson Jr., in the third round of their action-packed welterweight matchup. Peraza sent Tomlinson Jr., to the canvas three times before the fight was stopped 37 seconds into the third frame. The Roanoke, VA-based Tomlinson Jr., is now 2-2 in his bare knuckle fighting career.
Unbeaten Miami bantamweight AJ “The Biggest” Rodriguez improved to 3-0 in his bare knuckle career with a third-round TKO over Corey “Pitbull” Roberts. Time of the stoppage was 1:39 in the third stanza. The Omaha, NE product Roberts is now 1-2 under the BKFC banner.
Ardmore, AL’s Bear “The Last Barbarian” Hill was victorious in his BKFC debut, stopping Nicholas “Chet Chino” Blume via TKO in their heavyweight matchup. Hill scored a knockdown in the second round before the ringside doctor called a halt to the bout at the conclusion of the third frame. Blume, who hails from Broward County, FL, is now 0-2 in his BKFC career.
Fort Myers, FL flyweight Jancarlos “Baby Hulk” Rivera turned heads in his BKFC debut with a unanimous decision victory over Albert “Trill Flight” Inclan. Two judges scored the contest 50-45 and one had it 49-46, all in favor of Rivera. Inclan, who represents Phoenix, AZ, is now 1-4 under the BKFC banner.
BKFC 70 Results
Luis Palomino def. Howard Davis via Unanimous Decision (49-46x2, 48-47)
Palomino wins inaugural BKFC King of the Streets Championship
Leonardo Perdomo def. Steve Herelius via KO in Round 1 (0:13)
Justin Ibarrola def. Abdiel Velazquez via KO in Round 2 (1:27)
Justin Street def. Matt Russo via TKO in Round 2 (2:00)
Julio Perez def. Lewis Glover via TKO in Round 2 (1:15)
Edgard Plazaola def. Louie Lopez via TKO in Round 3 (1:43)
Roberto Armas def. Chris Garcia via Unanimous Decision (50-45x2, 48-47)
Peter Peraza def. Kaine Tomlinson Jr. via KO in Round 3 (0:37)
AJ Rodriguez def. Corey Roberts via TKO in Round 3 (1:39)
Bear Hill def. Nicholas Blume via TKO in Round 3 (2:00)
Jancarlos Rivera def. Albert Inclan via Unanimous Decision (50-45x2, 49-46)
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Gabriela Fundora to defend vs. unbeaten Marilyn Badillo |
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Undisputed world flyweight champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (pictured) will face Marilyn Badillo (19-0-1) for the four major belts at 122 pounds. The fight will take place on April 19th of this year at the Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California, United States. DAZN will broadcast. At age 23, Fundora (15-0) is the youngest undisputed champion in the world. On the same card, Charles “Bad News” Conwell (21-0, 16 KOs), of Cleveland, is set to clash with former IBO title holder Jorge “Chino” Perez (32-4, 26 KOs), of Mexico, in a twelve-round junior middleweight battle.
The world’s youngest undisputed world champion, Fundora told the WBC, “I’m excited to make history again, this time defending my undisputed status against the hungry Badillo. This is my first main event and I can’t wait to show the world all the effort Team Fundora puts in to be the best.”
Badillo responded, “I worked hard to earn my spot and compete for this undisputed championship. I am excited to make my debut in the United States and make a splash in women’s boxing.”
“I’m so excited to get in the ring with someone ranked in the top ten,” said Conwell. “It’s time to show the world just how good I am.”
“I feel very motivated by this great opportunity,” said Perez. “I have always dreamed of reaching the top, and this fight is the challenge that brings me closer to that goal. I feel prepared, ready, and I will give my best to come out with the victory. Thanks to my team, Zanfer and everyone that made this possible. ¡Viva Mexico!”
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Gabriela Fundora to defend vs. unbeaten Marilyn Badillo
Undisputed world flyweight champion Gabriela “Sweet Poison” Fundora (pictured) will face Marilyn Badillo (19-0-1) for the four major belts at 122 pounds. The fight will take place on April 19th of this year at the Frontwave Arena in Oceanside, California, United States. DAZN will broadcast. At age 23, Fundora (15-0) is the youngest undisputed champion in the world. On the same card, Charles “Bad News” Conwell (21-0, 16 KOs), of Cleveland, is set to clash with former IBO title holder Jorge “Chino” Perez (32-4, 26 KOs), of Mexico, in a twelve-round junior middleweight battle.
The world’s youngest undisputed world champion, Fundora told the WBC, “I’m excited to make history again, this time defending my undisputed status against the hungry Badillo. This is my first main event and I can’t wait to show the world all the effort Team Fundora puts in to be the best.”
Badillo responded, “I worked hard to earn my spot and compete for this undisputed championship. I am excited to make my debut in the United States and make a splash in women’s boxing.”
“I’m so excited to get in the ring with someone ranked in the top ten,” said Conwell. “It’s time to show the world just how good I am.”
“I feel very motivated by this great opportunity,” said Perez. “I have always dreamed of reaching the top, and this fight is the challenge that brings me closer to that goal. I feel prepared, ready, and I will give my best to come out with the victory. Thanks to my team, Zanfer and everyone that made this possible. ¡Viva Mexico!”
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A few words with Brian Norman, Jr. |
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At the final press conference on Wednesday, Brian Norman Jr. had this to say about the first defense of his WBO welterweight title, which takes place today (Saturday March 29th) on ESPN from Las Vegas: “You’re not a real champion until you defend your title. And I’ve got a tough competitor ahead of me. I’m ready to prove myself... It is a transition from targeting others to now being a target. So now it’s not about looking out anymore but more so about looking in at the man in the mirror and on what I need to work on. I now have nothing holding me back regarding injuries. I’m very well rested. I’ve got my mind together. I’ve got everything together. And now it’s just time to prove myself.”
Norman, who defends against Puerto Rico's Derrieck Cuevas(27-1-1), added, “I hit hard. I got speed. I’m not going to get tired. I’ve got 12 rounds to beat you up if need be. You simply don’t have enough."
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A few words with Brian Norman, Jr.
At the final press conference on Wednesday, Brian Norman Jr. had this to say about the first defense of his WBO welterweight title, which takes place today (Saturday March 29th) on ESPN from Las Vegas: “You’re not a real champion until you defend your title. And I’ve got a tough competitor ahead of me. I’m ready to prove myself... It is a transition from targeting others to now being a target. So now it’s not about looking out anymore but more so about looking in at the man in the mirror and on what I need to work on. I now have nothing holding me back regarding injuries. I’m very well rested. I’ve got my mind together. I’ve got everything together. And now it’s just time to prove myself.”
Norman, who defends against Puerto Rico's Derrieck Cuevas(27-1-1), added, “I hit hard. I got speed. I’m not going to get tired. I’ve got 12 rounds to beat you up if need be. You simply don’t have enough."
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas |
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Here are the weigh-in results from the BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ will air the two featured fights at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Mikaela Mayer 146 pounds -vs.- Sandy Ryan 145.5
(ten rounds for Mayer's WBO welterweight championship); and
Brian Norman Jr. 146.7 -vs.- Derrieck Cuevas 146.3
(twelve rounds for Norman's WBO welterweight championship).
The undercard bouts will be streamed on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT:
Bruce Carrington 125.3 -vs.- Jose Enrique Vivas 125.8
(WBC featherweight eliminator — ten rounds);
Emiliano Fernando Vargas 138.6 -vs.- Giovannie Gonzalez 138.3 (eight rounds);
Tiger Johnson 146 -vs.- Kendo Castañeda 146.8 (eight rounds);
Dedrick Crocklem 128.6 -vs.- Dionne Ruvalcaba 128.8 (four rounds); and
Emmanuel Chance 119.4 -vs.- Miguel Guzman 118.7 (four rounds).
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas
Here are the weigh-in results from the BleauLive Theater at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ will air the two featured fights at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Mikaela Mayer 146 pounds -vs.- Sandy Ryan 145.5
(ten rounds for Mayer's WBO welterweight championship); and
Brian Norman Jr. 146.7 -vs.- Derrieck Cuevas 146.3
(twelve rounds for Norman's WBO welterweight championship).
The undercard bouts will be streamed on ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT:
Bruce Carrington 125.3 -vs.- Jose Enrique Vivas 125.8
(WBC featherweight eliminator — ten rounds);
Emiliano Fernando Vargas 138.6 -vs.- Giovannie Gonzalez 138.3 (eight rounds);
Tiger Johnson 146 -vs.- Kendo Castañeda 146.8 (eight rounds);
Dedrick Crocklem 128.6 -vs.- Dionne Ruvalcaba 128.8 (four rounds); and
Emmanuel Chance 119.4 -vs.- Miguel Guzman 118.7 (four rounds).
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Report: Kenzie Morrison heads to BKFC |
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Promoter Tony Holden wrote, "We extend our best wishes to Kenzie Morrison as he embarks on a new challenge in Bare Knuckle Boxing. Lou DiBella and I fully support this move, as we firmly believe that Kenzie has what it takes to become a champion. After achieving this milestone, Kenzie will be set to return to boxing, where a significant payday awaits." Morrison has a pro boxing record of 22-1-2 and last fought in November, an easy win over Jackson dos Santos.
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Report: Kenzie Morrison heads to BKFC
Promoter Tony Holden wrote, "We extend our best wishes to Kenzie Morrison as he embarks on a new challenge in Bare Knuckle Boxing. Lou DiBella and I fully support this move, as we firmly believe that Kenzie has what it takes to become a champion. After achieving this milestone, Kenzie will be set to return to boxing, where a significant payday awaits." Morrison has a pro boxing record of 22-1-2 and last fought in November, an easy win over Jackson dos Santos.
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DAZN to stream California show on April 25th |
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On Friday, April 25th, Paco Presents and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment will present the first installment of a pro boxing series from Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, and streamed live on global sports giant DAZN (9:00 pm ET/6:00 pm PT). In the ten-round light heavyweight main event, Mexico's Yair 'Manotas' Gallardo (9-0, 8 KOs) will face his toughest test to date in Reading, Pennsylvania’s David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-2, 10 KOs). In the eight-round co-feature, junior lightweight Justin Viloria (8-0, 6 KOs) of Whittier, CA, will take on Mexico’s Alejandro Yung Wong (12-1, 6 KOs).
With more than 100 fights on his amateur resume, Gallardo won three Mexican National Championships, the US Silver Gloves and took silver at the prestigious Junior Pan American Games in Colombia in 2021. Gallardo was also awarded 'Sportsman of the Year' in Mexican boxing for the year 2021 and was a top member of the Mexican National Team.
The power-punching 21-year-old turned professional in late 2022 and has had to go the scheduled distance just once in his nine fights. Currently on a four-fight knockout streak, Gallardo has never fought beyond six completed rounds. He was last seen brutalizing opponent Carlos Fidel Guiti Miranda in less than a round in February of this year.
“I'm very grateful for this great opportunity to return to the ring.” Said Gallardo. “Thank you to my companies, Miguel Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment, for believing in me. Thank you to Golden Boy for giving me this great opportunity. I'm ready to continue demonstrating my talent, fight after fight. Regarding Stevens, I can say he's a great boxer, and on April 26 in Los Angeles, we'll see who's the best in the ring. I hope to see you all in Los Angeles. I dedicate this fight to my city of Delicias in Chihuahua and all of Mexico.”
Stevens was also an accomplished amateur before turning professional in 2018, having won two Junior Olympic Gold Medals, a Silver Gloves Championship, a Ringside World Championship, and the 2017 USA Boxing Youth National title.
The 24-year-old Stevens was last seen fighting to a respectable and close split decision loss against international top prospect Bektemir Melikuziev of Uzbekistan in November of last year. Before that, Stevens impressively took the undefeated 0 from the formidable Sean Hemphill (then 14-0) by eighth-round knockout in January 2023.
“I am a man of few words, and I will show Yair and the boxing world that I am here to stay with my fists,” said David Stevens. “I want to thank everyone who has been with me since the beginning, and I can’t wait for fight night to give everyone a good show.”
I’m very excited to announce this series of boxing events at Thunder Studios in beautiful Long Beach,” said Paco Damian. “I have enjoyed a great relationship with Golden Boy Promotions for many years and I am delighted to promote shows with them again. It brings back many great memories of my days working with the great Don Chargin. These shows will open opportunities for all local fighters here in Los Angeles, where there has always been great talent. I am a huge boxing fan and l love great competitive fights like these. Do not miss it!”
"Both Yair Gallardo of Chihuahua, Mexico, and David Stevens of Reading, Pennsylvania, are top prospects with immense potential," said Oscar De La Hoya. "The winner of this fight will earn greater opportunities in the light heavyweight division. We are grateful to Paco Presents for their longstanding partnership and look forward to continuing our collaboration."
Also scheduled for action in separate bouts are junior lightweight Leonardo Rubalcava (9-0-1, 3 KOs) of Jurupa Valley, CA and Manuel Avila (25-2-1, 9 KOs) of Fairfield, CA,.
Tickets are available at events.thunderstudios.com.
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DAZN to stream California show on April 25th
On Friday, April 25th, Paco Presents and Golden Boy Promotions in association with Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment will present the first installment of a pro boxing series from Thunder Studios in Long Beach, California, and streamed live on global sports giant DAZN (9:00 pm ET/6:00 pm PT). In the ten-round light heavyweight main event, Mexico's Yair 'Manotas' Gallardo (9-0, 8 KOs) will face his toughest test to date in Reading, Pennsylvania’s David “Dynamite” Stevens (14-2, 10 KOs). In the eight-round co-feature, junior lightweight Justin Viloria (8-0, 6 KOs) of Whittier, CA, will take on Mexico’s Alejandro Yung Wong (12-1, 6 KOs).
With more than 100 fights on his amateur resume, Gallardo won three Mexican National Championships, the US Silver Gloves and took silver at the prestigious Junior Pan American Games in Colombia in 2021. Gallardo was also awarded 'Sportsman of the Year' in Mexican boxing for the year 2021 and was a top member of the Mexican National Team.
The power-punching 21-year-old turned professional in late 2022 and has had to go the scheduled distance just once in his nine fights. Currently on a four-fight knockout streak, Gallardo has never fought beyond six completed rounds. He was last seen brutalizing opponent Carlos Fidel Guiti Miranda in less than a round in February of this year.
“I'm very grateful for this great opportunity to return to the ring.” Said Gallardo. “Thank you to my companies, Miguel Cotto Promotions and H2 Entertainment, for believing in me. Thank you to Golden Boy for giving me this great opportunity. I'm ready to continue demonstrating my talent, fight after fight. Regarding Stevens, I can say he's a great boxer, and on April 26 in Los Angeles, we'll see who's the best in the ring. I hope to see you all in Los Angeles. I dedicate this fight to my city of Delicias in Chihuahua and all of Mexico.”
Stevens was also an accomplished amateur before turning professional in 2018, having won two Junior Olympic Gold Medals, a Silver Gloves Championship, a Ringside World Championship, and the 2017 USA Boxing Youth National title.
The 24-year-old Stevens was last seen fighting to a respectable and close split decision loss against international top prospect Bektemir Melikuziev of Uzbekistan in November of last year. Before that, Stevens impressively took the undefeated 0 from the formidable Sean Hemphill (then 14-0) by eighth-round knockout in January 2023.
“I am a man of few words, and I will show Yair and the boxing world that I am here to stay with my fists,” said David Stevens. “I want to thank everyone who has been with me since the beginning, and I can’t wait for fight night to give everyone a good show.”
I’m very excited to announce this series of boxing events at Thunder Studios in beautiful Long Beach,” said Paco Damian. “I have enjoyed a great relationship with Golden Boy Promotions for many years and I am delighted to promote shows with them again. It brings back many great memories of my days working with the great Don Chargin. These shows will open opportunities for all local fighters here in Los Angeles, where there has always been great talent. I am a huge boxing fan and l love great competitive fights like these. Do not miss it!”
"Both Yair Gallardo of Chihuahua, Mexico, and David Stevens of Reading, Pennsylvania, are top prospects with immense potential," said Oscar De La Hoya. "The winner of this fight will earn greater opportunities in the light heavyweight division. We are grateful to Paco Presents for their longstanding partnership and look forward to continuing our collaboration."
Also scheduled for action in separate bouts are junior lightweight Leonardo Rubalcava (9-0-1, 3 KOs) of Jurupa Valley, CA and Manuel Avila (25-2-1, 9 KOs) of Fairfield, CA,.
Tickets are available at events.thunderstudios.com.
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Report: Wilder books a comeback fight |
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Ring Magazine announced that former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder (pictured) will return to face Tyrrell Herndon in a heavyweight clash on June 27th in Wichita, Kansas. Wilder (43-4-1) has lost four of his last five, the last one being a knockout defeat at the hands of Zhilei Zhang. Herndon, age 37, is 24-5 with three straight wins since being knocked out by Richard Torrez, Jr. Herndon's last fight came in May 2024, a six-round split decision win over then-undefeated Rudy Silvas.
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Report: Wilder books a comeback fight
Ring Magazine announced that former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder (pictured) will return to face Tyrrell Herndon in a heavyweight clash on June 27th in Wichita, Kansas. Wilder (43-4-1) has lost four of his last five, the last one being a knockout defeat at the hands of Zhilei Zhang. Herndon, age 37, is 24-5 with three straight wins since being knocked out by Richard Torrez, Jr. Herndon's last fight came in May 2024, a six-round split decision win over then-undefeated Rudy Silvas.
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Saturday: Collazo defends title in enemy territory |
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Tomorrow (March 29th), the boxing world gears up for a big 105-pound showdown as unified champion Óscar Collazo (pictured) puts his WBA and WBO world titles on the line against Mexican challenger Edwin Cano. The Poliforum Benito Juárez in Cancún, Mexico, will set the stage for a high-stakes clash fueled by skill, ambition, and the promise of unforgettable action. Known as “El Pupilo,” Collazo (11-0, 8 KOs) steps into the ring as an exciting and rising star. The Puerto Rican has established himself as a technically refined, blending precision and power. Standing in his way is Edwin Cano (13-2-1, 4 KOs), who has the biggest opportunity of his career in front of him. While the odds may not favor him, the Mexican warrior is riding a wave of momentum, fueled by recent victories that have strengthened his confidence. In boxing, nothing is more dangerous than a motivated fighter with nothing to lose and everything to win.
Both fighters have undergone grueling training camps. Collazo has logged over 100 rounds of sparring, fine-tuning every aspect of his game, while Cano has focused on speed and endurance, making key adjustments to counter the champion’s methodical approach.
This fight is more than just a title defense—it’s a clash of styles and mindsets. Collazo will look to control the action from mid-range, using his sharp jab to systematically break down the challenger. Cano, on the other hand, will likely aim to close the distance, pressuring aggressively and forcing heated exchanges to turn the tide in his favor.
There’s also the undeniable factor of fighting on Cano’s home turf. A roaring Mexican crowd can often serve as an equalizer, especially in tightly contested battles. However, Collazo has shown he thrives under pressure, unfazed by the challenges of fighting on the road.
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Saturday: Collazo defends title in enemy territory
Tomorrow (March 29th), the boxing world gears up for a big 105-pound showdown as unified champion Óscar Collazo (pictured) puts his WBA and WBO world titles on the line against Mexican challenger Edwin Cano. The Poliforum Benito Juárez in Cancún, Mexico, will set the stage for a high-stakes clash fueled by skill, ambition, and the promise of unforgettable action. Known as “El Pupilo,” Collazo (11-0, 8 KOs) steps into the ring as an exciting and rising star. The Puerto Rican has established himself as a technically refined, blending precision and power. Standing in his way is Edwin Cano (13-2-1, 4 KOs), who has the biggest opportunity of his career in front of him. While the odds may not favor him, the Mexican warrior is riding a wave of momentum, fueled by recent victories that have strengthened his confidence. In boxing, nothing is more dangerous than a motivated fighter with nothing to lose and everything to win.
Both fighters have undergone grueling training camps. Collazo has logged over 100 rounds of sparring, fine-tuning every aspect of his game, while Cano has focused on speed and endurance, making key adjustments to counter the champion’s methodical approach.
This fight is more than just a title defense—it’s a clash of styles and mindsets. Collazo will look to control the action from mid-range, using his sharp jab to systematically break down the challenger. Cano, on the other hand, will likely aim to close the distance, pressuring aggressively and forcing heated exchanges to turn the tide in his favor.
There’s also the undeniable factor of fighting on Cano’s home turf. A roaring Mexican crowd can often serve as an equalizer, especially in tightly contested battles. However, Collazo has shown he thrives under pressure, unfazed by the challenges of fighting on the road.
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Taylor-Serrano III presser open to NYC fans |
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World junor welterweight champion Katie Taylor of Ireland and Brooklyn’s Puerto Rican world featherweight champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (pictured) will square off in a highly anticipated third bout, headlining an all‑women’s boxing mega‑event this July at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Get in on the action early, attend the open-to-the-public kick‑off press conference on April 9th at The Theater at MSG, hosted by Ariel Helwani. Tickets to the press conference are free, but tickets are limited. Secure your access by clicking here.
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Taylor-Serrano III presser open to NYC fans
World junor welterweight champion Katie Taylor of Ireland and Brooklyn’s Puerto Rican world featherweight champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (pictured) will square off in a highly anticipated third bout, headlining an all‑women’s boxing mega‑event this July at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Get in on the action early, attend the open-to-the-public kick‑off press conference on April 9th at The Theater at MSG, hosted by Ariel Helwani. Tickets to the press conference are free, but tickets are limited. Secure your access by clicking here.
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IBF orders Crocker vs. Sullivan II as an eliminator |
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The IBF has granted the appeal filed by Paddy Donovan regarding his controversial disqualification in the eighth round of his March 1st welterweight title eliminator against Lewis Crocker at SSE Arena (Odyssey Arena) in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Donovan appealed, requesting an immediate rematch between the two boxers. Keith Sullivan, Donovan’s co-manager along with trainer Andy Lee, is a New York City-based lawyer who manages multiple fighters, said, “I am very happy that the IBF agreed with my arguments and evidence, they made the right decision under the rules. The rematch will be even bigger than the first fight. The crowd and fans around the globe absolutely loved it; the atmosphere in the arena was electric. It was a great promotion put on by Matchroom and it is unfortunate it ended as it did, but now Paddy will set the record straight and continue his quest for a world title.”
Donovan was dominating Crocker after eight rounds. The judges scored the first seven rounds 69-63, 69-63 and 67-65. He knocked Lewis down earlier in the eighth round with a right hook. Moments later, the Limerick fighter was shockingly disqualified by referee Marcus McDonnell for hitting Lewis, who was trapped on the ropes, a mere fraction of a second after the bell sounded to end the round. Donovan threw the unintentionally late punch because he was unable to immediately hear the bell over the 8,000 raucous fans screaming at what appeared to be a major victory for Donovan, in addition to the referee not adequately performing his ring duties.
The timekeeper’s ten-second warning was not audible on any of the multiple videos recorded by DAZN, the broadcaster of the event, and submitted by Sullivan. Since the timekeeper never rang the ten-second bell, referee McDonnell never shouted the customary ten-second warning and never positioned himself near the fighters to give the visual indication to them that the round was nearing the end and to be ready to separate the two at the bell. This positioning was especially needed for safety reasons because Donovan was seriously damaging Crocker by throwing a rapid series of blistering combinations. Oddly, the referee walked backwards away from the two fighters during the final 10 seconds of the round instead of positioning himself close enough to step between the two fighters as the bell sounded. He never called time or yelled stop at the bell and appeared himself to be caught off guard when the bell rang.
The appeal also noted that throughout the fight Crocker had hunched forward and led with his head towards Donovan, placing his head in the open space between the fighters. With 40 seconds remaining in the eighth round, the referee called time out and deducted a second point from Donovan, even though multiple videos and still pictures showed nothing warranting a penalty under the rules and regulations. At no point in time was Crocker warned, let alone deducted a point for leading with his head.
The lengthy appeal submitted by Sullivan, cited the applicable rules of both the IBF and ABC (Association of Boxing Commissions), provided multiple video angles, still photos, an expert referee opinion, and a statement from Donovan himself to demonstrate Crocker’s dubious tactics, and the referee’s errors throughout the bout. Sullivan argued that there was no clear evidence that Donovan intentionally committed the foul, which is a necessary requirement for a disqualification in that situation. Thus, under the rules, Donovan should have been given a warning or as much as a two-point deduction for the accidental late punch and Crocker awarded five minutes in addition to the one-minute rest period between rounds, and the fight allowed to continue. If Crocker was unable to continue, a technical decision should have been called by the referee and the winner decided on the scores as submitted through eight rounds.
“I am very proud of the support Keith and Andy provided to me during the process,” Donovan stated. “I have a great team around me. I am pleased with the outcome of the appeal. I am eager to get back in the ring to showcase my boxing abilities once again and continue on the path to a world title.”
“Thank you to President Peoples and the IBF,” Lee added. “The world saw what happened on March 1st. We look forward to setting the record straight.”
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IBF orders Crocker vs. Sullivan II as an eliminator
The IBF has granted the appeal filed by Paddy Donovan regarding his controversial disqualification in the eighth round of his March 1st welterweight title eliminator against Lewis Crocker at SSE Arena (Odyssey Arena) in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Donovan appealed, requesting an immediate rematch between the two boxers. Keith Sullivan, Donovan’s co-manager along with trainer Andy Lee, is a New York City-based lawyer who manages multiple fighters, said, “I am very happy that the IBF agreed with my arguments and evidence, they made the right decision under the rules. The rematch will be even bigger than the first fight. The crowd and fans around the globe absolutely loved it; the atmosphere in the arena was electric. It was a great promotion put on by Matchroom and it is unfortunate it ended as it did, but now Paddy will set the record straight and continue his quest for a world title.”
Donovan was dominating Crocker after eight rounds. The judges scored the first seven rounds 69-63, 69-63 and 67-65. He knocked Lewis down earlier in the eighth round with a right hook. Moments later, the Limerick fighter was shockingly disqualified by referee Marcus McDonnell for hitting Lewis, who was trapped on the ropes, a mere fraction of a second after the bell sounded to end the round. Donovan threw the unintentionally late punch because he was unable to immediately hear the bell over the 8,000 raucous fans screaming at what appeared to be a major victory for Donovan, in addition to the referee not adequately performing his ring duties.
The timekeeper’s ten-second warning was not audible on any of the multiple videos recorded by DAZN, the broadcaster of the event, and submitted by Sullivan. Since the timekeeper never rang the ten-second bell, referee McDonnell never shouted the customary ten-second warning and never positioned himself near the fighters to give the visual indication to them that the round was nearing the end and to be ready to separate the two at the bell. This positioning was especially needed for safety reasons because Donovan was seriously damaging Crocker by throwing a rapid series of blistering combinations. Oddly, the referee walked backwards away from the two fighters during the final 10 seconds of the round instead of positioning himself close enough to step between the two fighters as the bell sounded. He never called time or yelled stop at the bell and appeared himself to be caught off guard when the bell rang.
The appeal also noted that throughout the fight Crocker had hunched forward and led with his head towards Donovan, placing his head in the open space between the fighters. With 40 seconds remaining in the eighth round, the referee called time out and deducted a second point from Donovan, even though multiple videos and still pictures showed nothing warranting a penalty under the rules and regulations. At no point in time was Crocker warned, let alone deducted a point for leading with his head.
The lengthy appeal submitted by Sullivan, cited the applicable rules of both the IBF and ABC (Association of Boxing Commissions), provided multiple video angles, still photos, an expert referee opinion, and a statement from Donovan himself to demonstrate Crocker’s dubious tactics, and the referee’s errors throughout the bout. Sullivan argued that there was no clear evidence that Donovan intentionally committed the foul, which is a necessary requirement for a disqualification in that situation. Thus, under the rules, Donovan should have been given a warning or as much as a two-point deduction for the accidental late punch and Crocker awarded five minutes in addition to the one-minute rest period between rounds, and the fight allowed to continue. If Crocker was unable to continue, a technical decision should have been called by the referee and the winner decided on the scores as submitted through eight rounds.
“I am very proud of the support Keith and Andy provided to me during the process,” Donovan stated. “I have a great team around me. I am pleased with the outcome of the appeal. I am eager to get back in the ring to showcase my boxing abilities once again and continue on the path to a world title.”
“Thank you to President Peoples and the IBF,” Lee added. “The world saw what happened on March 1st. We look forward to setting the record straight.”
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Details emerge for next month's Boxing Grand Prix |
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WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán led an important virtual meeting with the participants of the upcoming Boxing Grand Prix. The virtual meeting served as a platform to detail crucial aspects of the tournament, the first stage of which will be held from April 17th to 20th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. During the session, President Sulaimán connected directly with the boxers and those involved in the event. He expressed his deep gratitude to His Excellency Turki Alalshiek for his invaluable support, which was instrumental in making the dream of Mauricio's father, José Sulaimán, long-time president of the WBC, a reality. He also highlighted the impressive turnout generated by the tournament, with thousands of boxer applications received. Here are some key details of the Boxing Grand Prix:
First Stage: April 17-20;
Venue: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia;
Divisions: featherweight, junior welterweight, middleweight and heavyweight;
Participants: 32 boxers per division;
Countries Represented: Over 40;
Bout Format: 64 bouts over 6 rounds;
Scoring: Open scoring after the second and fourth rounds;
Round End: Buzzer 30 seconds before the end;
Judges: Positioned in high chairs for better viewing;
Tournament Format: Single Elimination;
Results: No draws;
Technology: Instant Replay will be implemented;
Refereeing: Guaranteed neutrality with referees and judges of different nationalities;
Prize: A little over $200,000 for the winners;
Reserves: Reserve fighters will be available for any eventuality; and
Streaming: Exclusive on http://dazn.com/wbc
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Details emerge for next month's Boxing Grand Prix
WBC president Mauricio Sulaimán led an important virtual meeting with the participants of the upcoming Boxing Grand Prix. The virtual meeting served as a platform to detail crucial aspects of the tournament, the first stage of which will be held from April 17th to 20th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. During the session, President Sulaimán connected directly with the boxers and those involved in the event. He expressed his deep gratitude to His Excellency Turki Alalshiek for his invaluable support, which was instrumental in making the dream of Mauricio's father, José Sulaimán, long-time president of the WBC, a reality. He also highlighted the impressive turnout generated by the tournament, with thousands of boxer applications received. Here are some key details of the Boxing Grand Prix:
First Stage: April 17-20;
Venue: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia;
Divisions: featherweight, junior welterweight, middleweight and heavyweight;
Participants: 32 boxers per division;
Countries Represented: Over 40;
Bout Format: 64 bouts over 6 rounds;
Scoring: Open scoring after the second and fourth rounds;
Round End: Buzzer 30 seconds before the end;
Judges: Positioned in high chairs for better viewing;
Tournament Format: Single Elimination;
Results: No draws;
Technology: Instant Replay will be implemented;
Refereeing: Guaranteed neutrality with referees and judges of different nationalities;
Prize: A little over $200,000 for the winners;
Reserves: Reserve fighters will be available for any eventuality; and
Streaming: Exclusive on http://dazn.com/wbc
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Introducing teenager Perla Bazaldua |
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Perla Bazaldua, a 15-time national amateur champion from Los Angeles, has signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. The 19 year-old junior bantamweight is LA's latest female boxing star to sign with Top Rank, folowing multi-weight world champions and pound-for-pound queens Mikaela Mayer and Seniesa Estrada. Bazaldua (1-0, 1 KO) will make her Top Rank debut in a four-rounder on Saturday, May 10th as part of the Emanuel Navarrete-Charly Suarez card in San Diego. She is co-managed by George Ruiz, who has guided Mayer’s entire career, and her head trainer/co-manager is Manny Robles, who has worked with the likes of Andy Ruiz Jr., Oscar Valdez, Serhii Bohachuk, and reigning WBO featherweight champion Rafael Espinoza.
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Introducing teenager Perla Bazaldua
Perla Bazaldua, a 15-time national amateur champion from Los Angeles, has signed a long-term promotional contract with Top Rank. The 19 year-old junior bantamweight is LA's latest female boxing star to sign with Top Rank, folowing multi-weight world champions and pound-for-pound queens Mikaela Mayer and Seniesa Estrada. Bazaldua (1-0, 1 KO) will make her Top Rank debut in a four-rounder on Saturday, May 10th as part of the Emanuel Navarrete-Charly Suarez card in San Diego. She is co-managed by George Ruiz, who has guided Mayer’s entire career, and her head trainer/co-manager is Manny Robles, who has worked with the likes of Andy Ruiz Jr., Oscar Valdez, Serhii Bohachuk, and reigning WBO featherweight champion Rafael Espinoza.
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Pittsburgh boxing scene is heating up |
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On Saturday night, April 19th, Integrity Pro Boxing will launch a new televised series on Sportsnet Pittsburgh from the Hollywood Casino at The Meadows in Washington, Pennsylvania The first episode will air on a one-day delay, April 20th at 5:30 PM, and again on April 21st at 7 PM on Sportsnet Pittsburgh as well as on Sportsnet Pittsburgh Plus. In the eight-round light heavyweight main event, Devon Siegfried takes on Samuel Wildenhaus Siegfried of Pittsburgh, has a record of 4-1 with four knockouts. The 31 year-old is a two-year pro looking to get back in the win column after losing to Mirady Lubanzadio Zola last October. Wildenhaus, from Kathering, Ohio, has a record of 12-3 with seven knockouts. The 26 year-old is a six year professional who has won seven straight and is coming off a fourth-round stoppage of Terry Roscoe on November 16, 2024 in Charleston, Ohio.
Michael McSorley of Integrity Fighter Management, is excited about the new venture. “Pittsburgh produced Harry Greb, the greatest boxer who ever lived. This region has a great history in combat sports that is alive today. Our main goal with this series is to produce great fights and make them easily accessible to watch for the region's sports fans.”
UNDERCARD
In eight-round bouts, junior middleweight Ivan Dancha (5-1, 3 KOs) of Pittsburgh takes on Cody Wilson (14-4, 9 KOs) of West Virginia...
Ohio's Andre Donovan (11-2, 7 KOs) faces Jesus Martinez (38-25-1, 16 KOs) of Miami in a bantamweight contest...
Anthony Bizzarro (10-0, 6 KOs) of Erie, PA fights Eric Palmer (15-19-5, 3 KOs) at junior lightweight...
In four-round bouts, Thomas Parker (2-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh fights Matthew Acosta (1-1, 1 KO) of Erie, PA at junior middleweight...
Danny Bodish (3-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh battles Jaden Webb (2-4, 2 KOs) in a featherweight bout...
Salvatire Desimone (2-0,1 KO) of Coraopolis, PA fights Denzel Bowlding (0-4) of Glen Burnie, MD in a super featherweight bout.
Rodreko Jennings of Brooklyn, MD will make his pro debut against Corey Stewart (0-1) of Saint Rose, LA in a welterweight tussle and...
In a six-round bout, Maryland welterweight Maximus Garland (7-0, 7 KOs) will take on an opponent to be named.
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Pittsburgh boxing scene is heating up
On Saturday night, April 19th, Integrity Pro Boxing will launch a new televised series on Sportsnet Pittsburgh from the Hollywood Casino at The Meadows in Washington, Pennsylvania The first episode will air on a one-day delay, April 20th at 5:30 PM, and again on April 21st at 7 PM on Sportsnet Pittsburgh as well as on Sportsnet Pittsburgh Plus. In the eight-round light heavyweight main event, Devon Siegfried takes on Samuel Wildenhaus Siegfried of Pittsburgh, has a record of 4-1 with four knockouts. The 31 year-old is a two-year pro looking to get back in the win column after losing to Mirady Lubanzadio Zola last October. Wildenhaus, from Kathering, Ohio, has a record of 12-3 with seven knockouts. The 26 year-old is a six year professional who has won seven straight and is coming off a fourth-round stoppage of Terry Roscoe on November 16, 2024 in Charleston, Ohio.
Michael McSorley of Integrity Fighter Management, is excited about the new venture. “Pittsburgh produced Harry Greb, the greatest boxer who ever lived. This region has a great history in combat sports that is alive today. Our main goal with this series is to produce great fights and make them easily accessible to watch for the region's sports fans.”
UNDERCARD
In eight-round bouts, junior middleweight Ivan Dancha (5-1, 3 KOs) of Pittsburgh takes on Cody Wilson (14-4, 9 KOs) of West Virginia...
Ohio's Andre Donovan (11-2, 7 KOs) faces Jesus Martinez (38-25-1, 16 KOs) of Miami in a bantamweight contest...
Anthony Bizzarro (10-0, 6 KOs) of Erie, PA fights Eric Palmer (15-19-5, 3 KOs) at junior lightweight...
In four-round bouts, Thomas Parker (2-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh fights Matthew Acosta (1-1, 1 KO) of Erie, PA at junior middleweight...
Danny Bodish (3-0, 2 KOs) of Pittsburgh battles Jaden Webb (2-4, 2 KOs) in a featherweight bout...
Salvatire Desimone (2-0,1 KO) of Coraopolis, PA fights Denzel Bowlding (0-4) of Glen Burnie, MD in a super featherweight bout.
Rodreko Jennings of Brooklyn, MD will make his pro debut against Corey Stewart (0-1) of Saint Rose, LA in a welterweight tussle and...
In a six-round bout, Maryland welterweight Maximus Garland (7-0, 7 KOs) will take on an opponent to be named.
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Asa Stevens to headline Fight Club OC show |
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A solid pro boxing / mixed martial arts lineup awaits fight fans on Thursday, April 17th as Fight Club OC gears up for a night of action inside The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California. This show is set to feature Golden Boy Promotions' rising super bantamweight Asa Stevens (7-0) in a six-round bout. Stevens is set to face Luis Alvarado Morales (9-4). Stevens had a 36-4 amateur record and is managed by David McWater. The April 17th show will also showcase some of Orange County's best up and coming talent as four local area fighters will be making their pro debut's on this card. Don’t miss the experience that is Fight Club OC, “the most fun you can have on a Thursday night in Orange County”. Tickets still remain available for online purchase at www.socafights.com.
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Asa Stevens to headline Fight Club OC show
A solid pro boxing / mixed martial arts lineup awaits fight fans on Thursday, April 17th as Fight Club OC gears up for a night of action inside The Hangar at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California. This show is set to feature Golden Boy Promotions' rising super bantamweight Asa Stevens (7-0) in a six-round bout. Stevens is set to face Luis Alvarado Morales (9-4). Stevens had a 36-4 amateur record and is managed by David McWater. The April 17th show will also showcase some of Orange County's best up and coming talent as four local area fighters will be making their pro debut's on this card. Don’t miss the experience that is Fight Club OC, “the most fun you can have on a Thursday night in Orange County”. Tickets still remain available for online purchase at www.socafights.com.
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Queensberry reveals more details on Josh Taylor comeback show |
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On Saturday May 24th, Queensberry Promotions brings boxing to Glasgow with a clash between former undisputed world junior welterweight champion Josh Taylor and former British welterweight champion Ekow Essuman. A hero in Scotland, Taylor is known as the "Tartan Tornado." Coming off a loss to Teofimo Lopez, he hopes to reinvent himself at 147 pounds but he has to get by a once-defeated former GB teammate from Nottingham. Also on the show, rising heavyweight Moses Itauma will introduce himself to the Scottish public in his twelfth fight as a professional, but two smaller men will be looking to grab the headlines on the night.
Former British featherweight champion Nathaniel Collins takes on former European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor. Up at cruiserweight, it will be England vs Scotland when force of nature Aloys Jr. is matched with David Jamieson. Queensberry’s young Scottish boxers, Drew Limond, Alex Arthur Jr. and Reece Lynch have the chance to shine in separate bouts, with Arthur and Lynch making their professional debuts.
The show will be Queensberry’s third chapter of its new deal with DAZN. “We will be kept on our toes at all times,” explained Queensberry's Frank Warren. “With multiple promoters on the platform, we all want to be the best and put together the strongest shows that attract the biggest audiences. We intend to be #1.”
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Queensberry reveals more details on Josh Taylor comeback show
On Saturday May 24th, Queensberry Promotions brings boxing to Glasgow with a clash between former undisputed world junior welterweight champion Josh Taylor and former British welterweight champion Ekow Essuman. A hero in Scotland, Taylor is known as the "Tartan Tornado." Coming off a loss to Teofimo Lopez, he hopes to reinvent himself at 147 pounds but he has to get by a once-defeated former GB teammate from Nottingham. Also on the show, rising heavyweight Moses Itauma will introduce himself to the Scottish public in his twelfth fight as a professional, but two smaller men will be looking to grab the headlines on the night.
Former British featherweight champion Nathaniel Collins takes on former European bantamweight champion Lee McGregor. Up at cruiserweight, it will be England vs Scotland when force of nature Aloys Jr. is matched with David Jamieson. Queensberry’s young Scottish boxers, Drew Limond, Alex Arthur Jr. and Reece Lynch have the chance to shine in separate bouts, with Arthur and Lynch making their professional debuts.
The show will be Queensberry’s third chapter of its new deal with DAZN. “We will be kept on our toes at all times,” explained Queensberry's Frank Warren. “With multiple promoters on the platform, we all want to be the best and put together the strongest shows that attract the biggest audiences. We intend to be #1.”
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Mayer vs. Ryan II presser quotes |
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Six months after a tremendous and controversial fight, WBO welterweight champion Mikaela Mayer and Sandy Ryan faced off in advance of Saturday's rematch at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. The war of words evolved into a long, steely staredown Wednesday afternoon outside of the Bleaulive Theater. In the co-feature, Brian Norman Jr. (26-0, 20 KOs) will make the inaugural defense of his WBO welterweight championship against Puerto Rican challenger Derrieck Cuevas (27-1-1, 19 KOs). Mayer-Ryan II and Norman-Cuevas will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The ESPN+-streamed undercard begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and features Brooklyn featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (14-0, 8 KOs), who faces Mexican slugger Jose Enrique Vivas (23-3, 12 KOs) in a ten-round WBC eliminator.Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MatchroomBoxing, tickets are available via Ticketmaster.com. This is what Mayer and Ryan had to say to Sky Sports after Wednesday's faceoff: ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
Mikaela Mayer vs. Sandy Ryan, 10 rounds, Mayer's WBO Welterweight Title; and
Bruce Carrington vs. Jose Enrique Vivas, 10 rounds, WBC featherweight eliminator;
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Mayer vs. Ryan II presser quotes
Six months after a tremendous and controversial fight, WBO welterweight champion Mikaela Mayer and Sandy Ryan faced off in advance of Saturday's rematch at the Fontainebleau in Las Vegas. The war of words evolved into a long, steely staredown Wednesday afternoon outside of the Bleaulive Theater. In the co-feature, Brian Norman Jr. (26-0, 20 KOs) will make the inaugural defense of his WBO welterweight championship against Puerto Rican challenger Derrieck Cuevas (27-1-1, 19 KOs). Mayer-Ryan II and Norman-Cuevas will be broadcast LIVE on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The ESPN+-streamed undercard begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT and features Brooklyn featherweight Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (14-0, 8 KOs), who faces Mexican slugger Jose Enrique Vivas (23-3, 12 KOs) in a ten-round WBC eliminator.Promoted by Top Rank, in association with MatchroomBoxing, tickets are available via Ticketmaster.com. This is what Mayer and Ryan had to say to Sky Sports after Wednesday's faceoff: ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT)
Mikaela Mayer vs. Sandy Ryan, 10 rounds, Mayer's WBO Welterweight Title; and
Bruce Carrington vs. Jose Enrique Vivas, 10 rounds, WBC featherweight eliminator;
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