More title shenanigans from the WBA |
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In a posting on its website, the WBA announced it has changed this weekend's Jarron Ennis vs. Uisma Lima bout from an eliminator to an interim title bout. Ennis, a former welterweight champion, will be making his debut in the junior middleweight division. Yoenis Tellez is already listed as the WBA interim champion, so perhaps he is getting "e-mailed" the WBA championship.
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More title shenanigans from the WBA
In a posting on its website, the WBA announced it has changed this weekend's Jarron Ennis vs. Uisma Lima bout from an eliminator to an interim title bout. Ennis, a former welterweight champion, will be making his debut in the junior middleweight division. Yoenis Tellez is already listed as the WBA interim champion, so perhaps he is getting "e-mailed" the WBA championship.
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Arturo Gatti Jr., age 17, found dead |
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DAZN reported the death of Arturo Gatti Jr., the son of the late Hall of Famer and former champion Arturo Gatti. The younger Gatti, born in 2008, was an amateur boxer competing in Mexico at the time of his death. There was no cause of death given, but boxing injuries are not believed to be involved. Gatti Jr’s long-time coach Moe Latif confirmed the news, writing on social media: “It is unfortunately not a rumor or a joke. Arturo is gone.” The senior Gatti was murdered in 2009 prior to his son's first birthday. Boxingtalk sends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of gone-too-young Arturo Gatti Jr.
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Arturo Gatti Jr., age 17, found dead
DAZN reported the death of Arturo Gatti Jr., the son of the late Hall of Famer and former champion Arturo Gatti. The younger Gatti, born in 2008, was an amateur boxer competing in Mexico at the time of his death. There was no cause of death given, but boxing injuries are not believed to be involved. Gatti Jr’s long-time coach Moe Latif confirmed the news, writing on social media: “It is unfortunately not a rumor or a joke. Arturo is gone.” The senior Gatti was murdered in 2009 prior to his son's first birthday. Boxingtalk sends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of gone-too-young Arturo Gatti Jr.
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Roach: "I want to bring old-school boxing back" |
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Reigning WBA 130-pound champion Lamont Roach (pictured) and former WBA 140-pound champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz went face-to-face at a press conference in San Antonio on Wednesday to officially announce their showdown headlining a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, December 6th from Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. Pitbull vs. Roach presents a pivotal 140-pound clash as each look for a signature victory to separate themselves from the rest of the stacked junior welterweight division. The popular Mexican star Cruz will hope to send his fans home happy, while Roach can continue to push his trajectory upward after fighting Gervonta “Tank” Davis to a draw [that should have been a Roach win] earlier this year. Here is what Roach had to say Wednesday from Frost Bank Center:
LAMONT ROACH
“I told everyone what I’m here to do. I want to bring old-school boxing back. Me accepting this fight with Cruz proves that I’m like that. I’m definitely gonna give you guys a banger.
“I’m confident in my work. Like any other fight. It’s not just ‘Pitbull’. I’m always looking to hurt, demolish and stop every opponent. I look for that opportunity every time.
“Cruz is a hell of a fighter. He’s explosive and he’s the kind of guy the fans love to see. I’m definitely a great dance partner to complement his style. Just be tuned in. It’s gonna be what you guys expect. I’m gonna win and it’s gonna be a great show.
“I love facing his style, because it plays right into my strengths. It’s gonna show on December 6. All I have to do is do what I know how to do and I’ll be victorious for sure.
“If you can’t withstand what I’ve got, then it’s gonna be a long night for you. If you’re ready, then it’s gonna be a great fight.
“I’m gonna be strong as hell. I have less weight to cut and more room to work with. I’m in my physical prime right now and moving up in weight is another notch for me.
“Pitbull was always on our radar. We weren’t surprised when it came together. I’m trying to be one of the best fighters in the world. So going up and beating a champion like Cruz is a testament to what I can do in the ring.
“This would be a great statement. Some of these fighters might see me as a smaller guy coming up in weight and be eager to fight me. When I win this fight, I’ll be in line for the WBC champion or any of the other champions. That’s what I want. I want to give fans the best fights and prove I’m one of the best fighters in the world.”
LAMONT ROACH SR., Roach’s Father & Trainer
“I’m so excited about this fight and to be here in San Antonio. We’ve fought here before and had a good outing and loved the fans. I’ve got some roots here in Texas, so I love to be here. Everything’s bigger in Texas and we’re here to have a big matchup of champion against champion.
“We know ‘Pitbull’ is coming, but we’re gonna be ready. My son said he’s ready to go on his legacy run and we’re showing it by coming up here to 140. We’re here to make noise and make a statement.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“It’s great to be back promoting another big fight in the Alamo City. San Antonio has a rich boxing history with so many great battles and great champions. On Saturday, December 6 we’re gonna come right back with ‘Pitbull’ Cruz taking on Lamont Roach.
“We all know Pitbull is a Mexican fan-favorite and Roach is coming off a controversial draw over one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport, which proved that he’s one of the top fighters out there today. Now he’s stepping up in weight once again to take on the dangerous slugger Cruz. Roach is showing that he has an old school mentality and is willing to take on all challengers.
“This is a very dangerous fight for both fighters and both fighters feel they can win this fight. The winner will be in a great place heading into 2026.
“This sport needs a new star and with a spectacular win by ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, he could be launched into taking over those coveted May and September Mexican holidays. A big win by Lamont could put him in position to be the next big American pay-per-view star. There’s a lot on the line and it’s gonna be a great night on Saturday, December 6th here in San Antonio.”
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Roach: "I want to bring old-school boxing back"
Reigning WBA 130-pound champion Lamont Roach (pictured) and former WBA 140-pound champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz went face-to-face at a press conference in San Antonio on Wednesday to officially announce their showdown headlining a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, December 6th from Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. Pitbull vs. Roach presents a pivotal 140-pound clash as each look for a signature victory to separate themselves from the rest of the stacked junior welterweight division. The popular Mexican star Cruz will hope to send his fans home happy, while Roach can continue to push his trajectory upward after fighting Gervonta “Tank” Davis to a draw [that should have been a Roach win] earlier this year. Here is what Roach had to say Wednesday from Frost Bank Center:
LAMONT ROACH
“I told everyone what I’m here to do. I want to bring old-school boxing back. Me accepting this fight with Cruz proves that I’m like that. I’m definitely gonna give you guys a banger.
“I’m confident in my work. Like any other fight. It’s not just ‘Pitbull’. I’m always looking to hurt, demolish and stop every opponent. I look for that opportunity every time.
“Cruz is a hell of a fighter. He’s explosive and he’s the kind of guy the fans love to see. I’m definitely a great dance partner to complement his style. Just be tuned in. It’s gonna be what you guys expect. I’m gonna win and it’s gonna be a great show.
“I love facing his style, because it plays right into my strengths. It’s gonna show on December 6. All I have to do is do what I know how to do and I’ll be victorious for sure.
“If you can’t withstand what I’ve got, then it’s gonna be a long night for you. If you’re ready, then it’s gonna be a great fight.
“I’m gonna be strong as hell. I have less weight to cut and more room to work with. I’m in my physical prime right now and moving up in weight is another notch for me.
“Pitbull was always on our radar. We weren’t surprised when it came together. I’m trying to be one of the best fighters in the world. So going up and beating a champion like Cruz is a testament to what I can do in the ring.
“This would be a great statement. Some of these fighters might see me as a smaller guy coming up in weight and be eager to fight me. When I win this fight, I’ll be in line for the WBC champion or any of the other champions. That’s what I want. I want to give fans the best fights and prove I’m one of the best fighters in the world.”
LAMONT ROACH SR., Roach’s Father & Trainer
“I’m so excited about this fight and to be here in San Antonio. We’ve fought here before and had a good outing and loved the fans. I’ve got some roots here in Texas, so I love to be here. Everything’s bigger in Texas and we’re here to have a big matchup of champion against champion.
“We know ‘Pitbull’ is coming, but we’re gonna be ready. My son said he’s ready to go on his legacy run and we’re showing it by coming up here to 140. We’re here to make noise and make a statement.”
TOM BROWN, President of TGB Promotions
“It’s great to be back promoting another big fight in the Alamo City. San Antonio has a rich boxing history with so many great battles and great champions. On Saturday, December 6 we’re gonna come right back with ‘Pitbull’ Cruz taking on Lamont Roach.
“We all know Pitbull is a Mexican fan-favorite and Roach is coming off a controversial draw over one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport, which proved that he’s one of the top fighters out there today. Now he’s stepping up in weight once again to take on the dangerous slugger Cruz. Roach is showing that he has an old school mentality and is willing to take on all challengers.
“This is a very dangerous fight for both fighters and both fighters feel they can win this fight. The winner will be in a great place heading into 2026.
“This sport needs a new star and with a spectacular win by ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, he could be launched into taking over those coveted May and September Mexican holidays. A big win by Lamont could put him in position to be the next big American pay-per-view star. There’s a lot on the line and it’s gonna be a great night on Saturday, December 6th here in San Antonio.”
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Yoelvis Gomez to fight undefeated Antraveous Ingram |
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Yoelvis “La Joya” Gomez (9-1, 7 KOs), from Havana, Cuba, now fighting out of Las Vegas, returns to the ring on November, 1st in a can’t-miss ten-round junior middleweight clash against undefeated Antraveous Ingram (12-0, 6 KOs) of Kissimmee, Florida. The bout will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, as part of an event co-promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Boxlab Promotions. For Gomez, this fight represents both redemption and opportunity. The 28-year-old Cuban knockout artist is eager to remind fans why he’s one of boxing’s most explosive young talents. Three wins removed from his only loss, Gomez understands that Ingram’s undefeated record adds intrigue to the matchup, but he sees it as motivation, not pressure.
“This fight is my chance to show the world that I’m still one of the most dangerous fighters in the 154-pound division.” said Gomez. “I’ve faced adversity, I’ve made adjustments, and now I’m coming into this fight with more hunger than ever. When the bell rings, I want people to see a smarter, stronger version of me — a fighter ready to take over the division.”
Respectful yet confident, Gomez made it clear he’s not overlooking his opponent. “Antraveous Ingram is a talented, undefeated fighter, but I am ready for this challenge.” continued Gomez. “He’s earned his spot, but I’ve fought at a higher level, and I’m bringing the kind of power and precision that changes fights instantly. Fans tuning in on DAZN are going to see fireworks.”
For Gomez, this bout is more than a record booster; it’s about legacy. “Every fight is a step toward my dream — to bring a world title back to Cuba.” he added. “I fight for my people — for the Cuban flag and the next generation of fighters watching me chase greatness. A win on November 1st puts me back where I belong — on the path to a world championship.”
After losing to Marquis Taylor in 2023, Gomez took time to rebuild and refocus. “I’ve learned more from my setbacks than from my victories — and now I’m ready to rise higher than ever.” Gomez concluded. “Sometimes a loss wakes up the fighter inside you. I’ve refined my training, sharpened my defense, and elevated my mindset. You’re going to see a complete Yoelvis Gomez — one who is going to give it his all.”
“This fight is a pivotal moment for Yoelvis Gomez,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “He’s facing a hungry, undefeated fighter in Antraveous Ingram, and that’s exactly the kind of test we wanted. Yoelvis has all the means to make a statement — power, charisma, and the drive to become a world champion. A victory here not only reestablishes him as a top contender but also puts him back in the spotlight where he belongs.”
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Yoelvis Gomez to fight undefeated Antraveous Ingram
Yoelvis “La Joya” Gomez (9-1, 7 KOs), from Havana, Cuba, now fighting out of Las Vegas, returns to the ring on November, 1st in a can’t-miss ten-round junior middleweight clash against undefeated Antraveous Ingram (12-0, 6 KOs) of Kissimmee, Florida. The bout will be streamed live worldwide on DAZN from the Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida, as part of an event co-promoted by Matchroom Boxing and Boxlab Promotions. For Gomez, this fight represents both redemption and opportunity. The 28-year-old Cuban knockout artist is eager to remind fans why he’s one of boxing’s most explosive young talents. Three wins removed from his only loss, Gomez understands that Ingram’s undefeated record adds intrigue to the matchup, but he sees it as motivation, not pressure.
“This fight is my chance to show the world that I’m still one of the most dangerous fighters in the 154-pound division.” said Gomez. “I’ve faced adversity, I’ve made adjustments, and now I’m coming into this fight with more hunger than ever. When the bell rings, I want people to see a smarter, stronger version of me — a fighter ready to take over the division.”
Respectful yet confident, Gomez made it clear he’s not overlooking his opponent. “Antraveous Ingram is a talented, undefeated fighter, but I am ready for this challenge.” continued Gomez. “He’s earned his spot, but I’ve fought at a higher level, and I’m bringing the kind of power and precision that changes fights instantly. Fans tuning in on DAZN are going to see fireworks.”
For Gomez, this bout is more than a record booster; it’s about legacy. “Every fight is a step toward my dream — to bring a world title back to Cuba.” he added. “I fight for my people — for the Cuban flag and the next generation of fighters watching me chase greatness. A win on November 1st puts me back where I belong — on the path to a world championship.”
After losing to Marquis Taylor in 2023, Gomez took time to rebuild and refocus. “I’ve learned more from my setbacks than from my victories — and now I’m ready to rise higher than ever.” Gomez concluded. “Sometimes a loss wakes up the fighter inside you. I’ve refined my training, sharpened my defense, and elevated my mindset. You’re going to see a complete Yoelvis Gomez — one who is going to give it his all.”
“This fight is a pivotal moment for Yoelvis Gomez,” said Amaury Piedra, President of Boxlab Promotions. “He’s facing a hungry, undefeated fighter in Antraveous Ingram, and that’s exactly the kind of test we wanted. Yoelvis has all the means to make a statement — power, charisma, and the drive to become a world champion. A victory here not only reestablishes him as a top contender but also puts him back in the spotlight where he belongs.”
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Boston show booked for Nov. 15th |
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CES Boxing and Granite Chin Promotions will bring live professional boxing back to Greater Boston on Saturday, November 15th at Encore Boston Harbor. The highly anticipated event will showcase top regional talent in an exciting night of action, with Encore, New England’s premier entertainment destination, serving as the host venue. Headlining is a middleweight showdown between Boston’s own Francis "Frank the Tank" Hogan (20-0, 17 KOs) and Antonio "Primo" Todd (17-13, 9 KOs). Tickets are available now at Ticketree.us.
"Boston is a city passionate about sports, and we’re excited to bring that energy to Encore with our first live boxing event," states CES Boxing Founder Jimmy Burchfield Sr. "We’re proud to be working with Chris and Granite Chin to be the first to showcase boxing at Encore."
"Working with CES is long overdue" added Chris Traietti, head of Granite Chin Promotions. "We are looking forward to teaming up and delivering a special night at Encore. Both companies are inserting a little bit of their own style into this event, and Fight Night is going to be amazing."
Boston Harbor Fight Night promises an undercard featuring some of New England’s top rising talent. Full card details will be announced soon. This electrifying night of boxing will feature the area’s best fighters, with special appearances from sports and entertainments celebrities adding to the excitement. Beyond the action, fans can enjoy Encore Boston Harbor’s world-class dining, bars, and premier gaming, making it an unforgettable evening both inside and outside the ring.
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Boston show booked for Nov. 15th
CES Boxing and Granite Chin Promotions will bring live professional boxing back to Greater Boston on Saturday, November 15th at Encore Boston Harbor. The highly anticipated event will showcase top regional talent in an exciting night of action, with Encore, New England’s premier entertainment destination, serving as the host venue. Headlining is a middleweight showdown between Boston’s own Francis "Frank the Tank" Hogan (20-0, 17 KOs) and Antonio "Primo" Todd (17-13, 9 KOs). Tickets are available now at Ticketree.us.
"Boston is a city passionate about sports, and we’re excited to bring that energy to Encore with our first live boxing event," states CES Boxing Founder Jimmy Burchfield Sr. "We’re proud to be working with Chris and Granite Chin to be the first to showcase boxing at Encore."
"Working with CES is long overdue" added Chris Traietti, head of Granite Chin Promotions. "We are looking forward to teaming up and delivering a special night at Encore. Both companies are inserting a little bit of their own style into this event, and Fight Night is going to be amazing."
Boston Harbor Fight Night promises an undercard featuring some of New England’s top rising talent. Full card details will be announced soon. This electrifying night of boxing will feature the area’s best fighters, with special appearances from sports and entertainments celebrities adding to the excitement. Beyond the action, fans can enjoy Encore Boston Harbor’s world-class dining, bars, and premier gaming, making it an unforgettable evening both inside and outside the ring.
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Sunday's Hollywood, FL undercard details |
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On Sunday, October 12th at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Florida, lightweight Armando Martinez Rabi (16-0, 15 KOs) will take on Mexico's Willmank Canonico Brito (13-8-2, 11 KOs). In a heavyweight feature, Cuba's Gustavo “The Cuban Assassin” Trujillo (8-0, 7 KOs), now fighting out of of Miami, will face Juan Camilo Novoa (35-13-1, 32 KOs) of Coral Gables, Florida. An in another, heavyweight battle, 20 year-old local Lorenzo “Giant Killer” Medina (13-0, 11 KOS) will take on Iowa's Jardae Anderson (9-1, 7 KOs) over eight rounds. In the main event, Cuban middleweight Yoenli Hernandez (8-0, 7 KOs) will face Carlos Mohamed Rodriguez (16-14-1, 7 KOs) of Baja California Sur, Mexico in a scheduled ten rounder. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster. Doors open at 3:30 p.m.
Also scheduled for eight-round bouts are Cuban junior welterweight Raynel Mederos (8-0, 2 KOs) facing Isidro Curiel (11-5-1, 6 KOs) of Ciudad Madero, Mexico; plus another 140 pounder Aaron Aponte (12-3-1, 3 KOs) of Hialeah, Florida, doing battle against Cancun’s Luis May (22-21-1, 8 KOs). Junior lightweight Neslan “Pitbull” Machado (20-0, 9 KOs) of Miami, via Cuba, will be matched against California-based veteran Diuhl Olguin (17-46-7, 10 KOs).
In scheduled four-round supporting bouts, super flyweight Evelyn Romo (2-0) will face Shawna Ormsby (0-4-1) i a battle of Floridians, junior middleweight Andrew Garcia (1-0, 1 KO) of Sunrise, Florida, will look for his second career victory against pro debuting Dominicque McBride of Dallas; Miami lightweight Miguel Rosario Paredes (3-0, 2 KOs) will take on Kadhim Alkhazaali (0-2) of Massachusetts; and Orlando middleweight Carlos Velez will make his pro debut against Brandon Trollinger (0-1) of Charleston, South Carolina.
Rounding out the action will be a light heavyweight four-rounder, featuring two Floridians, Elliot Sven Taylor (1-0) vs. pro debuting Joaquin Lagree of West Palm Beach.
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Sunday's Hollywood, FL undercard details
On Sunday, October 12th at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Florida, lightweight Armando Martinez Rabi (16-0, 15 KOs) will take on Mexico's Willmank Canonico Brito (13-8-2, 11 KOs). In a heavyweight feature, Cuba's Gustavo “The Cuban Assassin” Trujillo (8-0, 7 KOs), now fighting out of of Miami, will face Juan Camilo Novoa (35-13-1, 32 KOs) of Coral Gables, Florida. An in another, heavyweight battle, 20 year-old local Lorenzo “Giant Killer” Medina (13-0, 11 KOS) will take on Iowa's Jardae Anderson (9-1, 7 KOs) over eight rounds. In the main event, Cuban middleweight Yoenli Hernandez (8-0, 7 KOs) will face Carlos Mohamed Rodriguez (16-14-1, 7 KOs) of Baja California Sur, Mexico in a scheduled ten rounder. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster. Doors open at 3:30 p.m.
Also scheduled for eight-round bouts are Cuban junior welterweight Raynel Mederos (8-0, 2 KOs) facing Isidro Curiel (11-5-1, 6 KOs) of Ciudad Madero, Mexico; plus another 140 pounder Aaron Aponte (12-3-1, 3 KOs) of Hialeah, Florida, doing battle against Cancun’s Luis May (22-21-1, 8 KOs). Junior lightweight Neslan “Pitbull” Machado (20-0, 9 KOs) of Miami, via Cuba, will be matched against California-based veteran Diuhl Olguin (17-46-7, 10 KOs).
In scheduled four-round supporting bouts, super flyweight Evelyn Romo (2-0) will face Shawna Ormsby (0-4-1) i a battle of Floridians, junior middleweight Andrew Garcia (1-0, 1 KO) of Sunrise, Florida, will look for his second career victory against pro debuting Dominicque McBride of Dallas; Miami lightweight Miguel Rosario Paredes (3-0, 2 KOs) will take on Kadhim Alkhazaali (0-2) of Massachusetts; and Orlando middleweight Carlos Velez will make his pro debut against Brandon Trollinger (0-1) of Charleston, South Carolina.
Rounding out the action will be a light heavyweight four-rounder, featuring two Floridians, Elliot Sven Taylor (1-0) vs. pro debuting Joaquin Lagree of West Palm Beach.
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Home cooking for Japan's Riku Kunimoto? |
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Riku Kunimoto W10 Uzbek Nuri ... On October 5th, Japanese middleweight Riku Kunimoto (15-1, 8 KOs) collected the vacant OPBF belt as he eked out a split decision over Korea-based Uzbek Nuri Ye a/k/a Egamberdi Nuriddinov (8-1-1, 5 KOs) over ten close rounds in Osaka. Official scores were 97-92 and 98-91 for Kunimoto, overruling a 95-94 tally for Ye. Kunimoto, age 28, nullified Ye’s solid attack with his tight peek-a-boo guard and occasionally retaliated with strong counters to the aggressor. But it was Ye, age 23, that scored a sole knockdown in the bout with a vicious left jab, dropping the home boxer on the seat of trunks in the tenth and final round. Though Kunimoto was awarded a hairline verdict, the game warrior Ye deserves a rematch.
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Home cooking for Japan's Riku Kunimoto?
Riku Kunimoto W10 Uzbek Nuri ... On October 5th, Japanese middleweight Riku Kunimoto (15-1, 8 KOs) collected the vacant OPBF belt as he eked out a split decision over Korea-based Uzbek Nuri Ye a/k/a Egamberdi Nuriddinov (8-1-1, 5 KOs) over ten close rounds in Osaka. Official scores were 97-92 and 98-91 for Kunimoto, overruling a 95-94 tally for Ye. Kunimoto, age 28, nullified Ye’s solid attack with his tight peek-a-boo guard and occasionally retaliated with strong counters to the aggressor. But it was Ye, age 23, that scored a sole knockdown in the bout with a vicious left jab, dropping the home boxer on the seat of trunks in the tenth and final round. Though Kunimoto was awarded a hairline verdict, the game warrior Ye deserves a rematch.
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Results from Argentina |
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Maximiliano Verón W10 Enzo Delgado ... On October 4th at Casino Buenos Aires, lightweight Maximiliano “El Profe” Verón (12-2, 4 KOs) turned in a strong performance against previously unbeaten Enzo Delgado (12-1-1, 6 KOs). Veron won the ten rounder by scores of 98-92 (twice) and 97-93. Veron demonstrated poise and tactical discipline, setting the pace and neutralizing Delgado’s power and aggression. A former national champion, Verón’s victory marks a major step forward in his quest to make waves again on the continental scene.
Lorena Balbuena W8 Juana Álvarez... On the same show, welterweight Lorena Balbuena (3-0) put on a commanding performance against Juana Álvarez (8-14, 1 KO), winning a unanimous decision by scores of 79-73 (twice) and 80-72. The fighter from Santa Fe dictated the action from the opening round, showcasing superior rhythm, accuracy, and distance control. Álvarez struggled to find solutions for Balbuena’s well-executed strategy, as the young contender continued to build momentum as one of Argentina’s brightest female prospects.
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Results from Argentina
Maximiliano Verón W10 Enzo Delgado ... On October 4th at Casino Buenos Aires, lightweight Maximiliano “El Profe” Verón (12-2, 4 KOs) turned in a strong performance against previously unbeaten Enzo Delgado (12-1-1, 6 KOs). Veron won the ten rounder by scores of 98-92 (twice) and 97-93. Veron demonstrated poise and tactical discipline, setting the pace and neutralizing Delgado’s power and aggression. A former national champion, Verón’s victory marks a major step forward in his quest to make waves again on the continental scene.
Lorena Balbuena W8 Juana Álvarez... On the same show, welterweight Lorena Balbuena (3-0) put on a commanding performance against Juana Álvarez (8-14, 1 KO), winning a unanimous decision by scores of 79-73 (twice) and 80-72. The fighter from Santa Fe dictated the action from the opening round, showcasing superior rhythm, accuracy, and distance control. Álvarez struggled to find solutions for Balbuena’s well-executed strategy, as the young contender continued to build momentum as one of Argentina’s brightest female prospects.
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Late results: O'Doherty wins British 135-pound title |
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Louie O’Doherty TKO10 Regan Glackin... At the Braehead Arena in Glasgow on Saturday night, the British lightweight title was on the line in a battle of the unbeatens match between Essex, England's Louie O’Doherty and local man Regan Glackin. O’Doherty, who became English champion last time out, simply had the measure of the home favorite and his skilful persistence paid off in the tenth round when the towel came in from the corner of Glackin. O'Doherty is now 11-0 while Glacin falls to 16-1. As previously reported, the main event saw local hero Nathaniel Collins fight to a draw and thereby fail in his bid to wrest the European featherweight title from Sapin's Cristobal Lorente
UNDERCARD
Light heavyweight Willy Hutchinson outclassed and then stopped a tough and highly-rated customer in Mark Jeffers in the seventh round....
Super bantamweight Marcus Sutherland was supposed to be in his toughest test to date against the unbeaten Kerim Agius, but it was all over in less than two minutes...
Middleweight Aston Brown took a little bit longer to dispatch Paul Kean and seize the Celtic title, with the fight being called off just over midway through the second round. The formidable Brown now has his vision firmly trained in the direction of the British title belt...
World under-19 champion John Joe Carrigan gave fans a glimpse into his future with a spectacular debut performance against Dawid Przybyiski, who he finished off inside a round. Keep an eye out for this young man...
Puerto Rican amateur star Yandiel Lozano demonstrated his extensive skillset over six rounds against Mario Victorino Vera...
Earlier in the evening, Queensberry’s young Scottish charges all impressed, with Drew Limon, Alex Arthur Jr and Reese Lynch all posting wins.
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Late results: O'Doherty wins British 135-pound title
Louie O’Doherty TKO10 Regan Glackin... At the Braehead Arena in Glasgow on Saturday night, the British lightweight title was on the line in a battle of the unbeatens match between Essex, England's Louie O’Doherty and local man Regan Glackin. O’Doherty, who became English champion last time out, simply had the measure of the home favorite and his skilful persistence paid off in the tenth round when the towel came in from the corner of Glackin. O'Doherty is now 11-0 while Glacin falls to 16-1. As previously reported, the main event saw local hero Nathaniel Collins fight to a draw and thereby fail in his bid to wrest the European featherweight title from Sapin's Cristobal Lorente
UNDERCARD
Light heavyweight Willy Hutchinson outclassed and then stopped a tough and highly-rated customer in Mark Jeffers in the seventh round....
Super bantamweight Marcus Sutherland was supposed to be in his toughest test to date against the unbeaten Kerim Agius, but it was all over in less than two minutes...
Middleweight Aston Brown took a little bit longer to dispatch Paul Kean and seize the Celtic title, with the fight being called off just over midway through the second round. The formidable Brown now has his vision firmly trained in the direction of the British title belt...
World under-19 champion John Joe Carrigan gave fans a glimpse into his future with a spectacular debut performance against Dawid Przybyiski, who he finished off inside a round. Keep an eye out for this young man...
Puerto Rican amateur star Yandiel Lozano demonstrated his extensive skillset over six rounds against Mario Victorino Vera...
Earlier in the evening, Queensberry’s young Scottish charges all impressed, with Drew Limon, Alex Arthur Jr and Reese Lynch all posting wins.
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Matchroom returning to Monte Carlo in December |
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One of the most prestigious dates on the calendar has officially been confirmed as Matchroom Boxing looks forward to returning to the Principality of Monaco on Saturday, December 6th, in partnership with Société des Bains de Mer and Casino de Monte-Carlo. The show will be streamed live around the world on DAZN. , another blockbuster, festive fixture awaits at Sporting Monte-Carlo’s exquisite Salle Des Étoiles. No announcement yet about who will box on the show. The full card, which Matchroom says will include "world title fights and household names alike" will be confirmed in due course. In last year's show, former unified 122-pound king Murodjon ‘MJ’ Akhmadaliev defeated Ricardo Espinoza Franco to then capture the WBA interim title, which set up his recent world championship showdown vs. Naoya Inoue (which Inoue won).
Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “This really is a special event for Matchroom Boxing – and this year you will see the best card we have ever staged in the principality. Monte-Carlo oozes with class and, over the years, we have matched it by delivering some truly memorable fight nights showcasing some of the biggest and best talent in the sport. Saturday, December 6, promises to match it once more with another unmissable evening. Get your tickets – and be ready to look sharp in your tuxedo too.”
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Matchroom returning to Monte Carlo in December
One of the most prestigious dates on the calendar has officially been confirmed as Matchroom Boxing looks forward to returning to the Principality of Monaco on Saturday, December 6th, in partnership with Société des Bains de Mer and Casino de Monte-Carlo. The show will be streamed live around the world on DAZN. , another blockbuster, festive fixture awaits at Sporting Monte-Carlo’s exquisite Salle Des Étoiles. No announcement yet about who will box on the show. The full card, which Matchroom says will include "world title fights and household names alike" will be confirmed in due course. In last year's show, former unified 122-pound king Murodjon ‘MJ’ Akhmadaliev defeated Ricardo Espinoza Franco to then capture the WBA interim title, which set up his recent world championship showdown vs. Naoya Inoue (which Inoue won).
Matchroom Sport chairman Eddie Hearn said: “This really is a special event for Matchroom Boxing – and this year you will see the best card we have ever staged in the principality. Monte-Carlo oozes with class and, over the years, we have matched it by delivering some truly memorable fight nights showcasing some of the biggest and best talent in the sport. Saturday, December 6, promises to match it once more with another unmissable evening. Get your tickets – and be ready to look sharp in your tuxedo too.”
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Ex-champ Mary McGee returns on Thursday |
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Women’s boxing will take center stage tomorrow (Thursday, October 9th) when Canada’s Natasha “The Nightmare” Spence (9-8-2, 6 KOs) faces former 140-pound title holder Mary “Merciless” McGee (28-4, 16 KOs) in a junior middleweight bout at the historic Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. At 40 years old, Spence comes in determined to keep her momentum going after snapping a seven-fight losing streak with a victory in August. Spence's hallmarks are her pressure and toughness. Across the ring will stand McGee, a seasoned warrior with a résumé that speaks for itself. The 39 year-old McGee had a title run at 140 pounds from 2019 to 2021 but has not fought since January 2023. In two of her losses, she went the distance with Holly Holm and Chantelle Cameron. McGee brings a blend of experience, timing, and power that has kept her relevant across multiple weight classes. McGee’s style is built on constant pressure, sharp ring IQ, and the ability to close rounds with authority, traits that could prove decisive in this matchup.
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Ex-champ Mary McGee returns on Thursday
Women’s boxing will take center stage tomorrow (Thursday, October 9th) when Canada’s Natasha “The Nightmare” Spence (9-8-2, 6 KOs) faces former 140-pound title holder Mary “Merciless” McGee (28-4, 16 KOs) in a junior middleweight bout at the historic Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. At 40 years old, Spence comes in determined to keep her momentum going after snapping a seven-fight losing streak with a victory in August. Spence's hallmarks are her pressure and toughness. Across the ring will stand McGee, a seasoned warrior with a résumé that speaks for itself. The 39 year-old McGee had a title run at 140 pounds from 2019 to 2021 but has not fought since January 2023. In two of her losses, she went the distance with Holly Holm and Chantelle Cameron. McGee brings a blend of experience, timing, and power that has kept her relevant across multiple weight classes. McGee’s style is built on constant pressure, sharp ring IQ, and the ability to close rounds with authority, traits that could prove decisive in this matchup.
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Yoenli Hernandez looking for bigger fights after this weekend |
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Cuban middleweight Yoenli Hernandez says he is ready for battle this Sunday, October 12th at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Hernandez believes he will be ready for anyone in the 160-pound division after that. Hernandez (8-0, 7 KOs) will face Mexican spoiler Carlos Mohamed Rodriguez (16-14-1, 7 KOs) of Baja California Sur, Mexico in the ten-round main event of Kris Lawrence & The Heavyweight Factory’s eighth installment of the “Fists of Fury” boxing series. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. In an era of rising Cuban stars that includes David Morrell Jr., Andy Cruz and others, Hernández is looking to change the perception of Cuban fighters as risk-averse combatants. With knockout victories in seven of his eight pro bouts, Hernandez is one of the most exciting fighters to come out of the current wave of Cuban boxers looking to overtake the sport. Originally from Camaguey, Cuba, Hernandez had an outstanding amateur career, competing for the Cuban National Team internationally. He abandoned the Cuban delegation in May 2023 during a stopover in Panama, and is now living in Providence, Rhode Island.
The undefeated Hernández competed at the 2021 AIBA World Boxing Championships, winning the gold medal at middleweight.
After his first two pro fights took place in Mexico, Hernandez’s last six outings have come stateside. His last bout, in May of this year, saw him win the toughest test of his career to date, a shutout unanimous decision over established contender Kyrone Davis (then 19-3-1, 6 KOs). Hernandez had little trouble controlling Davis in that performance.
In addition to the experience gained under the bright lights of fight night, Hernandez has been buoyed by rounds spent sparring with former multi-weight champion and future hall of famer Canelo Alvarez. During a break in final training preparations this week, the 28-year-old talked about his upcoming fight and his plans for taking over the 160-lb division in the very near future.
Here’s what he had to say:
Q: What do you know about your opponent and why will you win this fight?
A: I don’t really know much about him. I trust my team. They have watched some of his fights and I’m very confident that they have come up with the right game plan.
Q: Are you surprised by the speed of your rise in the professional ranks?
A: I am very surprised at how fast I have risen up the ranks after my fight with Kyrone Davis. I am now at or near the top of all the ranking sanctioning bodies. I’m very happy with all the recognition I have received from the boxing world. I’m ready, willing and absolutely able to face the big names in my division.
Q: Do you have a message for your Cuban fan who will be in attendance that day?
A: To all my Cuban fans, thank you for all the support in my career from the amateurs to this moment.
Q: Do you think you’re ready for a world championship fight?
A: This is a stay busy fight until those big names actually make a fight with me. I am ready for whoever has the belt in my division. Bring them on!
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Yoenli Hernandez looking for bigger fights after this weekend
Cuban middleweight Yoenli Hernandez says he is ready for battle this Sunday, October 12th at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida. Hernandez believes he will be ready for anyone in the 160-pound division after that. Hernandez (8-0, 7 KOs) will face Mexican spoiler Carlos Mohamed Rodriguez (16-14-1, 7 KOs) of Baja California Sur, Mexico in the ten-round main event of Kris Lawrence & The Heavyweight Factory’s eighth installment of the “Fists of Fury” boxing series. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. In an era of rising Cuban stars that includes David Morrell Jr., Andy Cruz and others, Hernández is looking to change the perception of Cuban fighters as risk-averse combatants. With knockout victories in seven of his eight pro bouts, Hernandez is one of the most exciting fighters to come out of the current wave of Cuban boxers looking to overtake the sport. Originally from Camaguey, Cuba, Hernandez had an outstanding amateur career, competing for the Cuban National Team internationally. He abandoned the Cuban delegation in May 2023 during a stopover in Panama, and is now living in Providence, Rhode Island.
The undefeated Hernández competed at the 2021 AIBA World Boxing Championships, winning the gold medal at middleweight.
After his first two pro fights took place in Mexico, Hernandez’s last six outings have come stateside. His last bout, in May of this year, saw him win the toughest test of his career to date, a shutout unanimous decision over established contender Kyrone Davis (then 19-3-1, 6 KOs). Hernandez had little trouble controlling Davis in that performance.
In addition to the experience gained under the bright lights of fight night, Hernandez has been buoyed by rounds spent sparring with former multi-weight champion and future hall of famer Canelo Alvarez. During a break in final training preparations this week, the 28-year-old talked about his upcoming fight and his plans for taking over the 160-lb division in the very near future.
Here’s what he had to say:
Q: What do you know about your opponent and why will you win this fight?
A: I don’t really know much about him. I trust my team. They have watched some of his fights and I’m very confident that they have come up with the right game plan.
Q: Are you surprised by the speed of your rise in the professional ranks?
A: I am very surprised at how fast I have risen up the ranks after my fight with Kyrone Davis. I am now at or near the top of all the ranking sanctioning bodies. I’m very happy with all the recognition I have received from the boxing world. I’m ready, willing and absolutely able to face the big names in my division.
Q: Do you have a message for your Cuban fan who will be in attendance that day?
A: To all my Cuban fans, thank you for all the support in my career from the amateurs to this moment.
Q: Do you think you’re ready for a world championship fight?
A: This is a stay busy fight until those big names actually make a fight with me. I am ready for whoever has the belt in my division. Bring them on!
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Lamont Roach moving up to 140 to face Pitbull Cruz |
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Mexican star and former junior welterweight champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will face reigning WBA junior lightweight champion Lamont Roach, a fight that will headline a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, December 6th from Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Roach will be moving up a weight class for the second time in two fights. The WBA 130-pound champion, he moved up to challenge WBA 135-pound champion Gervonta "Tank" Davis in his last fight. Roach performed spectacularly and was robbed by horrible officiating that failed to credit him with a knockdown, changing what should have been a Roach win into a draw. Davis badly ducked Roach's quest for a rematch, so Roach will now move up to 140 pounds.
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Lamont Roach moving up to 140 to face Pitbull Cruz
Mexican star and former junior welterweight champion Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz will face reigning WBA junior lightweight champion Lamont Roach, a fight that will headline a PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video on Saturday, December 6th from Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. Roach will be moving up a weight class for the second time in two fights. The WBA 130-pound champion, he moved up to challenge WBA 135-pound champion Gervonta "Tank" Davis in his last fight. Roach performed spectacularly and was robbed by horrible officiating that failed to credit him with a knockdown, changing what should have been a Roach win into a draw. Davis badly ducked Roach's quest for a rematch, so Roach will now move up to 140 pounds.
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Barthelemy to test Martin at junior welterweight |
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After a strong run at 135 pounds that established himself as one of the slickest fighters in the sport, Frank “The Ghost” Martin will look to begin a run in the 140-pound weight division as he faces Cuba’s former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy (pictured) in a ten-round attraction. Martin-Barthelemy tops a three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup on Saturday, October 25th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in the lead-up to the PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video headlined by WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora against former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman. The streaming presentation will also feature undefeated teenager Kaipo Gallegos facing the hard-hitting Nike Theran in a ten-round lightweight matchup, and unbeaten junior lighweight Luis “The Twist” Nunez dueling Argentina's Hector Sosa in the ten-round opening about at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
These fights lead into the four-fight pay-per-view beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT, which features two-division champion Stephen Fulton Jr., the reigning WBC featherweight champion, moving up to take on WBC junior lightweight champion O’Shaquie Foster in the 130-pound world title fight co-feature. The pay-per-view lineup also features Mexico's Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. in a high-stakes duel against Shane Mosley Jr. for the Interim WBC middleweight title, and undefeated young Mexican star Isaac “La Bestia” Lucero battling hard-hitting Roberto Valenzuela Jr. in an all-Mexican 154-pound showdown. Tickets for the live event are available now through AXS.com.
Prior to losing a title shot vs. Gervonta "Tank" Davis in 2024, the 30 year-old Martin (18-1, 12 KOs) had most recently shown that his power can last through a 12-round fight as he dropped the previously unbeaten Artem Harutyunyan in the final frame to clinch a unanimous decision victory in July 2023. His previous outing saw him stamp his status as one of the elite 135-pounders in the sport as he dropped and dominated the then-unbeaten Michel Rivera on his way to a unanimous decision in December 2022. Martin’s initial ascent at 135-pounds saw him begin by stopping then unbeaten Jerry Perez in April 2021 before dispatching of tough contenders Jackson Marinez, Romero Duno and Ryan Kielczweski.
“I’m excited to be back after people tried to bash me for taking one loss,” said Martin. “I took it as a lesson learned and I’m back mentally and physically at the top of my game. Rances is gonna have to deal with everything I went through, and he’s gonna feel it on every punch. I’m back and I’m pissed off and dangerous.”
A native of Havana, Cuba now fighting out of Las Vegas, Barthelemy (30-3-1, 15 KOs) steps back into action after dropping a decision to former unified champion Jose Carlos Ramirez in April 2024. His previous two outings saw him best contender Omar Juarez in May 2023 after a July 2022 defeat to Gary Antuanne Russell in which many believed the referee waived off the fight prematurely. A world champion at 130 and 135 pounds, Barthelemy owns notable victories over Argenis Mendez, Antonio DeMarco, Mickey Bey and Denis Shafikov. His only other professional loss came in a 2018 140-pound championship rematch against Kiryl Relikh. Barthelemy comes from a fighting family, as he is the middle brother between the younger Leduan and the older Yan, who won a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics.
“October 25 is the night I remind everyone who Rances Barthelemy is,” said Barthelemy. “Frank Martin is a talented fighter, but I’ve been in deep waters before, and experience counts when the lights are brightest. I’m coming with new hunger, sharper focus, and the fire of a man chasing one more world title run. Fans tuning in are going to see me determined to leave everything in the ring. I’m not here to survive, I’m here to dominate and make sure my name is back on everyone’s radar.”
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Barthelemy to test Martin at junior welterweight
After a strong run at 135 pounds that established himself as one of the slickest fighters in the sport, Frank “The Ghost” Martin will look to begin a run in the 140-pound weight division as he faces Cuba’s former two-division world champion Rances Barthelemy (pictured) in a ten-round attraction. Martin-Barthelemy tops a three-fight PBC on Prime Video lineup on Saturday, October 25th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in the lead-up to the PBC pay-per-view event on Prime Video headlined by WBC 154-pound champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora against former unified welterweight champion Keith “One Time” Thurman. The streaming presentation will also feature undefeated teenager Kaipo Gallegos facing the hard-hitting Nike Theran in a ten-round lightweight matchup, and unbeaten junior lighweight Luis “The Twist” Nunez dueling Argentina's Hector Sosa in the ten-round opening about at 5:30 p.m. ET/2:30 p.m. PT.
These fights lead into the four-fight pay-per-view beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET/5:00 p.m. PT, which features two-division champion Stephen Fulton Jr., the reigning WBC featherweight champion, moving up to take on WBC junior lightweight champion O’Shaquie Foster in the 130-pound world title fight co-feature. The pay-per-view lineup also features Mexico's Jesus “Mono” Ramos Jr. in a high-stakes duel against Shane Mosley Jr. for the Interim WBC middleweight title, and undefeated young Mexican star Isaac “La Bestia” Lucero battling hard-hitting Roberto Valenzuela Jr. in an all-Mexican 154-pound showdown. Tickets for the live event are available now through AXS.com.
Prior to losing a title shot vs. Gervonta "Tank" Davis in 2024, the 30 year-old Martin (18-1, 12 KOs) had most recently shown that his power can last through a 12-round fight as he dropped the previously unbeaten Artem Harutyunyan in the final frame to clinch a unanimous decision victory in July 2023. His previous outing saw him stamp his status as one of the elite 135-pounders in the sport as he dropped and dominated the then-unbeaten Michel Rivera on his way to a unanimous decision in December 2022. Martin’s initial ascent at 135-pounds saw him begin by stopping then unbeaten Jerry Perez in April 2021 before dispatching of tough contenders Jackson Marinez, Romero Duno and Ryan Kielczweski.
“I’m excited to be back after people tried to bash me for taking one loss,” said Martin. “I took it as a lesson learned and I’m back mentally and physically at the top of my game. Rances is gonna have to deal with everything I went through, and he’s gonna feel it on every punch. I’m back and I’m pissed off and dangerous.”
A native of Havana, Cuba now fighting out of Las Vegas, Barthelemy (30-3-1, 15 KOs) steps back into action after dropping a decision to former unified champion Jose Carlos Ramirez in April 2024. His previous two outings saw him best contender Omar Juarez in May 2023 after a July 2022 defeat to Gary Antuanne Russell in which many believed the referee waived off the fight prematurely. A world champion at 130 and 135 pounds, Barthelemy owns notable victories over Argenis Mendez, Antonio DeMarco, Mickey Bey and Denis Shafikov. His only other professional loss came in a 2018 140-pound championship rematch against Kiryl Relikh. Barthelemy comes from a fighting family, as he is the middle brother between the younger Leduan and the older Yan, who won a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics.
“October 25 is the night I remind everyone who Rances Barthelemy is,” said Barthelemy. “Frank Martin is a talented fighter, but I’ve been in deep waters before, and experience counts when the lights are brightest. I’m coming with new hunger, sharper focus, and the fire of a man chasing one more world title run. Fans tuning in are going to see me determined to leave everything in the ring. I’m not here to survive, I’m here to dominate and make sure my name is back on everyone’s radar.”
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More results from Russia: Jalolov wins, gets called out by Khalidov |
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Bakhodir Jalolov W8 Vitaly Kudukhov... Heavyweight Bakhodir Jalolov, a two-time Olympic champion, won a hard-fought points win over Vitaly Kudukhov after eight surprisingly competitive rounds. Jalolov (listed as 16-0, but 20-2 is the more accurate record because it includes paid World Series of Boxing bouts) began the bout on the offensive, controlling the distance behind his southpaw jab and looking for openings to land his signature left-hand. However, Kudukhov (7-4, 3 KOs) stuck gamely to his task, forcing ‘The Big Uzbek’ to stand and trade as the two men went to war down the stretch. Nevertheless, it was the cleaner punching and superior skill-set of Uzbek star Jalolov that was enough to secure the victory on the judges’ scorecards. In the main event, Murad Khalidov scored a stunning seventh-round knockout of Sergey Kuzmin. Khalidov has spent the last decade in bare-knuckle boxing but called out Jalolov after his win. “I want to fight Bakhodir Jalolov next,” said Khalidov. ADDITIONAL RESULTS Vage Sarukhanyan produced a career-best performance to capture the Russian 140-pound title with a decision win over Georgii Chelokhsaev. Armenian-born Sarukhanyan (22-4-2, 4 KOs), who entered the fight as wide as a 6-to-1 betting underdog, boxed intelligently on the back foot; using his lateral movement and sharp counters to stifle the advancing Chelokhsaev (24-3-1, 16 KOs) and pick up the deserved upset victory... Junior welterweight Khariton Agrba got back to winning ways with a clinical display to outpoint the rugged Charles Shinima (19-3, 13 KOs) over ten rounds. Agrba (16-1, 9 KOs) boxed intelligently in booking the win, rebounding from his first career defeat in style and putting his championship aspirations back on track... Nikita Kuzmin (1-0 IBA Pro) produced a dominant performance to shut out Nekruz Salimov (1-1 IBA Pro) on the scorecards in their six round middleweight encounter... Alexander Zyryanov (1-0 IBA Pro) kicked off his IBA Pro career with a fourth-round stoppage win over Uzbekistan's Khikmatillo Ulmasov (0-1 IBA Pro) in a welterweight contest... Light heavyweight Cheerav Ashalaev (1-0) previled in his professional debut, utilizing superior speed and skills to outpoint Sajad Mehrabi (6-6-2, 4 KOs) over six rounds... Local junior welterweight Tamerlan Ozdoev (3-0, 1 KO) edged Juma Kijo (7-2, 3 KOs) via six-round unanimous decision... Karina Tazabekova (6-0, 1 KO) outpointed Zambia’s Lina Kasweka (9-3, 4 KOs) in their six round super-bantamweight bout... Junior middleweight debutant Igor Sviridchenkov (1-0, 1 KO) halted Thailand’s Rattawut Thongaram (10-5, 8 KOs) via TKO in two and.... In a heavily-hyped junior middleweight crossover contest, Andrey ‘Wushu Master’ Efimov scored a crushing third round knockout over Kamariddin ‘Kamil Karate’ Khasanov.
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More results from Russia: Jalolov wins, gets called out by Khalidov
Bakhodir Jalolov W8 Vitaly Kudukhov... Heavyweight Bakhodir Jalolov, a two-time Olympic champion, won a hard-fought points win over Vitaly Kudukhov after eight surprisingly competitive rounds. Jalolov (listed as 16-0, but 20-2 is the more accurate record because it includes paid World Series of Boxing bouts) began the bout on the offensive, controlling the distance behind his southpaw jab and looking for openings to land his signature left-hand. However, Kudukhov (7-4, 3 KOs) stuck gamely to his task, forcing ‘The Big Uzbek’ to stand and trade as the two men went to war down the stretch. Nevertheless, it was the cleaner punching and superior skill-set of Uzbek star Jalolov that was enough to secure the victory on the judges’ scorecards. In the main event, Murad Khalidov scored a stunning seventh-round knockout of Sergey Kuzmin. Khalidov has spent the last decade in bare-knuckle boxing but called out Jalolov after his win. “I want to fight Bakhodir Jalolov next,” said Khalidov. ADDITIONAL RESULTS Vage Sarukhanyan produced a career-best performance to capture the Russian 140-pound title with a decision win over Georgii Chelokhsaev. Armenian-born Sarukhanyan (22-4-2, 4 KOs), who entered the fight as wide as a 6-to-1 betting underdog, boxed intelligently on the back foot; using his lateral movement and sharp counters to stifle the advancing Chelokhsaev (24-3-1, 16 KOs) and pick up the deserved upset victory... Junior welterweight Khariton Agrba got back to winning ways with a clinical display to outpoint the rugged Charles Shinima (19-3, 13 KOs) over ten rounds. Agrba (16-1, 9 KOs) boxed intelligently in booking the win, rebounding from his first career defeat in style and putting his championship aspirations back on track... Nikita Kuzmin (1-0 IBA Pro) produced a dominant performance to shut out Nekruz Salimov (1-1 IBA Pro) on the scorecards in their six round middleweight encounter... Alexander Zyryanov (1-0 IBA Pro) kicked off his IBA Pro career with a fourth-round stoppage win over Uzbekistan's Khikmatillo Ulmasov (0-1 IBA Pro) in a welterweight contest... Light heavyweight Cheerav Ashalaev (1-0) previled in his professional debut, utilizing superior speed and skills to outpoint Sajad Mehrabi (6-6-2, 4 KOs) over six rounds... Local junior welterweight Tamerlan Ozdoev (3-0, 1 KO) edged Juma Kijo (7-2, 3 KOs) via six-round unanimous decision... Karina Tazabekova (6-0, 1 KO) outpointed Zambia’s Lina Kasweka (9-3, 4 KOs) in their six round super-bantamweight bout... Junior middleweight debutant Igor Sviridchenkov (1-0, 1 KO) halted Thailand’s Rattawut Thongaram (10-5, 8 KOs) via TKO in two and.... In a heavily-hyped junior middleweight crossover contest, Andrey ‘Wushu Master’ Efimov scored a crushing third round knockout over Kamariddin ‘Kamil Karate’ Khasanov.
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Boxing comes to Houston this Friday |
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BiYu Promotions is gearing up to bring the city of Houston an exciting evening of professional boxing this Friday. The card will feature six bouts in all. The main event will pit Alexander Ezpinoza (23-8-3) of Nicaragua against Mansfield, Ohio police officer Chaise Nelson (21-3-1). The co-feature will be Baytown, TX's Favian Lopez (9-1-1) against Ariel De Jesus De La Rosa (2-6) of Ciudad Madero, Mexico. The undercard will be highlighted by a four-round super middleweight bout between local man Charles Baylor (5-0) and Venezuelan-born German Ramos (0-1). Things are scheduled to kick off at 7PM at the venue, which is Houston's Club Hefe. To purchase tickets, go to BiYuPromotions.com. Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt is set to be the ring announcer.
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Boxing comes to Houston this Friday
BiYu Promotions is gearing up to bring the city of Houston an exciting evening of professional boxing this Friday. The card will feature six bouts in all. The main event will pit Alexander Ezpinoza (23-8-3) of Nicaragua against Mansfield, Ohio police officer Chaise Nelson (21-3-1). The co-feature will be Baytown, TX's Favian Lopez (9-1-1) against Ariel De Jesus De La Rosa (2-6) of Ciudad Madero, Mexico. The undercard will be highlighted by a four-round super middleweight bout between local man Charles Baylor (5-0) and Venezuelan-born German Ramos (0-1). Things are scheduled to kick off at 7PM at the venue, which is Houston's Club Hefe. To purchase tickets, go to BiYuPromotions.com. Boxingtalk writer Christian Schmidt is set to be the ring announcer.
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Harlem Eubank to face Josh Wagner on Nov. 21st |
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Harlem Eubank is coming back with a point to prove when he takes on ‘wild man’ Josh Wagner (19-1), live on Great Britain's channel 5. Eubank (21-1) returns to the Brighton Centre, on Friday, November 21st to face the Canadian following Eubank's contentious loss to Jack Catterall earlier this year. Harlem plans on shutting up his critics and putting himself firmly back in world title contention with a devastating victory, in front of his home fans. But Wagner is straining at the leash for his chance to wreck Eubank’s title plans and heads to Brighton ready to inflict a defeat. Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, can also confirm the first two barnstorming undercard fights for the November 21st show, with Niall Brown facing Darren Johnstone at super middleweight. Also hard-hitting heavyweights Matty Harris and Franklin Ignatius take their bad blood into an eight-round shootout, with the winner moving towards a domestic title shot in the New Year. Tickets go on sale on Monday at 10am. Eubank said: “The fight with Catterall proved that I belong at world level. The critics couldn’t wait to stick the boot in afterwards, but mark my words, I will be world champion and after I handle business on November 21st against Josh Wagner, I’m coming straight for the title. “Trust me, I’m only just getting started and in front of my home fans, I’ll make the naysayers eat their words as it will be Eubank supremacy once again with a devastating display. “Everyone has seen what happens when I fight in Brighton, I produce clinical performances and get the job done inside the distance, and this will be exactly the same.” Wagner said: “I watched Eubank’s last fight, and he clearly didn’t go in there to win. He stepped up in class and was exposed. His career is on the ropes, and he desperately needs a win to get back on track, but he’s picked the wrong opponent for that. “I’m relentless, I train to knock people out and on November 21 Eubank will fall.” Kalle Sauerland, Head of Global Boxing at Wasserman, said: “Never, ever, write off a Eubank. Harlem cannot wait to meet Wagner in the middle of the ring and put on a performance that sets the record straight. “This man proved he belongs at world level in that Catterall fight and victory over the wild man Wagner, puts him right in the picture for a title shot next year. “It’ll not be a fight for the feint-hearted and tops a brilliant card which also features an IBO title showdown between Niall Brown and Darren Johnstone, as well as Harris vs. Ignatius in a heavyweight humdinger, that has bad intentions written all over it!"
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Harlem Eubank to face Josh Wagner on Nov. 21st
Harlem Eubank is coming back with a point to prove when he takes on ‘wild man’ Josh Wagner (19-1), live on Great Britain's channel 5. Eubank (21-1) returns to the Brighton Centre, on Friday, November 21st to face the Canadian following Eubank's contentious loss to Jack Catterall earlier this year. Harlem plans on shutting up his critics and putting himself firmly back in world title contention with a devastating victory, in front of his home fans. But Wagner is straining at the leash for his chance to wreck Eubank’s title plans and heads to Brighton ready to inflict a defeat. Wasserman Boxing, in association with Ladbrokes and Infinitum, can also confirm the first two barnstorming undercard fights for the November 21st show, with Niall Brown facing Darren Johnstone at super middleweight. Also hard-hitting heavyweights Matty Harris and Franklin Ignatius take their bad blood into an eight-round shootout, with the winner moving towards a domestic title shot in the New Year. Tickets go on sale on Monday at 10am. Eubank said: “The fight with Catterall proved that I belong at world level. The critics couldn’t wait to stick the boot in afterwards, but mark my words, I will be world champion and after I handle business on November 21st against Josh Wagner, I’m coming straight for the title. “Trust me, I’m only just getting started and in front of my home fans, I’ll make the naysayers eat their words as it will be Eubank supremacy once again with a devastating display. “Everyone has seen what happens when I fight in Brighton, I produce clinical performances and get the job done inside the distance, and this will be exactly the same.” Wagner said: “I watched Eubank’s last fight, and he clearly didn’t go in there to win. He stepped up in class and was exposed. His career is on the ropes, and he desperately needs a win to get back on track, but he’s picked the wrong opponent for that. “I’m relentless, I train to knock people out and on November 21 Eubank will fall.” Kalle Sauerland, Head of Global Boxing at Wasserman, said: “Never, ever, write off a Eubank. Harlem cannot wait to meet Wagner in the middle of the ring and put on a performance that sets the record straight. “This man proved he belongs at world level in that Catterall fight and victory over the wild man Wagner, puts him right in the picture for a title shot next year. “It’ll not be a fight for the feint-hearted and tops a brilliant card which also features an IBO title showdown between Niall Brown and Darren Johnstone, as well as Harris vs. Ignatius in a heavyweight humdinger, that has bad intentions written all over it!"
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Murad Khalidov KOs Sergey Kuzmin in heavyweight war |
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Murad Khalidov KO7 Sergey Kuzmin... Russian heavyweights Sergey Kuzmin and little-known Murad Khalidov staged a rockem-sockem-robots fight on an IBA pro show in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Khalidov scored the upset with a brutal seventh-round knockout. The winner is listed as 11-0 with no traditional boxing fights since 2014, but he has stayed active in bare knuckle and Russian "cage boxing" fights that are difficult to verify. The win over Kuzmin puts Khalidov in good company. Now 20-3 including the World Series of Boxing, Kuzmin's prior losses were to Michael Hunter, Martin Bakole and Filip Hrgovic (World Series of Boxing) and those were all by decision.
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Murad Khalidov KOs Sergey Kuzmin in heavyweight war
Murad Khalidov KO7 Sergey Kuzmin... Russian heavyweights Sergey Kuzmin and little-known Murad Khalidov staged a rockem-sockem-robots fight on an IBA pro show in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Khalidov scored the upset with a brutal seventh-round knockout. The winner is listed as 11-0 with no traditional boxing fights since 2014, but he has stayed active in bare knuckle and Russian "cage boxing" fights that are difficult to verify. The win over Kuzmin puts Khalidov in good company. Now 20-3 including the World Series of Boxing, Kuzmin's prior losses were to Michael Hunter, Martin Bakole and Filip Hrgovic (World Series of Boxing) and those were all by decision.
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Swift Promotions offers 12-fight PPV |
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Swift Promotions has announced a loaded lineup of undercard attractions in support of Danny Garcia’s “Farewell To Brooklyn” on Saturday, October 18th from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The card will stream exclusively through Millions.co pay-per-view broadcast beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT with twelve scheduled attractions featured with purchase of the event. In the co-feature, Nahir Albright will step in against former champion Richard Commey in a ten-round junior welterweight crossroads matchup. (Commey was originally announced to face Ashton Sylve). The action will also feature unbeaten popular Polish heavyweight Damian Knyba taking on Philly fan-favorite Joey Dawejko in an eight-round showdown. Also stepping into the ring is Brooklyn’s Chris “Primetime” Colbert as he returns to fight in his hometown against Argentina’s Blas Ezequiel Caro for an eight-round lightweight affair. Plus, renowned Philly action fighter Gabriel Rosado steps back into action in an eight-round super middleweight matchup taking on veteran Vaughn Alexander. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com. “Make sure you lock in early, because on October 18th Swift Promotions is giving you everything a fight fan could ask for,” said Danny Garcia, CEO of Swift Promotions. “We’ve got big names in this sport taking on tough opponents and the future stars of boxing looking to make a name for themselves on the big stage. I’m gonna close the show in style, but you won’t want to miss anything leading up to the main event. It’s definitely gonna be fireworks in Brooklyn on October 18th.” The pay-per-view event will also see bantamweight Dominique Crowder (18-0, 11 KOs) in a ten-round matchup against Fernando Diaz (16-5-1, 10 KOs), and Ridgewood, N.Y.’s Mathew Gonzalez (15-1-1, 10 KOs) battling Wilfredo Flores (12-5-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight tilt. The lineup continues with Brooklyn’s own Cristian Cangelosi (11-0, 5 KOs) in an eight-round junior middleweight bout against Argentina’s Victoriano Antonio Santillan (13-8-2, 8 KOs); Newark, N.J.’s Keith Colon Rodriguez (7-0, 7 KOs) in a four-round featherweight match against fellow unbeaten David Calabro (5-0, 3 KOs); and Staten Island’s Reshat Mati (15-0, 8 KOs) in an eight-round junior middleweight tilt dueling Ecuador’s Jose Angulo (16-10, 9 KOs). Rounding out the pay-per-view card is unbeaten Washington, D.C.-native Quincey Williams (5-0, 5 KOs) facing Christopher Rodriguez (13-1-1, 11 KOs) in a six-round welterweight attraction and the pro debut of Bronx-native Jahanzeb Rizwan for four rounds of junior middleweight action against Daniel Weber (0-3). Prior to the PPV, two bouts will stream for free featuring the pro debut of Newark’s Zahir Abdus Salaam in a four-round super welterweight fight dueling Ronald Binyard (0-0-1) and Brooklyn’s Elijah Gonzalez (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round super lightweight fight against Jason Chavez (0-1-1). The event will celebrate the fans and arena that have supported Garcia throughout his storied history of delivering memorable moments over the course of his career. Garcia has amassed a 7-2 record throughout his nine fights at Barclays Center, more than any other fighter at the arena. The 29-year-old Albright (17-2, 7 KOs) has ascended to the rank of contender with an impressive winning streak following a close decision loss to top contender Jamaine Ortiz in 2022. After beating the previously undefeated Estivan Falcao, Albright bested U.S. Olympian Carlos Balderas via decision in 2023 before facing former champion Keyshawn Davis in a fight that was originally a narrow majority decision loss before being overturned due to a Davis drug test. Albright followed that up by defeating Davis’ brother Kevin in June, winning a majority decision to capture a regional WBC belt. Originally from Philadelphia and fighting out of New Jersey, Albright put together a 14-fight winning streak following a decision loss in his pro debut. A native of boxing-rich Accra, Ghana who has fought out of New York throughout much of his pro career, Commey (31-5-1, 28 KOs) has faced a who’s-who of top champions including Vasyl Lomachenko, Teofimo Lopez, Robert Easter Jr. and Jose Carlos Ramirez. His to a 135-pound world championship saw him stop the previously unbeaten Alejandro Luna in March 2018 before winning the title with a TKO of Isa Chaniev in February 2019. Commey also owns a 2022 draw against former champion Jose Pedraza and most recently stopped William Jackson in two rounds in August. Representing his native Bydgoszcz, Poland, Knyba (16-0, 10 KOs) will make his Barclays Center debut on October 18th in front of the borough’s passionate Polish boxing fans. Fighting out of nearby New Jersey, Knyba will look for his third win of the year after most recently beating the previously undefeated Marcin Siwy after eight rounds in June. Knyba has continued to work his way up the heavyweight ranks with wins over veterans including Andrzej Wawrzyk, Michael Coffie and Curtis Harper. A fan-favorite heavyweight from Philadelphia, Dawejko (28-13-4, 16 KOs) will return to the ring at Barclays Center for the first time since March 2020 when he challenged top heavyweight Frank Sanchez. Dawejko has taken on a litany of heavyweight champions and contenders including Charles Martin, Bryant Jennings, Stephan Shaw and Richard Torrez Jr., while also owning a draw against Jarrell Miller. Before losing his last two fights, Dawejko had won seven of eight contests between September 2022 and April 2024. A stellar amateur representing Brooklyn, Colbert (17-3, 6 KOs) has also been amongst the boroughs best pros in this recent generation, earning an interim title at 130-pounds in his 14th pro fight as he bested the former champion Jezzrel Corrales. Colbert continued his run at super featherweight by dominating Tugstsogt Nyambayar before eventually running into Hector Luis Garcia and being given his first defeat. He then engaged in a memorable set of showdowns against eventual 140-pound world champion Jose Valenzuela, winning the first fight by decision before dropping the rematch. He’ll return to the ring for his first action since a loss to Omar Salcido in October 2024. Caro (12-8, 5 KOs) has made a career facing tough opposition and most recently defeated Gabriel Morales by decision in October 2024. The 30-year-old Caro had previously handed Morales the first defeat of his career in April 2024, stopping Morales after four rounds. A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Caro’s triumphs over Morales sandwiched an April 2024 loss to the then unbeaten DeMichael Harris. Caro will return to fight in the U.S. for the sixth time on October 18. One of the era’s defining action fighters, Rosado (27-17-1, 16 KOs) made a name for himself by facing a true who’s-who of boxing’s best including Gennadiy Golovkin, Jermell Charlo, Daniel Jacobs, Jaime Munguia and Peter Quillin, to name just a few. Rosado’s 2021 KO of Bektemir Melikuziev was regarded as one of the year’s best knockouts and biggest upsets. He most recently scored a first round knockout of Crispulo Javier Andino in August and will fight at Barclays Center for the first time since challenging Lemieux at the venue in 2014. The brother of former two-division champion Devon, Alexander (19-16-2, 12 KOs) has made his own name in the sport by taking on tough challenges time and time again. The St. Louis-native’s resume includes top names such as Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Christian Mbilli, and also includes victories over Luis Arias and the then-unbeaten Money Powell IV.
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Swift Promotions offers 12-fight PPV
Swift Promotions has announced a loaded lineup of undercard attractions in support of Danny Garcia’s “Farewell To Brooklyn” on Saturday, October 18th from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The card will stream exclusively through Millions.co pay-per-view broadcast beginning at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT with twelve scheduled attractions featured with purchase of the event. In the co-feature, Nahir Albright will step in against former champion Richard Commey in a ten-round junior welterweight crossroads matchup. (Commey was originally announced to face Ashton Sylve). The action will also feature unbeaten popular Polish heavyweight Damian Knyba taking on Philly fan-favorite Joey Dawejko in an eight-round showdown. Also stepping into the ring is Brooklyn’s Chris “Primetime” Colbert as he returns to fight in his hometown against Argentina’s Blas Ezequiel Caro for an eight-round lightweight affair. Plus, renowned Philly action fighter Gabriel Rosado steps back into action in an eight-round super middleweight matchup taking on veteran Vaughn Alexander. Tickets for the live event are on sale now and are available through Ticketmaster.com. “Make sure you lock in early, because on October 18th Swift Promotions is giving you everything a fight fan could ask for,” said Danny Garcia, CEO of Swift Promotions. “We’ve got big names in this sport taking on tough opponents and the future stars of boxing looking to make a name for themselves on the big stage. I’m gonna close the show in style, but you won’t want to miss anything leading up to the main event. It’s definitely gonna be fireworks in Brooklyn on October 18th.” The pay-per-view event will also see bantamweight Dominique Crowder (18-0, 11 KOs) in a ten-round matchup against Fernando Diaz (16-5-1, 10 KOs), and Ridgewood, N.Y.’s Mathew Gonzalez (15-1-1, 10 KOs) battling Wilfredo Flores (12-5-1, 5 KOs) in an eight-round junior welterweight tilt. The lineup continues with Brooklyn’s own Cristian Cangelosi (11-0, 5 KOs) in an eight-round junior middleweight bout against Argentina’s Victoriano Antonio Santillan (13-8-2, 8 KOs); Newark, N.J.’s Keith Colon Rodriguez (7-0, 7 KOs) in a four-round featherweight match against fellow unbeaten David Calabro (5-0, 3 KOs); and Staten Island’s Reshat Mati (15-0, 8 KOs) in an eight-round junior middleweight tilt dueling Ecuador’s Jose Angulo (16-10, 9 KOs). Rounding out the pay-per-view card is unbeaten Washington, D.C.-native Quincey Williams (5-0, 5 KOs) facing Christopher Rodriguez (13-1-1, 11 KOs) in a six-round welterweight attraction and the pro debut of Bronx-native Jahanzeb Rizwan for four rounds of junior middleweight action against Daniel Weber (0-3). Prior to the PPV, two bouts will stream for free featuring the pro debut of Newark’s Zahir Abdus Salaam in a four-round super welterweight fight dueling Ronald Binyard (0-0-1) and Brooklyn’s Elijah Gonzalez (2-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round super lightweight fight against Jason Chavez (0-1-1). The event will celebrate the fans and arena that have supported Garcia throughout his storied history of delivering memorable moments over the course of his career. Garcia has amassed a 7-2 record throughout his nine fights at Barclays Center, more than any other fighter at the arena. The 29-year-old Albright (17-2, 7 KOs) has ascended to the rank of contender with an impressive winning streak following a close decision loss to top contender Jamaine Ortiz in 2022. After beating the previously undefeated Estivan Falcao, Albright bested U.S. Olympian Carlos Balderas via decision in 2023 before facing former champion Keyshawn Davis in a fight that was originally a narrow majority decision loss before being overturned due to a Davis drug test. Albright followed that up by defeating Davis’ brother Kevin in June, winning a majority decision to capture a regional WBC belt. Originally from Philadelphia and fighting out of New Jersey, Albright put together a 14-fight winning streak following a decision loss in his pro debut. A native of boxing-rich Accra, Ghana who has fought out of New York throughout much of his pro career, Commey (31-5-1, 28 KOs) has faced a who’s-who of top champions including Vasyl Lomachenko, Teofimo Lopez, Robert Easter Jr. and Jose Carlos Ramirez. His to a 135-pound world championship saw him stop the previously unbeaten Alejandro Luna in March 2018 before winning the title with a TKO of Isa Chaniev in February 2019. Commey also owns a 2022 draw against former champion Jose Pedraza and most recently stopped William Jackson in two rounds in August. Representing his native Bydgoszcz, Poland, Knyba (16-0, 10 KOs) will make his Barclays Center debut on October 18th in front of the borough’s passionate Polish boxing fans. Fighting out of nearby New Jersey, Knyba will look for his third win of the year after most recently beating the previously undefeated Marcin Siwy after eight rounds in June. Knyba has continued to work his way up the heavyweight ranks with wins over veterans including Andrzej Wawrzyk, Michael Coffie and Curtis Harper. A fan-favorite heavyweight from Philadelphia, Dawejko (28-13-4, 16 KOs) will return to the ring at Barclays Center for the first time since March 2020 when he challenged top heavyweight Frank Sanchez. Dawejko has taken on a litany of heavyweight champions and contenders including Charles Martin, Bryant Jennings, Stephan Shaw and Richard Torrez Jr., while also owning a draw against Jarrell Miller. Before losing his last two fights, Dawejko had won seven of eight contests between September 2022 and April 2024. A stellar amateur representing Brooklyn, Colbert (17-3, 6 KOs) has also been amongst the boroughs best pros in this recent generation, earning an interim title at 130-pounds in his 14th pro fight as he bested the former champion Jezzrel Corrales. Colbert continued his run at super featherweight by dominating Tugstsogt Nyambayar before eventually running into Hector Luis Garcia and being given his first defeat. He then engaged in a memorable set of showdowns against eventual 140-pound world champion Jose Valenzuela, winning the first fight by decision before dropping the rematch. He’ll return to the ring for his first action since a loss to Omar Salcido in October 2024. Caro (12-8, 5 KOs) has made a career facing tough opposition and most recently defeated Gabriel Morales by decision in October 2024. The 30-year-old Caro had previously handed Morales the first defeat of his career in April 2024, stopping Morales after four rounds. A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, Caro’s triumphs over Morales sandwiched an April 2024 loss to the then unbeaten DeMichael Harris. Caro will return to fight in the U.S. for the sixth time on October 18. One of the era’s defining action fighters, Rosado (27-17-1, 16 KOs) made a name for himself by facing a true who’s-who of boxing’s best including Gennadiy Golovkin, Jermell Charlo, Daniel Jacobs, Jaime Munguia and Peter Quillin, to name just a few. Rosado’s 2021 KO of Bektemir Melikuziev was regarded as one of the year’s best knockouts and biggest upsets. He most recently scored a first round knockout of Crispulo Javier Andino in August and will fight at Barclays Center for the first time since challenging Lemieux at the venue in 2014. The brother of former two-division champion Devon, Alexander (19-16-2, 12 KOs) has made his own name in the sport by taking on tough challenges time and time again. The St. Louis-native’s resume includes top names such as Sergiy Derevyanchenko and Christian Mbilli, and also includes victories over Luis Arias and the then-unbeaten Money Powell IV.
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Matchroom signs Ben Whitaker |
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Ex-British Olympian Ben Whittaker has joined Matchroom Boxing by signing a long-term promotional deal. The Tokyo Games hero has officially put pen to paper and will be fighting exclusively on the global home of boxing, DAZN. Whittaker, unbeaten with a record of 9-0-1, 6 KOs, will be officially unveiled by Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing at a London press conference on Friday, October 17th. Trained by ex-champion Andy Lee, the exciting Midlands light heavyweight is a 2021 Olympic silver medalist. “Ben Whittaker and Matchroom Boxing? It sounds very good – it’s got a nice ring to it,” said Whittaker, speaking to Matchroom Boxing. "Of course, I came very close to signing before. But I’m here now, and that’s the main thing. Whitaker continued, “I think things happen for a reason. I’m at the right stage in my career now to pick the right platform and go for the right fights. So this move just made sense. I’ve only had ten fights so far – and there have been a few ups and downs in those. But I’m lucky that the experience I have so far will take me far in my career. From the amateurs to Olympic medals to professional wins, I’m ready for the next step and I truly feel like this is a fresh start. I can’t wait to embark on this new chapter. I have a great team behind me, with Andy Lee in my corner, and I am really excited to make my debut with Matchroom Boxing. I first met Eddie as an amateur when I was training in Sheffield and AJ was there in the gym. We always knew this time would come and I’m very happy that this moment has finally arrived to work together. I’m grateful to Eddie and Frank Smith. All my family have known this is where I always wanted to be. It had to be the right time, but we’re here now, I know all the team here – they are very professional – and I honestly can’t wait to get started. “I remember being shown around [at Matchroom HQ] during Covid at Fight Camp and Eddie said then he wanted to make me a star and make me a champion. It didn’t quite pan out then but we’re here now, with a better haircut than I had back then, and as a better version of me. The plan now remains as what it was back then. Of course, my popularity has grown and my profile has got bigger. But I think with Eddie [Hearn] and Matchroom Boxing, I will become even more of a household name and one day become a world champion. “I’m ranked well with both the IBF and WBC, so that was another reason why I wanted to come on board with Matchroom because I believe they will help navigate my path towards winning those belts at the right time. And that’s what I’m here for.” Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn has described Whittaker as one his most exciting signings of all-time and is ready to help propel him to superstardom. “He is phenomenal. This is the greatest signing to make in Boxing today. Ben Whittaker is a generational talent and we are ready to take his career to a whole new level,” said Hearn. "This long-term deal will propel Ben to global superstardom, solidifying his reputation as a household name and steering him towards future World Titles. He will be No.1. He has the world at his feet and I am beyond excited to finally be promoting this great, young man.” Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith has heralded Whittaker’s addition to his world class stable as a ‘game changer’ and insists future glory awaits the popular 28-year-old fighter. Smith said: “This is a truly satisfying signing for Matchroom Boxing. It’s a game changer and I couldn’t be happier. I have no doubt that Ben will become a World Champion. And we will do everything in our powers to promote him in the way he deserves – and the way the UK deserves too. He is a future legend of British boxing.”
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Matchroom signs Ben Whitaker
Ex-British Olympian Ben Whittaker has joined Matchroom Boxing by signing a long-term promotional deal. The Tokyo Games hero has officially put pen to paper and will be fighting exclusively on the global home of boxing, DAZN. Whittaker, unbeaten with a record of 9-0-1, 6 KOs, will be officially unveiled by Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing at a London press conference on Friday, October 17th. Trained by ex-champion Andy Lee, the exciting Midlands light heavyweight is a 2021 Olympic silver medalist. “Ben Whittaker and Matchroom Boxing? It sounds very good – it’s got a nice ring to it,” said Whittaker, speaking to Matchroom Boxing. "Of course, I came very close to signing before. But I’m here now, and that’s the main thing. Whitaker continued, “I think things happen for a reason. I’m at the right stage in my career now to pick the right platform and go for the right fights. So this move just made sense. I’ve only had ten fights so far – and there have been a few ups and downs in those. But I’m lucky that the experience I have so far will take me far in my career. From the amateurs to Olympic medals to professional wins, I’m ready for the next step and I truly feel like this is a fresh start. I can’t wait to embark on this new chapter. I have a great team behind me, with Andy Lee in my corner, and I am really excited to make my debut with Matchroom Boxing. I first met Eddie as an amateur when I was training in Sheffield and AJ was there in the gym. We always knew this time would come and I’m very happy that this moment has finally arrived to work together. I’m grateful to Eddie and Frank Smith. All my family have known this is where I always wanted to be. It had to be the right time, but we’re here now, I know all the team here – they are very professional – and I honestly can’t wait to get started. “I remember being shown around [at Matchroom HQ] during Covid at Fight Camp and Eddie said then he wanted to make me a star and make me a champion. It didn’t quite pan out then but we’re here now, with a better haircut than I had back then, and as a better version of me. The plan now remains as what it was back then. Of course, my popularity has grown and my profile has got bigger. But I think with Eddie [Hearn] and Matchroom Boxing, I will become even more of a household name and one day become a world champion. “I’m ranked well with both the IBF and WBC, so that was another reason why I wanted to come on board with Matchroom because I believe they will help navigate my path towards winning those belts at the right time. And that’s what I’m here for.” Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn has described Whittaker as one his most exciting signings of all-time and is ready to help propel him to superstardom. “He is phenomenal. This is the greatest signing to make in Boxing today. Ben Whittaker is a generational talent and we are ready to take his career to a whole new level,” said Hearn. "This long-term deal will propel Ben to global superstardom, solidifying his reputation as a household name and steering him towards future World Titles. He will be No.1. He has the world at his feet and I am beyond excited to finally be promoting this great, young man.” Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith has heralded Whittaker’s addition to his world class stable as a ‘game changer’ and insists future glory awaits the popular 28-year-old fighter. Smith said: “This is a truly satisfying signing for Matchroom Boxing. It’s a game changer and I couldn’t be happier. I have no doubt that Ben will become a World Champion. And we will do everything in our powers to promote him in the way he deserves – and the way the UK deserves too. He is a future legend of British boxing.”
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Watch: Cordero beats Fierro on DQ for kicking |
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In Tijuana, Saturday's fight between Ángel Fierro and Abraham Cordero was suspended after Fierro lost control of himself. In a fit of rage, Fierro violated boxing rules by kicking Cordero in the left leg, resulting in a disqualification. The disqualification marked Fierro's return to the ring after a loss to Isaac Cruz in January. (A rematch was booked for July but Fierro missed weight and the fight was called off). Fierro's return last weekend was accompanied by another controversy. Fighting in Fierro's hometown, Cordero attempted to impose his style in round two with calculated attacks from medium and long range. Fierro displayed effective defensive skills and, at times, managed to corner Cordero against the ropes, generating additional pressure. However, the tension exploded in the third round. Cordero began to dominate the fight, and Fierro showed signs of impatience. They screamed at each other and threw punches over the intervening referee, who tried to calm them down and demand a fair fight. Before the referee could regain control, Cordero landed a direct punch to Fierro's face, which clearly angered the Tijuana native. Fierro sidestepped the referee and lunged at Cordero, immediately kicking him. Cornermen entered the ring, and the eventual verdict was a win via disqualification for Cordero (16-6-2). Fierro is now 23-4-2 with two straight losses.
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Watch: Cordero beats Fierro on DQ for kicking
In Tijuana, Saturday's fight between Ángel Fierro and Abraham Cordero was suspended after Fierro lost control of himself. In a fit of rage, Fierro violated boxing rules by kicking Cordero in the left leg, resulting in a disqualification. The disqualification marked Fierro's return to the ring after a loss to Isaac Cruz in January. (A rematch was booked for July but Fierro missed weight and the fight was called off). Fierro's return last weekend was accompanied by another controversy. Fighting in Fierro's hometown, Cordero attempted to impose his style in round two with calculated attacks from medium and long range. Fierro displayed effective defensive skills and, at times, managed to corner Cordero against the ropes, generating additional pressure. However, the tension exploded in the third round. Cordero began to dominate the fight, and Fierro showed signs of impatience. They screamed at each other and threw punches over the intervening referee, who tried to calm them down and demand a fair fight. Before the referee could regain control, Cordero landed a direct punch to Fierro's face, which clearly angered the Tijuana native. Fierro sidestepped the referee and lunged at Cordero, immediately kicking him. Cornermen entered the ring, and the eventual verdict was a win via disqualification for Cordero (16-6-2). Fierro is now 23-4-2 with two straight losses.
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BKFC 82 results from New Jersey |
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The BKFC King and Queen of Violence were crowned Saturday when BKFC made its New Jersey premiere with BKFC 82 at Prudential Center in Newark. In Saturday’s main event, “Platinum” Mike Perry defended his BKFC King of Violence Championship with a dominant showing over previously undefeated Jeremy “Lil Heathen” Stephens. Perry logged six knockdowns — including three in the fifth round — to get a TKO stoppage with 25 seconds left in the fight. The Orlando, Florida product Perry is now 6-0 on the strength of four straight stoppages in BKFC's squared circle. Perry and ex-UFC champion Conor McGregor (now a part owner of BKFC) appeared to bury the hatchet on their longstanding feud in the aftermath of Perry’s victory. “That was an incredible representation of bare knuckle fighting, ladies and gentlemen,” McGregor said while sharing the spotlight with Perry, adding, “I have respect for you, and I’d love to (fight) you one day for sure. Congratulations to you, your team and your family. I’ve got a lot of respect for who you are and what you’re about.” BKFC flyweight champion Christine “Misfit” Ferea, thus far the most accomplished female fighter to step into the BKFC squared circle, stopped the previously unbeaten BKFC featherweight champion Jessica “The Black Widow” Borga in their clash for the inaugural BKFC Queen of Violence Championship. Ferea and Borga exchanged knockdowns in the opening frame. Ferea picked herself up off the canvas and rallied for the knockout 26 seconds into the fourth round. She is now 11-1 on the strength of nine straight victories — the longest winning streak that a female fighter has ever enjoyed with BKFC. Ferea is also first all time amongst female fighters for victories as well as finishes (eight). Borga, who represents Lakeland, FL, is now 3-1 in her BKFC career. ADDITIONAL RESULTS Jimmie “El Terror” Rivera returned to the win column with a third-round TKO over Timmy Mason. Rivera had to pick himself up off the canvas and dropped Mason three times before their bout was stopped 29 seconds into the third round. Mason, who hails from Helena, MT, is now 3-3 in his bare knuckle fighting career. Rivera, who serves as a police officer in New York City, appeared to announce his retirement from combat sports in his post-fight interview — with the only exception being a matchup with fellow combat sports legend Frankie “The Answer” Edgar, who had to withdraw from their fight earlier this week. “This will be my last fight. There’s only one fight that matters right now, there’s only one fight that will bring me out of retirement. Frankie and I have a lot of history, and I really want that fight. Out of love and respect, maybe we can do it for the fans.” Former MMA standout Oluwale “The Holy War Angel” Bamgbose won his bare knuckle fighting debut, stopping Karl Roberson in a cruiserweight matchup of former UFC fighters. Bamgbose picked himself up off the canvas and logged three knockdowns in his hotly anticipated premiere, leading to the TKO stoppage 58 seconds into round two. Bamgbose represents New York City and Nigeria. Roberson hails from Freehold, NJ. On just one week’s notice, Elmira, NY’s Quentin “QG” Gaskins sent Phil “The Hitman” Caracappa to the canvas three times en route to the TKO stoppage in the opening round of their featherweight bout. The fight was stopped with seven seconds left in the first round. Gaskins is now 2-1, with both of his wins coming by first-round finish. Representing Freehold, NJ, Caracappa is now 1-1 with BKFC. Atlantic City, NJ’s Jeff Lentz floored Elijah “The Buffalo Soldier” Harris three times in the opening round of their lightweight clash, paving the way to a doctor stoppage TKO after two minutes of fighting. Previously a high-level MMA fighter, Lentz is now 1-0 with BKFC, while the previously unbeaten Shippenburg, PA product Harris now 2-1 under the BKFC banner. Ramsey, NJ lightweight Mike “The Lone Wolf” Trizano needed just 20 seconds to knock out JC “Corazon” Deleon. Trizano, a UFC veteran, is now 2-0 with back-to-back, first-round KOs in his BKFC career. Deleon, who represents Fort Worth, TX, was 2-0 with a pair of stoppage victories entering fight night. Middle Island, NY heavyweight Pat Carroll smashed his way to 2-0 with a second-round TKO over Aleem “The Hammer” Whitfield. Carroll logged a pair of knockdowns to the finish 25 seconds into the second stanza. Both of his victories have come by stoppage. Whitfield, who represents Geneva, NY, was making his BKFC debut after racking up a 9-1 record as a professional gloved boxer. In a fight that featured the first double knockdown in BKFC history, Jmani Oliver of Freehold, NJ was victorious in his BKFC debut, knocking down Irakli Ghvinjilia four times en route to a unanimous decision in their lightweight battle. Although Oliver had to pick himself up off the canvas twice, all three judges scored the fight in his favor (48-45, 48-44, 47-45). The Georgian-born Brooklyn, NY fighter Ghvinjilia was also making his BKFC debut. Long Branch, NJ’s Justin Clarke sent Ishiah “The Hill Country Strangler” Carson to the canvas twice in their five-round featherweight matchup. All three judges agreed on the 50-43 verdict for Clarke (1-0). Carson, who hails from Marble Falls, TX, is now 1-3 in his BKFC career.
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BKFC 82 results from New Jersey
The BKFC King and Queen of Violence were crowned Saturday when BKFC made its New Jersey premiere with BKFC 82 at Prudential Center in Newark. In Saturday’s main event, “Platinum” Mike Perry defended his BKFC King of Violence Championship with a dominant showing over previously undefeated Jeremy “Lil Heathen” Stephens. Perry logged six knockdowns — including three in the fifth round — to get a TKO stoppage with 25 seconds left in the fight. The Orlando, Florida product Perry is now 6-0 on the strength of four straight stoppages in BKFC's squared circle. Perry and ex-UFC champion Conor McGregor (now a part owner of BKFC) appeared to bury the hatchet on their longstanding feud in the aftermath of Perry’s victory. “That was an incredible representation of bare knuckle fighting, ladies and gentlemen,” McGregor said while sharing the spotlight with Perry, adding, “I have respect for you, and I’d love to (fight) you one day for sure. Congratulations to you, your team and your family. I’ve got a lot of respect for who you are and what you’re about.” BKFC flyweight champion Christine “Misfit” Ferea, thus far the most accomplished female fighter to step into the BKFC squared circle, stopped the previously unbeaten BKFC featherweight champion Jessica “The Black Widow” Borga in their clash for the inaugural BKFC Queen of Violence Championship. Ferea and Borga exchanged knockdowns in the opening frame. Ferea picked herself up off the canvas and rallied for the knockout 26 seconds into the fourth round. She is now 11-1 on the strength of nine straight victories — the longest winning streak that a female fighter has ever enjoyed with BKFC. Ferea is also first all time amongst female fighters for victories as well as finishes (eight). Borga, who represents Lakeland, FL, is now 3-1 in her BKFC career. ADDITIONAL RESULTS Jimmie “El Terror” Rivera returned to the win column with a third-round TKO over Timmy Mason. Rivera had to pick himself up off the canvas and dropped Mason three times before their bout was stopped 29 seconds into the third round. Mason, who hails from Helena, MT, is now 3-3 in his bare knuckle fighting career. Rivera, who serves as a police officer in New York City, appeared to announce his retirement from combat sports in his post-fight interview — with the only exception being a matchup with fellow combat sports legend Frankie “The Answer” Edgar, who had to withdraw from their fight earlier this week. “This will be my last fight. There’s only one fight that matters right now, there’s only one fight that will bring me out of retirement. Frankie and I have a lot of history, and I really want that fight. Out of love and respect, maybe we can do it for the fans.” Former MMA standout Oluwale “The Holy War Angel” Bamgbose won his bare knuckle fighting debut, stopping Karl Roberson in a cruiserweight matchup of former UFC fighters. Bamgbose picked himself up off the canvas and logged three knockdowns in his hotly anticipated premiere, leading to the TKO stoppage 58 seconds into round two. Bamgbose represents New York City and Nigeria. Roberson hails from Freehold, NJ. On just one week’s notice, Elmira, NY’s Quentin “QG” Gaskins sent Phil “The Hitman” Caracappa to the canvas three times en route to the TKO stoppage in the opening round of their featherweight bout. The fight was stopped with seven seconds left in the first round. Gaskins is now 2-1, with both of his wins coming by first-round finish. Representing Freehold, NJ, Caracappa is now 1-1 with BKFC. Atlantic City, NJ’s Jeff Lentz floored Elijah “The Buffalo Soldier” Harris three times in the opening round of their lightweight clash, paving the way to a doctor stoppage TKO after two minutes of fighting. Previously a high-level MMA fighter, Lentz is now 1-0 with BKFC, while the previously unbeaten Shippenburg, PA product Harris now 2-1 under the BKFC banner. Ramsey, NJ lightweight Mike “The Lone Wolf” Trizano needed just 20 seconds to knock out JC “Corazon” Deleon. Trizano, a UFC veteran, is now 2-0 with back-to-back, first-round KOs in his BKFC career. Deleon, who represents Fort Worth, TX, was 2-0 with a pair of stoppage victories entering fight night. Middle Island, NY heavyweight Pat Carroll smashed his way to 2-0 with a second-round TKO over Aleem “The Hammer” Whitfield. Carroll logged a pair of knockdowns to the finish 25 seconds into the second stanza. Both of his victories have come by stoppage. Whitfield, who represents Geneva, NY, was making his BKFC debut after racking up a 9-1 record as a professional gloved boxer. In a fight that featured the first double knockdown in BKFC history, Jmani Oliver of Freehold, NJ was victorious in his BKFC debut, knocking down Irakli Ghvinjilia four times en route to a unanimous decision in their lightweight battle. Although Oliver had to pick himself up off the canvas twice, all three judges scored the fight in his favor (48-45, 48-44, 47-45). The Georgian-born Brooklyn, NY fighter Ghvinjilia was also making his BKFC debut. Long Branch, NJ’s Justin Clarke sent Ishiah “The Hill Country Strangler” Carson to the canvas twice in their five-round featherweight matchup. All three judges agreed on the 50-43 verdict for Clarke (1-0). Carson, who hails from Marble Falls, TX, is now 1-3 in his BKFC career.
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IBF orders purse bid for Muratalla vs. Cruz |
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Last week, the IBF ordered its lightweight champion Raymond Muratalla and IBF mandatory contender Andy Cruz to begin negotiations for Muratalla's mandatory defense of the IBF lightweight title. On October 3rd, Tom Dallas, on behalf of Cruz and Matchroom Boxing, advised that they would like to immediately proceed to a purse bid pursuant to IBF Rule 10.A. Therefore, the IBF has scheduled a purse bid for Tuesday, October 16th at 12 noon. In June, the IBF received official notification on June 5th that Muratalla's predecessor, Vasily Lomachenko, was retiring, thereby relinquishing his IBF lightweight title. Muratalla, who at the time was the IBF interim lightweight champion was then elevated to full IBF lightweight world champion status. Later that month, Andy Cruz defeated Hironori Mishiro to become the mandatory challenger. From Cuba, Cruz is listed as 6-0, but Boxingtalk recognizes his record as 22-0 due to paid bouts in the World Series of Boxing.
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IBF orders purse bid for Muratalla vs. Cruz
Last week, the IBF ordered its lightweight champion Raymond Muratalla and IBF mandatory contender Andy Cruz to begin negotiations for Muratalla's mandatory defense of the IBF lightweight title. On October 3rd, Tom Dallas, on behalf of Cruz and Matchroom Boxing, advised that they would like to immediately proceed to a purse bid pursuant to IBF Rule 10.A. Therefore, the IBF has scheduled a purse bid for Tuesday, October 16th at 12 noon. In June, the IBF received official notification on June 5th that Muratalla's predecessor, Vasily Lomachenko, was retiring, thereby relinquishing his IBF lightweight title. Muratalla, who at the time was the IBF interim lightweight champion was then elevated to full IBF lightweight world champion status. Later that month, Andy Cruz defeated Hironori Mishiro to become the mandatory challenger. From Cuba, Cruz is listed as 6-0, but Boxingtalk recognizes his record as 22-0 due to paid bouts in the World Series of Boxing.
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Boxing at a Crossroads: Part seven of seven |
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The Road to 2030: Boxing’s crossroads is not just about the present moment — it is about where the sport will stand by the end of this decade. The choices made in the next few years will decide whether boxing thrives under a new model, reforms its fractured past, or fades into further irrelevance.
2026–2027: Parallel Systems... Expect a parallel system — Dana White, Turki Alalshikh and TKO’s Zuffa/Saudi league-backed cards coexisting with traditional promoter/sanctioning body events. Fighters will increasingly be forced to choose sides between league stability and traditional independence.
2028–2030: The Tipping Point... If the new league model gains enough star power — such as a few undisputed champions defecting or major prospects signing early — it could become the dominant model. This would push sanctioning bodies into reform, consolidation, or outright irrelevance.
Fans’ Perspective... In the short term, fans may feel frustrated by the chaos of multiple champions across different systems. But if the league delivers clear storylines, consistent matchmaking, and more frequent fights, audiences will eventually follow.
A Twist of History... It’s worth mentioning that this partnership wasn’t always inevitable. For much of the past year, another league model — one that pointedly left Turki and Dana out — was being floated as TKO’s preferred path. But that project failed to attract the investor capital needed to launch. Turki, once considered too extravagant and dictatorial to be included, forced his way back into the conversation by picking up the checks others wouldn’t. Even White wasn’t seen as a sure bet until TKO, under pressure as a public company to satisfy shareholders, aligned with both men to hedge its risks. Given their history — clashes over events like Canelo vs. Crawford and two alpha personalities vying for dominance — it remains to be seen whether there’s enough space on the throne for co-kings to rule. As the saying goes: too many cooks can spoil the broth.
Bottom Line for 2025–2030... Fighters will face a choice between independence/legacy vs. league stability/exposure. Promoters must adapt quickly — through collaboration or reinvention — or risk being sidelined. Sanctioning bodies face existential pressure: reform governance and streamline belts or fade into symbolism. White and Turki together have a real shot at reshaping boxing’s power map — but legitimacy and fighter rights will remain their biggest tests..
Final Thoughts... If history is a guide, Dana White is still the best gambler in the room. A lifelong risk-taker, he’s shown that even when he loses, he can sleep it off and be ready for war again the next morning. If he treats boxers with the same care he shows the dealers at Caesars Palace, the odds tilt in his favor. But he can’t hedge forever — sooner or later, he’ll have to go all-in: build boxing’s future, or double down on the sideshow of Power Slap.
As for Turki Alalshikh, his empire of spectacle is dazzling, but without matchmaking discipline it risks becoming a sandcastle swept away by the next sandstorm. The real winners, if either man succeeds, will be the fighters who finally command a king’s ransom — and the fans, if Turki invests in undercards where every matchup is debated until the camels come home.
But the biggest losers could be the sanctioning bodies. If they don’t check their egos at the door, unite, and mount a serious lobbying effort against looming Ali Act amendments, they may soon be remembered with boxing’s most somber tribute — a ten-bell salute.
And if the new partnership consolidates its grip? Boxing fans may hear the words that signal a changing of the guard in every championship fight: “…and the new.”
Boxing’s future is on the ropes. Whether it survives, thrives, or collapses depends on whether its power brokers can write a story worthy of its fighters — or whether history repeats, and the sport once again beats itself.
CATCH UP ON PRIOR CHAPTERS:
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Boxing at a Crossroads: Part seven of seven
The Road to 2030: Boxing’s crossroads is not just about the present moment — it is about where the sport will stand by the end of this decade. The choices made in the next few years will decide whether boxing thrives under a new model, reforms its fractured past, or fades into further irrelevance.
2026–2027: Parallel Systems... Expect a parallel system — Dana White, Turki Alalshikh and TKO’s Zuffa/Saudi league-backed cards coexisting with traditional promoter/sanctioning body events. Fighters will increasingly be forced to choose sides between league stability and traditional independence.
2028–2030: The Tipping Point... If the new league model gains enough star power — such as a few undisputed champions defecting or major prospects signing early — it could become the dominant model. This would push sanctioning bodies into reform, consolidation, or outright irrelevance.
Fans’ Perspective... In the short term, fans may feel frustrated by the chaos of multiple champions across different systems. But if the league delivers clear storylines, consistent matchmaking, and more frequent fights, audiences will eventually follow.
A Twist of History... It’s worth mentioning that this partnership wasn’t always inevitable. For much of the past year, another league model — one that pointedly left Turki and Dana out — was being floated as TKO’s preferred path. But that project failed to attract the investor capital needed to launch. Turki, once considered too extravagant and dictatorial to be included, forced his way back into the conversation by picking up the checks others wouldn’t. Even White wasn’t seen as a sure bet until TKO, under pressure as a public company to satisfy shareholders, aligned with both men to hedge its risks. Given their history — clashes over events like Canelo vs. Crawford and two alpha personalities vying for dominance — it remains to be seen whether there’s enough space on the throne for co-kings to rule. As the saying goes: too many cooks can spoil the broth.
Bottom Line for 2025–2030... Fighters will face a choice between independence/legacy vs. league stability/exposure. Promoters must adapt quickly — through collaboration or reinvention — or risk being sidelined. Sanctioning bodies face existential pressure: reform governance and streamline belts or fade into symbolism. White and Turki together have a real shot at reshaping boxing’s power map — but legitimacy and fighter rights will remain their biggest tests..
Final Thoughts... If history is a guide, Dana White is still the best gambler in the room. A lifelong risk-taker, he’s shown that even when he loses, he can sleep it off and be ready for war again the next morning. If he treats boxers with the same care he shows the dealers at Caesars Palace, the odds tilt in his favor. But he can’t hedge forever — sooner or later, he’ll have to go all-in: build boxing’s future, or double down on the sideshow of Power Slap.
As for Turki Alalshikh, his empire of spectacle is dazzling, but without matchmaking discipline it risks becoming a sandcastle swept away by the next sandstorm. The real winners, if either man succeeds, will be the fighters who finally command a king’s ransom — and the fans, if Turki invests in undercards where every matchup is debated until the camels come home.
But the biggest losers could be the sanctioning bodies. If they don’t check their egos at the door, unite, and mount a serious lobbying effort against looming Ali Act amendments, they may soon be remembered with boxing’s most somber tribute — a ten-bell salute.
And if the new partnership consolidates its grip? Boxing fans may hear the words that signal a changing of the guard in every championship fight: “…and the new.”
Boxing’s future is on the ropes. Whether it survives, thrives, or collapses depends on whether its power brokers can write a story worthy of its fighters — or whether history repeats, and the sport once again beats itself.
CATCH UP ON PRIOR CHAPTERS:
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Welcome to Ennis vs. Lima fight week in Philly |
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Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Uisma Lima are set to collide this Saturday night at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, in a WBA junior middleweight title eliminator headlining a Matchroom Boxing card. Ennis, the former two-belt welterweight champion, is moving up in weight — and, as a former titleholder, he’s earned the right to jump straight into a WBA eliminator. The 28-year old will be fighting in his hometown and has been a dominant fighter in recent years, coming off a brutal demolition of Eimantas Stanionis in a title unification bout last April. Ennis has scored knockouts in three of his last four outings and now enters a new division looking to continue his reign of destruction and earn a shot at the title currently held by Abass Baraou. Lima, age 32, is from Angola. A rugged, determined contender, Lima has shown the grit and power in his career. He’s coming off a big knockout win over Shervantaigh Koopman in May and knows this is the biggest opportunity of his career — one that could launch him onto the world stage if he pulls off the upset. Promotional events for the card will continue throughout the week, with the official weigh-in scheduled for Friday. Ennis enters the bout undefeated at 34-0 (30 KOs), while Lima brings a record of 14-1 (10 KOs) into the biggest fight of his life.
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Welcome to Ennis vs. Lima fight week in Philly
Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Uisma Lima are set to collide this Saturday night at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, in a WBA junior middleweight title eliminator headlining a Matchroom Boxing card. Ennis, the former two-belt welterweight champion, is moving up in weight — and, as a former titleholder, he’s earned the right to jump straight into a WBA eliminator. The 28-year old will be fighting in his hometown and has been a dominant fighter in recent years, coming off a brutal demolition of Eimantas Stanionis in a title unification bout last April. Ennis has scored knockouts in three of his last four outings and now enters a new division looking to continue his reign of destruction and earn a shot at the title currently held by Abass Baraou. Lima, age 32, is from Angola. A rugged, determined contender, Lima has shown the grit and power in his career. He’s coming off a big knockout win over Shervantaigh Koopman in May and knows this is the biggest opportunity of his career — one that could launch him onto the world stage if he pulls off the upset. Promotional events for the card will continue throughout the week, with the official weigh-in scheduled for Friday. Ennis enters the bout undefeated at 34-0 (30 KOs), while Lima brings a record of 14-1 (10 KOs) into the biggest fight of his life.
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Matchroom convinces Saudis to sponsor darts, snooker |
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Matchroom Sport and Riyadh Season announced a new collaboration that will cover a host of huge events across Matchroom Boxing, Professional Darts Corporation, and World Snooker. The landmark deal ensures Riyadh Season continues to play a key and visible role in some big nights ahead for Matchroom Sport – with a multi-channel partnership and the Riyadh Season brand featuring prominently across Matchroom Sport events. On November 22nd, in Riyadh, pound-for-pound superstar Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez fights Fernando “Puma” Martinez for the unified 115-pound titles as part of The Ring IV fight card, ‘Night of Champions’, headlined by Anthony Yarde and WBC 175-pound light heavyweight champion David Benavidez.
Riyadh Season launched in 2019 and achieved a major milestone during its most recent Season when the number of visitors exceeded 20 million for the first time. Riyadh Season’s impact has also seen boxing and a number of sports – including snooker – transformed by delivering some of the most memorable nights in the modern era.
In its partnership with Matchroom Boxing, it has already brought some of the sport’s most exciting showdowns to Riyadh, as well as across the globe, including in the UK, USA and Mexico, attracting high-level international attention and top-tier talent such as Anthony Joshua, Dmitry Bivol, Jai Opetaia, and Conor Benn, who faces bitter rival Chris Eubank Jr in their eagerly awaited rematch ‘Unfinished Business’ on Saturday, November 15th at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London – screened exclusively worldwide on DAZN.
In the same week as the November 22nd show, snooker’s all-time greats – such as Ronnie O’Sullivan and defending champion Mark Allen – return to Saudi Arabia from November 19 to 21 for the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, delivered by WST and broadcast in the UK on TNT Sports. The tournament is best known for the unique gold ball, worth 20 points and can only be potted at the end of a maximum 147, for an unprecedented ‘super-maximum’ of 167 – and $1million, the snooker’s biggest ever bonus prize.
Darts’ biggest names will also join this year’s Riyadh Season for the first ever Saudi Arabia Darts Masters in January 2026 – part of the PDC’s 2026 World Series of Darts global roadshow, which will see star-studded events taking place across four continents, all available to watch in the UK via ITV Sport. The inaugural event will take place on January 19 and 20, giving local fans the chance to be part of darts’ unique atmosphere for the first time ever, while millions of fans will be tuning in around the world through the PDC’s global network of broadcast partners.
The sixth edition of Riyadh Season officially launches this month, with standout events including October’s Six Kings Slam, where six of men’s tennis’ leading players including Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcarez and Novak Djokovic will compete, with more boxing to come in December involving Japan’s biggest fighters in ‘Ring V: Night of the Samurai’, featuring Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani. Riyadh Season will also make history in January 2026 when WWE’s 39th annual Royal Rumble is held in Riyadh – the first time the landmark event will be staged outside of North America, with cultural phenomenon Wrestlemania 43 set to follow in 2027.
His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) said: “Riyadh Season’s reputation is built on being connected to events that carry huge and global interest and Matchroom Sport has been an important part of many of these occasions with us so far. We look forward to continuing our relationship and building on what we have already developed together to deliver even more ground-breaking and exciting tournaments and events in the future.”
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn added: “We are delighted to enter an exciting partnership with Riyadh Season as our special relationship continues to thrive. And we’re just getting started. We are incredibly grateful to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for his continued investment in Boxing – and now into Snooker and Darts. The future is bright and we are hugely excited to deliver many more unforgettable nights for sports fans all over the world together in partnership with Riyadh Season.”
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Matchroom convinces Saudis to sponsor darts, snooker
Matchroom Sport and Riyadh Season announced a new collaboration that will cover a host of huge events across Matchroom Boxing, Professional Darts Corporation, and World Snooker. The landmark deal ensures Riyadh Season continues to play a key and visible role in some big nights ahead for Matchroom Sport – with a multi-channel partnership and the Riyadh Season brand featuring prominently across Matchroom Sport events. On November 22nd, in Riyadh, pound-for-pound superstar Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez fights Fernando “Puma” Martinez for the unified 115-pound titles as part of The Ring IV fight card, ‘Night of Champions’, headlined by Anthony Yarde and WBC 175-pound light heavyweight champion David Benavidez.
Riyadh Season launched in 2019 and achieved a major milestone during its most recent Season when the number of visitors exceeded 20 million for the first time. Riyadh Season’s impact has also seen boxing and a number of sports – including snooker – transformed by delivering some of the most memorable nights in the modern era.
In its partnership with Matchroom Boxing, it has already brought some of the sport’s most exciting showdowns to Riyadh, as well as across the globe, including in the UK, USA and Mexico, attracting high-level international attention and top-tier talent such as Anthony Joshua, Dmitry Bivol, Jai Opetaia, and Conor Benn, who faces bitter rival Chris Eubank Jr in their eagerly awaited rematch ‘Unfinished Business’ on Saturday, November 15th at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London – screened exclusively worldwide on DAZN.
In the same week as the November 22nd show, snooker’s all-time greats – such as Ronnie O’Sullivan and defending champion Mark Allen – return to Saudi Arabia from November 19 to 21 for the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, delivered by WST and broadcast in the UK on TNT Sports. The tournament is best known for the unique gold ball, worth 20 points and can only be potted at the end of a maximum 147, for an unprecedented ‘super-maximum’ of 167 – and $1million, the snooker’s biggest ever bonus prize.
Darts’ biggest names will also join this year’s Riyadh Season for the first ever Saudi Arabia Darts Masters in January 2026 – part of the PDC’s 2026 World Series of Darts global roadshow, which will see star-studded events taking place across four continents, all available to watch in the UK via ITV Sport. The inaugural event will take place on January 19 and 20, giving local fans the chance to be part of darts’ unique atmosphere for the first time ever, while millions of fans will be tuning in around the world through the PDC’s global network of broadcast partners.
The sixth edition of Riyadh Season officially launches this month, with standout events including October’s Six Kings Slam, where six of men’s tennis’ leading players including Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcarez and Novak Djokovic will compete, with more boxing to come in December involving Japan’s biggest fighters in ‘Ring V: Night of the Samurai’, featuring Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani. Riyadh Season will also make history in January 2026 when WWE’s 39th annual Royal Rumble is held in Riyadh – the first time the landmark event will be staged outside of North America, with cultural phenomenon Wrestlemania 43 set to follow in 2027.
His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) said: “Riyadh Season’s reputation is built on being connected to events that carry huge and global interest and Matchroom Sport has been an important part of many of these occasions with us so far. We look forward to continuing our relationship and building on what we have already developed together to deliver even more ground-breaking and exciting tournaments and events in the future.”
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn added: “We are delighted to enter an exciting partnership with Riyadh Season as our special relationship continues to thrive. And we’re just getting started. We are incredibly grateful to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh for his continued investment in Boxing – and now into Snooker and Darts. The future is bright and we are hugely excited to deliver many more unforgettable nights for sports fans all over the world together in partnership with Riyadh Season.”
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Introducing junior lightweight Giorgio Visioli |
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British junior lightweight Giorgio Visioli is preparing for the next chapter in his career. This Saturday, on the undercard of Jaron Ennis' super welterweight debut against Uisma Lima, live on DAZN, Visioli will be fighting in the US for the first time in his professional career. In the opposite corner will be American James Wilkins (13-3) who will be looking to spoil what could be a memorable night for 22-year-old from Aldershot. With an 8-0 record, Visioli is being tipped for big things and is the first person to be featured on DAZN's new series Spotlight which focuses on some of boxing's most exciting up and coming names. "For this fight, I’m looking to put a big performance on, especially in front of an American crowd, it’s a big audience," Visioli said. "I’m looking forward to showing my class and putting my name out there."
If Visioli manages to add a ninth victory to his record he has sights set on acquiring titles or even continuing a rivalry with two Americans after recent exchanges on social media. "The goals this year, keep winning, win some titles at the end of the year, English or British title.... Middle of next year maybe look to bigger titles or even big fights. There are links to fights with big American names, there’s Zaquin Moses, there’s Curmel Moton, we’ve had back and forth on socials.It would be a big fight, both of those names for sure."
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Introducing junior lightweight Giorgio Visioli
British junior lightweight Giorgio Visioli is preparing for the next chapter in his career. This Saturday, on the undercard of Jaron Ennis' super welterweight debut against Uisma Lima, live on DAZN, Visioli will be fighting in the US for the first time in his professional career. In the opposite corner will be American James Wilkins (13-3) who will be looking to spoil what could be a memorable night for 22-year-old from Aldershot. With an 8-0 record, Visioli is being tipped for big things and is the first person to be featured on DAZN's new series Spotlight which focuses on some of boxing's most exciting up and coming names. "For this fight, I’m looking to put a big performance on, especially in front of an American crowd, it’s a big audience," Visioli said. "I’m looking forward to showing my class and putting my name out there."
If Visioli manages to add a ninth victory to his record he has sights set on acquiring titles or even continuing a rivalry with two Americans after recent exchanges on social media. "The goals this year, keep winning, win some titles at the end of the year, English or British title.... Middle of next year maybe look to bigger titles or even big fights. There are links to fights with big American names, there’s Zaquin Moses, there’s Curmel Moton, we’ve had back and forth on socials.It would be a big fight, both of those names for sure."
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Braekhus wins 154-pound titles, then retires |
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Cecilia Braekhus W10 Ema Kozin... Fighting in her native Norway, "The First Lady" Cecilia Braekhus made women's boxing history, becoming a two-division champion at age 44. Braekhus took the WBC and WBO titles away from Ema Kozin, age 26, via unanimous decision. After ten rounds, the judges had it 97-93, 96-94, 98-92 in favor of Braekhus, who turned pro 18 years ago and won her first welterweight championship back in 2009. She went on to unify the world welterweight championship and was instrumental in having boxing legalized in Norway. Braekhus said this will be her last fight, and so, she walks away with a record of 39-2-1. The Hall of Fame awaits her. source: verdens gang (Norway)
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Braekhus wins 154-pound titles, then retires
Cecilia Braekhus W10 Ema Kozin... Fighting in her native Norway, "The First Lady" Cecilia Braekhus made women's boxing history, becoming a two-division champion at age 44. Braekhus took the WBC and WBO titles away from Ema Kozin, age 26, via unanimous decision. After ten rounds, the judges had it 97-93, 96-94, 98-92 in favor of Braekhus, who turned pro 18 years ago and won her first welterweight championship back in 2009. She went on to unify the world welterweight championship and was instrumental in having boxing legalized in Norway. Braekhus said this will be her last fight, and so, she walks away with a record of 39-2-1. The Hall of Fame awaits her. source: verdens gang (Norway)
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Lorente keeps European title with road draw vs. Collins |
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Cristobal Lorente D12 Nathaniel Collins... Scotland's Nathaniel Collins’ was held to a draw against reigning European featherweight champion Cristobal Lorente in Glasgow. According to DAZN, the local favorite appeared to control large portions of the contest, but Lorente was relentless throughout and the judges at ringside may have been swayed by the Spaniard's aggressive approach. Collins made a fast start and seemed to be ahead on the cards in the fight's first half as he started to trade more frequently with the tough Spaniard. A memorable round six saw both men exchange huge shots, and it looked like that session was where Lorente drew some confidence from. In the closing stretches, Lorente began to push forward more, but his work in the championship rounds appeared to come a little late as Collins had been in charge during the fight’s early stages. After twelve enjoyable rounds, the judges could not be split as one verdict for each man followed by a 114-114 score meant that the bout was ruled a draw with Lorente keeping his European featherweight title. Victory for Collins was intended to set up a world title fight at some point in 2026, but that dream is on hold for the time being as he will likely have to contend with Lorente again as the demand for a rematch will be there due to how entertaining the fight was.
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Lorente keeps European title with road draw vs. Collins
Cristobal Lorente D12 Nathaniel Collins... Scotland's Nathaniel Collins’ was held to a draw against reigning European featherweight champion Cristobal Lorente in Glasgow. According to DAZN, the local favorite appeared to control large portions of the contest, but Lorente was relentless throughout and the judges at ringside may have been swayed by the Spaniard's aggressive approach. Collins made a fast start and seemed to be ahead on the cards in the fight's first half as he started to trade more frequently with the tough Spaniard. A memorable round six saw both men exchange huge shots, and it looked like that session was where Lorente drew some confidence from. In the closing stretches, Lorente began to push forward more, but his work in the championship rounds appeared to come a little late as Collins had been in charge during the fight’s early stages. After twelve enjoyable rounds, the judges could not be split as one verdict for each man followed by a 114-114 score meant that the bout was ruled a draw with Lorente keeping his European featherweight title. Victory for Collins was intended to set up a world title fight at some point in 2026, but that dream is on hold for the time being as he will likely have to contend with Lorente again as the demand for a rematch will be there due to how entertaining the fight was.
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Danny Garcia's greatest hits in Brooklyn |
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PBC provides this look back at former two-division champion Danny Garcia's finest moments at Brooklyn's Barclays Center ahead of his final appearance there on Saturday, October 18th. Garcia and the Barclays Center are forever linked. From his knockout of a Hall of Famer on opening night to gritty battles against hometown heroes, Garcia turned the venue into his personal proving ground. A proud Philadelphian with Puerto Rican roots, he headlined more fights at the arena than any other boxer, building a legacy defined by big moments, dramatic wins, and unforgettable nights in Brooklyn. On Saturday, October 18th, Garcia (37-4, 21 KOs), will step through the ropes one final time at age 37 against Daniel Gonzalez (22-4-1, 7 KOs). Here is a look back at the five greatest performances Garcia delivered in the Big Apple’s famed venue.
5. Garcia W12 Zab Judah (April 17, 2013): Garcia’s first Barclays main event was as high-stakes as it gets: a title defense against Brooklyn’s own Zab Judah. The atmosphere was electric, and Garcia silenced the local crowd by dropping Judah in the eighth round and controlling much of the action. Judah, a two-division titlist and former undisputed welterweight champion, rallied late but Garcia’s power and composure earned him a unanimous decision.
4. Garcia TKO9 Paul Malignaggi (Aug. 1, 2013): Moving up to welterweight, Garcia faced another Brooklyn favorite in Paul Malignaggi. It was Philly grit versus New York slickness, and Garcia’s relentless pressure proved too much. He wore Malignaggi down with sharp counters and steady body work until the referee called a halt in the ninth round. The win showed that Garcia’s power and skill translated perfectly into a new division.
3. Garcia W12 Ivan Redkach (Jan. 25, 2020): Garcia used his return to Brooklyn as a showcase for his sharp boxing skills. Against the aggressive and trash-talking Ivan Redkach, he controlled the fight with precision punching and ring generalship. While the bout went the full 12 rounds, Garcia dominated throughout, reminding fans why he remained one of the most dangerous contenders at 147 pounds.
2. Garcia W12 Lamont Peterson (April 11, 2015)... In a razor-close chess match, Garcia battled former champion Lamont Peterson. In the later rounds, Peterson rallied strongly, but Garcia’s cleaner, harder punches and early dominance carried the night. The fight ended in a majority decision, but it displayed Garcia’s ability to remain composed under fire and his knack for delivering in tough, high-level matchups.
1. Garcia KO4 Erik Morales (Oct. 20, 2012): Garcia’s defining Barclays moment came on opening night of boxing at the venue. Facing Mexican legend Erik Morales in a rematch, Garcia landed a devastating left hook in the fourth round that sent Morales spinning through the ropes in one of the arena’s most iconic finishes. The knockout not only defended Garcia’s world titles but cemented Barclays Center as his home arena.
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Danny Garcia's greatest hits in Brooklyn
PBC provides this look back at former two-division champion Danny Garcia's finest moments at Brooklyn's Barclays Center ahead of his final appearance there on Saturday, October 18th. Garcia and the Barclays Center are forever linked. From his knockout of a Hall of Famer on opening night to gritty battles against hometown heroes, Garcia turned the venue into his personal proving ground. A proud Philadelphian with Puerto Rican roots, he headlined more fights at the arena than any other boxer, building a legacy defined by big moments, dramatic wins, and unforgettable nights in Brooklyn. On Saturday, October 18th, Garcia (37-4, 21 KOs), will step through the ropes one final time at age 37 against Daniel Gonzalez (22-4-1, 7 KOs). Here is a look back at the five greatest performances Garcia delivered in the Big Apple’s famed venue.
5. Garcia W12 Zab Judah (April 17, 2013): Garcia’s first Barclays main event was as high-stakes as it gets: a title defense against Brooklyn’s own Zab Judah. The atmosphere was electric, and Garcia silenced the local crowd by dropping Judah in the eighth round and controlling much of the action. Judah, a two-division titlist and former undisputed welterweight champion, rallied late but Garcia’s power and composure earned him a unanimous decision.
4. Garcia TKO9 Paul Malignaggi (Aug. 1, 2013): Moving up to welterweight, Garcia faced another Brooklyn favorite in Paul Malignaggi. It was Philly grit versus New York slickness, and Garcia’s relentless pressure proved too much. He wore Malignaggi down with sharp counters and steady body work until the referee called a halt in the ninth round. The win showed that Garcia’s power and skill translated perfectly into a new division.
3. Garcia W12 Ivan Redkach (Jan. 25, 2020): Garcia used his return to Brooklyn as a showcase for his sharp boxing skills. Against the aggressive and trash-talking Ivan Redkach, he controlled the fight with precision punching and ring generalship. While the bout went the full 12 rounds, Garcia dominated throughout, reminding fans why he remained one of the most dangerous contenders at 147 pounds.
2. Garcia W12 Lamont Peterson (April 11, 2015)... In a razor-close chess match, Garcia battled former champion Lamont Peterson. In the later rounds, Peterson rallied strongly, but Garcia’s cleaner, harder punches and early dominance carried the night. The fight ended in a majority decision, but it displayed Garcia’s ability to remain composed under fire and his knack for delivering in tough, high-level matchups.
1. Garcia KO4 Erik Morales (Oct. 20, 2012): Garcia’s defining Barclays moment came on opening night of boxing at the venue. Facing Mexican legend Erik Morales in a rematch, Garcia landed a devastating left hook in the fourth round that sent Morales spinning through the ropes in one of the arena’s most iconic finishes. The knockout not only defended Garcia’s world titles but cemented Barclays Center as his home arena.
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Kozin and Braekhus make weight in Norway |
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In Lillestrom, Norway, both women sailed through the final weigh-in hurdle ahead of their WBC//WBO junior middleweight world title clash. Champion Ema “Princess” Kozin weighed 153.4 pounds, while former world welterweight champion Cecilia “First Lady” Braekhus weighed 153.9. Kozin will make her first title defense this Saturday after a long period of inactivity. She won the vacant title in November 2023, defeating Hannah Rankin. Inactive since then, the champion holds a record of 24-1-1 with 12 KOs.
Born in Colombia but raised in Norway, Braekhus has a long and glorious history. In 2009, she captured the WBC welterweight world title. With a reign lasting until 2020, she became the undisputed champion in 2016 until Jessica McCaskill took her crowns. She is currently the WBC interim champion at 154 pounds.
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Kozin and Braekhus make weight in Norway
In Lillestrom, Norway, both women sailed through the final weigh-in hurdle ahead of their WBC//WBO junior middleweight world title clash. Champion Ema “Princess” Kozin weighed 153.4 pounds, while former world welterweight champion Cecilia “First Lady” Braekhus weighed 153.9. Kozin will make her first title defense this Saturday after a long period of inactivity. She won the vacant title in November 2023, defeating Hannah Rankin. Inactive since then, the champion holds a record of 24-1-1 with 12 KOs.
Born in Colombia but raised in Norway, Braekhus has a long and glorious history. In 2009, she captured the WBC welterweight world title. With a reign lasting until 2020, she became the undisputed champion in 2016 until Jessica McCaskill took her crowns. She is currently the WBC interim champion at 154 pounds.
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Weigh-in report from Pennsylvania |
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Below are the boxers' weights for Saturday night's fight card at The Hollywood Casino at the Meadows in Washington, Pennsylvania. The show will be broadcast on Sportsnet Pittsburgh with Marc Abrams and Ron Witkosky on the call.
Matt Conway 142.5 pounds -vs.- RaulChirino 146.5;
Joseph Turk 213.6 -vs.- Dariel Sanchez 257.2;
Danny Bodish 125 -vs.- Wilner Soto 123;
Devon Seiegfried 174 -vs.- Bryant McClain 169;
Samuel Crossed 219.5 -vs.- Michael Manna 240;
Kevin Weinheimer 151.6 -vs.- Timvonte Carson 156; and
Asadbek Saidov 127.4 -vs.- Lavay Lawrence 128.9.
Promoter: Integrity Pro Boxing
Venue: The Hollywood Casino at The Meadows
First bell: 7:00 PM ET
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Weigh-in report from Pennsylvania
Below are the boxers' weights for Saturday night's fight card at The Hollywood Casino at the Meadows in Washington, Pennsylvania. The show will be broadcast on Sportsnet Pittsburgh with Marc Abrams and Ron Witkosky on the call.
Matt Conway 142.5 pounds -vs.- RaulChirino 146.5;
Joseph Turk 213.6 -vs.- Dariel Sanchez 257.2;
Danny Bodish 125 -vs.- Wilner Soto 123;
Devon Seiegfried 174 -vs.- Bryant McClain 169;
Samuel Crossed 219.5 -vs.- Michael Manna 240;
Kevin Weinheimer 151.6 -vs.- Timvonte Carson 156; and
Asadbek Saidov 127.4 -vs.- Lavay Lawrence 128.9.
Promoter: Integrity Pro Boxing
Venue: The Hollywood Casino at The Meadows
First bell: 7:00 PM ET
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Connecticut Hall of Fame Class of '25 Inductees |
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Three standout fighters who rose to prominence under Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports banner headline the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame (CBHOF) Class of 2025. Matt Godfrey, Scott Pemberton, and Liz Mueller will be inducted alongside contributors Peter Manfredo Sr., Joe Cusano, and the late Steve Epstein. The ceremony takes place on Saturday, October 18th at Mohegan Sun Ballroom. Tickets to the induction event can be purchased at eventbrite.com. Two-division undisputed world champion Katie Taylor will be honored as the 2025 Pro Fighter of the Year. Now residing in Vernon, CT and training at the Manchester Ring of Champions Society, the Irish star is trained by Waterford’s Ross Enamait, who has been named Trainer of the Year.
2025 CBHOF HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES:
Matt Godfrey (21-3, 11 KOs): A six-time New England Golden Gloves champion, Matt "Too Smooth" Godfrey was the 2002 National Golden Gloves heavyweight champion and the 2004 U.S. National Amateur heavyweight champion. The Providence, RI native also served as a second alternate for the 2004 U.S. Olympic team. Godfrey turned pro and compiled a 21-3 record, capturing two regional cruiserweight titles. In 2010, he challenged Marco Huck for the WBO cruiserweight world championship in Germany.
Scott Pemberton (29-5-1, 24 KOs): Pemberton, of Fairhaven, MA, earned a reputation as one of the sport’s toughest competitors, compiling a professional record of 29-5-1. Known as "The Sandman," Pemberton squared off against top names such as Charles Brewer, Omar Sheika, Jeff Lacy, James Crawford, and Peter Manfredo Jr. Pemberton's biggest wins were two memorable wars against Sheika, both times for the IBU super middleweight title.
Liz Mueller (8-2, 2 KOs):
After a decorated track career at Waterford High School, Liz Mueller transitioned to boxing, quickly making her mark as an amateur standout. The New Londoner won the 1999 National Golden Gloves championship, a silver medal at the World Cup in Finland, and a USA Boxing national title. Mueller was also the 1998 National PAL champion and Budweiser Belt champion. As a professional, Mueller posted an 8-2 record, including wins over Hall-of-Famers Jane Couch and Jaime Clampitt. Mueller's second victory over Clampitt earned her the IWBF world lightweight title before she retired from the sport in 2001.
Peter Manfredo Sr.: After a short professional boxing career, Providence, RI's Peter Manfredo Sr. became a renowned boxing coach who guided his son, Peter Jr., to the IBO middleweight world title in 2010. Manfredo Sr. has also helped guide the careers of Jesse Brinkley, Shelly Vincent and Toka Khan Clary.
Joe Cusano: Ring official Joe Cusano has spent more than three decades officiating both amateur and professional bouts, serving as chief of officials for Connecticut USA Boxing. Cusano’s expertise even extended to the silver screen, where he had the distinct honor of officiating a boxing match in "The Featherweight," a 2024 film celebrating his childhood hero, Willie Pep. Cusano memorialized his life in "Uppercuts," a compelling memoir about his experiences in the exhilarating and often brutal world of boxing.
Steve Epstein: The late Steve Epstein, a respected IBF judge, officiated 30 world title fights over his distinguished 20 year career before passing in 2014. Epstein was a founder and board member of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.
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Connecticut Hall of Fame Class of '25 Inductees
Three standout fighters who rose to prominence under Jimmy Burchfield’s Classic Entertainment & Sports banner headline the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame (CBHOF) Class of 2025. Matt Godfrey, Scott Pemberton, and Liz Mueller will be inducted alongside contributors Peter Manfredo Sr., Joe Cusano, and the late Steve Epstein. The ceremony takes place on Saturday, October 18th at Mohegan Sun Ballroom. Tickets to the induction event can be purchased at eventbrite.com. Two-division undisputed world champion Katie Taylor will be honored as the 2025 Pro Fighter of the Year. Now residing in Vernon, CT and training at the Manchester Ring of Champions Society, the Irish star is trained by Waterford’s Ross Enamait, who has been named Trainer of the Year.
2025 CBHOF HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES:
Matt Godfrey (21-3, 11 KOs): A six-time New England Golden Gloves champion, Matt "Too Smooth" Godfrey was the 2002 National Golden Gloves heavyweight champion and the 2004 U.S. National Amateur heavyweight champion. The Providence, RI native also served as a second alternate for the 2004 U.S. Olympic team. Godfrey turned pro and compiled a 21-3 record, capturing two regional cruiserweight titles. In 2010, he challenged Marco Huck for the WBO cruiserweight world championship in Germany.
Scott Pemberton (29-5-1, 24 KOs): Pemberton, of Fairhaven, MA, earned a reputation as one of the sport’s toughest competitors, compiling a professional record of 29-5-1. Known as "The Sandman," Pemberton squared off against top names such as Charles Brewer, Omar Sheika, Jeff Lacy, James Crawford, and Peter Manfredo Jr. Pemberton's biggest wins were two memorable wars against Sheika, both times for the IBU super middleweight title.
Liz Mueller (8-2, 2 KOs):
After a decorated track career at Waterford High School, Liz Mueller transitioned to boxing, quickly making her mark as an amateur standout. The New Londoner won the 1999 National Golden Gloves championship, a silver medal at the World Cup in Finland, and a USA Boxing national title. Mueller was also the 1998 National PAL champion and Budweiser Belt champion. As a professional, Mueller posted an 8-2 record, including wins over Hall-of-Famers Jane Couch and Jaime Clampitt. Mueller's second victory over Clampitt earned her the IWBF world lightweight title before she retired from the sport in 2001.
Peter Manfredo Sr.: After a short professional boxing career, Providence, RI's Peter Manfredo Sr. became a renowned boxing coach who guided his son, Peter Jr., to the IBO middleweight world title in 2010. Manfredo Sr. has also helped guide the careers of Jesse Brinkley, Shelly Vincent and Toka Khan Clary.
Joe Cusano: Ring official Joe Cusano has spent more than three decades officiating both amateur and professional bouts, serving as chief of officials for Connecticut USA Boxing. Cusano’s expertise even extended to the silver screen, where he had the distinct honor of officiating a boxing match in "The Featherweight," a 2024 film celebrating his childhood hero, Willie Pep. Cusano memorialized his life in "Uppercuts," a compelling memoir about his experiences in the exhilarating and often brutal world of boxing.
Steve Epstein: The late Steve Epstein, a respected IBF judge, officiated 30 world title fights over his distinguished 20 year career before passing in 2014. Epstein was a founder and board member of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame.
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Frankie Edgar off Saturday's BKFC show |
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Editor's Note: Former UFC champion Frankie Edgar has been removed from this weekend's BKFC bare knuckles co-feature in Newark New Jersey. NJ.com reported there were undisclosed medical concerns about the 43-year old's condition. Edgar's last three MMA bouts resulted in consecutive knockout losses. His final fight in the UFC, in November 2022, was against Chris Gutierrez and ended with a knockout from a knee. Edgar was supposed to face Jimmie “El Terror” Rivera, who will instead fight a late replacement, Timmy Mason on Saturday. Rivera said at the final press conference, “I'm going to show them what Jersey is all about. It's unfortunate that Frankie Edgar couldn't make it, but it doesn't matter who they put in front of me. I'm going to show Timmy what New Jersey is about, and I love to fight. We're going to put on a show.”
Mason responded, “I'm just excited to fight a cop. I've been running from cops my whole life, but now I get to fight one and not get in trouble (laughs).” As for the rest of the show, “Platinum” Mike Perry faces undefeated Jeremy “Lil Heathen” Stephens with a possible shot at UFC legend Conor McGregor for the winner.
Perry said, “I'm well prepared. I'm in my best position in life ever, period. I'm perfecting everything. The mockery is all fun and games, but I get in here and put in the work. I headline these shows, and I put on for the people that enjoy watching pure freakin' violence, because that is what it is when I get in the ring. I never care who I’m fighting. I do want it to be fun for the fans, and he’s proven himself to the fans of the sport. I’m going to show you guys the best ‘Platinum’ that you’ve seen.”
Stephens had this to say, “The Newark fans are in for a real treat. They're the real winners here. This is my third sold-out show in one year; nobody is doing this. I've got one hell of an opponent. I think this fight is going to blow the roof off the Prudential Center and this event is going to do big numbers. With this being Halloween, I’m going to carve him up real nice before I knock him out.” McGregor, a part owner of BKFC, was at the final press conference, and said, "McGregor, a part owner of BKFC, was at the final press conference, and said, "They're both angling for a fight against the big boss, me! Who do I prefer to win? Either/or. I hope for a good fight for the fans, and I'm confident of that because it's impossible to have a boring fight in BKFC, which is what makes this promotion so good.” Bumped up to the co-feature is a fight bewteen BKFC flyweight champion Christine “Misfit” Ferea and BKFC featherweight champion Jessica “The Black Widow” Borga. Ferea said, “I'm going to be faster, my skills are way better. Size ain't (expletive). History has shown that the smaller man/woman has won time and time again. When I hit her, she's not going to believe that I'm a 125 pounder, I promise you that... “There's nothing nice about her. I'm going to (expletive) her (expletive) up on Saturday night!” Borga was terse, saying only, "“I'm done talking. I'm here to fight. That's it.... She’s just a disgusting individual.”
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Frankie Edgar off Saturday's BKFC show
Editor's Note: Former UFC champion Frankie Edgar has been removed from this weekend's BKFC bare knuckles co-feature in Newark New Jersey. NJ.com reported there were undisclosed medical concerns about the 43-year old's condition. Edgar's last three MMA bouts resulted in consecutive knockout losses. His final fight in the UFC, in November 2022, was against Chris Gutierrez and ended with a knockout from a knee. Edgar was supposed to face Jimmie “El Terror” Rivera, who will instead fight a late replacement, Timmy Mason on Saturday. Rivera said at the final press conference, “I'm going to show them what Jersey is all about. It's unfortunate that Frankie Edgar couldn't make it, but it doesn't matter who they put in front of me. I'm going to show Timmy what New Jersey is about, and I love to fight. We're going to put on a show.”
Mason responded, “I'm just excited to fight a cop. I've been running from cops my whole life, but now I get to fight one and not get in trouble (laughs).” As for the rest of the show, “Platinum” Mike Perry faces undefeated Jeremy “Lil Heathen” Stephens with a possible shot at UFC legend Conor McGregor for the winner.
Perry said, “I'm well prepared. I'm in my best position in life ever, period. I'm perfecting everything. The mockery is all fun and games, but I get in here and put in the work. I headline these shows, and I put on for the people that enjoy watching pure freakin' violence, because that is what it is when I get in the ring. I never care who I’m fighting. I do want it to be fun for the fans, and he’s proven himself to the fans of the sport. I’m going to show you guys the best ‘Platinum’ that you’ve seen.”
Stephens had this to say, “The Newark fans are in for a real treat. They're the real winners here. This is my third sold-out show in one year; nobody is doing this. I've got one hell of an opponent. I think this fight is going to blow the roof off the Prudential Center and this event is going to do big numbers. With this being Halloween, I’m going to carve him up real nice before I knock him out.” McGregor, a part owner of BKFC, was at the final press conference, and said, "McGregor, a part owner of BKFC, was at the final press conference, and said, "They're both angling for a fight against the big boss, me! Who do I prefer to win? Either/or. I hope for a good fight for the fans, and I'm confident of that because it's impossible to have a boring fight in BKFC, which is what makes this promotion so good.” Bumped up to the co-feature is a fight bewteen BKFC flyweight champion Christine “Misfit” Ferea and BKFC featherweight champion Jessica “The Black Widow” Borga. Ferea said, “I'm going to be faster, my skills are way better. Size ain't (expletive). History has shown that the smaller man/woman has won time and time again. When I hit her, she's not going to believe that I'm a 125 pounder, I promise you that... “There's nothing nice about her. I'm going to (expletive) her (expletive) up on Saturday night!” Borga was terse, saying only, "“I'm done talking. I'm here to fight. That's it.... She’s just a disgusting individual.”
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Adeniji winbs by DQ in Nigeria |
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Yusuf Adeniji WDQ5 Akimos Anaang Apiah... Nigeria’s Yusuf Adeniji (17-1, 10 KOs) captured a home-country win in the featherweight division on October 1st, earning the victory by technical decision after Akimos Anaang Apiah (7-3, 6 KOs) of Ghana was disqualified for an intentional low blow in the fifth round.From the opening bell, Adeniji displayed greater tactical discipline, working behind a steady jab and moving smartly to avoid Apiah’s frontal assaults. The Ghanaian pressed the action, looking for exchanges, but it was Adeniji who landed the cleaner, sharper shots, especially at mid-range. The tension escalated in the fourth round when the referee warned Apiah for low blows. In the fifth, following a missed combination, Apiah drove a downward hook squarely into the prohibited zone, leaving Adeniji doubled over in obvious pain. After consulting the ringside physician and reviewing the sequence, the referee called a halt to the contest, ruling a disqualification. Adeniji was ahead on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage by tallies of 50-46 and 50-45 (twice).
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Adeniji winbs by DQ in Nigeria
Yusuf Adeniji WDQ5 Akimos Anaang Apiah... Nigeria’s Yusuf Adeniji (17-1, 10 KOs) captured a home-country win in the featherweight division on October 1st, earning the victory by technical decision after Akimos Anaang Apiah (7-3, 6 KOs) of Ghana was disqualified for an intentional low blow in the fifth round.From the opening bell, Adeniji displayed greater tactical discipline, working behind a steady jab and moving smartly to avoid Apiah’s frontal assaults. The Ghanaian pressed the action, looking for exchanges, but it was Adeniji who landed the cleaner, sharper shots, especially at mid-range. The tension escalated in the fourth round when the referee warned Apiah for low blows. In the fifth, following a missed combination, Apiah drove a downward hook squarely into the prohibited zone, leaving Adeniji doubled over in obvious pain. After consulting the ringside physician and reviewing the sequence, the referee called a halt to the contest, ruling a disqualification. Adeniji was ahead on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage by tallies of 50-46 and 50-45 (twice).
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Boxing at a Crossroads: Part Six of Seven |
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Women’s Boxing and the Underdog Pipeline: The future of boxing cannot be told only through billionaires, promoters and sanctioning bodies. It must also be told through the breakthroughs reshaping the sport — and the hungry, up-and-coming generation fighting for a chance. This chapter focuses on two often-overlooked forces: the beauty of women’s boxing and the beast of the underdog pipeline. Women’s boxing has undergone a revolution in recent years. Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the watershed moment — a Madison Square Garden sellout that proved women’s boxing could deliver unforgettable drama and big box office. Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions gave women fighters a seat at the table by investing in Serrano and paying purses other promoters wouldn’t touch.
But this raises a critical question for the new Zuffa/Saudi partnership. Dana White, to his credit, gave women like Ronda Rousey, Amanda Nunes and Valentina Shevchenko the platform to become global stars in the UFC. Turki Alalshikh, by contrast, operates in a culture where women are often treated as second-class citizens, and Saudi shows have largely ignored female fighters. Can Dana convince Turki that women’s boxing is too important to sideline — or will Jake Paul continue to exploit this opening to keep women as the centerpiece of MVP’s promotions, continuing to give them the voice and stage they’ve long deserved?
The Underdog Pipeline
If women’s boxing is the Beauty, then the Beast is the underdog pipeline — raw, unpolished prospects fighting to break through. Historically, boxing has failed to nurture these fighters. The UFC had The Ultimate Fighter; boxing rarely built similar platforms. That is changing with projects like The Underdog series, designed to showcase rising talent and transform overlooked grinders into tomorrow’s champions. The metaphor fits: today’s rough, hungry fighters may look like beasts, but with the right stage they can transform into heroes. And just as in the Disney tale, the transformation is the story itself — from overlooked to unstoppable.
Two Forces That Could Save the Sport
Together, the Beauty and the Beast embody boxing’s potential for renewal. Women’s boxing expands the audience; the underdog pipeline ensures there will always be new heroes to root for. Ignore them, and the sport risks becoming a hollow spectacle, dependent on aging stars like Canelo,Crawford, Fury, and Usyk, all already past their primes. Embrace them, and boxing may not only survive but thrive — in ways that even billionaires, monarchs, and monopolists cannot control.
CATCH UP ON PRIOR CHAPTERS:
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Boxing at a Crossroads: Part Six of Seven
Women’s Boxing and the Underdog Pipeline: The future of boxing cannot be told only through billionaires, promoters and sanctioning bodies. It must also be told through the breakthroughs reshaping the sport — and the hungry, up-and-coming generation fighting for a chance. This chapter focuses on two often-overlooked forces: the beauty of women’s boxing and the beast of the underdog pipeline. Women’s boxing has undergone a revolution in recent years. Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano in 2022 was the watershed moment — a Madison Square Garden sellout that proved women’s boxing could deliver unforgettable drama and big box office. Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions gave women fighters a seat at the table by investing in Serrano and paying purses other promoters wouldn’t touch.
But this raises a critical question for the new Zuffa/Saudi partnership. Dana White, to his credit, gave women like Ronda Rousey, Amanda Nunes and Valentina Shevchenko the platform to become global stars in the UFC. Turki Alalshikh, by contrast, operates in a culture where women are often treated as second-class citizens, and Saudi shows have largely ignored female fighters. Can Dana convince Turki that women’s boxing is too important to sideline — or will Jake Paul continue to exploit this opening to keep women as the centerpiece of MVP’s promotions, continuing to give them the voice and stage they’ve long deserved?
The Underdog Pipeline
If women’s boxing is the Beauty, then the Beast is the underdog pipeline — raw, unpolished prospects fighting to break through. Historically, boxing has failed to nurture these fighters. The UFC had The Ultimate Fighter; boxing rarely built similar platforms. That is changing with projects like The Underdog series, designed to showcase rising talent and transform overlooked grinders into tomorrow’s champions. The metaphor fits: today’s rough, hungry fighters may look like beasts, but with the right stage they can transform into heroes. And just as in the Disney tale, the transformation is the story itself — from overlooked to unstoppable.
Two Forces That Could Save the Sport
Together, the Beauty and the Beast embody boxing’s potential for renewal. Women’s boxing expands the audience; the underdog pipeline ensures there will always be new heroes to root for. Ignore them, and the sport risks becoming a hollow spectacle, dependent on aging stars like Canelo,Crawford, Fury, and Usyk, all already past their primes. Embrace them, and boxing may not only survive but thrive — in ways that even billionaires, monarchs, and monopolists cannot control.
CATCH UP ON PRIOR CHAPTERS:
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Ennis junior middleweight debut drawing near |
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Former welterweight champion Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis is closing in on his debut at junior middleweight as he takes on Uisma Lima in a final eliminator for the WBA title at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia on Saturday October 11th, live worldwide on DAZN – and in Matchroom’s ‘Day in the Life’ series, Boots says he is ready to announce himself in his new weight class. Ennis (34-0 30 KOs) said goodbye to welterweight in style in April, unifying the division by forcing WBA ruler Eimantas Stanionis to retire after seven punishing rounds in New Jersey, but after listening to his body, the Philadelphia star has moved up to 154 pounds and starts life at his new weight against the dangerous and well-traveled Angolan Lima (14-1 10 KOs).
‘Boots’ got the highest profile preparation possible for the fight, traveling to Lake Tahoe in California to join Canelo Alvarez’s camp for his clash with Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, and the 28 year old invited Matchroom’s cameras on his downtime in the picturesque surroundings, even finding time to do some fishing with his team – and Boots is ready on October 11 to cast his rod into the 154-pound lake to see who bites.
“I can’t wait to step in the ring in the junior middleweight division and take over,” said Ennis. “(On Vergil Ortiz Jr.) That fight is there. Our focus is handling business and getting Lima out of the way, looking good, make a big statement in the 154lb division, and I’m ready.
“Once I handle business, it doesn’t matter who it is; it’s Big Boots, not the little one, it’s Boots 2.0, and I’m excited. Being at a new weight class, the time is here now so it’s time to show out and put on.”
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Ennis junior middleweight debut drawing near
Former welterweight champion Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis is closing in on his debut at junior middleweight as he takes on Uisma Lima in a final eliminator for the WBA title at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia on Saturday October 11th, live worldwide on DAZN – and in Matchroom’s ‘Day in the Life’ series, Boots says he is ready to announce himself in his new weight class. Ennis (34-0 30 KOs) said goodbye to welterweight in style in April, unifying the division by forcing WBA ruler Eimantas Stanionis to retire after seven punishing rounds in New Jersey, but after listening to his body, the Philadelphia star has moved up to 154 pounds and starts life at his new weight against the dangerous and well-traveled Angolan Lima (14-1 10 KOs).
‘Boots’ got the highest profile preparation possible for the fight, traveling to Lake Tahoe in California to join Canelo Alvarez’s camp for his clash with Terence Crawford in Las Vegas, and the 28 year old invited Matchroom’s cameras on his downtime in the picturesque surroundings, even finding time to do some fishing with his team – and Boots is ready on October 11 to cast his rod into the 154-pound lake to see who bites.
“I can’t wait to step in the ring in the junior middleweight division and take over,” said Ennis. “(On Vergil Ortiz Jr.) That fight is there. Our focus is handling business and getting Lima out of the way, looking good, make a big statement in the 154lb division, and I’m ready.
“Once I handle business, it doesn’t matter who it is; it’s Big Boots, not the little one, it’s Boots 2.0, and I’m excited. Being at a new weight class, the time is here now so it’s time to show out and put on.”
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Opetaia books December title defense |
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Tasman Fighters announced "The King is back on the Gold Coast" as Jai Opetaia will defend his IBF cruiserweight title against mandatory challenger Huseyin Cinkara on December 6th at the Gold Coast Convention and exhibition Centre in Opetaia's native Australia. Opetaia last fought June, a win over Claudio Squeo. The German-based Cinkara is undefeated but forty years old.
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Opetaia books December title defense
Tasman Fighters announced "The King is back on the Gold Coast" as Jai Opetaia will defend his IBF cruiserweight title against mandatory challenger Huseyin Cinkara on December 6th at the Gold Coast Convention and exhibition Centre in Opetaia's native Australia. Opetaia last fought June, a win over Claudio Squeo. The German-based Cinkara is undefeated but forty years old.
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Matias title defense looks headed to NYC area |
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The WBC reports that Puerto Rico's Subriel Matías (pictured) will defend his WBC junior welterweight title against Britain’s Dalton Smith on January 10th in New York at a venue still to be confirmed. Matías (23-2, 22 KOs) captured the WBC belt on July 12th when he defeated Dominican Alberto Puello by majority decision. It was the first time in his career that the Puerto Rican secured a victory on the scorecards as all hos other wins came by way of KO. Smith (18-0, 13 KOs), on the other hand, arrives undefeated and with a rapid rise in the division. The Englishman creached world level in 2024 by knocking out José Zepeda, and in 2025 he added further international experience.
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Matias title defense looks headed to NYC area
The WBC reports that Puerto Rico's Subriel Matías (pictured) will defend his WBC junior welterweight title against Britain’s Dalton Smith on January 10th in New York at a venue still to be confirmed. Matías (23-2, 22 KOs) captured the WBC belt on July 12th when he defeated Dominican Alberto Puello by majority decision. It was the first time in his career that the Puerto Rican secured a victory on the scorecards as all hos other wins came by way of KO. Smith (18-0, 13 KOs), on the other hand, arrives undefeated and with a rapid rise in the division. The Englishman creached world level in 2024 by knocking out José Zepeda, and in 2025 he added further international experience.
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Lorente defends Euro title vs. Collins in battle of undefeated featherweights |
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Nathaniel Collins (17-0) will challenge for the European featherweight title against Cristobal Lorente (20-0-2) of Spain on Saturday, topping a bumper card at the Braehead Arena. The fight also represents a final eliminator for a shot at the WBC world title. On Thursday, the fighters gathered at the Glasgow Science Centre to exchange their final words and below are a selection of key quotes from this media event.
Nathaniel Collins
“I feel amazing, as always, nothing has really changed from the rest of my fights and preparations. I am always looking to make a statement, every time I go out so, yeah, Saturday is no different.
“For this fight all I have seen is people saying Nathaniel is challenging for the European title, European is the next step. Not once in this camp have I thought about the European title at all. All I have thought about is that it is a world title eliminator.
“He is obviously good to be European champion. He is awkward, but it doesn’t really matter. It doesn’t matter what he brings because I’m going to bring what I bring.
“From what I gather he is saying he is a more intelligent or tactical fighter. I don’t believe that and I don’t think he believes that. I read an article he or his coach did saying they think I am tactical and intelligent and so forth, so he will need to be at his best. That is what they are saying.
“But obviously we are at the press conference so you need to say something.
“I am going to make a big statement to the rest of the world after Saturday night, the same way I did last time. My name is going to be up in lights again.”
Cristobal Lorente
“Simple and easy, I will do my best in the ring on Saturday night. Do my best to bring out the work I do at the gym. I have been waiting for this moment of my life and for my career and this is my moment to shine.
“I am considered a tactical fighter. I have a lot of skills to stay good in every moment of the fight. If they are going to work, I will beat this work inside the ring. If they fight an intelligent fight, I am more intelligent than him. I will do an intelligent fight.
“Really I think they have made a mistake with this opponent and I will show him on Saturday night in the ring.”
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Lorente defends Euro title vs. Collins in battle of undefeated featherweights
Nathaniel Collins (17-0) will challenge for the European featherweight title against Cristobal Lorente (20-0-2) of Spain on Saturday, topping a bumper card at the Braehead Arena. The fight also represents a final eliminator for a shot at the WBC world title. On Thursday, the fighters gathered at the Glasgow Science Centre to exchange their final words and below are a selection of key quotes from this media event.
Nathaniel Collins
“I feel amazing, as always, nothing has really changed from the rest of my fights and preparations. I am always looking to make a statement, every time I go out so, yeah, Saturday is no different.
“For this fight all I have seen is people saying Nathaniel is challenging for the European title, European is the next step. Not once in this camp have I thought about the European title at all. All I have thought about is that it is a world title eliminator.
“He is obviously good to be European champion. He is awkward, but it doesn’t really matter. It doesn’t matter what he brings because I’m going to bring what I bring.
“From what I gather he is saying he is a more intelligent or tactical fighter. I don’t believe that and I don’t think he believes that. I read an article he or his coach did saying they think I am tactical and intelligent and so forth, so he will need to be at his best. That is what they are saying.
“But obviously we are at the press conference so you need to say something.
“I am going to make a big statement to the rest of the world after Saturday night, the same way I did last time. My name is going to be up in lights again.”
Cristobal Lorente
“Simple and easy, I will do my best in the ring on Saturday night. Do my best to bring out the work I do at the gym. I have been waiting for this moment of my life and for my career and this is my moment to shine.
“I am considered a tactical fighter. I have a lot of skills to stay good in every moment of the fight. If they are going to work, I will beat this work inside the ring. If they fight an intelligent fight, I am more intelligent than him. I will do an intelligent fight.
“Really I think they have made a mistake with this opponent and I will show him on Saturday night in the ring.”
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