Is Amir Khan ducking Conor Benn? |
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Is Amir Khan ducking Conor Benn? After stopping Samuel Vargas in round one over the weekend, unbeaten Conor Benn quickly expressed his desire for a big British clash against the former 140-pound champion, who struggled with, but ultimately defeated Vargas in 2018. Khan begged off the fight, tweeting, "Conor well done. Great kid, wish him the best. At his age I was a world champ. Maybe if he had some belts that fight would make sense but he’s got a long way to go yet."
Khan was responding to the following post-fight comment from Benn: "[This win] shows the level I’m at. Errol Spence, Danny Garcia, Vergil Ortiz, Amir Khan – nobody banged [Vargas] out like that. First round, first round! He came and he was game. He took my belt off me in the week and I had a little stare down with him. He was telling me he was ready to fight, and he was talking a good game. He said I had no power. It’s irrelevant because a lot of people can talk. My shots were landing flush. You could tell they were hurting him. When I first hit him it landed swiftly and I thought, ‘right, this is going to be a much quicker night than I thought’. I’ve been working on my power with my strength and conditioning coach Dan Lawrence. We’ve been working with Tony, endless hours. First to arrive last to leave. He’s always pushing me. I told you lot I’d knock him out in the first round. I was cool, calm and collected. I work so hard. Give me Amir Khan. I know he’s too busy on reality TV. If he wants it, he can have it. I can deal with pressure. I can cope with it. I can live with it, no problem. I’m ready for the top dogs – Shawn Porter, Adrien Broner? Forget the word prospect, I ain’t a prospect no more.”
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Is Amir Khan ducking Conor Benn?
Is Amir Khan ducking Conor Benn? After stopping Samuel Vargas in round one over the weekend, unbeaten Conor Benn quickly expressed his desire for a big British clash against the former 140-pound champion, who struggled with, but ultimately defeated Vargas in 2018. Khan begged off the fight, tweeting, "Conor well done. Great kid, wish him the best. At his age I was a world champ. Maybe if he had some belts that fight would make sense but he’s got a long way to go yet."
Khan was responding to the following post-fight comment from Benn: "[This win] shows the level I’m at. Errol Spence, Danny Garcia, Vergil Ortiz, Amir Khan – nobody banged [Vargas] out like that. First round, first round! He came and he was game. He took my belt off me in the week and I had a little stare down with him. He was telling me he was ready to fight, and he was talking a good game. He said I had no power. It’s irrelevant because a lot of people can talk. My shots were landing flush. You could tell they were hurting him. When I first hit him it landed swiftly and I thought, ‘right, this is going to be a much quicker night than I thought’. I’ve been working on my power with my strength and conditioning coach Dan Lawrence. We’ve been working with Tony, endless hours. First to arrive last to leave. He’s always pushing me. I told you lot I’d knock him out in the first round. I was cool, calm and collected. I work so hard. Give me Amir Khan. I know he’s too busy on reality TV. If he wants it, he can have it. I can deal with pressure. I can cope with it. I can live with it, no problem. I’m ready for the top dogs – Shawn Porter, Adrien Broner? Forget the word prospect, I ain’t a prospect no more.”
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Smith wins exciting, razor-thin decision vs. Vlasov |
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Joe Smith Jr. W12 Maxim Vlasov... Joe Smith Jr., the common man with the common name, finally reached boxing's apex. Smith used a late rally to edge Maxim Vlasov by majority decision and win the vacant WBO light heavyweight championship Saturday evening at Osage Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The scorecards — 114-114, 115-113 and 115-112 — represented the nip-and-tuck nature of the bout. [It was an exciting bout that Boxingtalk thought could have goe either way]. Smith (27-3, 21 KOs), from Long Island, New York, swept the last two rounds on the cards to pull out the victory and joins Jamel Herring as a Long Island-born world champion. He now sets his sights on the division's other champions, including WBC/IBF king Artur Beterbiev.
Vlasov (45-4, 26 KOs), from Samara Russia, saw his three-bout winning streak come to an end. He disagreed with the scoring and believes the world title should be going home to Russia.
Smith said, “It’s a great feeling. It was definitely a close, tough fight. I give it to Vlasov. Great fighter. He really put on a great show tonight and toughed it out. I believe that round where I hurt him there… I believe he had his head down, and I should’ve got the knockout. I think I would’ve got the stoppage in {the 11th} round, but he pulled it off and made it out on his feet. I believe I got the victory tonight because they saw I landed the harder shots. He landed a lot of punches. It was a great fight.
“I want the other belts. I want the big fights out there. Now I gotta get back in the gym and keep working on my technique and stuff. I believe I’m going to start unifying belts.”
“This was a very hard-fought, competitive fight," Vlasov said. "I thought I was winning rounds and was well ahead. Against the aggressive style of Joe Smith, I came forward the entire fight. I felt confident I was winning and was securing rounds in the bank with the judges. I never felt that I was behind at any stage of the fight. This was my opportunity to show the world I was a world champion, and I did that, and Joe Smith knows I did that.” source: top rank
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Smith wins exciting, razor-thin decision vs. Vlasov
Joe Smith Jr. W12 Maxim Vlasov... Joe Smith Jr., the common man with the common name, finally reached boxing's apex. Smith used a late rally to edge Maxim Vlasov by majority decision and win the vacant WBO light heavyweight championship Saturday evening at Osage Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The scorecards — 114-114, 115-113 and 115-112 — represented the nip-and-tuck nature of the bout. [It was an exciting bout that Boxingtalk thought could have goe either way]. Smith (27-3, 21 KOs), from Long Island, New York, swept the last two rounds on the cards to pull out the victory and joins Jamel Herring as a Long Island-born world champion. He now sets his sights on the division's other champions, including WBC/IBF king Artur Beterbiev.
Vlasov (45-4, 26 KOs), from Samara Russia, saw his three-bout winning streak come to an end. He disagreed with the scoring and believes the world title should be going home to Russia.
Smith said, “It’s a great feeling. It was definitely a close, tough fight. I give it to Vlasov. Great fighter. He really put on a great show tonight and toughed it out. I believe that round where I hurt him there… I believe he had his head down, and I should’ve got the knockout. I think I would’ve got the stoppage in {the 11th} round, but he pulled it off and made it out on his feet. I believe I got the victory tonight because they saw I landed the harder shots. He landed a lot of punches. It was a great fight.
“I want the other belts. I want the big fights out there. Now I gotta get back in the gym and keep working on my technique and stuff. I believe I’m going to start unifying belts.”
“This was a very hard-fought, competitive fight," Vlasov said. "I thought I was winning rounds and was well ahead. Against the aggressive style of Joe Smith, I came forward the entire fight. I felt confident I was winning and was securing rounds in the bank with the judges. I never felt that I was behind at any stage of the fight. This was my opportunity to show the world I was a world champion, and I did that, and Joe Smith knows I did that.” source: top rank
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Ennis comes up big in win over Lipinets |
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Jaron Ennis KO6 Sergey Lipinets... Welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis aced the toughest test of his professional career with a big sixth-round knockout win over former IBF 140-pound champion Sergey Lipinets on Saturday night’s Showtime Championship Boxing at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. The win puts Philadelphia’s Ennis (27-0, 25 KOs) one step closer to his first world title opportunity as he dismantled Lipinets over six rounds of their welterweight battle. As he has done often throughout his career, the 23 year-old switched effortlessly between an orthodox and southpaw stance and exhibited tremendous power from both sides. Ennis finished the fight with an eye-popping 53% connect rate on his power punches and out-landed Lipinets 91 to 48.
“I’ll always be hard on myself when I look back at my performance,” said Ennis. “My goal is to keep getting better, sharper, faster and stronger so I can become world champion. As long as I keep fighting top guys, I’m happy. I feel like I will be world champion by the end of this year or beginning of next year. Patience is the key though.”
The 32 year-old Joe Goossen-trained Lipinets (16-2-1, 12 KOs) of Woodland Hills, Calif., showed determination in weathering the onslaught of combinations from Ennis. An uppercut floored the Kazakhstan-born Lipinets and sent him to the canvas for the second time in his professional career in the fourth round. Prior to tonight, Lipinets had only been down in his other professional loss which came at the hands of four-division world champion Mikey Garcia.
“Lipinets has been in there with the best before, so I wasn’t surprised he held up for a while,” added Ennis. “I knew he’d be durable. That’s why I didn’t jump on the gas right away. I just took my time and broke him down.”
In the sixth round, Ennis poured it on Lipinets from all angles as he beautifully assembled combinations. The budding superstar has yet to go past the sixth round in his professional career as he has amassed a remarkable 89% knockout ratio. Ennis was up 49-45 on two scorecards and 50-44 on the final judges’ card prior to the right hook to left uppercut combination that resulted in the fight being stopped at 2:11 of round six. “I think I graduated tonight,” stated Ennis. “It’s on the up and up now. It’s onto bigger and better fights now.” source: showtime
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Ennis comes up big in win over Lipinets
Jaron Ennis KO6 Sergey Lipinets... Welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis aced the toughest test of his professional career with a big sixth-round knockout win over former IBF 140-pound champion Sergey Lipinets on Saturday night’s Showtime Championship Boxing at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn. The win puts Philadelphia’s Ennis (27-0, 25 KOs) one step closer to his first world title opportunity as he dismantled Lipinets over six rounds of their welterweight battle. As he has done often throughout his career, the 23 year-old switched effortlessly between an orthodox and southpaw stance and exhibited tremendous power from both sides. Ennis finished the fight with an eye-popping 53% connect rate on his power punches and out-landed Lipinets 91 to 48.
“I’ll always be hard on myself when I look back at my performance,” said Ennis. “My goal is to keep getting better, sharper, faster and stronger so I can become world champion. As long as I keep fighting top guys, I’m happy. I feel like I will be world champion by the end of this year or beginning of next year. Patience is the key though.”
The 32 year-old Joe Goossen-trained Lipinets (16-2-1, 12 KOs) of Woodland Hills, Calif., showed determination in weathering the onslaught of combinations from Ennis. An uppercut floored the Kazakhstan-born Lipinets and sent him to the canvas for the second time in his professional career in the fourth round. Prior to tonight, Lipinets had only been down in his other professional loss which came at the hands of four-division world champion Mikey Garcia.
“Lipinets has been in there with the best before, so I wasn’t surprised he held up for a while,” added Ennis. “I knew he’d be durable. That’s why I didn’t jump on the gas right away. I just took my time and broke him down.”
In the sixth round, Ennis poured it on Lipinets from all angles as he beautifully assembled combinations. The budding superstar has yet to go past the sixth round in his professional career as he has amassed a remarkable 89% knockout ratio. Ennis was up 49-45 on two scorecards and 50-44 on the final judges’ card prior to the right hook to left uppercut combination that resulted in the fight being stopped at 2:11 of round six. “I think I graduated tonight,” stated Ennis. “It’s on the up and up now. It’s onto bigger and better fights now.” source: showtime
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Ancajas retains title against Rodriguez |
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Jerwin Ancajas W12 Jonathan Rodríguez ... In the Showtime telecast opener, IBF 115-pound champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas (31-1-2, 22 KOs) successfully defended his title for the ninth time with a unanimous decision victory over Jonathan Rodríguez (21-2, 16 KOs) in an action-packed twelve-round affair. The nine consecutive title defenses marks the most of any current champion. Fighting out of the Philippines, the 29 year-old controlled the pace of the fight with a consistent dedication to the body, where he landed 131 of his 232 total punches. The ringside judges scored the fight 115-112, 116-111 and 117-110 for Ancajas, while unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood tallied the fight at 114-113. Farhood agreed with the three official judges in giving the final three rounds to Rodriguez. Despite dropping the decision, the 25 year-old Rodriguez showed tremendous determination and high-level skill in his first world title fight and U.S. debut.
“I’m very happy to get the win. I waited a long time for the opportunity to get back in the ring and it’s exciting to win in my first fight on this stage fighting on Showtime,” said Ancajas. “This was my toughest fight so far. It was the hardest of any of my nine defenses and it’s exciting that it was on a big card. I trained hard for this opportunity and it feels great to get the win.”
The title fight featured back-and-forth action with Mexico’s Rodriguez pressuring and baiting the champion to fight him at close distance. At the end of the eighth round, Ancajas finished a flurry of punches with a huge right hand that sent Rodriguez to the canvas for the first time in his career.
“I thought he was going to be stopped because I saw him look at his corner and it didn’t look like he wanted to go on,” continued Ancajas. “But he got up and fought and I respect him for doing that.”
Rodriguez disagreed with the verdict, saying, “I don’t think it was a just decision. I thought maybe a split decision, and I would accept it a little more. But we knew coming in that the judges were against us in this fight.” source: showtime
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Ancajas retains title against Rodriguez
Jerwin Ancajas W12 Jonathan Rodríguez ... In the Showtime telecast opener, IBF 115-pound champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas (31-1-2, 22 KOs) successfully defended his title for the ninth time with a unanimous decision victory over Jonathan Rodríguez (21-2, 16 KOs) in an action-packed twelve-round affair. The nine consecutive title defenses marks the most of any current champion. Fighting out of the Philippines, the 29 year-old controlled the pace of the fight with a consistent dedication to the body, where he landed 131 of his 232 total punches. The ringside judges scored the fight 115-112, 116-111 and 117-110 for Ancajas, while unofficial ringside scorer Steve Farhood tallied the fight at 114-113. Farhood agreed with the three official judges in giving the final three rounds to Rodriguez. Despite dropping the decision, the 25 year-old Rodriguez showed tremendous determination and high-level skill in his first world title fight and U.S. debut.
“I’m very happy to get the win. I waited a long time for the opportunity to get back in the ring and it’s exciting to win in my first fight on this stage fighting on Showtime,” said Ancajas. “This was my toughest fight so far. It was the hardest of any of my nine defenses and it’s exciting that it was on a big card. I trained hard for this opportunity and it feels great to get the win.”
The title fight featured back-and-forth action with Mexico’s Rodriguez pressuring and baiting the champion to fight him at close distance. At the end of the eighth round, Ancajas finished a flurry of punches with a huge right hand that sent Rodriguez to the canvas for the first time in his career.
“I thought he was going to be stopped because I saw him look at his corner and it didn’t look like he wanted to go on,” continued Ancajas. “But he got up and fought and I respect him for doing that.”
Rodriguez disagreed with the verdict, saying, “I don’t think it was a just decision. I thought maybe a split decision, and I would accept it a little more. But we knew coming in that the judges were against us in this fight.” source: showtime
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Stanionis prevails over Dulorme via decision |
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Eimantas Stanionis W12 Thomas Dulorme ... Also on Showtime, a pair of hard-hitting welterweights went toe-to-toe with Eimantas Stanionis (13-0, 9 KOs) prevailing over Thomas Dulorme (25-5-1, 16 KOs) via unanimous decision in a WBA eliminator. This was the most difficult challenge of the 26 year-old’s career as Dulorme took him past the ninth round for the first time. The three ringside judges scored the fight 115-113, 116-112 and 117-111.
“It’s been a dream since I was a kid watching Showtime to be on this stage,” said Stanionis. “I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. I’ve had a long hard journey to get here, but it’s been worth it.”
The two fighters combined for nearly 1,400 punches in their exciting welterweight battle. Stanionis outlanded the 31 year-old Dulorme 232 to 193 and edged his opponent with higher connection percentages across the board. Most notably, Stanionis worked well behind his powerful jab, landing 123 total throughout the twelve rounds. “Dulorme always threw back at me, even if I hurt him,” stated Stanionis, who is one step closer to becoming Lithuania’s first world champion. “I knew that if I was wild, he could have caught me with a good shot. I have more confidence in myself now because I know I can go twelve rounds with a good fighter. I know how the pressure will hit me now. Anything can happen in this sport, so I made sure I was prepared coming into this fight.”
In the tenth round, a nasty cut opened above the left eye of Dulorme which was ruled by referee Harvey Dock to have resulted from a punch. The fight came to a fantastic finish as the Lithuanian went for the knockout in the final round but the veteran Dulorme did not succumb to the pressure. source: showtime
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Stanionis prevails over Dulorme via decision
Eimantas Stanionis W12 Thomas Dulorme ... Also on Showtime, a pair of hard-hitting welterweights went toe-to-toe with Eimantas Stanionis (13-0, 9 KOs) prevailing over Thomas Dulorme (25-5-1, 16 KOs) via unanimous decision in a WBA eliminator. This was the most difficult challenge of the 26 year-old’s career as Dulorme took him past the ninth round for the first time. The three ringside judges scored the fight 115-113, 116-112 and 117-111.
“It’s been a dream since I was a kid watching Showtime to be on this stage,” said Stanionis. “I’m proud of what I’ve achieved. I’ve had a long hard journey to get here, but it’s been worth it.”
The two fighters combined for nearly 1,400 punches in their exciting welterweight battle. Stanionis outlanded the 31 year-old Dulorme 232 to 193 and edged his opponent with higher connection percentages across the board. Most notably, Stanionis worked well behind his powerful jab, landing 123 total throughout the twelve rounds. “Dulorme always threw back at me, even if I hurt him,” stated Stanionis, who is one step closer to becoming Lithuania’s first world champion. “I knew that if I was wild, he could have caught me with a good shot. I have more confidence in myself now because I know I can go twelve rounds with a good fighter. I know how the pressure will hit me now. Anything can happen in this sport, so I made sure I was prepared coming into this fight.”
In the tenth round, a nasty cut opened above the left eye of Dulorme which was ruled by referee Harvey Dock to have resulted from a punch. The fight came to a fantastic finish as the Lithuanian went for the knockout in the final round but the veteran Dulorme did not succumb to the pressure. source: showtime
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Efe Agjagba sleeps Brian Howard |
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Efe Ajagba KO3 Brian Howard... 2016 Nigerian Olympian Efe Ajagba (15-0, 12 KOs) scored a memorable knockout when he sent Brian Howard into orbit with a crunching right hand in the third round of their heavyweight bout in Oklahoma. Howard twisted, fell face first, and the bout was immediately stopped. Ajagba had not fought since last September's decision win over Jonathan Rice. The 26 yeqar-old Ajagba said, “I felt good. I tried to pick the punches, use the jab. This guy is very slick sometimes. I tried to do the job. He was shaky, so when I went back to the corner after the first round, my coach told me to take my time, start with the body, leave the head. I trained for this fight, took my time, started with my boxing foundation, and came back strong. This camp was the best one for me, the best camp ever in my boxing career. It’s my time to shine, so I’m coming for the heavyweights.” source: top rank
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Efe Agjagba sleeps Brian Howard
Efe Ajagba KO3 Brian Howard... 2016 Nigerian Olympian Efe Ajagba (15-0, 12 KOs) scored a memorable knockout when he sent Brian Howard into orbit with a crunching right hand in the third round of their heavyweight bout in Oklahoma. Howard twisted, fell face first, and the bout was immediately stopped. Ajagba had not fought since last September's decision win over Jonathan Rice. The 26 yeqar-old Ajagba said, “I felt good. I tried to pick the punches, use the jab. This guy is very slick sometimes. I tried to do the job. He was shaky, so when I went back to the corner after the first round, my coach told me to take my time, start with the body, leave the head. I trained for this fight, took my time, started with my boxing foundation, and came back strong. This camp was the best one for me, the best camp ever in my boxing career. It’s my time to shine, so I’m coming for the heavyweights.” source: top rank
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Conor Benn overwhelms Samuel Vargas in 82 seconds |
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Conor Benn TKO1 Samuel Vargas... Welterweight Conor Benn stopped the normally durable Samuel Vargas in round one on Saturday. Benn trapped Vargas against the ropes and overwhelmed him with hard and fast punches until the referee intervened. There were no knockdowns. Vargas, now 21-7, made his name by giving Amir Khan hell for twelve rounds in 2018 and lasted into round seven with top contender last year. Benn, now 18-0, called out the inactive but not-yet-retired Khan afterwards. source: dazn
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Conor Benn overwhelms Samuel Vargas in 82 seconds
Conor Benn TKO1 Samuel Vargas... Welterweight Conor Benn stopped the normally durable Samuel Vargas in round one on Saturday. Benn trapped Vargas against the ropes and overwhelmed him with hard and fast punches until the referee intervened. There were no knockdowns. Vargas, now 21-7, made his name by giving Amir Khan hell for twelve rounds in 2018 and lasted into round seven with top contender last year. Benn, now 18-0, called out the inactive but not-yet-retired Khan afterwards. source: dazn
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Undercard results from London |
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Kash Farooq W10 Alexander Espinoza... Glasgow bantamweight Kash Farooq (15-1) completed a stylish points victory over Nicaragua’s Alexander Espinoza (20-3-2) in London's Copper Box Arena on Saturday. Farooq displayed superior ring skills against the tough 28 year-old, receiving a unanimous decision with scores of 97-93, 97-95 and 97-94. “I’m over the moon with the performance,” Farooq told Sky Sports. “I knew it was going to be a tough fight. I came as an underdog, he was the champion. He took some really heavy shots and he kept coming and coming... He just wanted to win. That’s why he came here. I wasn’t going to be denied. It’s a lot of hard work in the gym. Practice, practice and practice. It’s second nature because I’ve been working on this for such a long time. I can see the punches coming.”
John Hedges W4 Stanko Jermelic... [Nobody's 0 had to go as] John Hedges moved to 2-0 with a shutout points win over Croatia’s Stanko Jermelic (0-6) in the opening bout of the night. In his first fight at light heavyweight, the 18 year-old from Takeley put a difficult professional debut behind him with a calm and collected performance. “I’m so happy,” said Hedges. “I needed that after the start I had. I’m with a new team now and it just shows what we’ve been working on in the gym. I’d like to thank my team for helping me to get that win. I feel really good. After that debut I didn’t feel like I deserved to be on TV this time. This is what I needed to move forward. People must look at me and think I’m a bit of a fleshy light heavyweight. That’s just the body type I have. I feel so much better at this weight. I feel strong and I’m only going to get better as the journey continues. That still wasn’t my best, but it was an improvement from last time. I’ll be ready to go again next time with an even better performance. Nobody is going to remember these first few fights. I’m hoping to be like Conor Benn and headlining my own shows in the future.”
Nick Campbell TKO2 Petr Frohlich ... Rugby player turned heavyweight Nick Campbell got his professional career off to a flyer by taking out Petr Frohlich (2-31-1) in two rounds. The 31 year-old from Glasgow unloaded a succession of thudding body shots in the opening round. Frohlich crumpled to the canvas after clubbing shots at the start of the second and referee Robert Williams waved it off following another flurry of punches. “I like to try and stay humble, I expected to get rid of that guy to be honest with you,” said Campbell. “I know he’s not been knocked out many times in his losses and he’s tough. He took some shots there. I’m pleased with how it went. I put him down once and then the referee jumped in and stopped it. In my opinion it was the dream debut. Making my debut on a stage like that after everything that happened in the past year is something that I’d have never of dreamed of. I’m just buzzing to be here and to be talking to you. I’m happy with my performance. I went in there and I had a high work rate. I was just trying to display the things we’d been working on in the gym. I can’t thank my team enough for all of the hard work they’ve put into me. They’re the best team around in my opinion. All of the people that have been singing my praises, that was for you, so thank you. I’m a bit older than most people that make their debut, but I feel young. Every fight that I have is a step further than people thought I could go. I’m just here to prove people wrong and work hard.” source for all results: matchroom
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Undercard results from London
Kash Farooq W10 Alexander Espinoza... Glasgow bantamweight Kash Farooq (15-1) completed a stylish points victory over Nicaragua’s Alexander Espinoza (20-3-2) in London's Copper Box Arena on Saturday. Farooq displayed superior ring skills against the tough 28 year-old, receiving a unanimous decision with scores of 97-93, 97-95 and 97-94. “I’m over the moon with the performance,” Farooq told Sky Sports. “I knew it was going to be a tough fight. I came as an underdog, he was the champion. He took some really heavy shots and he kept coming and coming... He just wanted to win. That’s why he came here. I wasn’t going to be denied. It’s a lot of hard work in the gym. Practice, practice and practice. It’s second nature because I’ve been working on this for such a long time. I can see the punches coming.”
John Hedges W4 Stanko Jermelic... [Nobody's 0 had to go as] John Hedges moved to 2-0 with a shutout points win over Croatia’s Stanko Jermelic (0-6) in the opening bout of the night. In his first fight at light heavyweight, the 18 year-old from Takeley put a difficult professional debut behind him with a calm and collected performance. “I’m so happy,” said Hedges. “I needed that after the start I had. I’m with a new team now and it just shows what we’ve been working on in the gym. I’d like to thank my team for helping me to get that win. I feel really good. After that debut I didn’t feel like I deserved to be on TV this time. This is what I needed to move forward. People must look at me and think I’m a bit of a fleshy light heavyweight. That’s just the body type I have. I feel so much better at this weight. I feel strong and I’m only going to get better as the journey continues. That still wasn’t my best, but it was an improvement from last time. I’ll be ready to go again next time with an even better performance. Nobody is going to remember these first few fights. I’m hoping to be like Conor Benn and headlining my own shows in the future.”
Nick Campbell TKO2 Petr Frohlich ... Rugby player turned heavyweight Nick Campbell got his professional career off to a flyer by taking out Petr Frohlich (2-31-1) in two rounds. The 31 year-old from Glasgow unloaded a succession of thudding body shots in the opening round. Frohlich crumpled to the canvas after clubbing shots at the start of the second and referee Robert Williams waved it off following another flurry of punches. “I like to try and stay humble, I expected to get rid of that guy to be honest with you,” said Campbell. “I know he’s not been knocked out many times in his losses and he’s tough. He took some shots there. I’m pleased with how it went. I put him down once and then the referee jumped in and stopped it. In my opinion it was the dream debut. Making my debut on a stage like that after everything that happened in the past year is something that I’d have never of dreamed of. I’m just buzzing to be here and to be talking to you. I’m happy with my performance. I went in there and I had a high work rate. I was just trying to display the things we’d been working on in the gym. I can’t thank my team enough for all of the hard work they’ve put into me. They’re the best team around in my opinion. All of the people that have been singing my praises, that was for you, so thank you. I’m a bit older than most people that make their debut, but I feel young. Every fight that I have is a step further than people thought I could go. I’m just here to prove people wrong and work hard.” source for all results: matchroom
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New champion alert: Shannon Courtenay takes WBA bantamweight title |
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Shannon Courtenay W10 Ebanie Bridges ... After ten hard fought rounds in London's Copper Box Arena, Shannon Courtenay, who hurt Ebanie Bridges on several occassions, gained the vacant WBA bantamweight championship with a points win in a grueling encounter that saw both fighters give everything they had. Bridges finished up with a closed and purple eye. Scores were 97-94 and 98-92 (twice). Afterwards, Briidges conceded defeat, tweeting: "What can I say, I didn’t get the W, but I fought my heart out, I couldn't see for the last three rounds, but I have no quit in me! Congrats to Shanny. It takes two to tango and I really hope we did what I said we would and showed that pretty girls fight hard too! And I hope it was entertaining for everyone." source: dazn / social media
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New champion alert: Shannon Courtenay takes WBA bantamweight title
Shannon Courtenay W10 Ebanie Bridges ... After ten hard fought rounds in London's Copper Box Arena, Shannon Courtenay, who hurt Ebanie Bridges on several occassions, gained the vacant WBA bantamweight championship with a points win in a grueling encounter that saw both fighters give everything they had. Bridges finished up with a closed and purple eye. Scores were 97-94 and 98-92 (twice). Afterwards, Briidges conceded defeat, tweeting: "What can I say, I didn’t get the W, but I fought my heart out, I couldn't see for the last three rounds, but I have no quit in me! Congrats to Shanny. It takes two to tango and I really hope we did what I said we would and showed that pretty girls fight hard too! And I hope it was entertaining for everyone." source: dazn / social media
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Undercard results from Tulsa, OK |
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Jared Anderson KO2 Jeremiah Karpency,,, In undercard bouts from Tulsa, Oklahoma, heavyweight Jared Anderson (9-0, 9 KOs) knocked out Jeremiah Karpency (16-3-1, 6 KOs) in round two. Anderson, the 21 year-old from Toledo, Ohio, added another speedy knockout to his highlight reel, this time using a body attack to end things early. He knocked down Karpency with a body blow at the end of the first round, then ended things with another right hand to the body early in the second round. Anderson said, “I knew he was going to find a spot to fall. I respect him for getting in there and showing up today. It’s a man’s sport. I’m just grateful to be here, thankful for the opportunity.
“I {saw} the shot. His hands kept going up. I kept throwing my jab, looking for openings, feinting, moving around the ring, and it just came. It was a good shot, and he didn’t want to get back up. Everybody who says they’re the biggest and the baddest, come see ‘Big ‘Baby’ then. I want to thank Toledo, my city. A lot of them came out to Oklahoma, and I wanted to put on a show for them. I can’t wait for what is next.
Albert Bell W8 Manuel Rey Rojas... Junior lightweight Albert Bell (18-0, 5 KOs) defeated Manuel Rey Rojas (20-5, 6 KOs) over eight rounds, with all three scorecards reading 78-74. Toledo's Bell used his length and reach to keep the shorter Rojas at bay and ultimately cruised to a one-sided decision. Bell outlanded Rojas 114-94 according to Compubox.
Robson Conceicao TKO7 Jesus Antonio Ahumada... Lightweight Robson Conceicao (16-0, 8 KOs) stopped Jesus Antonio Ahumada (17-4 11 KOs) in round seven. Conceicao, the 2016 Olympic gold medalist, from Bahia, Brazil, put forth a workmanlike performance and beat down Mexican veteran Ahumada. After a knockdown in the seventh, referee Gary Ritter saw enough and saved Ahumada from further punishment.
Trey Lippe Morrison TKO3 Jason Bergman... Heavyweight Trey Lippe Morrison (17-0, 17 KOs) picked up a fluke stoppage win over Jason Bergman (27-20-2). Lippe Morrison, son of the late heavyweight Tommy Morrison, returned from a nearly two-year layoff and stopped veteran Bergman in a crowd-pleasing slugfest. Bergman appeared to knock down Morrison in the first, but the referee missed the knockdown call. In the third, Bergman rolled his ankle and could not continue, and Morrison was awarded the TKO victory.
Duke Ragan W6 Charles Clark ... Featherweight Duke Ragan (4-0, 1 KO) shut out Charles Clark (3-7,-1 1 KO) by three scores of 60-54. In his first fight away from the confines of the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble, Cincinnati's Ragan outboxed Clark and won every round on all three judges' scorecards. Through four pro bouts, Ragan has yet to lose a round.
Jeremiah Milton TKO1 Jayvone Dafney ... Heavyweight Jeremiah Milton (3-0, 3 KOs) stopped Jayvone Dafney (2-3, 2 KOs) in round one. Tulsa native Milton had a successful homecoming, icing Jayvone Dafney in the opening round with a right hand as Daffney was backed up against the ropes. A dazed Dafney could not respond, and the referee called the bout off.
Sonny Conto KO1 Waldo Cortes... Heavyweight Sonny Conto (7-0, 6 KOs) flattened Waldo Cortes (6-4, 3 KO) in Conto's first fight in fifteen months. The South Philadelphia native Conto put Cortes down for the ten-count with a sweeping right hand. Conto has now won three straight by first-round stoppage.
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Undercard results from Tulsa, OK
Jared Anderson KO2 Jeremiah Karpency,,, In undercard bouts from Tulsa, Oklahoma, heavyweight Jared Anderson (9-0, 9 KOs) knocked out Jeremiah Karpency (16-3-1, 6 KOs) in round two. Anderson, the 21 year-old from Toledo, Ohio, added another speedy knockout to his highlight reel, this time using a body attack to end things early. He knocked down Karpency with a body blow at the end of the first round, then ended things with another right hand to the body early in the second round. Anderson said, “I knew he was going to find a spot to fall. I respect him for getting in there and showing up today. It’s a man’s sport. I’m just grateful to be here, thankful for the opportunity.
“I {saw} the shot. His hands kept going up. I kept throwing my jab, looking for openings, feinting, moving around the ring, and it just came. It was a good shot, and he didn’t want to get back up. Everybody who says they’re the biggest and the baddest, come see ‘Big ‘Baby’ then. I want to thank Toledo, my city. A lot of them came out to Oklahoma, and I wanted to put on a show for them. I can’t wait for what is next.
Albert Bell W8 Manuel Rey Rojas... Junior lightweight Albert Bell (18-0, 5 KOs) defeated Manuel Rey Rojas (20-5, 6 KOs) over eight rounds, with all three scorecards reading 78-74. Toledo's Bell used his length and reach to keep the shorter Rojas at bay and ultimately cruised to a one-sided decision. Bell outlanded Rojas 114-94 according to Compubox.
Robson Conceicao TKO7 Jesus Antonio Ahumada... Lightweight Robson Conceicao (16-0, 8 KOs) stopped Jesus Antonio Ahumada (17-4 11 KOs) in round seven. Conceicao, the 2016 Olympic gold medalist, from Bahia, Brazil, put forth a workmanlike performance and beat down Mexican veteran Ahumada. After a knockdown in the seventh, referee Gary Ritter saw enough and saved Ahumada from further punishment.
Trey Lippe Morrison TKO3 Jason Bergman... Heavyweight Trey Lippe Morrison (17-0, 17 KOs) picked up a fluke stoppage win over Jason Bergman (27-20-2). Lippe Morrison, son of the late heavyweight Tommy Morrison, returned from a nearly two-year layoff and stopped veteran Bergman in a crowd-pleasing slugfest. Bergman appeared to knock down Morrison in the first, but the referee missed the knockdown call. In the third, Bergman rolled his ankle and could not continue, and Morrison was awarded the TKO victory.
Duke Ragan W6 Charles Clark ... Featherweight Duke Ragan (4-0, 1 KO) shut out Charles Clark (3-7,-1 1 KO) by three scores of 60-54. In his first fight away from the confines of the MGM Grand Las Vegas Bubble, Cincinnati's Ragan outboxed Clark and won every round on all three judges' scorecards. Through four pro bouts, Ragan has yet to lose a round.
Jeremiah Milton TKO1 Jayvone Dafney ... Heavyweight Jeremiah Milton (3-0, 3 KOs) stopped Jayvone Dafney (2-3, 2 KOs) in round one. Tulsa native Milton had a successful homecoming, icing Jayvone Dafney in the opening round with a right hand as Daffney was backed up against the ropes. A dazed Dafney could not respond, and the referee called the bout off.
Sonny Conto KO1 Waldo Cortes... Heavyweight Sonny Conto (7-0, 6 KOs) flattened Waldo Cortes (6-4, 3 KO) in Conto's first fight in fifteen months. The South Philadelphia native Conto put Cortes down for the ten-count with a sweeping right hand. Conto has now won three straight by first-round stoppage.
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Marshall stops Lindberg; trash talks Shields |
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Savannah Marshall TKO3 Maria Lindberg ... Savannah Marshall called out Claressa Shields after stopping Maria Lindberg in round three to retain her WBO middleweight title. The two women were competing on the undercard of Conor Benn’s clash with Samuel Vargas in London on Saturday. Marshall (10-0, 8 KOs) was in total control throughout the fight, dropping Lindberg (19-7-2, 10 KOs) in round two, before following that up with another knockdown in the following round that the Swede was unable to recover from, meaning that Marshall got the win after 1:11 of round three.
Marshall becomes the first fighter to stop Lindberg, and has now made her intentions clear that she wants a battle with Shields next. She said: “Utmost respect to Maria. I’m really grateful that she stepped in. On Sunday it looked like I wasn’t even fighting, so credit to her. Maria had never been stopped, and I didn’t think it would go like that but I’m happy with how I performed. It’s all about flow. Everything Peter Fury teaches me is all about hitting correctly and getting the most power. I’m over the moon with the progress I’m making with Peter. I punch too hard for Claressa Shields. She doesn’t want to know. She would much rather roll about it in the Octagon and call out Katie Taylor who is four weight classes lower. I won’t wait forever, I want to be out in the summer. The IBF title is vacant at my weight, and if not that then I will go back up to super middleweight and win a world title there. If Shields then gets some guts then we can have a big showdown at the end of the year.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn added: “We’re making good progress on a Shields fight. Her teams know how dangerous the fight is and they want a lot of money, but I’m prepared to pay them. There is no way Shields goes ten rounds with Savannah Marshall. Savannah is the only girl to beat Shields in her entire life. She beat her in the amateurs and she will do in the professionals. Shields is one of the top three female pound-for-pound fighters in the world, but she is wide open and can’t stand up to Savannah’s power. Savannah is the hardest pound-for-pound puncher in women’s boxing. Marshall vs. Shields is superfight that can headline in the USA or England, and I will do everything to try and make it.” source: mtk
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Marshall stops Lindberg; trash talks Shields
Savannah Marshall TKO3 Maria Lindberg ... Savannah Marshall called out Claressa Shields after stopping Maria Lindberg in round three to retain her WBO middleweight title. The two women were competing on the undercard of Conor Benn’s clash with Samuel Vargas in London on Saturday. Marshall (10-0, 8 KOs) was in total control throughout the fight, dropping Lindberg (19-7-2, 10 KOs) in round two, before following that up with another knockdown in the following round that the Swede was unable to recover from, meaning that Marshall got the win after 1:11 of round three.
Marshall becomes the first fighter to stop Lindberg, and has now made her intentions clear that she wants a battle with Shields next. She said: “Utmost respect to Maria. I’m really grateful that she stepped in. On Sunday it looked like I wasn’t even fighting, so credit to her. Maria had never been stopped, and I didn’t think it would go like that but I’m happy with how I performed. It’s all about flow. Everything Peter Fury teaches me is all about hitting correctly and getting the most power. I’m over the moon with the progress I’m making with Peter. I punch too hard for Claressa Shields. She doesn’t want to know. She would much rather roll about it in the Octagon and call out Katie Taylor who is four weight classes lower. I won’t wait forever, I want to be out in the summer. The IBF title is vacant at my weight, and if not that then I will go back up to super middleweight and win a world title there. If Shields then gets some guts then we can have a big showdown at the end of the year.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn added: “We’re making good progress on a Shields fight. Her teams know how dangerous the fight is and they want a lot of money, but I’m prepared to pay them. There is no way Shields goes ten rounds with Savannah Marshall. Savannah is the only girl to beat Shields in her entire life. She beat her in the amateurs and she will do in the professionals. Shields is one of the top three female pound-for-pound fighters in the world, but she is wide open and can’t stand up to Savannah’s power. Savannah is the hardest pound-for-pound puncher in women’s boxing. Marshall vs. Shields is superfight that can headline in the USA or England, and I will do everything to try and make it.” source: mtk
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Wins for Justis Huni, Hannock Phiri |
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Justis Huni TKO1 Jack Maris... Australian heavyweighthopeful Justis Huni stopped 6'7" Jack Maris in round one, although Maris complained vehemently that the stoppage was premature. Huni clearly had the skill and speed advantage, but the referee called it without any knockdown. Huni is 3-0 and is touted for big things. Both men entered with undefeated records, and Maris leaves at 2-1. source: news.com.au
Hannock Phiri TKO9 Yona Segu... Hannock Phiri (11-2) from Malawi stopped Tanzanian Yona Segu (19-11-2) in a lightweight title on Friday night, April 9th, at Ubungo Plaza in Dar Es Salaam. The 23 year-old “Hardknocker” Phiri had lost a big fight in Tanzania last September by split decision, a fight he felt he deserved to win, so he didn't want to leave things in the hands of the judges this time. As the fight entered the last third it was still very close on the cards, Phiri leading by one point on two and the third having it all even. But the younger and fresher visitor took over the momentum of the fight and eventually floored Segu conclusively, forcing the stoppage from referee Pendo Njau at 0:48 of round nine. Phiri vs. Segu headlined a card billed as “Fist of the Lions II”, promoted by Mapoa Entertainment and broadcast live by Azam TV. source: wbf
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The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Wins for Justis Huni, Hannock Phiri
Justis Huni TKO1 Jack Maris... Australian heavyweighthopeful Justis Huni stopped 6'7" Jack Maris in round one, although Maris complained vehemently that the stoppage was premature. Huni clearly had the skill and speed advantage, but the referee called it without any knockdown. Huni is 3-0 and is touted for big things. Both men entered with undefeated records, and Maris leaves at 2-1. source: news.com.au
Hannock Phiri TKO9 Yona Segu... Hannock Phiri (11-2) from Malawi stopped Tanzanian Yona Segu (19-11-2) in a lightweight title on Friday night, April 9th, at Ubungo Plaza in Dar Es Salaam. The 23 year-old “Hardknocker” Phiri had lost a big fight in Tanzania last September by split decision, a fight he felt he deserved to win, so he didn't want to leave things in the hands of the judges this time. As the fight entered the last third it was still very close on the cards, Phiri leading by one point on two and the third having it all even. But the younger and fresher visitor took over the momentum of the fight and eventually floored Segu conclusively, forcing the stoppage from referee Pendo Njau at 0:48 of round nine. Phiri vs. Segu headlined a card billed as “Fist of the Lions II”, promoted by Mapoa Entertainment and broadcast live by Azam TV. source: wbf
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Matchroom signs WBO 108-pound champion Elwin Soto |
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Eddie Hearn and Matchroom are delighted to announce the signing of WBO light flyweight champion Elwin Soto. From Baja California, Mexico, Soto (18-1 12 KOs) ripped the WBO strap from Angel Acosta in dramatic fashion with a final round KO win in June 2019 and has since defended the title twice with distance triumphs over Edward Heno in October 2019 and Carlos Butrago last October. The 24 year-old will be back in action soon with his first fight under Hearn to be announced shortly, and the young Mexican talent cannot wait to be back in the ring and wants to chase his fellow champions.
“I want to thank Eddie Hearn from Matchroom and Zanfer for this great opportunity,” said Soto. “I’m very excited to announce my next defense and then going on to unify the division.”
“I am delighted to welcome another Mexican World champion to the roster in Elwin Soto,” said Hearn. “His World title win over Acosta was a dramatic fairytale moment, and this young man is really growing into being a World champion. We know that the smaller weight classes always guarantee exciting fights, and I can’t wait to see Elwin continue his journey to the biggest fights at Light-Flyweight and above, starting very soon.”
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Matchroom signs WBO 108-pound champion Elwin Soto
Eddie Hearn and Matchroom are delighted to announce the signing of WBO light flyweight champion Elwin Soto. From Baja California, Mexico, Soto (18-1 12 KOs) ripped the WBO strap from Angel Acosta in dramatic fashion with a final round KO win in June 2019 and has since defended the title twice with distance triumphs over Edward Heno in October 2019 and Carlos Butrago last October. The 24 year-old will be back in action soon with his first fight under Hearn to be announced shortly, and the young Mexican talent cannot wait to be back in the ring and wants to chase his fellow champions.
“I want to thank Eddie Hearn from Matchroom and Zanfer for this great opportunity,” said Soto. “I’m very excited to announce my next defense and then going on to unify the division.”
“I am delighted to welcome another Mexican World champion to the roster in Elwin Soto,” said Hearn. “His World title win over Acosta was a dramatic fairytale moment, and this young man is really growing into being a World champion. We know that the smaller weight classes always guarantee exciting fights, and I can’t wait to see Elwin continue his journey to the biggest fights at Light-Flyweight and above, starting very soon.”
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Weigh-in report from Tulsa, Oklahoma |
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Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's ESPN show :
Vacant WBO hight heavyweight title — 12 Rounds
Joe Smith Jr. 174.8. pounds vs. Maxim Vlasov 175
Judges: David Sutherland, Pat Russell, Gerald Ritter; Referee: Gary Ritter
Heavyweight— 10 rounds
Efe Ajagba 239.6 lbs vs. Brian Howard 218 lbs
Heavyweight— 6-8 Round swing bout
Jared Anderson 251.8 vs. Jeremiah Karpency 226.6;
Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds
Albert Bell 132.2 vs. Manuel Rey Rojas 132;
Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds
Robson Conceição 128.4 vs. Jesus Antonio Ahumada 129;
Heavyweight — 8 Rounds
Trey Lippe Morrison 225.8 lbs vs. Jason Bergman 256
Featherweight — 6 Rounds
Duke Ragan 125.8 lbs vs. Charles Clark 126.6
Heavyweight — 4 Rounds
Jeremiah Milton 231.8 lbs vs. Jayvone Dafney 222.6
Heavyweight — 4 Rounds
Sonny Conto 230.4 lbs vs. Waldo Cortes 262
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Weigh-in report from Tulsa, Oklahoma
Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's ESPN show :
Vacant WBO hight heavyweight title — 12 Rounds
Joe Smith Jr. 174.8. pounds vs. Maxim Vlasov 175
Judges: David Sutherland, Pat Russell, Gerald Ritter; Referee: Gary Ritter
Heavyweight— 10 rounds
Efe Ajagba 239.6 lbs vs. Brian Howard 218 lbs
Heavyweight— 6-8 Round swing bout
Jared Anderson 251.8 vs. Jeremiah Karpency 226.6;
Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds
Albert Bell 132.2 vs. Manuel Rey Rojas 132;
Junior Lightweight — 8 Rounds
Robson Conceição 128.4 vs. Jesus Antonio Ahumada 129;
Heavyweight — 8 Rounds
Trey Lippe Morrison 225.8 lbs vs. Jason Bergman 256
Featherweight — 6 Rounds
Duke Ragan 125.8 lbs vs. Charles Clark 126.6
Heavyweight — 4 Rounds
Jeremiah Milton 231.8 lbs vs. Jayvone Dafney 222.6
Heavyweight — 4 Rounds
Sonny Conto 230.4 lbs vs. Waldo Cortes 262
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Spotlight on Ancajas-Rodriguez |
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Tonight on Showtime, live from the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut, IBF super flyweight champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas and Mexico’s Jonathan Rodriguez kick off a tripleheader with a title fight at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Ancajas, from the Philippines, is 32-1-2 but has been inactive since 2019. Rodriguez, from Mexico, is 22-1 and is coming off a win four months ago. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
JERWIN ANCAJAS
“This fight is very important to me. I want to defend my title again badly. Every fight is very important and that’s how I prepare. That’s why I still have my title and why I must keep it.
“It hasn’t been frustrating being out of the ring for 16 months because we are always training and always in the gym. We always believed that a big fight was going to come. I stayed focused and stayed ready. From March until October in the pandemic, I was able to train and stay focused. In October, I arrived to the U.S. and I’ve never stopped training. I feel very prepared to meet the challenge on Saturday night.
“Every fight I always want to perform my best and put on a good fight because I want people to know my name. Everybody always talks about Estrada, Chocolatito and Rungvisai so that’s why I’m excited to have this opportunity to showcase my skills and challenge those guys.
“I promise that on Saturday night I’m going to put on a great fight. I’m ready for what Jonathan Rodriguez will bring. It’s Mexico vs. Philippines, which is a great rivalry with great history. I’m prepared. I watched Jonathan and I know that he’s hungry and coming for the title. It will be a really good action fight.
“I want people to remember me for being a champion and giving my all every time I get in the ring. After this fight, I want to face some of the top guys in my division. I always come to the fight and give the fans my best and that’s how I want people to remember me.
“I’m very comfortable right now at 115 pounds. I’m looking to win on Saturday night and I want to fight whoever is left after the four-man tournament between Rungvisai, Chocolatito, Estrada and Cuadras. I’m always calling the name of any titleholder in my division, so I would fight Ioka too. I want a signature fight because I’m tired of people criticizing me for not fighting anybody. After this, that’s what I’m targeting and then once I get that fight I plan to move to 118 pounds sometime next year.
“If I had to choose one name, I would want to fight Chocolatito because I always watched him on TV and he’s my idol. Now, if I have the opportunity to fight Chocolatito I really want that fight.
“It doesn’t bother me that everybody is always talking about Chocolatito and Estrada and those guys. It’s a compliment. I know that one day it will come and I will get the opportunity to fight those guys. A lot of people will be watching on Saturday night so I want to make a great statement so that my name can still be in the mix with all of those guys.”
JONATHAN RODRIGUEZ
“I had a great training camp over the last two months. I’ve been looking forward to this fight for the last two years and I can’t wait to get into the ring Saturday night.
“Ancajas is a great champion, but he’s never faced someone like me. I’m going to put the pressure on him from the very beginning Saturday night and show him that he has a great Mexican fighter standing in his way.
“I’m very excited for this fight. My daughter was just born five days ago and that gives me extra motivation to put on a great show and make my name known in the United States.
“We have been preparing the whole time since my last fight and I really couldn’t feel any better heading into Saturday. I’ve been studying Ancajas for two years now, so I feel like I know everything about him.
“The Mexico vs. Philippines rivalry is a great one and I definitely remember watching the Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez fights. I’m excited to carry the Mexican flag after I win on Saturday.
“This is a stacked division with a lot of great fighters. Ancajas is a world champion, but I don’t compare him to the other champions in the division. I’m just focused on what I have to do Saturday.”
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Spotlight on Ancajas-Rodriguez
Tonight on Showtime, live from the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut, IBF super flyweight champion Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas and Mexico’s Jonathan Rodriguez kick off a tripleheader with a title fight at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Ancajas, from the Philippines, is 32-1-2 but has been inactive since 2019. Rodriguez, from Mexico, is 22-1 and is coming off a win four months ago. Here is what the fighters had to say Thursday:
JERWIN ANCAJAS
“This fight is very important to me. I want to defend my title again badly. Every fight is very important and that’s how I prepare. That’s why I still have my title and why I must keep it.
“It hasn’t been frustrating being out of the ring for 16 months because we are always training and always in the gym. We always believed that a big fight was going to come. I stayed focused and stayed ready. From March until October in the pandemic, I was able to train and stay focused. In October, I arrived to the U.S. and I’ve never stopped training. I feel very prepared to meet the challenge on Saturday night.
“Every fight I always want to perform my best and put on a good fight because I want people to know my name. Everybody always talks about Estrada, Chocolatito and Rungvisai so that’s why I’m excited to have this opportunity to showcase my skills and challenge those guys.
“I promise that on Saturday night I’m going to put on a great fight. I’m ready for what Jonathan Rodriguez will bring. It’s Mexico vs. Philippines, which is a great rivalry with great history. I’m prepared. I watched Jonathan and I know that he’s hungry and coming for the title. It will be a really good action fight.
“I want people to remember me for being a champion and giving my all every time I get in the ring. After this fight, I want to face some of the top guys in my division. I always come to the fight and give the fans my best and that’s how I want people to remember me.
“I’m very comfortable right now at 115 pounds. I’m looking to win on Saturday night and I want to fight whoever is left after the four-man tournament between Rungvisai, Chocolatito, Estrada and Cuadras. I’m always calling the name of any titleholder in my division, so I would fight Ioka too. I want a signature fight because I’m tired of people criticizing me for not fighting anybody. After this, that’s what I’m targeting and then once I get that fight I plan to move to 118 pounds sometime next year.
“If I had to choose one name, I would want to fight Chocolatito because I always watched him on TV and he’s my idol. Now, if I have the opportunity to fight Chocolatito I really want that fight.
“It doesn’t bother me that everybody is always talking about Chocolatito and Estrada and those guys. It’s a compliment. I know that one day it will come and I will get the opportunity to fight those guys. A lot of people will be watching on Saturday night so I want to make a great statement so that my name can still be in the mix with all of those guys.”
JONATHAN RODRIGUEZ
“I had a great training camp over the last two months. I’ve been looking forward to this fight for the last two years and I can’t wait to get into the ring Saturday night.
“Ancajas is a great champion, but he’s never faced someone like me. I’m going to put the pressure on him from the very beginning Saturday night and show him that he has a great Mexican fighter standing in his way.
“I’m very excited for this fight. My daughter was just born five days ago and that gives me extra motivation to put on a great show and make my name known in the United States.
“We have been preparing the whole time since my last fight and I really couldn’t feel any better heading into Saturday. I’ve been studying Ancajas for two years now, so I feel like I know everything about him.
“The Mexico vs. Philippines rivalry is a great one and I definitely remember watching the Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez fights. I’m excited to carry the Mexican flag after I win on Saturday.
“This is a stacked division with a lot of great fighters. Ancajas is a world champion, but I don’t compare him to the other champions in the division. I’m just focused on what I have to do Saturday.”
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Wilfredo Vázquez, Jr. books May comeback bout |
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Former WBO 122-pound title holder Wilfredo Vázquez, Jr. returns to the ring for the first time since 2018, and the Puerto Rican will be doing it in hostile territory. The Puerto Rican Vazquez (25-7-1) will face Víctor “Pitufo” Proa, on Saturday, May 15th at the Hotel Villa Real in Ciudad Acuña in Coahuila. Vazquez's last fight was in June 2018 in Gómez Palacio, Durango, when he defeated another former champion, Cristian “Diamante” Mijares by knockout. Proa is 29-8-2 but has lost seven of his last eight bouts.
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Wilfredo Vázquez, Jr. books May comeback bout
Former WBO 122-pound title holder Wilfredo Vázquez, Jr. returns to the ring for the first time since 2018, and the Puerto Rican will be doing it in hostile territory. The Puerto Rican Vazquez (25-7-1) will face Víctor “Pitufo” Proa, on Saturday, May 15th at the Hotel Villa Real in Ciudad Acuña in Coahuila. Vazquez's last fight was in June 2018 in Gómez Palacio, Durango, when he defeated another former champion, Cristian “Diamante” Mijares by knockout. Proa is 29-8-2 but has lost seven of his last eight bouts.
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Lewie Edmondson bout replaces John Joe Nevin |
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Lewie Edmondson will take on former Commonwealth super-middleweight champion Luke Blackledge on next week’s MTK Fight Night. The planned fight between John Joe Nevin and Shaun Cooper has unfortunately been postponed after Nevin tested positive for the coronavirus. The event takes place at the University of Bolton Stadium on Saturday April 17th and will be broadcast live on IFL TV. Edmondson (4-0, 1 KO) is making his return to the ring following a third-round stoppage win over John Telford in December. He now faces the veteran Blackledge (26-9-2, 9 KOs) [loser of three straight] who won the Commonwealth title back in 2015 and made two successful defenses. Blackledge has also shared the ring with the likes of Callum Smith and Rocky Fielding during his career.
MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton said: “This is a brilliant test for Lewie Edmondson in just his fifth professional fight. Luke Blackledge has mixed it with some of the best in the division, so it’s a great opportunity to see where Lewie stacks up against them.”
Elsewhere on the card, Danny Dignum has a middleweight encounter against Andrey Sirotkin and Dan Azeez puts his English light-heavyweight belt on the line against Ricky Summers.
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Lewie Edmondson bout replaces John Joe Nevin
Lewie Edmondson will take on former Commonwealth super-middleweight champion Luke Blackledge on next week’s MTK Fight Night. The planned fight between John Joe Nevin and Shaun Cooper has unfortunately been postponed after Nevin tested positive for the coronavirus. The event takes place at the University of Bolton Stadium on Saturday April 17th and will be broadcast live on IFL TV. Edmondson (4-0, 1 KO) is making his return to the ring following a third-round stoppage win over John Telford in December. He now faces the veteran Blackledge (26-9-2, 9 KOs) [loser of three straight] who won the Commonwealth title back in 2015 and made two successful defenses. Blackledge has also shared the ring with the likes of Callum Smith and Rocky Fielding during his career.
MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton said: “This is a brilliant test for Lewie Edmondson in just his fifth professional fight. Luke Blackledge has mixed it with some of the best in the division, so it’s a great opportunity to see where Lewie stacks up against them.”
Elsewhere on the card, Danny Dignum has a middleweight encounter against Andrey Sirotkin and Dan Azeez puts his English light-heavyweight belt on the line against Ricky Summers.
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Weigh-in report from Connecticut |
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Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's Showtime broadcast from the Mohegan Sun Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut:
Welterweights - 12 rounds
Jaron “Boots” Ennis, 146.4 pounds -vs.- Sergey Lipinets, 146.8;
WBA welterweight eliminator - 12 rounds
Eimantas Stanionis, 147 -vs.- Thomas Dulorme, 146.4;
IBF super flyweight championship - 12 rounds
Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas, 114.8 -vs.- Jonathan Rodriguez, 115;
Featherweights 8-10 round swing bout
Mark Magsayo, 126.8 -vs.- Pablo Cruz, 127; and
Junior middleweights, 4 rounds
Evan Holyfield, 154.2 -vs.- Nicholas Compton, 155.
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Weigh-in report from Connecticut
Here are the boxers' weights for Saturday's Showtime broadcast from the Mohegan Sun Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut:
Welterweights - 12 rounds
Jaron “Boots” Ennis, 146.4 pounds -vs.- Sergey Lipinets, 146.8;
WBA welterweight eliminator - 12 rounds
Eimantas Stanionis, 147 -vs.- Thomas Dulorme, 146.4;
IBF super flyweight championship - 12 rounds
Jerwin “Pretty Boy” Ancajas, 114.8 -vs.- Jonathan Rodriguez, 115;
Featherweights 8-10 round swing bout
Mark Magsayo, 126.8 -vs.- Pablo Cruz, 127; and
Junior middleweights, 4 rounds
Evan Holyfield, 154.2 -vs.- Nicholas Compton, 155.
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Weigh-in report from London |
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Conor Benn (17-0) and Samuel Vargas (31-6-2) jumped on the scale today in Stratford, London, ahead of their twelve-round welterweight main event on Sky Sports and DAZN on Saturday. Benn weighed in at 146.8 pounds and Vargas came in a shade lighter at 146.4... For the same show, Shannon Courtenay and Ebanie Bridges both cleared the bantamweight limit of 118 pounds for tomorrow's WBA championship fight. Courtenay, fighting in her home country, was reported as "117.14" pounds, probably meaning 117 pounds, 14 ounces. The Australian Bridges, seven years older than Courtenay at 34, came in at 117 pounds even. The WBA bantamweight title has not been contested since 2017. Courtenay is 5-1, while Bridges is 6-0 against weaker competition.
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Weigh-in report from London
Conor Benn (17-0) and Samuel Vargas (31-6-2) jumped on the scale today in Stratford, London, ahead of their twelve-round welterweight main event on Sky Sports and DAZN on Saturday. Benn weighed in at 146.8 pounds and Vargas came in a shade lighter at 146.4... For the same show, Shannon Courtenay and Ebanie Bridges both cleared the bantamweight limit of 118 pounds for tomorrow's WBA championship fight. Courtenay, fighting in her home country, was reported as "117.14" pounds, probably meaning 117 pounds, 14 ounces. The Australian Bridges, seven years older than Courtenay at 34, came in at 117 pounds even. The WBA bantamweight title has not been contested since 2017. Courtenay is 5-1, while Bridges is 6-0 against weaker competition.
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Stanionis-Dulorme final presser quotes |
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Tomorrow (Saturday, April 10th) at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., the co-feature on Showtime Championship Boxing will be a WBA welterweight eliminator between unbeaten Eimantas Stanionis (pictured) and hard-hitting Thomas Dulorme. Here is what the boxers had to say at the final press conference:
EIMANTAS STANIONIS
“We are entertainers, so I definitely want the knockout. That’s part of my job. I have to do my best to give the fans something to remember. I always put 100% of my heart into a fight and that makes me happy no matter what the result is.
“Both [Jaron] Ennis [who fights Sergey Lipinets in Showtime's main event] and I have step up fights on Saturday like everyone is saying. We both have our toughest challenges yet and I think we’re both on the same track now as the next champions in the division.
“Everything was good in training. I’ve been training nonstop. I haven’t taken a break since my last fight, so I’m always in shape. You never know when the call is going to come for your next fight.
“There is some pressure to be the first world champion from Lithuania. Everybody is going wild for this fight because they’re going to show it over there. It’s amazing and it’s very exciting for me.
“I think on Saturday I’m going to answer a lot of questions about me. I believe that I can beat any of the welterweight champions. Everyone will see my level and what I’m capable of. I know I have to step up every fight and prove it again and again.
“For me, it doesn’t matter who I fight next. I’ll never say no to a fight. It can be two against one and I’ll be up for it. I’m just that kind of person. I want to give it my best no matter what.
“I’m very thankful to have this opportunity on a stage like this. It’s a new era coming up of young hungry fighters in the welterweight division. I think my will to win and get knockouts will separate me. I also think my style is fan-friendly and that will help me stand out.
“I would accept a fight against a champion next, but I know that experience is important. I want experience against good opposition like Dulorme. I know that will get me ready and show my team that I’ll be ready for the champions when that time comes.”
THOMAS DULORME
“Fights don’t always go the way we expect them to, so I’m prepared for anything that happens in the ring. I have enough experience that I’m prepared for any way that Stanionis plans to fight.
“I learned a lot against Jamal James. He was a tall and awkward fighter. I think it was a good experience for me. Stanionis is a very different fighter, so we’re focused on what we need to do against a fighter with his skills.
“This is a good fight for the fans and for me and my career. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m still a serious contender in the welterweight division.
“Training camp was great. I worked in the gym for the last 10 weeks every day. Right now I’m feeling perfect and ready for Saturday night.
“I have to win this fight. I know that with a win I’m going to get the bigger opportunities that I’m looking for. My experience is going to be a big factor. I’m planning to test him and see how he holds up in the later rounds.
“Stanionis is a fighter who comes forward and throws punches. He stands in the middle, unlike Jamal James who was more evasive. That style is going to make it easier for me to put on the kind of fight that I want.”
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Stanionis-Dulorme final presser quotes
Tomorrow (Saturday, April 10th) at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Conn., the co-feature on Showtime Championship Boxing will be a WBA welterweight eliminator between unbeaten Eimantas Stanionis (pictured) and hard-hitting Thomas Dulorme. Here is what the boxers had to say at the final press conference:
EIMANTAS STANIONIS
“We are entertainers, so I definitely want the knockout. That’s part of my job. I have to do my best to give the fans something to remember. I always put 100% of my heart into a fight and that makes me happy no matter what the result is.
“Both [Jaron] Ennis [who fights Sergey Lipinets in Showtime's main event] and I have step up fights on Saturday like everyone is saying. We both have our toughest challenges yet and I think we’re both on the same track now as the next champions in the division.
“Everything was good in training. I’ve been training nonstop. I haven’t taken a break since my last fight, so I’m always in shape. You never know when the call is going to come for your next fight.
“There is some pressure to be the first world champion from Lithuania. Everybody is going wild for this fight because they’re going to show it over there. It’s amazing and it’s very exciting for me.
“I think on Saturday I’m going to answer a lot of questions about me. I believe that I can beat any of the welterweight champions. Everyone will see my level and what I’m capable of. I know I have to step up every fight and prove it again and again.
“For me, it doesn’t matter who I fight next. I’ll never say no to a fight. It can be two against one and I’ll be up for it. I’m just that kind of person. I want to give it my best no matter what.
“I’m very thankful to have this opportunity on a stage like this. It’s a new era coming up of young hungry fighters in the welterweight division. I think my will to win and get knockouts will separate me. I also think my style is fan-friendly and that will help me stand out.
“I would accept a fight against a champion next, but I know that experience is important. I want experience against good opposition like Dulorme. I know that will get me ready and show my team that I’ll be ready for the champions when that time comes.”
THOMAS DULORME
“Fights don’t always go the way we expect them to, so I’m prepared for anything that happens in the ring. I have enough experience that I’m prepared for any way that Stanionis plans to fight.
“I learned a lot against Jamal James. He was a tall and awkward fighter. I think it was a good experience for me. Stanionis is a very different fighter, so we’re focused on what we need to do against a fighter with his skills.
“This is a good fight for the fans and for me and my career. I’m ready to show everyone that I’m still a serious contender in the welterweight division.
“Training camp was great. I worked in the gym for the last 10 weeks every day. Right now I’m feeling perfect and ready for Saturday night.
“I have to win this fight. I know that with a win I’m going to get the bigger opportunities that I’m looking for. My experience is going to be a big factor. I’m planning to test him and see how he holds up in the later rounds.
“Stanionis is a fighter who comes forward and throws punches. He stands in the middle, unlike Jamal James who was more evasive. That style is going to make it easier for me to put on the kind of fight that I want.”
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Results from Kazakhstan |
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In Kazakhstan on Friday, junior welterweight Hovhannes Bachkov (2-0, 1 KO) produced a first-round knockout win over Binali Shakhmandarov (2-1-1, 2 KOs)... middleweight Abay Tolesh (8-1, 5 KOs) was victorious after a hard-fought battle, beating Vsevolod Slipchenko (4-2, 1 KO) by majority decision after eight rounds, with the judges scoring it 77-75 (twice) and 76-76... junior middleweight Rakhat Seitzhan (5-0, 5 KOs) went the distance in his fight too, triumphing with a unanimous decision win against Serhii Soroka, with the judges scoring it 60-54 (twice) and 60-52 after six rounds... featherweight Aidos Medet (6-0, 4 KOs) stopped Pavlo Tryputen (2-8-1) in round three, and... featherweight Bagdat Uaydayev (5-0, 1 KO) secured the first stoppage win of his professional career, picking up a third round TKO win against Kostiantyn Stadnyk (5-7-2, 2 KOs). Source for all results: MTK Global
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Results from Kazakhstan
In Kazakhstan on Friday, junior welterweight Hovhannes Bachkov (2-0, 1 KO) produced a first-round knockout win over Binali Shakhmandarov (2-1-1, 2 KOs)... middleweight Abay Tolesh (8-1, 5 KOs) was victorious after a hard-fought battle, beating Vsevolod Slipchenko (4-2, 1 KO) by majority decision after eight rounds, with the judges scoring it 77-75 (twice) and 76-76... junior middleweight Rakhat Seitzhan (5-0, 5 KOs) went the distance in his fight too, triumphing with a unanimous decision win against Serhii Soroka, with the judges scoring it 60-54 (twice) and 60-52 after six rounds... featherweight Aidos Medet (6-0, 4 KOs) stopped Pavlo Tryputen (2-8-1) in round three, and... featherweight Bagdat Uaydayev (5-0, 1 KO) secured the first stoppage win of his professional career, picking up a third round TKO win against Kostiantyn Stadnyk (5-7-2, 2 KOs). Source for all results: MTK Global
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Jaime Munguia to face D'Mitrius Ballard on April 23rd |
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D'Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard (20-0-1, 13 KOs) is the replacement opponent to face ex-junior middleweight titleholder Jaime Munguía (36-0, 29 KOs) on Friday, April 23rd at the Don Haskins Center of the University of Texas in El Paso. Ballard steps in after an injury forced Maciej Sulecki out of the fight. The duel will be broadcast live on DAZN (except in Mexico).
"D'Mitrius Ballard has deserved an opportunity like this for a long time," said Oscar De La Hoya, President and CEO of Golden Boy. "This is the opportunity to finally show the world that he is ready for the best boxers in the world. this division. We wish Maciej Sulecki a speedy recovery, but we also want to emphasize that Ballard is not a mere replacement. He is a real threat," De La Hoya emphasized.
Ballard is a 28 year-old who had a tremendous amateur career, capturing several national championships. In 2013, the Temple Hills, Maryland native kicked off his professional career with a knockout win over Kelly Henderson. Ballard has since moved up the ranks, fighting tough opponents like Victor "Sina" Fonseca and Alan "Amenaza" Campa. Ballard, who is eager to make his mark in the middleweight division is coming off a majority draw against Olympic bronze medalist Yamaguchi Falcao.
"I feel very fortunate and blessed to have the opportunity to fight Jaime Munguía," said Ballard. "Extremely blessed, especially because of the condition the world is in due to COVID-19 and all the problems we are facing. This is the perfect opportunity to really show who D'Mitirus Ballard is and show my boxing skills. I am going to use this fight to introduce myself to the world again, "he concluded.
Munguia said of the switch in opponents, "These things happen in boxing and I have always had the mentality of being prepared for any opponent. I know that D’Mitrius Ballard is a great opponent with a lot of experience as an amateur and professional. So I hope to give everyone a great fight to get closer to a starting opportunity," he said.
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Jaime Munguia to face D'Mitrius Ballard on April 23rd
D'Mitrius “Big Meech” Ballard (20-0-1, 13 KOs) is the replacement opponent to face ex-junior middleweight titleholder Jaime Munguía (36-0, 29 KOs) on Friday, April 23rd at the Don Haskins Center of the University of Texas in El Paso. Ballard steps in after an injury forced Maciej Sulecki out of the fight. The duel will be broadcast live on DAZN (except in Mexico).
"D'Mitrius Ballard has deserved an opportunity like this for a long time," said Oscar De La Hoya, President and CEO of Golden Boy. "This is the opportunity to finally show the world that he is ready for the best boxers in the world. this division. We wish Maciej Sulecki a speedy recovery, but we also want to emphasize that Ballard is not a mere replacement. He is a real threat," De La Hoya emphasized.
Ballard is a 28 year-old who had a tremendous amateur career, capturing several national championships. In 2013, the Temple Hills, Maryland native kicked off his professional career with a knockout win over Kelly Henderson. Ballard has since moved up the ranks, fighting tough opponents like Victor "Sina" Fonseca and Alan "Amenaza" Campa. Ballard, who is eager to make his mark in the middleweight division is coming off a majority draw against Olympic bronze medalist Yamaguchi Falcao.
"I feel very fortunate and blessed to have the opportunity to fight Jaime Munguía," said Ballard. "Extremely blessed, especially because of the condition the world is in due to COVID-19 and all the problems we are facing. This is the perfect opportunity to really show who D'Mitirus Ballard is and show my boxing skills. I am going to use this fight to introduce myself to the world again, "he concluded.
Munguia said of the switch in opponents, "These things happen in boxing and I have always had the mentality of being prepared for any opponent. I know that D’Mitrius Ballard is a great opponent with a lot of experience as an amateur and professional. So I hope to give everyone a great fight to get closer to a starting opportunity," he said.
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A few words with Maxim Vlasov |
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Russia's Maxim Vlasov, inactive since 2019, will bid to win the vacant WBO light heavyweight title Saturday evening against Joe Smit Jr. at Osage Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma, live on ESPN and ESPN at 10 p.m. ET. The fight was originally booked for February but the 34 year-old Vlasov (45-3) tested positive for the coronavirus and the fight was temporarily derailed. Vlasov recovered, went home to Russia, and then finished training camp in Las Vegas. This is what Vlasov had to say at the final press conference:
"I’m sure that you will see no ring rust at all this time. I’ve been preparing well. I’ve been sharpening my skills, and I’m ready to give it my all, 100 percent.”
“I feel the same as a younger boxer who is less experienced because this is a great chance for me. This is a great responsibility, a great risk. I am very excited and motivated for this fight.”
“I have taken preparation seriously, watched many of his fights, and learned some things. I don’t like to talk about his weakest or strongest points or divulge any strategies or plans related to the fight.”
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A few words with Maxim Vlasov
Russia's Maxim Vlasov, inactive since 2019, will bid to win the vacant WBO light heavyweight title Saturday evening against Joe Smit Jr. at Osage Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma, live on ESPN and ESPN at 10 p.m. ET. The fight was originally booked for February but the 34 year-old Vlasov (45-3) tested positive for the coronavirus and the fight was temporarily derailed. Vlasov recovered, went home to Russia, and then finished training camp in Las Vegas. This is what Vlasov had to say at the final press conference:
"I’m sure that you will see no ring rust at all this time. I’ve been preparing well. I’ve been sharpening my skills, and I’m ready to give it my all, 100 percent.”
“I feel the same as a younger boxer who is less experienced because this is a great chance for me. This is a great responsibility, a great risk. I am very excited and motivated for this fight.”
“I have taken preparation seriously, watched many of his fights, and learned some things. I don’t like to talk about his weakest or strongest points or divulge any strategies or plans related to the fight.”
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Jay Harris to meet Ricardo Sandoval in IBF flyweight eliminator |
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Wales' Jay Harris will take on California's Ricardo Sandoval in an IBF final flyweight eliminator on the May 14th edition of MTK Fight Night. The twelve-round clash will serve as the main event at the University of Bolton Stadium in Bolton, England, and will be broadcast on ESPN+ and worldwide on IFL TV. Harris (18-1, 9 KOs) enjoyed a successful 2020, picking up a big points win over Marcel Braithwaite in October, whilst also making a name for himself in a thrilling but losing effort to WBC champion Julio Cesar Martinez in February 2020.
He now turns his attention to California’s Sandoval (18-1, 13 KOs), who heads into the bout on the back of five straight knockout wins, including a seventh-round stoppage victory over Raymond Tabugon in his last outing.
The winner of the bout will be the mandatory challenger for the IBF flyweight title, which is being contested later this month as South African legend Moruti Mthalane defends his belt against Sunny Edwards.
MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton said: “We’re proud to announce the date for our next MTK Fight Night, featuring this sensational clash between Jay Harris and Ricardo Sandoval. “Jay showed in 2020 that he is one of the best flyweights in the world, and now faces a tough test against Ricardo Sandoval. It’s great to be working with Golden Boy Promotions to get this fight on, and I’m convinced it’s going to be fireworks from the first bell to the last. We have a massive card full of big names to announce too, so keep your eyes peeled for that as it’s going to be another event that cannot be missed.”
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Jay Harris to meet Ricardo Sandoval in IBF flyweight eliminator
Wales' Jay Harris will take on California's Ricardo Sandoval in an IBF final flyweight eliminator on the May 14th edition of MTK Fight Night. The twelve-round clash will serve as the main event at the University of Bolton Stadium in Bolton, England, and will be broadcast on ESPN+ and worldwide on IFL TV. Harris (18-1, 9 KOs) enjoyed a successful 2020, picking up a big points win over Marcel Braithwaite in October, whilst also making a name for himself in a thrilling but losing effort to WBC champion Julio Cesar Martinez in February 2020.
He now turns his attention to California’s Sandoval (18-1, 13 KOs), who heads into the bout on the back of five straight knockout wins, including a seventh-round stoppage victory over Raymond Tabugon in his last outing.
The winner of the bout will be the mandatory challenger for the IBF flyweight title, which is being contested later this month as South African legend Moruti Mthalane defends his belt against Sunny Edwards.
MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton said: “We’re proud to announce the date for our next MTK Fight Night, featuring this sensational clash between Jay Harris and Ricardo Sandoval. “Jay showed in 2020 that he is one of the best flyweights in the world, and now faces a tough test against Ricardo Sandoval. It’s great to be working with Golden Boy Promotions to get this fight on, and I’m convinced it’s going to be fireworks from the first bell to the last. We have a massive card full of big names to announce too, so keep your eyes peeled for that as it’s going to be another event that cannot be missed.”
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Universum-Salita partnership launches in Hamburg on April 24th |
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On Saturday, April 24th, Universum Box-Promotion and Salita Promotions will co-host the inaugural event of their new partnership, a mammoth 14-fight show at the Universum Gym in Hamburg, Germany, streamed live on BILD +. In the twelve-round main event, 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Artem “The Original” Harutyunyan (16-3 including the World Series of Boxing) will face Nicaragua's Oliver “Trombita” Flores (30-3-2, 19 KOs) in a 140-pound bout. In the ten-round co-feature, Timo Schwarzkopf (20-4, 12 KOs) will face Vage Sarukhanyan (20-2-2, 4 KOs) at welterweight..
Also appearing on the livestream will be an intriguing eight-round showdown between undefeated German light heavyweights, as Rostam Ibrahim (6-0-1, 3 KOs) takes on Stuttgart’s Altin Zogaj (7-0, 5 KOs)...
In an eight-round women’s bout, 20 year-old Phannarai Netisri (7-0, 4 KOs), originally from Thailand, will take on 23 year-old Cheyenne “Pepper” Hanson (8-1, 6 KOs) at 122 pounds...
A six-round heavyweight battle is also scheduled for broadcast between southpaw Senad “GachineGun” Gashi (20- 3, 20 KOs) and Germany's Dominic Vial (6-0, 5 KOs)...
In a six-round super middleweight bout, Rafael “Karibik Tiger” Bejaran (26-5-1, 12 KOs), originally from the Dominican Republic will take on Germany’s Florian Wildenhof (30-6-1, 11 KOs)...
And to open the broadcast, Cuban lightweight Frank Zaldivar will face an opponent that is TBA in a six-rounder.
“We are very happy to be able to present a very international fight card worldwide on April 24th,” said Ismail Özen-Otto, CEO of Universum. “In the main fight we have two elite athletes, Artem Harutyunyan the Olympic bronze winner of the Olympic Games in Rio 2016 against Oliver Flores from Nicaragua. The winner of this fight could soon be a world championship challenger.”
“I am excited about working with Universum CEO Ismail Özen- Otto and matchmaker Flavio Oleaga Mirabal and all their world-class fighters,” added Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “On April 24th, boxing fans will get a chance to see some of the best international talent on the planet in competitive, match-ups.”
Oleaga Mirabal, who put the card together, says he’s happy about the exposure the Universum fighters will receive from the partnership with Salita. “The fight card is very exciting. We will stream it in Germany with our media partner Bild + and thanks to our US partner Salita Promotions, we will also broadcast it internationally with other media partners,” he said. “This is a great start to our collaboration.”
A further seven fights will be held on the untelevised portion of the undercard, featuring several of Germany’s next wave of boxing talent in career-building challenges.
The April 24th broadcast will begin at 7:30 German time (1:30 pm ET in the US).
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Universum-Salita partnership launches in Hamburg on April 24th
On Saturday, April 24th, Universum Box-Promotion and Salita Promotions will co-host the inaugural event of their new partnership, a mammoth 14-fight show at the Universum Gym in Hamburg, Germany, streamed live on BILD +. In the twelve-round main event, 2016 Olympic bronze medalist Artem “The Original” Harutyunyan (16-3 including the World Series of Boxing) will face Nicaragua's Oliver “Trombita” Flores (30-3-2, 19 KOs) in a 140-pound bout. In the ten-round co-feature, Timo Schwarzkopf (20-4, 12 KOs) will face Vage Sarukhanyan (20-2-2, 4 KOs) at welterweight..
Also appearing on the livestream will be an intriguing eight-round showdown between undefeated German light heavyweights, as Rostam Ibrahim (6-0-1, 3 KOs) takes on Stuttgart’s Altin Zogaj (7-0, 5 KOs)...
In an eight-round women’s bout, 20 year-old Phannarai Netisri (7-0, 4 KOs), originally from Thailand, will take on 23 year-old Cheyenne “Pepper” Hanson (8-1, 6 KOs) at 122 pounds...
A six-round heavyweight battle is also scheduled for broadcast between southpaw Senad “GachineGun” Gashi (20- 3, 20 KOs) and Germany's Dominic Vial (6-0, 5 KOs)...
In a six-round super middleweight bout, Rafael “Karibik Tiger” Bejaran (26-5-1, 12 KOs), originally from the Dominican Republic will take on Germany’s Florian Wildenhof (30-6-1, 11 KOs)...
And to open the broadcast, Cuban lightweight Frank Zaldivar will face an opponent that is TBA in a six-rounder.
“We are very happy to be able to present a very international fight card worldwide on April 24th,” said Ismail Özen-Otto, CEO of Universum. “In the main fight we have two elite athletes, Artem Harutyunyan the Olympic bronze winner of the Olympic Games in Rio 2016 against Oliver Flores from Nicaragua. The winner of this fight could soon be a world championship challenger.”
“I am excited about working with Universum CEO Ismail Özen- Otto and matchmaker Flavio Oleaga Mirabal and all their world-class fighters,” added Dmitriy Salita, President of Salita Promotions. “On April 24th, boxing fans will get a chance to see some of the best international talent on the planet in competitive, match-ups.”
Oleaga Mirabal, who put the card together, says he’s happy about the exposure the Universum fighters will receive from the partnership with Salita. “The fight card is very exciting. We will stream it in Germany with our media partner Bild + and thanks to our US partner Salita Promotions, we will also broadcast it internationally with other media partners,” he said. “This is a great start to our collaboration.”
A further seven fights will be held on the untelevised portion of the undercard, featuring several of Germany’s next wave of boxing talent in career-building challenges.
The April 24th broadcast will begin at 7:30 German time (1:30 pm ET in the US).
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Russian heavyweight Andrey Fedosov to end long layoff |
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Andrey Fedosov takes on Mahammadrasul Majidov on Saturday, April 17th at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The fight will be streamed live on DAZN. Fedosov of Shuya, Russia, will be making his first ring appearance of 2021, and has a record of 31-3 with 25 knockouts. Fedosov, a former Boxcino tournament winner, began his career in Russia and did well when taking his career stateside [before a long stretch of inactivity], as he has a record of 12-2 with 11 knockouts, which includes three knockout victories in Boxcino. From Azerbaijan, Majidov is 15-3 including the World Series of Boxing, and is a three-time world amateur champion.
Fedosov, inactive since a 2018 win over Joey Dawejko, said, "I am excited to be back in the ring. The pandemic held me back, but I am ready to go on April 17th. I know my opponent was a decorated amateur, but I am a very experienced professional. That will be the difference on fight night," said Fedosov
"With a win, Andrey puts himself back in the mix in the heavyweight division. He has the ability to defeat anybody, and we look forward to him putting on a major performance on April 17th, said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.
"I am excited to be part of the team with Banner Promotions. We are looking forward on Andrey having a great performance and working towards being a top contender in the heavyweight division," said Gary McCarthy of Newsboy Boxing Promotions.
Said Steve Burman of Newsboy Boxing Promotions, "This is going to be a great fight for Andrey. I can not wait for Andrey to get in there and display that he is one of the top heavyweights in the world. With a win, the sky is the limit for his success."
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Russian heavyweight Andrey Fedosov to end long layoff
Andrey Fedosov takes on Mahammadrasul Majidov on Saturday, April 17th at The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The fight will be streamed live on DAZN. Fedosov of Shuya, Russia, will be making his first ring appearance of 2021, and has a record of 31-3 with 25 knockouts. Fedosov, a former Boxcino tournament winner, began his career in Russia and did well when taking his career stateside [before a long stretch of inactivity], as he has a record of 12-2 with 11 knockouts, which includes three knockout victories in Boxcino. From Azerbaijan, Majidov is 15-3 including the World Series of Boxing, and is a three-time world amateur champion.
Fedosov, inactive since a 2018 win over Joey Dawejko, said, "I am excited to be back in the ring. The pandemic held me back, but I am ready to go on April 17th. I know my opponent was a decorated amateur, but I am a very experienced professional. That will be the difference on fight night," said Fedosov
"With a win, Andrey puts himself back in the mix in the heavyweight division. He has the ability to defeat anybody, and we look forward to him putting on a major performance on April 17th, said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.
"I am excited to be part of the team with Banner Promotions. We are looking forward on Andrey having a great performance and working towards being a top contender in the heavyweight division," said Gary McCarthy of Newsboy Boxing Promotions.
Said Steve Burman of Newsboy Boxing Promotions, "This is going to be a great fight for Andrey. I can not wait for Andrey to get in there and display that he is one of the top heavyweights in the world. With a win, the sky is the limit for his success."
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Indonesian update: Tibo Monabesa to face Toto Landero |
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Indonesian light flyweight Tibo Monabesa will take on Filipino Toto Landero on April 10th in Jakarta, Indonesia, in an event promoted by Armin Tan. Monabesa (20-1-2, 8 KOs) has been inactive since July 2019 when he defeated Australia's Omari Kimweri via unanimous decision. His one loss is to Hiroto Kyoguchi, the reigning WBA champion. Monabesa has 5 wins and a draw against Filipino fighters. Meanwhile, Landero (11- 4-2, 2 KOs) performed very well in his last fight, a September 2019 win against compatriot Joel Lino. Landero holds a notable victory over reigning IBF 105-pound champion Victorio Saludar.
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Indonesian update: Tibo Monabesa to face Toto Landero
Indonesian light flyweight Tibo Monabesa will take on Filipino Toto Landero on April 10th in Jakarta, Indonesia, in an event promoted by Armin Tan. Monabesa (20-1-2, 8 KOs) has been inactive since July 2019 when he defeated Australia's Omari Kimweri via unanimous decision. His one loss is to Hiroto Kyoguchi, the reigning WBA champion. Monabesa has 5 wins and a draw against Filipino fighters. Meanwhile, Landero (11- 4-2, 2 KOs) performed very well in his last fight, a September 2019 win against compatriot Joel Lino. Landero holds a notable victory over reigning IBF 105-pound champion Victorio Saludar.
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New division, new trainer for Bryant Perrella |
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Hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella detailed his current training camp, including what he’s learned from his new trainer, all-time great Roy Jones Jr., and previewed his upcoming showdown against former WBC 154-pound champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison, whom he faces on Fox PBC Fight Night and Fox Deportes on Saturday, April 17th at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles. “After my last fight I went on a bit of a sparring tour,” said Perrella, detailing the origins of how he linked up with his new trainer. “I ended up sparring with some of Roy’s guys in Pensacola, and afterward he let me stay to soak up some more knowledge. The rest is history. It was an easy decision to stay out there and grow under one of the best fighters ever. It’s like going off to a university. Every day I come in with my notepad and pen ready.”
Perrella will return to the ring after suffering a disappointing defeat in his last fight in February 2020. Perrella led on all three scorecards heading into the final round against Abel Ramos, but was stopped in the waning moments of the last round. For Perrella, he’s learned from the experience, and combined with his new trainer, believes it will all end up helping him long term.
“Everything that happened with the Ramos fight has been addressed and changed,” said Perrella. “That lost sent me on the journey that led me to this new weight class and training with Roy. Everything happens for a reason, as long as you look for that reason and have faith in it. That reason has been shown to me in so many ways and it’s a huge blessing.”
After spending a majority his career fighting at 147 pounds, Perrella will fight in the 154-pound division for the first time since his third pro fight. For the six-foot, one-inch Perrella, he believes that moving up in weight full-time will open up different aspects of his game. “The decision to move up in weight was because of how I felt in the Ramos fight,” said Perrella. “Making 147 pounds was taking a lot out of me. I performed well, but I know how I felt in that ring. I have so much more to give as a fighter. That was really only 30% of me. Making weight was coming at a cost and I no longer thought it was helping me. I know these fighters at 154 are bigger and stronger, but so am I. I’m going to be stronger than ever and I’m going to be ready to tangle. I probably should have been at this weight for a while. I was always a fighter moving down in weight. I still train hard like always, but by not having to worry as much about weight, I’m able to add big layers to my game. With all these changes, I even surprise myself some days with what I can do now. I’m super confident and I can’t wait to bring it all to the ring on fight night.”
Perrella not only finds motivation from returning in a primetime main event, but from having elite opposition in the former 154-pound champion Harrison. Perrella knows that Harrison presents a versatile and difficult task, but is more than up to the challenge in front of him. “This is a huge opportunity to fight one of the top guys at this weight,” said Perrella. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. It definitely helps motivate me to have this kind of chance on this stage against a fighter like Tony. He has different layers and dimensions to his game. He can box with his jab and length, but he can also come forward with that high guard. At this level, it’s a game of adjustments. This is going to be an interesting clash of styles. There’s no other southpaw like me. He’s sharp and has experience, but I’m a whole different kind of animal than anything he’s seen.”
With Roy Jones Jr. in his corner, Perrella believes that he has the confidence to not only come out victorious on April 17, but to make this a memorable action fight for fans watching. “I have a unique approach and now I have Roy passing down his knowledge from his experiences,” said Perrella. “It’s like a shortcut. I’m getting the knowledge handed right to me instead of going through it not knowing what to expect. This matchup is between two strong fighters and the fans can expect an action packed fight from start to finish.”
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New division, new trainer for Bryant Perrella
Hard-hitting southpaw Bryant “Goodfella” Perrella detailed his current training camp, including what he’s learned from his new trainer, all-time great Roy Jones Jr., and previewed his upcoming showdown against former WBC 154-pound champion Tony “Superbad” Harrison, whom he faces on Fox PBC Fight Night and Fox Deportes on Saturday, April 17th at the Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in Los Angeles. “After my last fight I went on a bit of a sparring tour,” said Perrella, detailing the origins of how he linked up with his new trainer. “I ended up sparring with some of Roy’s guys in Pensacola, and afterward he let me stay to soak up some more knowledge. The rest is history. It was an easy decision to stay out there and grow under one of the best fighters ever. It’s like going off to a university. Every day I come in with my notepad and pen ready.”
Perrella will return to the ring after suffering a disappointing defeat in his last fight in February 2020. Perrella led on all three scorecards heading into the final round against Abel Ramos, but was stopped in the waning moments of the last round. For Perrella, he’s learned from the experience, and combined with his new trainer, believes it will all end up helping him long term.
“Everything that happened with the Ramos fight has been addressed and changed,” said Perrella. “That lost sent me on the journey that led me to this new weight class and training with Roy. Everything happens for a reason, as long as you look for that reason and have faith in it. That reason has been shown to me in so many ways and it’s a huge blessing.”
After spending a majority his career fighting at 147 pounds, Perrella will fight in the 154-pound division for the first time since his third pro fight. For the six-foot, one-inch Perrella, he believes that moving up in weight full-time will open up different aspects of his game. “The decision to move up in weight was because of how I felt in the Ramos fight,” said Perrella. “Making 147 pounds was taking a lot out of me. I performed well, but I know how I felt in that ring. I have so much more to give as a fighter. That was really only 30% of me. Making weight was coming at a cost and I no longer thought it was helping me. I know these fighters at 154 are bigger and stronger, but so am I. I’m going to be stronger than ever and I’m going to be ready to tangle. I probably should have been at this weight for a while. I was always a fighter moving down in weight. I still train hard like always, but by not having to worry as much about weight, I’m able to add big layers to my game. With all these changes, I even surprise myself some days with what I can do now. I’m super confident and I can’t wait to bring it all to the ring on fight night.”
Perrella not only finds motivation from returning in a primetime main event, but from having elite opposition in the former 154-pound champion Harrison. Perrella knows that Harrison presents a versatile and difficult task, but is more than up to the challenge in front of him. “This is a huge opportunity to fight one of the top guys at this weight,” said Perrella. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. It definitely helps motivate me to have this kind of chance on this stage against a fighter like Tony. He has different layers and dimensions to his game. He can box with his jab and length, but he can also come forward with that high guard. At this level, it’s a game of adjustments. This is going to be an interesting clash of styles. There’s no other southpaw like me. He’s sharp and has experience, but I’m a whole different kind of animal than anything he’s seen.”
With Roy Jones Jr. in his corner, Perrella believes that he has the confidence to not only come out victorious on April 17, but to make this a memorable action fight for fans watching. “I have a unique approach and now I have Roy passing down his knowledge from his experiences,” said Perrella. “It’s like a shortcut. I’m getting the knowledge handed right to me instead of going through it not knowing what to expect. This matchup is between two strong fighters and the fans can expect an action packed fight from start to finish.”
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Late results from Philly: much-needed win for Dawejko |
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Joey Dawejko TKO1 Joe Jones... This past Saturday night, Philadelphia-based heavyweight Joey Dawejko knocked out Joe Jones in the opening round of their scheduled eight rounder at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Dawejko was dominant, dropping Jones twice, with the final punch coming from a big left hook, and the fight was halted at 2:50. Dawejko got his first win since 2019 and improved his record to 21-8-4 with 12 knockouts. Jones falls to 11-4.
Nahir Albright TKO3 Dante Cox... In the co-feature, lightweight Nahir Albright notched his third consecutive stoppage victory by stopping Dante Cox in round three of their scheduled six-round bout. Albright dropped Cox twice in round two, and finished him off at 2:13 of the third frame. Albright of Sicklerville, NJ is now 11-1 with five knockouts. Cox of Glen Burnie, MD is 6-2.
MORE RESULTS
Former National Golden Gloves champion Mike Hilton shrugged off a knockdown to win a six-round unanimous decision over Twon Smith in a cruiserweight fight. Smith put Hilton down for a flash knockdown in round three from a left. That was sandwiched around Hilton outboxing Smith, and Hilton took all three cards by 58-55 scores. Hilton of Trenton, NJ is 11-0. Smith falls to 3-5...
Afunwa King scored a mild upset by taking a six-round majority decision over previously undefeated Benny Sinakin in a light heavyweight bout. King took two cards by 58-56 tallies, while a third card read even at 57-57. King is now 3-1. Sinakin of Philadelphia is 6-1...
Matthew Gonzalez of Brooklyn, New York remained undefeated, taking out Luis Eduardo Florez in round five of a scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout. The time of the stoppage was 2:13 for Gonzalez, who is now 12-0 with eight knockouts. Florez is now 25-19...
Rasheen Brown stopped late-replacement Christopher Nelson in round three of their four-round featherweight fight. Brown dominated with body shots, and the fight was stopped at 1:50 of round three. A West Philadelphia native, Brown is 7-0 with four knockouts. Nelson is 3-18.
Tahmir Smalls remained undefeated by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Andres Abarca in a welterweight bout. Scores were 40-34 (twice) and 39-35 for Smalls, who is now 3-0. Abarca, is 2-4 and...
Jahdon Ervin made a successful pro debut by taking a four-round unanimous decision over Kareem Gladney in a middleweight fight. Ervin of St. Clair, PA is 1-0. Gladney is 0-4. A limited number of seats were available due to Covid restrictions, and were filled to that limited capacity. The fights were streamed worldwide on BXNGTV.com. source for all results: RDR Promotions.
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Late results from Philly: much-needed win for Dawejko
Joey Dawejko TKO1 Joe Jones... This past Saturday night, Philadelphia-based heavyweight Joey Dawejko knocked out Joe Jones in the opening round of their scheduled eight rounder at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. Dawejko was dominant, dropping Jones twice, with the final punch coming from a big left hook, and the fight was halted at 2:50. Dawejko got his first win since 2019 and improved his record to 21-8-4 with 12 knockouts. Jones falls to 11-4.
Nahir Albright TKO3 Dante Cox... In the co-feature, lightweight Nahir Albright notched his third consecutive stoppage victory by stopping Dante Cox in round three of their scheduled six-round bout. Albright dropped Cox twice in round two, and finished him off at 2:13 of the third frame. Albright of Sicklerville, NJ is now 11-1 with five knockouts. Cox of Glen Burnie, MD is 6-2.
MORE RESULTS
Former National Golden Gloves champion Mike Hilton shrugged off a knockdown to win a six-round unanimous decision over Twon Smith in a cruiserweight fight. Smith put Hilton down for a flash knockdown in round three from a left. That was sandwiched around Hilton outboxing Smith, and Hilton took all three cards by 58-55 scores. Hilton of Trenton, NJ is 11-0. Smith falls to 3-5...
Afunwa King scored a mild upset by taking a six-round majority decision over previously undefeated Benny Sinakin in a light heavyweight bout. King took two cards by 58-56 tallies, while a third card read even at 57-57. King is now 3-1. Sinakin of Philadelphia is 6-1...
Matthew Gonzalez of Brooklyn, New York remained undefeated, taking out Luis Eduardo Florez in round five of a scheduled six-round junior welterweight bout. The time of the stoppage was 2:13 for Gonzalez, who is now 12-0 with eight knockouts. Florez is now 25-19...
Rasheen Brown stopped late-replacement Christopher Nelson in round three of their four-round featherweight fight. Brown dominated with body shots, and the fight was stopped at 1:50 of round three. A West Philadelphia native, Brown is 7-0 with four knockouts. Nelson is 3-18.
Tahmir Smalls remained undefeated by winning a four-round unanimous decision over Andres Abarca in a welterweight bout. Scores were 40-34 (twice) and 39-35 for Smalls, who is now 3-0. Abarca, is 2-4 and...
Jahdon Ervin made a successful pro debut by taking a four-round unanimous decision over Kareem Gladney in a middleweight fight. Ervin of St. Clair, PA is 1-0. Gladney is 0-4. A limited number of seats were available due to Covid restrictions, and were filled to that limited capacity. The fights were streamed worldwide on BXNGTV.com. source for all results: RDR Promotions.
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Spotlight on Marshall-Lindberg |
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Savannah Marshall believes that Maria Lindberg will be a much more difficult test than original opponent Femke Hermans when they meet for the WBO middleweight title this weekend. The fight takes place on the undercard of Conor Benn’s clash with Samuel Vargas at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday, live on Sky Sports and DAZN. Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) was originally due to defend her title against Hermans before she forced to withdraw after a member of her team tested positive for the coronavirus, and she feels that Lindberg (19-6-2, 10 KOs) will be a harder battle. Marshall said: “I think this is a tougher fight than the original fight. Maria is very experienced and tough. She’s been in with some of the best in the world. She’s a four-time world title challenger, but I’ve had a twelve-week camp so I’ve prepared for everything. Whatever Maria brings I’m more than confident I’ve got an answer for."
Marshall continued. “If I win here then there is the Claressa Shields fight. Every boxer dreams to be undisputed champion. I do believe that is the biggest fight in female boxing. No disrespect to Maria though as I can’t look past her.”
Lindberg added: “I’m always in training so I’m prepared. This is a new experience than me, I’ve never taken a fight with this short notice but there is a first time for everything. I’m excited and I’m looking forward to Saturday. I’m more seasoned as a professional. I’ve had many title fights and the experience is on my side and I am going to make it hard for her on Saturday.”
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Spotlight on Marshall-Lindberg
Savannah Marshall believes that Maria Lindberg will be a much more difficult test than original opponent Femke Hermans when they meet for the WBO middleweight title this weekend. The fight takes place on the undercard of Conor Benn’s clash with Samuel Vargas at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday, live on Sky Sports and DAZN. Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) was originally due to defend her title against Hermans before she forced to withdraw after a member of her team tested positive for the coronavirus, and she feels that Lindberg (19-6-2, 10 KOs) will be a harder battle. Marshall said: “I think this is a tougher fight than the original fight. Maria is very experienced and tough. She’s been in with some of the best in the world. She’s a four-time world title challenger, but I’ve had a twelve-week camp so I’ve prepared for everything. Whatever Maria brings I’m more than confident I’ve got an answer for."
Marshall continued. “If I win here then there is the Claressa Shields fight. Every boxer dreams to be undisputed champion. I do believe that is the biggest fight in female boxing. No disrespect to Maria though as I can’t look past her.”
Lindberg added: “I’m always in training so I’m prepared. This is a new experience than me, I’ve never taken a fight with this short notice but there is a first time for everything. I’m excited and I’m looking forward to Saturday. I’m more seasoned as a professional. I’ve had many title fights and the experience is on my side and I am going to make it hard for her on Saturday.”
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Mrdjenovich to defend title on Ring City |
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Ring City USA today added a championship fight to its Thursday, April 22nd event at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York, live on NBC Sports Network (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). WBA featherweight champion Jelena Mrdjenovich (41-10-2, 19 KOs) of Edmonton, Canada will defend against Erika Cruz Hernandez (12-1-0, 3 KOs) of Mexico City. Also included on the broadcast will be a ten-round clash between undefeated junior welterweights Juan Pablo ‘El Pivi’ Romero (13-0, 9 KOs) of Mexico and Jonathan ‘Thunder’ Navarro (17-0, 9 KOs) of East Los Angeles. The previously announced main event is a heavyweight clash between Jermaine Franklin (20-0, 13 KOs) and Stephan Shaw (14-0, 10 KOs)
Mrdjenovich, 38, returns to the Ring City USA squared circle following her fifth title defense, a ten-round unanimous decision victory against Iranda Paolo Torres on December 17, 2020. The three-division champion won the WBA world title in March 2016 defeating champion Edith Matthysse. A pioneer for women’s boxing in Canada, Mrdjenovich is currently the second-ranked featherweight in the world, behind only Amanda Serrano.
Cruz Hernandez, 30, will be challenging for her first world title. The southpaw is currently riding an eleven-bout winning streak including victories over Vissia Trovato and Jocelyn Morales Torres.
Making his United States debut, the heavy-handed Romero arrives for battle following a ten-round unanimous decision over Sergio Torres on November 28, 2020 in Mexico City. Prior to his most recent outing, Romero, 31, has faced good competition and performed well by knocking out four consecutive opponents within the first four rounds.
The 24 year-old Jonathan Navarro turned professional five years ago. The nephew of former perennial contenders Jose and Carlos Navarro, Jonathan is trained by Robert Garcia. Coming off a 17-month layoff, he hits the ring following a second round knockout of Lebin Morales on October 24, 2019 in Indio, CA. Among the victories on his ledger include a seventh-round knockout over then-unbeaten contender Damon Allen in August 2018.
Bonus undercard action will stream live around the world on Twitch. Armed Forces Network Europe and Pacific will also make the broadcast available to U.S. Forces serving overseas on AFN TV. More details on the Ring City USA event on April 22 from West Point will be announced at a later date.
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Mrdjenovich to defend title on Ring City
Ring City USA today added a championship fight to its Thursday, April 22nd event at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York, live on NBC Sports Network (9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT). WBA featherweight champion Jelena Mrdjenovich (41-10-2, 19 KOs) of Edmonton, Canada will defend against Erika Cruz Hernandez (12-1-0, 3 KOs) of Mexico City. Also included on the broadcast will be a ten-round clash between undefeated junior welterweights Juan Pablo ‘El Pivi’ Romero (13-0, 9 KOs) of Mexico and Jonathan ‘Thunder’ Navarro (17-0, 9 KOs) of East Los Angeles. The previously announced main event is a heavyweight clash between Jermaine Franklin (20-0, 13 KOs) and Stephan Shaw (14-0, 10 KOs)
Mrdjenovich, 38, returns to the Ring City USA squared circle following her fifth title defense, a ten-round unanimous decision victory against Iranda Paolo Torres on December 17, 2020. The three-division champion won the WBA world title in March 2016 defeating champion Edith Matthysse. A pioneer for women’s boxing in Canada, Mrdjenovich is currently the second-ranked featherweight in the world, behind only Amanda Serrano.
Cruz Hernandez, 30, will be challenging for her first world title. The southpaw is currently riding an eleven-bout winning streak including victories over Vissia Trovato and Jocelyn Morales Torres.
Making his United States debut, the heavy-handed Romero arrives for battle following a ten-round unanimous decision over Sergio Torres on November 28, 2020 in Mexico City. Prior to his most recent outing, Romero, 31, has faced good competition and performed well by knocking out four consecutive opponents within the first four rounds.
The 24 year-old Jonathan Navarro turned professional five years ago. The nephew of former perennial contenders Jose and Carlos Navarro, Jonathan is trained by Robert Garcia. Coming off a 17-month layoff, he hits the ring following a second round knockout of Lebin Morales on October 24, 2019 in Indio, CA. Among the victories on his ledger include a seventh-round knockout over then-unbeaten contender Damon Allen in August 2018.
Bonus undercard action will stream live around the world on Twitch. Armed Forces Network Europe and Pacific will also make the broadcast available to U.S. Forces serving overseas on AFN TV. More details on the Ring City USA event on April 22 from West Point will be announced at a later date.
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WBA orders Akhmadaliev to defend vs. Rios |
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The WBA ordered its 122-pound champion, Murodjon Akhmadaliev (pictured) of Uzbekistan to make a the mandatory defense against Ronny Rios of the United States. [Akhmadaliev also holds the IBF championship, so he has more leverage to choose another fight if he so wishes]. According to the WBA, Akhmadaliev’s mandatory became due on January 29th, but the WBA allowed the champion to make his IBF mandatory defense against Japanese Ryosuke Iwasa last weekend. The WBA granted the teams the normal thirty days for negotiations starting on April 6th. This period will end on May 6th, and if no deal has yet been made, theWBA may call for purse bids to determine the promotional rights of the fight.
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WBA orders Akhmadaliev to defend vs. Rios
The WBA ordered its 122-pound champion, Murodjon Akhmadaliev (pictured) of Uzbekistan to make a the mandatory defense against Ronny Rios of the United States. [Akhmadaliev also holds the IBF championship, so he has more leverage to choose another fight if he so wishes]. According to the WBA, Akhmadaliev’s mandatory became due on January 29th, but the WBA allowed the champion to make his IBF mandatory defense against Japanese Ryosuke Iwasa last weekend. The WBA granted the teams the normal thirty days for negotiations starting on April 6th. This period will end on May 6th, and if no deal has yet been made, theWBA may call for purse bids to determine the promotional rights of the fight.
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Report: Julio César Martínez is recovered from hand injury |
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The WBC reports that its flyweight champion, Julio César Martínez is recovered from the fracture he suffered to his right hand and is back in the gym waiting for a date to defend his title against the interim title holder McWilliams Arroyo of Puerto Rico. Martínez, who pulled out just days before he was scheduled to fight Arroyo, shared how his injury occurred. “I was boxing with a guy a little heavier than me. I flipped him over and and that’s where the inflammation of the hand began to hurt. When we went to the doctor, he diagnosed me with a metacarpal fracture, so the fight was cancelled. We are seeing if in May we ready for action. We are discussing that with [my trainer / manager] Eddy Reynoso and in turn, with the promoter Eddie Hearn,” said the champion.
McWilliams, who was Martinez's mandatory challenger for the division, knocked out late replacement Abraham ‘Choco’ Rodríguez to win the WBC interim title.
Martínez thanked Ciro Nucci, President of the Mexico City Boxing Commission, for his support concerning his recent injury. “The truth is, since I was national champion, he has given me his unconditional support. He took me to his specialist, and he helped me a lot.”
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Report: Julio César Martínez is recovered from hand injury
The WBC reports that its flyweight champion, Julio César Martínez is recovered from the fracture he suffered to his right hand and is back in the gym waiting for a date to defend his title against the interim title holder McWilliams Arroyo of Puerto Rico. Martínez, who pulled out just days before he was scheduled to fight Arroyo, shared how his injury occurred. “I was boxing with a guy a little heavier than me. I flipped him over and and that’s where the inflammation of the hand began to hurt. When we went to the doctor, he diagnosed me with a metacarpal fracture, so the fight was cancelled. We are seeing if in May we ready for action. We are discussing that with [my trainer / manager] Eddy Reynoso and in turn, with the promoter Eddie Hearn,” said the champion.
McWilliams, who was Martinez's mandatory challenger for the division, knocked out late replacement Abraham ‘Choco’ Rodríguez to win the WBC interim title.
Martínez thanked Ciro Nucci, President of the Mexico City Boxing Commission, for his support concerning his recent injury. “The truth is, since I was national champion, he has given me his unconditional support. He took me to his specialist, and he helped me a lot.”
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Coronavirus causes line-up change for Saturday's DAZN card |
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Savannah Marshall will now defend her WBO middleweight title against four-time world title challenger Maria Lindberg (19-6-2, 10 KOs) this weekend. Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) was originally due to defend her title against Femke Hermans, but Hermans was forced to withdraw after a member of her team tested positive for the coronavirus. The fight takes place on the undercard of Conor Benn’s clash with Samuel Vargas at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday, live on Sky Sports and DAZN. Marshall won the title in her last fight, picking up a seventh-round stoppage victory over Hannah Rankin at Wembley Arena in October. Sweden’s Lindberg has challenged, and lost, for world honors against the likes of Christina Hammer, Ema Kozin and Marie Eve Dicaire.
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Coronavirus causes line-up change for Saturday's DAZN card
Savannah Marshall will now defend her WBO middleweight title against four-time world title challenger Maria Lindberg (19-6-2, 10 KOs) this weekend. Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) was originally due to defend her title against Femke Hermans, but Hermans was forced to withdraw after a member of her team tested positive for the coronavirus. The fight takes place on the undercard of Conor Benn’s clash with Samuel Vargas at the Copper Box Arena in London on Saturday, live on Sky Sports and DAZN. Marshall won the title in her last fight, picking up a seventh-round stoppage victory over Hannah Rankin at Wembley Arena in October. Sweden’s Lindberg has challenged, and lost, for world honors against the likes of Christina Hammer, Ema Kozin and Marie Eve Dicaire.
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Carlos Ocampo in action this weekend |
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Mexican junior middleweight Carlos Ocampo (28-1, 18 KOs) will test himself against Venezuela's Iván Matute (30-3, 25 KOs) over ten rounds this Saturday at the Grand Hotel Tijuana, on a Zanfer show to be broadcast by Azteca 7, the Casa del Boxeo. Ocampo comes from knocking out Abraham Juárez last January on the same stage, and seeks to extend his winning streak from six to seven since he losing a welterweight title bid to Errol Spence in June 2018. matute has not fought since a 2019 loss to Bryan Medina (now 14-2). The co-feature, also a junior middleweight contest will see Dubiel Sánchez (16-0-2, 12 KOs) in a ten rounder against Rubén “Romano” Orozco (listed at 12-2, 5 KOs). Last January, Sánchez got a difficult win against the experienced Guadalupe “Bronco” Rosales, while Orozco is coming off a December loss.
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Carlos Ocampo in action this weekend
Mexican junior middleweight Carlos Ocampo (28-1, 18 KOs) will test himself against Venezuela's Iván Matute (30-3, 25 KOs) over ten rounds this Saturday at the Grand Hotel Tijuana, on a Zanfer show to be broadcast by Azteca 7, the Casa del Boxeo. Ocampo comes from knocking out Abraham Juárez last January on the same stage, and seeks to extend his winning streak from six to seven since he losing a welterweight title bid to Errol Spence in June 2018. matute has not fought since a 2019 loss to Bryan Medina (now 14-2). The co-feature, also a junior middleweight contest will see Dubiel Sánchez (16-0-2, 12 KOs) in a ten rounder against Rubén “Romano” Orozco (listed at 12-2, 5 KOs). Last January, Sánchez got a difficult win against the experienced Guadalupe “Bronco” Rosales, while Orozco is coming off a December loss.
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Dutchover books fight in College Station, Texas |
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Memorial Day will see junior welterweight Michael Dutchover in front of his Lone Star State in a UFC Fight Pass show on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station. A native of Midland, Texas, Dutchover (14-1 with 10 KOs) will battle Mexico's Ivan Leon Benitez (14-4-1 with 6 KOs) in a ten-round bout on Friday, May 28th at Reed Arena. The 23 year-old Dutchover, known as the "West Texas Warrior," has wins over Miguel Cariozza (10-1); Ricardo Lopez (7-1-2); Bergman Aguilar (14-3-1); Rosekie Cristobal (15-3), and, in his last bout, an eight-round unanimous decision over Jorge Marron (18-1).
From Cancun, Benitez is just twenty years old, but is already a six-year professional! He is coming off a draw with undefeated Francisco Javier Lopez Corrales (12-0) on December 8th in Mexico. "I will have a difficult task ahead of me in fighting Dutchover, but May 28th will be my day. I will be prepared to give the fans a great show and to beat my opponent. This is what I work for everyday, and he will not derail my dreams of becoming a future champion," said Benitez.
Dutchover is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. "In December I was supposed to fight, but I had an injury, and things happen for a reason. I am back in California training and am excited to get back in the ring. There is no place that I would rather fight than in Texas. I will have fans there from Midland and all over the state. This is my fifth year as a professional, and this is the year that I become a contender," said Dutchover.
No bouts are set yet for the undercard, but the plan is for Mexican heavyweight Isaac Munoz Gutierrez to return for the first time since 2019. Gutierrez was a successful amateur who has a record of 17-3-1 including the World Series of Boxing. He has stopped his last six opponents and is coming off a first-round stoppage of Jesus Alberto Torres Martinez back in September 2019...
Seeing action in an eight-round bout will be lightweight, Miguel Maduenoa, a 22 year-old from Orange, California with a record of 22-0 with 20 knockouts. Madueno is a four-year professional who has wins over Cristian Flores (7-1-2); Jesus Rendon (13-1-1), and his last bout, a stoppage of Jesus Quintero Velarde in two rounds on December 18th.
Opening up the broadcast will see Jamshidbek Najmitdinov take part in an eight-round junior welterweight fight. Najmitdinov, of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, has a record of 16-1 with 13 knockouts. Najmitdinov is an eight-year professional who will be making his American debut. Najmitdinov has been in several all-action fights, with a style that will appeal to the American audience. The only blemish on his record was a very competitive loss to former world title holder Viktor Postol. That bout saw Najmitdinov go into the home country of Postol in the Ukraine and drop Postol on two occasions, yet he fell short on the judges' scorecards. Najmitdinov is coming off a first-round stoppage over Giorgi Khutsishvili on October 6, 2019.
"I am looking forward to working with UFC Fight Pass and Darren Davis with Reed Arena. We are very excited to be putting on this show to kick off a holiday weekend. This show promises to feature fan-friendly fights. When Michael Dutchover fights in Texas, it is always a great crowd, and we are excited about his continued ascent up the rankings. We also are looking forward to getting a glimpse of a future player in the heavyweight division in Isaac Munoz Gutierrez. The fans watching in the arena and around the world are in for a terrific night of boxing," said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.
"We are very happy to see the return of Michel Dutchover, and what better place than at the Reed Arena at Texas A&M. Michael will make a run for a world title and this is the best way to get him going," said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing.
“We are thrilled to be hosting this marquee fight with Banner Promotions. Adding to a growing list of exciting events we are bringing to Bryan-College Station, this fight will be one any boxing fan will not want to miss,” says Darren Davis, General Manager of Reed Arena.
“We couldn’t be happier to be working with Banner Promotions, to bring a championship event to a great Texas Arena. Reed Arena is going to be a great new venue for boxing, the Gig’Em spirit will be alive and well," said Daren Libonati of the Libonati Group.
Tickets go on-sale on Thursday, April 8th at 10 AM CT
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Dutchover books fight in College Station, Texas
Memorial Day will see junior welterweight Michael Dutchover in front of his Lone Star State in a UFC Fight Pass show on the campus of Texas A&M University in College Station. A native of Midland, Texas, Dutchover (14-1 with 10 KOs) will battle Mexico's Ivan Leon Benitez (14-4-1 with 6 KOs) in a ten-round bout on Friday, May 28th at Reed Arena. The 23 year-old Dutchover, known as the "West Texas Warrior," has wins over Miguel Cariozza (10-1); Ricardo Lopez (7-1-2); Bergman Aguilar (14-3-1); Rosekie Cristobal (15-3), and, in his last bout, an eight-round unanimous decision over Jorge Marron (18-1).
From Cancun, Benitez is just twenty years old, but is already a six-year professional! He is coming off a draw with undefeated Francisco Javier Lopez Corrales (12-0) on December 8th in Mexico. "I will have a difficult task ahead of me in fighting Dutchover, but May 28th will be my day. I will be prepared to give the fans a great show and to beat my opponent. This is what I work for everyday, and he will not derail my dreams of becoming a future champion," said Benitez.
Dutchover is promoted by Banner Promotions and Thompson Boxing. "In December I was supposed to fight, but I had an injury, and things happen for a reason. I am back in California training and am excited to get back in the ring. There is no place that I would rather fight than in Texas. I will have fans there from Midland and all over the state. This is my fifth year as a professional, and this is the year that I become a contender," said Dutchover.
No bouts are set yet for the undercard, but the plan is for Mexican heavyweight Isaac Munoz Gutierrez to return for the first time since 2019. Gutierrez was a successful amateur who has a record of 17-3-1 including the World Series of Boxing. He has stopped his last six opponents and is coming off a first-round stoppage of Jesus Alberto Torres Martinez back in September 2019...
Seeing action in an eight-round bout will be lightweight, Miguel Maduenoa, a 22 year-old from Orange, California with a record of 22-0 with 20 knockouts. Madueno is a four-year professional who has wins over Cristian Flores (7-1-2); Jesus Rendon (13-1-1), and his last bout, a stoppage of Jesus Quintero Velarde in two rounds on December 18th.
Opening up the broadcast will see Jamshidbek Najmitdinov take part in an eight-round junior welterweight fight. Najmitdinov, of Tashkent, Uzbekistan, has a record of 16-1 with 13 knockouts. Najmitdinov is an eight-year professional who will be making his American debut. Najmitdinov has been in several all-action fights, with a style that will appeal to the American audience. The only blemish on his record was a very competitive loss to former world title holder Viktor Postol. That bout saw Najmitdinov go into the home country of Postol in the Ukraine and drop Postol on two occasions, yet he fell short on the judges' scorecards. Najmitdinov is coming off a first-round stoppage over Giorgi Khutsishvili on October 6, 2019.
"I am looking forward to working with UFC Fight Pass and Darren Davis with Reed Arena. We are very excited to be putting on this show to kick off a holiday weekend. This show promises to feature fan-friendly fights. When Michael Dutchover fights in Texas, it is always a great crowd, and we are excited about his continued ascent up the rankings. We also are looking forward to getting a glimpse of a future player in the heavyweight division in Isaac Munoz Gutierrez. The fans watching in the arena and around the world are in for a terrific night of boxing," said Banner Promotions President, Artie Pelullo.
"We are very happy to see the return of Michel Dutchover, and what better place than at the Reed Arena at Texas A&M. Michael will make a run for a world title and this is the best way to get him going," said Ken Thompson, President of Thompson Boxing.
“We are thrilled to be hosting this marquee fight with Banner Promotions. Adding to a growing list of exciting events we are bringing to Bryan-College Station, this fight will be one any boxing fan will not want to miss,” says Darren Davis, General Manager of Reed Arena.
“We couldn’t be happier to be working with Banner Promotions, to bring a championship event to a great Texas Arena. Reed Arena is going to be a great new venue for boxing, the Gig’Em spirit will be alive and well," said Daren Libonati of the Libonati Group.
Tickets go on-sale on Thursday, April 8th at 10 AM CT
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Catching up with light heavyweight Ahmed Elbiali |
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Hard-punching light heavyweight Ahmed Elbiali [inactive since 2019] has been working with trainer and former super bantamweight champion Clarence “Bones” Adams. The Cairo-born Elbiali (20-1, 17 KOs) relocated from his adopted home in Miami three years ago to work with Adams at his private gym in Las Vegas and, at first, things didn’t go as well as hoped. “Bones’ style took some getting used to,” admits Elbiali. “He’s very direct and it used to hurt my feelings sometimes, but now I know he’s a very realistic guy who just tells it like it is to help you improve. The whole environment in Vegas is different. People in Vegas are not as happy as people in Miami. Everyone who shows up to the gym in Vegas is grumpy. In Miami, the skies are always blue. You go outside in Vegas and its straight smog and heat. Now I get it.”
Once acclimated, Elbiali says the improvements in his technique were astonishing. “I think Bones is a great coach and he’s helped me to improve a lot as both a fighter and a person. We started over from the basics and everything is different now. Bones helped me realize a lot of things. I’m really excited to come back because I have so many new skills to show.”
The 30 year-old Elbiali, who was last seen defeating Bryan Vera by sixth-round TKO in December 2019, says he’s living a clean life and working hard to reach his goal of becoming boxing’s first Egyptian-born world champion. “Being a fighter in Vegas is the best. All these great fighters are helping me. I’ve been sparring with undefeated Russian cruiserweight, Andrey Mangushev, and learning a lot. The whole environment is great.”
With the pandemic sure to wind down eventually, boxing will go back to business as usual with live fans and fight cards all over the world every weekend. Elbiali, who is hoping to return to the ring in June, says he’s waiting until he can unleash his new-and-improved fists on the 175-pound division. “I really love what I do. I can’t wait to get back in there. I am going balls to the walls from now on and leaving nothing to the judges. Like a lot of fighters, I just want to fight. Fighting is our profession, so when we don’t make money we struggle mentally. It doesn’t feel nice as a man to not be where you want to be in life. I can’t say its all about the money though. I want to prove myself and show how much I love what I do.”
Elbiali hopes be back in the ring soon with date and details to be announced shortly.
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Catching up with light heavyweight Ahmed Elbiali
Hard-punching light heavyweight Ahmed Elbiali [inactive since 2019] has been working with trainer and former super bantamweight champion Clarence “Bones” Adams. The Cairo-born Elbiali (20-1, 17 KOs) relocated from his adopted home in Miami three years ago to work with Adams at his private gym in Las Vegas and, at first, things didn’t go as well as hoped. “Bones’ style took some getting used to,” admits Elbiali. “He’s very direct and it used to hurt my feelings sometimes, but now I know he’s a very realistic guy who just tells it like it is to help you improve. The whole environment in Vegas is different. People in Vegas are not as happy as people in Miami. Everyone who shows up to the gym in Vegas is grumpy. In Miami, the skies are always blue. You go outside in Vegas and its straight smog and heat. Now I get it.”
Once acclimated, Elbiali says the improvements in his technique were astonishing. “I think Bones is a great coach and he’s helped me to improve a lot as both a fighter and a person. We started over from the basics and everything is different now. Bones helped me realize a lot of things. I’m really excited to come back because I have so many new skills to show.”
The 30 year-old Elbiali, who was last seen defeating Bryan Vera by sixth-round TKO in December 2019, says he’s living a clean life and working hard to reach his goal of becoming boxing’s first Egyptian-born world champion. “Being a fighter in Vegas is the best. All these great fighters are helping me. I’ve been sparring with undefeated Russian cruiserweight, Andrey Mangushev, and learning a lot. The whole environment is great.”
With the pandemic sure to wind down eventually, boxing will go back to business as usual with live fans and fight cards all over the world every weekend. Elbiali, who is hoping to return to the ring in June, says he’s waiting until he can unleash his new-and-improved fists on the 175-pound division. “I really love what I do. I can’t wait to get back in there. I am going balls to the walls from now on and leaving nothing to the judges. Like a lot of fighters, I just want to fight. Fighting is our profession, so when we don’t make money we struggle mentally. It doesn’t feel nice as a man to not be where you want to be in life. I can’t say its all about the money though. I want to prove myself and show how much I love what I do.”
Elbiali hopes be back in the ring soon with date and details to be announced shortly.
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Introducing female lightweight Jordan Barker-Porter |
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MTK Global announced the signing of (female) lightweight Jordan Barker-Porter ahead of her plans to turn professional. Barker-Porter had a very successful amateur career, winning a gold medal at the Haringey Box Cup in 2019, along with silver medals at the National Championships and the Winter Box Cup. The 26 year-old is also a four-time Tyne Tees & Wear champion. Barker-Porter said: “It’s a dream to sign with MTK Global. I’m so excited to be part of the team and show what I can do. To be part of the same team as big icons such as Tyson Fury, Josh Taylor and Billy Joe Saunders is madness, I have to pinch myself. Coming from a travelling background to see some of those names under the big lights shows that anything is possible with hard work."
She continued, “I come from a family of predominantly males. Both my brothers competed when they were younger but decided it wasn’t for them, so me being the feisty female of the family and knowing there was growing market for females in boxing, I thought I’d step up to the plate and give it a go. My dad coached at a club years ago so he gave me a taste of the medicine and boxing has been in my veins ever since. I’ve had 24 fights, won 18 and fought nationally and internationally. I’ve won several silver medals at national level and gold at the Haringey Box Cup. I’ve won the TTW (Tyne Tees & Wear) title four times and have a belt to keep for good. I’ve been training at a professional gym since November so the transition from amateur to pro has already began. It’s allowed me to really focus on technique and skill and train full time, morning and night. I feel my style will be really well suited in the pros and I’m so excited to show what I’m about now."
Barker-Porter added, “We’re at time now where at least one female fight is on some of these big shows whereas back in the day that was unheard of. Females are getting recognised for their talent and I genuinely can’t wait for my name to be in the mix and inspire the youth after how hard I’ve worked to get to this position. Ideally in the next 12 months id love to have three to four fights so I can showcase my ability and work my way up the ladder. The lightweight division is real tasty with opportunities and I’m ready to grab with both hands.”
MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton added: “It’s fantastic to welcome Jordan Barker-Porter to the team. Women’s boxing is continuing to go from strength to strength and we’re confident that she can become a key part of it. She joins our superb roster of female stars, including world champions Chantelle Cameron, Savannah Marshall, Dina Thorslund and Ibeth Zamora, world title challenger Tasha Jonas, plus the likes of Elhem Mekhaled, Segolene Lefebvre, Ellis Hopkins, Taylah Robertson and Hedda Wolmarans, so we can’t wait to see what Jordan is capable of.”
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Introducing female lightweight Jordan Barker-Porter
MTK Global announced the signing of (female) lightweight Jordan Barker-Porter ahead of her plans to turn professional. Barker-Porter had a very successful amateur career, winning a gold medal at the Haringey Box Cup in 2019, along with silver medals at the National Championships and the Winter Box Cup. The 26 year-old is also a four-time Tyne Tees & Wear champion. Barker-Porter said: “It’s a dream to sign with MTK Global. I’m so excited to be part of the team and show what I can do. To be part of the same team as big icons such as Tyson Fury, Josh Taylor and Billy Joe Saunders is madness, I have to pinch myself. Coming from a travelling background to see some of those names under the big lights shows that anything is possible with hard work."
She continued, “I come from a family of predominantly males. Both my brothers competed when they were younger but decided it wasn’t for them, so me being the feisty female of the family and knowing there was growing market for females in boxing, I thought I’d step up to the plate and give it a go. My dad coached at a club years ago so he gave me a taste of the medicine and boxing has been in my veins ever since. I’ve had 24 fights, won 18 and fought nationally and internationally. I’ve won several silver medals at national level and gold at the Haringey Box Cup. I’ve won the TTW (Tyne Tees & Wear) title four times and have a belt to keep for good. I’ve been training at a professional gym since November so the transition from amateur to pro has already began. It’s allowed me to really focus on technique and skill and train full time, morning and night. I feel my style will be really well suited in the pros and I’m so excited to show what I’m about now."
Barker-Porter added, “We’re at time now where at least one female fight is on some of these big shows whereas back in the day that was unheard of. Females are getting recognised for their talent and I genuinely can’t wait for my name to be in the mix and inspire the youth after how hard I’ve worked to get to this position. Ideally in the next 12 months id love to have three to four fights so I can showcase my ability and work my way up the ladder. The lightweight division is real tasty with opportunities and I’m ready to grab with both hands.”
MTK Global Promoter Lee Eaton added: “It’s fantastic to welcome Jordan Barker-Porter to the team. Women’s boxing is continuing to go from strength to strength and we’re confident that she can become a key part of it. She joins our superb roster of female stars, including world champions Chantelle Cameron, Savannah Marshall, Dina Thorslund and Ibeth Zamora, world title challenger Tasha Jonas, plus the likes of Elhem Mekhaled, Segolene Lefebvre, Ellis Hopkins, Taylah Robertson and Hedda Wolmarans, so we can’t wait to see what Jordan is capable of.”
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Barrientes twins appear in Louis Vuitton photo shoot |
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Angel and Chavez Barrientes, the twin boxing brothers from Las Vegas, have made their way to the fashion world, as the duo are showcased with rapper 21 Savage on the front page of Louis Vuitton’s website. Virgil Abloh, Louis Vuitton’s creative director, created the men’s ‘21 capsule collection, driven by the west coast skate culture in California. The Barrientes Twins, who are of Mexican and Filipino descent, made the cut of over 1,000 other models when auditioning for the shoot. They box under the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) banner and are scheduled to fight on national television sometime in June.
“It’s quite amazing that we were chosen to be part of this historic photo shoot when we auditioned,” said Chavez Barrientes, who along with his twin brother, is only 18-years old. “Louis Vuitton is a global brand so to be featured on their website with 21 Savage is incredible. Our focus remains to become world champions in boxing, but it's nice to have a lucrative modeling career to go alongside with it.”
“I never thought in a million years that I would become a fashion model with my brother,” stated Angel Barrientes with a big smile. “The fact that we got compensated to take some photos is mind boggling, but very cool at the same time. I’m going to take this newfound fame and run with it but remain humble while on the journey.”
"To see my boys on the front page of Louis Vuitton's website with 21 Savage has taken their brand to another level." said Richard Barrientes, father and trainer of the twins. "The photo shoot is trending on social media and they are getting a lot of positive feedback. 21 Savage and Louis Vuitton have over 50 million followers on Instagram so you can imagine the amount of calls I've been getting. This is great for boxing."
“Fighting for the PBC is truly a catalyst to provide opportunities for these young fighters.” stated Bob Santos, who manages the Barrientes twins. “Fighting on a global stage has enabled the Barrientes twins to work with Louis Vuitton, one of the most iconic brands in the world, which will help boxing reach a diverse
multitude of people. Boxing has the potential to be seen by millions of more people because of the twins."
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Barrientes twins appear in Louis Vuitton photo shoot
Angel and Chavez Barrientes, the twin boxing brothers from Las Vegas, have made their way to the fashion world, as the duo are showcased with rapper 21 Savage on the front page of Louis Vuitton’s website. Virgil Abloh, Louis Vuitton’s creative director, created the men’s ‘21 capsule collection, driven by the west coast skate culture in California. The Barrientes Twins, who are of Mexican and Filipino descent, made the cut of over 1,000 other models when auditioning for the shoot. They box under the Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) banner and are scheduled to fight on national television sometime in June.
“It’s quite amazing that we were chosen to be part of this historic photo shoot when we auditioned,” said Chavez Barrientes, who along with his twin brother, is only 18-years old. “Louis Vuitton is a global brand so to be featured on their website with 21 Savage is incredible. Our focus remains to become world champions in boxing, but it's nice to have a lucrative modeling career to go alongside with it.”
“I never thought in a million years that I would become a fashion model with my brother,” stated Angel Barrientes with a big smile. “The fact that we got compensated to take some photos is mind boggling, but very cool at the same time. I’m going to take this newfound fame and run with it but remain humble while on the journey.”
"To see my boys on the front page of Louis Vuitton's website with 21 Savage has taken their brand to another level." said Richard Barrientes, father and trainer of the twins. "The photo shoot is trending on social media and they are getting a lot of positive feedback. 21 Savage and Louis Vuitton have over 50 million followers on Instagram so you can imagine the amount of calls I've been getting. This is great for boxing."
“Fighting for the PBC is truly a catalyst to provide opportunities for these young fighters.” stated Bob Santos, who manages the Barrientes twins. “Fighting on a global stage has enabled the Barrientes twins to work with Louis Vuitton, one of the most iconic brands in the world, which will help boxing reach a diverse
multitude of people. Boxing has the potential to be seen by millions of more people because of the twins."
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Samuel Vargas vows to test Conor Benn on Saturday |
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Welterweight Samuel Vargas has promised to make Conor Benn pay for his “wild” mistakes and says the 24 year-old doesn’t have the experience to deal with him when they meet over twelve rounds this Saturday April 10th, live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and elsewhere. Vargas (31-6-2, 14 KOs) is well known in the UK, having floored former junior welterweight champion Amir Khan before losing on points in a hard-fought battle in September 201. The Canadian-Colombian warrior is no stranger to elite level opposition after sharing the ring with numerous quality operators such as Errol Spence and Danny Garcia.
Undefeated Benn took a significant step-up against Germany’s former IBO champion Sebastian Formella last time out, but 31 year-old Vargas believes he presents a much harder task and is preparing to inflict a first career loss on the youngster. “I have taken this fight very seriously,” said Vargas. “I had a great training camp and I worked my ass off. I’m really focused, and I can’t wait to get in there. This is professional boxing. Everyone is a threat. Everyone. Especially at this level.
“He is a strong young fighter. He’s going to come on strong. He looks physically fit all of the time. He seems very wild and makes mistakes that he has to pay for. We’ll meet in the centre of the ring and we’ll find out what he’s about. I’m expecting him to come to war and that’s what I’m prepared for. I don’t care what he thinks. They have hopes for him over here, I guess. I don’t see it personally. If he’s underestimating me, then the better it is for me. I expect a lot of fans to tune in and watch the fight. It’s going to be a hell of a show. I’m going to bring the heat. He’s going to do whatever he’s able to do. Last time I was here in the UK I came close to closing the show but then I didn’t have enough time left in the round. This time I’m going to bring the same energy and finish the job. I’m going to give Conor a right hand from hell. It would mean a lot to me to win this."
Vargas continued, “That’s part of the plan, taking him into the trenches. We’ve got to break him down and take his soul. We’re going to break him down little by little. He doesn’t have the experience to handle that. He’s got to have the same energy that he has in the first round in the ninth and tenth. We’ll see about that.”
Benn vs. Vargas tops a big night of action April 10th, Watford’s Shannon Courtenay (6-1, 3 KOs) faces Australia’s Ebanie Bridges (5-0, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBA bantamweight title, Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) returns after her win over Hannah Rankin, Glasgow bantamweight Kash Farooq (14-1, 6 KOs) challenges Alexander Espinoza (20-2-2), John ‘The Gentleman’ Hedges (1-0) looks to build on his pro debut win last October and Glasgow heavyweight Nick Campbell makes his professional debut.
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Samuel Vargas vows to test Conor Benn on Saturday
Welterweight Samuel Vargas has promised to make Conor Benn pay for his “wild” mistakes and says the 24 year-old doesn’t have the experience to deal with him when they meet over twelve rounds this Saturday April 10th, live on Sky Sports in the UK and on DAZN in the U.S. and elsewhere. Vargas (31-6-2, 14 KOs) is well known in the UK, having floored former junior welterweight champion Amir Khan before losing on points in a hard-fought battle in September 201. The Canadian-Colombian warrior is no stranger to elite level opposition after sharing the ring with numerous quality operators such as Errol Spence and Danny Garcia.
Undefeated Benn took a significant step-up against Germany’s former IBO champion Sebastian Formella last time out, but 31 year-old Vargas believes he presents a much harder task and is preparing to inflict a first career loss on the youngster. “I have taken this fight very seriously,” said Vargas. “I had a great training camp and I worked my ass off. I’m really focused, and I can’t wait to get in there. This is professional boxing. Everyone is a threat. Everyone. Especially at this level.
“He is a strong young fighter. He’s going to come on strong. He looks physically fit all of the time. He seems very wild and makes mistakes that he has to pay for. We’ll meet in the centre of the ring and we’ll find out what he’s about. I’m expecting him to come to war and that’s what I’m prepared for. I don’t care what he thinks. They have hopes for him over here, I guess. I don’t see it personally. If he’s underestimating me, then the better it is for me. I expect a lot of fans to tune in and watch the fight. It’s going to be a hell of a show. I’m going to bring the heat. He’s going to do whatever he’s able to do. Last time I was here in the UK I came close to closing the show but then I didn’t have enough time left in the round. This time I’m going to bring the same energy and finish the job. I’m going to give Conor a right hand from hell. It would mean a lot to me to win this."
Vargas continued, “That’s part of the plan, taking him into the trenches. We’ve got to break him down and take his soul. We’re going to break him down little by little. He doesn’t have the experience to handle that. He’s got to have the same energy that he has in the first round in the ninth and tenth. We’ll see about that.”
Benn vs. Vargas tops a big night of action April 10th, Watford’s Shannon Courtenay (6-1, 3 KOs) faces Australia’s Ebanie Bridges (5-0, 2 KOs) for the vacant WBA bantamweight title, Hartlepool’s Savannah Marshall (9-0, 7 KOs) returns after her win over Hannah Rankin, Glasgow bantamweight Kash Farooq (14-1, 6 KOs) challenges Alexander Espinoza (20-2-2), John ‘The Gentleman’ Hedges (1-0) looks to build on his pro debut win last October and Glasgow heavyweight Nick Campbell makes his professional debut.
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