Hrgovic calls Itauma a "little b--ch" |
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After talking to Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic before their fight for the vacant IBF heavyweight championship this weekend, it’s clear both fighters are supremely confident of getting their hands on the belt. In one corner, you have Itauma, an undefeated 21 year-old Brit tipped as the future of boxing’s glamor division. Opposite him stands a tough Croatian took reigning WBO champ Daniel Dubois into the eighth round before being halted due to cuts above both eyes. That loss in 2024 was followed by points victories over Joe Joyce and Daniel Adeleye, before Dave Allen was stopped in his tracks in the third round back in May. Despite racking up that hat-trick of wins, Hrgovic finds himself in the role of underdog ahead of the showdown at London’s O2 Arena.
Being in that position is unfamiliar territory for the 34-year-old — and it is one he is not overly enamored with. While Hrgovic respects his foe’s power and ability, he has labelled Moses a ‘kid’ and claimed opportunities have been presented to him on a plate. “He's a little b—h,” was the answer when I asked what he thought of his opponent. “That's what I think.”
Of course, verbal blows are routinely traded in the build-up to fights. There will likely be more to come as Saturday approaches but there is an edge to what Hrgovic says when he switches from jovial to serious. Traditionally, pugilists shake hands after sharing a ring together — and I’m sure it will be no different when all is said and done at the weekend. There can be no doubt, however, that Hrgovic is desperate to derail the momentum Moses has built when he attempts to become Croatia’s first-ever world heavyweight titleholder.
Despite his experience, a resilient chin and exceptional durability, everything points to Hrgovic facing a monumental task to get his hands on the gold. With 14 victories punctuated by 12 stoppages, Moses is the juggernaut many believe cannot be halted. Two-time undisputed heavyweight kingpin Oleksandr Usyk speaks highly of him, while Billy Joe Saunders believes his fellow Brit is the best the division has produced since Muhammad Ali.
It remains to be seen how Moses reacts when his chin is finally put to the test. As we know, boxing has a way of producing shock results, particularly when the big boys start throwing bombs. But it would take a brave man to bet against him becoming the youngest boxer since Mike Tyson to win a world heavyweight title. “He's a good fighter. He's got a good chin, respectable power, stamina,” Moses told me. “And obviously his highlight is his heart. So I know what I'm up against — but he doesn’t know what he's up against.”
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Hrgovic calls Itauma a "little b--ch"
After talking to Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic before their fight for the vacant IBF heavyweight championship this weekend, it’s clear both fighters are supremely confident of getting their hands on the belt. In one corner, you have Itauma, an undefeated 21 year-old Brit tipped as the future of boxing’s glamor division. Opposite him stands a tough Croatian took reigning WBO champ Daniel Dubois into the eighth round before being halted due to cuts above both eyes. That loss in 2024 was followed by points victories over Joe Joyce and Daniel Adeleye, before Dave Allen was stopped in his tracks in the third round back in May. Despite racking up that hat-trick of wins, Hrgovic finds himself in the role of underdog ahead of the showdown at London’s O2 Arena.
Being in that position is unfamiliar territory for the 34-year-old — and it is one he is not overly enamored with. While Hrgovic respects his foe’s power and ability, he has labelled Moses a ‘kid’ and claimed opportunities have been presented to him on a plate. “He's a little b—h,” was the answer when I asked what he thought of his opponent. “That's what I think.”
Of course, verbal blows are routinely traded in the build-up to fights. There will likely be more to come as Saturday approaches but there is an edge to what Hrgovic says when he switches from jovial to serious. Traditionally, pugilists shake hands after sharing a ring together — and I’m sure it will be no different when all is said and done at the weekend. There can be no doubt, however, that Hrgovic is desperate to derail the momentum Moses has built when he attempts to become Croatia’s first-ever world heavyweight titleholder.
Despite his experience, a resilient chin and exceptional durability, everything points to Hrgovic facing a monumental task to get his hands on the gold. With 14 victories punctuated by 12 stoppages, Moses is the juggernaut many believe cannot be halted. Two-time undisputed heavyweight kingpin Oleksandr Usyk speaks highly of him, while Billy Joe Saunders believes his fellow Brit is the best the division has produced since Muhammad Ali.
It remains to be seen how Moses reacts when his chin is finally put to the test. As we know, boxing has a way of producing shock results, particularly when the big boys start throwing bombs. But it would take a brave man to bet against him becoming the youngest boxer since Mike Tyson to win a world heavyweight title. “He's a good fighter. He's got a good chin, respectable power, stamina,” Moses told me. “And obviously his highlight is his heart. So I know what I'm up against — but he doesn’t know what he's up against.”
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Russell Peltz remembers the great Tuesday Night Fights series |
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Hall of Fame promoter Russell Peltz remembers the great Tuesday Night Fights series: On this day in 1998, USA Network ended its popular Tuesday Night Fights series. To me, it was the first nail in boxing's coffin. I wrote about it in my book, Thirty Dollars and a Cut Eye: "USA Network terminated its Tuesday Night Fights series in the summer of 1998. It was a major blow to boxing and to promoters trying to establish or maintain a foothold in the sport. Other television outlets tried to fill the void, but none with the quality or consistency of the USA series. It had been one of the longest continuously running boxing programs on television since its debut in 1982. Unlike ESPN, which had dealt exclusively with Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc., from 1980 to 1996, USA was not a closed shop. It dealt with promoters around the country. "Promoters like me, Art Pelullo, Mike Acri, Bill Kozerski, Murad Muhammad, Ron Weathers, Rock Newman, Houston Boxing Association, Rick Parker, Dan Goossen, Square Ring, Main Events and Cedric Kushner had benefitted from USA. Top Rank got an occasional slot. It was smart to spread the wealth. While it had telecast fights from the casino capitals of Las Vegas and Atlantic City, USA also traveled to Galveston, Texas; Steubenville, Ohio; Cherokee, North Carolina; Erie, Pennsylvania; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Bismarck, North Dakota; Long Beach, California; Flint, Michigan; Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and Washington, DC. Fights were held in arenas, National Guard armories, hotel ballrooms and one on the deck of an aircraft carrier. The Blue Horizon [in Phiadelphia] was a regular stop. USA went twice to England, once to Mexico.
Appearances by George Foreman, Larry Holmes, Hector Camacho and Roberto Duran (in his 100th fight), who were trying to prolong their careers and catapult themselves into major events, were showcased. So were future champions like Riddick Bowe, Bernard Hopkins, Lennox Lewis, Arturo Gatti, Oscar De La Hoya and Roy Jones, Jr. World championship fights were rare but ratings were solid.
“USA pulled the plug because people who watched boxing on USA on Tuesday nights did not watch anything else on the network,” said Brad Jacobs, its program consultant, “and the people who watched everything else on the network were not necessarily a boxing demographic. The finale, on August 25, 1998, featured two staples of USA: Butterbean and the Blue Horizon. Arizona senator John McCain joined Pennsylvania governor Tom Ridge at ringside with (Pensylvania boxing commissioner] Greg Sirb. It was a celebration and a wake. Georgia-born Eric Esch was a five-time world Toughman heavyweight champion. He was nicknamed 'Butterbean' after he went on a diet of chicken and butterbeans to meet the 400-pound Toughman limit. He was 5-foot-11 and his trunks resembled the American flag. He went from being a cartoon character to a cult hero. Though I was old school, I couldn’t help but like him. He gave me a ceramic statue of himself for my memorabilia collection.
"Butterbean was known as the King of the 4 Rounders. He turned pro in 1994 and by the time he got to the Blue Horizon he was 39-1-1, 32 K0s, against so-so opposition. No one complained. Tim Pollard, of Louisville, Kentucky, never had a chance. Except for a quick loss to a 54-year-old Ron Lyle, Pollard’s 6-4-2 record had been against foes on the same level as Bean’s. It was over in 97 seconds. The crowd loved it. At the end of the night, fans looking for autographs surrounded Bean on the steps leading from the Blue Horizon to North Broad Street. It was the end of our own 'Era of Good Feelings.'”
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Russell Peltz remembers the great Tuesday Night Fights series
Hall of Fame promoter Russell Peltz remembers the great Tuesday Night Fights series: On this day in 1998, USA Network ended its popular Tuesday Night Fights series. To me, it was the first nail in boxing's coffin. I wrote about it in my book, Thirty Dollars and a Cut Eye: "USA Network terminated its Tuesday Night Fights series in the summer of 1998. It was a major blow to boxing and to promoters trying to establish or maintain a foothold in the sport. Other television outlets tried to fill the void, but none with the quality or consistency of the USA series. It had been one of the longest continuously running boxing programs on television since its debut in 1982. Unlike ESPN, which had dealt exclusively with Bob Arum’s Top Rank, Inc., from 1980 to 1996, USA was not a closed shop. It dealt with promoters around the country. "Promoters like me, Art Pelullo, Mike Acri, Bill Kozerski, Murad Muhammad, Ron Weathers, Rock Newman, Houston Boxing Association, Rick Parker, Dan Goossen, Square Ring, Main Events and Cedric Kushner had benefitted from USA. Top Rank got an occasional slot. It was smart to spread the wealth. While it had telecast fights from the casino capitals of Las Vegas and Atlantic City, USA also traveled to Galveston, Texas; Steubenville, Ohio; Cherokee, North Carolina; Erie, Pennsylvania; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Bismarck, North Dakota; Long Beach, California; Flint, Michigan; Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and Washington, DC. Fights were held in arenas, National Guard armories, hotel ballrooms and one on the deck of an aircraft carrier. The Blue Horizon [in Phiadelphia] was a regular stop. USA went twice to England, once to Mexico.
Appearances by George Foreman, Larry Holmes, Hector Camacho and Roberto Duran (in his 100th fight), who were trying to prolong their careers and catapult themselves into major events, were showcased. So were future champions like Riddick Bowe, Bernard Hopkins, Lennox Lewis, Arturo Gatti, Oscar De La Hoya and Roy Jones, Jr. World championship fights were rare but ratings were solid.
“USA pulled the plug because people who watched boxing on USA on Tuesday nights did not watch anything else on the network,” said Brad Jacobs, its program consultant, “and the people who watched everything else on the network were not necessarily a boxing demographic. The finale, on August 25, 1998, featured two staples of USA: Butterbean and the Blue Horizon. Arizona senator John McCain joined Pennsylvania governor Tom Ridge at ringside with (Pensylvania boxing commissioner] Greg Sirb. It was a celebration and a wake. Georgia-born Eric Esch was a five-time world Toughman heavyweight champion. He was nicknamed 'Butterbean' after he went on a diet of chicken and butterbeans to meet the 400-pound Toughman limit. He was 5-foot-11 and his trunks resembled the American flag. He went from being a cartoon character to a cult hero. Though I was old school, I couldn’t help but like him. He gave me a ceramic statue of himself for my memorabilia collection.
"Butterbean was known as the King of the 4 Rounders. He turned pro in 1994 and by the time he got to the Blue Horizon he was 39-1-1, 32 K0s, against so-so opposition. No one complained. Tim Pollard, of Louisville, Kentucky, never had a chance. Except for a quick loss to a 54-year-old Ron Lyle, Pollard’s 6-4-2 record had been against foes on the same level as Bean’s. It was over in 97 seconds. The crowd loved it. At the end of the night, fans looking for autographs surrounded Bean on the steps leading from the Blue Horizon to North Broad Street. It was the end of our own 'Era of Good Feelings.'”
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Lesson learned from Prichard Colon: "When in doubt, stop the bout" |
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Boxing author Mike Silver, author of "When In Doubt, Stop The Bout," had this to say about the tragic death of Prichard Colon: "On Wednesday August 12th. Puerto Rican boxer Prichard Colón, 33, died eleven years after suffering a severe brain injury in a professional boxing match. Add this sad chapter to the scores of other preventable boxing tragedies caused by incompetent referees, poorly trained ringside physicians, and clueless and uncaring boxing officials. The bout was halted after the ninth round. Colon collapsed in the dressing room and underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma and remained in a coma for 221 days. He was left unable to communicate verbally and remained in a vegetative state, cared for by his family until his death. "Last week, after reading newspaper accounts of the fight, I wanted to scream. Incredibly, during the nine rounds the fight lasted, the grossly incompetent referee allowed Colon’s opponent to land a total of 75 illegal rabbit punches to the base of Colon’s skull. Rabbit punches are illegal because they are capable of causing severe injury or death. Colon complained numerous times to the referee but only two warnings were issued to his opponent. Both warnings were ignored. By round seven Colon’s balance was unsteady. The constant blows to the back of his head were taking effect. In between rounds Colon told the ringside physician that he felt dizzy and the back of his head hurt. Yet the doctor inexplicably allowed the bout to continue. Of course, allowing a fighter to land 75 illegal rabbit punches without disqualifying him after the third or fourth time is an extreme example of spectacular incompetence by the referee. A competent referee must be cognizant of the danger of rabbit punches but even today many are still too slow to disqualify the offending boxer after a first warning. "As I state in my recently published book, “When in Doubt, Stop the Bout – A Revolutionary Approach to Boxing Safety and Reform” there should be zero tolerance for rabbit punches. The referee must be quick to disqualify the fighter after the first rabbit punch. A warning not to hit the back of the head is supposed to be standard instructions to both fighters by the referee just before the bout begins. Most referees don’t even mention it. Colon had barely 50 rounds of pro experience before his final bout. "At that stage of his career, he should not have been allowed to engage in a bout beyond six rounds until he had accumulated at least 60 or more rounds of professional experience. It is simply another useful safety precaution that should be standard and one of the dozens of innovative safety protocols I outline in my book. But irrespective of the number of rounds, it was the behavior of the referee that was the main cause of the preventable brain damage inflicted upon a promising young professional. Every safety net that was supposed to protect the boxer—the referee, ringside physician, boxing officials, and even his own cornermen—failed to protect Pritchard Colon. The family of Prichard Colón filed a $50 million lawsuit against ringside physician Dr. Richard Ashby and event promoters following his catastrophic 2015 brain injury. The suit alleges medical malpractice for allowing Colón to continue fighting after reporting dizziness and head pain from illegal blows. The suit is still unresolved. I can’t say it enough times: In light of professional boxing’s continued absence of uniform standards, proper education for referees and ringside physicians, and serious accountability when things go wrong, it should be incumbent by everyone in boxing to read and study When in Doubt, Stop the Bout. If you gain just one important idea from this book it can make a difference."
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Lesson learned from Prichard Colon: "When in doubt, stop the bout"
Boxing author Mike Silver, author of "When In Doubt, Stop The Bout," had this to say about the tragic death of Prichard Colon: "On Wednesday August 12th. Puerto Rican boxer Prichard Colón, 33, died eleven years after suffering a severe brain injury in a professional boxing match. Add this sad chapter to the scores of other preventable boxing tragedies caused by incompetent referees, poorly trained ringside physicians, and clueless and uncaring boxing officials. The bout was halted after the ninth round. Colon collapsed in the dressing room and underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma and remained in a coma for 221 days. He was left unable to communicate verbally and remained in a vegetative state, cared for by his family until his death. "Last week, after reading newspaper accounts of the fight, I wanted to scream. Incredibly, during the nine rounds the fight lasted, the grossly incompetent referee allowed Colon’s opponent to land a total of 75 illegal rabbit punches to the base of Colon’s skull. Rabbit punches are illegal because they are capable of causing severe injury or death. Colon complained numerous times to the referee but only two warnings were issued to his opponent. Both warnings were ignored. By round seven Colon’s balance was unsteady. The constant blows to the back of his head were taking effect. In between rounds Colon told the ringside physician that he felt dizzy and the back of his head hurt. Yet the doctor inexplicably allowed the bout to continue. Of course, allowing a fighter to land 75 illegal rabbit punches without disqualifying him after the third or fourth time is an extreme example of spectacular incompetence by the referee. A competent referee must be cognizant of the danger of rabbit punches but even today many are still too slow to disqualify the offending boxer after a first warning. "As I state in my recently published book, “When in Doubt, Stop the Bout – A Revolutionary Approach to Boxing Safety and Reform” there should be zero tolerance for rabbit punches. The referee must be quick to disqualify the fighter after the first rabbit punch. A warning not to hit the back of the head is supposed to be standard instructions to both fighters by the referee just before the bout begins. Most referees don’t even mention it. Colon had barely 50 rounds of pro experience before his final bout. "At that stage of his career, he should not have been allowed to engage in a bout beyond six rounds until he had accumulated at least 60 or more rounds of professional experience. It is simply another useful safety precaution that should be standard and one of the dozens of innovative safety protocols I outline in my book. But irrespective of the number of rounds, it was the behavior of the referee that was the main cause of the preventable brain damage inflicted upon a promising young professional. Every safety net that was supposed to protect the boxer—the referee, ringside physician, boxing officials, and even his own cornermen—failed to protect Pritchard Colon. The family of Prichard Colón filed a $50 million lawsuit against ringside physician Dr. Richard Ashby and event promoters following his catastrophic 2015 brain injury. The suit alleges medical malpractice for allowing Colón to continue fighting after reporting dizziness and head pain from illegal blows. The suit is still unresolved. I can’t say it enough times: In light of professional boxing’s continued absence of uniform standards, proper education for referees and ringside physicians, and serious accountability when things go wrong, it should be incumbent by everyone in boxing to read and study When in Doubt, Stop the Bout. If you gain just one important idea from this book it can make a difference."
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Montreal card on for Sept. 3rd |
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On Thursday, September 3rd, Eye of the Tiger will present pro boxing at Casino de Montréal. Cuban cruiserweight Lenar Perez (16-0) will headline against the respected South African Thabiso Mchunu (25-8). In the co-feature, Moreno Fendero will face Stephane Fondjo in an all-Montreal super middleweight showdown. Colombia's Jhon Orobio, Olympic medalist Wyatt Sanford, Keven Beausejour, Victor Tremblay and three-time Canadian amateur champion Nickenson Denis will also see ring action. Tickets are already sold out, but the card will be available for viewing on Punching Grace in Quebec and on DAZN worldwide.
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Montreal card on for Sept. 3rd
On Thursday, September 3rd, Eye of the Tiger will present pro boxing at Casino de Montréal. Cuban cruiserweight Lenar Perez (16-0) will headline against the respected South African Thabiso Mchunu (25-8). In the co-feature, Moreno Fendero will face Stephane Fondjo in an all-Montreal super middleweight showdown. Colombia's Jhon Orobio, Olympic medalist Wyatt Sanford, Keven Beausejour, Victor Tremblay and three-time Canadian amateur champion Nickenson Denis will also see ring action. Tickets are already sold out, but the card will be available for viewing on Punching Grace in Quebec and on DAZN worldwide.
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BKFC lands ex-champ Terrill as last-minute title challenger |
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A late change has produced one of the biggest heavyweight matchups in recent bare knuckle boxing history: BKB heavyweight champion Gustavo “The Cuban Assassin” Trujillo (8-0, 8 KOs) will now defend his title against forrmer multi-promotion champion Mick “The Butcher of Shields” Terrill (11-2, 11 KOs) in the new main this Saturday, August 29th at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida.The event will be broadcast live on Vice TV in the U.S. and Canada, as well as Telemundo for Spanish-language audiences throughout the United States. The fight was put together in just 16 hours after it was announced that Trujillo’s originally scheduled opponent, Mark O’Neill, was forced to withdraw due to visa issues.
Rather than simply finding a replacement opponent, Trujillo and his team embraced the opportunity to make the main event even bigger. In Terrill, Trujillo will face one of the most accomplished and dangerous heavyweights in bare knuckle boxing. Terrill brings an 11-2 record with all 11 victories coming by knockout and has captured world championships across multiple promotions: Knuckle, BKB and BKFC. Trujillo, meanwhile, has been perfect throughout his bare-knuckle career, compiling an 8-0 record with eight knockouts while establishing himself as one of the sport’s most devastating finishers.
Despite having prepared for a different opponent, Trujillo said there was never any hesitation when the opportunity to face Terrill was presented. The undefeated champion views the sudden change as another chance to prove why he belongs at the top of the heavyweight division.
Speaking about accepting a dangerous new opponent with only days remaining before fight night, Trujillo said. “The opponent changed, but my mentality didn’t change at all. I’ve been training for a fight, and I’m ready for a fight. Mick Terrill is a world champion, he’s experienced, he’s dangerous and he can punch, but that makes this even more exciting for me. I want to fight the best guys out there. There was no hesitation when his name came up. I respect what he has accomplished, but I’m the BKB Heavyweight Champion, and on Saturday night I’m going to show everyone why. It doesn’t matter if I have eight weeks to prepare for someone or a few days. When that bell rings, I’m coming to do my job.”
Addressing what a victory over Terrill would mean and the significance of having two elite heavyweight champions collide in Miami, Trujillo added. “This is the biggest heavyweight fight in BKB history. You have two world champions, two heavyweights with knockout power and two guys who believe they are the best. These are the fights that move the sport forward. I don’t want easy fights. I want the fights people are going to remember and talk about for years. Mick has earned his reputation, and I’ve earned mine. Now we get to settle it in the ring. This is the kind of challenge that motivates me, and I plan on making the most of it.”
With Trujillo and Terrill combining for a perfect knockout percentage in their victories, the champion believes fans should expect action from the moment the opening bell sounds. When asked what the Miami crowd and fans watching around the world can expect Saturday night, Trujillo promised another memorable performance. “Expect fireworks. I’m not coming in there to play it safe or just hold onto my belt. That’s never been my style. I’m coming to put on a show for Miami and everyone watching around the world. I’m going to be aggressive, I’m going to be smart, and I’m going to bring the kind of pressure and power people expect when they see ‘The Cuban Assassin’ step into the ring. Mick is coming to take my championship, and I know he’s going to bring everything he has. That’s exactly what I want. The fans deserve a great fight, and I believe they’re going to get one Saturday night.”
Behind the scenes, the clock began ticking as soon as O’Neill’s visa issues forced him out of the contest. Trujillo’s manager, Abe Swidan of Visionary Sports Group, said the priority was not merely preserving Trujillo’s place on the card, it was finding an opponent worthy of a major BKB heavyweight championship main event. Within 16 hours, the deal for Trujillo-Terrill was completed. Discussing the rapid negotiations and the decision to pursue such a dangerous replacement opponent on extremely short notice, Swidan said, “When we found out Mark O’Neill couldn’t make the fight because of the visa situation, we had a decision to make. We could look for the easiest available replacement and protect what we had, or we could try to turn a difficult situation into something special. Gustavo has never been interested in taking the easy road. When Mick Terrill became a possibility, we immediately knew this was the fight to make. Mick is a proven world champion and one of the most dangerous heavyweights in bare knuckle boxing. Putting him in there with Gustavo gives the fans a legitimate world championship-level fight between two elite knockout artists.”
Swidan believes the circumstances surrounding the matchup only add to what could become a defining night for both Trujillo and BKB. Explaining why Trujillo’s team was willing to accept such a significant challenge with virtually no time to prepare specifically for Terrill, Swidan continued, “We did this because the fans deserve the best fight possible. You don’t get many opportunities to put two heavyweight world champions with this kind of power together, and when the opportunity presented itself, we went after it. To get a fight of this magnitude finalized in 16 hours took everybody working together, but Gustavo never hesitated. That tells you everything you need to know about his confidence and the type of champion he wants to be. We believe he is the best heavyweight in bare knuckle boxing, and the way you prove that is by fighting the best. Trujillo versus Terrill has all the ingredients to be one of the best heavyweight fights BKB has ever seen.”
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BKFC lands ex-champ Terrill as last-minute title challenger
A late change has produced one of the biggest heavyweight matchups in recent bare knuckle boxing history: BKB heavyweight champion Gustavo “The Cuban Assassin” Trujillo (8-0, 8 KOs) will now defend his title against forrmer multi-promotion champion Mick “The Butcher of Shields” Terrill (11-2, 11 KOs) in the new main this Saturday, August 29th at the James L. Knight Center in Miami, Florida.The event will be broadcast live on Vice TV in the U.S. and Canada, as well as Telemundo for Spanish-language audiences throughout the United States. The fight was put together in just 16 hours after it was announced that Trujillo’s originally scheduled opponent, Mark O’Neill, was forced to withdraw due to visa issues.
Rather than simply finding a replacement opponent, Trujillo and his team embraced the opportunity to make the main event even bigger. In Terrill, Trujillo will face one of the most accomplished and dangerous heavyweights in bare knuckle boxing. Terrill brings an 11-2 record with all 11 victories coming by knockout and has captured world championships across multiple promotions: Knuckle, BKB and BKFC. Trujillo, meanwhile, has been perfect throughout his bare-knuckle career, compiling an 8-0 record with eight knockouts while establishing himself as one of the sport’s most devastating finishers.
Despite having prepared for a different opponent, Trujillo said there was never any hesitation when the opportunity to face Terrill was presented. The undefeated champion views the sudden change as another chance to prove why he belongs at the top of the heavyweight division.
Speaking about accepting a dangerous new opponent with only days remaining before fight night, Trujillo said. “The opponent changed, but my mentality didn’t change at all. I’ve been training for a fight, and I’m ready for a fight. Mick Terrill is a world champion, he’s experienced, he’s dangerous and he can punch, but that makes this even more exciting for me. I want to fight the best guys out there. There was no hesitation when his name came up. I respect what he has accomplished, but I’m the BKB Heavyweight Champion, and on Saturday night I’m going to show everyone why. It doesn’t matter if I have eight weeks to prepare for someone or a few days. When that bell rings, I’m coming to do my job.”
Addressing what a victory over Terrill would mean and the significance of having two elite heavyweight champions collide in Miami, Trujillo added. “This is the biggest heavyweight fight in BKB history. You have two world champions, two heavyweights with knockout power and two guys who believe they are the best. These are the fights that move the sport forward. I don’t want easy fights. I want the fights people are going to remember and talk about for years. Mick has earned his reputation, and I’ve earned mine. Now we get to settle it in the ring. This is the kind of challenge that motivates me, and I plan on making the most of it.”
With Trujillo and Terrill combining for a perfect knockout percentage in their victories, the champion believes fans should expect action from the moment the opening bell sounds. When asked what the Miami crowd and fans watching around the world can expect Saturday night, Trujillo promised another memorable performance. “Expect fireworks. I’m not coming in there to play it safe or just hold onto my belt. That’s never been my style. I’m coming to put on a show for Miami and everyone watching around the world. I’m going to be aggressive, I’m going to be smart, and I’m going to bring the kind of pressure and power people expect when they see ‘The Cuban Assassin’ step into the ring. Mick is coming to take my championship, and I know he’s going to bring everything he has. That’s exactly what I want. The fans deserve a great fight, and I believe they’re going to get one Saturday night.”
Behind the scenes, the clock began ticking as soon as O’Neill’s visa issues forced him out of the contest. Trujillo’s manager, Abe Swidan of Visionary Sports Group, said the priority was not merely preserving Trujillo’s place on the card, it was finding an opponent worthy of a major BKB heavyweight championship main event. Within 16 hours, the deal for Trujillo-Terrill was completed. Discussing the rapid negotiations and the decision to pursue such a dangerous replacement opponent on extremely short notice, Swidan said, “When we found out Mark O’Neill couldn’t make the fight because of the visa situation, we had a decision to make. We could look for the easiest available replacement and protect what we had, or we could try to turn a difficult situation into something special. Gustavo has never been interested in taking the easy road. When Mick Terrill became a possibility, we immediately knew this was the fight to make. Mick is a proven world champion and one of the most dangerous heavyweights in bare knuckle boxing. Putting him in there with Gustavo gives the fans a legitimate world championship-level fight between two elite knockout artists.”
Swidan believes the circumstances surrounding the matchup only add to what could become a defining night for both Trujillo and BKB. Explaining why Trujillo’s team was willing to accept such a significant challenge with virtually no time to prepare specifically for Terrill, Swidan continued, “We did this because the fans deserve the best fight possible. You don’t get many opportunities to put two heavyweight world champions with this kind of power together, and when the opportunity presented itself, we went after it. To get a fight of this magnitude finalized in 16 hours took everybody working together, but Gustavo never hesitated. That tells you everything you need to know about his confidence and the type of champion he wants to be. We believe he is the best heavyweight in bare knuckle boxing, and the way you prove that is by fighting the best. Trujillo versus Terrill has all the ingredients to be one of the best heavyweight fights BKB has ever seen.”
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Championship doubleheader set for Saturday |
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The city of Birmingham, England is set to host a world championship doubleheader that will bring together four of the top female fighters in the world for a high-stakes evening at the BP Pulse Live Arena. The main event will feature a junior middleweight unification showdown between America’s Mikaela Mayer (pictured) and Britain’s Chantelle Cameron. The chief support sees WBC lightweight world champion Caroline Dubois of Great Britain will defend her title against undefeated American contender Amelia Moore.
Mayer is a 2016 U.S. Olympian and former unified 130-pound champion. Mayer has cemented her legacy by winning world titles across multiple divisions. After moving up in weight and dominating the welterweight ranks, the American enters this bout boasting elite technical skills, exceptional reach, and a relentless work rate.
Cameron is a former undisputed junior welterweight world champion and one of Great Britain’s most formidable fighters. Following memorable clashes on boxing’s biggest stages, including ring wars against Katie Taylor, the Northampton native aims to re-establish her dominance on the global scene by capturing the 154-pound crown in front of her home fans. This matchup pairs two of the finest pound-for-pound fighters on the planet, guaranteeing an intriguing clash of styles between two proven champions accustomed to competing at the absolute highest level.
Dubois is a former amateur standout who captured Youth Olympic gold. Known as “Sweet Caroline,” Dubois has experienced a meteoric rise in the professional ranks, displaying punch power and hand speed that have established her in the 135-pound division.
Amelia Moore:
A former U.S. National Team member and decorated amateur competitor, Moore makes her defining leap onto the international stage carrying an unblemished professional record. The American has spent years preparing for this moment, bringing a tricky southpaw stance, non-stop pressure, and high-volume punching to the ring.The athletic rivalry between the UK and USA adds extra flair to this matchup of unbeaten fighters, with the outcome set to directly shape the future of the lightweight division.
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Championship doubleheader set for Saturday
The city of Birmingham, England is set to host a world championship doubleheader that will bring together four of the top female fighters in the world for a high-stakes evening at the BP Pulse Live Arena. The main event will feature a junior middleweight unification showdown between America’s Mikaela Mayer (pictured) and Britain’s Chantelle Cameron. The chief support sees WBC lightweight world champion Caroline Dubois of Great Britain will defend her title against undefeated American contender Amelia Moore.
Mayer is a 2016 U.S. Olympian and former unified 130-pound champion. Mayer has cemented her legacy by winning world titles across multiple divisions. After moving up in weight and dominating the welterweight ranks, the American enters this bout boasting elite technical skills, exceptional reach, and a relentless work rate.
Cameron is a former undisputed junior welterweight world champion and one of Great Britain’s most formidable fighters. Following memorable clashes on boxing’s biggest stages, including ring wars against Katie Taylor, the Northampton native aims to re-establish her dominance on the global scene by capturing the 154-pound crown in front of her home fans. This matchup pairs two of the finest pound-for-pound fighters on the planet, guaranteeing an intriguing clash of styles between two proven champions accustomed to competing at the absolute highest level.
Dubois is a former amateur standout who captured Youth Olympic gold. Known as “Sweet Caroline,” Dubois has experienced a meteoric rise in the professional ranks, displaying punch power and hand speed that have established her in the 135-pound division.
Amelia Moore:
A former U.S. National Team member and decorated amateur competitor, Moore makes her defining leap onto the international stage carrying an unblemished professional record. The American has spent years preparing for this moment, bringing a tricky southpaw stance, non-stop pressure, and high-volume punching to the ring.The athletic rivalry between the UK and USA adds extra flair to this matchup of unbeaten fighters, with the outcome set to directly shape the future of the lightweight division.
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Spotlight on title challenger Amelia Moore |
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Take a look at Amelia Moore’s professional record and you’ll see just four fights. Dig a little deeper and you’ll understand why the undefeated American believes she is ready to become a world champion. CES Boxing's Moore (4-0, 1 KO), takes the biggest step of her career this Saturday, August 29th, when she challenges undefeated British star Caroline Dubois (13-0-1, 5 KOs) for the WBC and WBO lightweight championships iover ten rounds at MVPW-06 in Birmingham, England. The Most Valuable Promotions card is headlined by the junior middleweight unification showdown between Mikaela Mayer and Chantelle Cameron. It will be broadcast live in the United States on ESPN+ and in the United Kingdom on Sky Sports.
For Moore, Saturday night represents the culmination of a journey that began long before her professional debut. "When people say, 'She’s only 4-0,' if they’re only looking at BoxRec, it’s lazy journalism," said Moore. "Look at my amateur pedigree. My whole journey through Team USA and three Olympic cycles was always about becoming an Olympian."
Over the course of those three cycles, Moore fought over 120 times, winning two national championships (National Golden Gloves in 2017 and the USA Boxing National Championships in 2021) and earning gold medals at the Elite National Championships and National PAL in 2017.
After becoming a US Olympic alternate at the 2021 Olympics, Moore finally decided to turn pro in 2024 under the CES Boxing promotional banner. Just four professional fights later, the unbeaten American finds herself fighting on foreign soil for the unified lightweight championship.
That theme was front and center when Moore and Dubois came face-to-face in England to discuss their championship showdown. While Dubois acknowledged Moore as a talented opponent, the champion repeatedly referred to the American as a potential "banana skin" on her quest toward becoming undisputed champion.
Moore, meanwhile, had a message for anyone judging her solely by the number of fights listed next to her name. "A lot of people are like, ‘Well, is it too fast?’ I don’t believe so. I spent so much time in the amateurs. When we stepped into this, the whole point was: go."
Indeed, after years competing at the highest levels of the amateur system, CES Boxing felt confident that Amelia had the pedigree to quickly move towards a world title. "We’ve watched Amelia develop from one of the best amateurs in America into a confident, mature professional who belongs on this stage," explained CES Boxing founder Jimmy Burchfield, Sr. "We didn’t rush her here. We prepared her for this moment. She has spent years competing against elite fighters, traveling the world and developing the experience you need to handle a night like this."
After just three pro bouts, Moore defeated Canadian veteran Bonnie Hunter. One bout later, the Colorado Springs resident steps into a world championship fight against one of the sport’s most highly regarded young champions. "Caroline Dubois is an outstanding champion and deserves tremendous respect, but Amelia isn’t going to Birmingham just to challenge for two world titles," said Burchfield. "She’s going there to bring them home."
It is a rapid ascent by traditional pro boxing standards, but Moore, age 36, believes those standards fail to account for the realities of today’s women’s boxing, or the experience she accumulated before ever making her professional debut. "This moves so much faster than the men’s side, where we see that it can take 20 fights just to get somebody into a contender spot," Moore said. "Fortunately or unfortunately, on the women’s side, we move way faster."
Dubois, however, made it clear she expects Moore’s meteoric rise to end in Birmingham. The champion said she considers Moore a quality fighter and even suggested the American would be 50/50 in potential fights against lightweight champions Stephanie Han (WBA) and Elif Nur Turhan (IBF). However, when Dubois was asked whether Moore’s extensive amateur background presented a challenge that might be difficult to overcome, her response was emphatic. "No," Dubois said. "I don’t see any challenge, but I hope Amelia comes to fight. She talks a lot about this, that and the other. I’m really excited to see what she’s going to bring, but whatever she brings, I just believe I’m better."
Those words only fuel Moore's determination. Amelia understands that she enters Saturday’s fight as the underdog, fighting an English champion on British soil in only her fifth professional bout. She is also aware that many fans watching her for the first time will see her pro record and wonder whether the opportunity has arrived too soon.
Moore has no interest in trying to convince them otherwise. "Whether someone is overlooking me or not, that’s not my job," she said. "It’s not my job to sway people’s opinions. It’s my job to put on a performance that’s undeniable."
On Saturday night in Birmingham, Amelia Moore finally gets that opportunity.
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Spotlight on title challenger Amelia Moore
Take a look at Amelia Moore’s professional record and you’ll see just four fights. Dig a little deeper and you’ll understand why the undefeated American believes she is ready to become a world champion. CES Boxing's Moore (4-0, 1 KO), takes the biggest step of her career this Saturday, August 29th, when she challenges undefeated British star Caroline Dubois (13-0-1, 5 KOs) for the WBC and WBO lightweight championships iover ten rounds at MVPW-06 in Birmingham, England. The Most Valuable Promotions card is headlined by the junior middleweight unification showdown between Mikaela Mayer and Chantelle Cameron. It will be broadcast live in the United States on ESPN+ and in the United Kingdom on Sky Sports.
For Moore, Saturday night represents the culmination of a journey that began long before her professional debut. "When people say, 'She’s only 4-0,' if they’re only looking at BoxRec, it’s lazy journalism," said Moore. "Look at my amateur pedigree. My whole journey through Team USA and three Olympic cycles was always about becoming an Olympian."
Over the course of those three cycles, Moore fought over 120 times, winning two national championships (National Golden Gloves in 2017 and the USA Boxing National Championships in 2021) and earning gold medals at the Elite National Championships and National PAL in 2017.
After becoming a US Olympic alternate at the 2021 Olympics, Moore finally decided to turn pro in 2024 under the CES Boxing promotional banner. Just four professional fights later, the unbeaten American finds herself fighting on foreign soil for the unified lightweight championship.
That theme was front and center when Moore and Dubois came face-to-face in England to discuss their championship showdown. While Dubois acknowledged Moore as a talented opponent, the champion repeatedly referred to the American as a potential "banana skin" on her quest toward becoming undisputed champion.
Moore, meanwhile, had a message for anyone judging her solely by the number of fights listed next to her name. "A lot of people are like, ‘Well, is it too fast?’ I don’t believe so. I spent so much time in the amateurs. When we stepped into this, the whole point was: go."
Indeed, after years competing at the highest levels of the amateur system, CES Boxing felt confident that Amelia had the pedigree to quickly move towards a world title. "We’ve watched Amelia develop from one of the best amateurs in America into a confident, mature professional who belongs on this stage," explained CES Boxing founder Jimmy Burchfield, Sr. "We didn’t rush her here. We prepared her for this moment. She has spent years competing against elite fighters, traveling the world and developing the experience you need to handle a night like this."
After just three pro bouts, Moore defeated Canadian veteran Bonnie Hunter. One bout later, the Colorado Springs resident steps into a world championship fight against one of the sport’s most highly regarded young champions. "Caroline Dubois is an outstanding champion and deserves tremendous respect, but Amelia isn’t going to Birmingham just to challenge for two world titles," said Burchfield. "She’s going there to bring them home."
It is a rapid ascent by traditional pro boxing standards, but Moore, age 36, believes those standards fail to account for the realities of today’s women’s boxing, or the experience she accumulated before ever making her professional debut. "This moves so much faster than the men’s side, where we see that it can take 20 fights just to get somebody into a contender spot," Moore said. "Fortunately or unfortunately, on the women’s side, we move way faster."
Dubois, however, made it clear she expects Moore’s meteoric rise to end in Birmingham. The champion said she considers Moore a quality fighter and even suggested the American would be 50/50 in potential fights against lightweight champions Stephanie Han (WBA) and Elif Nur Turhan (IBF). However, when Dubois was asked whether Moore’s extensive amateur background presented a challenge that might be difficult to overcome, her response was emphatic. "No," Dubois said. "I don’t see any challenge, but I hope Amelia comes to fight. She talks a lot about this, that and the other. I’m really excited to see what she’s going to bring, but whatever she brings, I just believe I’m better."
Those words only fuel Moore's determination. Amelia understands that she enters Saturday’s fight as the underdog, fighting an English champion on British soil in only her fifth professional bout. She is also aware that many fans watching her for the first time will see her pro record and wonder whether the opportunity has arrived too soon.
Moore has no interest in trying to convince them otherwise. "Whether someone is overlooking me or not, that’s not my job," she said. "It’s not my job to sway people’s opinions. It’s my job to put on a performance that’s undeniable."
On Saturday night in Birmingham, Amelia Moore finally gets that opportunity.
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Colombia's Carillo has big opportunity this weekend |
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Colombian light heavyweight Juan Carlos Carrillo (15-0, 11 KOs), who is promoted by Sampson Boxing, isn't paying much attention to the odds ahead of the biggest fight of his professional career. What matters to him is what happens when the bell rings. Carrillo, a native of Barranquilla, will face fellow unbeaten Najee Lopez (16-0, 13 KOs) of Atlanta in a ten-round showdown on August 29th at the USC Galen Center in Los Angeles. The event will be broadcast live on ProBox TV. The battle will support a twelve-round championship clash featuring WBC interim super middleweight champion Lester Martinez (20-0-1, 16 KOs) defending his title against unbeaten Luka Plantic (13-0, 10 KOs).
Carrillo has spent his training camp in Las Vegas working under the guidance of respected trainer Bob Santos. Away from the comforts of home and the distractions that can come with them, Carrillo says camp has been about discipline, repetition and preparing himself for the kind of grueling fight he expects against Lopez. "This has been one of the hardest and best camps of my career," Carrillo said. "Working with Bob in Las Vegas has pushed me to another level. There are days when you're tired and your body is telling you that you've had enough, but those are the days that matter. Bob demands discipline, and I've given him everything he's asked of me. I know the kind of fight I'm walking into, so there was no room to cut corners."
Carrillo believes the weeks spent in Las Vegas have sharpened him both physically and mentally. "I feel strong, I feel sharp, and most importantly, my mind is right," Carrillo continued. "I've sacrificed a lot for this opportunity. When I get to Los Angeles, I want people to see the work we put in when nobody was watching."
Despite entering the bout unbeaten with 11 knockouts in 15 victories, Carrillo understands that some observers view Lopez as the favorite. "I know I'm the underdog, and that's fine with me," Carrillo said. "Actually, I like it. It puts a chip on my shoulder. People can make their predictions and talk about who they think is supposed to win. I don't need to argue with anybody. My job is to get in that ring and show them."
That mindset has followed Carrillo throughout camp. He respects what Lopez has accomplished, but he doesn't believe an undefeated record makes any fighter untouchable. "Najee is a great fighter with a lot of talent," Carrillo added. "He's dangerous and he's earned his position. But I'm undefeated too. I didn't come from Barranquilla, go through this camp in Las Vegas and make all these sacrifices just to be happy about being in the co-main event. I'm coming to win. I'm coming for that belt. Being the underdog just gives me a little more fire."
Carrillo expects Lopez to have his moments, but he has prepared himself for a physical fight and says he intends to test his opponent in ways he hasn't experienced during his first 16 professional bouts. "I'm going to bring pain," Carrillo said. "I don't say that because I disrespect Najee. That's just the mentality I have to bring into this fight. I want to make him uncomfortable. I want him to feel my punches, feel my pressure and understand from the first round that he's in a real fight."
Carrillo isn't necessarily predicting a knockout. He is, however, promising that Lopez will have to earn everything he gets. "If the knockout comes, I'm going to take it, but I'm prepared for 10 hard rounds," Carrillo continued. "I want to break him down mentally and physically. I want to keep coming, keep working and make every round difficult for him. He has never lost, so he believes he's going to win. I believe the same thing about myself. That's what makes this fight so exciting."
A victory over an undefeated opponent with Lopez's record, on a major stage in Los Angeles, could push Carrillo into a new position in the light heavyweight division and bring him closer to the fights he has imagined since beginning his professional journey. "This is the fight that can change everything for me," Carrillo said. "A win over an undefeated fighter like Najee Lopez can put my name in a different conversation. I want to move up the rankings. I want to thank my promoter Sampson Lewkowicz for getting me this fight, and Pro Box for the oppertunity. I want the big fights. Eventually, I want to fight for a world championship. That's the dream."
Those ambitions haven't distracted Carrillo from the immediate task. "I can't think about a world title if I don't take care of August 29th," Carrillo added. "Najee has my full attention. I'm hungry, but I'm also humble enough to know that nothing in boxing is given to you. I have to go earn it. If I want people to consider me one of the best light heavyweights in the world, then this is the type of fight I have to win."
After overseeing Carrillo's camp in Las Vegas, Bob Santos believes fans could be in for something special. "I really believe this has the potential to be a Fight of the Year type of fight," Santos said. "You've got two undefeated light heavyweights who can punch, both guys believe they're going to win, and neither one wants to give up that zero. Those are the fights where you find out a lot about a fighter. Najee Lopez is a very good fighter, and we have a tremendous amount of respect for what he brings, but Juan Carlos has had an outstanding camp. He's been disciplined from day one. He showed up, did the work, listened and never looked for the easy way out. As a trainer, that's all you can ask for. He's physically and mentally prepared, and I expect people are going to see the best Juan Carlos Carrillo they've seen yet."
For Carrillo, there isn't much left to say. He will walk into the USC Galen Center as an underdog. "I'm ready," Carrillo concluded. "I respect Najee and I know he's coming to fight, but I'm coming with everything I have. This is my opportunity, and I'm not letting it pass me by. On August 29th, people are going to know my name."
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Colombia's Carillo has big opportunity this weekend
Colombian light heavyweight Juan Carlos Carrillo (15-0, 11 KOs), who is promoted by Sampson Boxing, isn't paying much attention to the odds ahead of the biggest fight of his professional career. What matters to him is what happens when the bell rings. Carrillo, a native of Barranquilla, will face fellow unbeaten Najee Lopez (16-0, 13 KOs) of Atlanta in a ten-round showdown on August 29th at the USC Galen Center in Los Angeles. The event will be broadcast live on ProBox TV. The battle will support a twelve-round championship clash featuring WBC interim super middleweight champion Lester Martinez (20-0-1, 16 KOs) defending his title against unbeaten Luka Plantic (13-0, 10 KOs).
Carrillo has spent his training camp in Las Vegas working under the guidance of respected trainer Bob Santos. Away from the comforts of home and the distractions that can come with them, Carrillo says camp has been about discipline, repetition and preparing himself for the kind of grueling fight he expects against Lopez. "This has been one of the hardest and best camps of my career," Carrillo said. "Working with Bob in Las Vegas has pushed me to another level. There are days when you're tired and your body is telling you that you've had enough, but those are the days that matter. Bob demands discipline, and I've given him everything he's asked of me. I know the kind of fight I'm walking into, so there was no room to cut corners."
Carrillo believes the weeks spent in Las Vegas have sharpened him both physically and mentally. "I feel strong, I feel sharp, and most importantly, my mind is right," Carrillo continued. "I've sacrificed a lot for this opportunity. When I get to Los Angeles, I want people to see the work we put in when nobody was watching."
Despite entering the bout unbeaten with 11 knockouts in 15 victories, Carrillo understands that some observers view Lopez as the favorite. "I know I'm the underdog, and that's fine with me," Carrillo said. "Actually, I like it. It puts a chip on my shoulder. People can make their predictions and talk about who they think is supposed to win. I don't need to argue with anybody. My job is to get in that ring and show them."
That mindset has followed Carrillo throughout camp. He respects what Lopez has accomplished, but he doesn't believe an undefeated record makes any fighter untouchable. "Najee is a great fighter with a lot of talent," Carrillo added. "He's dangerous and he's earned his position. But I'm undefeated too. I didn't come from Barranquilla, go through this camp in Las Vegas and make all these sacrifices just to be happy about being in the co-main event. I'm coming to win. I'm coming for that belt. Being the underdog just gives me a little more fire."
Carrillo expects Lopez to have his moments, but he has prepared himself for a physical fight and says he intends to test his opponent in ways he hasn't experienced during his first 16 professional bouts. "I'm going to bring pain," Carrillo said. "I don't say that because I disrespect Najee. That's just the mentality I have to bring into this fight. I want to make him uncomfortable. I want him to feel my punches, feel my pressure and understand from the first round that he's in a real fight."
Carrillo isn't necessarily predicting a knockout. He is, however, promising that Lopez will have to earn everything he gets. "If the knockout comes, I'm going to take it, but I'm prepared for 10 hard rounds," Carrillo continued. "I want to break him down mentally and physically. I want to keep coming, keep working and make every round difficult for him. He has never lost, so he believes he's going to win. I believe the same thing about myself. That's what makes this fight so exciting."
A victory over an undefeated opponent with Lopez's record, on a major stage in Los Angeles, could push Carrillo into a new position in the light heavyweight division and bring him closer to the fights he has imagined since beginning his professional journey. "This is the fight that can change everything for me," Carrillo said. "A win over an undefeated fighter like Najee Lopez can put my name in a different conversation. I want to move up the rankings. I want to thank my promoter Sampson Lewkowicz for getting me this fight, and Pro Box for the oppertunity. I want the big fights. Eventually, I want to fight for a world championship. That's the dream."
Those ambitions haven't distracted Carrillo from the immediate task. "I can't think about a world title if I don't take care of August 29th," Carrillo added. "Najee has my full attention. I'm hungry, but I'm also humble enough to know that nothing in boxing is given to you. I have to go earn it. If I want people to consider me one of the best light heavyweights in the world, then this is the type of fight I have to win."
After overseeing Carrillo's camp in Las Vegas, Bob Santos believes fans could be in for something special. "I really believe this has the potential to be a Fight of the Year type of fight," Santos said. "You've got two undefeated light heavyweights who can punch, both guys believe they're going to win, and neither one wants to give up that zero. Those are the fights where you find out a lot about a fighter. Najee Lopez is a very good fighter, and we have a tremendous amount of respect for what he brings, but Juan Carlos has had an outstanding camp. He's been disciplined from day one. He showed up, did the work, listened and never looked for the easy way out. As a trainer, that's all you can ask for. He's physically and mentally prepared, and I expect people are going to see the best Juan Carlos Carrillo they've seen yet."
For Carrillo, there isn't much left to say. He will walk into the USC Galen Center as an underdog. "I'm ready," Carrillo concluded. "I respect Najee and I know he's coming to fight, but I'm coming with everything I have. This is my opportunity, and I'm not letting it pass me by. On August 29th, people are going to know my name."
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King's Boxing has Philly show this weekend |
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On Saturday night, August 29th, Muhammad Robinson will take on Estivan Falcao in the main event of a ten-bout card at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The card is promoted by King's Promotions. Robinson, from Baltimore, is 10-1 with seven knockouts. The 22-year old is a five-year professional who in his last outing stopped Colin Huntington on April 25th in Baltimore. Falcao of Brazil has a record of 14-4 with eight knockouts. The 30-year-old is a nine year pro. Falcao, who won his first 11 bouts, has wins over Jefferson Da Silva (5-0), Djamel Dabou (18-0), James Bernadin (10-1-1). In his last bout, Falcao stopped Henrique Goncalves De Carvalho on April 25th in Serra, Brazil.
A n undercard has been assembled that will feature Albanian heavyweight Luis Gjolena (9-0-1, 6 KOs) who now resides in Bronx, New York taking on Roberto Simms (12-7-1, 3 KOs) of Saginaw, Michigan in a bout scheduled for six-rounds. Gjolena, age 21, is coming off a unanimous decision over Rydell Booker on May 16th in South Carolina. Simms has quality wins over Joe Cusumano (15-1), Colby Madison (8-0-2), Aaron Quintana (8-1-1) and James McKenzie Morrison (20-0-2) on his resume.
In eight-round bouts:
Colby Madison (13-11-3, 8 KOs) of Baltimore takes on Lemir Riley (6-7-1, 3 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA in a heavyweight fight...
Julian Gonzalez (16-2-1, 12 KOs) of Reading, PA battles Trakwon Pettis (7-1 3 KOs) of Atlanta in a lightweight contest...
Quadir Albright (12-1, 12 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Jaylan Phillips (6-6-4, 2 KOs) of Panama City Beach, Florida in a welterweight fight...
In six-round bouts:
Adrien Boler (7-0, 4 KOs) of Las Vegas fights Nick Steven Torres-Otero (5-3-2-, 3 KOs) of Moovis, Puerto Rico at junior welterweight...
James Bernadin (13-5-1, 6 KOs) of Lancaster, PA takes on Dashaun Johns (4-10, 3 KOs) of Brooklyn, NY at junior welterweight...
Devon Young (9-1, 7 KOs) will square off with Vercell Webster (3-8-1,2 KOs) of Lexington, Mississippi in a heavyweight brawl.
In four-round bouts:
Elijah Akana (1-1, 1 KO) of Honolulu, HI fights Giovanni Payne (1-1) of Richmond, VA in a cruiserweight bout...
Emmanuel Chance (4-0. 1 KO) of East Orange, NJ will take on an opponent to be named in a bantamweight fight.
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King's Boxing has Philly show this weekend
On Saturday night, August 29th, Muhammad Robinson will take on Estivan Falcao in the main event of a ten-bout card at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The card is promoted by King's Promotions. Robinson, from Baltimore, is 10-1 with seven knockouts. The 22-year old is a five-year professional who in his last outing stopped Colin Huntington on April 25th in Baltimore. Falcao of Brazil has a record of 14-4 with eight knockouts. The 30-year-old is a nine year pro. Falcao, who won his first 11 bouts, has wins over Jefferson Da Silva (5-0), Djamel Dabou (18-0), James Bernadin (10-1-1). In his last bout, Falcao stopped Henrique Goncalves De Carvalho on April 25th in Serra, Brazil.
A n undercard has been assembled that will feature Albanian heavyweight Luis Gjolena (9-0-1, 6 KOs) who now resides in Bronx, New York taking on Roberto Simms (12-7-1, 3 KOs) of Saginaw, Michigan in a bout scheduled for six-rounds. Gjolena, age 21, is coming off a unanimous decision over Rydell Booker on May 16th in South Carolina. Simms has quality wins over Joe Cusumano (15-1), Colby Madison (8-0-2), Aaron Quintana (8-1-1) and James McKenzie Morrison (20-0-2) on his resume.
In eight-round bouts:
Colby Madison (13-11-3, 8 KOs) of Baltimore takes on Lemir Riley (6-7-1, 3 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA in a heavyweight fight...
Julian Gonzalez (16-2-1, 12 KOs) of Reading, PA battles Trakwon Pettis (7-1 3 KOs) of Atlanta in a lightweight contest...
Quadir Albright (12-1, 12 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Jaylan Phillips (6-6-4, 2 KOs) of Panama City Beach, Florida in a welterweight fight...
In six-round bouts:
Adrien Boler (7-0, 4 KOs) of Las Vegas fights Nick Steven Torres-Otero (5-3-2-, 3 KOs) of Moovis, Puerto Rico at junior welterweight...
James Bernadin (13-5-1, 6 KOs) of Lancaster, PA takes on Dashaun Johns (4-10, 3 KOs) of Brooklyn, NY at junior welterweight...
Devon Young (9-1, 7 KOs) will square off with Vercell Webster (3-8-1,2 KOs) of Lexington, Mississippi in a heavyweight brawl.
In four-round bouts:
Elijah Akana (1-1, 1 KO) of Honolulu, HI fights Giovanni Payne (1-1) of Richmond, VA in a cruiserweight bout...
Emmanuel Chance (4-0. 1 KO) of East Orange, NJ will take on an opponent to be named in a bantamweight fight.
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Zolani Tete dead at age 38 |
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Former two-division champion Zolani Tete was murdered outside his home in South Africa over the weekend. He was just 38 years old and looking to come back from a PED suspension. The BBC reports that four people have been arrested in connection with the shooting death. According to the BBC, the murder was "described as an ambush in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. A young woman who was with him was also shot and is in hospital." Tete held the WBO bantamweight title from 2017 to 2019, as well as the IBF super flyweight title in 2014. In 2017, Tete knocked out Siboniso Gonya in six seconds, setting a new record for the fastest ever knockout in a world title fight. His last fight, a brutal 2023 KO win over Great Britain's Jason Cunningham, resulted in Tete getting suspended due to the presence of stanolozol, an illegal substance, in hs urine. Tete's final record is 29-4 with the Cunningham result changed to a no contest.
Boxingtalk sends its deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Zolani Tete.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
AUG. 20, 2023: According to South African website Dispatch Live, former two-division champion Zolani Tete has been suspended for four years in the United Kingdom for doping violations committed in 2022. The prohibited substance, stanozolol, a muscle-cutting agent, was found in Tete's urine after a brutal fourth-round knockout win over Jason Cunningham at Wembley Arena in England on July 2, 2022. The suspension was issued by United Kingdom Anti-Doping (AKAD) on Saturday. It remains to be seen if Tete's native South Africa will honor the suspension. A former champion at 115 and 118 pounds, Tete has not fought since the Cunninghan bout. Meanwhile, Cunningham has fought twice since the Tete fight, winning once and losing once, DEC 1, 2022: The WBO has ordered Zolani Tete of South Africa to show cause within the next ten days why he should not lose his position in the WBO ratings in the junior featherweight division over a positive test for performance enhancing substances. The order was contained in a letter from the WBO to Tete's promoter, Frank Warren's Queensberry Promotions. Tete last fought in July, defeating Jason Cunningham in brutal fashion in the fourth round. The bout was supposed to be a test for Tete (30-4) in his third weight class, super bantamweight, but he won easily. Tete knocked Cunningham down in round four. Cunningham got back up, and Tete made him sorry for his effort, finishing off Cunningham by leaving him unconscious on the mat. The Commonwealth super bantamweight championship was on the line for the Tete-Cunningham clash.
JULY 3, 2022: In London, former two-division champion Zolani Tete of South Africa defeated Jason Cunningham in brutal fashion in the fourth round. The bout was supposed to be a test for Tete (30-4) in his third weight class, super bantamweight, but he won easily. Tete knocked Cunningham down in round four. Cunningham got back up, and Tete made him sorry for his effort, finishing off Cunningham in hall-of-fame fashion that left Cunningham unconscious on the mat. Age 34, Tete last held a world title at bantamweight, the WBO belt. Prior to that, he held the IBF super flyweight title, which he won by defeating Paul Butler in Liverpool back in 2015. A shock defeat to John Riel Casimero cost him his bantamweight title in late 2019 and prompted a move to super bantamweight. Tete returned to the ring in with a first-round stoppage over weak opposition in Johannesburg in December 2021.
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Zolani Tete dead at age 38
Former two-division champion Zolani Tete was murdered outside his home in South Africa over the weekend. He was just 38 years old and looking to come back from a PED suspension. The BBC reports that four people have been arrested in connection with the shooting death. According to the BBC, the murder was "described as an ambush in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. A young woman who was with him was also shot and is in hospital." Tete held the WBO bantamweight title from 2017 to 2019, as well as the IBF super flyweight title in 2014. In 2017, Tete knocked out Siboniso Gonya in six seconds, setting a new record for the fastest ever knockout in a world title fight. His last fight, a brutal 2023 KO win over Great Britain's Jason Cunningham, resulted in Tete getting suspended due to the presence of stanolozol, an illegal substance, in hs urine. Tete's final record is 29-4 with the Cunningham result changed to a no contest.
Boxingtalk sends its deepest sympathies to the friends and family of Zolani Tete.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
AUG. 20, 2023: According to South African website Dispatch Live, former two-division champion Zolani Tete has been suspended for four years in the United Kingdom for doping violations committed in 2022. The prohibited substance, stanozolol, a muscle-cutting agent, was found in Tete's urine after a brutal fourth-round knockout win over Jason Cunningham at Wembley Arena in England on July 2, 2022. The suspension was issued by United Kingdom Anti-Doping (AKAD) on Saturday. It remains to be seen if Tete's native South Africa will honor the suspension. A former champion at 115 and 118 pounds, Tete has not fought since the Cunninghan bout. Meanwhile, Cunningham has fought twice since the Tete fight, winning once and losing once, DEC 1, 2022: The WBO has ordered Zolani Tete of South Africa to show cause within the next ten days why he should not lose his position in the WBO ratings in the junior featherweight division over a positive test for performance enhancing substances. The order was contained in a letter from the WBO to Tete's promoter, Frank Warren's Queensberry Promotions. Tete last fought in July, defeating Jason Cunningham in brutal fashion in the fourth round. The bout was supposed to be a test for Tete (30-4) in his third weight class, super bantamweight, but he won easily. Tete knocked Cunningham down in round four. Cunningham got back up, and Tete made him sorry for his effort, finishing off Cunningham by leaving him unconscious on the mat. The Commonwealth super bantamweight championship was on the line for the Tete-Cunningham clash.
JULY 3, 2022: In London, former two-division champion Zolani Tete of South Africa defeated Jason Cunningham in brutal fashion in the fourth round. The bout was supposed to be a test for Tete (30-4) in his third weight class, super bantamweight, but he won easily. Tete knocked Cunningham down in round four. Cunningham got back up, and Tete made him sorry for his effort, finishing off Cunningham in hall-of-fame fashion that left Cunningham unconscious on the mat. Age 34, Tete last held a world title at bantamweight, the WBO belt. Prior to that, he held the IBF super flyweight title, which he won by defeating Paul Butler in Liverpool back in 2015. A shock defeat to John Riel Casimero cost him his bantamweight title in late 2019 and prompted a move to super bantamweight. Tete returned to the ring in with a first-round stoppage over weak opposition in Johannesburg in December 2021.
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Eridson Garcia preparing for big New Jersey showdown |
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Domincan lightweight Eridson Garcia (23-2, 14 KOs) will face Alan Chaves (22-0, 19 KOs) of Buenos Aires, in a ten-round bout at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The event, promoted by Matchroom Boxing, will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and TNT in the USA. Garcia knows exactly what is in front of him. Chaves is unbeaten, carries legitimate power and will enter the ring with plenty of confidence. That's part of what makes this fight so appealing to Garcia. He isn't looking for an easy road. At this stage of his career, he wants the fights that can move him forward. And this is one of them.
Garcia has been putting in the work at home in the Dominican Republic, where long days in the gym have been mixed with the comfort of familiar surroundings. Being close to home has brought a little extra meaning to camp, but Garcia admits there hasn't been much time to relax. With a title fight approaching, the mood has been all business. “This has been a really good camp for me,” Garcia said. “It hasn’t been easy, and honestly, I wouldn’t want it to be. My team has pushed me hard because they know what this fight means to me. Every day we’re working on something, conditioning, timing, defense, putting combinations together, just trying to get a little better each time we walk into the gym.”
Training in the Dominican Republic has also reminded Garcia of the people he hopes to represent when he steps through the ropes in Newark. “There’s something special about preparing at home,” Garcia continued. “You see the people who have supported you, you see young fighters in the gym with their own dreams, and it keeps you humble. I remember being one of those kids. I’m thankful to be in this position, but being thankful doesn’t mean I’m comfortable. I’m still hungry. I feel like there is a lot more out there for me, and I have to go earn it.”
There is no mystery surrounding the danger Chaves brings. With 19 knockouts in 22 victories, the unbeaten Argentine has built a reputation as a fighter who can end a bout quickly. Garcia respects that. He just doesn't fear it. Rather than spending camp worrying about Chaves' record, Garcia has focused on the things he can control, his preparation, his game plan and his mindset. “You have to respect a guy who is 22-0 with 19 knockouts,” Garcia said. “He’s proven he’s one of the best fighters in the world. He can punch, he’s confident, and I’m sure he believes he’s coming here to beat me. I understand all of that. But I’m not going into the ring thinking about his record. When the bell rings, it’s just me and him, and we both have to fight, and he’s going to see the best version of myself.”
Garcia feels the ups and downs of his own professional journey have prepared him for a moment like this. His two defeats haven't taken away his confidence. If anything, he believes they have taught him lessons an undefeated record simply can't provide. “I’ve had nights where everything went my way, and I’ve had nights where I had to go home and really look at myself,” Garcia said. “That’s boxing. Those experiences made me grow up as a fighter. I know how to stay calm when things aren't perfect. I know how to make adjustments. Against a fighter like Chaves, those little things matter. I believe in my experience, and I believe in my ability.”
There is confidence in Garcia's words, but no bravado. He knows he still has to prove it. “I’m expecting a hard fight,” he added. “I don’t want anybody to give me anything. Of course, I think about what a win could do for me,” Garcia said. “I’m human. You think about fighting the best guys and putting yourself in position for something even greater. That’s what I want for my career. I didn't come this far just to stay in the same place.”
Still, Garcia quickly brings the conversation back to the job at hand. “None of those things happen if I don’t win this fight,” he continued. “That’s why my sole focus is on defeating Chaves. Right now, he is the biggest fight of my career because he is the next fight. I want to win... and enjoy that moment with my family and my team. After that, we can talk about what’s next.”
Bobby Harrison, President of BiYu Promotions, has watched Garcia put in the work and believes this opportunity has arrived at the right time. For Harrison, one of Garcia's most important qualities is that he understands the difference between being given an opportunity and actually taking advantage of one. “This is the kind of fight Eridson wanted,” Harrison said. “He wants to challenge himself. Alan Chaves is undefeated, he has 19 knockouts, and everybody can look at those numbers and understand what kind of fighter we're dealing with. But Eridson didn't hesitate. He believes in himself, and we believe in him.”
Harrison has also been impressed by Garcia's attitude throughout the buildup. “What I like about Eridson is that he’s hungry without feeling entitled,” Harrison continued. “He understands nobody owes him anything in this business. He's been working, he's stayed focused, and now he has a real opportunity in front of him. I'm excited for him because I know how much this means to him.”
A victory, Harrison believes, could put Garcia in an entirely different conversation at lightweight. “If Eridson goes out there and beats a 22-0 fighter with 19 knockouts, people are going to take notice,” Harrison said. “That's a meaningful win. It can help him in the rankings, lead to bigger fights and put him closer to the opportunities we've been working toward. But just like Eridson, we're not getting ahead of ourselves. First things first, we have a tough fighter in front of us, and we have to handle business.”
For Garcia, the final days leading into the fight are about staying focused and appreciating the moment without becoming overwhelmed by it. Years of training, sacrifice, wins, setbacks and lessons have brought him here. Now he wants to make it count. “I’m grateful,” Garcia said. “I'm grateful to Bobby Harrison and BiYu Promotions, my trainers, my family and everybody who has stayed with me through this journey. But I still have that hunger. I still wake up wanting more for myself and my family. This is a big opportunity, and I plan on giving everything I have to make the most of it. I want to show people that Eridson Garcia is ready for the next level.”
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Eridson Garcia preparing for big New Jersey showdown
Domincan lightweight Eridson Garcia (23-2, 14 KOs) will face Alan Chaves (22-0, 19 KOs) of Buenos Aires, in a ten-round bout at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The event, promoted by Matchroom Boxing, will be broadcast live on DAZN in the UK and TNT in the USA. Garcia knows exactly what is in front of him. Chaves is unbeaten, carries legitimate power and will enter the ring with plenty of confidence. That's part of what makes this fight so appealing to Garcia. He isn't looking for an easy road. At this stage of his career, he wants the fights that can move him forward. And this is one of them.
Garcia has been putting in the work at home in the Dominican Republic, where long days in the gym have been mixed with the comfort of familiar surroundings. Being close to home has brought a little extra meaning to camp, but Garcia admits there hasn't been much time to relax. With a title fight approaching, the mood has been all business. “This has been a really good camp for me,” Garcia said. “It hasn’t been easy, and honestly, I wouldn’t want it to be. My team has pushed me hard because they know what this fight means to me. Every day we’re working on something, conditioning, timing, defense, putting combinations together, just trying to get a little better each time we walk into the gym.”
Training in the Dominican Republic has also reminded Garcia of the people he hopes to represent when he steps through the ropes in Newark. “There’s something special about preparing at home,” Garcia continued. “You see the people who have supported you, you see young fighters in the gym with their own dreams, and it keeps you humble. I remember being one of those kids. I’m thankful to be in this position, but being thankful doesn’t mean I’m comfortable. I’m still hungry. I feel like there is a lot more out there for me, and I have to go earn it.”
There is no mystery surrounding the danger Chaves brings. With 19 knockouts in 22 victories, the unbeaten Argentine has built a reputation as a fighter who can end a bout quickly. Garcia respects that. He just doesn't fear it. Rather than spending camp worrying about Chaves' record, Garcia has focused on the things he can control, his preparation, his game plan and his mindset. “You have to respect a guy who is 22-0 with 19 knockouts,” Garcia said. “He’s proven he’s one of the best fighters in the world. He can punch, he’s confident, and I’m sure he believes he’s coming here to beat me. I understand all of that. But I’m not going into the ring thinking about his record. When the bell rings, it’s just me and him, and we both have to fight, and he’s going to see the best version of myself.”
Garcia feels the ups and downs of his own professional journey have prepared him for a moment like this. His two defeats haven't taken away his confidence. If anything, he believes they have taught him lessons an undefeated record simply can't provide. “I’ve had nights where everything went my way, and I’ve had nights where I had to go home and really look at myself,” Garcia said. “That’s boxing. Those experiences made me grow up as a fighter. I know how to stay calm when things aren't perfect. I know how to make adjustments. Against a fighter like Chaves, those little things matter. I believe in my experience, and I believe in my ability.”
There is confidence in Garcia's words, but no bravado. He knows he still has to prove it. “I’m expecting a hard fight,” he added. “I don’t want anybody to give me anything. Of course, I think about what a win could do for me,” Garcia said. “I’m human. You think about fighting the best guys and putting yourself in position for something even greater. That’s what I want for my career. I didn't come this far just to stay in the same place.”
Still, Garcia quickly brings the conversation back to the job at hand. “None of those things happen if I don’t win this fight,” he continued. “That’s why my sole focus is on defeating Chaves. Right now, he is the biggest fight of my career because he is the next fight. I want to win... and enjoy that moment with my family and my team. After that, we can talk about what’s next.”
Bobby Harrison, President of BiYu Promotions, has watched Garcia put in the work and believes this opportunity has arrived at the right time. For Harrison, one of Garcia's most important qualities is that he understands the difference between being given an opportunity and actually taking advantage of one. “This is the kind of fight Eridson wanted,” Harrison said. “He wants to challenge himself. Alan Chaves is undefeated, he has 19 knockouts, and everybody can look at those numbers and understand what kind of fighter we're dealing with. But Eridson didn't hesitate. He believes in himself, and we believe in him.”
Harrison has also been impressed by Garcia's attitude throughout the buildup. “What I like about Eridson is that he’s hungry without feeling entitled,” Harrison continued. “He understands nobody owes him anything in this business. He's been working, he's stayed focused, and now he has a real opportunity in front of him. I'm excited for him because I know how much this means to him.”
A victory, Harrison believes, could put Garcia in an entirely different conversation at lightweight. “If Eridson goes out there and beats a 22-0 fighter with 19 knockouts, people are going to take notice,” Harrison said. “That's a meaningful win. It can help him in the rankings, lead to bigger fights and put him closer to the opportunities we've been working toward. But just like Eridson, we're not getting ahead of ourselves. First things first, we have a tough fighter in front of us, and we have to handle business.”
For Garcia, the final days leading into the fight are about staying focused and appreciating the moment without becoming overwhelmed by it. Years of training, sacrifice, wins, setbacks and lessons have brought him here. Now he wants to make it count. “I’m grateful,” Garcia said. “I'm grateful to Bobby Harrison and BiYu Promotions, my trainers, my family and everybody who has stayed with me through this journey. But I still have that hunger. I still wake up wanting more for myself and my family. This is a big opportunity, and I plan on giving everything I have to make the most of it. I want to show people that Eridson Garcia is ready for the next level.”
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Zamorano continues to feast on weak opposition |
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Camila Zamorano W10 Perla Pérez... Teenager Camila “La Magnífica” Zamorano (15-0) continues to build her record against lightly qualified challengers. Over the weekend, she defended her WBC atomweight (102-pound) world title by defeating fellow Mexican Perla Pérez (9-10-1) by unanimous decision in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Throughout the scheduled ten rounds, Zamorano dictated the pace of the fight with her speed, movement, and precision. Although Pérez attempted to apply pressure and close the distance during several stretches of the bout, the champion landed the more effective and efficient punches, to maintain control of the action. At the conclusion of the fight, the judges scored the bout 97-93 and 98-92 (twice), all in favor of the champion.
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Zamorano continues to feast on weak opposition
Camila Zamorano W10 Perla Pérez... Teenager Camila “La Magnífica” Zamorano (15-0) continues to build her record against lightly qualified challengers. Over the weekend, she defended her WBC atomweight (102-pound) world title by defeating fellow Mexican Perla Pérez (9-10-1) by unanimous decision in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. Throughout the scheduled ten rounds, Zamorano dictated the pace of the fight with her speed, movement, and precision. Although Pérez attempted to apply pressure and close the distance during several stretches of the bout, the champion landed the more effective and efficient punches, to maintain control of the action. At the conclusion of the fight, the judges scored the bout 97-93 and 98-92 (twice), all in favor of the champion.
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Erik Miloc wins in Argentina |
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Erik Miloc TKO2 Roberto Carlos Sánchez Torres ... Rosario, Argentina saw local favorite Erik “El Acorazado” Miloc (12-0-1) defeat Mexico’s Roberto Carlos “El Pinky” Sánchez Torres by technical knockout in the second round. From the opening bell, both middleweights showed a willingness to exchange and fight for the victory. However, in the second round, the Rosario native completely changed the course of the bout. A powerful right uppercut landed flush on the visiting fighter and sent him to the canvas. Although Sánchez Torres (11-2) managed to get back to his feet, Miloc maintained the pressure and launched another attack that resulted in a second knockdown. With the Mexican visibly hurt and unable to respond effectively, referee Alejandro Grispo correctly stepped in to stop the fight at 2:45 of the second round, awarding Miloc the victory.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The undercard also featured several notable performances. At flyweight, Matías Medina defeated Tiago Dylan González by decision...
Alex Nahuel Alfonso stopped Yael Sebastián Chura by technical knockout in the fourth round...
Kevin Brian Furrer scored a third-round knockout over Héctor Emilio Fernández...
Santiago Cerutti defeated Josué Daniel Zacarías by decision in a featherweight bout.
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Erik Miloc wins in Argentina
Erik Miloc TKO2 Roberto Carlos Sánchez Torres ... Rosario, Argentina saw local favorite Erik “El Acorazado” Miloc (12-0-1) defeat Mexico’s Roberto Carlos “El Pinky” Sánchez Torres by technical knockout in the second round. From the opening bell, both middleweights showed a willingness to exchange and fight for the victory. However, in the second round, the Rosario native completely changed the course of the bout. A powerful right uppercut landed flush on the visiting fighter and sent him to the canvas. Although Sánchez Torres (11-2) managed to get back to his feet, Miloc maintained the pressure and launched another attack that resulted in a second knockdown. With the Mexican visibly hurt and unable to respond effectively, referee Alejandro Grispo correctly stepped in to stop the fight at 2:45 of the second round, awarding Miloc the victory.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The undercard also featured several notable performances. At flyweight, Matías Medina defeated Tiago Dylan González by decision...
Alex Nahuel Alfonso stopped Yael Sebastián Chura by technical knockout in the fourth round...
Kevin Brian Furrer scored a third-round knockout over Héctor Emilio Fernández...
Santiago Cerutti defeated Josué Daniel Zacarías by decision in a featherweight bout.
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Elizondo faces Gonzalez in battle of Nevada unbeatens |
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This Friday night, Let’s Get It On Promotions and the Silver Legacy Resort Casino host the return of pro boxing to downtown Reno, Nevada as Kenny Davis Jr. is back home against Matt Conway in the ten-round lightweight main event. In the chief supporting bout, local bragging rights will be on the line when Carson City’s Miguel “Tito” Elizondo (2-0) meets Sparks’ Smathy Silva Gonzalez in a pairing of undefeated fighters. Trained by his grandfather Jose Elizondo Sr., “Tito” is the latest in a line of professional boxers from his fighting family. Joining “Tito” on the card is his cousin Christian Avalos, who will fight Diego Dominguez in a junior welterweight bout on Friday night.
“It is cool to get to fight with my cousin by my side,” says Elizondo, a three-time National Silver Gloves champion. “It has been a dream to fight with my uncles and my cousins. I just hope we both shine brightly that night.” Uncles Diego and Jose “Chuy” Elizondo turned professional after successful amateur runs as well.
Smathy Silva Gonzalez (5-0-1, 4 KOs) also comes from a fighting family and is not a complete stranger to Elizondo, as the two sparred for eight to ten rounds early in the year. “I’m not too familiar with him, but we did spar at the beginning of this year when I was getting ready for my pro debut,” recalls Elizondo. “I sparred with him two, maybe three times. I think I got a good read on what kind of fighter he is and what he will try to do.”
It is not often that two undefeated fighters from the same region agree to fight one another early in their careers, but Elizondo has not shied away from quality competition yet. For the third time in three fights, the Carson City fighter will take on an opponent that has yet to lose as a professional. “I never doubt myself going up against anybody,” explains Elizondo. “It just shows that I have a lot of belief in myself and my ability to win. My grandpa believes in me as well. He sees the work that I put in and the talent that I have. His belief in me helps me believe in me also.”
Elizondo turned pro just days after his 19th birthday with a four-round dismantling of previously undefeated Yoel Sandobal Ochoa before his local fans and family at the Grande Exposition Hall inside the Silver Legacy Resort Casino this past March. While compiling a 49-20 amateur record, Elizondo’s career took him on the road often, so fighting with the crowd behind him was an experience the young fighter relished and looks forward to reliving at the very same venue this coming Friday. “Just my family being there feels amazing,” explains Elizondo. “Pretty much all the fights that I had were at national tournaments, so they didn’t get to see me much and didn’t get to see me perform at the highest level, so it is good to be able to be fighting locally and for them to get to see me put my skills on display.”
Elizondo’s skills have had the Northern Nevada boxing scene buzzing since throughout his amateur run. Now entering just his third pro contest, “Tito is a really special talent and we are excited to see his career begin to blossom,” says Terry Lane of Let’s Get It On Promotions. “He’s got the goods to go all the way.”
Elizondo aims to continue his upward trajectory and meet the growing expectations of his local fanbase with an impressive showing this Friday night in Downtown Reno. “They can expect to see me prove that I am great and cut from a different cloth,” says Elizondo of those that come to see him. “They can also expect to see my hand getting raised at the end of the night.”
First bell is at 7pm at the Grande Exposition Hall inside of the Silver Legacy Resort Casino 407 N. Virginia St. Reno, NV 89501. Tickets are still available and can be purchased at the Silver Legacy box office or by visiting ticketmaster.com.
Uncles Diego and Jose “Chuy” Elizondo turned professional after successful amateur runs as well.
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Elizondo faces Gonzalez in battle of Nevada unbeatens
This Friday night, Let’s Get It On Promotions and the Silver Legacy Resort Casino host the return of pro boxing to downtown Reno, Nevada as Kenny Davis Jr. is back home against Matt Conway in the ten-round lightweight main event. In the chief supporting bout, local bragging rights will be on the line when Carson City’s Miguel “Tito” Elizondo (2-0) meets Sparks’ Smathy Silva Gonzalez in a pairing of undefeated fighters. Trained by his grandfather Jose Elizondo Sr., “Tito” is the latest in a line of professional boxers from his fighting family. Joining “Tito” on the card is his cousin Christian Avalos, who will fight Diego Dominguez in a junior welterweight bout on Friday night.
“It is cool to get to fight with my cousin by my side,” says Elizondo, a three-time National Silver Gloves champion. “It has been a dream to fight with my uncles and my cousins. I just hope we both shine brightly that night.” Uncles Diego and Jose “Chuy” Elizondo turned professional after successful amateur runs as well.
Smathy Silva Gonzalez (5-0-1, 4 KOs) also comes from a fighting family and is not a complete stranger to Elizondo, as the two sparred for eight to ten rounds early in the year. “I’m not too familiar with him, but we did spar at the beginning of this year when I was getting ready for my pro debut,” recalls Elizondo. “I sparred with him two, maybe three times. I think I got a good read on what kind of fighter he is and what he will try to do.”
It is not often that two undefeated fighters from the same region agree to fight one another early in their careers, but Elizondo has not shied away from quality competition yet. For the third time in three fights, the Carson City fighter will take on an opponent that has yet to lose as a professional. “I never doubt myself going up against anybody,” explains Elizondo. “It just shows that I have a lot of belief in myself and my ability to win. My grandpa believes in me as well. He sees the work that I put in and the talent that I have. His belief in me helps me believe in me also.”
Elizondo turned pro just days after his 19th birthday with a four-round dismantling of previously undefeated Yoel Sandobal Ochoa before his local fans and family at the Grande Exposition Hall inside the Silver Legacy Resort Casino this past March. While compiling a 49-20 amateur record, Elizondo’s career took him on the road often, so fighting with the crowd behind him was an experience the young fighter relished and looks forward to reliving at the very same venue this coming Friday. “Just my family being there feels amazing,” explains Elizondo. “Pretty much all the fights that I had were at national tournaments, so they didn’t get to see me much and didn’t get to see me perform at the highest level, so it is good to be able to be fighting locally and for them to get to see me put my skills on display.”
Elizondo’s skills have had the Northern Nevada boxing scene buzzing since throughout his amateur run. Now entering just his third pro contest, “Tito is a really special talent and we are excited to see his career begin to blossom,” says Terry Lane of Let’s Get It On Promotions. “He’s got the goods to go all the way.”
Elizondo aims to continue his upward trajectory and meet the growing expectations of his local fanbase with an impressive showing this Friday night in Downtown Reno. “They can expect to see me prove that I am great and cut from a different cloth,” says Elizondo of those that come to see him. “They can also expect to see my hand getting raised at the end of the night.”
First bell is at 7pm at the Grande Exposition Hall inside of the Silver Legacy Resort Casino 407 N. Virginia St. Reno, NV 89501. Tickets are still available and can be purchased at the Silver Legacy box office or by visiting ticketmaster.com.
Uncles Diego and Jose “Chuy” Elizondo turned professional after successful amateur runs as well.
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Liddard wins European middleweight title |
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George Liddard TKO8 Dario Morello... Undefeated British middleweight George Liddard landed the European title against Italy's Dario Morello in London. Liddard was at his slick best and dominated from the outset. Morello was knocked down once in the eighth round before he was rescued by his corner before the start of round nine. The title was vacant, with Bilel Jiktou of France listed as the prior champ. Lidard is now 15-0 while Morello's record falls to 26-2.
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Liddard wins European middleweight title
George Liddard TKO8 Dario Morello... Undefeated British middleweight George Liddard landed the European title against Italy's Dario Morello in London. Liddard was at his slick best and dominated from the outset. Morello was knocked down once in the eighth round before he was rescued by his corner before the start of round nine. The title was vacant, with Bilel Jiktou of France listed as the prior champ. Lidard is now 15-0 while Morello's record falls to 26-2.
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Lopez vs. Romero post-fight analysis |
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After losing his WBA welterweight championship to Teofimo Lopez by majority decision, now ex-champ Rolando Romero expressed his disagreement with the verdict. "I got hit with two punches the whole fight that barely grazed me,” said Romero. “I was never in any trouble. When I heard 114-114 I knew it was a robbery." The numbers did not support Romero's claim. Other than round five, Romero never put together a serious offensive charge, which was reflected in the CompuBox stats: Romero failed to land double digit punches in all but the fifth round. Overall, Lopez enjoyed a 124 to 73 edge in punches and landed a career-high 62 jabs to keep Romero at bay.
Meanwhile, Lopez, now a three-division champion, shared an inspirational message about his return from defeat to world champion."If you lost and you come back, then you never lost, because you're a winner,” said Lopez. “I'm a true example of what winning is. It's about not giving up.”
Round five featured the most dramatic moment of the fight, as Romero opened up a significant cut over Lopez’s right eye, and hurt him with a series of punches that included a left hook and a looping right hand. A bloodied Lopez showed impressive boxing IQ to survive the ensuing onslaught from Romero, and was able to make it to the next round. "I expected something similar to this, but more combinations from Rolly,” said Lopez. “He was staying composed and listening to his corner. We had to push the fight. He hit me with a shot that woke me up. I told him he has to do better than that. I was just buzzed. I got right back to it. I stayed cool, calm and collected. We have the ring experience. That's what's helped me throughout my journey.”
From there, it was Lopez’s speed and boxing ability that took over, as he consistently used his footwork to flummox Romero’s offense.
Romero looked to have gained some of his momentum back in the waning seconds of round eleven when he knocked Lopez off balance again with a left hook heading into the final frame. After another highly-competitive round, the judges scored the fight 114-114, 115-113 and 116-112.
"I just had to stay busy and keep my range against a strong puncher,” said Lopez. “I'm just looking forward to the next thing."
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Lopez vs. Romero post-fight analysis
After losing his WBA welterweight championship to Teofimo Lopez by majority decision, now ex-champ Rolando Romero expressed his disagreement with the verdict. "I got hit with two punches the whole fight that barely grazed me,” said Romero. “I was never in any trouble. When I heard 114-114 I knew it was a robbery." The numbers did not support Romero's claim. Other than round five, Romero never put together a serious offensive charge, which was reflected in the CompuBox stats: Romero failed to land double digit punches in all but the fifth round. Overall, Lopez enjoyed a 124 to 73 edge in punches and landed a career-high 62 jabs to keep Romero at bay.
Meanwhile, Lopez, now a three-division champion, shared an inspirational message about his return from defeat to world champion."If you lost and you come back, then you never lost, because you're a winner,” said Lopez. “I'm a true example of what winning is. It's about not giving up.”
Round five featured the most dramatic moment of the fight, as Romero opened up a significant cut over Lopez’s right eye, and hurt him with a series of punches that included a left hook and a looping right hand. A bloodied Lopez showed impressive boxing IQ to survive the ensuing onslaught from Romero, and was able to make it to the next round. "I expected something similar to this, but more combinations from Rolly,” said Lopez. “He was staying composed and listening to his corner. We had to push the fight. He hit me with a shot that woke me up. I told him he has to do better than that. I was just buzzed. I got right back to it. I stayed cool, calm and collected. We have the ring experience. That's what's helped me throughout my journey.”
From there, it was Lopez’s speed and boxing ability that took over, as he consistently used his footwork to flummox Romero’s offense.
Romero looked to have gained some of his momentum back in the waning seconds of round eleven when he knocked Lopez off balance again with a left hook heading into the final frame. After another highly-competitive round, the judges scored the fight 114-114, 115-113 and 116-112.
"I just had to stay busy and keep my range against a strong puncher,” said Lopez. “I'm just looking forward to the next thing."
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Teofimo Lopez now a three-division champ |
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Teofimo Lopez W12 Rolly Romero... Teofimo Lopez outworked Rolly Romero at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to capture the WBA welterweight world title and become a three-division champion. Weathering a few rocky moments early on, Lopez, 147 pounds, dominated a tactical battle with jabs, footwork and a consistent attack to the body. Romero, 146.5, demonstrated he clearly had the power to hurt Lopez, but he spent too much of the bout in a shell in search of counter opportunities.
In round four, Romero caught Lopez with a sneaky counter left hook that stunned the New Yorker. In the next stanza, it was an overhand right that badly hurt and wobbled Lopez. Romero rushed in with a flurry of power punches but was a bit overzealous in his attack and pushed Lopez to the canvas for no knockdown. A blood-spattered Lopez returned to his corner with a cut over his right eye. However, Romero failed to capitalize on this success, as Lopez dominated the remainder of the contest as the busier fighter.
A questionable tally of 114-114 was overruled by scorecards of 116-112 and 115-113 to give Lopez (23-2 with 13 KOs), the majority decision victory. A dejected Romero, now 17-3 with 13 KOs, abruptly left the ring electing not to provide post-fight comments.
Originally from Broolyn, New York, Lopez was fighting in Romero's hometown. Lopez was previously the world champion at 135 pounds and 140 pounds by virtue of victories over Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor.
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Teofimo Lopez now a three-division champ
Teofimo Lopez W12 Rolly Romero... Teofimo Lopez outworked Rolly Romero at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas to capture the WBA welterweight world title and become a three-division champion. Weathering a few rocky moments early on, Lopez, 147 pounds, dominated a tactical battle with jabs, footwork and a consistent attack to the body. Romero, 146.5, demonstrated he clearly had the power to hurt Lopez, but he spent too much of the bout in a shell in search of counter opportunities.
In round four, Romero caught Lopez with a sneaky counter left hook that stunned the New Yorker. In the next stanza, it was an overhand right that badly hurt and wobbled Lopez. Romero rushed in with a flurry of power punches but was a bit overzealous in his attack and pushed Lopez to the canvas for no knockdown. A blood-spattered Lopez returned to his corner with a cut over his right eye. However, Romero failed to capitalize on this success, as Lopez dominated the remainder of the contest as the busier fighter.
A questionable tally of 114-114 was overruled by scorecards of 116-112 and 115-113 to give Lopez (23-2 with 13 KOs), the majority decision victory. A dejected Romero, now 17-3 with 13 KOs, abruptly left the ring electing not to provide post-fight comments.
Originally from Broolyn, New York, Lopez was fighting in Romero's hometown. Lopez was previously the world champion at 135 pounds and 140 pounds by virtue of victories over Vasiliy Lomachenko and Josh Taylor.
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Yoenli Hernandez wins Vegas co-feature |
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Yoenli Hernandez Francisco Daniel Veron... Cuban middleweight Yoenli Hernandez, 159.2 pounds, secured a majority decision victory over a tough Francisco Daniel Veron, 159.6, of Buenos Aires, in the co-feature before the Romero-Lopez clash. Hernandez, now based out of Providence, RI, fought aggressively from the opening bell, regularly unleashing heavy power shots. Veron stayed composed, using a steady volume of jabs to the head and body in an attempt to outbox his foe. Ultimately, Hernandez's explosive offensive bursts proved to be the difference. While one judge scored the bout a 95-95 draw, the remaining two widely favored Hernandez with lopsided tallies of 99-91 and 98-92. With the win, Hernandez improved to 11-0 with 9 KOs. Currently ranked high across all major sanctioning bodies—including #1 by the WBO and WBA, a world title shot looms in his near future. Meanwhile, Veron, who moved up from junior middleweight for this contest, drops to 17-2-1 with 10 KOs) after a gritty performance at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena.
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Yoenli Hernandez wins Vegas co-feature
Yoenli Hernandez Francisco Daniel Veron... Cuban middleweight Yoenli Hernandez, 159.2 pounds, secured a majority decision victory over a tough Francisco Daniel Veron, 159.6, of Buenos Aires, in the co-feature before the Romero-Lopez clash. Hernandez, now based out of Providence, RI, fought aggressively from the opening bell, regularly unleashing heavy power shots. Veron stayed composed, using a steady volume of jabs to the head and body in an attempt to outbox his foe. Ultimately, Hernandez's explosive offensive bursts proved to be the difference. While one judge scored the bout a 95-95 draw, the remaining two widely favored Hernandez with lopsided tallies of 99-91 and 98-92. With the win, Hernandez improved to 11-0 with 9 KOs. Currently ranked high across all major sanctioning bodies—including #1 by the WBO and WBA, a world title shot looms in his near future. Meanwhile, Veron, who moved up from junior middleweight for this contest, drops to 17-2-1 with 10 KOs) after a gritty performance at Las Vegas' T-Mobile Arena.
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Russell takes interim title from Santillan |
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Gary Antonio Russell W12 Victor Santillan.... In just his third fight since his lone defeat in October 2022, Gary Antonio Russell captured the interim WBA super bantamweight title via unanimous decision against Victor Santillan of the Dominican Republic. At the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Russell, 121.2 lbs., of Capitol Heights, MD, was the busier fighter throughout, landing flurries of punches on the inside. Santillan, 121.6 lbs., pressed forward for much of this battle of southpaws, but could not keep up with Russell’s pace. Russell, now 22-1 with 13 KOs, punctuated his victory with a twelfth-round knockdown, catching Santillan with a counter right hook to the chin. The scores were 119-108 (twice) and 118-109. Suffering his first loss outside of Japan, Santillan saw his record drop to 16-3 with 7 KOs. While Russell claimed his first title, Naoya Inoue remains the undisputed super bantamweight world champion and has been since 2023.
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Russell takes interim title from Santillan
Gary Antonio Russell W12 Victor Santillan.... In just his third fight since his lone defeat in October 2022, Gary Antonio Russell captured the interim WBA super bantamweight title via unanimous decision against Victor Santillan of the Dominican Republic. At the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Russell, 121.2 lbs., of Capitol Heights, MD, was the busier fighter throughout, landing flurries of punches on the inside. Santillan, 121.6 lbs., pressed forward for much of this battle of southpaws, but could not keep up with Russell’s pace. Russell, now 22-1 with 13 KOs, punctuated his victory with a twelfth-round knockdown, catching Santillan with a counter right hook to the chin. The scores were 119-108 (twice) and 118-109. Suffering his first loss outside of Japan, Santillan saw his record drop to 16-3 with 7 KOs. While Russell claimed his first title, Naoya Inoue remains the undisputed super bantamweight world champion and has been since 2023.
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Colombia's Carlos Utria wins by split decision |
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Carlos Utria W10 Israel Mercado... To open up the PBC pay-per-view broadcast in Las Vegas, Colombia's Carlos Utria, 140.8 pounds, escaped with his undefeated record intact by narrowly outpointing Israel Mercado, 139.4, of Montclair, CA. Throughout the contest from the T-Mobile Arena, both Utria and Mercado were intent on throwing wild haymakers, making for some exciting moments. Because Utria (15-0, 11 KOs) mostly fought with his hands near his waist, leaving his chin wide open, Mercado tagged him with some eye-catching stingers. Utria is a hard puncher but his skills are still raw. He won the WBC Grand Prix tournament in Saudi Arabia last year, and played the aggressor for much of tonight's bout. Early on, Mercado fought on the backfoot focused on counter opportunities. Taking advantage whenever Utria’s punch output waned, Mercado really upped his tempo in the later rounds. The judges’ scorecards read 96-94 each way, with a somewhat wide 97-93 tally for Utria to give him the split decision verdict. Mercado saw his record dip to 13-2-2, 7 KOs.
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Colombia's Carlos Utria wins by split decision
Carlos Utria W10 Israel Mercado... To open up the PBC pay-per-view broadcast in Las Vegas, Colombia's Carlos Utria, 140.8 pounds, escaped with his undefeated record intact by narrowly outpointing Israel Mercado, 139.4, of Montclair, CA. Throughout the contest from the T-Mobile Arena, both Utria and Mercado were intent on throwing wild haymakers, making for some exciting moments. Because Utria (15-0, 11 KOs) mostly fought with his hands near his waist, leaving his chin wide open, Mercado tagged him with some eye-catching stingers. Utria is a hard puncher but his skills are still raw. He won the WBC Grand Prix tournament in Saudi Arabia last year, and played the aggressor for much of tonight's bout. Early on, Mercado fought on the backfoot focused on counter opportunities. Taking advantage whenever Utria’s punch output waned, Mercado really upped his tempo in the later rounds. The judges’ scorecards read 96-94 each way, with a somewhat wide 97-93 tally for Utria to give him the split decision verdict. Mercado saw his record dip to 13-2-2, 7 KOs.
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Undercard results from Las Vegas |
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Marco Romero TKO1 Kahlil Mitchell... With pressure and aggression, Marco Romero, 164 lbs., of Olathe, KS, destroyed southpaw Kahlil Mitchell, 164 lbs., of Chattanooga, TN, inside the opening frame. Swarming his prey from the bell, Romero (15-0, 13 KOs) quickly trapped Mitchell in a neutral corner, unloading a barrage of leather until the referee halted the action at the 2:33 mark. Romero was a national Golden Gloves champion, winning 23 national amateur titles overall. Mitchell left the ring at 6-2-0, 4 KOs.
Joseph Brown W6 Alton Wiggins... Junior middleweight Joseph Brown, 157.4 lbs., who holds dual citizenship between the U.S. and Canada, outpointed southpaw Alton Wiggins, 156.8 lbs., of Modesto, CA, over eight dominant rounds. All three judges tallied 60-54. Trained by his father, Martin, the 19-year-old Brown improved to 8-0-0, 5 KOs. Wiggins is now 3-3-1. Before turning to pro boxing in 2023, Brown excelled in amateur taekwondo, kickboxing and muay thai.
Aldo Blancas W4 Ricky Mamone... Aldo Blancas, 140.2 lbs., the 19-year-old younger brother of super middleweight Daniel Blancas, defeated Ricky Mamone, 142 lbs., of Salt Lake City, via four-round unanimous decision. The scorecards read 40-35, and 39-36 (twice). Blancas, of Milwaukee, dropped Mamone, now 0-0-1, in round two with a left hook to the ribs. Trained by his father, Ignacio, and Jose Benavidez Sr., Blancas, 3-0-0, 2 KOs, was a five-time national amateur champion.
Benjamin Johnson W6 Jose Gabriel Rodriguez... Benjamin Johnson, 149.4 lbs., a 21-year-old welterweight from Springdale, MD, was taken the distance for the first time, earning a six-round unanimous decision against Jose Gabriel Rodriguez, 150 lbs., of Guayaquil, Ecuador. A twelve-time national amateur champion, Johnson is trained by Lamont Roach Sr. With scores of 60-54 twice, and 59-55, Johnson earned a unanimous decision to improve to 8-0-0, 7 KOs. Rodriguez’s record evened out at 4-4-1, 3 KOs.
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Undercard results from Las Vegas
Marco Romero TKO1 Kahlil Mitchell... With pressure and aggression, Marco Romero, 164 lbs., of Olathe, KS, destroyed southpaw Kahlil Mitchell, 164 lbs., of Chattanooga, TN, inside the opening frame. Swarming his prey from the bell, Romero (15-0, 13 KOs) quickly trapped Mitchell in a neutral corner, unloading a barrage of leather until the referee halted the action at the 2:33 mark. Romero was a national Golden Gloves champion, winning 23 national amateur titles overall. Mitchell left the ring at 6-2-0, 4 KOs.
Joseph Brown W6 Alton Wiggins... Junior middleweight Joseph Brown, 157.4 lbs., who holds dual citizenship between the U.S. and Canada, outpointed southpaw Alton Wiggins, 156.8 lbs., of Modesto, CA, over eight dominant rounds. All three judges tallied 60-54. Trained by his father, Martin, the 19-year-old Brown improved to 8-0-0, 5 KOs. Wiggins is now 3-3-1. Before turning to pro boxing in 2023, Brown excelled in amateur taekwondo, kickboxing and muay thai.
Aldo Blancas W4 Ricky Mamone... Aldo Blancas, 140.2 lbs., the 19-year-old younger brother of super middleweight Daniel Blancas, defeated Ricky Mamone, 142 lbs., of Salt Lake City, via four-round unanimous decision. The scorecards read 40-35, and 39-36 (twice). Blancas, of Milwaukee, dropped Mamone, now 0-0-1, in round two with a left hook to the ribs. Trained by his father, Ignacio, and Jose Benavidez Sr., Blancas, 3-0-0, 2 KOs, was a five-time national amateur champion.
Benjamin Johnson W6 Jose Gabriel Rodriguez... Benjamin Johnson, 149.4 lbs., a 21-year-old welterweight from Springdale, MD, was taken the distance for the first time, earning a six-round unanimous decision against Jose Gabriel Rodriguez, 150 lbs., of Guayaquil, Ecuador. A twelve-time national amateur champion, Johnson is trained by Lamont Roach Sr. With scores of 60-54 twice, and 59-55, Johnson earned a unanimous decision to improve to 8-0-0, 7 KOs. Rodriguez’s record evened out at 4-4-1, 3 KOs.
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Serrano pushed; edges Manzur by majority decision |
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Amanda Serrano W12 Lucrecia Manzur... Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California hosted an MVP Promotions show, headlined by Amanda Serrano surviving twelve hard rounds with Argentina’s Lucrecia Manzur to keep her world featherweight championship and collect the fiftieth win of her career. Serrano won via majority decision, with scores of 114-114 and 116-112 (twice). Serrano last fought in May, defeating Cheyenne Hanson and tying the legendary Christy Martin for the most knockouts in women’s boxing with 32. She was unable to get the record-breaking stoppage against Manzur.
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Serrano pushed; edges Manzur by majority decision
Amanda Serrano W12 Lucrecia Manzur... Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California hosted an MVP Promotions show, headlined by Amanda Serrano surviving twelve hard rounds with Argentina’s Lucrecia Manzur to keep her world featherweight championship and collect the fiftieth win of her career. Serrano won via majority decision, with scores of 114-114 and 116-112 (twice). Serrano last fought in May, defeating Cheyenne Hanson and tying the legendary Christy Martin for the most knockouts in women’s boxing with 32. She was unable to get the record-breaking stoppage against Manzur.
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New champion alert: Melissa Mortensen reign begins |
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Melissa Mortensen W10 Mayelli Flores ... The night’s other title fight at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California produced a new champion, as Denmark's Melissa Mortensen climbed off the deck from a knockdown to edge Mayelli Flores of Mexico by split decision and claim the vacant WBA super bantamweight belt. In round two, Flores landed a hook to the body that dropped Mortensen. By round seven, blood was flowing from Mortensen’s nose. In the end however, Mortensen defeated Flores via scores of 95-94 (twice) and 94-95. She improves to 10-0 and claimed the vacant WBA 122-pound title. Flores (13-4-1) formerly held this title, but lost it to Ellie Scotney in April. Scotney then moved up to featherweight, allowing Mortensen and Flores to vie for the vacant title.
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New champion alert: Melissa Mortensen reign begins
Melissa Mortensen W10 Mayelli Flores ... The night’s other title fight at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California produced a new champion, as Denmark's Melissa Mortensen climbed off the deck from a knockdown to edge Mayelli Flores of Mexico by split decision and claim the vacant WBA super bantamweight belt. In round two, Flores landed a hook to the body that dropped Mortensen. By round seven, blood was flowing from Mortensen’s nose. In the end however, Mortensen defeated Flores via scores of 95-94 (twice) and 94-95. She improves to 10-0 and claimed the vacant WBA 122-pound title. Flores (13-4-1) formerly held this title, but lost it to Ellie Scotney in April. Scotney then moved up to featherweight, allowing Mortensen and Flores to vie for the vacant title.
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas |
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Here are the boxers' official weights for Saturday night's pay-per-view card in Las Vegas:
Rolando Romero, 146.6 pounds -vs.- Teofimo Lopez, 147 (WBA welterweight title, twelve rounds);
Yoenli Hernandez, 159.2 pounds -vs.- Francisco Daniel Veron, 159.6 (middleweight, ten rounds);
Victor Santillan, 121.6 pounds -vs.- Gary Antonio Russell, 121.2 (WBA super bantamweight title, twelve rounds);
Carlos Utria, 140.8 pounds -vs.- Israel Mercado, 139.4 (junior welterweight, ten rounds);
Marco Romero, 164 pounds -vs.- Kahlil Mitchell, 164 (middleweight, eight rounds);
Joseph Brown, 157.4 pounds -vs.- Alton Wiggins, 156.8 (junior middleweight, six rounds);
Aldo Blancas, 140.2 pounds -vs.- Ricky Mamone, 142 (junior welterweight, four rounds);
Benjamin Johnson, 149.4 pounds -vs.- Jose Gabriel Rodriguez, 150 (welterweight, six rounds).
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Weigh-in report from Las Vegas
Here are the boxers' official weights for Saturday night's pay-per-view card in Las Vegas:
Rolando Romero, 146.6 pounds -vs.- Teofimo Lopez, 147 (WBA welterweight title, twelve rounds);
Yoenli Hernandez, 159.2 pounds -vs.- Francisco Daniel Veron, 159.6 (middleweight, ten rounds);
Victor Santillan, 121.6 pounds -vs.- Gary Antonio Russell, 121.2 (WBA super bantamweight title, twelve rounds);
Carlos Utria, 140.8 pounds -vs.- Israel Mercado, 139.4 (junior welterweight, ten rounds);
Marco Romero, 164 pounds -vs.- Kahlil Mitchell, 164 (middleweight, eight rounds);
Joseph Brown, 157.4 pounds -vs.- Alton Wiggins, 156.8 (junior middleweight, six rounds);
Aldo Blancas, 140.2 pounds -vs.- Ricky Mamone, 142 (junior welterweight, four rounds);
Benjamin Johnson, 149.4 pounds -vs.- Jose Gabriel Rodriguez, 150 (welterweight, six rounds).
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The Boxingtalk scoreboard: MVP undercard results |
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Jahmal Harvey KO2 Hammet Keb... Jahmal Harvey stayed perfect at 4-0, ending his lightweight bout with Hammet Keb in spectacular fashion via a right hand that left the Mexican flat on the canvas at 2:48 of the second round. The 2021 World Amateur champion and Paris Olympian dominated from the opening bell, breaking Keb down with combinations upstairs and heavy body work before landing the finishing blow. Keb, who had knocked out an unbeaten opponent in 27 seconds in May, drops to 7-3-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Avious Griffin moved to 20-1 after breaking down Jackson Marinez in a welterweight showdown between two veterans, dropping the Dominican twice in a decisive fifth round. Marinez had held his own early behind steady left hands and body work, but Griffin took over as the fight wore on, trapping him on the ropes and landing sharp right hands to score both knockdowns. Marinez beat the count each time, but his corner pulled him out before the sixth, handing him a fifth career loss at 23-5.
Keno Marley made it three straight wins to open his pro career, dropping Braylan Brooks with a thunderous right hand at 1:46 of the third round for the knockout. The two-time Brazilian Olympian took over early, staggering Brooks in the opening round and controlling the cruiserweight bout with a steady stream of left hands and body shots. Brooks, who debuted just 20 days earlier, went to a knee and could not beat the count, falling to 1-1.
Nelvie Tiafack remained perfect at 5-0, overwhelming previously unbeaten Salvador Zavala with relentless volume before the referee waved it off 55 seconds into the third round. The 2024 Olympic bronze medalist controlled the fight from the opening bell, pinning Zavala on the ropes and piling up left hands and body work while the American — fighting for the first time since April 2023 — struggled to mount any sustained offense. Zavala falls to 7-1 in his return from a long layoff.
Brook Sibrian pulled off the upset, handing 12-0 Lupita Medina the first defeat of her career with a punishing eight-round performance built on volume combinations and relentless body work. Sibrian set the pace from the opening bell and took control down the stretch, backing Medina up repeatedly while landing the cleaner, harder shots in close. All three judges favored Sibrian, scoring the bout 77-75 and 78-74 twice, as she improved to 10-3 and Medina fell to 12-1.
Cinderella Linnear pulled off the upset in her first fight in a year, taking a narrow split decision over former Misfits Boxing cruiserweight champion Jully “Poca” Oliveira. The 32-year-old worked behind consistent pressure and body shots across the four rounds, while Oliveira countered effectively from the outside with hooks and right hands in a fight that stayed close throughout. Two judges scored it 39-37 for Linnear and the third had Oliveira ahead 39-37, moving Linnear to 2-0 and handing Poca her first official pro loss.
Iyana “Roxy” Verduzco moved to 8-0 after surviving a grueling eight-round battle with Dominican Olympian Miguelina Hernandez, taking a split decision in a fight that could have gone either way. Verduzco built an early lead with body work and combinations, but Hernandez surged in the second half, opening a cut around Verduzco’s nose in the fifth and pressing the action down the stretch. Two judges sided with Verduzco at 77-75 and 78-74, while the third had Hernandez ahead 78-74, handing the 4-0 Dominican her first professional loss.
Jocelyn Camarillo pushed her record to 7-0, outworking Mexico’s Ashley Felix over six competitive rounds in their minimumweight matchup. The former U.S. national champion mixed steady left hands with consistent body work, hurting Felix in the third and fourth rounds, though the veteran kept firing back and made Camarillo earn every minute. The judges scored it 58-56, 59-55 and 60-54 for Camarillo, with Felix falling to 7-5.
Paolo Barredo remained unbeaten at 7-0, controlling Jorge Garcia across six rounds of lightweight action in Florida with a steady diet of left hands and heavy body work. The 19-year-old repeatedly cracked Garcia with flush right hands, particularly in the fifth round, but the durable Mexican survived every scare and kept pressing forward to the final bell. All three judges favored Barredo, scoring the bout 60-54 (twice) and 59-55, as Garcia dropped to 3-2.
Albina Moldazhanova needed just 81 seconds to hand Sheila Liesegang the first loss of her career, walking the Uruguayan down to the ropes and dropping her with a punishing body shot that forced an immediate stoppage. The win moves the 2024 European Championships silver medalist to 5-0 with five knockouts, while Liesegang falls to 6-1.
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The Boxingtalk scoreboard: MVP undercard results
Jahmal Harvey KO2 Hammet Keb... Jahmal Harvey stayed perfect at 4-0, ending his lightweight bout with Hammet Keb in spectacular fashion via a right hand that left the Mexican flat on the canvas at 2:48 of the second round. The 2021 World Amateur champion and Paris Olympian dominated from the opening bell, breaking Keb down with combinations upstairs and heavy body work before landing the finishing blow. Keb, who had knocked out an unbeaten opponent in 27 seconds in May, drops to 7-3-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Avious Griffin moved to 20-1 after breaking down Jackson Marinez in a welterweight showdown between two veterans, dropping the Dominican twice in a decisive fifth round. Marinez had held his own early behind steady left hands and body work, but Griffin took over as the fight wore on, trapping him on the ropes and landing sharp right hands to score both knockdowns. Marinez beat the count each time, but his corner pulled him out before the sixth, handing him a fifth career loss at 23-5.
Keno Marley made it three straight wins to open his pro career, dropping Braylan Brooks with a thunderous right hand at 1:46 of the third round for the knockout. The two-time Brazilian Olympian took over early, staggering Brooks in the opening round and controlling the cruiserweight bout with a steady stream of left hands and body shots. Brooks, who debuted just 20 days earlier, went to a knee and could not beat the count, falling to 1-1.
Nelvie Tiafack remained perfect at 5-0, overwhelming previously unbeaten Salvador Zavala with relentless volume before the referee waved it off 55 seconds into the third round. The 2024 Olympic bronze medalist controlled the fight from the opening bell, pinning Zavala on the ropes and piling up left hands and body work while the American — fighting for the first time since April 2023 — struggled to mount any sustained offense. Zavala falls to 7-1 in his return from a long layoff.
Brook Sibrian pulled off the upset, handing 12-0 Lupita Medina the first defeat of her career with a punishing eight-round performance built on volume combinations and relentless body work. Sibrian set the pace from the opening bell and took control down the stretch, backing Medina up repeatedly while landing the cleaner, harder shots in close. All three judges favored Sibrian, scoring the bout 77-75 and 78-74 twice, as she improved to 10-3 and Medina fell to 12-1.
Cinderella Linnear pulled off the upset in her first fight in a year, taking a narrow split decision over former Misfits Boxing cruiserweight champion Jully “Poca” Oliveira. The 32-year-old worked behind consistent pressure and body shots across the four rounds, while Oliveira countered effectively from the outside with hooks and right hands in a fight that stayed close throughout. Two judges scored it 39-37 for Linnear and the third had Oliveira ahead 39-37, moving Linnear to 2-0 and handing Poca her first official pro loss.
Iyana “Roxy” Verduzco moved to 8-0 after surviving a grueling eight-round battle with Dominican Olympian Miguelina Hernandez, taking a split decision in a fight that could have gone either way. Verduzco built an early lead with body work and combinations, but Hernandez surged in the second half, opening a cut around Verduzco’s nose in the fifth and pressing the action down the stretch. Two judges sided with Verduzco at 77-75 and 78-74, while the third had Hernandez ahead 78-74, handing the 4-0 Dominican her first professional loss.
Jocelyn Camarillo pushed her record to 7-0, outworking Mexico’s Ashley Felix over six competitive rounds in their minimumweight matchup. The former U.S. national champion mixed steady left hands with consistent body work, hurting Felix in the third and fourth rounds, though the veteran kept firing back and made Camarillo earn every minute. The judges scored it 58-56, 59-55 and 60-54 for Camarillo, with Felix falling to 7-5.
Paolo Barredo remained unbeaten at 7-0, controlling Jorge Garcia across six rounds of lightweight action in Florida with a steady diet of left hands and heavy body work. The 19-year-old repeatedly cracked Garcia with flush right hands, particularly in the fifth round, but the durable Mexican survived every scare and kept pressing forward to the final bell. All three judges favored Barredo, scoring the bout 60-54 (twice) and 59-55, as Garcia dropped to 3-2.
Albina Moldazhanova needed just 81 seconds to hand Sheila Liesegang the first loss of her career, walking the Uruguayan down to the ropes and dropping her with a punishing body shot that forced an immediate stoppage. The win moves the 2024 European Championships silver medalist to 5-0 with five knockouts, while Liesegang falls to 6-1.
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Introducing British junior middleweight Odel Kamara |
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Junior middleweight Odel Kamara has officially turned professional and has signed promotional terms with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. The 22-year old from Liverpool will be trained by Tony Sims in Essex and news of his debut will be announced imminently. As an amateur, Kamara represented Great Britain, fighting out of Salisbury Amateur Boxing Club, where he won seven national titles, including the coveted Senior Elite Championship. That success earned him a place on the GB Boxing programme, where he continued to develop against some of the world’s leading amateur fighters.
The proud Merseyside man enjoyed a breakthrough 2024 on the international circuit, winning gold at the Dacal Memorial World Cup before claiming the 71kg title at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Sheffield. In the final, he defeated Japan’s Sewon Okazawa by unanimous decision to secure one of the biggest victories of his amateur career. His most significant achievement came last year, when he represented England at the World Boxing Championships in his home city of Liverpool.
Competing at 70kg, Kamara went on to claim a bronze medal, including a unanimous decision victory over Canada’s Kuwardeep Manu after flooring his opponent just three seconds into the opening round.
Now that Matchroom Boxing has won the race for his signature, Kamara is ready to unleash his skills on the paid stage. Kamara said: “After my decision to turn professional, my attention was firmly on who I thought was best to guide me to the very top of this sport. I met with Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith and I knew straight away that Matchroom Boxing was the place for me.”
A date for Kamara’s eagerly anticipated debut will be announced in due course – and he has promised fans he will provide plenty of bang for their buck. “Expect fireworks because I want to give the fans value for money every time I’m in the ring,” Kamara added. “I want to become a superstar in the sport and I know I’m in the right place and the right platform with DAZN to do just that. See you all soon.”
Matchroom sport chairman Eddie Hearn is delighted to have secured Kamara’s services and expects him to live up to the hype. Hearn said: “Kamara is one of the future faces of British boxing. This kid has got it all: he has got the looks, the personality, the power, and, above all, he can really fight. I think Kamara will be in the conversation over time as one of the most exciting stars we’ve ever produced in this country. We had a lot of competition to sign him and I am thrilled he chose Matchroom Boxing. This young man is going to bring some major nights to Liverpool and, believe me, he is going to light up the world’s stage before long.”
Kamara’s Boxing Advisor Sam Jones believes his man will fulfil his potential and go on to achieve his goal of becoming a household name in the sport. Jones said: “There’s no secret every manager and promoter in the world wanted Odel so I was delighted to secure his signature. Myself and Odel spoke to promoters but Matchroom Boxing made their intentions very clear from the off and that reflected with the offer they made to us. I am personally delighted to get this long-term deal done with Matchroom Boxing and I’d like to thank Eddie Hearn, Frank Smith, Jai Singh and Tom Grant for getting this huge deal done. Odel is superstar in the making that I truly believe will go mainstream. The journey starts now.”
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Introducing British junior middleweight Odel Kamara
Junior middleweight Odel Kamara has officially turned professional and has signed promotional terms with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing. The 22-year old from Liverpool will be trained by Tony Sims in Essex and news of his debut will be announced imminently. As an amateur, Kamara represented Great Britain, fighting out of Salisbury Amateur Boxing Club, where he won seven national titles, including the coveted Senior Elite Championship. That success earned him a place on the GB Boxing programme, where he continued to develop against some of the world’s leading amateur fighters.
The proud Merseyside man enjoyed a breakthrough 2024 on the international circuit, winning gold at the Dacal Memorial World Cup before claiming the 71kg title at the World Boxing Cup Finals in Sheffield. In the final, he defeated Japan’s Sewon Okazawa by unanimous decision to secure one of the biggest victories of his amateur career. His most significant achievement came last year, when he represented England at the World Boxing Championships in his home city of Liverpool.
Competing at 70kg, Kamara went on to claim a bronze medal, including a unanimous decision victory over Canada’s Kuwardeep Manu after flooring his opponent just three seconds into the opening round.
Now that Matchroom Boxing has won the race for his signature, Kamara is ready to unleash his skills on the paid stage. Kamara said: “After my decision to turn professional, my attention was firmly on who I thought was best to guide me to the very top of this sport. I met with Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith and I knew straight away that Matchroom Boxing was the place for me.”
A date for Kamara’s eagerly anticipated debut will be announced in due course – and he has promised fans he will provide plenty of bang for their buck. “Expect fireworks because I want to give the fans value for money every time I’m in the ring,” Kamara added. “I want to become a superstar in the sport and I know I’m in the right place and the right platform with DAZN to do just that. See you all soon.”
Matchroom sport chairman Eddie Hearn is delighted to have secured Kamara’s services and expects him to live up to the hype. Hearn said: “Kamara is one of the future faces of British boxing. This kid has got it all: he has got the looks, the personality, the power, and, above all, he can really fight. I think Kamara will be in the conversation over time as one of the most exciting stars we’ve ever produced in this country. We had a lot of competition to sign him and I am thrilled he chose Matchroom Boxing. This young man is going to bring some major nights to Liverpool and, believe me, he is going to light up the world’s stage before long.”
Kamara’s Boxing Advisor Sam Jones believes his man will fulfil his potential and go on to achieve his goal of becoming a household name in the sport. Jones said: “There’s no secret every manager and promoter in the world wanted Odel so I was delighted to secure his signature. Myself and Odel spoke to promoters but Matchroom Boxing made their intentions very clear from the off and that reflected with the offer they made to us. I am personally delighted to get this long-term deal done with Matchroom Boxing and I’d like to thank Eddie Hearn, Frank Smith, Jai Singh and Tom Grant for getting this huge deal done. Odel is superstar in the making that I truly believe will go mainstream. The journey starts now.”
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Teo to Rolly: "All the times we sparred, I took it light on you" |
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WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez went face-to-face during a tense final press conference on Thursday to preview their world title clash that headlines a pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video this Saturday, August 22nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. During Thursday’s press conference the two longtime friends promised to leave that friendship aside when the fight begins, and had a heated exchange about the details of their shared history. The tensions nearly boiled over between the fighter’s respective teams as well, with insults being thrown across the stage between Romero’s trainer Ismael Salas and Lopez’s father and trainer Teofimo Sr. The press conference also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including unbeaten middleweight Yoenli Hernandez and Argentina's Francisco Daniel Veron, who meet in the ten-round co-feature, plus interim WBA super bantamweight titlist Victor Santillan and Gary Antonio Russell, who duel in a twelve-round attraction, and junior welterweighgts Carlos Utria and Israel Mercado, who opens the pay-per-view card with a ten-round matchup at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday:
ROLLY ROMERO
“I know he didn’t want to take this fight, but I’m thankful he took it. It’s gonna be a great show on Saturday night. Don’t miss it.
“I tried to fight everybody else, all the top guys. I wanted a big fight and this is the only guy who stepped up.
“You ever punch someone you loved in the face? If they give me a hundred million dollars I’ll punch my dad in the face right now. The friendship doesn’t matter to me at all when the bell rings.
“They talk about the four kings? They’re four queens and I’m a black knight. I’m gonna show everyone on Saturday night.
“I won the whole fight against Ryan Garcia and I was winning the whole fight against ‘Tank’ Davis too and he hit me with one shot. I wasn’t even supposed to be at that weight anymore. Now I’m at my natural weight and everyone sees what I can do.”
TEOFIMO LOPEZ
“This guy is not in my league. He never was in my league and he never will be.
“Rolly and I go way back. We’ve known each other since the amateurs. We’ve shared a lot of rounds in the ring, and now we’re here 10 years later. He’s the best fighter at 147 and the hardest puncher. I’m the type of guy who goes after those challenges.
“I’m determined, I’m ready and I’m focused on this fight. I know what it takes. He’s a heavy-handed fighter and he’s smart. He’s gotten better throughout the years. Any punch could end this fight, literally.
“Saturday night friendship goes out the window. This is about the dream of being the best in the sport. We’re here to put on a show.
“All the times we sparred, I took it light on you. We’re not gonna do that anymore. I’m gonna put you down. It’s time.
“Right now I’m just focused on climbing the ladder. I’m laser focused. I’m just staying on course and ready to do what I need to do. We’re gonna let our hands do most of the talking.”
YOENLI HERNANDEZ
“I’m not here to prove anything. I don’t need to. I came here to win on August 22.
“I showed in my last fight that no matter who you put in front of me, I’m gonna stream roll them. It doesn’t matter to me.
“I don’t need to showcase anything. I need to get this win and keep moving toward those world title fights.
“I’m not aiming for any specific fighter. All I want are the belts. Whoever has the belts is who I want to face.”
FRANCISCO DANIEL VERON
“I want everyone to know that I’m here to represent Argentina. We have a great legacy to uphold and that’s exactly what I’m gonna do.
“I’m coming into this fight better than I’ve ever been. My preparation has been incredible and I’m gonna show everyone on Saturday.
“His power remains to be seen. We’re gonna see inside the ring. We’re going to try to out box him and see what the fight brings. We’ll be ready to adjust on the fly.”
VICTOR SANTILLAN
“I’m here to prove that Dominican boxing is at its best right now. We’re not gonna stop until we get to the top.
He’s a predictable fighter. If I rely on my preparation and stick to my game plan, I’m gonna come out with my hand raised.
“He really shows his cards whenever you’re on top of him. He doesn’t really know what to do. That’s what I see.”
GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL
“Come Saturday I’m looking to come out victorious and in spectacular fashion. I’m thankful for the opportunity and I’m ready to give everyone a great show.
“I’m real anxious to get this belt. I’m ready to get back in the ring and stay active. It’s all been leading up to this.
“Victor is a good tough opponent. He stays disciplined behind his jab. I see very easily how he can be exposed. We’re just gonna capitalize on our game plan.”
CARLOS UTRIA
“I’m here and ready to represent Colombia. My country has been going through a rough time, but I’m here to show that Colombians are resilient. I’m going to show that resiliency on Saturday night.
“I prepared extremely well. This is the perfect opponent to face on such a big card. We’re gonna see what he brings to the ring. I’ll be ready for everything."
ISRAEL MERCADO
“This is gonna be a great fight on Saturday. I’m very thankful for this opportunity. This is an undefeated opponent, but I’m here to make a statement. I’m gonna expose him on Saturday.
“Every time I face an undefeated fighter, I prevail and come through. This time around, I’m gonna make sure it doesn’t go to the judges hands.
“He’s an explosive fighter, but he’s inexperienced. I believe I’m gonna capitalize on that.”
ISMAEL SALAS, Rolly’s Trainer
“It’s such a pleasure to be here. I’ve always admired Teofimo and his family, but the time has come and it’s time to fight.
“I actually think this fight is going to be like a chess match. Let’s see who can place the pieces in the right position and come out with the win. May the best man win.”
TEOFIMO LOPEZ SR., Lopez’s Father and Trainer
“This fight sells itself. We have two great fighters at 147 pounds. I’m just here to guide my son like always. He’s gonna be a three-time world champion come Saturday. I have no doubt about that.
“You have to tune into this one if you can’t see it live. Rolly comes to fight, but my son is too technical, too smart and too strong for Rolly.”
TOM BROWN, President TGB Promotions
“It’s been a real fun promotion, but now it’s time to put up or shut up. We’ve got two great personalities in Rolly and Teofimo and two guys who are always willing to put it on the line. These guys are both built for this stage.
“You’re gonna want to be in your seats early on Saturday night. There are a number of rising stars who are looking to break out on this undercard.”
BRITTON HARDIN, Head of Boxing, North America, DAZN
“I have a feeling about this one. We have two very dynamic fighters up here on this stage. Teofimo Lopez is powerful, twitchy, strong, fast, and Rolly is a brutal knockout puncher. I don’t think either one of these guys are gonna let friendship get in the way of legacy.
“When you think about friends who fight in this sport, you either get a classic or a sparring match. But these guys’ sparring matches are classics. I’m really excited to see how this unfolds on Saturday night.
“These guys are both talking about legacy. They’re talking about being in the Hall of Fame. They’re talking about undisputed at 147 pounds. They want to join that legacy of great welterweight champions.”
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Teo to Rolly: "All the times we sparred, I took it light on you"
WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez went face-to-face during a tense final press conference on Thursday to preview their world title clash that headlines a pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video this Saturday, August 22nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. During Thursday’s press conference the two longtime friends promised to leave that friendship aside when the fight begins, and had a heated exchange about the details of their shared history. The tensions nearly boiled over between the fighter’s respective teams as well, with insults being thrown across the stage between Romero’s trainer Ismael Salas and Lopez’s father and trainer Teofimo Sr. The press conference also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including unbeaten middleweight Yoenli Hernandez and Argentina's Francisco Daniel Veron, who meet in the ten-round co-feature, plus interim WBA super bantamweight titlist Victor Santillan and Gary Antonio Russell, who duel in a twelve-round attraction, and junior welterweighgts Carlos Utria and Israel Mercado, who opens the pay-per-view card with a ten-round matchup at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Here is what the press conference participants had to say Thursday:
ROLLY ROMERO
“I know he didn’t want to take this fight, but I’m thankful he took it. It’s gonna be a great show on Saturday night. Don’t miss it.
“I tried to fight everybody else, all the top guys. I wanted a big fight and this is the only guy who stepped up.
“You ever punch someone you loved in the face? If they give me a hundred million dollars I’ll punch my dad in the face right now. The friendship doesn’t matter to me at all when the bell rings.
“They talk about the four kings? They’re four queens and I’m a black knight. I’m gonna show everyone on Saturday night.
“I won the whole fight against Ryan Garcia and I was winning the whole fight against ‘Tank’ Davis too and he hit me with one shot. I wasn’t even supposed to be at that weight anymore. Now I’m at my natural weight and everyone sees what I can do.”
TEOFIMO LOPEZ
“This guy is not in my league. He never was in my league and he never will be.
“Rolly and I go way back. We’ve known each other since the amateurs. We’ve shared a lot of rounds in the ring, and now we’re here 10 years later. He’s the best fighter at 147 and the hardest puncher. I’m the type of guy who goes after those challenges.
“I’m determined, I’m ready and I’m focused on this fight. I know what it takes. He’s a heavy-handed fighter and he’s smart. He’s gotten better throughout the years. Any punch could end this fight, literally.
“Saturday night friendship goes out the window. This is about the dream of being the best in the sport. We’re here to put on a show.
“All the times we sparred, I took it light on you. We’re not gonna do that anymore. I’m gonna put you down. It’s time.
“Right now I’m just focused on climbing the ladder. I’m laser focused. I’m just staying on course and ready to do what I need to do. We’re gonna let our hands do most of the talking.”
YOENLI HERNANDEZ
“I’m not here to prove anything. I don’t need to. I came here to win on August 22.
“I showed in my last fight that no matter who you put in front of me, I’m gonna stream roll them. It doesn’t matter to me.
“I don’t need to showcase anything. I need to get this win and keep moving toward those world title fights.
“I’m not aiming for any specific fighter. All I want are the belts. Whoever has the belts is who I want to face.”
FRANCISCO DANIEL VERON
“I want everyone to know that I’m here to represent Argentina. We have a great legacy to uphold and that’s exactly what I’m gonna do.
“I’m coming into this fight better than I’ve ever been. My preparation has been incredible and I’m gonna show everyone on Saturday.
“His power remains to be seen. We’re gonna see inside the ring. We’re going to try to out box him and see what the fight brings. We’ll be ready to adjust on the fly.”
VICTOR SANTILLAN
“I’m here to prove that Dominican boxing is at its best right now. We’re not gonna stop until we get to the top.
He’s a predictable fighter. If I rely on my preparation and stick to my game plan, I’m gonna come out with my hand raised.
“He really shows his cards whenever you’re on top of him. He doesn’t really know what to do. That’s what I see.”
GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL
“Come Saturday I’m looking to come out victorious and in spectacular fashion. I’m thankful for the opportunity and I’m ready to give everyone a great show.
“I’m real anxious to get this belt. I’m ready to get back in the ring and stay active. It’s all been leading up to this.
“Victor is a good tough opponent. He stays disciplined behind his jab. I see very easily how he can be exposed. We’re just gonna capitalize on our game plan.”
CARLOS UTRIA
“I’m here and ready to represent Colombia. My country has been going through a rough time, but I’m here to show that Colombians are resilient. I’m going to show that resiliency on Saturday night.
“I prepared extremely well. This is the perfect opponent to face on such a big card. We’re gonna see what he brings to the ring. I’ll be ready for everything."
ISRAEL MERCADO
“This is gonna be a great fight on Saturday. I’m very thankful for this opportunity. This is an undefeated opponent, but I’m here to make a statement. I’m gonna expose him on Saturday.
“Every time I face an undefeated fighter, I prevail and come through. This time around, I’m gonna make sure it doesn’t go to the judges hands.
“He’s an explosive fighter, but he’s inexperienced. I believe I’m gonna capitalize on that.”
ISMAEL SALAS, Rolly’s Trainer
“It’s such a pleasure to be here. I’ve always admired Teofimo and his family, but the time has come and it’s time to fight.
“I actually think this fight is going to be like a chess match. Let’s see who can place the pieces in the right position and come out with the win. May the best man win.”
TEOFIMO LOPEZ SR., Lopez’s Father and Trainer
“This fight sells itself. We have two great fighters at 147 pounds. I’m just here to guide my son like always. He’s gonna be a three-time world champion come Saturday. I have no doubt about that.
“You have to tune into this one if you can’t see it live. Rolly comes to fight, but my son is too technical, too smart and too strong for Rolly.”
TOM BROWN, President TGB Promotions
“It’s been a real fun promotion, but now it’s time to put up or shut up. We’ve got two great personalities in Rolly and Teofimo and two guys who are always willing to put it on the line. These guys are both built for this stage.
“You’re gonna want to be in your seats early on Saturday night. There are a number of rising stars who are looking to break out on this undercard.”
BRITTON HARDIN, Head of Boxing, North America, DAZN
“I have a feeling about this one. We have two very dynamic fighters up here on this stage. Teofimo Lopez is powerful, twitchy, strong, fast, and Rolly is a brutal knockout puncher. I don’t think either one of these guys are gonna let friendship get in the way of legacy.
“When you think about friends who fight in this sport, you either get a classic or a sparring match. But these guys’ sparring matches are classics. I’m really excited to see how this unfolds on Saturday night.
“These guys are both talking about legacy. They’re talking about being in the Hall of Fame. They’re talking about undisputed at 147 pounds. They want to join that legacy of great welterweight champions.”
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Friday: Bare knuckle action in Connecticut |
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On Friday, BKFC returns to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut for the seventh time with another night of bare knuckle action. Bryce “Baba Yaga” Henry and Carlos Trinidad-Snake will throw hands in Friday’s main event. The fight is set for the 165-pound division. Henry is undefeated in his first seven trips to the BKFC squared circle, and Trinidad-Snake is 7-1, with his only loss coming against former BKFC welterweight champion (and former traditional boxing 154-pound champion) Austin “No Doubt” Trout.
Two of BKFC’s most dangerous light heavyweights collide on the show as Joseph “Dark Knight” Creer (6-3) and Cody Vidal (4-1-1)... Tommy “The Farmer” Strydom (4-2) and Joey “The Raging Warrior” Gambino (1-0) meet in Friday’s featured fight.... BKFC Fight Night Mohegan Sun also features the return of fan-favorite fighters like Alexandra “The Great” Ballou, Brandon Bushaw, Nash “The Ghost” Diederichs, “Nasty” Nate Ghareeb, Sophia Hayes, Michael “Hurricane” Hernandez, Lardy “Sito” Navarro and more, all live worldwide on The BKFC App.
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Friday: Bare knuckle action in Connecticut
On Friday, BKFC returns to the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut for the seventh time with another night of bare knuckle action. Bryce “Baba Yaga” Henry and Carlos Trinidad-Snake will throw hands in Friday’s main event. The fight is set for the 165-pound division. Henry is undefeated in his first seven trips to the BKFC squared circle, and Trinidad-Snake is 7-1, with his only loss coming against former BKFC welterweight champion (and former traditional boxing 154-pound champion) Austin “No Doubt” Trout.
Two of BKFC’s most dangerous light heavyweights collide on the show as Joseph “Dark Knight” Creer (6-3) and Cody Vidal (4-1-1)... Tommy “The Farmer” Strydom (4-2) and Joey “The Raging Warrior” Gambino (1-0) meet in Friday’s featured fight.... BKFC Fight Night Mohegan Sun also features the return of fan-favorite fighters like Alexandra “The Great” Ballou, Brandon Bushaw, Nash “The Ghost” Diederichs, “Nasty” Nate Ghareeb, Sophia Hayes, Michael “Hurricane” Hernandez, Lardy “Sito” Navarro and more, all live worldwide on The BKFC App.
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Reina Tellez training camp report |
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Featherweight Reina Tellez (13-1-1, 5 KOs) is putting the finishing touches on a demanding training camp in Glendale, Arizona, alongside trainer Jr. Lopez, as she prepares for one of the most significant opportunities of her professional career. Tellez will square off against British contender Jessica Barry (10-1, 2 KOs) in a ten-round showdown on Saturday, August 29th in Birmingham, England. The bout is on the MVPW-06 main card, which is headlined by title unification clash at 154 pounds between the USA's unified WBA and WBC champion Mikaela Mayer, and the UK's WBO champion Chantelle Cameron. The event will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom and ESPN+ in the United States.
With weeks of hard work nearly complete, Tellez believes her time in Arizona with Lopez has strengthened her both physically and mentally. Rather than reinventing herself for the biggest stage, the focus throughout camp has been on sharpening the qualities that have carried her to this point while correcting the small details that can make the difference at the elite level. "This has been one of the most focused camps of my career, and I'm extremely grateful to Coach Jr. Lopez for everything he's poured into me," said Tellez. "We've worked on the little things every day, my timing, movement, combinations, conditioning, and staying disciplined from the first round to the last. Coach has pushed me when I've needed to be pushed, but he's also helped me understand the importance of being patient and trusting my abilities. I feel like I've grown during this camp, and I'm excited to put that work on display."
Standing across the ring from Tellez will be Barry, who enters the contest with just one professional defeat and the added motivation of competing on home soil. Tellez understands the challenge that awaits her in Birmingham and has approached her preparation with respect for both her opponent and the magnitude of the occasion. "Jessica Barry is a fighter that I know is coming with her best," Tellez said. "She's going to be fighting at home with the crowd behind her, and I know she's going to be motivated. That's exactly why I've prepared the way I have. I'm not going over there expecting anything to be given to me. I'm going there prepared to earn everything. I believe in myself and my team, but I also understand that I have to prove it when the bell rings."
The UK vs. USA theme adds another dimension to a matchup already carrying major implications in the featherweight division. For Tellez, wearing the American colors on an international stage is a responsibility she embraces with tremendous pride. "To travel to England and represent the United States is something I'm very proud of," Tellez explained. "There are so many great fighters in America who could have been given this opportunity, so I don't take it lightly that I'm one of the fighters chosen to represent our country. I'm going into her backyard, and I know the atmosphere is going to be incredible. I want to represent myself, my team, my family, and the USA with class and give the fans a great fight."
At 13-1-1, Tellez has already established herself as a serious contender, but she recognizes that a victory over Barry on an internationally televised card could propel her career to another level. With the featherweight division offering increasingly significant opportunities for women's boxing, Tellez views August 29th as a chance to demonstrate that she belongs in the conversation for the division's biggest fights.
"A win here would mean a lot to my career because this is the type of fight that can open doors," Tellez said. "My goal is to become a world champion, and I understand that you have to take risks and perform in big moments to get there. I'm thankful to MVP, Boxlab Promotions, my team, and everyone who helped make this opportunity possible. I don't want to look too far ahead because Jessica Barry deserves my full attention. Right now, August 29 is the only thing that matters."
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, believes Tellez's willingness to travel overseas and face a talented opponent in hostile territory speaks to both her confidence and her championship ambitions. "Reina has conducted herself throughout this process with the maturity and professionalism of a true warrior," said Piedra. "Representing the United States on an international platform carries a certain responsibility, and she understands the significance of that distinction. She's entering a talented opponent's home country, before a passionate British audience, and embracing the challenge rather than shying away from it. Those are the moments that reveal a fighter's character, and we have tremendous confidence in Reina's ability to rise to the occasion."
Piedra also expressed his appreciation to Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) for providing Tellez with an opportunity to showcase her abilities before audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. "We're sincerely grateful to MVP for believing in Reina and providing her with this opportunity," Piedra continued. "Women's boxing continues to advance because meaningful opportunities are being created for talented fighters to test themselves against quality opposition on major stages. MVP has demonstrated a genuine commitment to that progression. For Reina to represent the United States on a UK vs. USA card, live on Sky Sports and ESPN+, is an opportunity we deeply appreciate, and one we intend to make the most of."
With training camp coming to a close, the hard work has been done. Tellez will now turn her attention toward Birmingham, where an important test, an international audience, and the opportunity to take another major step toward a world championship await. For Tellez, however, the mission remains simple…stay humble, trust the preparation, and make every round count.
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Reina Tellez training camp report
Featherweight Reina Tellez (13-1-1, 5 KOs) is putting the finishing touches on a demanding training camp in Glendale, Arizona, alongside trainer Jr. Lopez, as she prepares for one of the most significant opportunities of her professional career. Tellez will square off against British contender Jessica Barry (10-1, 2 KOs) in a ten-round showdown on Saturday, August 29th in Birmingham, England. The bout is on the MVPW-06 main card, which is headlined by title unification clash at 154 pounds between the USA's unified WBA and WBC champion Mikaela Mayer, and the UK's WBO champion Chantelle Cameron. The event will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the United Kingdom and ESPN+ in the United States.
With weeks of hard work nearly complete, Tellez believes her time in Arizona with Lopez has strengthened her both physically and mentally. Rather than reinventing herself for the biggest stage, the focus throughout camp has been on sharpening the qualities that have carried her to this point while correcting the small details that can make the difference at the elite level. "This has been one of the most focused camps of my career, and I'm extremely grateful to Coach Jr. Lopez for everything he's poured into me," said Tellez. "We've worked on the little things every day, my timing, movement, combinations, conditioning, and staying disciplined from the first round to the last. Coach has pushed me when I've needed to be pushed, but he's also helped me understand the importance of being patient and trusting my abilities. I feel like I've grown during this camp, and I'm excited to put that work on display."
Standing across the ring from Tellez will be Barry, who enters the contest with just one professional defeat and the added motivation of competing on home soil. Tellez understands the challenge that awaits her in Birmingham and has approached her preparation with respect for both her opponent and the magnitude of the occasion. "Jessica Barry is a fighter that I know is coming with her best," Tellez said. "She's going to be fighting at home with the crowd behind her, and I know she's going to be motivated. That's exactly why I've prepared the way I have. I'm not going over there expecting anything to be given to me. I'm going there prepared to earn everything. I believe in myself and my team, but I also understand that I have to prove it when the bell rings."
The UK vs. USA theme adds another dimension to a matchup already carrying major implications in the featherweight division. For Tellez, wearing the American colors on an international stage is a responsibility she embraces with tremendous pride. "To travel to England and represent the United States is something I'm very proud of," Tellez explained. "There are so many great fighters in America who could have been given this opportunity, so I don't take it lightly that I'm one of the fighters chosen to represent our country. I'm going into her backyard, and I know the atmosphere is going to be incredible. I want to represent myself, my team, my family, and the USA with class and give the fans a great fight."
At 13-1-1, Tellez has already established herself as a serious contender, but she recognizes that a victory over Barry on an internationally televised card could propel her career to another level. With the featherweight division offering increasingly significant opportunities for women's boxing, Tellez views August 29th as a chance to demonstrate that she belongs in the conversation for the division's biggest fights.
"A win here would mean a lot to my career because this is the type of fight that can open doors," Tellez said. "My goal is to become a world champion, and I understand that you have to take risks and perform in big moments to get there. I'm thankful to MVP, Boxlab Promotions, my team, and everyone who helped make this opportunity possible. I don't want to look too far ahead because Jessica Barry deserves my full attention. Right now, August 29 is the only thing that matters."
Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions, believes Tellez's willingness to travel overseas and face a talented opponent in hostile territory speaks to both her confidence and her championship ambitions. "Reina has conducted herself throughout this process with the maturity and professionalism of a true warrior," said Piedra. "Representing the United States on an international platform carries a certain responsibility, and she understands the significance of that distinction. She's entering a talented opponent's home country, before a passionate British audience, and embracing the challenge rather than shying away from it. Those are the moments that reveal a fighter's character, and we have tremendous confidence in Reina's ability to rise to the occasion."
Piedra also expressed his appreciation to Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) for providing Tellez with an opportunity to showcase her abilities before audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. "We're sincerely grateful to MVP for believing in Reina and providing her with this opportunity," Piedra continued. "Women's boxing continues to advance because meaningful opportunities are being created for talented fighters to test themselves against quality opposition on major stages. MVP has demonstrated a genuine commitment to that progression. For Reina to represent the United States on a UK vs. USA card, live on Sky Sports and ESPN+, is an opportunity we deeply appreciate, and one we intend to make the most of."
With training camp coming to a close, the hard work has been done. Tellez will now turn her attention toward Birmingham, where an important test, an international audience, and the opportunity to take another major step toward a world championship await. For Tellez, however, the mission remains simple…stay humble, trust the preparation, and make every round count.
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OPBF Results from Tokyo |
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Takero Kitano W10 Erson Trinidad... Takero Kitano defeated visiting Filipino Erson Trinidad (10-6-1) by unanimous decision to win the OPBF minimumweight title at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan. The judges scored the fight 99-91 and 100-90 (twice). Kitano (11-1-1) controlled the distance behind his right jab and left hand. He led 50-45 (twice) and 49-46 on the midway open scoring cards and maintained his advantage during the second half of the fight to earn the decision.
Ryang Ho Han W10 Kyotaro Yoshida... On the same show, South Korea's Ryang Ho Han (6-1) defeated Kyotaro Yoshida (8-5) by majority decision to win the OPBF super flyweight title. The judges scored the fight 96-94, (twice) and 95-95. Han applied pressure and worked the body with combinations from the opening rounds. Yoshida rallied during the closing rounds, but Han's work over the course of the fight was enough to earn the majority decision.
Keita Nakayama TKO5 Hijiri Oka... Keita Nakayama (5-0, 5 KOs) stopped Hijiri Oka at 1:58 of round five to win the vacant OPBF bantamweight title. Nakayama attacked the body and landed combinations during the opening rounds. In the fifth, he hurt Oka (3-1) with a right uppercut and followed with a series of unanswered punches against the ropes, prompting referee Katsuhiko Nakamura to stop the fight.
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OPBF Results from Tokyo
Takero Kitano W10 Erson Trinidad... Takero Kitano defeated visiting Filipino Erson Trinidad (10-6-1) by unanimous decision to win the OPBF minimumweight title at Korakuen Hall in Tokyo, Japan. The judges scored the fight 99-91 and 100-90 (twice). Kitano (11-1-1) controlled the distance behind his right jab and left hand. He led 50-45 (twice) and 49-46 on the midway open scoring cards and maintained his advantage during the second half of the fight to earn the decision.
Ryang Ho Han W10 Kyotaro Yoshida... On the same show, South Korea's Ryang Ho Han (6-1) defeated Kyotaro Yoshida (8-5) by majority decision to win the OPBF super flyweight title. The judges scored the fight 96-94, (twice) and 95-95. Han applied pressure and worked the body with combinations from the opening rounds. Yoshida rallied during the closing rounds, but Han's work over the course of the fight was enough to earn the majority decision.
Keita Nakayama TKO5 Hijiri Oka... Keita Nakayama (5-0, 5 KOs) stopped Hijiri Oka at 1:58 of round five to win the vacant OPBF bantamweight title. Nakayama attacked the body and landed combinations during the opening rounds. In the fifth, he hurt Oka (3-1) with a right uppercut and followed with a series of unanswered punches against the ropes, prompting referee Katsuhiko Nakamura to stop the fight.
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"You don’t want to miss the Rolly Romero show" |
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WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez held a media workout ahead of their world title clash that headlines a PBC pay-per-view event this Saturday, August 22nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Romero and Lopez will both enter the ring in the prime of their career, with Romero looking to add a second signature victory to his ledger after beating Ryan Garcia in 2025, while Lopez can become a three-division champion by wresting the title away. Wednesday’s workout also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including unbeaten middleweight Yoenli Hernandez and Argentina's Francisco Daniel Veron, who meet in a ten rounder, plus Interim WBA 122-pound titlsit Victor Santillan and Gary Antonio Russell, who duel in a twelve-round attraction, and junior welterweight Israel Mercado, who opens the pay-per-view card at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. facing Carlos Utria. Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:
ROLLY ROMERO
“I’ve been out of the ring for a minute, but I’m happy to be back on Saturday night. You don’t want to miss the Rolly show. This is the moment for me to make my legacy.
“We’re two completely different fighters than when we sparred together. You’re gonna see what we’re capable of now when that bell rings.
“I’m the one who tries to make all the big fights. Nobody wanted to fight me, for whatever reason. I think everyone knows the real reason. I’m finally at my natural weight.
“I’ve grown up. I’m 30-years-old now. I got some clout and made some money when I was young. Now I’ve changed. I became a better man.
“I was doing Teofimo a favor when we sparred, I was getting him ready for his pro debut. I didn’t even have a fight. But none of that matters now. We’re gonna see on August 22nd.”
TEOFIMO LOPEZ
“We’re here to make great fights. We want to fight the best of the best and give everyone a great show.
“I just want to put on a good show and entertain all the fans. That’s what they deserve. I want to inspire the next generation.
“This is Teofimo Lopez coming back. I’m ready for this fight. It’s put up or shut up at this point.
They wanna see if I still have it. I’m ready to do whatever it takes.
“This is my road to undisputed at welterweight. It starts August 22. I see myself with my hand raised. Nothing but victory.”
YOENLI HERNANDEZ
“This is the time to put up or shut up. If he doesn’t wanna stand on what he’s said about my style, he’ll have to pay in the ring.
“I’m super motivated for this fight. It’s one thing to call the devil, but it’s another thing when he arrives.
“I fear nothing and I’m ready to go after everything. I respect everyone, but I know what I’m capable of.
“You’re not only gonna see what I’m made of, but I’m gonna humble Veron. He’s been talking trash and now he’s gonna see what happens.”
FRANCISCO DANIEL VERON
“I’m glad to have this opportunity. I’m going to give the best of myself and represent Argentina with pride. You can expect to see me at my best
“His reach and height will not affect me. He’s a little bulkier than me, but it can work against him. I feel that I might be able to use speed to my advantage.
“Everyone is gonna see what I bring. I have a lot of courage. Argentinian boxers are among the best in the world and I’m coming to prove it.”
VICTOR SANTILLAN
“This is so exciting for me. This is a huge motivation to see everyone here with all the love they’re giving me. I’m ready to show my best for everyone.
“I’m so ready for this opportunity. I love to face the best and that’s what I’m doing on Saturday. I’m coming to steal the show.”
GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL
“The game plan is to execute our game plan and come out victorious with my hand raised. Whatever it takes.
“I treat every fight as a championship match. I’m coming to put my best foot forward and show everyone what I’m capable of doing.
“My family knows to stay mentally tough and keep grinding and stay resilient through it all. I’m ready to come out victorious. I expect nothing short of a spectacular performance.”
ISRAEL MERCADO
“I have this opportunity and I’m gonna take advantage of it. I’m the most slept on fighter in the game and I’m gonna show everyone why on Saturday.
“This is gonna be a very entertaining fight. I’m here to put on a show. I’m here for a reason and I’m gonna go home with a W.”
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"You don’t want to miss the Rolly Romero show"
WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez held a media workout ahead of their world title clash that headlines a PBC pay-per-view event this Saturday, August 22nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Romero and Lopez will both enter the ring in the prime of their career, with Romero looking to add a second signature victory to his ledger after beating Ryan Garcia in 2025, while Lopez can become a three-division champion by wresting the title away. Wednesday’s workout also featured fighters competing on the pay-per-view undercard, including unbeaten middleweight Yoenli Hernandez and Argentina's Francisco Daniel Veron, who meet in a ten rounder, plus Interim WBA 122-pound titlsit Victor Santillan and Gary Antonio Russell, who duel in a twelve-round attraction, and junior welterweight Israel Mercado, who opens the pay-per-view card at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. facing Carlos Utria. Here is what the fighters had to say Wednesday from MGM Grand:
ROLLY ROMERO
“I’ve been out of the ring for a minute, but I’m happy to be back on Saturday night. You don’t want to miss the Rolly show. This is the moment for me to make my legacy.
“We’re two completely different fighters than when we sparred together. You’re gonna see what we’re capable of now when that bell rings.
“I’m the one who tries to make all the big fights. Nobody wanted to fight me, for whatever reason. I think everyone knows the real reason. I’m finally at my natural weight.
“I’ve grown up. I’m 30-years-old now. I got some clout and made some money when I was young. Now I’ve changed. I became a better man.
“I was doing Teofimo a favor when we sparred, I was getting him ready for his pro debut. I didn’t even have a fight. But none of that matters now. We’re gonna see on August 22nd.”
TEOFIMO LOPEZ
“We’re here to make great fights. We want to fight the best of the best and give everyone a great show.
“I just want to put on a good show and entertain all the fans. That’s what they deserve. I want to inspire the next generation.
“This is Teofimo Lopez coming back. I’m ready for this fight. It’s put up or shut up at this point.
They wanna see if I still have it. I’m ready to do whatever it takes.
“This is my road to undisputed at welterweight. It starts August 22. I see myself with my hand raised. Nothing but victory.”
YOENLI HERNANDEZ
“This is the time to put up or shut up. If he doesn’t wanna stand on what he’s said about my style, he’ll have to pay in the ring.
“I’m super motivated for this fight. It’s one thing to call the devil, but it’s another thing when he arrives.
“I fear nothing and I’m ready to go after everything. I respect everyone, but I know what I’m capable of.
“You’re not only gonna see what I’m made of, but I’m gonna humble Veron. He’s been talking trash and now he’s gonna see what happens.”
FRANCISCO DANIEL VERON
“I’m glad to have this opportunity. I’m going to give the best of myself and represent Argentina with pride. You can expect to see me at my best
“His reach and height will not affect me. He’s a little bulkier than me, but it can work against him. I feel that I might be able to use speed to my advantage.
“Everyone is gonna see what I bring. I have a lot of courage. Argentinian boxers are among the best in the world and I’m coming to prove it.”
VICTOR SANTILLAN
“This is so exciting for me. This is a huge motivation to see everyone here with all the love they’re giving me. I’m ready to show my best for everyone.
“I’m so ready for this opportunity. I love to face the best and that’s what I’m doing on Saturday. I’m coming to steal the show.”
GARY ANTONIO RUSSELL
“The game plan is to execute our game plan and come out victorious with my hand raised. Whatever it takes.
“I treat every fight as a championship match. I’m coming to put my best foot forward and show everyone what I’m capable of doing.
“My family knows to stay mentally tough and keep grinding and stay resilient through it all. I’m ready to come out victorious. I expect nothing short of a spectacular performance.”
ISRAEL MERCADO
“I have this opportunity and I’m gonna take advantage of it. I’m the most slept on fighter in the game and I’m gonna show everyone why on Saturday.
“This is gonna be a very entertaining fight. I’m here to put on a show. I’m here for a reason and I’m gonna go home with a W.”
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Marco Romero making PBC debut this weekend |
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Marco “El Tiburón (The Shark)” Romero (14-0, 12 KOs) will make his PBC debut this Saturday night fighting for the first time as a prizefighter in Las Vegas. His eight-round fight against Kahlil Mitchell (6-1, 4 KOs), to be contested at a 165-pound catchweight, will be the third and final fight of the preliminary card on Prime Video, live from T-Mobile Arena, preceding the main card headlined by the WBA welterweight championship match between defending champion Rolly Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) against former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs). “It’s hard for me to put into words how I feel,” Romero admitted. “I’m super excited to be fighting in Las Vegas in my PBC debut. It couldn’t have worked out any better for me. I’ve dreamed of fighting in Las Vegas. Rolly and Teo are two of my favorite fighters. I picked Lomo (Vasyl Lomachenko) to beat Teo, but after that fight I started following Teo. I’ve followed Rolly for a while and it’s crazy we have the same last name.”
The 20 year-old Romero, fighting out of Olathe, Kansas, is not only undefeated, he has won all 35 rounds on the judges’ scorecards. A 23-time U.S. national Champion, Romero had a rich amateur pedigree, backed by his remarkable 130-5 record. The handsome Mexican American boxer hasn’t lost in more than 7 years since June 28, 2019.
Romero credits Team Tiburón for his success: “I need to throw flowers to my team because I couldn’t do it without them.” In no particular order, he thanked (manager/head trainer) John Brown, father/trainer Salvador Romero, trainers Silvio Flores, and Marcus Davidson, advisor Al Valenti, lawyer John Hornwerner, matchmaker Eric Botjer, strength-and-conditioning trainers Chris Calovich and Tom Virgets, and Marco’s mother, Sendy Romero.
“This will be the first fight in which Marco makes a real payday because now we’re with a viable promoter,” Brown explained. “His first fight in Las Vegas is exciting for us and we’re looking forward to his first fight with PBC. Marco is still a boy – 20 -- and we’re getting him ready by building his man strength. It’s coming!
“The key for Marco is not getting hit in the head, a weakness for all fighters, so we’re working on head movement and blocking punches. Marco has a big motor - cardiovascular system – like when I first saw Oscar de la Hoya training as an amateur. He ran like a deer. Marco has also had good sparring since he signed with PBC, something we didn’t always have.”
Brown isn’t concerned that Marco will be overly pumped for his first fight in Las Vegas and all the noise, because he is poised beyond his age and has been for years. “That’s a product of his experience from being in so many amateur fights,” Brown noted. “He’s been able to control his emotions before he turned pro. He’s very good at that.”
The next chapter of Marco Romero’s boxing career starts Saturday.
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Marco Romero making PBC debut this weekend
Marco “El Tiburón (The Shark)” Romero (14-0, 12 KOs) will make his PBC debut this Saturday night fighting for the first time as a prizefighter in Las Vegas. His eight-round fight against Kahlil Mitchell (6-1, 4 KOs), to be contested at a 165-pound catchweight, will be the third and final fight of the preliminary card on Prime Video, live from T-Mobile Arena, preceding the main card headlined by the WBA welterweight championship match between defending champion Rolly Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) against former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs). “It’s hard for me to put into words how I feel,” Romero admitted. “I’m super excited to be fighting in Las Vegas in my PBC debut. It couldn’t have worked out any better for me. I’ve dreamed of fighting in Las Vegas. Rolly and Teo are two of my favorite fighters. I picked Lomo (Vasyl Lomachenko) to beat Teo, but after that fight I started following Teo. I’ve followed Rolly for a while and it’s crazy we have the same last name.”
The 20 year-old Romero, fighting out of Olathe, Kansas, is not only undefeated, he has won all 35 rounds on the judges’ scorecards. A 23-time U.S. national Champion, Romero had a rich amateur pedigree, backed by his remarkable 130-5 record. The handsome Mexican American boxer hasn’t lost in more than 7 years since June 28, 2019.
Romero credits Team Tiburón for his success: “I need to throw flowers to my team because I couldn’t do it without them.” In no particular order, he thanked (manager/head trainer) John Brown, father/trainer Salvador Romero, trainers Silvio Flores, and Marcus Davidson, advisor Al Valenti, lawyer John Hornwerner, matchmaker Eric Botjer, strength-and-conditioning trainers Chris Calovich and Tom Virgets, and Marco’s mother, Sendy Romero.
“This will be the first fight in which Marco makes a real payday because now we’re with a viable promoter,” Brown explained. “His first fight in Las Vegas is exciting for us and we’re looking forward to his first fight with PBC. Marco is still a boy – 20 -- and we’re getting him ready by building his man strength. It’s coming!
“The key for Marco is not getting hit in the head, a weakness for all fighters, so we’re working on head movement and blocking punches. Marco has a big motor - cardiovascular system – like when I first saw Oscar de la Hoya training as an amateur. He ran like a deer. Marco has also had good sparring since he signed with PBC, something we didn’t always have.”
Brown isn’t concerned that Marco will be overly pumped for his first fight in Las Vegas and all the noise, because he is poised beyond his age and has been for years. “That’s a product of his experience from being in so many amateur fights,” Brown noted. “He’s been able to control his emotions before he turned pro. He’s very good at that.”
The next chapter of Marco Romero’s boxing career starts Saturday.
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Introducing Melanie "Pitbull" Costa |
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Whether she is patrolling the streets of Norton or stalking an opponent inside the ring, Melanie "Pitbull" Costa (3-1, 1 KO) has never been one to back down from a challenge. On Saturday, August 29th, the five-time national amateur champion returns to action for the first time in 18 months to face Brittany Dukes (3-9-2) in a four-round bantamweight showdown on Boston Harbor Fight Night 2, a ten-bout card presented by CES Boxing in association with Granite Chin Promotions. The action takes place at Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, Massachusetts.
2025 was a difficult year for the Norton native. In February, Costa suffered the first loss of her professional career. A few months later, her father became ill, prompting Melanie to take time away from the sport. "Family always comes first, and my father was diagnosed with stomach cancer," revealed Costa. "I kept training in the gym, but I put boxing on the back burner. I wasn’t in fighting shape."
With her father's cancer now in remission, Costa is ready to resume the pursuit of her lifelong dream: becoming a world champion. She began boxing at just 12 years old after deciding karate wasn’t intense enough for her. By 13, she was competing in amateur bouts, beginning a journey that eventually developed her into one of the most accomplished female amateur boxers in New England.
Costa became a multiple-time National Golden Gloves champion and competed at the U.S. Olympic Trials during two different Olympic cycles. She reached the final eight of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials at 112 pounds, where she shared the ring with Olympic bronze medalist and future professional world champion Marlen Esparza. Costa made another run at the Olympics at 125 pounds before eventually turning professional in 2023.
Her accomplishments extend beyond the ring. In April 2025, Costa was honored by the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in Las Vegas as one of the Women Cops Who Box. The event was part of the hall of fame induction weekend festivities, recognizing women who have balanced careers in law enforcement with their pursuit of excellence in boxing.
It is a balancing act Costa knows well. "Whether it’s in the ring or on the job, you have to be ready for anything," said Costa of the similarities between her two professions. "Boxing taught me to push myself through any circumstance, and that mindset followed me into policing. Just like you never know who you’re getting in the ring with, you have to be prepared for anything that can happen as an officer."
While both jobs are physically demanding, it is the mental fortitude that each require that allow Melanie to persevere through difficult times. "In both, you have to be determined to succeed," said Costa. "Just like I want to become a world champion, I want to do the best I can to protect my community. Not every day is going to be easy, but it takes a positive mindset and lots of drive and motivation to push through those tough days."
That mentality will be on display August 29th, when Melanie returns to the ring for the first time since dropping a four-round split decision to the undefeated Shannel Butler. "Mentally, I wasn’t there," reflects Costa of the fight. "I didn’t fight my fight and I let my opponent fight her fight. I took the loss hard, but I thought about what I had to do, got back in the gym, and improved physically and mentally."
Anyone who has watched ‘Pitbull’ fight knows exactly what Costa means by fighting her fight. As her nickname suggests, the 5-foot Costa is naturally an inside fighter. She comes forward behind a high guard, attacks the body, applies constant pressure and looks to turn every bout into the kind of close quarters battle she has enjoyed since she first walked into a boxing gym as a 12-year-old.
"I’m an action-packed fighter," agreed Costa. "I’m aggressive and I keep coming forward. I apply pressure, and I stay on my opponent."
That entertaining style has allowed Melanie to develop a loyal following that has supported her throughout her career. "My crowd goes where I fight," said Costa. "Fighting at Encore will bring more of them out because it’s closer to home. I’m so happy to receive the support of my family, friends and fans."
Most importantly, one person who has been there since the beginning will be beside her every step of the way. "My father will be walking me out to the ring with my coaches, and he will be in my corner for the fight," said Costa. "That gives me all the motivation I need."
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Introducing Melanie "Pitbull" Costa
Whether she is patrolling the streets of Norton or stalking an opponent inside the ring, Melanie "Pitbull" Costa (3-1, 1 KO) has never been one to back down from a challenge. On Saturday, August 29th, the five-time national amateur champion returns to action for the first time in 18 months to face Brittany Dukes (3-9-2) in a four-round bantamweight showdown on Boston Harbor Fight Night 2, a ten-bout card presented by CES Boxing in association with Granite Chin Promotions. The action takes place at Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, Massachusetts.
2025 was a difficult year for the Norton native. In February, Costa suffered the first loss of her professional career. A few months later, her father became ill, prompting Melanie to take time away from the sport. "Family always comes first, and my father was diagnosed with stomach cancer," revealed Costa. "I kept training in the gym, but I put boxing on the back burner. I wasn’t in fighting shape."
With her father's cancer now in remission, Costa is ready to resume the pursuit of her lifelong dream: becoming a world champion. She began boxing at just 12 years old after deciding karate wasn’t intense enough for her. By 13, she was competing in amateur bouts, beginning a journey that eventually developed her into one of the most accomplished female amateur boxers in New England.
Costa became a multiple-time National Golden Gloves champion and competed at the U.S. Olympic Trials during two different Olympic cycles. She reached the final eight of the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials at 112 pounds, where she shared the ring with Olympic bronze medalist and future professional world champion Marlen Esparza. Costa made another run at the Olympics at 125 pounds before eventually turning professional in 2023.
Her accomplishments extend beyond the ring. In April 2025, Costa was honored by the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in Las Vegas as one of the Women Cops Who Box. The event was part of the hall of fame induction weekend festivities, recognizing women who have balanced careers in law enforcement with their pursuit of excellence in boxing.
It is a balancing act Costa knows well. "Whether it’s in the ring or on the job, you have to be ready for anything," said Costa of the similarities between her two professions. "Boxing taught me to push myself through any circumstance, and that mindset followed me into policing. Just like you never know who you’re getting in the ring with, you have to be prepared for anything that can happen as an officer."
While both jobs are physically demanding, it is the mental fortitude that each require that allow Melanie to persevere through difficult times. "In both, you have to be determined to succeed," said Costa. "Just like I want to become a world champion, I want to do the best I can to protect my community. Not every day is going to be easy, but it takes a positive mindset and lots of drive and motivation to push through those tough days."
That mentality will be on display August 29th, when Melanie returns to the ring for the first time since dropping a four-round split decision to the undefeated Shannel Butler. "Mentally, I wasn’t there," reflects Costa of the fight. "I didn’t fight my fight and I let my opponent fight her fight. I took the loss hard, but I thought about what I had to do, got back in the gym, and improved physically and mentally."
Anyone who has watched ‘Pitbull’ fight knows exactly what Costa means by fighting her fight. As her nickname suggests, the 5-foot Costa is naturally an inside fighter. She comes forward behind a high guard, attacks the body, applies constant pressure and looks to turn every bout into the kind of close quarters battle she has enjoyed since she first walked into a boxing gym as a 12-year-old.
"I’m an action-packed fighter," agreed Costa. "I’m aggressive and I keep coming forward. I apply pressure, and I stay on my opponent."
That entertaining style has allowed Melanie to develop a loyal following that has supported her throughout her career. "My crowd goes where I fight," said Costa. "Fighting at Encore will bring more of them out because it’s closer to home. I’m so happy to receive the support of my family, friends and fans."
Most importantly, one person who has been there since the beginning will be beside her every step of the way. "My father will be walking me out to the ring with my coaches, and he will be in my corner for the fight," said Costa. "That gives me all the motivation I need."
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Wladimir Klitschko statement |
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Former heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko issued the following statement regarding the sudden death of his ex-fiance, the noted actress Hayden Panettiere: "Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief. The announcement of Hayden’s tragic death saddens me deeply. She left this world far too soon. Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya. She built an incredible career through immense talent, while also facing the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives. To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was. I extend my deepest condolences to Hayden’s parents, her friends, and her fans, who are also grieving today. Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.
I ask everyone to please respect our family’s feelings and privacy during this incredibly difficult time. For now, this is all I wish to say. Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences. Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace. #WeLoveYouHayden.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
AUG. 17, 2026: Hayden Panettiere, the ex-fiancé of former heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, has died at the age of 36. She was a successful actress in her own right. Panettiere's father, Skip, announced the actor's death in a statement provided to ABC News Sunday. No cause of death was announced, but it was well documented that Panettiere struggled with alcohol and depression. She and Klitschko had a daughter together in 2014, with Panettiere eventually choosing to give full custody of her daughter to Klitschko. Boxingtalk sends its condolences to the friends and family of Hayden Panettiere.
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Wladimir Klitschko statement
Former heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko issued the following statement regarding the sudden death of his ex-fiance, the noted actress Hayden Panettiere: "Our family is going through a time of profound shock and grief. The announcement of Hayden’s tragic death saddens me deeply. She left this world far too soon. Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya. She built an incredible career through immense talent, while also facing the darker sides of a very demanding industry. Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives. To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was. I extend my deepest condolences to Hayden’s parents, her friends, and her fans, who are also grieving today. Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.
I ask everyone to please respect our family’s feelings and privacy during this incredibly difficult time. For now, this is all I wish to say. Thank you to everyone who is supporting my family and expressing their sincere condolences. Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace. #WeLoveYouHayden.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
AUG. 17, 2026: Hayden Panettiere, the ex-fiancé of former heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, has died at the age of 36. She was a successful actress in her own right. Panettiere's father, Skip, announced the actor's death in a statement provided to ABC News Sunday. No cause of death was announced, but it was well documented that Panettiere struggled with alcohol and depression. She and Klitschko had a daughter together in 2014, with Panettiere eventually choosing to give full custody of her daughter to Klitschko. Boxingtalk sends its condolences to the friends and family of Hayden Panettiere.
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Liddard and Morello discuss European title clash |
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A confident George Liddard told Dario Morello that he should enjoy the feeling of holding the European middleweight title whilst it last as the pair came face-to-face for the first time today at Matchroom Boxing HQ. Their clash will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN this Saturday but will now be staged at London’s Copper Box Arena. It is a stone’s throw from Liddard’s beloved West Ham United Football Club and the Billericay Bomber is ready to serve up success for his East End faihful this weekend. As the two rivals stood toe-to-toe this afternoon, both had a hand on the vacant belt – but undefeated Liddard told the experienced Italian to savour the moment, insisting it is the closest he come to getting near it come fight night.
British champion Liddard (14-0, 8 KOs) said: “For me, this challenge is the same as it has always been for me: it is another step towards greatness. I have stepped up every single fight throughout my career. I have never shied away from anything or anyone. As soon as the European title was on the line, I have been calling for a big fight – and after the belt was vacated, Dario Morello is the man who steps inside the ring with me. And he’ll be the man who will get battered on Saturday night.”
Morello, meanwhile, believes he will upset Liddard on his home turf. He said: “I dream about this day and this title and the chance to fight for it. It means everything to me. It is now or never for me. I have to win and leave everything in the ring. Every single sacrifice of my life was for this moment. Liddard is a solid man. Has good fundamentals and his physically strong. I understand him. On August 22nd, I will show you this.
Liddard has relinquished his Commonwealth strap, meaning stablemate Jimmy Sains (12-0, 4 KOs) will battle Newark’s Tom Cowling (15-1, 4 KOs) – who stunned Aaron Bowen in a thriller last November in Birmingham – for the honors this Saturday. Sains has sacrificed his English title in the process, meaning teenager – and East End native – Leli Buttigieg (12-0, 4 KOs) will square off against Harwich fighter PA Gordon (9-0, 1 KO) for the belt in a battle of undefeateds.
Tiah Mai Ayton (6-0, 5 KOs) bids for her first big championship when she collides with Ellie Hellewell (8-1-1, 1 KO) for the vacant Commonwealth featherweight title.
Plus, in more supporting action on August 22nd, Team GB Olympic silver medallist Pat McCormack (8-1, 6 KOs) returns to action against Argentina's Brian Maximiliano looking to resurrect his rise up the rankings following his defeat by Conah Walker in Monte-Carlo last December... Connor Mitchell, Ioan Croft, Harley Burrows and Louie Ward will also see action on the card.
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Liddard and Morello discuss European title clash
A confident George Liddard told Dario Morello that he should enjoy the feeling of holding the European middleweight title whilst it last as the pair came face-to-face for the first time today at Matchroom Boxing HQ. Their clash will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN this Saturday but will now be staged at London’s Copper Box Arena. It is a stone’s throw from Liddard’s beloved West Ham United Football Club and the Billericay Bomber is ready to serve up success for his East End faihful this weekend. As the two rivals stood toe-to-toe this afternoon, both had a hand on the vacant belt – but undefeated Liddard told the experienced Italian to savour the moment, insisting it is the closest he come to getting near it come fight night.
British champion Liddard (14-0, 8 KOs) said: “For me, this challenge is the same as it has always been for me: it is another step towards greatness. I have stepped up every single fight throughout my career. I have never shied away from anything or anyone. As soon as the European title was on the line, I have been calling for a big fight – and after the belt was vacated, Dario Morello is the man who steps inside the ring with me. And he’ll be the man who will get battered on Saturday night.”
Morello, meanwhile, believes he will upset Liddard on his home turf. He said: “I dream about this day and this title and the chance to fight for it. It means everything to me. It is now or never for me. I have to win and leave everything in the ring. Every single sacrifice of my life was for this moment. Liddard is a solid man. Has good fundamentals and his physically strong. I understand him. On August 22nd, I will show you this.
Liddard has relinquished his Commonwealth strap, meaning stablemate Jimmy Sains (12-0, 4 KOs) will battle Newark’s Tom Cowling (15-1, 4 KOs) – who stunned Aaron Bowen in a thriller last November in Birmingham – for the honors this Saturday. Sains has sacrificed his English title in the process, meaning teenager – and East End native – Leli Buttigieg (12-0, 4 KOs) will square off against Harwich fighter PA Gordon (9-0, 1 KO) for the belt in a battle of undefeateds.
Tiah Mai Ayton (6-0, 5 KOs) bids for her first big championship when she collides with Ellie Hellewell (8-1-1, 1 KO) for the vacant Commonwealth featherweight title.
Plus, in more supporting action on August 22nd, Team GB Olympic silver medallist Pat McCormack (8-1, 6 KOs) returns to action against Argentina's Brian Maximiliano looking to resurrect his rise up the rankings following his defeat by Conah Walker in Monte-Carlo last December... Connor Mitchell, Ioan Croft, Harley Burrows and Louie Ward will also see action on the card.
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PBC adds three-bout free-stream to Saturday's PPV action |
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Undefeated middleweight Marco Romero will enter the ring in an eight-round showdown against the once-beaten Kahlil Mitchell headlining a three-fight PBC Prelims presentation streaming live on DAZN and Prime Video on Saturday, August 22nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The streaming presentation begins at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT and will also feature junior middleweight Joseph Brown kicking off prelims action in a four or six-round bout against Alton Wiggins, plus junior welterweight Aldo Blancas battles Ricky Mamone in a four-round matchup. Prelims will lead into a four-fight PBC pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and headlined by WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero making the first defense of his world title against former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
A native of Overland Park, Kansas, Romero (14-0, 12 KOs) had a stellar amateur career that included 23-national titles, most notably winning the 2024 National Golden Gloves title where he was named Outstanding Boxer of the Tournament. The 20-year-old turned pro in 2024 and has shown a propensity for ending fights early, with 11 of his 12 KO’s coming within three rounds. Trained by top trainer John Brown, Romero added three victories against increasingly stiff competition in 2026. “I’m super excited to be fighting in Las Vegas, especially on this great PBC card at T-Mobile Arena,” said Romero. “It’s all a little surreal; I pinch myself every morning when I get up. For any fighter, we dream of fighting in Las Vegas. I fought in Las Vegas once as amateur, but this will be my first pro fight here and I can’t wait to get in the ring.”
The 30-year-old Mitchell (6-1, 4 KOs) enters the ring having bounced back from defeat to score knockout victories in back-to-back contests. A native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Mitchell rode a four-fight winning streak into his only career defeat, which came via a narrow majority decision against Jamar Pemberton in December 2024. “This is a great opportunity for me on August 22,” said Mitchell. “I’m ready to go in there, be at my best, and show Romero something he hasn’t seen before.”
The 19-year-old Brown (7-0, 5 KOs) turned pro in 2023, dominating his early competition. Born in Vero Beach, Florida, Brown’s family moved to Canada shortly after, where his father Martin trained him in multiple combat sports before embarking on an accolade-filled amateur boxing career. His most recent action came in February as he stopped Claudio Adan Gamboa in round one. He will be opposed by the 30-year-old Wiggins (3-2-1), a native of Oakland, California who went 2-1 in 2025 before losing a decision to unbeaten Javier Guerrero Cruz in June.
The younger brother of super middleweight Daniel Blancas, Aldo Blancas (2-0, 2 KOs) has made a successful transition to his pro career in 2026, scoring a pair of quick knockouts in March and May. The 19-year-old Milwaukee-native trains alongside his brother as part of David Benavidez’s camp and will return to fight in Las Vegas for the second time after making his pro debut on the Fundora vs. Thurman card in March. He will be opposed by Hawaii’s Mamone (0-0-1), who made his pro debut in March, fighting the unbeaten Dillan Nguyen to a split-draw. The 22-year-old will bring both professional and extensive amateur MMA experience to the ring against Blancas.
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PBC adds three-bout free-stream to Saturday's PPV action
Undefeated middleweight Marco Romero will enter the ring in an eight-round showdown against the once-beaten Kahlil Mitchell headlining a three-fight PBC Prelims presentation streaming live on DAZN and Prime Video on Saturday, August 22nd from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The streaming presentation begins at 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT and will also feature junior middleweight Joseph Brown kicking off prelims action in a four or six-round bout against Alton Wiggins, plus junior welterweight Aldo Blancas battles Ricky Mamone in a four-round matchup. Prelims will lead into a four-fight PBC pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT and headlined by WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero making the first defense of his world title against former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez. Tickets for the live event are on sale now through AXS.com.
A native of Overland Park, Kansas, Romero (14-0, 12 KOs) had a stellar amateur career that included 23-national titles, most notably winning the 2024 National Golden Gloves title where he was named Outstanding Boxer of the Tournament. The 20-year-old turned pro in 2024 and has shown a propensity for ending fights early, with 11 of his 12 KO’s coming within three rounds. Trained by top trainer John Brown, Romero added three victories against increasingly stiff competition in 2026. “I’m super excited to be fighting in Las Vegas, especially on this great PBC card at T-Mobile Arena,” said Romero. “It’s all a little surreal; I pinch myself every morning when I get up. For any fighter, we dream of fighting in Las Vegas. I fought in Las Vegas once as amateur, but this will be my first pro fight here and I can’t wait to get in the ring.”
The 30-year-old Mitchell (6-1, 4 KOs) enters the ring having bounced back from defeat to score knockout victories in back-to-back contests. A native of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Mitchell rode a four-fight winning streak into his only career defeat, which came via a narrow majority decision against Jamar Pemberton in December 2024. “This is a great opportunity for me on August 22,” said Mitchell. “I’m ready to go in there, be at my best, and show Romero something he hasn’t seen before.”
The 19-year-old Brown (7-0, 5 KOs) turned pro in 2023, dominating his early competition. Born in Vero Beach, Florida, Brown’s family moved to Canada shortly after, where his father Martin trained him in multiple combat sports before embarking on an accolade-filled amateur boxing career. His most recent action came in February as he stopped Claudio Adan Gamboa in round one. He will be opposed by the 30-year-old Wiggins (3-2-1), a native of Oakland, California who went 2-1 in 2025 before losing a decision to unbeaten Javier Guerrero Cruz in June.
The younger brother of super middleweight Daniel Blancas, Aldo Blancas (2-0, 2 KOs) has made a successful transition to his pro career in 2026, scoring a pair of quick knockouts in March and May. The 19-year-old Milwaukee-native trains alongside his brother as part of David Benavidez’s camp and will return to fight in Las Vegas for the second time after making his pro debut on the Fundora vs. Thurman card in March. He will be opposed by Hawaii’s Mamone (0-0-1), who made his pro debut in March, fighting the unbeaten Dillan Nguyen to a split-draw. The 22-year-old will bring both professional and extensive amateur MMA experience to the ring against Blancas.
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A few words with middleweight Frank Hogan |
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Francis "Frank the Tank" Hogan (22-0, 17 KOs) will face Ricardo Villalba (20-12-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight bout on Saturday, August 29th, at Encore Boston Harbor. The bout headlines Boston Harbor Fight Night 2, the second collaboration between CES Boxing and Granite Chin Promotions at the venue. Hogan previously fought at Encore Boston Harbor in November 2025, defeating Antonio Todd by decision over eight rounds. "The strategy was to keep hitting the hole on him," explained Hogan of his performance. "He was a flat-footed fighter who liked to come forward. Every time he attacked, I would pivot around him, hit the hole and land shots. Once I realized he didn’t have much power, I started breaking him down and by the last few rounds I was walking him down."
Hogan returned in March against Ghana's Patrick Allotey. Hogan dropped Allotey in the fourth round before Allotey was disqualified in the fifth for intentionally kneeing Hogan in the head. "He punched hard and went more rounds than I thought he would, but I wish he would have been a bit more classy with the way things ended," reflected Hogan. "I was breaking him down and I know that I would have gotten him out of there one way or another."
Villalba has competed internationally, including a 2021 victory over Edgar Ghukasyan in Moscow. "It’s Tank time," said Hogan. "The middleweight division is wide open right now, and in this fight, I’m going to show the world that I belong amongst the best fighters in the division."
Hogan, a 6-foot-2 southpaw trained by Mark DeLuca, expects Villalba to attempt to fight at close range. "He’s shorter than me, so he’s going to try and fight inside," said Hogan. "When he does, he’s going to get drilled by my jab. I’ll stay relaxed, keep moving my feet as I throw punches, and break him down."
Hogan had more than 200 amateur bouts and won the 2019 New England Golden Gloves Championship before turning professional in 2020. He stopped 14 of his first 15 professional opponents. "As I started fighting higher-level opponents, I realized that I needed to become a ‘clean’ fighter," admits Hogan. "Mark and I went back to basics: hands up, a stiff jab and good head movement. It’s different, but that’s what I needed to do to be relaxed in the ring. You have to look in the mirror and work on slipping punches and ring generalship."
Hogan has also earned victories over Elvin Ayala and Khiary Gray. He said he eventually wants to face an unbeaten contender and identified IBF middleweight champion Aaron McKenna as a possible opponent. "That would be a great fight, but we’re taking things one step at a time," said Hogan. "First I’ll make a statement against Villalba, then we’ll figure out who’s next."
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A few words with middleweight Frank Hogan
Francis "Frank the Tank" Hogan (22-0, 17 KOs) will face Ricardo Villalba (20-12-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round middleweight bout on Saturday, August 29th, at Encore Boston Harbor. The bout headlines Boston Harbor Fight Night 2, the second collaboration between CES Boxing and Granite Chin Promotions at the venue. Hogan previously fought at Encore Boston Harbor in November 2025, defeating Antonio Todd by decision over eight rounds. "The strategy was to keep hitting the hole on him," explained Hogan of his performance. "He was a flat-footed fighter who liked to come forward. Every time he attacked, I would pivot around him, hit the hole and land shots. Once I realized he didn’t have much power, I started breaking him down and by the last few rounds I was walking him down."
Hogan returned in March against Ghana's Patrick Allotey. Hogan dropped Allotey in the fourth round before Allotey was disqualified in the fifth for intentionally kneeing Hogan in the head. "He punched hard and went more rounds than I thought he would, but I wish he would have been a bit more classy with the way things ended," reflected Hogan. "I was breaking him down and I know that I would have gotten him out of there one way or another."
Villalba has competed internationally, including a 2021 victory over Edgar Ghukasyan in Moscow. "It’s Tank time," said Hogan. "The middleweight division is wide open right now, and in this fight, I’m going to show the world that I belong amongst the best fighters in the division."
Hogan, a 6-foot-2 southpaw trained by Mark DeLuca, expects Villalba to attempt to fight at close range. "He’s shorter than me, so he’s going to try and fight inside," said Hogan. "When he does, he’s going to get drilled by my jab. I’ll stay relaxed, keep moving my feet as I throw punches, and break him down."
Hogan had more than 200 amateur bouts and won the 2019 New England Golden Gloves Championship before turning professional in 2020. He stopped 14 of his first 15 professional opponents. "As I started fighting higher-level opponents, I realized that I needed to become a ‘clean’ fighter," admits Hogan. "Mark and I went back to basics: hands up, a stiff jab and good head movement. It’s different, but that’s what I needed to do to be relaxed in the ring. You have to look in the mirror and work on slipping punches and ring generalship."
Hogan has also earned victories over Elvin Ayala and Khiary Gray. He said he eventually wants to face an unbeaten contender and identified IBF middleweight champion Aaron McKenna as a possible opponent. "That would be a great fight, but we’re taking things one step at a time," said Hogan. "First I’ll make a statement against Villalba, then we’ll figure out who’s next."
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Change of venue for Matchroom's London show |
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Matchroom Boxing’s upcoming London show next Saturday, August 22nd, headlined by George Liddard vs Dario Morello for the vacant European middleweight title, will now be staged at the Copper Box Arena in London – broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. The decision comes following temporary issues with York Hall which means it is no longer a viable venue. Matchroom Boxing extends its thanks to Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), who operates the Copper Box Arena on behalf of the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). Further ticket news, including details of additional tickets, will be released on Monday with all prior purchases retaining their tickets.
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Change of venue for Matchroom's London show
Matchroom Boxing’s upcoming London show next Saturday, August 22nd, headlined by George Liddard vs Dario Morello for the vacant European middleweight title, will now be staged at the Copper Box Arena in London – broadcast live worldwide on DAZN. The decision comes following temporary issues with York Hall which means it is no longer a viable venue. Matchroom Boxing extends its thanks to Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), who operates the Copper Box Arena on behalf of the London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC). Further ticket news, including details of additional tickets, will be released on Monday with all prior purchases retaining their tickets.
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Hayden Panettiere, ex-fiance of Wladimir Klitschko, dead at 36 |
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Hayden Panettiere, the ex-fiancé of former heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, has died at the age of 36. She was a successful actress in her own right. Panettiere's father, Skip, announced the actor's death in a statement provided to ABC News Sunday. No cause of death was announced, but it was well documented that Panettiere struggled with alcohol and depression. She and Klitschko had a daughter together in 2014, with Panettiere eventually choosing to give full custody of her daughter to Klitschko. Boxingtalk sends its condolences to the friends and family of Hayden Panettiere.
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Hayden Panettiere, ex-fiance of Wladimir Klitschko, dead at 36
Hayden Panettiere, the ex-fiancé of former heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko, has died at the age of 36. She was a successful actress in her own right. Panettiere's father, Skip, announced the actor's death in a statement provided to ABC News Sunday. No cause of death was announced, but it was well documented that Panettiere struggled with alcohol and depression. She and Klitschko had a daughter together in 2014, with Panettiere eventually choosing to give full custody of her daughter to Klitschko. Boxingtalk sends its condolences to the friends and family of Hayden Panettiere.
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Soft defense arranged for Camila Zamorano |
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WBC atomweight champion Camila "La Magnífica" Zamorano will defend her 102-pound title against fellow Mexican Perla Pérez on August 29th in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. At 18 years old, Zamorano became the WBC atomweight champion and has established herself as one of Mexico's top young fighters, quickly running her record up to 14-0. Pérez is 9-9-1, and her last two bouts were wins over women with sub-500 records.
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Soft defense arranged for Camila Zamorano
WBC atomweight champion Camila "La Magnífica" Zamorano will defend her 102-pound title against fellow Mexican Perla Pérez on August 29th in San Luis Potosí, Mexico. At 18 years old, Zamorano became the WBC atomweight champion and has established herself as one of Mexico's top young fighters, quickly running her record up to 14-0. Pérez is 9-9-1, and her last two bouts were wins over women with sub-500 records.
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