Benavidez dominates Plant over 12 rounds |
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David Benavidez W12 Caleb Plant... After a few close rounds, David Benavidez turned up the heat over the second half a super middleweight fight to soundly defeat Caleb Plant by unanimous decision. Benavidez won the battle of former champions by official scores of 115-113, 116-112 and 117-111. He more than doubled Plant in terms of punches landed, 210 to 91 according to Punchstats. With the win in Las Vegas, Benavidez retains the WBC interim title and, more importantly, emerged as the clear #1 contender for undisputed world champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Hopefully, that fight can be made in the fall.
Referee Kenny Bayless was, unfortunately, a big part of the fight. He allowed Plant to do a ridiculous amount of holding. A headbutt opened up a cut on Plant's forehead. Bayless then gave Plant a long breather when he interrupted a favorable sequence for Benavidez in order to have Plant's cut inspected by a doctor. By the eleventh round, things took a savage turn, with Benavidez pummeling a bloodied and exhausted Plant, who could do little except hold. In the waning seconds of round twelve, Plant showed amazing courage, coming forward and landing a few punches despite his poor condition. Plant said afterwards Benavidez was the better man on the night. Despite some nasty pre-fight insults, Benavidez and Plant embraced and ended their feud before leaving the ring.
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Benavidez dominates Plant over 12 rounds
David Benavidez W12 Caleb Plant... After a few close rounds, David Benavidez turned up the heat over the second half a super middleweight fight to soundly defeat Caleb Plant by unanimous decision. Benavidez won the battle of former champions by official scores of 115-113, 116-112 and 117-111. He more than doubled Plant in terms of punches landed, 210 to 91 according to Punchstats. With the win in Las Vegas, Benavidez retains the WBC interim title and, more importantly, emerged as the clear #1 contender for undisputed world champion Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. Hopefully, that fight can be made in the fall.
Referee Kenny Bayless was, unfortunately, a big part of the fight. He allowed Plant to do a ridiculous amount of holding. A headbutt opened up a cut on Plant's forehead. Bayless then gave Plant a long breather when he interrupted a favorable sequence for Benavidez in order to have Plant's cut inspected by a doctor. By the eleventh round, things took a savage turn, with Benavidez pummeling a bloodied and exhausted Plant, who could do little except hold. In the waning seconds of round twelve, Plant showed amazing courage, coming forward and landing a few punches despite his poor condition. Plant said afterwards Benavidez was the better man on the night. Despite some nasty pre-fight insults, Benavidez and Plant embraced and ended their feud before leaving the ring.
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Ramos dominates Spencer |
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Jesus Ramos TKO7Joey Spencer... Jesus Ramos punished and dominated Joey Spencer for nearly seven rounds in Las Vegas. The junior middleweight bout saw a first round knockdown by Ramos. It ended when Spencer's father and chief second, Jason Spencer, stepped up to the ring apron and stopped the fight. Ramos is now 20-0, and the win over the previously undefeated Spencer converts Ramos to a contender in the crowded 154-pound division.
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Ramos dominates Spencer
Jesus Ramos TKO7Joey Spencer... Jesus Ramos punished and dominated Joey Spencer for nearly seven rounds in Las Vegas. The junior middleweight bout saw a first round knockdown by Ramos. It ended when Spencer's father and chief second, Jason Spencer, stepped up to the ring apron and stopped the fight. Ramos is now 20-0, and the win over the previously undefeated Spencer converts Ramos to a contender in the crowded 154-pound division.
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Colbert wins horrendous decision over Valenzuela |
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Chris Colbert W10 Jose Valenzuela... Jose Valenzuela appeared to deal a serious blow to the career of Chris Colbert, mostly dominating Colbert over ten lightweight rounds in Las Vegas on Saturday. Dismayingly, all three official scores went the wrong way, 95-94 for Colbert. The verdict was greeted by vociferous boos from the crowd and outrage from Valenzuela. Showtime's unofffical scorer, Steve Farhood, judged it 96-93 for Valenzuela. "He never hurt me once in this fight... I felt like I put it on him," said Valenzuela in his post-fight interview. It was the second straight loss for Valenzuela who was coming off a loss in his last fight to Edwin De Los Santos. Colbert (16-2) lost to Hector Garcia in last last fight, which took place more than a year ago. (Garcia went on to win the WBA 130-pound title, and Colbert moved up to 135 pounds for this fight. Colbert said he was willing to grant Valenzuela a rematch: "Let's run it back," he said while still in the ring. Valenzuela nearly ended the bout in round one, knocking down Colbert early, and punishing him for the entire three minutes. Colbert survived, but over the first half of the fight had very few positive moments. The sixth round was another brutal one for Colbert, as Valenzuela teed off while Colbert stayed with his back on the ropes. Colbert's left eye began to close, but he managed to survive the attack and actually did pretty well over the last thirty seconds of round six. Colbert continued his good work in round seven. Colbert lost round eight but did well in rounds nine and ten, although he was hurt again just before the final bell. The scorecards were simply terrible and unfair to Valenzuela.
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Colbert wins horrendous decision over Valenzuela
Chris Colbert W10 Jose Valenzuela... Jose Valenzuela appeared to deal a serious blow to the career of Chris Colbert, mostly dominating Colbert over ten lightweight rounds in Las Vegas on Saturday. Dismayingly, all three official scores went the wrong way, 95-94 for Colbert. The verdict was greeted by vociferous boos from the crowd and outrage from Valenzuela. Showtime's unofffical scorer, Steve Farhood, judged it 96-93 for Valenzuela. "He never hurt me once in this fight... I felt like I put it on him," said Valenzuela in his post-fight interview. It was the second straight loss for Valenzuela who was coming off a loss in his last fight to Edwin De Los Santos. Colbert (16-2) lost to Hector Garcia in last last fight, which took place more than a year ago. (Garcia went on to win the WBA 130-pound title, and Colbert moved up to 135 pounds for this fight. Colbert said he was willing to grant Valenzuela a rematch: "Let's run it back," he said while still in the ring. Valenzuela nearly ended the bout in round one, knocking down Colbert early, and punishing him for the entire three minutes. Colbert survived, but over the first half of the fight had very few positive moments. The sixth round was another brutal one for Colbert, as Valenzuela teed off while Colbert stayed with his back on the ropes. Colbert's left eye began to close, but he managed to survive the attack and actually did pretty well over the last thirty seconds of round six. Colbert continued his good work in round seven. Colbert lost round eight but did well in rounds nine and ten, although he was hurt again just before the final bell. The scorecards were simply terrible and unfair to Valenzuela.
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Crowley wins difficult welterweight eliminator |
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Cody Crowley W12 Abel Ramos... The Showtime pay-per-view opener in Las Vegas was a fast-paced and exciting WBC welterweight eliminator between Cody Crowley and Abel Ramos. After twelve rounds of action, the Canadian Crowley was declared the winner by majority decision. The official scores were 114-114, 115-113 and 116-112. According to Punchstats, Crowley landed more punches, 227-164. Afterwards, Crowley, both eyes swollen, shed some tears in memory of his father, who recently committed suicide. Crowley caught a bit of a break in round 11, when he got caught with a hard punch that seemed to cause his glove to touch the canvas. The referee ruled it a knockdown, and the shaken Crowley got a breather. In betweem rounds, however, the Nevada Athletic Commission reviewed the replay and determined that Crowley's glove did not touch the canvas. As a result, the knockdown was cancelled and at least one point was restored to Crowley's score. In the run-up to the fight, Crowley said, “Me and my father were battling mental health issues for a couple years. He had demons that he couldn’t beat and last summer they got the best of him and he took his own life. This fight right now gives me a reason to get up every day and continue pushing forward. Come Saturday, March 25 it’s my 30th birthday, I never thought I’d make it to 30, but thanks to my father, I have.”
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Crowley wins difficult welterweight eliminator
Cody Crowley W12 Abel Ramos... The Showtime pay-per-view opener in Las Vegas was a fast-paced and exciting WBC welterweight eliminator between Cody Crowley and Abel Ramos. After twelve rounds of action, the Canadian Crowley was declared the winner by majority decision. The official scores were 114-114, 115-113 and 116-112. According to Punchstats, Crowley landed more punches, 227-164. Afterwards, Crowley, both eyes swollen, shed some tears in memory of his father, who recently committed suicide. Crowley caught a bit of a break in round 11, when he got caught with a hard punch that seemed to cause his glove to touch the canvas. The referee ruled it a knockdown, and the shaken Crowley got a breather. In betweem rounds, however, the Nevada Athletic Commission reviewed the replay and determined that Crowley's glove did not touch the canvas. As a result, the knockdown was cancelled and at least one point was restored to Crowley's score. In the run-up to the fight, Crowley said, “Me and my father were battling mental health issues for a couple years. He had demons that he couldn’t beat and last summer they got the best of him and he took his own life. This fight right now gives me a reason to get up every day and continue pushing forward. Come Saturday, March 25 it’s my 30th birthday, I never thought I’d make it to 30, but thanks to my father, I have.”
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Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions |
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Here are Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions:
David Benavidez (26-0) vs. Caleb Plant (22-1) (WBC super middleweight interim title) … Prediction: Benavidez by late knockout;
Lawrence Okolie (18-0) vs. David Light (20-0) (WBO cruiserweight title) … Prediction: Okolie by mid- to late-round KO;
Yokasta Valle (27-2) vs. Jessica Basulto Salazar (11-0) (WBO & IBF minimumweight titles) … Prediction: Valle by unanimous decision;
Seniesa Estrada (23-0) vs. Tina Rupprecht (12-0-1) (WBC & WBA minimumweight titles) … Prediction: Estrada by unanimous decision;
Asley Gonzalez Macias (15-2) vs. Lourdes Juarez (34-3) II (WBC super flyweight title) … Prediction: Macias by split decision;
Jose Carlos Ramirez (27-1) vs. Richard Commey (30-4-1) (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Ramirez by unanimous decision;
Jose Zepeda (36-3) vs. Neeraj Goyat (17-3-2) (Super Lightweights) … Prediction: Zepeda by early knockout;
Cody Crowley (21-0) vs. Abel Ramos (27-5-2) (WBC welterweight eliminator) … Prediction: Crowley by unanimous decision;
Jesus Alejandro Ramos (19-0) vs. Joey Spencer (16-0) (junior middleweights) … Prediction: Ramos by unanimous decision; and
Chris Colbert (16-1) vs. Jose Valenzuela (12-1) (lightweights) … Prediction: Colbert by majority decision.
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Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions
Here are Boxingtalk's Saturday fight predictions:
David Benavidez (26-0) vs. Caleb Plant (22-1) (WBC super middleweight interim title) … Prediction: Benavidez by late knockout;
Lawrence Okolie (18-0) vs. David Light (20-0) (WBO cruiserweight title) … Prediction: Okolie by mid- to late-round KO;
Yokasta Valle (27-2) vs. Jessica Basulto Salazar (11-0) (WBO & IBF minimumweight titles) … Prediction: Valle by unanimous decision;
Seniesa Estrada (23-0) vs. Tina Rupprecht (12-0-1) (WBC & WBA minimumweight titles) … Prediction: Estrada by unanimous decision;
Asley Gonzalez Macias (15-2) vs. Lourdes Juarez (34-3) II (WBC super flyweight title) … Prediction: Macias by split decision;
Jose Carlos Ramirez (27-1) vs. Richard Commey (30-4-1) (junior welterweights) … Prediction: Ramirez by unanimous decision;
Jose Zepeda (36-3) vs. Neeraj Goyat (17-3-2) (Super Lightweights) … Prediction: Zepeda by early knockout;
Cody Crowley (21-0) vs. Abel Ramos (27-5-2) (WBC welterweight eliminator) … Prediction: Crowley by unanimous decision;
Jesus Alejandro Ramos (19-0) vs. Joey Spencer (16-0) (junior middleweights) … Prediction: Ramos by unanimous decision; and
Chris Colbert (16-1) vs. Jose Valenzuela (12-1) (lightweights) … Prediction: Colbert by majority decision.
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Weigh-in report from Fresno, CA |
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Here are the boxers' weights for Top Rank's ESPN show on Saturday in Fresno, California:
Jose Ramirez 140 pounds vs. Richard Commey 140
(WBC junior welterweight eliminator — 12 rounds);
Seniesa Estrada 104.2 vs. Tina Rupprecht 104.8
(WBA / WBC minimumweight world titles — 10 rounds);
Antonio Mireles 265.4 vs. Patrick Mailata 321.4
(heavyweights — 6 rounds)
The above three fights will be broadcast on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ starting at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Raymond Muratalla 136.6 vs. Humberto Galindo 136
(lightweights— 10 rounds)
Charlie Sheehy 134.8 vs. Angel Rebollar 133.4
(lightweights— 6 rounds);
Jessie James Guerrero 109 vs. Eduardo Alvarez 108.6
(light flyweights — 4 rounds);
Ricardo Ruvalcaba 140.8 vs. Marco Antonio Cardenas 140.4
(junior welterweights — 6 rounds); and
Subaru Murata 121.6 vs. Jose Negrete 121.4
(junior featherweights — 4 rounds).
The above five fights will be shown on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
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Weigh-in report from Fresno, CA
Here are the boxers' weights for Top Rank's ESPN show on Saturday in Fresno, California:
Jose Ramirez 140 pounds vs. Richard Commey 140
(WBC junior welterweight eliminator — 12 rounds);
Seniesa Estrada 104.2 vs. Tina Rupprecht 104.8
(WBA / WBC minimumweight world titles — 10 rounds);
Antonio Mireles 265.4 vs. Patrick Mailata 321.4
(heavyweights — 6 rounds)
The above three fights will be broadcast on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ starting at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.
Raymond Muratalla 136.6 vs. Humberto Galindo 136
(lightweights— 10 rounds)
Charlie Sheehy 134.8 vs. Angel Rebollar 133.4
(lightweights— 6 rounds);
Jessie James Guerrero 109 vs. Eduardo Alvarez 108.6
(light flyweights — 4 rounds);
Ricardo Ruvalcaba 140.8 vs. Marco Antonio Cardenas 140.4
(junior welterweights — 6 rounds); and
Subaru Murata 121.6 vs. Jose Negrete 121.4
(junior featherweights — 4 rounds).
The above five fights will be shown on ESPN+ starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
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Wassim Chellan wins South African thriller |
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Wassim Chellan W10 Lybon Ntshani.... In the main event atthe World Boxing Federation convention in Cape Town, South Africa, local star Wassim Chellan won an exciting welterweight battle against countryman Lybon Ntshani. In a thriller at the packed Sunningdale Sports Complex, the fight was non-stop action from first to last bell with both fighters throwing every punch with the intent to knock the other man out. Chellan was the sharper boxer, and his incredible worrate won the majority of the rounds. In the end, he won a deserved unanimous decision by scores of 97-93 (twice) and 98-92. Chellan remains undefeated at 7-0, and looks like someone to look out for in the future. Ntshani drops to a very deceiving 4-3-1. The certain candidate for WBF Fight of the Year was a fitting climax to the WBF Convention, with delegates from all over the world at ringside and officiating the fights on a great card promoted by Jackie Brice Boxing Promotions.
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Wassim Chellan wins South African thriller
Wassim Chellan W10 Lybon Ntshani.... In the main event atthe World Boxing Federation convention in Cape Town, South Africa, local star Wassim Chellan won an exciting welterweight battle against countryman Lybon Ntshani. In a thriller at the packed Sunningdale Sports Complex, the fight was non-stop action from first to last bell with both fighters throwing every punch with the intent to knock the other man out. Chellan was the sharper boxer, and his incredible worrate won the majority of the rounds. In the end, he won a deserved unanimous decision by scores of 97-93 (twice) and 98-92. Chellan remains undefeated at 7-0, and looks like someone to look out for in the future. Ntshani drops to a very deceiving 4-3-1. The certain candidate for WBF Fight of the Year was a fitting climax to the WBF Convention, with delegates from all over the world at ringside and officiating the fights on a great card promoted by Jackie Brice Boxing Promotions.
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas: Plant and Benavidez make weight |
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Undefeated WBC interim super middleweight champion David “Mexican Monster” Benavídez, and the former IBF champion Caleb Plant finally meet today (Saturday) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The 25 year-old Benavídez (26-0, 23 KOs) became the youngest 168-pound champion at just 20 years old when he defeated Ronald Gavril via split decision for the vacant WBC title in 2017. He's a Phoenix fighter who now lives and trains in the Seattle area. Plant (22-1, 13 KOs) lost to Saul "Canelo" Alvarez but in his most recent fight showed great power, defeating former champion Anthony Dirrell in the ninth, with a one punch finish. Both men successfully passed the official weigh-in, Benavidez at 166.7 pounds, Plant at 167.2.
As for the other boxers competing on the pay-per-view telecast: Jesus “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer, two undefeated boxers who meet in the co-feature, both weighed in at 153.25. Chris “Primetime” Colbert outweighed Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela by a half a pound, 134.5 to 134.Welterweights Cody Crowley and Abel Ramos, who square off in the pay-per-view telecast opener, came in at 145.25 and 146 respectively.
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas: Plant and Benavidez make weight
Undefeated WBC interim super middleweight champion David “Mexican Monster” Benavídez, and the former IBF champion Caleb Plant finally meet today (Saturday) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The 25 year-old Benavídez (26-0, 23 KOs) became the youngest 168-pound champion at just 20 years old when he defeated Ronald Gavril via split decision for the vacant WBC title in 2017. He's a Phoenix fighter who now lives and trains in the Seattle area. Plant (22-1, 13 KOs) lost to Saul "Canelo" Alvarez but in his most recent fight showed great power, defeating former champion Anthony Dirrell in the ninth, with a one punch finish. Both men successfully passed the official weigh-in, Benavidez at 166.7 pounds, Plant at 167.2.
As for the other boxers competing on the pay-per-view telecast: Jesus “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer, two undefeated boxers who meet in the co-feature, both weighed in at 153.25. Chris “Primetime” Colbert outweighed Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela by a half a pound, 134.5 to 134.Welterweights Cody Crowley and Abel Ramos, who square off in the pay-per-view telecast opener, came in at 145.25 and 146 respectively.
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Team Combat preview: Las Vegas vs. Philly |
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Team Combat League today unveiled rosters for the Las Vegas Hustle, coached by Dewey Cooper, and Philadelphia Smoke, coached by Lando Rosa. Both teams will do battle on the second night of Team Combat League on March 31st at the Mohegan Sun Expo Center in Connecticut. Each team carries a roster of 18 fighters across 6 weight classes. This is arguably the most anticipated match-up of the opening week, as the rosters include two boxerswho could be stars in the light heavyweight division for the next decade, 19 year-old Sam Arnold Jr. (8-0) of Las Vegas and Philly native Atif Olbertin (8-0). Appearing on the roster of Las Vegas is heavyweight Cassius Chaney. One major question is will Philadelphia have an answer for the dual threat of lightweight James Earle and Deonte Brown of Las Vegas, with a combined record of 25-0. Las Vegas also boasts familiar names Ravshan Hudaynazarov and Lannell Bellows at middleweight and light heavyweight, respectively.
“We are excited to match our skills against a team with seasoned pros,” stated Philly coach Lando Rosa. “At the same time, however, Philly is a fight town, and our fighters are of a different caliber. We expect the one round format to be ideal for our tough as nails Philly fighters.”
“All credit to Philly, it is a tough fight town but Las Vegas is the mecca of boxing," Las Vegas coach Dewey Cooper answered. "We have attracted a talent level that reflects the unique standing of Las Vegas in the combat sports world and the results will reflect that.”
Las Vegas Hustle Team Roster
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Florencia Belen
Kylie Fulmer
Male Lightweight 135lbs
James Earle
Deonte Brown
Sha’Rhod Williams
Male Welterweight 147lbs
Ronnie Austin
Sanjabek Rahkmanov
Allen Medina
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Ravshan Hudaynazarov
Daquan Wyatt
Johnny Niccola Tapia
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Sam Arnold Jr
Mykelle Henderson
Lanell Bellows
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Skylar Lacy
Giovanni Scuderi
Cassius Chaney
Philadelphia Smoke Roster
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Kathleen Sterling
Tai Emery
Emonie Cheatham
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Luis Melendez
Frank Zalidar
Juan Marrero
Male Welterweight 147lbs
James Bernadine
Akeem Cheatham
Maximillion Arredon
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Oluwafemi Oyelele
Andrew Yates
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Atif Olberton
Khainell Wheeler
Jaivon Cardinal
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Mike Hilton
Maurice Cheatham
Ryan Diaz
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Team Combat preview: Las Vegas vs. Philly
Team Combat League today unveiled rosters for the Las Vegas Hustle, coached by Dewey Cooper, and Philadelphia Smoke, coached by Lando Rosa. Both teams will do battle on the second night of Team Combat League on March 31st at the Mohegan Sun Expo Center in Connecticut. Each team carries a roster of 18 fighters across 6 weight classes. This is arguably the most anticipated match-up of the opening week, as the rosters include two boxerswho could be stars in the light heavyweight division for the next decade, 19 year-old Sam Arnold Jr. (8-0) of Las Vegas and Philly native Atif Olbertin (8-0). Appearing on the roster of Las Vegas is heavyweight Cassius Chaney. One major question is will Philadelphia have an answer for the dual threat of lightweight James Earle and Deonte Brown of Las Vegas, with a combined record of 25-0. Las Vegas also boasts familiar names Ravshan Hudaynazarov and Lannell Bellows at middleweight and light heavyweight, respectively.
“We are excited to match our skills against a team with seasoned pros,” stated Philly coach Lando Rosa. “At the same time, however, Philly is a fight town, and our fighters are of a different caliber. We expect the one round format to be ideal for our tough as nails Philly fighters.”
“All credit to Philly, it is a tough fight town but Las Vegas is the mecca of boxing," Las Vegas coach Dewey Cooper answered. "We have attracted a talent level that reflects the unique standing of Las Vegas in the combat sports world and the results will reflect that.”
Las Vegas Hustle Team Roster
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Florencia Belen
Kylie Fulmer
Male Lightweight 135lbs
James Earle
Deonte Brown
Sha’Rhod Williams
Male Welterweight 147lbs
Ronnie Austin
Sanjabek Rahkmanov
Allen Medina
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Ravshan Hudaynazarov
Daquan Wyatt
Johnny Niccola Tapia
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Sam Arnold Jr
Mykelle Henderson
Lanell Bellows
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Skylar Lacy
Giovanni Scuderi
Cassius Chaney
Philadelphia Smoke Roster
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Kathleen Sterling
Tai Emery
Emonie Cheatham
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Luis Melendez
Frank Zalidar
Juan Marrero
Male Welterweight 147lbs
James Bernadine
Akeem Cheatham
Maximillion Arredon
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Oluwafemi Oyelele
Andrew Yates
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Atif Olberton
Khainell Wheeler
Jaivon Cardinal
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Mike Hilton
Maurice Cheatham
Ryan Diaz
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Buatsi to face Stepien in battle of undefeateds |
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Boxxer has a main event scheduled for its show booked for Saturday, May 6th at the Resorts World Arena, in Birmingham, England. Newly-announced Boxxer signee, Joshua Buatsi (16-0, 13 KOs), will face Pawel Stepien (18-0-1, 12 KO’s) in the headline bout on the day King Charles III will be coronated. Buatsi, the former British light heavyweight champion, has not fought since late May of 2022. Stepien last fought in August. The draw on his record came against Marek Matyja (whose current record is 20-4-2) in 2019 but was avenged in a 2020 rematch.
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Buatsi to face Stepien in battle of undefeateds
Boxxer has a main event scheduled for its show booked for Saturday, May 6th at the Resorts World Arena, in Birmingham, England. Newly-announced Boxxer signee, Joshua Buatsi (16-0, 13 KOs), will face Pawel Stepien (18-0-1, 12 KO’s) in the headline bout on the day King Charles III will be coronated. Buatsi, the former British light heavyweight champion, has not fought since late May of 2022. Stepien last fought in August. The draw on his record came against Marek Matyja (whose current record is 20-4-2) in 2019 but was avenged in a 2020 rematch.
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Weigh-in report from Manchester, UK |
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WBO cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie and mandatory contender David Light of New Zealand both made weight for Saturday's title bout in Manchester, England. Okolie came in right at the division limit of 200 pounds, while Light was a bit lighter at 198 pounds, 5 ounces. Light boasts a pro record of 20-0 and Okolie, though listed as undefeated, is more accurately 20-1 including three pro bouts in the World Series of Boxing. The fight will be aired in the United States on Pro Box TV.
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Weigh-in report from Manchester, UK
WBO cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie and mandatory contender David Light of New Zealand both made weight for Saturday's title bout in Manchester, England. Okolie came in right at the division limit of 200 pounds, while Light was a bit lighter at 198 pounds, 5 ounces. Light boasts a pro record of 20-0 and Okolie, though listed as undefeated, is more accurately 20-1 including three pro bouts in the World Series of Boxing. The fight will be aired in the United States on Pro Box TV.
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Mbilli graduates to contender status with win over Gongora |
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Christian Mbilli W10 Carlos Góngora... French super middleweight hopeful Christian Mbilli took a big step forward, as he fought respected Carlos Góngora for ten rounds and won by unanimous decision at the Casino de Montreal in the province of Quebec, Canada, on Thursday. The judges’ scorecards showed Mbili's dominance with scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93, but the fight had a lot of two-way action and put a big physical demand for both fighters. It was not an easy fight for the winner. Mbilli met a strong Ecuadorian who was aggressive throughout the fight, and he was forced to deal with a high volume of punches. Mbilli’s ability to throw non-stop punches of his own was essential to taking the victory. Gongora, the former IBO champion, now has a record of 21-2. Mbili is now 27-0 including the World Series of Boxing.
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Mbilli graduates to contender status with win over Gongora
Christian Mbilli W10 Carlos Góngora... French super middleweight hopeful Christian Mbilli took a big step forward, as he fought respected Carlos Góngora for ten rounds and won by unanimous decision at the Casino de Montreal in the province of Quebec, Canada, on Thursday. The judges’ scorecards showed Mbili's dominance with scores of 99-91, 98-92 and 97-93, but the fight had a lot of two-way action and put a big physical demand for both fighters. It was not an easy fight for the winner. Mbilli met a strong Ecuadorian who was aggressive throughout the fight, and he was forced to deal with a high volume of punches. Mbilli’s ability to throw non-stop punches of his own was essential to taking the victory. Gongora, the former IBO champion, now has a record of 21-2. Mbili is now 27-0 including the World Series of Boxing.
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Benavidez says he will break Plant's jaw tomorrow |
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Super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavídez (pictured) and Caleb Plant stated their intention to settle their rivalry emphatically during Thursday’s final press conference before they meet for Benavidez’s WBC interim super middleweight title on Showtime pay-per-view this Saturday, March 25th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Here is what the two former title holders had to say Thursday from KÀ Theatre at MGM Grand:
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“I’m gonna break Caleb’s jaw on Saturday night, by the sixth round.
“I’ve been working extremely hard and I’m super ready. All the talk is done. I see Caleb has been doing that grave digging gesture, but he’s digging his own grave. We’re gonna see what that chin is like on Saturday.
“We worked so hard. I’m definitely the harder puncher. I’ve had this power. I’ve just tweaked it and now I’m even stronger. This is a boxer versus a pressure fighter. We’re coming out on top.
“Every time he fights a real true super middleweight, he gets hurt. He’s gonna be in there with the hardest hitting and most accurate fighter in the weight class. We’re gonna see what’s up.
“I gave him all of my attention. Back in the day I hit hard, but I didn’t really train that hard. Now that I’ve really prepared myself, I’m really dangerous and he should be worried. He definitely gave me the extra motivation because I really don’t like this guy and I want to shut him up. I’m definitely going to be pushing for the knockout every single round.
“Caleb is a good boxer with speed who moves around well. I’ve hurt everyone I’ve gotten in the ring with, and I can’t say the same for him. I guarantee I’m gonna hurt him.
“I just told him I was going to break his jaw. You know how it goes between me and Caleb Plant. I really don’t like that guy at all…This is definitely the grudge match that everybody wants to see.
“Caleb Plant doesn’t like me and I don’t like him, but it’s a classic fight between a really good boxer and a really good puncher. He’s going to be running all night and it’s going to be a cat and mouse game for me. I definitely have to be on my p’s and q’s.
“The winner is right there in position to fight for all the belts. But I’m not worried about anything else except this fight. I have to win this fight before I can get where I want to go.”
CALEB PLANT
“The fans are going to see me get my hand raised. That’s what I’m guaranteeing.
“I appreciate everyone showing up today. We’re gonna put on a big fight Saturday. That’s what boxing needs and what the sport is all about.
“I’ve worked extremely hard for this fight. I don’t care if he’s already on weight. That’s what you’re supposed to do. Welcome to the club.
“You got your newfound muscles that you’ve been showing off all week. Welcome to the club. I don’t need the right opponent in front of me to start working hard. I’ve been this disciplined and I’ve walked the straight line. I’ve been doing it since I was a little kid.
“You have a real one in front of you on Saturday. I’m no blown up middleweight, I’m the real deal. You’re gonna see.”
“I feel I’m the better boxer, I have the better IQ and I have more experience. I have the better pedigree and it’s gonna show on Saturday night.
“I’m one of the best in the world at what I do. We’ve yet to see if he can perform at this level, but we’re gonna find out on Saturday.
“David is a good fighter, and he knows I’m a good fighter too. I’m not interested in fighting bums. I want to fight good fighters for the fans and for my legacy.
“The winner of this fight is right there at the top. Canelo has that spot right now and I’m super motivated for this fight so that I can eventually right that wrong. First, I’m gonna handle business on Saturday night.”
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Benavidez says he will break Plant's jaw tomorrow
Super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavídez (pictured) and Caleb Plant stated their intention to settle their rivalry emphatically during Thursday’s final press conference before they meet for Benavidez’s WBC interim super middleweight title on Showtime pay-per-view this Saturday, March 25th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Here is what the two former title holders had to say Thursday from KÀ Theatre at MGM Grand:
DAVID BENAVIDEZ
“I’m gonna break Caleb’s jaw on Saturday night, by the sixth round.
“I’ve been working extremely hard and I’m super ready. All the talk is done. I see Caleb has been doing that grave digging gesture, but he’s digging his own grave. We’re gonna see what that chin is like on Saturday.
“We worked so hard. I’m definitely the harder puncher. I’ve had this power. I’ve just tweaked it and now I’m even stronger. This is a boxer versus a pressure fighter. We’re coming out on top.
“Every time he fights a real true super middleweight, he gets hurt. He’s gonna be in there with the hardest hitting and most accurate fighter in the weight class. We’re gonna see what’s up.
“I gave him all of my attention. Back in the day I hit hard, but I didn’t really train that hard. Now that I’ve really prepared myself, I’m really dangerous and he should be worried. He definitely gave me the extra motivation because I really don’t like this guy and I want to shut him up. I’m definitely going to be pushing for the knockout every single round.
“Caleb is a good boxer with speed who moves around well. I’ve hurt everyone I’ve gotten in the ring with, and I can’t say the same for him. I guarantee I’m gonna hurt him.
“I just told him I was going to break his jaw. You know how it goes between me and Caleb Plant. I really don’t like that guy at all…This is definitely the grudge match that everybody wants to see.
“Caleb Plant doesn’t like me and I don’t like him, but it’s a classic fight between a really good boxer and a really good puncher. He’s going to be running all night and it’s going to be a cat and mouse game for me. I definitely have to be on my p’s and q’s.
“The winner is right there in position to fight for all the belts. But I’m not worried about anything else except this fight. I have to win this fight before I can get where I want to go.”
CALEB PLANT
“The fans are going to see me get my hand raised. That’s what I’m guaranteeing.
“I appreciate everyone showing up today. We’re gonna put on a big fight Saturday. That’s what boxing needs and what the sport is all about.
“I’ve worked extremely hard for this fight. I don’t care if he’s already on weight. That’s what you’re supposed to do. Welcome to the club.
“You got your newfound muscles that you’ve been showing off all week. Welcome to the club. I don’t need the right opponent in front of me to start working hard. I’ve been this disciplined and I’ve walked the straight line. I’ve been doing it since I was a little kid.
“You have a real one in front of you on Saturday. I’m no blown up middleweight, I’m the real deal. You’re gonna see.”
“I feel I’m the better boxer, I have the better IQ and I have more experience. I have the better pedigree and it’s gonna show on Saturday night.
“I’m one of the best in the world at what I do. We’ve yet to see if he can perform at this level, but we’re gonna find out on Saturday.
“David is a good fighter, and he knows I’m a good fighter too. I’m not interested in fighting bums. I want to fight good fighters for the fans and for my legacy.
“The winner of this fight is right there at the top. Canelo has that spot right now and I’m super motivated for this fight so that I can eventually right that wrong. First, I’m gonna handle business on Saturday night.”
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Commey to face Ramirez in Fresno on Saturday |
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Top Rank on ESPN will deliver a tripleheader this Saturday at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. In the main event, former two-belt junior welterweight champion Jose Ramirez (27-1, 17 KOs) takes on former IBF lightweight champion Richard “RC” Commey (pictured, 30-4-1, 27 KOs) in a twelve-round junior welterweight showdown. In the co-feature, WBA minimumweight champion Seniesa Estrada (23-0, 9 KOs) will face WBC champion Tina Rupprecht (12-0-1, 3 KOs) in a ten-round unification fight. In the six-round heavyweight ESPN-televised opener, Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (6-0, 6 KOs) battles Patrick Mailata (6-1, 3 KOs) at heavyweight. Ramirez-Commey, Estrada-Rupprecht and Mireles-Mailata will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. At Thursday's press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.
Jose Ramirez
“It's always an honor for me to fight here in Fresno in front of the people who saw me grow up as a fighter. I hope to go out there on Saturday to showcase my talent in front of the people who love me the most.”
“I’ve experienced being at the top with people praising me and me being ranked at No. 1. Then, I became unified world champion when I beat Maurice Hooker. Then, all of a sudden after one loss, people started to walk away from that. But I’m just blessed that I have a beautiful family, a beautiful team, and a wonderful promotional company. That’s all I need. So, I found myself, and I realized who I am. I feel like I’m ready to show that lion that we all saw before I started getting distracted with some of the stuff that comes with being at the top. Now it’s time for me to work.”
“We’re focused on Richard Commey. This is a fight that is going to deliver a lot of excitement on Saturday.”
Richard Commey
“I’m always excited to get back in the ring. This is what I do. It’s going to be an interesting fight on Saturday. I really want to become a two-time world champion, so I’m coming strong this Saturday.”
“Like Ramirez said, he’s got the ‘fire’ back in him. So, I think he really wants to get back to the top. Just like me.”
“It’s always good to represent people, especially when those people don’t have a lot of eyes on them. So, to be the focal point and represent them is an amazing feeling.”
Seniesa Estrada
“I’m so excited. This is the moment that I’ve dreamed of since I was seven years old. It’s crazy to think about how far I’ve come in this sport and how far this sport has come for women. Who would have thought that a little girl from East L.A. would be unifying titles on ESPN? It’s insane to think about how far I’ve come, and I’m just happy to represent all women in sport on Saturday night.”
“I expect Rupprecht to come in there at 100%. I expect her to go in there to win. She’s coming to win. She’s a good fighter. She’s a tough fighter. But I know that I’m different. I’m special, and I’m going to show that on Saturday.”
"I’ve been wanting to make the fight against Yokasta Valle. But this is the first step in making that fight happen. I have to beat Tina to fight Valle for the undisputed championship.”
Tina Rupprecht
“I’m very happy to be here. I’m happy to have my first fight in the U.S. I’m excited, and I’m ready to fight. It’s a big honor to fight for both titles. This is always what I wanted. And on Saturday you will see the best version of Tina.”
“Of course, I have watched her fight. But I’m not the kind of fighter who only focuses only on the opponent’s style. I also focus on myself. You will see on Saturday.”
Antonio Mireles
“I’m very excited. I knew this would happen. I just didn’t know it would happen now. It’s going to be nice to finally fight in front of a packed crowd on ESPN. It’s crazy that it’s been over a year since I turned pro. It shows how fast time goes by. But compared to where I was last year, I just feel like a completely different fighter. I’ve improved so much. But, I’m also more confident in my abilities.”
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Commey to face Ramirez in Fresno on Saturday
Top Rank on ESPN will deliver a tripleheader this Saturday at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. In the main event, former two-belt junior welterweight champion Jose Ramirez (27-1, 17 KOs) takes on former IBF lightweight champion Richard “RC” Commey (pictured, 30-4-1, 27 KOs) in a twelve-round junior welterweight showdown. In the co-feature, WBA minimumweight champion Seniesa Estrada (23-0, 9 KOs) will face WBC champion Tina Rupprecht (12-0-1, 3 KOs) in a ten-round unification fight. In the six-round heavyweight ESPN-televised opener, Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles (6-0, 6 KOs) battles Patrick Mailata (6-1, 3 KOs) at heavyweight. Ramirez-Commey, Estrada-Rupprecht and Mireles-Mailata will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. At Thursday's press conference, this is what the fighters had to say.
Jose Ramirez
“It's always an honor for me to fight here in Fresno in front of the people who saw me grow up as a fighter. I hope to go out there on Saturday to showcase my talent in front of the people who love me the most.”
“I’ve experienced being at the top with people praising me and me being ranked at No. 1. Then, I became unified world champion when I beat Maurice Hooker. Then, all of a sudden after one loss, people started to walk away from that. But I’m just blessed that I have a beautiful family, a beautiful team, and a wonderful promotional company. That’s all I need. So, I found myself, and I realized who I am. I feel like I’m ready to show that lion that we all saw before I started getting distracted with some of the stuff that comes with being at the top. Now it’s time for me to work.”
“We’re focused on Richard Commey. This is a fight that is going to deliver a lot of excitement on Saturday.”
Richard Commey
“I’m always excited to get back in the ring. This is what I do. It’s going to be an interesting fight on Saturday. I really want to become a two-time world champion, so I’m coming strong this Saturday.”
“Like Ramirez said, he’s got the ‘fire’ back in him. So, I think he really wants to get back to the top. Just like me.”
“It’s always good to represent people, especially when those people don’t have a lot of eyes on them. So, to be the focal point and represent them is an amazing feeling.”
Seniesa Estrada
“I’m so excited. This is the moment that I’ve dreamed of since I was seven years old. It’s crazy to think about how far I’ve come in this sport and how far this sport has come for women. Who would have thought that a little girl from East L.A. would be unifying titles on ESPN? It’s insane to think about how far I’ve come, and I’m just happy to represent all women in sport on Saturday night.”
“I expect Rupprecht to come in there at 100%. I expect her to go in there to win. She’s coming to win. She’s a good fighter. She’s a tough fighter. But I know that I’m different. I’m special, and I’m going to show that on Saturday.”
"I’ve been wanting to make the fight against Yokasta Valle. But this is the first step in making that fight happen. I have to beat Tina to fight Valle for the undisputed championship.”
Tina Rupprecht
“I’m very happy to be here. I’m happy to have my first fight in the U.S. I’m excited, and I’m ready to fight. It’s a big honor to fight for both titles. This is always what I wanted. And on Saturday you will see the best version of Tina.”
“Of course, I have watched her fight. But I’m not the kind of fighter who only focuses only on the opponent’s style. I also focus on myself. You will see on Saturday.”
Antonio Mireles
“I’m very excited. I knew this would happen. I just didn’t know it would happen now. It’s going to be nice to finally fight in front of a packed crowd on ESPN. It’s crazy that it’s been over a year since I turned pro. It shows how fast time goes by. But compared to where I was last year, I just feel like a completely different fighter. I’ve improved so much. But, I’m also more confident in my abilities.”
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Ex-heavyweight Dave Zyglewicz passes away |
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The Times Union reports that former heavyweight Dave "Ziggy" Zyglewicz died earlier this week. He was 79 years old. In 1969, Zyglewicz challenged Joe Frazier for the heavyweight championship. Zyglewicz came out bombing and landed a couple of punches, but he got knocked out in about ninety seconds by Frazier's renowned left hook. However, Zyglewicz became friends with Frazier, who later visited Zyglewicz's bar in Watervliet, New York. The former foes also went to Saratoga Race Course together. Zyglewicz never had any other really big fights but left the sport with a record of 32-4. He died the day before a street in his hometown was named after him. Boxingtalk sends its sympathies to the friends and family of Dave Zyglewicz.
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Ex-heavyweight Dave Zyglewicz passes away
The Times Union reports that former heavyweight Dave "Ziggy" Zyglewicz died earlier this week. He was 79 years old. In 1969, Zyglewicz challenged Joe Frazier for the heavyweight championship. Zyglewicz came out bombing and landed a couple of punches, but he got knocked out in about ninety seconds by Frazier's renowned left hook. However, Zyglewicz became friends with Frazier, who later visited Zyglewicz's bar in Watervliet, New York. The former foes also went to Saratoga Race Course together. Zyglewicz never had any other really big fights but left the sport with a record of 32-4. He died the day before a street in his hometown was named after him. Boxingtalk sends its sympathies to the friends and family of Dave Zyglewicz.
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Presser quotes from Saturday's PPV undercard |
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On Thursday, the final press conference was held for the big Showtime pay-per-view show scheduled for tomorrow (March 25th) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Besides the two main even boxers (David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant), the press conference featured the other boxers competing on the pay-per-view telecast: Jesus “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer, two undefeated boxers who meet in the co-feature, Chris “Primetime” Colbert and Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela, who duel in a lightweight showdown, and welterweights Cody Crowley and Abel Ramos, who square off in the pay-per-view telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Here is what the undercard boxers had to say Thursday from KÀ Theatre at MGM Grand:
JESUS RAMOS JR.
“I took this fight because I want respect. I want people to know that I’m here. I’m coming to make a statement at 154 pounds. Whoever wins this fight catapults themselves to the next level. That’s what I’m here for.
“I think we’re both good boxers and it could definitely go the distance, but if we really want to prove something, we have to get the stoppage.
“He’s supposed to be confident, but none of our talk up here matters once that bell rings. He’s gotta show it to me and prove to me what he can do. I’m ready for this moment.
“I have a lot of things that I haven’t shown or haven’t displayed because I haven’t had to yet. I hope that Joey Spencer brings that out of me.
“This is gonna be a great fight. We’re both undefeated and we don’t want to lose that ‘0’. Expect fireworks from this whole card. It’s gonna be a great night of boxing.”
JOEY SPENCER
“I called for this fight. I made this fight happen, along with Jesus who accepted it. This is the fight I wanted for respect. I want to show who the top young fighter around here is. This fight is going to determine it. I want to put on a performance that’s undeniable.
“There’s a few different things that can happen in the 154-pound division with the titles. The winner of this fight could possibly get a title shot next. I’m ready for the best fight I can possibly get after this one. This is competition at the highest level and this is what the sport is all about.
“After this fight, I’m going to go right after the next best opponent out there. I’m addicted to preparing for these types of moments. I want it again.
“Any of these fights on the undercard could steal the show. We’re both undefeated and we’ve got to prove to each other that we can win. We have to take each other’s heart in order to do that, and that’s the type of fight you want to tune in to see.”
CHRIS COLBERT
“I wouldn’t say I’m desperate, but I know what happened in my last fight [a loss]. No excuses. Everything happens for a reason though. I just know that I’m getting the win on Saturday. He’s a tough competitor, but I’m going to do what I do best, and that’s win.
“There’s no pressure on me. I’m ready to go the distance. I’m just the overall better fighter. If all he’s got is power to beat me, he’s got another thing coming, he better hope his tool-box is full on Saturday.
“I never watch tape of my opponents, but I know that he’s nothing different than any other fighter I’ve faced. He’s going to try to do the same things in there. He won’t be ready for what I’m going to bring.
“Make sure you tune in. You don’t want to miss this one. It’s gonna be fireworks. I’m coming to win. I don’t care how, but I’m going to win.”
JOSE VALENZUELA
“He’s in for a long night. I went back to the drawing board and prepared tremendously. I focused a lot on myself and cleaned everything up. I’m ready.
“I think I have more advantages. I’m a natural 135 pounder. He was dropped by a 130-pounder and Saturday night I’m going to show him why the lightweight division is a different story.
“I’ve just had an amazing training camp with David Benavidez. It’s great to have them in my corner and I know that they’re always going to have my back.
“I’m glad he thinks all I’ve got is power. I bring a lot more to the table. Make sure you tune into this fight. This is a tremendous card.”
CODY CROWLEY
“He’s in for a world of hurt. I‘m like a steam train coming forward. If you’re not willing to throw 200 punches a round, you’re not up for the Cody Crowley challenge.
“I enter the ring with one thing in mind and that’s completely suffocating my opponent. I take the thinking ability away from them.
“My main concern is that every fan in the stadium is standing on their feet at the end of a Cody Crowley fight. Expect fireworks.
“Abel knows what to expect, I just hope he has the greatest sleep of his life Friday night, because I want the best Abel Ramos standing at the center of the ring and ready for a world of hurt.
“Me and my father were battling mental health issues for a couple years. He had demons that he couldn’t beat and last summer they got the best of him and he took his own life. This fight right now gives me a reason to get up every day and continue pushing forward. Come Saturday, March 25 it’s my 30th birthday, I never thought I’d make it to 30, but thanks to my father, I have.”
ABEL RAMOS
“I’m excited. I’m glad he’s got this type of mindset. It’s gonna be a good show for the fans. I’m gonna hit him with good power shots. I don’t think he’s felt power like mine and he’s gonna feel it Saturday.
“I believe a win puts me back in line for a world title shot. That’s what I’m hoping for. I know we have a tough fight on Saturday, but that’s why I trained so hard. I’m up for the challenge.
“It’s gonna be a great crowd Saturday and we’re expecting a friendly atmosphere. I always bring excitement and the fans know that.
“This is gonna be a war. We both have the same mindset and that’s gonna make this an amazing fight and an amazing night.
“I just have to win convincingly. A stoppage would be the cherry on top, but if I win convincingly, it’ll put me right back where I want to be.”
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Presser quotes from Saturday's PPV undercard
On Thursday, the final press conference was held for the big Showtime pay-per-view show scheduled for tomorrow (March 25th) at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Besides the two main even boxers (David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant), the press conference featured the other boxers competing on the pay-per-view telecast: Jesus “Mono” Ramos and Joey Spencer, two undefeated boxers who meet in the co-feature, Chris “Primetime” Colbert and Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela, who duel in a lightweight showdown, and welterweights Cody Crowley and Abel Ramos, who square off in the pay-per-view telecast opener at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT. Here is what the undercard boxers had to say Thursday from KÀ Theatre at MGM Grand:
JESUS RAMOS JR.
“I took this fight because I want respect. I want people to know that I’m here. I’m coming to make a statement at 154 pounds. Whoever wins this fight catapults themselves to the next level. That’s what I’m here for.
“I think we’re both good boxers and it could definitely go the distance, but if we really want to prove something, we have to get the stoppage.
“He’s supposed to be confident, but none of our talk up here matters once that bell rings. He’s gotta show it to me and prove to me what he can do. I’m ready for this moment.
“I have a lot of things that I haven’t shown or haven’t displayed because I haven’t had to yet. I hope that Joey Spencer brings that out of me.
“This is gonna be a great fight. We’re both undefeated and we don’t want to lose that ‘0’. Expect fireworks from this whole card. It’s gonna be a great night of boxing.”
JOEY SPENCER
“I called for this fight. I made this fight happen, along with Jesus who accepted it. This is the fight I wanted for respect. I want to show who the top young fighter around here is. This fight is going to determine it. I want to put on a performance that’s undeniable.
“There’s a few different things that can happen in the 154-pound division with the titles. The winner of this fight could possibly get a title shot next. I’m ready for the best fight I can possibly get after this one. This is competition at the highest level and this is what the sport is all about.
“After this fight, I’m going to go right after the next best opponent out there. I’m addicted to preparing for these types of moments. I want it again.
“Any of these fights on the undercard could steal the show. We’re both undefeated and we’ve got to prove to each other that we can win. We have to take each other’s heart in order to do that, and that’s the type of fight you want to tune in to see.”
CHRIS COLBERT
“I wouldn’t say I’m desperate, but I know what happened in my last fight [a loss]. No excuses. Everything happens for a reason though. I just know that I’m getting the win on Saturday. He’s a tough competitor, but I’m going to do what I do best, and that’s win.
“There’s no pressure on me. I’m ready to go the distance. I’m just the overall better fighter. If all he’s got is power to beat me, he’s got another thing coming, he better hope his tool-box is full on Saturday.
“I never watch tape of my opponents, but I know that he’s nothing different than any other fighter I’ve faced. He’s going to try to do the same things in there. He won’t be ready for what I’m going to bring.
“Make sure you tune in. You don’t want to miss this one. It’s gonna be fireworks. I’m coming to win. I don’t care how, but I’m going to win.”
JOSE VALENZUELA
“He’s in for a long night. I went back to the drawing board and prepared tremendously. I focused a lot on myself and cleaned everything up. I’m ready.
“I think I have more advantages. I’m a natural 135 pounder. He was dropped by a 130-pounder and Saturday night I’m going to show him why the lightweight division is a different story.
“I’ve just had an amazing training camp with David Benavidez. It’s great to have them in my corner and I know that they’re always going to have my back.
“I’m glad he thinks all I’ve got is power. I bring a lot more to the table. Make sure you tune into this fight. This is a tremendous card.”
CODY CROWLEY
“He’s in for a world of hurt. I‘m like a steam train coming forward. If you’re not willing to throw 200 punches a round, you’re not up for the Cody Crowley challenge.
“I enter the ring with one thing in mind and that’s completely suffocating my opponent. I take the thinking ability away from them.
“My main concern is that every fan in the stadium is standing on their feet at the end of a Cody Crowley fight. Expect fireworks.
“Abel knows what to expect, I just hope he has the greatest sleep of his life Friday night, because I want the best Abel Ramos standing at the center of the ring and ready for a world of hurt.
“Me and my father were battling mental health issues for a couple years. He had demons that he couldn’t beat and last summer they got the best of him and he took his own life. This fight right now gives me a reason to get up every day and continue pushing forward. Come Saturday, March 25 it’s my 30th birthday, I never thought I’d make it to 30, but thanks to my father, I have.”
ABEL RAMOS
“I’m excited. I’m glad he’s got this type of mindset. It’s gonna be a good show for the fans. I’m gonna hit him with good power shots. I don’t think he’s felt power like mine and he’s gonna feel it Saturday.
“I believe a win puts me back in line for a world title shot. That’s what I’m hoping for. I know we have a tough fight on Saturday, but that’s why I trained so hard. I’m up for the challenge.
“It’s gonna be a great crowd Saturday and we’re expecting a friendly atmosphere. I always bring excitement and the fans know that.
“This is gonna be a war. We both have the same mindset and that’s gonna make this an amazing fight and an amazing night.
“I just have to win convincingly. A stoppage would be the cherry on top, but if I win convincingly, it’ll put me right back where I want to be.”
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Jaime "Hurricane" Clampitt staring down Father Time |
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The day after her loss to Miranda Reyes in June, Jaime "Hurricane" Clampitt was back in the gym already thinking about the next opportunity. And yet there was still some hesitation. Was she still good enough to compete at a high level? Had age finally caught up to her? Clampitt, age 46, knew if she was going to continue her comeback and earn a shot at notoriety among the sport’s elite fighters, she’d have to make a few adjustments. And with Saturday’s showdown against Taynna Cardoso (5-2) on the front burner, Clampitt (23-6-2, 7 KOs) is excited to apply what she learned during training camp in the main event of the CES Boxing show at Rhode Island's newly-renovated Historic Park Theatre & Event Center.
"I was clearly not happy with my last performance," said Clampitt, who dropped a unanimous decision to the 21-year-old Reyes in what was only her sixth loss as a pro. "I could have ended [my career] there and it would have been fine, but I would’ve regretted it later. I needed to step back and look at things."
With a husband, a 14-year-old daughter, and a 10-year-old son at home, Clampitt acknowledged it’s harder than ever to dedicate as much time – if not more – to boxing as she could earlier in her career. She also acknowledged that her last camp wasn’t her best. Sparring was minimal and she continued to deal with nagging injuries that first began to pop up when she initially launched her comeback in June of 2021.
This camp was much different, highlighted by two key additions to her team – a physical therapist and a sports psychologist. The former helped Clampitt deal with the rigors of camp and the physical toll training for a fight takes on her body. The latter helped her process her emotions and deal with the mental aspect of the sport, something she admits she never really paid attention to during the early stages of her career. "I just wrapped up my last pad work session of camp and I feel amazing. Nothing hurts," Clampitt said. "Now it’s up to me on Saturday.
"We did things differently this time. I needed to look outside the box a little bit. The physical therapist and sports psychologist have been a huge game-changer, not only in the gym but outside the gym. I’m looking at things differently. I used to be so hung up on my age, now I realize it doesn’t matter."
While physical therapy helped heal wounds absorbed from rigorous training and years of pushing her body to the limit, the psychological element brought Clampitt some much-needed piece of mind.
"The first question my sports psychologist asked me was, ‘How often do you work on your mental game?’" Clampitt said. "I had never really thought much about it before, but the sport is 100 percent mental and 100 percent physical.
"It’s been so different for me going into this because I worked on that equally as much during this camp as I worked on my physical game. I’m excited to put it to work."
Clampitt also got much better sparring this time around after admitting "it was like pulling teeth" to get quality work for her last camp. To prepare for Cardoso, she worked alongside CES roster mate Stevie Jane Coleman and even squeezed in a few rounds with current undisputed lightweight world champion Katie Taylor.
The motivation to continue hasn’t waned, even though Clampitt admits there was some doubt after the loss to Miranda. The ever-changing landscape in female boxing – from the life-changing paydays to the exposure on major networks – brought her out of retirement two years ago and it’s what keeps her active as ever at 46 years old. "I really didn’t think I was ever going to fight again, but to see how the sport has evolved is excited," Clampitt said. "My era took it a certain level, but this new class has taken it to a whole other level and our generation never had the chance to experience that."
[CES Boxing president] Jimmy [Burchfield] was one of the first promoters to put women on major fight cards. If it weren’t for people like him, I don’t know how far this sport would’ve gone. I want to see where I fit in with these women."
***
Saturday's shaow will also features unbeaten super featherweight Alejandro Paulino in a six rounder against Derrick Murray, highlighting a full day of boxing that also features the Jimmy Burchfield Classic Invitational VII matinee amateur boxing showcase. (The two shows are separate admission events with tickets for available online at CESFights.com or TheParkRI.com.)
Fighting for the first time under the CES banner, newly-signed, undefeated junior middleweight Anthony Velazquez (11-0, 10 KOs) of Springfield, MA, faces hard-charging Brazilian Rodrigo Lopes Rodrigues (8-4, 7 KOs) in a six-round bout.
Also, Cranston’s own Gary Balletto III (3-0, 2 KOs) steps back into the ring against 23-year-old Marlborough, MA, native Raphael Torres (2-0, 2 KOs) with both fighters putting their unbeaten records on the line in a six-round cruiserweight bout.
Johnston, RI, super middleweight James Maner (2-0, 2 KOs) aims for his third career win in a four-round bout against debuting Garrett Desilets of Fall River, MA.
Welterweight Jesus Salas (1-1, 1 KO) of New Bedford, MA, makes his CES debut in a four-round bout against Bronx native Jeff Gonzalez (1-0).
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Jaime "Hurricane" Clampitt staring down Father Time
The day after her loss to Miranda Reyes in June, Jaime "Hurricane" Clampitt was back in the gym already thinking about the next opportunity. And yet there was still some hesitation. Was she still good enough to compete at a high level? Had age finally caught up to her? Clampitt, age 46, knew if she was going to continue her comeback and earn a shot at notoriety among the sport’s elite fighters, she’d have to make a few adjustments. And with Saturday’s showdown against Taynna Cardoso (5-2) on the front burner, Clampitt (23-6-2, 7 KOs) is excited to apply what she learned during training camp in the main event of the CES Boxing show at Rhode Island's newly-renovated Historic Park Theatre & Event Center.
"I was clearly not happy with my last performance," said Clampitt, who dropped a unanimous decision to the 21-year-old Reyes in what was only her sixth loss as a pro. "I could have ended [my career] there and it would have been fine, but I would’ve regretted it later. I needed to step back and look at things."
With a husband, a 14-year-old daughter, and a 10-year-old son at home, Clampitt acknowledged it’s harder than ever to dedicate as much time – if not more – to boxing as she could earlier in her career. She also acknowledged that her last camp wasn’t her best. Sparring was minimal and she continued to deal with nagging injuries that first began to pop up when she initially launched her comeback in June of 2021.
This camp was much different, highlighted by two key additions to her team – a physical therapist and a sports psychologist. The former helped Clampitt deal with the rigors of camp and the physical toll training for a fight takes on her body. The latter helped her process her emotions and deal with the mental aspect of the sport, something she admits she never really paid attention to during the early stages of her career. "I just wrapped up my last pad work session of camp and I feel amazing. Nothing hurts," Clampitt said. "Now it’s up to me on Saturday.
"We did things differently this time. I needed to look outside the box a little bit. The physical therapist and sports psychologist have been a huge game-changer, not only in the gym but outside the gym. I’m looking at things differently. I used to be so hung up on my age, now I realize it doesn’t matter."
While physical therapy helped heal wounds absorbed from rigorous training and years of pushing her body to the limit, the psychological element brought Clampitt some much-needed piece of mind.
"The first question my sports psychologist asked me was, ‘How often do you work on your mental game?’" Clampitt said. "I had never really thought much about it before, but the sport is 100 percent mental and 100 percent physical.
"It’s been so different for me going into this because I worked on that equally as much during this camp as I worked on my physical game. I’m excited to put it to work."
Clampitt also got much better sparring this time around after admitting "it was like pulling teeth" to get quality work for her last camp. To prepare for Cardoso, she worked alongside CES roster mate Stevie Jane Coleman and even squeezed in a few rounds with current undisputed lightweight world champion Katie Taylor.
The motivation to continue hasn’t waned, even though Clampitt admits there was some doubt after the loss to Miranda. The ever-changing landscape in female boxing – from the life-changing paydays to the exposure on major networks – brought her out of retirement two years ago and it’s what keeps her active as ever at 46 years old. "I really didn’t think I was ever going to fight again, but to see how the sport has evolved is excited," Clampitt said. "My era took it a certain level, but this new class has taken it to a whole other level and our generation never had the chance to experience that."
[CES Boxing president] Jimmy [Burchfield] was one of the first promoters to put women on major fight cards. If it weren’t for people like him, I don’t know how far this sport would’ve gone. I want to see where I fit in with these women."
***
Saturday's shaow will also features unbeaten super featherweight Alejandro Paulino in a six rounder against Derrick Murray, highlighting a full day of boxing that also features the Jimmy Burchfield Classic Invitational VII matinee amateur boxing showcase. (The two shows are separate admission events with tickets for available online at CESFights.com or TheParkRI.com.)
Fighting for the first time under the CES banner, newly-signed, undefeated junior middleweight Anthony Velazquez (11-0, 10 KOs) of Springfield, MA, faces hard-charging Brazilian Rodrigo Lopes Rodrigues (8-4, 7 KOs) in a six-round bout.
Also, Cranston’s own Gary Balletto III (3-0, 2 KOs) steps back into the ring against 23-year-old Marlborough, MA, native Raphael Torres (2-0, 2 KOs) with both fighters putting their unbeaten records on the line in a six-round cruiserweight bout.
Johnston, RI, super middleweight James Maner (2-0, 2 KOs) aims for his third career win in a four-round bout against debuting Garrett Desilets of Fall River, MA.
Welterweight Jesus Salas (1-1, 1 KO) of New Bedford, MA, makes his CES debut in a four-round bout against Bronx native Jeff Gonzalez (1-0).
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Kristian Prenga to battle Sam Crossed in New Jersey |
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On March 25th, Kristian Prenga will battle Sam Crossed in a heavyweight main event at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. The fight card is promoted by Rising Star Promotions. The Albanian Prenga is 12-1 with all of his wins coming by knockout. The 32 year-old has thrilled his fans with his knockout power, including in his last outing when he drilled Alvin Davie in two rounds on November 12, 2022. Crossed of Greenbelt, Maryland has a record of 11-3-1 with seven knockouts. The 35 year-old Crossed is an eight-year veteran who is coming off a defeat to Calvin Mends on May 21, 2022 in Springfield, Virgina. In a six-round undercard bout, Isaah Flaherty (5-0, 3 KOs) of Queens, New York takes on Dewayne Williams (3-6-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia at junior middleweight.
In four-round bouts, Malik Nelson (3-0, 3 KOs) of Perth Amboy, New Jersey battles Joseph Adorno Del Valle (0-0-1) of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico at featherweight... Gabriel Gerena (1-0, 1 KO) of Piscataway, New Jersey boxes Joshua Maldonado Garcia (1-3) of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico in a super featherweight bout and... Justin Figueroa (3-0, 3 KOs) takes on Manuel Moreira (0-3) of Sheridan, Wyoming at junior middleweight.
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Kristian Prenga to battle Sam Crossed in New Jersey
On March 25th, Kristian Prenga will battle Sam Crossed in a heavyweight main event at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. The fight card is promoted by Rising Star Promotions. The Albanian Prenga is 12-1 with all of his wins coming by knockout. The 32 year-old has thrilled his fans with his knockout power, including in his last outing when he drilled Alvin Davie in two rounds on November 12, 2022. Crossed of Greenbelt, Maryland has a record of 11-3-1 with seven knockouts. The 35 year-old Crossed is an eight-year veteran who is coming off a defeat to Calvin Mends on May 21, 2022 in Springfield, Virgina. In a six-round undercard bout, Isaah Flaherty (5-0, 3 KOs) of Queens, New York takes on Dewayne Williams (3-6-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia at junior middleweight.
In four-round bouts, Malik Nelson (3-0, 3 KOs) of Perth Amboy, New Jersey battles Joseph Adorno Del Valle (0-0-1) of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico at featherweight... Gabriel Gerena (1-0, 1 KO) of Piscataway, New Jersey boxes Joshua Maldonado Garcia (1-3) of Vega Alta, Puerto Rico in a super featherweight bout and... Justin Figueroa (3-0, 3 KOs) takes on Manuel Moreira (0-3) of Sheridan, Wyoming at junior middleweight.
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WBA Asia announces show in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam |
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This Saturday (March 25th), the Saigon Sports Club in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam will host a boxing event in coordination with WBA Asia. The featured fight will see local Huu Toan Lee (6-0) in a minimumweight bout against Filipino Garen Diagan (9-3). Another fight will match Vietnamese suoer middleweight Dinh Hoang Truong (3-0) against Korea's Dae Hyun Baek (4-1). Finally, homegrown Ngoc Hai Nguyen (4-0-3) will face Thai veteran Campee Phayom (22-5-2) in a junior welterweight contest.
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WBA Asia announces show in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
This Saturday (March 25th), the Saigon Sports Club in Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam will host a boxing event in coordination with WBA Asia. The featured fight will see local Huu Toan Lee (6-0) in a minimumweight bout against Filipino Garen Diagan (9-3). Another fight will match Vietnamese suoer middleweight Dinh Hoang Truong (3-0) against Korea's Dae Hyun Baek (4-1). Finally, homegrown Ngoc Hai Nguyen (4-0-3) will face Thai veteran Campee Phayom (22-5-2) in a junior welterweight contest.
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Why Plant dislikes Benavidez: "Once you start bringing up someone’s family, that’s a different level" |
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Boxing star and former IBF supermiddleweight champion Caleb Plant sat down for a discussion in the latest episode of “The Pivot Podcast.” Plant dove deep into his feud with David Benavidez before they do battle this Saturday, March 25th, in Las Vegas. The episode is available for viewing on the show’s YouTube page. Asked by former NFL stars and the show’s co-hosts Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder and Fred Taylor to explain the origins of his beef with Benavidez, Plant explained that the dispute has simmered for years, with personal comments from David’s father about Plant’s tragically deceased daughter Alia pushing the rivalry to a new level.
“Boxing is not a job for me,” said Plant. “Boxing is my life. I’m not trying to let anyone disrupt that or get in the way of that. So it is personal for me…As far as David Benavidez, that started out as us agreeing to disagree about who’s better. Over time I think it’s developed into something more…Once you start bringing up someone’s family, that’s a different level…Some things you don’t come back from and for me that’s not reversible.”
The clash of former champions is one of boxing’s most anticipated fights of the year, and a scintillating style matchup that pits the smooth movement and technical boxing skills of Plant up against the brute force of Benavidez, as each looks to add a career-best victory to their resume. “There’s a lot of variables when you go into the ring, but I do expect to get my hand raised in fashion,” said Plant. “I truly believe that. I believe I’m the better boxer and I have the better pedigree. Plus I’m more disciplined, obviously.”
The episode also saw Plant break down the many obstacles he’s had to overcome on his road from growing up in poverty in Tennessee, to becoming a renowned world champion in boxing. In what he later describes as the tragedy that led to the biggest pivot of his life, Plant went deep on the passing of his daughter Ali at just 19 months in 2015. For Plant, he says he owes his greatest moment in the ring, the night he became a world champion in January 2019, to the motivation that Alia had provided him. “That moment was indescribable really,” said Plant. “When they announce those words ‘and the new’, it’s something that any kid who’s ever halfway laced up a pair of boxing gloves dreams of one day…Me keeping that promise to Alia that I was going to be world champion, was something that was engraved in me. It didn’t matter who stood across from me that night, there was no one who was beating me.”
While Plant carries motivation from that tragedy into the ring, he has learned over the years to harness it into putting on his best performances. Despite the emotion that comes with it, Plant knows that controlling those emotions is ultimately the key to his success, even when an opponent is going to tremendous lengths to get under his skin. “I don’t go in there emotionally,” said Plant. “Seeing Alia go through those things definitely motivated me. I knew that I could do anything after seeing what she went through. You can’t go into the ring emotionally though, it’s a thinking man’s game. I’m a thinking fighter. I have a heavy IQ and a heavy bag of tricks…Over the years I learned how to channel my emotions and go into the ring calm, cool and collected.
“They want you to get riled up and tense. Why else does anyone talk shit? To try and get them out of their game. So if I know that’s the reason, why would I give them what they want? Because if I stay calm and stay cool, I can prove that stereotype wrong.”
Plant has only suffered one defeat in his career, a 2021 showdown against Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez for the undisputed world super middleweight championship. Although many credited Plant for making it to boxing’s biggest stage, he explained how just making it that far did not satisfy his desire in the sport.
“It was a good thing to be part of such a big fight,” said Plant. “Canelo is a great fighter and he’s done a lot of great things. But it doesn’t excite me that I get to stand across from anybody in the ring. I’m here on a mission and to accomplish my own goals. Not to be excited that I’m standing across from someone who’s already done that. I look at myself as on the same playing field as he’s on. I’m excited about getting my hand raised.”
In going deeper on his mentality in the sport, Plant laid out his intention to make his name one that resonates and lasts well beyond his career, echoing the desire he had to make it out of extraordinary circumstances into the position he’s in now.
“I know the best is brought out of me when I’m challenged,” said Plant. “That can be emotionally or physically. I’m someone who has to be challenged in life for the best to be brought out of me. Those kinds of things just add fuel to the fire for me to not only win, but win in spectacular fashion. I’m not someone who wants to just get in this sport, get money and get out. I really love boxing…I want my name to be written in stone forever. When people talk boxing, I want them to bring my name up.”
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Why Plant dislikes Benavidez: "Once you start bringing up someone’s family, that’s a different level"
Boxing star and former IBF supermiddleweight champion Caleb Plant sat down for a discussion in the latest episode of “The Pivot Podcast.” Plant dove deep into his feud with David Benavidez before they do battle this Saturday, March 25th, in Las Vegas. The episode is available for viewing on the show’s YouTube page. Asked by former NFL stars and the show’s co-hosts Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder and Fred Taylor to explain the origins of his beef with Benavidez, Plant explained that the dispute has simmered for years, with personal comments from David’s father about Plant’s tragically deceased daughter Alia pushing the rivalry to a new level.
“Boxing is not a job for me,” said Plant. “Boxing is my life. I’m not trying to let anyone disrupt that or get in the way of that. So it is personal for me…As far as David Benavidez, that started out as us agreeing to disagree about who’s better. Over time I think it’s developed into something more…Once you start bringing up someone’s family, that’s a different level…Some things you don’t come back from and for me that’s not reversible.”
The clash of former champions is one of boxing’s most anticipated fights of the year, and a scintillating style matchup that pits the smooth movement and technical boxing skills of Plant up against the brute force of Benavidez, as each looks to add a career-best victory to their resume. “There’s a lot of variables when you go into the ring, but I do expect to get my hand raised in fashion,” said Plant. “I truly believe that. I believe I’m the better boxer and I have the better pedigree. Plus I’m more disciplined, obviously.”
The episode also saw Plant break down the many obstacles he’s had to overcome on his road from growing up in poverty in Tennessee, to becoming a renowned world champion in boxing. In what he later describes as the tragedy that led to the biggest pivot of his life, Plant went deep on the passing of his daughter Ali at just 19 months in 2015. For Plant, he says he owes his greatest moment in the ring, the night he became a world champion in January 2019, to the motivation that Alia had provided him. “That moment was indescribable really,” said Plant. “When they announce those words ‘and the new’, it’s something that any kid who’s ever halfway laced up a pair of boxing gloves dreams of one day…Me keeping that promise to Alia that I was going to be world champion, was something that was engraved in me. It didn’t matter who stood across from me that night, there was no one who was beating me.”
While Plant carries motivation from that tragedy into the ring, he has learned over the years to harness it into putting on his best performances. Despite the emotion that comes with it, Plant knows that controlling those emotions is ultimately the key to his success, even when an opponent is going to tremendous lengths to get under his skin. “I don’t go in there emotionally,” said Plant. “Seeing Alia go through those things definitely motivated me. I knew that I could do anything after seeing what she went through. You can’t go into the ring emotionally though, it’s a thinking man’s game. I’m a thinking fighter. I have a heavy IQ and a heavy bag of tricks…Over the years I learned how to channel my emotions and go into the ring calm, cool and collected.
“They want you to get riled up and tense. Why else does anyone talk shit? To try and get them out of their game. So if I know that’s the reason, why would I give them what they want? Because if I stay calm and stay cool, I can prove that stereotype wrong.”
Plant has only suffered one defeat in his career, a 2021 showdown against Mexican superstar Canelo Alvarez for the undisputed world super middleweight championship. Although many credited Plant for making it to boxing’s biggest stage, he explained how just making it that far did not satisfy his desire in the sport.
“It was a good thing to be part of such a big fight,” said Plant. “Canelo is a great fighter and he’s done a lot of great things. But it doesn’t excite me that I get to stand across from anybody in the ring. I’m here on a mission and to accomplish my own goals. Not to be excited that I’m standing across from someone who’s already done that. I look at myself as on the same playing field as he’s on. I’m excited about getting my hand raised.”
In going deeper on his mentality in the sport, Plant laid out his intention to make his name one that resonates and lasts well beyond his career, echoing the desire he had to make it out of extraordinary circumstances into the position he’s in now.
“I know the best is brought out of me when I’m challenged,” said Plant. “That can be emotionally or physically. I’m someone who has to be challenged in life for the best to be brought out of me. Those kinds of things just add fuel to the fire for me to not only win, but win in spectacular fashion. I’m not someone who wants to just get in this sport, get money and get out. I really love boxing…I want my name to be written in stone forever. When people talk boxing, I want them to bring my name up.”
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Ivan Zucco faces Germaine Brown in Milan on Friday |
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The ESPN+ boxing action continues tomorrow (Friday) from the Allianz Cloud in Milan, Italy, as undefeated super middleweight Ivan Zucco faces off against London’s Germaine Brown in a ten-round bout streaming live beginning at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT. Zucco (16-0, 14 KOs) is a 27 year-old southpaw who debuted in the paid ranks in 2017. He beat then undefeated Luca Capuano in 2021 via sixth-round knockout. In his last fight, he stopped Marko Nikolic in the second round. His last six opponents have not gone the distance. Brown (12-1, 3 KOs) is a 28 year-old native of London who captured a British title in 2022 with a decision win over Charlie Schofield. In his last outing, he lost the belt to Zak Chelli in what has been his only loss so far.
In other streaming action from Milan, Francesco Russo (12-2, 10 KOs) will put his Italian junior middleweight title on the line in a ten-rounder against Christian Mazzon (9-4, 3 KOs)... Maxim Prodan (20-2-1, 15 KOs) will see action in an eight-round welterweight tilt against Mirko Marchetti (8-4) and... Italian middleweight Giovanni Sarchioto (6-0, 6 KOs) will participate in an eight-round contest against France’s Houcine Moulahi (4-13-2, 2 KOs).
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Ivan Zucco faces Germaine Brown in Milan on Friday
The ESPN+ boxing action continues tomorrow (Friday) from the Allianz Cloud in Milan, Italy, as undefeated super middleweight Ivan Zucco faces off against London’s Germaine Brown in a ten-round bout streaming live beginning at 3 p.m. ET/12 p.m. PT. Zucco (16-0, 14 KOs) is a 27 year-old southpaw who debuted in the paid ranks in 2017. He beat then undefeated Luca Capuano in 2021 via sixth-round knockout. In his last fight, he stopped Marko Nikolic in the second round. His last six opponents have not gone the distance. Brown (12-1, 3 KOs) is a 28 year-old native of London who captured a British title in 2022 with a decision win over Charlie Schofield. In his last outing, he lost the belt to Zak Chelli in what has been his only loss so far.
In other streaming action from Milan, Francesco Russo (12-2, 10 KOs) will put his Italian junior middleweight title on the line in a ten-rounder against Christian Mazzon (9-4, 3 KOs)... Maxim Prodan (20-2-1, 15 KOs) will see action in an eight-round welterweight tilt against Mirko Marchetti (8-4) and... Italian middleweight Giovanni Sarchioto (6-0, 6 KOs) will participate in an eight-round contest against France’s Houcine Moulahi (4-13-2, 2 KOs).
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A few words with DJ “The War Machine” Zamora |
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Super featherweight, DJ “The War Machine” Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs), is excited to be returning to the ring as prepares to take on his toughest test, Jesus Abel Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs). The eight-round bout will take place this Saturday March 25th, on the highly anticipated David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant card at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. "I am very excited to share the ring with another undefeated fighter and this is by far the biggest opportunity of my career," stated Zamora, who will be fighting in his hometown Las Vegas. "I know exactly what is on the line and what I must do. I hope to give the fans a great show and send a message to the super-featherweight division. I know Ibarra, like me, is a tough fighter with a lot of heart, so we both will be leaving everything in the ring. Fans can expect to see an explosive fight.”
Zamora, who is only 19 years old, has shown that he has both power and skill. Zamora has also sparred with some of the biggest names in boxing. These experiences have given him valuable insights into the sport and have helped him to hone his skills even further.
“I’ve gained a lot of knowledge and experience having sparred guys like Devin Haney and Shukur Stevenson, as well as my others out here in Las Vegas,” continued Zamora. “Ryan Garcia invited me to one of his training camps a few years back, and that work was incredible. I know what I'm capable of and I am very thankful for the opportunity to be fighting under the bright lights. I want to thank my team for making this possible. My confidence is at an all-time high and all the hard work will be on display this Saturday.”
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A few words with DJ “The War Machine” Zamora
Super featherweight, DJ “The War Machine” Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs), is excited to be returning to the ring as prepares to take on his toughest test, Jesus Abel Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs). The eight-round bout will take place this Saturday March 25th, on the highly anticipated David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant card at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. "I am very excited to share the ring with another undefeated fighter and this is by far the biggest opportunity of my career," stated Zamora, who will be fighting in his hometown Las Vegas. "I know exactly what is on the line and what I must do. I hope to give the fans a great show and send a message to the super-featherweight division. I know Ibarra, like me, is a tough fighter with a lot of heart, so we both will be leaving everything in the ring. Fans can expect to see an explosive fight.”
Zamora, who is only 19 years old, has shown that he has both power and skill. Zamora has also sparred with some of the biggest names in boxing. These experiences have given him valuable insights into the sport and have helped him to hone his skills even further.
“I’ve gained a lot of knowledge and experience having sparred guys like Devin Haney and Shukur Stevenson, as well as my others out here in Las Vegas,” continued Zamora. “Ryan Garcia invited me to one of his training camps a few years back, and that work was incredible. I know what I'm capable of and I am very thankful for the opportunity to be fighting under the bright lights. I want to thank my team for making this possible. My confidence is at an all-time high and all the hard work will be on display this Saturday.”
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Lawal to defend British cruiserweight title vs. Chamberlain |
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Boxxer’s first-ever UK stadium show on Bank Holiday Weekend (Saturday, May 27th) will take place in Bournemouth, England. Mikael Lawal (17-0) will be making the first defense of the British cruiserweight championship he won by stopping David Jamieson in November. Standing opposite him will be Isaac Chamberlain (14-2), making his second trip to Bournemouth following his unsuccessful attempt to take the Commonwealth and European cruiserweight belts in July last year. The show will be headlined by another cruiserweight, hometown hero Chris Billam-Smith. The opponent for Billam-Smith's will be revealed next Monday at a press conference in London. The show takes place at the 15,000-capacity Vitality Stadium – home of Premier League football team AFC Bournemouth.
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Lawal to defend British cruiserweight title vs. Chamberlain
Boxxer’s first-ever UK stadium show on Bank Holiday Weekend (Saturday, May 27th) will take place in Bournemouth, England. Mikael Lawal (17-0) will be making the first defense of the British cruiserweight championship he won by stopping David Jamieson in November. Standing opposite him will be Isaac Chamberlain (14-2), making his second trip to Bournemouth following his unsuccessful attempt to take the Commonwealth and European cruiserweight belts in July last year. The show will be headlined by another cruiserweight, hometown hero Chris Billam-Smith. The opponent for Billam-Smith's will be revealed next Monday at a press conference in London. The show takes place at the 15,000-capacity Vitality Stadium – home of Premier League football team AFC Bournemouth.
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GH3 Promotions to co-promote super middleweight Junior Younan |
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GH3 Promotions has announced the signing of super middleweight Junior "The Young God" Younan to a co-promotional deal with Amaury Piedra. Younan, age 27, is from Brooklyn, New York and has a record of 17-0-1 with 11 knockouts. "This a is a great signing for us. Junior has always been a terrific talent. He just needed the opportunities, and that is what we plan to do. He can be a real player in the super middleweight division, and with a couple of wins, he will get those and eventually win world championships." said Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions.
"I am grateful for the opportunity. We have a nice plan for the rest of the year. I am excited for what is to come. I am looking to fight in May, and then fight on a PBC platform. The goal is to get belts at super middleweight. I hope people are sleeping on me because I am getting better. Once they see me back in the ring, people will see that I am still the fighter people were talking about when I turned professional. I just had a year layoff, and stopped a guy with one loss in less than a round. After these few fights, I will be ready for anyone. The only problem before was consistency in fighting. And knowing that I will be active, I will be ready for the biggest challenges," said Younan.
Younan was a highly touted amateur boxer who compiled a 90-5 record before turning professional in 2013 at the age of 18. Once dubbed by The New York Times as "a boxing prodigy" as a ten-year-old, Younan was a two-time National Junior Golden Gloves champion, the 2011 National Junior Olympic championship, and at one point was the No. 1-rated junior boxer in his weight class by USA Boxing. He turned pro in November 2013 with a first-round stoppage over Kenneth Taylor Schmitz. Younan has defeated Mike Guy (9-2-1) and in his last bout, he stopped Dauren Yeleussinov (10-1-1) on July 30, 2022 in Brooklyn.
"We see the passion with Vito and how he gets with his fighters. He responds right away and he cares about his fighters. We are very excited about the future. When we fought in July, PBC loved what they saw. Vito will get us opportunities on a PBC Platform, and Junior will be ready for anyone in the super middleweight division. We are old school and believe real fighters have to fight real fighters. Junior will be doing just that," said Younan's father/trainer Sherif Younan.
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GH3 Promotions to co-promote super middleweight Junior Younan
GH3 Promotions has announced the signing of super middleweight Junior "The Young God" Younan to a co-promotional deal with Amaury Piedra. Younan, age 27, is from Brooklyn, New York and has a record of 17-0-1 with 11 knockouts. "This a is a great signing for us. Junior has always been a terrific talent. He just needed the opportunities, and that is what we plan to do. He can be a real player in the super middleweight division, and with a couple of wins, he will get those and eventually win world championships." said Vito Mielnicki of GH3 Promotions.
"I am grateful for the opportunity. We have a nice plan for the rest of the year. I am excited for what is to come. I am looking to fight in May, and then fight on a PBC platform. The goal is to get belts at super middleweight. I hope people are sleeping on me because I am getting better. Once they see me back in the ring, people will see that I am still the fighter people were talking about when I turned professional. I just had a year layoff, and stopped a guy with one loss in less than a round. After these few fights, I will be ready for anyone. The only problem before was consistency in fighting. And knowing that I will be active, I will be ready for the biggest challenges," said Younan.
Younan was a highly touted amateur boxer who compiled a 90-5 record before turning professional in 2013 at the age of 18. Once dubbed by The New York Times as "a boxing prodigy" as a ten-year-old, Younan was a two-time National Junior Golden Gloves champion, the 2011 National Junior Olympic championship, and at one point was the No. 1-rated junior boxer in his weight class by USA Boxing. He turned pro in November 2013 with a first-round stoppage over Kenneth Taylor Schmitz. Younan has defeated Mike Guy (9-2-1) and in his last bout, he stopped Dauren Yeleussinov (10-1-1) on July 30, 2022 in Brooklyn.
"We see the passion with Vito and how he gets with his fighters. He responds right away and he cares about his fighters. We are very excited about the future. When we fought in July, PBC loved what they saw. Vito will get us opportunities on a PBC Platform, and Junior will be ready for anyone in the super middleweight division. We are old school and believe real fighters have to fight real fighters. Junior will be doing just that," said Younan's father/trainer Sherif Younan.
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Two more teams revealed for Team Combat League |
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Team Combat League today unveiled the rosters for the Atlanta Attack, coached by Sam Arnold Sr. and Mustafa Meekins and the Dallas Enforcers, coached by AC Bryant. Both teams will do battle at the inaugural opening night of Team Combat League on March 29th at the Mohegan Sun Expo Center in Connecticut. Each team carries a roster of 18 fighters across six weight classes. Team Combat League today unveiled the rosters for the Atlanta Attack, coached by Sam Arnold Sr. and Mustafa Meekins and the Dallas Enforcers, coached by AC Bryant. Both teams will do battle at the inaugural opening night of Team Combat League on March 29th at the Mohegan Sun Expo Center in Connecticut. Each team carries a roster of 18 fighters across 6 weight classes.
Dallas features Errol Spence sparring partner Adrian Taylor (13-1), Jennifer Miranda (8-0) and AJ Graham (10-0). Atlanta has Javonn Davis (7-0), Devon Young (3-0), Austin Dulay (15-4) and Keandre Leatherwood (23-8-1).
Dallas Enforcers
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Jennifer Miranda
Anna Maria Verbeek
Destiny Jean Rivercomb
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Randy Canaday
Clay Burns
Male Welterweight 147lbs
AJ Graham
Malik Samar
Andre Ewell
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Khalid Johnson
Keandrea Leatherwood
Qanderis Arnold
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Kenneth Peoples
Jordan Frederick
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Adrian Taylor
Montoya Andres Garcia
Waylon Allen Bailey
Atlanta Attack
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Danielle Bennet
Mona Ward
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Marcell Davidson
Michael Dawson
Josh Johnson
Male Welterweight 147lbs
Austin Dulay
Javonn Davis
Marcus Davidson
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Mauricio Javon King
Dayan Depestre
Malik Donovan Reid
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Devonte Williams
Nehemiah Jones
Frankie Solomon
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Devon Young
Demetrius Demeritte
Michael Nelson
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Two more teams revealed for Team Combat League
Team Combat League today unveiled the rosters for the Atlanta Attack, coached by Sam Arnold Sr. and Mustafa Meekins and the Dallas Enforcers, coached by AC Bryant. Both teams will do battle at the inaugural opening night of Team Combat League on March 29th at the Mohegan Sun Expo Center in Connecticut. Each team carries a roster of 18 fighters across six weight classes. Team Combat League today unveiled the rosters for the Atlanta Attack, coached by Sam Arnold Sr. and Mustafa Meekins and the Dallas Enforcers, coached by AC Bryant. Both teams will do battle at the inaugural opening night of Team Combat League on March 29th at the Mohegan Sun Expo Center in Connecticut. Each team carries a roster of 18 fighters across 6 weight classes.
Dallas features Errol Spence sparring partner Adrian Taylor (13-1), Jennifer Miranda (8-0) and AJ Graham (10-0). Atlanta has Javonn Davis (7-0), Devon Young (3-0), Austin Dulay (15-4) and Keandre Leatherwood (23-8-1).
Dallas Enforcers
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Jennifer Miranda
Anna Maria Verbeek
Destiny Jean Rivercomb
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Randy Canaday
Clay Burns
Male Welterweight 147lbs
AJ Graham
Malik Samar
Andre Ewell
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Khalid Johnson
Keandrea Leatherwood
Qanderis Arnold
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Kenneth Peoples
Jordan Frederick
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Adrian Taylor
Montoya Andres Garcia
Waylon Allen Bailey
Atlanta Attack
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Danielle Bennet
Mona Ward
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Marcell Davidson
Michael Dawson
Josh Johnson
Male Welterweight 147lbs
Austin Dulay
Javonn Davis
Marcus Davidson
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Mauricio Javon King
Dayan Depestre
Malik Donovan Reid
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Devonte Williams
Nehemiah Jones
Frankie Solomon
Male Heavyweight 201+lbs
Devon Young
Demetrius Demeritte
Michael Nelson
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BKFC comes to Virginia on Friday |
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Reggie Barnett Jr. has dreamed of seeing the BKFC squared circle in his home state of Virginia. This week that dream becomes a reality for the Chesapeake, VA product. On Friday in Norfolk at the Scope Arena, Barnett Jr. (8-2, 2 KOs) defends his BKFC bantamweight championship against Daniel Alvarez (1-0, 1 KO) in the first ever BKFC event in the state of Virginia. The event will be shown live on The BKFC App. “This is a dream come true – being able to compete at the highest level of my sport in front of my fans, friends, family and all the people in my community,” Barnett Jr. says. People have seen the work that I’ve been putting in for the last four or five years, but most people have only seen it from afar. I can’t wait for them to have this opportunity to see it up close and personal.”
Barnett Jr. is #3 on the BKFC pound-for-pound rankings. On Friday night, he’ll become the first fighter in BKFC history to compete 11 times in the squared circle. Standing across from Barnett will be the decidedly less-seasoned Alvarez, who is coming off a first-round finish over JR Ridge in the flyweight division. That win was Alvarez's BKFC debut. He’s eager to ignite his young career with rocket fuel in the form of a victory over a Barnett.
“I see a hungry fighter, like me when I was starting out. He’s hungry to jump out the gate and prove that he belongs at the top. He comes to fight,” Barnett says of Alvarez. “He wants to fight, but there are levels and learning curves to this sport. We’re going to see how fast he can learn, or if he’s going to get educated like everybody else.”
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BKFC comes to Virginia on Friday
Reggie Barnett Jr. has dreamed of seeing the BKFC squared circle in his home state of Virginia. This week that dream becomes a reality for the Chesapeake, VA product. On Friday in Norfolk at the Scope Arena, Barnett Jr. (8-2, 2 KOs) defends his BKFC bantamweight championship against Daniel Alvarez (1-0, 1 KO) in the first ever BKFC event in the state of Virginia. The event will be shown live on The BKFC App. “This is a dream come true – being able to compete at the highest level of my sport in front of my fans, friends, family and all the people in my community,” Barnett Jr. says. People have seen the work that I’ve been putting in for the last four or five years, but most people have only seen it from afar. I can’t wait for them to have this opportunity to see it up close and personal.”
Barnett Jr. is #3 on the BKFC pound-for-pound rankings. On Friday night, he’ll become the first fighter in BKFC history to compete 11 times in the squared circle. Standing across from Barnett will be the decidedly less-seasoned Alvarez, who is coming off a first-round finish over JR Ridge in the flyweight division. That win was Alvarez's BKFC debut. He’s eager to ignite his young career with rocket fuel in the form of a victory over a Barnett.
“I see a hungry fighter, like me when I was starting out. He’s hungry to jump out the gate and prove that he belongs at the top. He comes to fight,” Barnett says of Alvarez. “He wants to fight, but there are levels and learning curves to this sport. We’re going to see how fast he can learn, or if he’s going to get educated like everybody else.”
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KSI to face Joe Fournier |
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Social media star KSI a/k/a Olajide Olatunji accepts his hardest challenge to date by taking on Joe Fournier on May 13th at the OVO Arena Wembley in London, live on DAZN and DAZN pay-per-view. KSI enters the ring after stopping Faze Temper in one round of a crossover fight earlier this year. [The businessman Fournier has had issues with banned performance enhancers] but is 9-0 as a pro fighter. Fournier once got in the ring with former heavyweight and cruiserweight champion David ‘Hayemaker’ Haye in an exhibition contest. KSI said: “I can’t wait to show the world what Jake Paul couldn’t, knock out a pro boxer. Each fight, people are seeing a better KSI and I’m honestly scared for Fournier because once I land my right or left hand on his chin, it’s night night. As soon as people enter the ring with me, they realise they are in hell. And they either leave the ring bruised, battered or sleeping. In the ring, I am an evil man.”
Fournier said: “This is huge, it’s as big as it gets, it’s on DAZN pay-per-view at Wembley, against one of the biggest global superstars, not just in boxing. But I am going to break a lot of little hearts when they see KSI unconscious on the canvas. This is way too soon to fight me, but the deal is done, and just like Jake Paul, he will find out that when he gets into the ring with a real boxer, it’s a whole different ball game. He is in for a rude awakening.”
Mams Taylor, Co-President of Misfits Boxing said: “Here we go! What a fight and what a night of crossover boxing this will be. KSI against Joe Fournier is huge, it’s mammoth and it’s guaranteed to deliver a night that London will never forget.”
Kalle Sauerland, Co-President of Misfits Boxing said: “Both KSI and Joe Fournier are coming for one thing, and one thing only – the knockout! London, get ready for a massive night of Misfits action and make sure you buy a ticket or tune-in because, make no mistake, this is the hardest test of KSI’s career to date.”
Joseph Markowski, CEO DAZN North America said: "KSI vs. Fournier is a fight you will not want to miss. Our third PPV of the X Series is guaranteed to bring all the action and even more unforgettable moments live on DAZN PPV May 13."
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KSI to face Joe Fournier
Social media star KSI a/k/a Olajide Olatunji accepts his hardest challenge to date by taking on Joe Fournier on May 13th at the OVO Arena Wembley in London, live on DAZN and DAZN pay-per-view. KSI enters the ring after stopping Faze Temper in one round of a crossover fight earlier this year. [The businessman Fournier has had issues with banned performance enhancers] but is 9-0 as a pro fighter. Fournier once got in the ring with former heavyweight and cruiserweight champion David ‘Hayemaker’ Haye in an exhibition contest. KSI said: “I can’t wait to show the world what Jake Paul couldn’t, knock out a pro boxer. Each fight, people are seeing a better KSI and I’m honestly scared for Fournier because once I land my right or left hand on his chin, it’s night night. As soon as people enter the ring with me, they realise they are in hell. And they either leave the ring bruised, battered or sleeping. In the ring, I am an evil man.”
Fournier said: “This is huge, it’s as big as it gets, it’s on DAZN pay-per-view at Wembley, against one of the biggest global superstars, not just in boxing. But I am going to break a lot of little hearts when they see KSI unconscious on the canvas. This is way too soon to fight me, but the deal is done, and just like Jake Paul, he will find out that when he gets into the ring with a real boxer, it’s a whole different ball game. He is in for a rude awakening.”
Mams Taylor, Co-President of Misfits Boxing said: “Here we go! What a fight and what a night of crossover boxing this will be. KSI against Joe Fournier is huge, it’s mammoth and it’s guaranteed to deliver a night that London will never forget.”
Kalle Sauerland, Co-President of Misfits Boxing said: “Both KSI and Joe Fournier are coming for one thing, and one thing only – the knockout! London, get ready for a massive night of Misfits action and make sure you buy a ticket or tune-in because, make no mistake, this is the hardest test of KSI’s career to date.”
Joseph Markowski, CEO DAZN North America said: "KSI vs. Fournier is a fight you will not want to miss. Our third PPV of the X Series is guaranteed to bring all the action and even more unforgettable moments live on DAZN PPV May 13."
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Late Result: Maribel Ramirez returns to win column |
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Maribel Ramirez W10 Michelle Preston... Former WBA 115-pound title holder Maribel “La Pantera” Ramirez defeated Michelle “Pressure” Preston via decision on Saturday night at the Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. From Mexico City, Ramirez (14-10-3) had not fought since losing her title last June 24th to Argentina’s Clara Lescurat. Before that, Ramirez had not defended her title since late 2018. Preston is now 11-9-1.
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Late Result: Maribel Ramirez returns to win column
Maribel Ramirez W10 Michelle Preston... Former WBA 115-pound title holder Maribel “La Pantera” Ramirez defeated Michelle “Pressure” Preston via decision on Saturday night at the Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. From Mexico City, Ramirez (14-10-3) had not fought since losing her title last June 24th to Argentina’s Clara Lescurat. Before that, Ramirez had not defended her title since late 2018. Preston is now 11-9-1.
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Report: Inoue injured; Fulton fight will be postponed |
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Former world bantamweight champion Naoya "Monster" Inoue has suffered a training injury and will have to postpone his plans to challenge two-belt super bantamweight champion Stephen Fulton, which was scheduled to take place in Japan on May 7th. ESPN first reported the injury. As translated by the Sporting News, Inoue said, "I am writing to inform you that the title match scheduled for May 7th will (be postponed) due to a fist injury sustained during training. I apologize to all parties involved and to Fulton and his associates for any inconvenience this may cause. I am also very sorry to the fans who have been looking forward to the match. I have decided that it will be extremely difficult for me to enter the ring in perfect condition [on May 7th]. It was a difficult decision to make, but we have come to this decision. First of all, I will work hard to recover from my injury so that I can enter the ring in perfect condition. Then, I will make my best preparations so that I can present an exciting match to all the fans. I would be happy if you could look forward to that fight." No make-up date has been provided yet. PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE MARCH 6, 2023: Naoya “Monster” Inoue conquered the bantamweight division. He’s now moving up in weight to capture the biggest fish at 122 pounds. WBC / WBO junior featherweight champion Stephen Fulton (pictured) will defend his titles against Japan’s pound-for-pound king Sunday, May 7th, at Yokohama Arena in Yokohama, Japan. The showdown pits two of the world’s top fighters, as Inoue aims to become only the fifth Asian boxer to win world titles in four weight classes.
Inoue (24-0, 21 KOs) is 19-0 with 17 knockouts in world title fights, a championship run that started in 2014 when he knocked out Adrian Hernandez for the WBC light flyweight world title. He went on to rule the junior bantamweight division with seven title defenses, including a second-round stoppage over Omar Narvaez. At bantamweight, Inoue became the division’s first undisputed champion in a half-century, stopping Emmanuel Rodriguez in two rounds to win the IBF strap, outlasting Nonito Donaire in the 2019 Fight of the Year to add the WBA belt, starching Donaire in the second round of their June 2022 rematch to snatch the WBC title, and stopping then-WBO champion Paul Butler in the 11th round. Inoue vacated all four bantamweight titles to move up four pounds for a shot at “Cool Boy Steph.”
From Philadelphia, Fulton (21-0, 8 KOs) turned pro in 2014 and defeated five undefeated prospects in his first 12 bouts. In January 2021, he defeated Angelo Leo to capture the WBO junior featherweight world title. Ten months later, he added the WBC belt to his collection with a majority decision over then-unbeaten Brandon Figueroa in one of the year’s most action-packed championship showdowns. Fulton defended both titles last June with a one-sided unanimous decision over former unified world champion Daniel Roman. Fulton will enter the Inoue bout, his first away from American soil, coming off an 11-month layoff. The 28-year-old Fulton, however, is the naturally bigger man, holding advantages in height and reach.
JAN. 18, 2023: The WBO has released its rankings for January 2023 and there is a new contender atop its 122-pound listings. Just days after he vacated his four title belts, former undisputed world bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue (pictured) is now the WBO's #1 ranked super bantamweight contender. The champion is Stephen Fulton, who also reigns at the WBC champion. Dropped to the #2 spot is Ra'eese Aleem, who has already expressed an interest in fighting Inoue.
JAN. 13, 2023: World 118-pound champion Naoya Inoue announced that he will make the jump to the super bantamweight division in his next fight and therefore will vacate his 118-pound titles. Inoue held all four major titles, which means his announcement will create championship opportunities for up to eight bantamweights. The WBA reports that at a press conference held in Yokohama, Japan, "Monster" Inoue told the press that he will be looking for new challenges in his career after having dominated the bantamweight division. The 29 year-old Japanese star stressed that he is in the process of adapting to his new weight and that he is already looking for the best opponents in the category to face them.
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Report: Inoue injured; Fulton fight will be postponed
Former world bantamweight champion Naoya "Monster" Inoue has suffered a training injury and will have to postpone his plans to challenge two-belt super bantamweight champion Stephen Fulton, which was scheduled to take place in Japan on May 7th. ESPN first reported the injury. As translated by the Sporting News, Inoue said, "I am writing to inform you that the title match scheduled for May 7th will (be postponed) due to a fist injury sustained during training. I apologize to all parties involved and to Fulton and his associates for any inconvenience this may cause. I am also very sorry to the fans who have been looking forward to the match. I have decided that it will be extremely difficult for me to enter the ring in perfect condition [on May 7th]. It was a difficult decision to make, but we have come to this decision. First of all, I will work hard to recover from my injury so that I can enter the ring in perfect condition. Then, I will make my best preparations so that I can present an exciting match to all the fans. I would be happy if you could look forward to that fight." No make-up date has been provided yet. PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE MARCH 6, 2023: Naoya “Monster” Inoue conquered the bantamweight division. He’s now moving up in weight to capture the biggest fish at 122 pounds. WBC / WBO junior featherweight champion Stephen Fulton (pictured) will defend his titles against Japan’s pound-for-pound king Sunday, May 7th, at Yokohama Arena in Yokohama, Japan. The showdown pits two of the world’s top fighters, as Inoue aims to become only the fifth Asian boxer to win world titles in four weight classes.
Inoue (24-0, 21 KOs) is 19-0 with 17 knockouts in world title fights, a championship run that started in 2014 when he knocked out Adrian Hernandez for the WBC light flyweight world title. He went on to rule the junior bantamweight division with seven title defenses, including a second-round stoppage over Omar Narvaez. At bantamweight, Inoue became the division’s first undisputed champion in a half-century, stopping Emmanuel Rodriguez in two rounds to win the IBF strap, outlasting Nonito Donaire in the 2019 Fight of the Year to add the WBA belt, starching Donaire in the second round of their June 2022 rematch to snatch the WBC title, and stopping then-WBO champion Paul Butler in the 11th round. Inoue vacated all four bantamweight titles to move up four pounds for a shot at “Cool Boy Steph.”
From Philadelphia, Fulton (21-0, 8 KOs) turned pro in 2014 and defeated five undefeated prospects in his first 12 bouts. In January 2021, he defeated Angelo Leo to capture the WBO junior featherweight world title. Ten months later, he added the WBC belt to his collection with a majority decision over then-unbeaten Brandon Figueroa in one of the year’s most action-packed championship showdowns. Fulton defended both titles last June with a one-sided unanimous decision over former unified world champion Daniel Roman. Fulton will enter the Inoue bout, his first away from American soil, coming off an 11-month layoff. The 28-year-old Fulton, however, is the naturally bigger man, holding advantages in height and reach.
JAN. 18, 2023: The WBO has released its rankings for January 2023 and there is a new contender atop its 122-pound listings. Just days after he vacated his four title belts, former undisputed world bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue (pictured) is now the WBO's #1 ranked super bantamweight contender. The champion is Stephen Fulton, who also reigns at the WBC champion. Dropped to the #2 spot is Ra'eese Aleem, who has already expressed an interest in fighting Inoue.
JAN. 13, 2023: World 118-pound champion Naoya Inoue announced that he will make the jump to the super bantamweight division in his next fight and therefore will vacate his 118-pound titles. Inoue held all four major titles, which means his announcement will create championship opportunities for up to eight bantamweights. The WBA reports that at a press conference held in Yokohama, Japan, "Monster" Inoue told the press that he will be looking for new challenges in his career after having dominated the bantamweight division. The 29 year-old Japanese star stressed that he is in the process of adapting to his new weight and that he is already looking for the best opponents in the category to face them.
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Rosales vs. Alvarado purse bid on tap for Thursday |
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UPDATE: The IBF announced it will move forward with a pruse bid for a flyweight eliminator between Cristofer Rosales and Felix Alvarado, which has been scheduled for Thursday, March 23rd at 12:00PM Eastern Time. On January 12th, the IBF ordered Cristofer Rosales and Felix Alvarado to begin negotiations for an IBF flyweight eliminator. An agreement could not be reached within the time frame allowed by the IBF, so a purse bid was scheduled for March 23rd. Both men are from Nicaragua. Rosales is 35-6 and a former WBC champion. Alvarado is 38-3 and a former IBF junior flyweight champion. The current IBF flyweight champion is Sunny Edwards of the United Kingdom.
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Rosales vs. Alvarado purse bid on tap for Thursday
UPDATE: The IBF announced it will move forward with a pruse bid for a flyweight eliminator between Cristofer Rosales and Felix Alvarado, which has been scheduled for Thursday, March 23rd at 12:00PM Eastern Time. On January 12th, the IBF ordered Cristofer Rosales and Felix Alvarado to begin negotiations for an IBF flyweight eliminator. An agreement could not be reached within the time frame allowed by the IBF, so a purse bid was scheduled for March 23rd. Both men are from Nicaragua. Rosales is 35-6 and a former WBC champion. Alvarado is 38-3 and a former IBF junior flyweight champion. The current IBF flyweight champion is Sunny Edwards of the United Kingdom.
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Luis Alberto Lopez to defend title vs. Mick Conlan |
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Mexico's Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez will make the first defense of his IBF featherweight title against Michael “Mick” Conlan on Saturday, May 27th at The SSE Arena in Conlan’s hometown of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Lopez captured the title last December, venturing to Josh Warrington’s home base of Leeds, England, to grind out a majority decision. Lopez-Conlan and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the United States. BT Sport will broadcast the event in the UK and Ireland. Promoted by Top Rank and Conlan Boxing, in association with Queensberry Promotions, tickets go on sale Friday, March 31st at 11 a.m. local time via www.Ticketmaster.ie.
“Belfast hasn’t had a big world title fight in six years. Michael’s fans have traveled far and wide throughout his career and now they get to create the cauldron-like atmosphere that the SSE Arena is known for in the biggest fight of his career. Luis Alberto Lopez is a very dangerous fighter and a fantastic champion that has a reputation of going to the enemy’s backyard and upsetting the apple cart, so we are in for a barnburner on May 27th,” said Conlan Boxing CEO Jamie Conlan.
Lopez (27-2, 15 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico, navigated bumpy terrain to become a champion. After early-career defeats to Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa stunted his momentum, Lopez thrilled American fight fans with a July 2020 split decision victory over Andy Vences inside the MGM Grand Bubble. Fourteen months later, he dominated then-unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over ten rounds. Lopez then moved down to featherweight and stopped another undefeated foe, Isaac Lowe, in seven rounds at London’s York Hall. After two stay-busy wins, he received his shot at the title, turning an expected triumphant Leeds homecoming into disappointment for Warrington's partisan fans.
“I am a road warrior. Traveling to my opponent’s home country doesn’t faze me,” Lopez said. “I won my world title in Leeds, and now it's time to defend it in Belfast. The louder they cheer for Michael, the harder I will fight. The IBF title will remain in Mexico. May 27th will be a special night for me, and Michael’s fans will go home disappointed.”
Conlan (24-4 including the World Series of Boxing) turned pro in 2017 after a decorated Irish amateur career that included two Olympic berths, an Olympic bronze medal, and gold medals at the World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games. His double middle finger salute to the judges at the 2016 Rio Olympics turned him into a fighting folk hero, and as a pro, he has proven himself on the world stage. Last March, he nearly captured the WBA featherweight crown from Leigh Wood in Wood’s hometown of Nottingham, England. Conlan, ahead on all three scorecards, was knocked out in the 12th round of ESPN's Fight of the Year. The Wood disappointment did not linger, as Conlan came back later that year with victories over Miguel Marriaga and Karim Guerfi at The SSE Arena. Five months after knocking out Guerfi in one round, Conlan returns to the friendly SSE Arena confines, prepared to seize his championship moment.
“This is a massive opportunity. Fighting for the world title in Belfast is something I’ve always dreamed of, and I will be taking this opportunity with both hands.” Conlan said. “The SSE Arena will be buzzing, and I will do everything I can to bring a world title home. Credit to Lopez for coming to Belfast, but I am taking his title. He is not prepared for what is coming his way on May 27. Ireland will see a new champion crowned.”
“The passionate Belfast fans will pack The SSE Arena hoping to lift their hero, Michael Conlan, to a world title. I also know that Luis Alberto Lopez thrives in enemy territory and will not relinquish his title without a tremendous fight,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.
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Luis Alberto Lopez to defend title vs. Mick Conlan
Mexico's Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez will make the first defense of his IBF featherweight title against Michael “Mick” Conlan on Saturday, May 27th at The SSE Arena in Conlan’s hometown of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Lopez captured the title last December, venturing to Josh Warrington’s home base of Leeds, England, to grind out a majority decision. Lopez-Conlan and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the United States. BT Sport will broadcast the event in the UK and Ireland. Promoted by Top Rank and Conlan Boxing, in association with Queensberry Promotions, tickets go on sale Friday, March 31st at 11 a.m. local time via www.Ticketmaster.ie.
“Belfast hasn’t had a big world title fight in six years. Michael’s fans have traveled far and wide throughout his career and now they get to create the cauldron-like atmosphere that the SSE Arena is known for in the biggest fight of his career. Luis Alberto Lopez is a very dangerous fighter and a fantastic champion that has a reputation of going to the enemy’s backyard and upsetting the apple cart, so we are in for a barnburner on May 27th,” said Conlan Boxing CEO Jamie Conlan.
Lopez (27-2, 15 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico, navigated bumpy terrain to become a champion. After early-career defeats to Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa stunted his momentum, Lopez thrilled American fight fans with a July 2020 split decision victory over Andy Vences inside the MGM Grand Bubble. Fourteen months later, he dominated then-unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over ten rounds. Lopez then moved down to featherweight and stopped another undefeated foe, Isaac Lowe, in seven rounds at London’s York Hall. After two stay-busy wins, he received his shot at the title, turning an expected triumphant Leeds homecoming into disappointment for Warrington's partisan fans.
“I am a road warrior. Traveling to my opponent’s home country doesn’t faze me,” Lopez said. “I won my world title in Leeds, and now it's time to defend it in Belfast. The louder they cheer for Michael, the harder I will fight. The IBF title will remain in Mexico. May 27th will be a special night for me, and Michael’s fans will go home disappointed.”
Conlan (24-4 including the World Series of Boxing) turned pro in 2017 after a decorated Irish amateur career that included two Olympic berths, an Olympic bronze medal, and gold medals at the World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games. His double middle finger salute to the judges at the 2016 Rio Olympics turned him into a fighting folk hero, and as a pro, he has proven himself on the world stage. Last March, he nearly captured the WBA featherweight crown from Leigh Wood in Wood’s hometown of Nottingham, England. Conlan, ahead on all three scorecards, was knocked out in the 12th round of ESPN's Fight of the Year. The Wood disappointment did not linger, as Conlan came back later that year with victories over Miguel Marriaga and Karim Guerfi at The SSE Arena. Five months after knocking out Guerfi in one round, Conlan returns to the friendly SSE Arena confines, prepared to seize his championship moment.
“This is a massive opportunity. Fighting for the world title in Belfast is something I’ve always dreamed of, and I will be taking this opportunity with both hands.” Conlan said. “The SSE Arena will be buzzing, and I will do everything I can to bring a world title home. Credit to Lopez for coming to Belfast, but I am taking his title. He is not prepared for what is coming his way on May 27. Ireland will see a new champion crowned.”
“The passionate Belfast fans will pack The SSE Arena hoping to lift their hero, Michael Conlan, to a world title. I also know that Luis Alberto Lopez thrives in enemy territory and will not relinquish his title without a tremendous fight,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.
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Some familiar names surface in Team Combat League |
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Team Combat League proudly announced the rosters today of the two teams facing off on March 29th at Connecticut's Mohegan Sun, the opening night of the league’s inaugural season. The New York City Attitude will be coached by Benny Roman and Ryan O’Leary facing off against the Los Angeles Ten Goose, coached by Ricky Funez. There are some familiar names on the roster, with the rules calling for one-round bouts. The LA roster lists Sean Garcia and Ashton Sylve, two undefeated lightweights. Sylve's career war previously linked to Jake Paul's MVP Promotions and he last fought on the undercard of Paul vs. Anderson Silva in October. At middleweight, LA lists Alejandro Silva (20-0-1), while New York has rostered Pete Dobson (16-0). At welterweight, LA has Vlad Panin (16-1) while New York names Jamshidbek Najmitdinov (18-2) among the eligible boxers. NOTE: The actual match-ups in Team Combat League are not known in advance because the coaches alternate in selecting the match-ups. A coach may match up one of three fighters in every weight class provided the matchups have been approved by the Boxing Commission. Spectators are therefore in the dark as to which fighter will fight who and when until the decision is made by coaches in real time. This uncertainty, combined with the fast paced three-minute round per boxer format results in constant action in which the spectator literally has no idea what is coming next.
“We are humbled and excited to be appearing in the historic first night Team Combat League Match action," Ricky Funez, LA Ten Goose coach declared. “No one is going to remember the loser of the first match. We intend to be remembered."
“We are looking forward to the challenge of facing a strong LA team in the opening night of Team Combat League action," NYC coach Ryan O’Leary countered. "We expect the depth of our team to overwhelm LA, however.”
“No West Coast Team is coming to our turf and stopping us from making history," Benny Roman, NYC Attitude coach added. "We are just too strong all through the roster for that to happen.”
NEW YORK ROSTER
Male Lightweight
Sherbek Rakhmatulloyev
Titus Williams
Jonibek Khomatov
Male Welterweight
Jamshidbek Najmitdinov
Darrius Jackson
Charles Garner
Male Middleweight
Peter Dobson
Christian Cangelos
Male Light Heavyweight
Ralph Clemente
Afunwa King
Fred Julan
Male Heavyweight
Pryce Taylor
Conja Nathan
Earl Newman
Female Featherweight
Nicole Ocasio
Trudy Li
Jaica Pavilus
LOS ANGELES ROSTER:
Male Lightweight
Ashton Sylvie
Sean Garcia
Sean Bates
Male Welterweight
Juan Funez
Vlad Panin
Franco Ocampo
Male Middleweight
Alejandro Silva
Joshua Connley
Male Light Heavyweight
Ronald Ellis
Martin Higuta
Angel Lozano
Male Heavyweight
Siala Mou Siliga
Duvall Cashton Young
Austin Wolf
Female Featherweight
Iyana Verduczo
Lizette Lopez
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Some familiar names surface in Team Combat League
Team Combat League proudly announced the rosters today of the two teams facing off on March 29th at Connecticut's Mohegan Sun, the opening night of the league’s inaugural season. The New York City Attitude will be coached by Benny Roman and Ryan O’Leary facing off against the Los Angeles Ten Goose, coached by Ricky Funez. There are some familiar names on the roster, with the rules calling for one-round bouts. The LA roster lists Sean Garcia and Ashton Sylve, two undefeated lightweights. Sylve's career war previously linked to Jake Paul's MVP Promotions and he last fought on the undercard of Paul vs. Anderson Silva in October. At middleweight, LA lists Alejandro Silva (20-0-1), while New York has rostered Pete Dobson (16-0). At welterweight, LA has Vlad Panin (16-1) while New York names Jamshidbek Najmitdinov (18-2) among the eligible boxers. NOTE: The actual match-ups in Team Combat League are not known in advance because the coaches alternate in selecting the match-ups. A coach may match up one of three fighters in every weight class provided the matchups have been approved by the Boxing Commission. Spectators are therefore in the dark as to which fighter will fight who and when until the decision is made by coaches in real time. This uncertainty, combined with the fast paced three-minute round per boxer format results in constant action in which the spectator literally has no idea what is coming next.
“We are humbled and excited to be appearing in the historic first night Team Combat League Match action," Ricky Funez, LA Ten Goose coach declared. “No one is going to remember the loser of the first match. We intend to be remembered."
“We are looking forward to the challenge of facing a strong LA team in the opening night of Team Combat League action," NYC coach Ryan O’Leary countered. "We expect the depth of our team to overwhelm LA, however.”
“No West Coast Team is coming to our turf and stopping us from making history," Benny Roman, NYC Attitude coach added. "We are just too strong all through the roster for that to happen.”
NEW YORK ROSTER
Male Lightweight
Sherbek Rakhmatulloyev
Titus Williams
Jonibek Khomatov
Male Welterweight
Jamshidbek Najmitdinov
Darrius Jackson
Charles Garner
Male Middleweight
Peter Dobson
Christian Cangelos
Male Light Heavyweight
Ralph Clemente
Afunwa King
Fred Julan
Male Heavyweight
Pryce Taylor
Conja Nathan
Earl Newman
Female Featherweight
Nicole Ocasio
Trudy Li
Jaica Pavilus
LOS ANGELES ROSTER:
Male Lightweight
Ashton Sylvie
Sean Garcia
Sean Bates
Male Welterweight
Juan Funez
Vlad Panin
Franco Ocampo
Male Middleweight
Alejandro Silva
Joshua Connley
Male Light Heavyweight
Ronald Ellis
Martin Higuta
Angel Lozano
Male Heavyweight
Siala Mou Siliga
Duvall Cashton Young
Austin Wolf
Female Featherweight
Iyana Verduczo
Lizette Lopez
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Watch: Sergio Martinez scores a KO1 |
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Sergio Martinez KO1 Jhon Teheran... Former world middleweight champion Sergio Martinez is still plugging away at age 48. Fighting in his home county of Argentina, Martinez landed a combination that knocked out Jhon Teheran in the first round on Tuesday. Teheran is a 38 year-old Colombian who is now 18-3. Martinez (57-3-2) has now won six straight since his 2020 comeback started following six years out of the ring.
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Watch: Sergio Martinez scores a KO1
Sergio Martinez KO1 Jhon Teheran... Former world middleweight champion Sergio Martinez is still plugging away at age 48. Fighting in his home county of Argentina, Martinez landed a combination that knocked out Jhon Teheran in the first round on Tuesday. Teheran is a 38 year-old Colombian who is now 18-3. Martinez (57-3-2) has now won six straight since his 2020 comeback started following six years out of the ring.
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Thursday's Montreal show to air on ESPN+ |
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U.S. boxing fans can watch a Canadian boxing show on ESPN+ tomorrow (Thursday) when super middleweight knockout artist Christian Mbilli takes on two-time Ecuadorian Olympian Carlos Gongora in a ten-round main event from the Montreal Casino. Mbilli-Gongora and undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ on Thursday starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Mbilli (22-0, 20 KOs) is a 2016 French Olympian who is inching closer to a world title opportunity. The 27-year old is coming off a successful 2022 in which he scored knockout wins over Nadjib Mohammedi and DeAndre Ware, along with a decision victory last December over Vaughn Alexander.
Gongora (21-1, 16 KOs) represented Ecuador in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics before turning pro in 2015. In 2020, he scored an upset knockout victory over Ali Akhmedov. He then stopped Christopher Pearson in 2021 before losing a close decision to Lerrone Richards. The 33-year-old southpaw is coming off a fourth-round TKO over Oscar Riojas last August.
In other streaming action from Montreal:
Canadian Olympian Simon Kean (22-1, 21 KOs) faces his stiffest challenge yet against two-time world title challenger Eric Molina (29-8, 21 KOs). Kean was 15-0 with 14 knockouts before an upset loss to Dillon Carman in 2018. He avenged that loss the following year as part of a seven-fight knockout win streak.
Junior welterweight Steve Claggett (33-7-2, 23 KOs) will attempt to score his fifth straight KO victory in a ten-round tilt against Mexico’s Rafael Guzman Lugo (26-2-2, 16 KOs).
Lightweight Luis Santana (8-0, 2 KOs) returns to the ring in an eight-round fight against Francisco Arturo Ramirez Martinez (11-4, 6 KOs) of Veracruz, Mexico.
In a battle of undefeated junior lightweights, Canada’s Leila Beaudoin (8-0, 1 KO) will collide against Mexico’s Laura Avendano Mondragon (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.
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Thursday's Montreal show to air on ESPN+
U.S. boxing fans can watch a Canadian boxing show on ESPN+ tomorrow (Thursday) when super middleweight knockout artist Christian Mbilli takes on two-time Ecuadorian Olympian Carlos Gongora in a ten-round main event from the Montreal Casino. Mbilli-Gongora and undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ on Thursday starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Mbilli (22-0, 20 KOs) is a 2016 French Olympian who is inching closer to a world title opportunity. The 27-year old is coming off a successful 2022 in which he scored knockout wins over Nadjib Mohammedi and DeAndre Ware, along with a decision victory last December over Vaughn Alexander.
Gongora (21-1, 16 KOs) represented Ecuador in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics before turning pro in 2015. In 2020, he scored an upset knockout victory over Ali Akhmedov. He then stopped Christopher Pearson in 2021 before losing a close decision to Lerrone Richards. The 33-year-old southpaw is coming off a fourth-round TKO over Oscar Riojas last August.
In other streaming action from Montreal:
Canadian Olympian Simon Kean (22-1, 21 KOs) faces his stiffest challenge yet against two-time world title challenger Eric Molina (29-8, 21 KOs). Kean was 15-0 with 14 knockouts before an upset loss to Dillon Carman in 2018. He avenged that loss the following year as part of a seven-fight knockout win streak.
Junior welterweight Steve Claggett (33-7-2, 23 KOs) will attempt to score his fifth straight KO victory in a ten-round tilt against Mexico’s Rafael Guzman Lugo (26-2-2, 16 KOs).
Lightweight Luis Santana (8-0, 2 KOs) returns to the ring in an eight-round fight against Francisco Arturo Ramirez Martinez (11-4, 6 KOs) of Veracruz, Mexico.
In a battle of undefeated junior lightweights, Canada’s Leila Beaudoin (8-0, 1 KO) will collide against Mexico’s Laura Avendano Mondragon (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.
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Showtime reveals two freestream bouts for Saturday |
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Showtime's PPV Countdown Show, this Saturday, March 25th, will freestream two bouts before the David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant pay-per-view event that takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Unbeaten super bantamweight Kevin Gonzalez will battle Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin in a ten-round duel, while Cuban junior welterweight Orestes Velazquez takes on Argentina’s Marcelino Lopez in another ten rounder. The live streaming presentation will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel and Showtime Boxing Facebook page and will be hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell. These fights will lead up to the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
The 2 -year-old González (25-0-1, 13 KOs) made a successful U.S. debut in May 2022, earning a unanimous decision over Emanuel Rivera Nieves in a ten-round fight. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over Ivan Morales in March 2021. González stopped Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. He takes on the 30 year-old Sanmartin (34-6-1, 21 KOs), who most recently won a unanimous decision over Miguel Martinez in December 2022. The Arboletes, Colombia-native has losses against current featherweight champion Mauricio Lara and current super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete during a pro career that dates back to 2011.
A native of Cuba now residing in Miami, Velazquez (6-0, 6 KOs) has stopped each opponent he’s faced since turning pro in October 2020 following a prolific amateur career. The 30-year old added four victories in 2022, including most recently stopping Guillermo Leonel Crocco in the first round of their December 2022 clash. He will be opposed by Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Lopez (37-2-1, 22 KOs), who enters this fight having won his last five outings, including triumphs over veteran contenders Pablo Cesar Cano and Breidis Prescott. The 36-year old has a 5-1 record stateside, with his only blemish coming via-split decision against Michael Perez in 2017.
The non-televised undercard lineup will be highlighted by a battle of unbeatens as Las Vegas super featherweight Demler Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs) battles Arizona’s Jesus Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showdown. Rounding out the action is super middleweight Daniel Blancas (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round attraction facing Texas-native Nicholas Molina (4-1-1, 4 KOs), super featherweight Robert Meriwether III (3-0, 2 KOs) dueling Mexico’s Jesus Perez (14-15-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round fight, and super featherweight Dorian Khan Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round fight.
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Showtime reveals two freestream bouts for Saturday
Showtime's PPV Countdown Show, this Saturday, March 25th, will freestream two bouts before the David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant pay-per-view event that takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Unbeaten super bantamweight Kevin Gonzalez will battle Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin in a ten-round duel, while Cuban junior welterweight Orestes Velazquez takes on Argentina’s Marcelino Lopez in another ten rounder. The live streaming presentation will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel and Showtime Boxing Facebook page and will be hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell. These fights will lead up to the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
The 2 -year-old González (25-0-1, 13 KOs) made a successful U.S. debut in May 2022, earning a unanimous decision over Emanuel Rivera Nieves in a ten-round fight. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over Ivan Morales in March 2021. González stopped Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. He takes on the 30 year-old Sanmartin (34-6-1, 21 KOs), who most recently won a unanimous decision over Miguel Martinez in December 2022. The Arboletes, Colombia-native has losses against current featherweight champion Mauricio Lara and current super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete during a pro career that dates back to 2011.
A native of Cuba now residing in Miami, Velazquez (6-0, 6 KOs) has stopped each opponent he’s faced since turning pro in October 2020 following a prolific amateur career. The 30-year old added four victories in 2022, including most recently stopping Guillermo Leonel Crocco in the first round of their December 2022 clash. He will be opposed by Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Lopez (37-2-1, 22 KOs), who enters this fight having won his last five outings, including triumphs over veteran contenders Pablo Cesar Cano and Breidis Prescott. The 36-year old has a 5-1 record stateside, with his only blemish coming via-split decision against Michael Perez in 2017.
The non-televised undercard lineup will be highlighted by a battle of unbeatens as Las Vegas super featherweight Demler Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs) battles Arizona’s Jesus Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showdown. Rounding out the action is super middleweight Daniel Blancas (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round attraction facing Texas-native Nicholas Molina (4-1-1, 4 KOs), super featherweight Robert Meriwether III (3-0, 2 KOs) dueling Mexico’s Jesus Perez (14-15-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round fight, and super featherweight Dorian Khan Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round fight.
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Tonight: ProBox action from Florida |
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ProBox TV will return tonight (March 22nd) with a show from Plant City, Florida at 8 PM EST. The scheduled ten-round main event featuring Mexican southpaw Jorge Lara (29-2-2) has been postponed due to a hand injury. It will be rescheduled at a later date on ProBox TV. The new main event comes from the lightweight division, with Mexico's Angel ‘El Chocolatito’ Vazquez (12-0) squaring off against Canadian-based Guinean Mohamed ‘El Bufalo Negro’ Soumaoro (12-1) over ten rounds. Vazquez comes off a points victory over the unbeaten Nicholas Sullivan in December, with Soumaoro taking the zero away from Jusiyah Shirley in his most previous bout. Subsequently both fighters picked up a victory in their American debuts in their last fight against an undefeated opponent.
Somebody’s 0 will have to go on the undercard Kentuckian Demontaze Duncan (8-0) goes to battle with Puerto Rican Axl Melendez (5-0). The two knockout artists open the televised card at 147 pounds in a six-round duel. Duncan retired Tyrone Crawley in the second round in his last outing, Melendez will make his American debut.
T If you aren't already a subscriber, you can sign up for $1.99 per month to watch this and all previous ProBox events, as well original content. The commentary comes from former world champions Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri alongside Mike Goldberg in English. The Spanish speaking team will consist of Claudia Trejos and Mexican hero Juan Manuel Márquez.
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Tonight: ProBox action from Florida
ProBox TV will return tonight (March 22nd) with a show from Plant City, Florida at 8 PM EST. The scheduled ten-round main event featuring Mexican southpaw Jorge Lara (29-2-2) has been postponed due to a hand injury. It will be rescheduled at a later date on ProBox TV. The new main event comes from the lightweight division, with Mexico's Angel ‘El Chocolatito’ Vazquez (12-0) squaring off against Canadian-based Guinean Mohamed ‘El Bufalo Negro’ Soumaoro (12-1) over ten rounds. Vazquez comes off a points victory over the unbeaten Nicholas Sullivan in December, with Soumaoro taking the zero away from Jusiyah Shirley in his most previous bout. Subsequently both fighters picked up a victory in their American debuts in their last fight against an undefeated opponent.
Somebody’s 0 will have to go on the undercard Kentuckian Demontaze Duncan (8-0) goes to battle with Puerto Rican Axl Melendez (5-0). The two knockout artists open the televised card at 147 pounds in a six-round duel. Duncan retired Tyrone Crawley in the second round in his last outing, Melendez will make his American debut.
T If you aren't already a subscriber, you can sign up for $1.99 per month to watch this and all previous ProBox events, as well original content. The commentary comes from former world champions Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri alongside Mike Goldberg in English. The Spanish speaking team will consist of Claudia Trejos and Mexican hero Juan Manuel Márquez.
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Wright vs. Howard heavyweight fight to headline PA show in April |
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RDR Promotions returns to the Clarion Hotel in Essington, Pennsylvania on Friday, April 14th as heavyweights Junior Wright and Brian Howard slug it out in the six-round main event. In the six-round co-feature, welterweight Mark Dawson Jr. will be in action against Jose Mayoral. Fresh off an October knockout of Colby Madison, Wright of Delaware County is 19-4-1 with 16 KOs. The 36 year-old Wright also holds a quality win over Nick Kisner (12-0-1). On May 21, 2016, Wright challenged Beibut Shumenov for the WBA regular cruiserweight title, getting stopped in ten rounds.
Howard of Loganville, Georgia has a record of 15-5 with 12 KOs. The 42- year old has wins over Chris Stallworth (9-2), Alex Guerrero (12-0-1), Shawndell Winters (8-0) and Carlos Negron (20-2). Howard is coming off a loss to Efe Ajagba on April 10, 2021.
Dawson of Philadelphia, is promoted by RDR Promotions and has a pro record of 10-1-1 with four knockouts. The 25-year old has been a pro for seven years, and has a win over Ivan Pandzic (13-0-1). Dawson is coming off a fourth-round stoppage over Vincent Floyd on September 23, 2022 in Essington, PA
Mayoral of New Orleans, Louisiana is 5-2-1 with one knockout. Mayoral holds a big win over Boubacar Sylla (12-0). Mayoral is coming off a draw with Ibrahim Robinson (4-0) on January 21st in Tampa, Florida.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
In a six-round bout, Angel Perez (7-0, 6 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA takes on upset-specialist Kieron Hooks (4-2-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia at welterweight.
In another six-round bout, Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Eric Manriquez (7-15-1, 3 KOs) of Houston in a featherweight contest.
In a four-round bout, Antonio Dubose (13-2-2, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Phillip Davis (3-5-2) of Worcester, Mass. in a lightweight affair.
Seeing action against opponents to be named will be RDR Promotions fighters: junior welterweight Marvelous Corbin (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia; bantamweight Edwin Cortes (3-0 of Millville, NJ and welterweight Nimal Farmer (3-0, 3 KOs) of Lindenwold, NJ
The Clarion Hotel is located at 76 Industrial Highway in Essington, PA
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Wright vs. Howard heavyweight fight to headline PA show in April
RDR Promotions returns to the Clarion Hotel in Essington, Pennsylvania on Friday, April 14th as heavyweights Junior Wright and Brian Howard slug it out in the six-round main event. In the six-round co-feature, welterweight Mark Dawson Jr. will be in action against Jose Mayoral. Fresh off an October knockout of Colby Madison, Wright of Delaware County is 19-4-1 with 16 KOs. The 36 year-old Wright also holds a quality win over Nick Kisner (12-0-1). On May 21, 2016, Wright challenged Beibut Shumenov for the WBA regular cruiserweight title, getting stopped in ten rounds.
Howard of Loganville, Georgia has a record of 15-5 with 12 KOs. The 42- year old has wins over Chris Stallworth (9-2), Alex Guerrero (12-0-1), Shawndell Winters (8-0) and Carlos Negron (20-2). Howard is coming off a loss to Efe Ajagba on April 10, 2021.
Dawson of Philadelphia, is promoted by RDR Promotions and has a pro record of 10-1-1 with four knockouts. The 25-year old has been a pro for seven years, and has a win over Ivan Pandzic (13-0-1). Dawson is coming off a fourth-round stoppage over Vincent Floyd on September 23, 2022 in Essington, PA
Mayoral of New Orleans, Louisiana is 5-2-1 with one knockout. Mayoral holds a big win over Boubacar Sylla (12-0). Mayoral is coming off a draw with Ibrahim Robinson (4-0) on January 21st in Tampa, Florida.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
In a six-round bout, Angel Perez (7-0, 6 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA takes on upset-specialist Kieron Hooks (4-2-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia at welterweight.
In another six-round bout, Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Eric Manriquez (7-15-1, 3 KOs) of Houston in a featherweight contest.
In a four-round bout, Antonio Dubose (13-2-2, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Phillip Davis (3-5-2) of Worcester, Mass. in a lightweight affair.
Seeing action against opponents to be named will be RDR Promotions fighters: junior welterweight Marvelous Corbin (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia; bantamweight Edwin Cortes (3-0 of Millville, NJ and welterweight Nimal Farmer (3-0, 3 KOs) of Lindenwold, NJ
The Clarion Hotel is located at 76 Industrial Highway in Essington, PA
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Introducing Baltimore junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones |
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Jeter Promotions has announced the signing of junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones to a promotional contract. Jones, age 23 years and from Baltimore, is 4-0 with two knockouts. All four of his wins have come on Jeter Promotions cards, and the news of the signing makes it official that he will be with Jeter Promotions going forward. "Tony Jeter is doing an amazing job, and he is keeping fighters active and doing great things. He is staying busy by doing shows in different areas. I could see myself fighting in the different spots that Tony promotes such as Atlanta, Pennsylvania and Maryland," said Jones.
Jones is trained by Marvin McDowell. He started boxing at the age of 13, and had 35 amateur fights. He considers himself a boxer-puncher. He turned professional on December 3, 2021 with a first-round stoppage over Joshua Zimmerman in Philadelphia. Jones also has a win over Kani Burnside. In his latest outing, Jones won a four-round unanimous decision over Michael Crain on February 18th in Hanover, Maryland..
"I am working on building my record and hopefully get on TV and fight for any belt that is available. Tony can bring me to be a champion and I believe in him:"
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Introducing Baltimore junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones
Jeter Promotions has announced the signing of junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones to a promotional contract. Jones, age 23 years and from Baltimore, is 4-0 with two knockouts. All four of his wins have come on Jeter Promotions cards, and the news of the signing makes it official that he will be with Jeter Promotions going forward. "Tony Jeter is doing an amazing job, and he is keeping fighters active and doing great things. He is staying busy by doing shows in different areas. I could see myself fighting in the different spots that Tony promotes such as Atlanta, Pennsylvania and Maryland," said Jones.
Jones is trained by Marvin McDowell. He started boxing at the age of 13, and had 35 amateur fights. He considers himself a boxer-puncher. He turned professional on December 3, 2021 with a first-round stoppage over Joshua Zimmerman in Philadelphia. Jones also has a win over Kani Burnside. In his latest outing, Jones won a four-round unanimous decision over Michael Crain on February 18th in Hanover, Maryland..
"I am working on building my record and hopefully get on TV and fight for any belt that is available. Tony can bring me to be a champion and I believe in him:"
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Boxxer reaches distribution deal for three Asian countries |
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Boxxer announced the renewal of its exclusive media rights partnership with Mola in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The next event takes place on March 25th at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, headlined by WBO cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie, who defends his title against mandatory challenger from New Zealand, David Light. Mola is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia – the world’s fourth most populous country behind the US, China and India. Mola is owned and operated by Djarum Group’s subsidiary, Polytron, and is currently available in seven territories globally. The platform’s extensive programming portfolio includes live and on-demand rights to a host of international sports leagues and properties, whilst offering an expansive on-demand library of films, TV series and original programming.
Boxxer already has a distribution deal with Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, a four-year agreement signed in 2021. Boxxer is home to a roster of professional boxers, including champions, Olympic medallists and unbeaten contenders, isuch as Natasha Jonas, Savannah Marshall, Joshua Buatsi, Liam Smith, Richard Riakporhe and more. Now, live broadcasts of Boxxer events on Mola’s platform will bring fight fans in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore closer to the action than ever before.
Commenting on the renewal, Boxxer’s founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re very pleased to announce the extension of our partnership with Mola for 2023, allowing viewers in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to keep enjoying our best-in-class boxing content. Boxxer’s international footprint is growing at pace and Mola’s innovative OTT and SVOD platform means it’s an ideal fit for a partnership with our own disruptive sport/entertainment product.”
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Boxxer reaches distribution deal for three Asian countries
Boxxer announced the renewal of its exclusive media rights partnership with Mola in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The next event takes place on March 25th at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, headlined by WBO cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie, who defends his title against mandatory challenger from New Zealand, David Light. Mola is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia – the world’s fourth most populous country behind the US, China and India. Mola is owned and operated by Djarum Group’s subsidiary, Polytron, and is currently available in seven territories globally. The platform’s extensive programming portfolio includes live and on-demand rights to a host of international sports leagues and properties, whilst offering an expansive on-demand library of films, TV series and original programming.
Boxxer already has a distribution deal with Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, a four-year agreement signed in 2021. Boxxer is home to a roster of professional boxers, including champions, Olympic medallists and unbeaten contenders, isuch as Natasha Jonas, Savannah Marshall, Joshua Buatsi, Liam Smith, Richard Riakporhe and more. Now, live broadcasts of Boxxer events on Mola’s platform will bring fight fans in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore closer to the action than ever before.
Commenting on the renewal, Boxxer’s founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re very pleased to announce the extension of our partnership with Mola for 2023, allowing viewers in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to keep enjoying our best-in-class boxing content. Boxxer’s international footprint is growing at pace and Mola’s innovative OTT and SVOD platform means it’s an ideal fit for a partnership with our own disruptive sport/entertainment product.”
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Antonio Mireles added to ESPN+ broadcast |
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Heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles is ready for prime time. The 6'9", 270-pound southpaw will return in a six-round clash against Patrick Mailata (6-1, 3 KOs) on Saturday, March 25th at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. Mireles-Mailata will open the televised tripleheader headlined by the junior welterweight showdown between Jose Ramirez and Richard “RC” Commey and the minimumweight title unification bout between WBA champion Seniesa Estrada and WBC queen Tina Rupprecht. Ramirez-Commey, Estrada-Rupprecht and Mireles-Mailata will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $29 are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.
Mireles (6-0, 6 KOs) is a Mexican-American from Des Moines, Iowa. As an amateur, he won several national tournaments and signed with Top Rank in September 2021. Mireles made his pro debut the following month on the undercard of the Emanuel Navarrete-Joet Gonzalez main event in San Diego. Under the tutelage of Robert Garcia, he has maintained a 100 percent knockout ratio and is coming off a first-round knockout against Eric Perry last November.
Mailata is a Samoan-born boxer who had a decorated amateur career representing New Zealand. Mailata has won two straight since a majority decision loss to Kingsley Ibeh.
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Antonio Mireles added to ESPN+ broadcast
Heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles is ready for prime time. The 6'9", 270-pound southpaw will return in a six-round clash against Patrick Mailata (6-1, 3 KOs) on Saturday, March 25th at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. Mireles-Mailata will open the televised tripleheader headlined by the junior welterweight showdown between Jose Ramirez and Richard “RC” Commey and the minimumweight title unification bout between WBA champion Seniesa Estrada and WBC queen Tina Rupprecht. Ramirez-Commey, Estrada-Rupprecht and Mireles-Mailata will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $29 are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.
Mireles (6-0, 6 KOs) is a Mexican-American from Des Moines, Iowa. As an amateur, he won several national tournaments and signed with Top Rank in September 2021. Mireles made his pro debut the following month on the undercard of the Emanuel Navarrete-Joet Gonzalez main event in San Diego. Under the tutelage of Robert Garcia, he has maintained a 100 percent knockout ratio and is coming off a first-round knockout against Eric Perry last November.
Mailata is a Samoan-born boxer who had a decorated amateur career representing New Zealand. Mailata has won two straight since a majority decision loss to Kingsley Ibeh.
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