Luis Alberto Lopez to defend title vs. Mick Conlan |
|
Mexico's Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez will make the first defense of his IBF featherweight title against Michael “Mick” Conlan on Saturday, May 27th at The SSE Arena in Conlan’s hometown of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Lopez captured the title last December, venturing to Josh Warrington’s home base of Leeds, England, to grind out a majority decision. Lopez-Conlan and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the United States. BT Sport will broadcast the event in the UK and Ireland. Promoted by Top Rank and Conlan Boxing, in association with Queensberry Promotions, tickets go on sale Friday, March 31st at 11 a.m. local time via www.Ticketmaster.ie.
“Belfast hasn’t had a big world title fight in six years. Michael’s fans have traveled far and wide throughout his career and now they get to create the cauldron-like atmosphere that the SSE Arena is known for in the biggest fight of his career. Luis Alberto Lopez is a very dangerous fighter and a fantastic champion that has a reputation of going to the enemy’s backyard and upsetting the apple cart, so we are in for a barnburner on May 27th,” said Conlan Boxing CEO Jamie Conlan.
Lopez (27-2, 15 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico, navigated bumpy terrain to become a champion. After early-career defeats to Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa stunted his momentum, Lopez thrilled American fight fans with a July 2020 split decision victory over Andy Vences inside the MGM Grand Bubble. Fourteen months later, he dominated then-unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over ten rounds. Lopez then moved down to featherweight and stopped another undefeated foe, Isaac Lowe, in seven rounds at London’s York Hall. After two stay-busy wins, he received his shot at the title, turning an expected triumphant Leeds homecoming into disappointment for Warrington's partisan fans.
“I am a road warrior. Traveling to my opponent’s home country doesn’t faze me,” Lopez said. “I won my world title in Leeds, and now it's time to defend it in Belfast. The louder they cheer for Michael, the harder I will fight. The IBF title will remain in Mexico. May 27th will be a special night for me, and Michael’s fans will go home disappointed.”
Conlan (24-4 including the World Series of Boxing) turned pro in 2017 after a decorated Irish amateur career that included two Olympic berths, an Olympic bronze medal, and gold medals at the World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games. His double middle finger salute to the judges at the 2016 Rio Olympics turned him into a fighting folk hero, and as a pro, he has proven himself on the world stage. Last March, he nearly captured the WBA featherweight crown from Leigh Wood in Wood’s hometown of Nottingham, England. Conlan, ahead on all three scorecards, was knocked out in the 12th round of ESPN's Fight of the Year. The Wood disappointment did not linger, as Conlan came back later that year with victories over Miguel Marriaga and Karim Guerfi at The SSE Arena. Five months after knocking out Guerfi in one round, Conlan returns to the friendly SSE Arena confines, prepared to seize his championship moment.
“This is a massive opportunity. Fighting for the world title in Belfast is something I’ve always dreamed of, and I will be taking this opportunity with both hands.” Conlan said. “The SSE Arena will be buzzing, and I will do everything I can to bring a world title home. Credit to Lopez for coming to Belfast, but I am taking his title. He is not prepared for what is coming his way on May 27. Ireland will see a new champion crowned.”
“The passionate Belfast fans will pack The SSE Arena hoping to lift their hero, Michael Conlan, to a world title. I also know that Luis Alberto Lopez thrives in enemy territory and will not relinquish his title without a tremendous fight,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.
|
|
|
|
Luis Alberto Lopez to defend title vs. Mick Conlan
Mexico's Luis Alberto “El Venado” Lopez will make the first defense of his IBF featherweight title against Michael “Mick” Conlan on Saturday, May 27th at The SSE Arena in Conlan’s hometown of Belfast, Northern Ireland. Lopez captured the title last December, venturing to Josh Warrington’s home base of Leeds, England, to grind out a majority decision. Lopez-Conlan and undercard bouts will stream live and exclusively on ESPN+ in the United States. BT Sport will broadcast the event in the UK and Ireland. Promoted by Top Rank and Conlan Boxing, in association with Queensberry Promotions, tickets go on sale Friday, March 31st at 11 a.m. local time via www.Ticketmaster.ie.
“Belfast hasn’t had a big world title fight in six years. Michael’s fans have traveled far and wide throughout his career and now they get to create the cauldron-like atmosphere that the SSE Arena is known for in the biggest fight of his career. Luis Alberto Lopez is a very dangerous fighter and a fantastic champion that has a reputation of going to the enemy’s backyard and upsetting the apple cart, so we are in for a barnburner on May 27th,” said Conlan Boxing CEO Jamie Conlan.
Lopez (27-2, 15 KOs), from Mexicali, Mexico, navigated bumpy terrain to become a champion. After early-career defeats to Abraham Montoya and Ruben Villa stunted his momentum, Lopez thrilled American fight fans with a July 2020 split decision victory over Andy Vences inside the MGM Grand Bubble. Fourteen months later, he dominated then-unbeaten junior lightweight prospect Gabriel Flores Jr. over ten rounds. Lopez then moved down to featherweight and stopped another undefeated foe, Isaac Lowe, in seven rounds at London’s York Hall. After two stay-busy wins, he received his shot at the title, turning an expected triumphant Leeds homecoming into disappointment for Warrington's partisan fans.
“I am a road warrior. Traveling to my opponent’s home country doesn’t faze me,” Lopez said. “I won my world title in Leeds, and now it's time to defend it in Belfast. The louder they cheer for Michael, the harder I will fight. The IBF title will remain in Mexico. May 27th will be a special night for me, and Michael’s fans will go home disappointed.”
Conlan (24-4 including the World Series of Boxing) turned pro in 2017 after a decorated Irish amateur career that included two Olympic berths, an Olympic bronze medal, and gold medals at the World Championships, European Championships, and Commonwealth Games. His double middle finger salute to the judges at the 2016 Rio Olympics turned him into a fighting folk hero, and as a pro, he has proven himself on the world stage. Last March, he nearly captured the WBA featherweight crown from Leigh Wood in Wood’s hometown of Nottingham, England. Conlan, ahead on all three scorecards, was knocked out in the 12th round of ESPN's Fight of the Year. The Wood disappointment did not linger, as Conlan came back later that year with victories over Miguel Marriaga and Karim Guerfi at The SSE Arena. Five months after knocking out Guerfi in one round, Conlan returns to the friendly SSE Arena confines, prepared to seize his championship moment.
“This is a massive opportunity. Fighting for the world title in Belfast is something I’ve always dreamed of, and I will be taking this opportunity with both hands.” Conlan said. “The SSE Arena will be buzzing, and I will do everything I can to bring a world title home. Credit to Lopez for coming to Belfast, but I am taking his title. He is not prepared for what is coming his way on May 27. Ireland will see a new champion crowned.”
“The passionate Belfast fans will pack The SSE Arena hoping to lift their hero, Michael Conlan, to a world title. I also know that Luis Alberto Lopez thrives in enemy territory and will not relinquish his title without a tremendous fight,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum.
|
Some familiar names surface in Team Combat League |
|
Team Combat League proudly announced the rosters today of the two teams facing off on March 29th at Connecticut's Mohegan Sun, the opening night of the league’s inaugural season. The New York City Attitude will be coached by Benny Roman and Ryan O’Leary facing off against the Los Angeles Ten Goose, coached by Ricky Funez. There are some familiar names on the roster, with the rules calling for one-round bouts. The LA roster lists Sean Garcia and Ashton Sylve, two undefeated lightweights. Sylve's career war previously linked to Jake Paul's MVP Promotions and he last fought on the undercard of Paul vs. Anderson Silva in October. At middleweight, LA lists Alejandro Silva (20-0-1), while New York has rostered Pete Dobson (16-0). At welterweight, LA has Vlad Panin (16-1) while New York names Jamshidbek Najmitdinov (18-2) among the eligible boxers. NOTE: The actual match-ups in Team Combat League are not known in advance because the coaches alternate in selecting the match-ups. A coach may match up one of three fighters in every weight class provided the matchups have been approved by the Boxing Commission. Spectators are therefore in the dark as to which fighter will fight who and when until the decision is made by coaches in real time. This uncertainty, combined with the fast paced three-minute round per boxer format results in constant action in which the spectator literally has no idea what is coming next.
“We are humbled and excited to be appearing in the historic first night Team Combat League Match action," Ricky Funez, LA Ten Goose coach declared. “No one is going to remember the loser of the first match. We intend to be remembered."
“We are looking forward to the challenge of facing a strong LA team in the opening night of Team Combat League action," NYC coach Ryan O’Leary countered. "We expect the depth of our team to overwhelm LA, however.”
“No West Coast Team is coming to our turf and stopping us from making history," Benny Roman, NYC Attitude coach added. "We are just too strong all through the roster for that to happen.”
NEW YORK ROSTER
Male Lightweight
Sherbek Rakhmatulloyev
Titus Williams
Jonibek Khomatov
Male Welterweight
Jamshidbek Najmitdinov
Darrius Jackson
Charles Garner
Male Middleweight
Peter Dobson
Christian Cangelos
Male Light Heavyweight
Ralph Clemente
Afunwa King
Fred Julan
Male Heavyweight
Pryce Taylor
Conja Nathan
Earl Newman
Female Featherweight
Nicole Ocasio
Trudy Li
Jaica Pavilus
LOS ANGELES ROSTER:
Male Lightweight
Ashton Sylvie
Sean Garcia
Sean Bates
Male Welterweight
Juan Funez
Vlad Panin
Franco Ocampo
Male Middleweight
Alejandro Silva
Joshua Connley
Male Light Heavyweight
Ronald Ellis
Martin Higuta
Angel Lozano
Male Heavyweight
Siala Mou Siliga
Duvall Cashton Young
Austin Wolf
Female Featherweight
Iyana Verduczo
Lizette Lopez
|
|
|
|
Some familiar names surface in Team Combat League
Team Combat League proudly announced the rosters today of the two teams facing off on March 29th at Connecticut's Mohegan Sun, the opening night of the league’s inaugural season. The New York City Attitude will be coached by Benny Roman and Ryan O’Leary facing off against the Los Angeles Ten Goose, coached by Ricky Funez. There are some familiar names on the roster, with the rules calling for one-round bouts. The LA roster lists Sean Garcia and Ashton Sylve, two undefeated lightweights. Sylve's career war previously linked to Jake Paul's MVP Promotions and he last fought on the undercard of Paul vs. Anderson Silva in October. At middleweight, LA lists Alejandro Silva (20-0-1), while New York has rostered Pete Dobson (16-0). At welterweight, LA has Vlad Panin (16-1) while New York names Jamshidbek Najmitdinov (18-2) among the eligible boxers. NOTE: The actual match-ups in Team Combat League are not known in advance because the coaches alternate in selecting the match-ups. A coach may match up one of three fighters in every weight class provided the matchups have been approved by the Boxing Commission. Spectators are therefore in the dark as to which fighter will fight who and when until the decision is made by coaches in real time. This uncertainty, combined with the fast paced three-minute round per boxer format results in constant action in which the spectator literally has no idea what is coming next.
“We are humbled and excited to be appearing in the historic first night Team Combat League Match action," Ricky Funez, LA Ten Goose coach declared. “No one is going to remember the loser of the first match. We intend to be remembered."
“We are looking forward to the challenge of facing a strong LA team in the opening night of Team Combat League action," NYC coach Ryan O’Leary countered. "We expect the depth of our team to overwhelm LA, however.”
“No West Coast Team is coming to our turf and stopping us from making history," Benny Roman, NYC Attitude coach added. "We are just too strong all through the roster for that to happen.”
NEW YORK ROSTER
Male Lightweight
Sherbek Rakhmatulloyev
Titus Williams
Jonibek Khomatov
Male Welterweight
Jamshidbek Najmitdinov
Darrius Jackson
Charles Garner
Male Middleweight
Peter Dobson
Christian Cangelos
Male Light Heavyweight
Ralph Clemente
Afunwa King
Fred Julan
Male Heavyweight
Pryce Taylor
Conja Nathan
Earl Newman
Female Featherweight
Nicole Ocasio
Trudy Li
Jaica Pavilus
LOS ANGELES ROSTER:
Male Lightweight
Ashton Sylvie
Sean Garcia
Sean Bates
Male Welterweight
Juan Funez
Vlad Panin
Franco Ocampo
Male Middleweight
Alejandro Silva
Joshua Connley
Male Light Heavyweight
Ronald Ellis
Martin Higuta
Angel Lozano
Male Heavyweight
Siala Mou Siliga
Duvall Cashton Young
Austin Wolf
Female Featherweight
Iyana Verduczo
Lizette Lopez
|
Watch: Sergio Martinez scores a KO1 |
|
Sergio Martinez KO1 Jhon Teheran... Former world middleweight champion Sergio Martinez is still plugging away at age 48. Fighting in his home county of Argentina, Martinez landed a combination that knocked out Jhon Teheran in the first round on Tuesday. Teheran is a 38 year-old Colombian who is now 18-3. Martinez (57-3-2) has now won six straight since his 2020 comeback started following six years out of the ring.
|
|
|
|
Watch: Sergio Martinez scores a KO1
Sergio Martinez KO1 Jhon Teheran... Former world middleweight champion Sergio Martinez is still plugging away at age 48. Fighting in his home county of Argentina, Martinez landed a combination that knocked out Jhon Teheran in the first round on Tuesday. Teheran is a 38 year-old Colombian who is now 18-3. Martinez (57-3-2) has now won six straight since his 2020 comeback started following six years out of the ring.
|
Thursday's Montreal show to air on ESPN+ |
|
U.S. boxing fans can watch a Canadian boxing show on ESPN+ tomorrow (Thursday) when super middleweight knockout artist Christian Mbilli takes on two-time Ecuadorian Olympian Carlos Gongora in a ten-round main event from the Montreal Casino. Mbilli-Gongora and undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ on Thursday starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Mbilli (22-0, 20 KOs) is a 2016 French Olympian who is inching closer to a world title opportunity. The 27-year old is coming off a successful 2022 in which he scored knockout wins over Nadjib Mohammedi and DeAndre Ware, along with a decision victory last December over Vaughn Alexander.
Gongora (21-1, 16 KOs) represented Ecuador in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics before turning pro in 2015. In 2020, he scored an upset knockout victory over Ali Akhmedov. He then stopped Christopher Pearson in 2021 before losing a close decision to Lerrone Richards. The 33-year-old southpaw is coming off a fourth-round TKO over Oscar Riojas last August.
In other streaming action from Montreal:
Canadian Olympian Simon Kean (22-1, 21 KOs) faces his stiffest challenge yet against two-time world title challenger Eric Molina (29-8, 21 KOs). Kean was 15-0 with 14 knockouts before an upset loss to Dillon Carman in 2018. He avenged that loss the following year as part of a seven-fight knockout win streak.
Junior welterweight Steve Claggett (33-7-2, 23 KOs) will attempt to score his fifth straight KO victory in a ten-round tilt against Mexico’s Rafael Guzman Lugo (26-2-2, 16 KOs).
Lightweight Luis Santana (8-0, 2 KOs) returns to the ring in an eight-round fight against Francisco Arturo Ramirez Martinez (11-4, 6 KOs) of Veracruz, Mexico.
In a battle of undefeated junior lightweights, Canada’s Leila Beaudoin (8-0, 1 KO) will collide against Mexico’s Laura Avendano Mondragon (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.
|
|
|
|
Thursday's Montreal show to air on ESPN+
U.S. boxing fans can watch a Canadian boxing show on ESPN+ tomorrow (Thursday) when super middleweight knockout artist Christian Mbilli takes on two-time Ecuadorian Olympian Carlos Gongora in a ten-round main event from the Montreal Casino. Mbilli-Gongora and undercard bouts will stream live on ESPN+ on Thursday starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. Mbilli (22-0, 20 KOs) is a 2016 French Olympian who is inching closer to a world title opportunity. The 27-year old is coming off a successful 2022 in which he scored knockout wins over Nadjib Mohammedi and DeAndre Ware, along with a decision victory last December over Vaughn Alexander.
Gongora (21-1, 16 KOs) represented Ecuador in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics before turning pro in 2015. In 2020, he scored an upset knockout victory over Ali Akhmedov. He then stopped Christopher Pearson in 2021 before losing a close decision to Lerrone Richards. The 33-year-old southpaw is coming off a fourth-round TKO over Oscar Riojas last August.
In other streaming action from Montreal:
Canadian Olympian Simon Kean (22-1, 21 KOs) faces his stiffest challenge yet against two-time world title challenger Eric Molina (29-8, 21 KOs). Kean was 15-0 with 14 knockouts before an upset loss to Dillon Carman in 2018. He avenged that loss the following year as part of a seven-fight knockout win streak.
Junior welterweight Steve Claggett (33-7-2, 23 KOs) will attempt to score his fifth straight KO victory in a ten-round tilt against Mexico’s Rafael Guzman Lugo (26-2-2, 16 KOs).
Lightweight Luis Santana (8-0, 2 KOs) returns to the ring in an eight-round fight against Francisco Arturo Ramirez Martinez (11-4, 6 KOs) of Veracruz, Mexico.
In a battle of undefeated junior lightweights, Canada’s Leila Beaudoin (8-0, 1 KO) will collide against Mexico’s Laura Avendano Mondragon (6-0, 2 KOs) in a six-rounder.
|
Showtime reveals two freestream bouts for Saturday |
|
Showtime's PPV Countdown Show, this Saturday, March 25th, will freestream two bouts before the David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant pay-per-view event that takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Unbeaten super bantamweight Kevin Gonzalez will battle Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin in a ten-round duel, while Cuban junior welterweight Orestes Velazquez takes on Argentina’s Marcelino Lopez in another ten rounder. The live streaming presentation will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel and Showtime Boxing Facebook page and will be hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell. These fights will lead up to the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
The 2 -year-old González (25-0-1, 13 KOs) made a successful U.S. debut in May 2022, earning a unanimous decision over Emanuel Rivera Nieves in a ten-round fight. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over Ivan Morales in March 2021. González stopped Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. He takes on the 30 year-old Sanmartin (34-6-1, 21 KOs), who most recently won a unanimous decision over Miguel Martinez in December 2022. The Arboletes, Colombia-native has losses against current featherweight champion Mauricio Lara and current super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete during a pro career that dates back to 2011.
A native of Cuba now residing in Miami, Velazquez (6-0, 6 KOs) has stopped each opponent he’s faced since turning pro in October 2020 following a prolific amateur career. The 30-year old added four victories in 2022, including most recently stopping Guillermo Leonel Crocco in the first round of their December 2022 clash. He will be opposed by Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Lopez (37-2-1, 22 KOs), who enters this fight having won his last five outings, including triumphs over veteran contenders Pablo Cesar Cano and Breidis Prescott. The 36-year old has a 5-1 record stateside, with his only blemish coming via-split decision against Michael Perez in 2017.
The non-televised undercard lineup will be highlighted by a battle of unbeatens as Las Vegas super featherweight Demler Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs) battles Arizona’s Jesus Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showdown. Rounding out the action is super middleweight Daniel Blancas (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round attraction facing Texas-native Nicholas Molina (4-1-1, 4 KOs), super featherweight Robert Meriwether III (3-0, 2 KOs) dueling Mexico’s Jesus Perez (14-15-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round fight, and super featherweight Dorian Khan Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round fight.
|
|
|
|
Showtime reveals two freestream bouts for Saturday
Showtime's PPV Countdown Show, this Saturday, March 25th, will freestream two bouts before the David Benavidez vs. Caleb Plant pay-per-view event that takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Unbeaten super bantamweight Kevin Gonzalez will battle Colombia’s Jose Sanmartin in a ten-round duel, while Cuban junior welterweight Orestes Velazquez takes on Argentina’s Marcelino Lopez in another ten rounder. The live streaming presentation will begin at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the Showtime Sports YouTube channel and Showtime Boxing Facebook page and will be hosted by Luke Thomas and Brian Campbell. These fights will lead up to the pay-per-view telecast at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
The 2 -year-old González (25-0-1, 13 KOs) made a successful U.S. debut in May 2022, earning a unanimous decision over Emanuel Rivera Nieves in a ten-round fight. A native of Sinaloa, Mexico, González has fought professionally since 2016, and owns a unanimous decision over Ivan Morales in March 2021. González stopped Alexander Mejia in July 2021, finishing the fight in round seven. He takes on the 30 year-old Sanmartin (34-6-1, 21 KOs), who most recently won a unanimous decision over Miguel Martinez in December 2022. The Arboletes, Colombia-native has losses against current featherweight champion Mauricio Lara and current super featherweight champion Emanuel Navarrete during a pro career that dates back to 2011.
A native of Cuba now residing in Miami, Velazquez (6-0, 6 KOs) has stopped each opponent he’s faced since turning pro in October 2020 following a prolific amateur career. The 30-year old added four victories in 2022, including most recently stopping Guillermo Leonel Crocco in the first round of their December 2022 clash. He will be opposed by Buenos Aires, Argentina’s Lopez (37-2-1, 22 KOs), who enters this fight having won his last five outings, including triumphs over veteran contenders Pablo Cesar Cano and Breidis Prescott. The 36-year old has a 5-1 record stateside, with his only blemish coming via-split decision against Michael Perez in 2017.
The non-televised undercard lineup will be highlighted by a battle of unbeatens as Las Vegas super featherweight Demler Zamora (10-0, 8 KOs) battles Arizona’s Jesus Ibarra (15-0, 7 KOs) in an eight-round showdown. Rounding out the action is super middleweight Daniel Blancas (5-0, 3 KOs) in a six-round attraction facing Texas-native Nicholas Molina (4-1-1, 4 KOs), super featherweight Robert Meriwether III (3-0, 2 KOs) dueling Mexico’s Jesus Perez (14-15-1, 8 KOs) in a six-round fight, and super featherweight Dorian Khan Jr. (3-0, 2 KOs) in a four-round fight.
|
Tonight: ProBox action from Florida |
|
ProBox TV will return tonight (March 22nd) with a show from Plant City, Florida at 8 PM EST. The scheduled ten-round main event featuring Mexican southpaw Jorge Lara (29-2-2) has been postponed due to a hand injury. It will be rescheduled at a later date on ProBox TV. The new main event comes from the lightweight division, with Mexico's Angel ‘El Chocolatito’ Vazquez (12-0) squaring off against Canadian-based Guinean Mohamed ‘El Bufalo Negro’ Soumaoro (12-1) over ten rounds. Vazquez comes off a points victory over the unbeaten Nicholas Sullivan in December, with Soumaoro taking the zero away from Jusiyah Shirley in his most previous bout. Subsequently both fighters picked up a victory in their American debuts in their last fight against an undefeated opponent.
Somebody’s 0 will have to go on the undercard Kentuckian Demontaze Duncan (8-0) goes to battle with Puerto Rican Axl Melendez (5-0). The two knockout artists open the televised card at 147 pounds in a six-round duel. Duncan retired Tyrone Crawley in the second round in his last outing, Melendez will make his American debut.
T If you aren't already a subscriber, you can sign up for $1.99 per month to watch this and all previous ProBox events, as well original content. The commentary comes from former world champions Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri alongside Mike Goldberg in English. The Spanish speaking team will consist of Claudia Trejos and Mexican hero Juan Manuel Márquez.
|
|
|
|
Tonight: ProBox action from Florida
ProBox TV will return tonight (March 22nd) with a show from Plant City, Florida at 8 PM EST. The scheduled ten-round main event featuring Mexican southpaw Jorge Lara (29-2-2) has been postponed due to a hand injury. It will be rescheduled at a later date on ProBox TV. The new main event comes from the lightweight division, with Mexico's Angel ‘El Chocolatito’ Vazquez (12-0) squaring off against Canadian-based Guinean Mohamed ‘El Bufalo Negro’ Soumaoro (12-1) over ten rounds. Vazquez comes off a points victory over the unbeaten Nicholas Sullivan in December, with Soumaoro taking the zero away from Jusiyah Shirley in his most previous bout. Subsequently both fighters picked up a victory in their American debuts in their last fight against an undefeated opponent.
Somebody’s 0 will have to go on the undercard Kentuckian Demontaze Duncan (8-0) goes to battle with Puerto Rican Axl Melendez (5-0). The two knockout artists open the televised card at 147 pounds in a six-round duel. Duncan retired Tyrone Crawley in the second round in his last outing, Melendez will make his American debut.
T If you aren't already a subscriber, you can sign up for $1.99 per month to watch this and all previous ProBox events, as well original content. The commentary comes from former world champions Paulie Malignaggi and Chris Algieri alongside Mike Goldberg in English. The Spanish speaking team will consist of Claudia Trejos and Mexican hero Juan Manuel Márquez.
|
Wright vs. Howard heavyweight fight to headline PA show in April |
|
RDR Promotions returns to the Clarion Hotel in Essington, Pennsylvania on Friday, April 14th as heavyweights Junior Wright and Brian Howard slug it out in the six-round main event. In the six-round co-feature, welterweight Mark Dawson Jr. will be in action against Jose Mayoral. Fresh off an October knockout of Colby Madison, Wright of Delaware County is 19-4-1 with 16 KOs. The 36 year-old Wright also holds a quality win over Nick Kisner (12-0-1). On May 21, 2016, Wright challenged Beibut Shumenov for the WBA regular cruiserweight title, getting stopped in ten rounds.
Howard of Loganville, Georgia has a record of 15-5 with 12 KOs. The 42- year old has wins over Chris Stallworth (9-2), Alex Guerrero (12-0-1), Shawndell Winters (8-0) and Carlos Negron (20-2). Howard is coming off a loss to Efe Ajagba on April 10, 2021.
Dawson of Philadelphia, is promoted by RDR Promotions and has a pro record of 10-1-1 with four knockouts. The 25-year old has been a pro for seven years, and has a win over Ivan Pandzic (13-0-1). Dawson is coming off a fourth-round stoppage over Vincent Floyd on September 23, 2022 in Essington, PA
Mayoral of New Orleans, Louisiana is 5-2-1 with one knockout. Mayoral holds a big win over Boubacar Sylla (12-0). Mayoral is coming off a draw with Ibrahim Robinson (4-0) on January 21st in Tampa, Florida.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
In a six-round bout, Angel Perez (7-0, 6 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA takes on upset-specialist Kieron Hooks (4-2-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia at welterweight.
In another six-round bout, Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Eric Manriquez (7-15-1, 3 KOs) of Houston in a featherweight contest.
In a four-round bout, Antonio Dubose (13-2-2, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Phillip Davis (3-5-2) of Worcester, Mass. in a lightweight affair.
Seeing action against opponents to be named will be RDR Promotions fighters: junior welterweight Marvelous Corbin (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia; bantamweight Edwin Cortes (3-0 of Millville, NJ and welterweight Nimal Farmer (3-0, 3 KOs) of Lindenwold, NJ
The Clarion Hotel is located at 76 Industrial Highway in Essington, PA
|
|
|
|
Wright vs. Howard heavyweight fight to headline PA show in April
RDR Promotions returns to the Clarion Hotel in Essington, Pennsylvania on Friday, April 14th as heavyweights Junior Wright and Brian Howard slug it out in the six-round main event. In the six-round co-feature, welterweight Mark Dawson Jr. will be in action against Jose Mayoral. Fresh off an October knockout of Colby Madison, Wright of Delaware County is 19-4-1 with 16 KOs. The 36 year-old Wright also holds a quality win over Nick Kisner (12-0-1). On May 21, 2016, Wright challenged Beibut Shumenov for the WBA regular cruiserweight title, getting stopped in ten rounds.
Howard of Loganville, Georgia has a record of 15-5 with 12 KOs. The 42- year old has wins over Chris Stallworth (9-2), Alex Guerrero (12-0-1), Shawndell Winters (8-0) and Carlos Negron (20-2). Howard is coming off a loss to Efe Ajagba on April 10, 2021.
Dawson of Philadelphia, is promoted by RDR Promotions and has a pro record of 10-1-1 with four knockouts. The 25-year old has been a pro for seven years, and has a win over Ivan Pandzic (13-0-1). Dawson is coming off a fourth-round stoppage over Vincent Floyd on September 23, 2022 in Essington, PA
Mayoral of New Orleans, Louisiana is 5-2-1 with one knockout. Mayoral holds a big win over Boubacar Sylla (12-0). Mayoral is coming off a draw with Ibrahim Robinson (4-0) on January 21st in Tampa, Florida.
ADDITIONAL BOUTS
In a six-round bout, Angel Perez (7-0, 6 KOs) of Harrisburg, PA takes on upset-specialist Kieron Hooks (4-2-2, 1 KO) of Philadelphia at welterweight.
In another six-round bout, Rasheen Brown (11-1, 7 KOs) of Philadelphia takes on Eric Manriquez (7-15-1, 3 KOs) of Houston in a featherweight contest.
In a four-round bout, Antonio Dubose (13-2-2, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia fights Phillip Davis (3-5-2) of Worcester, Mass. in a lightweight affair.
Seeing action against opponents to be named will be RDR Promotions fighters: junior welterweight Marvelous Corbin (2-0, 2 KOs) of Philadelphia; bantamweight Edwin Cortes (3-0 of Millville, NJ and welterweight Nimal Farmer (3-0, 3 KOs) of Lindenwold, NJ
The Clarion Hotel is located at 76 Industrial Highway in Essington, PA
|
Introducing Baltimore junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones |
|
Jeter Promotions has announced the signing of junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones to a promotional contract. Jones, age 23 years and from Baltimore, is 4-0 with two knockouts. All four of his wins have come on Jeter Promotions cards, and the news of the signing makes it official that he will be with Jeter Promotions going forward. "Tony Jeter is doing an amazing job, and he is keeping fighters active and doing great things. He is staying busy by doing shows in different areas. I could see myself fighting in the different spots that Tony promotes such as Atlanta, Pennsylvania and Maryland," said Jones.
Jones is trained by Marvin McDowell. He started boxing at the age of 13, and had 35 amateur fights. He considers himself a boxer-puncher. He turned professional on December 3, 2021 with a first-round stoppage over Joshua Zimmerman in Philadelphia. Jones also has a win over Kani Burnside. In his latest outing, Jones won a four-round unanimous decision over Michael Crain on February 18th in Hanover, Maryland..
"I am working on building my record and hopefully get on TV and fight for any belt that is available. Tony can bring me to be a champion and I believe in him:"
|
|
|
|
Introducing Baltimore junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones
Jeter Promotions has announced the signing of junior welterweight Ahmad Muhammad Jones to a promotional contract. Jones, age 23 years and from Baltimore, is 4-0 with two knockouts. All four of his wins have come on Jeter Promotions cards, and the news of the signing makes it official that he will be with Jeter Promotions going forward. "Tony Jeter is doing an amazing job, and he is keeping fighters active and doing great things. He is staying busy by doing shows in different areas. I could see myself fighting in the different spots that Tony promotes such as Atlanta, Pennsylvania and Maryland," said Jones.
Jones is trained by Marvin McDowell. He started boxing at the age of 13, and had 35 amateur fights. He considers himself a boxer-puncher. He turned professional on December 3, 2021 with a first-round stoppage over Joshua Zimmerman in Philadelphia. Jones also has a win over Kani Burnside. In his latest outing, Jones won a four-round unanimous decision over Michael Crain on February 18th in Hanover, Maryland..
"I am working on building my record and hopefully get on TV and fight for any belt that is available. Tony can bring me to be a champion and I believe in him:"
|
Boxxer reaches distribution deal for three Asian countries |
|
Boxxer announced the renewal of its exclusive media rights partnership with Mola in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The next event takes place on March 25th at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, headlined by WBO cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie, who defends his title against mandatory challenger from New Zealand, David Light. Mola is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia – the world’s fourth most populous country behind the US, China and India. Mola is owned and operated by Djarum Group’s subsidiary, Polytron, and is currently available in seven territories globally. The platform’s extensive programming portfolio includes live and on-demand rights to a host of international sports leagues and properties, whilst offering an expansive on-demand library of films, TV series and original programming.
Boxxer already has a distribution deal with Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, a four-year agreement signed in 2021. Boxxer is home to a roster of professional boxers, including champions, Olympic medallists and unbeaten contenders, isuch as Natasha Jonas, Savannah Marshall, Joshua Buatsi, Liam Smith, Richard Riakporhe and more. Now, live broadcasts of Boxxer events on Mola’s platform will bring fight fans in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore closer to the action than ever before.
Commenting on the renewal, Boxxer’s founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re very pleased to announce the extension of our partnership with Mola for 2023, allowing viewers in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to keep enjoying our best-in-class boxing content. Boxxer’s international footprint is growing at pace and Mola’s innovative OTT and SVOD platform means it’s an ideal fit for a partnership with our own disruptive sport/entertainment product.”
|
|
|
|
Boxxer reaches distribution deal for three Asian countries
Boxxer announced the renewal of its exclusive media rights partnership with Mola in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The next event takes place on March 25th at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, headlined by WBO cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie, who defends his title against mandatory challenger from New Zealand, David Light. Mola is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia – the world’s fourth most populous country behind the US, China and India. Mola is owned and operated by Djarum Group’s subsidiary, Polytron, and is currently available in seven territories globally. The platform’s extensive programming portfolio includes live and on-demand rights to a host of international sports leagues and properties, whilst offering an expansive on-demand library of films, TV series and original programming.
Boxxer already has a distribution deal with Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland, a four-year agreement signed in 2021. Boxxer is home to a roster of professional boxers, including champions, Olympic medallists and unbeaten contenders, isuch as Natasha Jonas, Savannah Marshall, Joshua Buatsi, Liam Smith, Richard Riakporhe and more. Now, live broadcasts of Boxxer events on Mola’s platform will bring fight fans in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore closer to the action than ever before.
Commenting on the renewal, Boxxer’s founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re very pleased to announce the extension of our partnership with Mola for 2023, allowing viewers in Italy, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore to keep enjoying our best-in-class boxing content. Boxxer’s international footprint is growing at pace and Mola’s innovative OTT and SVOD platform means it’s an ideal fit for a partnership with our own disruptive sport/entertainment product.”
|
Antonio Mireles added to ESPN+ broadcast |
|
Heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles is ready for prime time. The 6'9", 270-pound southpaw will return in a six-round clash against Patrick Mailata (6-1, 3 KOs) on Saturday, March 25th at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. Mireles-Mailata will open the televised tripleheader headlined by the junior welterweight showdown between Jose Ramirez and Richard “RC” Commey and the minimumweight title unification bout between WBA champion Seniesa Estrada and WBC queen Tina Rupprecht. Ramirez-Commey, Estrada-Rupprecht and Mireles-Mailata will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $29 are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.
Mireles (6-0, 6 KOs) is a Mexican-American from Des Moines, Iowa. As an amateur, he won several national tournaments and signed with Top Rank in September 2021. Mireles made his pro debut the following month on the undercard of the Emanuel Navarrete-Joet Gonzalez main event in San Diego. Under the tutelage of Robert Garcia, he has maintained a 100 percent knockout ratio and is coming off a first-round knockout against Eric Perry last November.
Mailata is a Samoan-born boxer who had a decorated amateur career representing New Zealand. Mailata has won two straight since a majority decision loss to Kingsley Ibeh.
|
|
|
|
Antonio Mireles added to ESPN+ broadcast
Heavyweight Antonio “El Gigante” Mireles is ready for prime time. The 6'9", 270-pound southpaw will return in a six-round clash against Patrick Mailata (6-1, 3 KOs) on Saturday, March 25th at Save Mart Center in Fresno, California. Mireles-Mailata will open the televised tripleheader headlined by the junior welterweight showdown between Jose Ramirez and Richard “RC” Commey and the minimumweight title unification bout between WBA champion Seniesa Estrada and WBC queen Tina Rupprecht. Ramirez-Commey, Estrada-Rupprecht and Mireles-Mailata will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. Promoted by Top Rank, in association with DiBella Entertainment, tickets starting at $29 are on sale now at www.ticketmaster.com.
Mireles (6-0, 6 KOs) is a Mexican-American from Des Moines, Iowa. As an amateur, he won several national tournaments and signed with Top Rank in September 2021. Mireles made his pro debut the following month on the undercard of the Emanuel Navarrete-Joet Gonzalez main event in San Diego. Under the tutelage of Robert Garcia, he has maintained a 100 percent knockout ratio and is coming off a first-round knockout against Eric Perry last November.
Mailata is a Samoan-born boxer who had a decorated amateur career representing New Zealand. Mailata has won two straight since a majority decision loss to Kingsley Ibeh.
|
Charr suffers legal loss as WBA dismissed from lawsuit; charges against DKP remain |
|
Former WBA regular heavyweight champion Mahmoud Charr a/k/a Manuel Charr has lost his lawsuit against the WBA because he failed to follow the WBA's rules for internal appeals before suing. In legal terms, Judge William P. Dimitrouleas of the Southern District of Florida dismissed the lawsuit for failure to exhaust administrative remedies. Charr was stripped of the WBA secondary title after a 2021 dispute with promoter Don King. Charr still has his lawsuit pending against Don King Productions and King himself, but the WBA may never have to answer Charr's claims that King and his company illegally provided the WBA and its president Gilberto Mendoza, Jr. with money and things of value in exchange for making King's boxer, Trevor Bryan, the mandatory contender for Charr's title. Charr was supposed to defend his title against Bryan, but with King balking at puttig on the fight, Charr was stripped of his title and Bryan instead fought a hand-picked opponent (Bermane Stiverne) to win Charr's title without having to face Charr. The WBA issued a news release stating, the "court’s lengthy document explains that the plaintiff could have followed the regular procedures of the WBA’s internal rules, but by not doing so, three charges Charr’s team had filed against the organization were dismissed."
Paraphrasing the court's decision, the WBA argued that because it was sued based on allegations that it failed to follow its own rules, Charr also had to follow WBA rules, including the WBA rules which require him to exhaust his administrative remedies prior to bringing suing in court. Upon consideration, the court agreed with the WBA that "regardless of the form or theory of the individual claims pled against WBA, each of Charr’s claims against WBA is rooted in allegations that WBA violated or failed to enforce its own rules and regulations governing the purported actions and events at issue. Defendant WBA contends that Charr’s claims against WBA must be dismissed for failure to state a claim... because he has made no effort to comply with the contractually required remedies contained in the WBA Rules. The court agrees. The Amended Complaint fails to adequately allege that this condition precedent to suit has been satisfied, which is fatal to these claims. Charr’s response of futility is unavailing. This argument is impermissibly raised in the response brief, as it was not pled in the Amended Complaint... the futility exception, however, requires more than that the grievance procedures be unpromising... Rather, [Charr] must ordinarily at least have attempted to use the administrative remedies as set forth in the WBA Rules and have been denied meaningful relief... Accordingly, the court will dismiss [Charr's] claims against the WBA.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
FEB. 6, 2023: Here are excerpts from heavyweight Mahmoud Charr's most recent court filing in his lawsuit against the WBA and its president Gilberto Mendoza Jr., as well as Don King Productions and its principal, promoter Don King. Charr, the former WBA regular heavyweight champion,was stripped of his title after a Don King-promoted bout fell through in 2021. The WBA is seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed, and here is Charr's overview as to why the motion to dismiss should be denied: "The WBA’s motion to dismiss heavyweight Mahmoud Charr's lawsuit begins by falsely alleging that Charr was stripped of his WBA regular title because he did not obtain a visa to enter the United States in time to defend his title. This argument amounts to a classic case of victim blaming. The WBA knows that Charr was prevented from obtaining his visa by co-defendants Don King and Don King Productions, Inc. (“the King defendants”) as part of an illicit pay-to-play scheme devised by the WBA and the other defendants in this case. This scheme [allegedly] involved the King defendants illegally providing money and things of value to the WBA and its president Gilberto Mendoza Jr. to artificially elevate the rankings of the King defendants’ fighter, Trevor Bryan, so that the WBA and Mendoza could later replace Charr with Bryan as the new WBA regular champion.
"The WBA nonetheless argues that it stripped Charr of his title because he and his promotional team failed to obtain a visa in time for the title bout against Bryan. However, the evidence attached to the Amended Complaint proves this is false. More specifically, the WBA’s standard purse bid contract states that the “Promoter” (in this case the King defendants) is responsible for obtaining a fighter’s visa.
"Still, the King defendants refused to execute the standard purse bid contract and thereby prevented Charr from obtaining his visa (which could only be issued if Charr presented a signed copy of the contract to authorities). Once it was clear the King defendants blocked Charr from traveling to the United States to defend his title, the WBA, consistent with its role in the scheme, provided no opportunity for Charr to appeal this obstruction. The WBA immediately stripped Charr’s title and sanctioned a new bout between Bryan and another of the King’s fighters, Bermane Stiverne. The WBA similarly inflated Stiverne’s rankings so that he could face Bryan in the bout as Stiverne was otherwise unqualified to contend for the WBA regular heavyweight title.
"The timeline of events exposes the WBA’s involvement: As alleged, in the weeks leading up to the fight, Charr repeatedly asked the King defendants for a copy of the signed bout contract so he could obtain his visa from German authorities. His last request was made to the King defendants on January 26, 2021. Despite being aware of Charr’s troubles obtaining a visa as a result of the King defendants’ obstruction, the WBA proceeded to strip Charr of his title on January 29, 2021 (three days later) and thereafter anointed Bryan the new WBA regular heavyweight Champion. At least one WBA official later confirmed it was Mendoza’s decision to strip Charr of his title. In other words, even if the WBA had afforded Charr an opportunity to file an appeal based on the King defendants’ obstruction, the WBA, Mendoza, and the King defendants maneuvered the situation to ensure any appeal would be futile as they knew Mendoza had the final say and the WBA rules did not award damages to a fighter in this situation.
"To no surprise, the WBA spins a completely different narrative in its motion while ignoring the fact that its Rules concerning the ratings criteria for fighters were clearly violated by inflating the rankings of the King defendants’ fighters, Bryan and Stiverne. Because Charr has pled sufficient ultimate facts to support his claims, and because these claims arise from tortious conduct committed by the WBA in Florida and from the WBA’s violations of federal statutes (neither of which implicates WBA rules and/or the WBA’s internal dispute process), the Court should deny the WBA’s Motion to Dismiss Counts I, II, VI, and VII."
|
|
|
|
Charr suffers legal loss as WBA dismissed from lawsuit; charges against DKP remain
Former WBA regular heavyweight champion Mahmoud Charr a/k/a Manuel Charr has lost his lawsuit against the WBA because he failed to follow the WBA's rules for internal appeals before suing. In legal terms, Judge William P. Dimitrouleas of the Southern District of Florida dismissed the lawsuit for failure to exhaust administrative remedies. Charr was stripped of the WBA secondary title after a 2021 dispute with promoter Don King. Charr still has his lawsuit pending against Don King Productions and King himself, but the WBA may never have to answer Charr's claims that King and his company illegally provided the WBA and its president Gilberto Mendoza, Jr. with money and things of value in exchange for making King's boxer, Trevor Bryan, the mandatory contender for Charr's title. Charr was supposed to defend his title against Bryan, but with King balking at puttig on the fight, Charr was stripped of his title and Bryan instead fought a hand-picked opponent (Bermane Stiverne) to win Charr's title without having to face Charr. The WBA issued a news release stating, the "court’s lengthy document explains that the plaintiff could have followed the regular procedures of the WBA’s internal rules, but by not doing so, three charges Charr’s team had filed against the organization were dismissed."
Paraphrasing the court's decision, the WBA argued that because it was sued based on allegations that it failed to follow its own rules, Charr also had to follow WBA rules, including the WBA rules which require him to exhaust his administrative remedies prior to bringing suing in court. Upon consideration, the court agreed with the WBA that "regardless of the form or theory of the individual claims pled against WBA, each of Charr’s claims against WBA is rooted in allegations that WBA violated or failed to enforce its own rules and regulations governing the purported actions and events at issue. Defendant WBA contends that Charr’s claims against WBA must be dismissed for failure to state a claim... because he has made no effort to comply with the contractually required remedies contained in the WBA Rules. The court agrees. The Amended Complaint fails to adequately allege that this condition precedent to suit has been satisfied, which is fatal to these claims. Charr’s response of futility is unavailing. This argument is impermissibly raised in the response brief, as it was not pled in the Amended Complaint... the futility exception, however, requires more than that the grievance procedures be unpromising... Rather, [Charr] must ordinarily at least have attempted to use the administrative remedies as set forth in the WBA Rules and have been denied meaningful relief... Accordingly, the court will dismiss [Charr's] claims against the WBA.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
FEB. 6, 2023: Here are excerpts from heavyweight Mahmoud Charr's most recent court filing in his lawsuit against the WBA and its president Gilberto Mendoza Jr., as well as Don King Productions and its principal, promoter Don King. Charr, the former WBA regular heavyweight champion,was stripped of his title after a Don King-promoted bout fell through in 2021. The WBA is seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed, and here is Charr's overview as to why the motion to dismiss should be denied: "The WBA’s motion to dismiss heavyweight Mahmoud Charr's lawsuit begins by falsely alleging that Charr was stripped of his WBA regular title because he did not obtain a visa to enter the United States in time to defend his title. This argument amounts to a classic case of victim blaming. The WBA knows that Charr was prevented from obtaining his visa by co-defendants Don King and Don King Productions, Inc. (“the King defendants”) as part of an illicit pay-to-play scheme devised by the WBA and the other defendants in this case. This scheme [allegedly] involved the King defendants illegally providing money and things of value to the WBA and its president Gilberto Mendoza Jr. to artificially elevate the rankings of the King defendants’ fighter, Trevor Bryan, so that the WBA and Mendoza could later replace Charr with Bryan as the new WBA regular champion.
"The WBA nonetheless argues that it stripped Charr of his title because he and his promotional team failed to obtain a visa in time for the title bout against Bryan. However, the evidence attached to the Amended Complaint proves this is false. More specifically, the WBA’s standard purse bid contract states that the “Promoter” (in this case the King defendants) is responsible for obtaining a fighter’s visa.
"Still, the King defendants refused to execute the standard purse bid contract and thereby prevented Charr from obtaining his visa (which could only be issued if Charr presented a signed copy of the contract to authorities). Once it was clear the King defendants blocked Charr from traveling to the United States to defend his title, the WBA, consistent with its role in the scheme, provided no opportunity for Charr to appeal this obstruction. The WBA immediately stripped Charr’s title and sanctioned a new bout between Bryan and another of the King’s fighters, Bermane Stiverne. The WBA similarly inflated Stiverne’s rankings so that he could face Bryan in the bout as Stiverne was otherwise unqualified to contend for the WBA regular heavyweight title.
"The timeline of events exposes the WBA’s involvement: As alleged, in the weeks leading up to the fight, Charr repeatedly asked the King defendants for a copy of the signed bout contract so he could obtain his visa from German authorities. His last request was made to the King defendants on January 26, 2021. Despite being aware of Charr’s troubles obtaining a visa as a result of the King defendants’ obstruction, the WBA proceeded to strip Charr of his title on January 29, 2021 (three days later) and thereafter anointed Bryan the new WBA regular heavyweight Champion. At least one WBA official later confirmed it was Mendoza’s decision to strip Charr of his title. In other words, even if the WBA had afforded Charr an opportunity to file an appeal based on the King defendants’ obstruction, the WBA, Mendoza, and the King defendants maneuvered the situation to ensure any appeal would be futile as they knew Mendoza had the final say and the WBA rules did not award damages to a fighter in this situation.
"To no surprise, the WBA spins a completely different narrative in its motion while ignoring the fact that its Rules concerning the ratings criteria for fighters were clearly violated by inflating the rankings of the King defendants’ fighters, Bryan and Stiverne. Because Charr has pled sufficient ultimate facts to support his claims, and because these claims arise from tortious conduct committed by the WBA in Florida and from the WBA’s violations of federal statutes (neither of which implicates WBA rules and/or the WBA’s internal dispute process), the Court should deny the WBA’s Motion to Dismiss Counts I, II, VI, and VII."
|
WBA orders Hector Garcia vs. Lamont Roach |
|
The WBA Championships Committee has notified its 130-pound champion, Hector Garcia of the Dominican Republic, that his mandatory opponent is Lamont Roach of the Washington D.C. area. Garcia is coming off a stoppage loss to Gervonta Davis, but that fight was held at lightweight, so he was able to maintain recognition as a WBA champion. He won the WBA belt on August 20, 2022 and, as indicated by the rules of the body, he has nine months to face his mandatory opponent and that deadline expires on May 20th. So, as the WBA rule C-13 indicates, the notification to the parties involved is made sixty days before the expiration of such period. Roach is 23-1-1, with the loss coming in a WBO title shot vs. Jamel Herring in 2019. In 2021, Roach defeated foirmer WBA champion Rene Alvarado. The two boxers have thirty days to negotiate and send the contracts to the WBA Championships Committee (until April 19th). Should any of the parties express their unwillingness to negotiate, the WBA will call for a purse bid auction, the percentage of which will be divided as follows: 75% for the champion and 25% for the mandatory challenger.
|
|
|
|
WBA orders Hector Garcia vs. Lamont Roach
The WBA Championships Committee has notified its 130-pound champion, Hector Garcia of the Dominican Republic, that his mandatory opponent is Lamont Roach of the Washington D.C. area. Garcia is coming off a stoppage loss to Gervonta Davis, but that fight was held at lightweight, so he was able to maintain recognition as a WBA champion. He won the WBA belt on August 20, 2022 and, as indicated by the rules of the body, he has nine months to face his mandatory opponent and that deadline expires on May 20th. So, as the WBA rule C-13 indicates, the notification to the parties involved is made sixty days before the expiration of such period. Roach is 23-1-1, with the loss coming in a WBO title shot vs. Jamel Herring in 2019. In 2021, Roach defeated foirmer WBA champion Rene Alvarado. The two boxers have thirty days to negotiate and send the contracts to the WBA Championships Committee (until April 19th). Should any of the parties express their unwillingness to negotiate, the WBA will call for a purse bid auction, the percentage of which will be divided as follows: 75% for the champion and 25% for the mandatory challenger.
|
Fundora vs. Mendoza presser quotes |
|
Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (pictured) and Brian Mendoza previewed their battle for Fundora’s WBC interim junior middleweight title during a virtual press conference on Monday before they meet on Saturday, April 8th live on Showtime from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. Two more fights round out the Showtime Championship Boxing telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, as undefeated junuior welterweight Brandun Lee takes on Mexico’s Pedro Campa and undefeated featherweights Luis “The Twist” Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in a pair of ten rounders. Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com. Fundora has established himself as a must-see contender on the rise, engaging in exciting clash after exciting clash, including one of 2022’s best fights, an instant classic that saw him stop top contender Erickson Lubin. He will face the upset-minded Mendoza, who scored a career-best victory last time out by knocking out former unified champion Jeison Rosario.
Here is what the fighters had to say Monday:
SEBASTIAN FUNDORA
“I feel like I’ve been proving myself over and over again. We’re waiting for our shot to fight for the title. They keep putting guys in front of me who they say will knock me out or expose me, but I keep proving them wrong.
“Camp has been really good for me. We’ve been training hard and getting ready for another exciting fight in Carson. Just expect fireworks. I’m bringing my best, so I hope he brings his best.
“I’m always ready to go toe-to-toe. Everyone I fought has been strong guys and Mendoza is another. We’re just going to go for the win like always.
“This fight is as important as every other fight before. Mendoza is a contender as well and we’re not looking at him lightly. We have to get past Mendoza if we want to even think of fighting for the championship.
“Mendoza had a great performance in his last fight and he looked strong. I didn’t see anything different from him really. We knew he was strong.
“I’m just building up. My dad and I had plans that we talked about and we talked about contending and fighting for a title around this age. Things are working out. We’re where we want to be and just looking to get that title fight soon.
“We’re going to have to see what he brings on April 8. I have to prove myself again. We both have chips on our shoulders. We want to become champions and we have to win on April 8 to do so.
“I feel like some people are trying to skip me in order for the title, but I’m remaining patient and staying focused on this fight. I just have to keep moving forward while everything else gets dealt with.
“I’m using my jab and using my distance more. I’ve always been able to do it, but I’m more comfortable with it now. Lubin was really in my chest, so the fight didn’t really call for it. Against Ocampo I was able to use those skills more.
“We never pick anybody, I just get the assignment and go for it. Mendoza is coming off a big win and we said ‘heck yeah’ to the fight. It’s a good fight for the fans and a good fight for us.
“Mendoza is gonna find out that I’m the next world champion at super welterweight.”
BRIAN MENDOZA
“When I said I was going to add a former unified champion to my resume, people scoffed and laughed at me. I just thought, ‘Okay, keep laughing.’ You don’t have to believe me. I’m going to show you with my actions. That’s what I’m going to do in this fight. I’m gonna show that I’m one of the best in this division. That’s the goal. I’m going to pull off another big upset.
“Fans can expect another explosive performance. I’ve had a tremendous camp and I’ve been killing myself day in and day out, suffering every single day making sure that I leave no stone unturned. We’re just ready to go. I wish the fight was tomorrow.
“I’ve sacrificed so much in camp to make sure that I’m ready for whatever happens on fight night. If he tries to use his range or he tries to bang like usual, we’ll be ready for anything. I’ve had great preparation, even sparring with cruiserweights in this camp. It’s a cliché, but I will truly be ready for anything.
“His height isn’t going to be an issue. I’ve been fighting and sparring guys taller than me my whole life. I’m usually the shorter guy at 154 pounds anyways. It doesn’t make a difference. I haven’t had any trouble in sparring with guys who try to keep me away or with guys who try to overpower me because they’re bigger. I have too much experience and that’s what’s going to be the difference.
“I’m not going to go in there and play to his strengths. It’s about me proving who I am to the world. The experience that I have right now is unreal. These last five years in Vegas have been tremendous. People think I’m just a hard-hitter, but I’m going to show the world otherwise.
“We’re going to hear, ‘And the new interim WBC Super Welterweight World Champion.’ Fundora is going to learn that I’m a lot more than just a power-puncher.
“A win in this fight would mean everything. I’m trying to get to that next level and I finally feel like I have the right team around me. I feel like I have the right experience and I’m in my prime. I’m entering my prime and the time is now.
“Fighting at Dignity Health Sports Park is an honor. It’s a legendary place. Tons of wars have happened there. I want to cement my name as part of one of those wars and one of those big fights that went down there. This could be a Fight of the Year type of fight. Neither of us are going to take a step back.
“I just gained a lot of great experience in the Jeison Rosario fight. He was a former unified world champion. I picked up some tricks and tips from the fight but the biggest thing I took was just the experience of being in the ring with somebody like that.
“I’m honestly kind of enjoying the whole ‘B-side’ experience. It just makes the victory that much sweeter.”
|
|
|
|
Fundora vs. Mendoza presser quotes
Sebastián “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (pictured) and Brian Mendoza previewed their battle for Fundora’s WBC interim junior middleweight title during a virtual press conference on Monday before they meet on Saturday, April 8th live on Showtime from Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, Calif., headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event. Two more fights round out the Showtime Championship Boxing telecast beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT, as undefeated junuior welterweight Brandun Lee takes on Mexico’s Pedro Campa and undefeated featherweights Luis “The Twist” Núñez and Christian Olivo square off in a pair of ten rounders. Tickets for the event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing are on sale now and can be purchased at axs.com. Fundora has established himself as a must-see contender on the rise, engaging in exciting clash after exciting clash, including one of 2022’s best fights, an instant classic that saw him stop top contender Erickson Lubin. He will face the upset-minded Mendoza, who scored a career-best victory last time out by knocking out former unified champion Jeison Rosario.
Here is what the fighters had to say Monday:
SEBASTIAN FUNDORA
“I feel like I’ve been proving myself over and over again. We’re waiting for our shot to fight for the title. They keep putting guys in front of me who they say will knock me out or expose me, but I keep proving them wrong.
“Camp has been really good for me. We’ve been training hard and getting ready for another exciting fight in Carson. Just expect fireworks. I’m bringing my best, so I hope he brings his best.
“I’m always ready to go toe-to-toe. Everyone I fought has been strong guys and Mendoza is another. We’re just going to go for the win like always.
“This fight is as important as every other fight before. Mendoza is a contender as well and we’re not looking at him lightly. We have to get past Mendoza if we want to even think of fighting for the championship.
“Mendoza had a great performance in his last fight and he looked strong. I didn’t see anything different from him really. We knew he was strong.
“I’m just building up. My dad and I had plans that we talked about and we talked about contending and fighting for a title around this age. Things are working out. We’re where we want to be and just looking to get that title fight soon.
“We’re going to have to see what he brings on April 8. I have to prove myself again. We both have chips on our shoulders. We want to become champions and we have to win on April 8 to do so.
“I feel like some people are trying to skip me in order for the title, but I’m remaining patient and staying focused on this fight. I just have to keep moving forward while everything else gets dealt with.
“I’m using my jab and using my distance more. I’ve always been able to do it, but I’m more comfortable with it now. Lubin was really in my chest, so the fight didn’t really call for it. Against Ocampo I was able to use those skills more.
“We never pick anybody, I just get the assignment and go for it. Mendoza is coming off a big win and we said ‘heck yeah’ to the fight. It’s a good fight for the fans and a good fight for us.
“Mendoza is gonna find out that I’m the next world champion at super welterweight.”
BRIAN MENDOZA
“When I said I was going to add a former unified champion to my resume, people scoffed and laughed at me. I just thought, ‘Okay, keep laughing.’ You don’t have to believe me. I’m going to show you with my actions. That’s what I’m going to do in this fight. I’m gonna show that I’m one of the best in this division. That’s the goal. I’m going to pull off another big upset.
“Fans can expect another explosive performance. I’ve had a tremendous camp and I’ve been killing myself day in and day out, suffering every single day making sure that I leave no stone unturned. We’re just ready to go. I wish the fight was tomorrow.
“I’ve sacrificed so much in camp to make sure that I’m ready for whatever happens on fight night. If he tries to use his range or he tries to bang like usual, we’ll be ready for anything. I’ve had great preparation, even sparring with cruiserweights in this camp. It’s a cliché, but I will truly be ready for anything.
“His height isn’t going to be an issue. I’ve been fighting and sparring guys taller than me my whole life. I’m usually the shorter guy at 154 pounds anyways. It doesn’t make a difference. I haven’t had any trouble in sparring with guys who try to keep me away or with guys who try to overpower me because they’re bigger. I have too much experience and that’s what’s going to be the difference.
“I’m not going to go in there and play to his strengths. It’s about me proving who I am to the world. The experience that I have right now is unreal. These last five years in Vegas have been tremendous. People think I’m just a hard-hitter, but I’m going to show the world otherwise.
“We’re going to hear, ‘And the new interim WBC Super Welterweight World Champion.’ Fundora is going to learn that I’m a lot more than just a power-puncher.
“A win in this fight would mean everything. I’m trying to get to that next level and I finally feel like I have the right team around me. I feel like I have the right experience and I’m in my prime. I’m entering my prime and the time is now.
“Fighting at Dignity Health Sports Park is an honor. It’s a legendary place. Tons of wars have happened there. I want to cement my name as part of one of those wars and one of those big fights that went down there. This could be a Fight of the Year type of fight. Neither of us are going to take a step back.
“I just gained a lot of great experience in the Jeison Rosario fight. He was a former unified world champion. I picked up some tricks and tips from the fight but the biggest thing I took was just the experience of being in the ring with somebody like that.
“I’m honestly kind of enjoying the whole ‘B-side’ experience. It just makes the victory that much sweeter.”
|
Introducing Team Combat League |
|
|
Team Combat League announced the introduction of a new boxing team sport. Brawling utilizes traditional boxing rules, is regulated by boxing commission officials, but differs from the sweet science in that each fighter fights a one-round bout. Each round is scored individually, and points awarded count towards the respective teams totals. Rules of the new sport can be found at teamcombatleague.com. Each team will fight twelve consecutive weeks during the regular season. The four highest ranked teams will fight in a one-night semi-final doubleheader, and the final two teams to advance will square off the TCL MegaBrawl 1 to crown the season one champion. Team Combat League’s inaugural season will involve matches between eight franchises which include:
LA Ten Goose
NYC Attitude
Philadelphia Smoke
Las Vegas Hustle
Dallas Enforcers
San Antonio Snipers
Atlanta Attack
DC Destroyers
Team Combat League Brawling matches will feature fighters from six weight classes:
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Male Welterweight 147lbs
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Male Heavyweight 201lbs+
There are two halves of twelve rounds in each TCL match, for a total of 24 rounds per contest. Each team dresses 3 fighters per weight class. Each fighter may fight a maximum of one round per half.
The historic opening nights of Team Combat League will feature all 8 teams in action and will take place at Mohegan Sun Expo Center on Wednesday March 29th and Thursday March 30th. Streaming of all TCL matches will be available for $12.99 exclusively at TeamCombatLeague.com. This inaugural season will conclude with the TCL MegaBrawl 1, currently scheduled to take place on Sunday July 9, 2023.
“We believe Brawling will extend the appeal of boxing to fans who have not traditionally been fans of combat sports”, said Ahmed Sheikh CEO of Team Combat League. “Our sport contains more than 2.5 times the action per match as compared to baseball, basketball, football, and hockey. We believe the all-out brawls in our fights will have everyone watching on the edge of their seats.”
“We are extremely excited to be introducing a new combat sport that is designed to appeal to a new generation of fans,” said respected combat expert Dewey Cooper, the President of Team Combat League. “Our sport combines the science of boxing with the fast-paced action of MMA. We can’t wait for fans to get the opportunity to enjoy what we have created. I challenge anyone to view our sport and not get hooked.”
About Team Combat League:
Team Combat League competitions employ a unique and exclusive point scoring system. Each match contains 24 three-minute rounds of nonstop action with a 10-minute halftime after round 12. Teams compete across six weight categories, five male and one female. Each round is scored individually with additional points added for knockouts and knockdowns. There are 3 judges appointed by a licensed boxing commission. 3 points are awarded for unanimous decisions while a split decision would be 2 points for the winner of the round’s team and 1 point to the loser. Additional points are awarded for each judged knockdown with a maximum of 6 points for a round stoppage. It’s not rocket science, at the conclusion of the 24 rounds, the team with the most points wins!
|
|
|
|
Introducing Team Combat League
Team Combat League announced the introduction of a new boxing team sport. Brawling utilizes traditional boxing rules, is regulated by boxing commission officials, but differs from the sweet science in that each fighter fights a one-round bout. Each round is scored individually, and points awarded count towards the respective teams totals. Rules of the new sport can be found at teamcombatleague.com. Each team will fight twelve consecutive weeks during the regular season. The four highest ranked teams will fight in a one-night semi-final doubleheader, and the final two teams to advance will square off the TCL MegaBrawl 1 to crown the season one champion. Team Combat League’s inaugural season will involve matches between eight franchises which include:
LA Ten Goose
NYC Attitude
Philadelphia Smoke
Las Vegas Hustle
Dallas Enforcers
San Antonio Snipers
Atlanta Attack
DC Destroyers
Team Combat League Brawling matches will feature fighters from six weight classes:
Female Featherweight 126lbs
Male Lightweight 135lbs
Male Welterweight 147lbs
Male Middleweight 160lbs
Male Light Heavyweight 175lbs
Male Heavyweight 201lbs+
There are two halves of twelve rounds in each TCL match, for a total of 24 rounds per contest. Each team dresses 3 fighters per weight class. Each fighter may fight a maximum of one round per half.
The historic opening nights of Team Combat League will feature all 8 teams in action and will take place at Mohegan Sun Expo Center on Wednesday March 29th and Thursday March 30th. Streaming of all TCL matches will be available for $12.99 exclusively at TeamCombatLeague.com. This inaugural season will conclude with the TCL MegaBrawl 1, currently scheduled to take place on Sunday July 9, 2023.
“We believe Brawling will extend the appeal of boxing to fans who have not traditionally been fans of combat sports”, said Ahmed Sheikh CEO of Team Combat League. “Our sport contains more than 2.5 times the action per match as compared to baseball, basketball, football, and hockey. We believe the all-out brawls in our fights will have everyone watching on the edge of their seats.”
“We are extremely excited to be introducing a new combat sport that is designed to appeal to a new generation of fans,” said respected combat expert Dewey Cooper, the President of Team Combat League. “Our sport combines the science of boxing with the fast-paced action of MMA. We can’t wait for fans to get the opportunity to enjoy what we have created. I challenge anyone to view our sport and not get hooked.”
About Team Combat League:
Team Combat League competitions employ a unique and exclusive point scoring system. Each match contains 24 three-minute rounds of nonstop action with a 10-minute halftime after round 12. Teams compete across six weight categories, five male and one female. Each round is scored individually with additional points added for knockouts and knockdowns. There are 3 judges appointed by a licensed boxing commission. 3 points are awarded for unanimous decisions while a split decision would be 2 points for the winner of the round’s team and 1 point to the loser. Additional points are awarded for each judged knockdown with a maximum of 6 points for a round stoppage. It’s not rocket science, at the conclusion of the 24 rounds, the team with the most points wins!
|
The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Mohammedi wins battle of unbeatens |
|
Souleimane Mohammedi W8 Jairo Delgado ... French super middleweight Souleimane Mohammedi improved to 11-0-1 with 1 KO by defeating Colombia's Jairo Delgado (8-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round battle of unbeatens held in France. Mohammedi dominated the tough and durable Colombian. Delgado did not stop looking for the knockout throughout the fight, but Mohammedi’s intelligence and high boxing IQ was reflected in the Judges’ scorecards: 79-73 (twice) and 80-72.
Leonardo Carrillo W10 Moises Garcia ... Super bantamweight Leonardo Carrillo, a Colombian fighting out of Panama, scored a clear victory over Moises Garcia (10-9-1, 4 KOs) on Saturday at the El Panama Hotel in Panama City. Carrillo made the first defense of his crown with scores of 100-90 (twice) and 99-91. Carillo is now 16-1 with 8 KOs.
|
|
|
|
The Boxingtalk Scoreboard: Mohammedi wins battle of unbeatens
Souleimane Mohammedi W8 Jairo Delgado ... French super middleweight Souleimane Mohammedi improved to 11-0-1 with 1 KO by defeating Colombia's Jairo Delgado (8-1, 8 KOs) in an eight-round battle of unbeatens held in France. Mohammedi dominated the tough and durable Colombian. Delgado did not stop looking for the knockout throughout the fight, but Mohammedi’s intelligence and high boxing IQ was reflected in the Judges’ scorecards: 79-73 (twice) and 80-72.
Leonardo Carrillo W10 Moises Garcia ... Super bantamweight Leonardo Carrillo, a Colombian fighting out of Panama, scored a clear victory over Moises Garcia (10-9-1, 4 KOs) on Saturday at the El Panama Hotel in Panama City. Carrillo made the first defense of his crown with scores of 100-90 (twice) and 99-91. Carillo is now 16-1 with 8 KOs.
|
WBA gives Usyk until April 1st to close Fury unification deal |
|
The president of the WBA, Gilberto Jesus Mendoza, announced that the representatives of three-belt champion Oleksandr Usyk (pictured) and WBC champion Tyson Fury will have until April 1st to agree on the terms of a world heavyweight championship unification bout. If that deadline is not met, the WBA says it will order Usyk to defend against WBA regular champion Daniel Dubois. According to the WBA, "Last March 10th was the deadline for the initial negotiations granted by the WBA. After the WBA announced the situation, Usyk and Fury’s teams contacted each other to inform that the pact was on its way and that the fight was going to take place. Now, the WBA has given them this new deadline that expires on April 1st and hopes that the fight can take place, since it is what the fans are asking for and what the whole boxing world is waiting for. If it does not take place on the agreed date, the entity will call Usyk to negotiate with Dubois as the internal regulations state."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE MARCH 13, 2023: After three-belt heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk agreed to take just 30% of the fight revenue in order to get a world unification fight signed with Tyson Fury, the WBC champion added a new condition to the deal: no rematch clause. Fury said this in an IFL-posted video: "Hi, Tyson Fury here… just a quick one. I've been speaking to the lawyers today. Usyk’s people are talking about rematch clauses and all that bollocks. Here's one to up the ante. How about there is no f----n rematch clause for both of us? Let's up the ante completely-- never worry about what's in the future and how many more dollars you can get after you've been defeated. Worry about the fight April 29th. No rematch clause, the winner takes the glory, the loser goes home with his d--k in his hand. How about that? Agree to that, you f----n bitch."
Fury's latest condition came a couple of days after Usyk said in an IFL video that he would take the short end of a purse split to unify the world heavyweight championship: "I accept your offer. 70/30 split. We'll do it April 29th in Wembley (London). But you will promise to donate to the Ukraine one million pounds immediately after the fight... and every day, if you delay, you will pay one percent from your purse to the Ukrainian people... Deal!" Earlier in the day, negotiations for the proposed world heavyweight unification bout between three-belt champion Usyk and the more popular WBC champion Fury went public, with Fury disclosing his negotiating stance in an IFL-posted video. Fury said: "I see all this talk of boxing fights they want 50 percent, Usyk’s all this and Tyson's being greedy. But where I'm standing, Usyk, you and your team are worth 30 percent. You either take it or you leave it. And if you don't want it, go fight [WBA interim champion] Daniel Dubois at the Copper Box and get a few million dollars. [But if] you want to make some real money, come and fight the Gypsy King. But I will say, for every day from today that you linger or mess around, I'm going toa deduct one percent from the 30 percent, so every day, I'm going to deduct one percent until you take it. And if you don't take it, fight Dubois for two million dollars, not a problem. But how in the world could youse ever offer me a deal? Not possible… tick tock, tick tock."
|
|
|
|
WBA gives Usyk until April 1st to close Fury unification deal
The president of the WBA, Gilberto Jesus Mendoza, announced that the representatives of three-belt champion Oleksandr Usyk (pictured) and WBC champion Tyson Fury will have until April 1st to agree on the terms of a world heavyweight championship unification bout. If that deadline is not met, the WBA says it will order Usyk to defend against WBA regular champion Daniel Dubois. According to the WBA, "Last March 10th was the deadline for the initial negotiations granted by the WBA. After the WBA announced the situation, Usyk and Fury’s teams contacted each other to inform that the pact was on its way and that the fight was going to take place. Now, the WBA has given them this new deadline that expires on April 1st and hopes that the fight can take place, since it is what the fans are asking for and what the whole boxing world is waiting for. If it does not take place on the agreed date, the entity will call Usyk to negotiate with Dubois as the internal regulations state."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE MARCH 13, 2023: After three-belt heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk agreed to take just 30% of the fight revenue in order to get a world unification fight signed with Tyson Fury, the WBC champion added a new condition to the deal: no rematch clause. Fury said this in an IFL-posted video: "Hi, Tyson Fury here… just a quick one. I've been speaking to the lawyers today. Usyk’s people are talking about rematch clauses and all that bollocks. Here's one to up the ante. How about there is no f----n rematch clause for both of us? Let's up the ante completely-- never worry about what's in the future and how many more dollars you can get after you've been defeated. Worry about the fight April 29th. No rematch clause, the winner takes the glory, the loser goes home with his d--k in his hand. How about that? Agree to that, you f----n bitch."
Fury's latest condition came a couple of days after Usyk said in an IFL video that he would take the short end of a purse split to unify the world heavyweight championship: "I accept your offer. 70/30 split. We'll do it April 29th in Wembley (London). But you will promise to donate to the Ukraine one million pounds immediately after the fight... and every day, if you delay, you will pay one percent from your purse to the Ukrainian people... Deal!" Earlier in the day, negotiations for the proposed world heavyweight unification bout between three-belt champion Usyk and the more popular WBC champion Fury went public, with Fury disclosing his negotiating stance in an IFL-posted video. Fury said: "I see all this talk of boxing fights they want 50 percent, Usyk’s all this and Tyson's being greedy. But where I'm standing, Usyk, you and your team are worth 30 percent. You either take it or you leave it. And if you don't want it, go fight [WBA interim champion] Daniel Dubois at the Copper Box and get a few million dollars. [But if] you want to make some real money, come and fight the Gypsy King. But I will say, for every day from today that you linger or mess around, I'm going toa deduct one percent from the 30 percent, so every day, I'm going to deduct one percent until you take it. And if you don't take it, fight Dubois for two million dollars, not a problem. But how in the world could youse ever offer me a deal? Not possible… tick tock, tick tock."
|
Predictions for Saturday: Shawn Porter picks Caleb Plant, but most favor David Benavidez |
|
Boxing’s top fighters, media members and more weighed in on the upcoming blockbuster super middleweight fight between undefeated former two-time WBC champion David “The Mexican Monster’’ Benavídez and former IBF champion Caleb Plant ahead of their twelve-round showdown headlining live on Showtime pay-per-view this Saturday, March 25th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Of the 29 people polled for their predictions – 21 of them are forecasting victory for Benavidez in a close and compelling fight, while five favor Plant, two were unable to pick a winner, plus one who said matching these two superstars was a clear victory for boxing.
The oddsmakers at DraftKings have the fight closer than displayed by those polled, with Benavidez placed as the favorite at -330 (a $330 bet placed will win $100) and Plant +240 ($100 bet placed wins $240) while the Bet MGM Sports Book has Benavidez -275 and Plant +225.
Here is what those closest to the fight game had to say about the Benavidez-Plant matchup:
SHAWN PORTER (pictured), Former welterweight champion
“It's a 50/50 fight but I think Caleb takes it. Something's telling me Caleb is in the right place at the right time. I truly think he's going to break down David, and he's going to frustrate David. He's bringing a lot to the ring that David has never been up against. David's spoiled with his pressure. He breaks everyone down, but I don't think he'll be able to do that to Caleb, so I’m picking Caleb in a late-round stoppage.”
JERMELL CHARLO, Reigning world junior middleweight champion
“I’m rocking with Plant. Plant has the boxing skills. Benavidez is just one-dimensional. He’s going to come forward and put a lot of pressure on Plant. But styles make fights and so this is going to be a good one. But I’m rocking with Plant.”
REY VARGAS, WBC featherweight champion
"Plant-Benavidez will be a very even fight, 50-50. Strategy will be the key factor for whoever comes out on top. Plant has his speed and waist movement. Benavidez with his explosiveness and his strength. I truly believe it is 50/50. I have to lean on the Mexican side, because of that strength and explosiveness."
BRANDON FIGUEROA, Current WBC interim featherweight titleholder
“I'm rooting for Benavidez all the way. I see him knocking (Plant) out in the eighth or ninth round.”
AMANDA SERRANO, Reigning world featherweight champion
"I usually don't like to make predictions for fights. You just never know in boxing. However, I am going to make one this time for Benavidez vs. Plant. I really do like Plant. I think he is a really nice guy, great fighter. However, for this fight, I have to go with Benavidez.”
GEORGE KAMBOSOS, JR., Former world lightweight champion
“This is a 50/50 matchup. From my point of view Caleb Plant has had better experience and looks in great shape. We saw in his last fight he does have that nice snap, that power and he will definitely out-box Benavidez. I don’t think he will knock him out, but he can hurt him. I’m going with Caleb Plant on a close points decision.”
CALEB TRUAX, Former IBF super middleweight champion
“This is a great super middleweight fight and a big win for boxing. I see it going similarly to Canelo-Plant. Plant will have success early due to his feet and jab, and then Benavidez's pressure and power get him the late stoppage. I'm pulling for Plant to win, being that he is a former opponent of mine.”
DAVID MORRELL, current WBA regular super middleweight champion
“It's a 50/50 fight. Benavidez has power, but he has never fought against someone with moves like Plant, who will make life hard for him with his speed. I would love to pick a winner, but I just can't, considering how even this fight truly is.”
ANDY RUIZ, JR., Former three-belt heavyweight champion
"I got my money on Benavidez. He is just a bigger fighter, a stronger guy, ‘The Mexican Monster’. Nothing against Caleb, he is a warrior and we all risk our lives in the ring, but I just feel like Benavidez will be too much.”
YORDENIS UGAS, Former WBA welterweight champion
“I was initially going to say 50/50, but now I’m going to lean in favor of Benavidez, 55-45 in his favor.”
VLADIMIR SHISHKIN, Undefeated super middleweight
“This is a great fight between two elite fighters in the division. I favor Benavidez, but Plant showed improvement after the Canelo fight and that means he is coming to win. I will not be overly surprised if Plant is able to score a points upset over Benavidez.”
BOB SANTOS, Sports Illustrated 2022 Trainer of the Year
“I think Benavidez vs. Plant is going to be a tremendous fight in the early rounds. Plant will be having some success moving and boxing, but towards the middle rounds Benavidez will take over and win the fight. That said, I think it’s going to be a tremendous fight and both guys' stock is going to go up.”
KEITH IDEC, journalist
“Benavidez by 11th-round TKO. Plant’s intelligence, movement and skill will enable him to make the most of their fight competitive. The relentless Benavidez pressure and volume punching will eventually wear Plant down, though, and lead to a stoppage in one of the championship rounds.”
KEVIN IOLE, Yahoo! Sports
“David Benavidez W12 Caleb Plant: I love the fight given the talent level of the two and the significance within the division. Plant has everything he needs to win this fight, but I see Benavidez as something of a sleeping giant. He has enormous untapped potential and I believe this fight is coming at the right time for him. I see it as a nailbiter that Benavidez pulls out down the stretch with crisp combination punching.”
DAN RAFAEL, journalist
“It's an outstanding matchup but I think Benavidez will win. Plant is a good boxer but Benavidez is a brutal puncher with excellent power and an excellent chin. Plant may have some success boxing for stretches in a good fight, but Benavidez will break him down and stop him late.”
MICHAEL ROSENTHAL, journalist
“I have a lot of respect for Plant, who I believe is an elite athlete with an elite skill set. And he showed us against Anthony Dirrell that he's no slouch in the power department. I just think that Benavidez has too much firepower for him. He's an offensive juggernaut, a guy who breaks down opponents with ferocious, relentless pressure that has resulted in 23 knockouts in 26 fights. Plant will have some success early, but Benavidez will land more and more punches as the fight progresses and score a late stoppage. Benavidez KO 9.
CLAUDIA TREJOS, journalist
“This will be an explosive fight. Benavidez with the advantage of height and advantage of youth will use his skills to make Plant fall into his fighting style. We can never discount Plant's grit – a boxer who has proven his warrior spirit inside and outside the ring. Benavidez always does his homework and has power to go along with it – a win against Plant puts him on track for the highly anticipated fight against Canelo. I can see Benavidez taking this opportunity to show off his complete tool set. Benavidez by KO in the later rounds.”
JOE SANTOLIQUITO, journalist
“I like Benavidez. I think he's simply too big, and too strong for Plant. Benavidez knows the stakes and will come in acutely prepared. Plant will try to out-box Benavidez and get the fight into the later rounds, but with that comes some risk. Benavidez wins by late-round stoppage.”
ABE GONZALEZ, journalist
“David Benavidez versus Caleb Plant is a dream fight for the purist. I can see Caleb Plant frustrating Benavidez early with his boxing ability and movement. However, in the later rounds, after those Benavidez punches start to add up, he will slow Plant down and stop him around the ninth or tenth round.”
ADRIANA NORIEGA, Fox Deportes
“Benavidez vs. Plant is a great, 50/50 fight. Two contrasting fights that make for a very interesting clash. On one side, you have 'The Mexican Monster' with the physical advantages, power and aggressive style that defines him. I expect Plant to use his sweet hands, his timing, his speed and his footwork to potentially frustrate Benavidez. If the fight ends early, I expect Benavidez to win. If it goes to the judges, Plant has the better chance in my book.”
STEPHEN JACKSON, Former NBA champion and podcast co-host
“Plant is coming off one of the biggest wins of his career. A big knockout after losing to Canelo. He’s in a good space right now. Benavidez has been looking for a fight, he’s one of the dangerous fighters around right now so it’s going to be a good fight. Caleb is still on his high and he has to win this fight to get back to Canelo. Benavidez has been calling out Canelo for years and this is a stepping-stone. If I have to lean toward a side because you put a gun to my head, I’m going to go with Benavidez.”
ROBERT LITTAL, journalist
“I believe this is truly a 50/50 fight with an amazing clash of styles between someone they call the ‘Mexican Monster’ and the other they call ‘Sweethands.’ In the end I think Caleb Plant survives an early assault from Benavidez and uses the knowledge from the Canelo fight and puts on a boxing clinic down the stretch to win a unanimous decision.”
GREG BEACHAM, journalist
“I like Benavidez by late-round stoppage. His toughest opponent has usually been himself, but I still think he can reach his full potential. Benavidez should be motivated by a talented, confident veteran opponent like Plant, who could easily take this fight if Benavidez shows up unfocused or unprepared. Benavidez’s strength and talent are the determining factors for me in an excellent matchup.”
MORGAN CAMPBELL, journalist
“Benavidez by very close decision. Might be split decision, might be majority decision, but I think he’ll win seven rounds.”
LARGE, Barstool Sports
“Although both fighters possess both attributes, I still see this one as strength versus speed. And Benavidez’s power will get to Plant by the late rounds. Benavidez by KO Round 8-10.”
PAUL PIERCE, Former NBA champion and podcast co-host
“I’m going with Plant. That’s my man. I met Caleb Plant – I’ve sat with him at a fight and I had a moment with him so I’m going with Caleb Plant. I ain’t gonna lie though, Benavidez is a beast.”
DEMARCUS COUSINS – Four-Time NBA All-Star
“I do like Plant. I question his power, but Plant is a very skilled boxer. I don’t know though, I might have to go the other way with this one [and pick Benavidez]. Benavidez is a monster.”
|
|
|
|
Predictions for Saturday: Shawn Porter picks Caleb Plant, but most favor David Benavidez
Boxing’s top fighters, media members and more weighed in on the upcoming blockbuster super middleweight fight between undefeated former two-time WBC champion David “The Mexican Monster’’ Benavídez and former IBF champion Caleb Plant ahead of their twelve-round showdown headlining live on Showtime pay-per-view this Saturday, March 25th at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Of the 29 people polled for their predictions – 21 of them are forecasting victory for Benavidez in a close and compelling fight, while five favor Plant, two were unable to pick a winner, plus one who said matching these two superstars was a clear victory for boxing.
The oddsmakers at DraftKings have the fight closer than displayed by those polled, with Benavidez placed as the favorite at -330 (a $330 bet placed will win $100) and Plant +240 ($100 bet placed wins $240) while the Bet MGM Sports Book has Benavidez -275 and Plant +225.
Here is what those closest to the fight game had to say about the Benavidez-Plant matchup:
SHAWN PORTER (pictured), Former welterweight champion
“It's a 50/50 fight but I think Caleb takes it. Something's telling me Caleb is in the right place at the right time. I truly think he's going to break down David, and he's going to frustrate David. He's bringing a lot to the ring that David has never been up against. David's spoiled with his pressure. He breaks everyone down, but I don't think he'll be able to do that to Caleb, so I’m picking Caleb in a late-round stoppage.”
JERMELL CHARLO, Reigning world junior middleweight champion
“I’m rocking with Plant. Plant has the boxing skills. Benavidez is just one-dimensional. He’s going to come forward and put a lot of pressure on Plant. But styles make fights and so this is going to be a good one. But I’m rocking with Plant.”
REY VARGAS, WBC featherweight champion
"Plant-Benavidez will be a very even fight, 50-50. Strategy will be the key factor for whoever comes out on top. Plant has his speed and waist movement. Benavidez with his explosiveness and his strength. I truly believe it is 50/50. I have to lean on the Mexican side, because of that strength and explosiveness."
BRANDON FIGUEROA, Current WBC interim featherweight titleholder
“I'm rooting for Benavidez all the way. I see him knocking (Plant) out in the eighth or ninth round.”
AMANDA SERRANO, Reigning world featherweight champion
"I usually don't like to make predictions for fights. You just never know in boxing. However, I am going to make one this time for Benavidez vs. Plant. I really do like Plant. I think he is a really nice guy, great fighter. However, for this fight, I have to go with Benavidez.”
GEORGE KAMBOSOS, JR., Former world lightweight champion
“This is a 50/50 matchup. From my point of view Caleb Plant has had better experience and looks in great shape. We saw in his last fight he does have that nice snap, that power and he will definitely out-box Benavidez. I don’t think he will knock him out, but he can hurt him. I’m going with Caleb Plant on a close points decision.”
CALEB TRUAX, Former IBF super middleweight champion
“This is a great super middleweight fight and a big win for boxing. I see it going similarly to Canelo-Plant. Plant will have success early due to his feet and jab, and then Benavidez's pressure and power get him the late stoppage. I'm pulling for Plant to win, being that he is a former opponent of mine.”
DAVID MORRELL, current WBA regular super middleweight champion
“It's a 50/50 fight. Benavidez has power, but he has never fought against someone with moves like Plant, who will make life hard for him with his speed. I would love to pick a winner, but I just can't, considering how even this fight truly is.”
ANDY RUIZ, JR., Former three-belt heavyweight champion
"I got my money on Benavidez. He is just a bigger fighter, a stronger guy, ‘The Mexican Monster’. Nothing against Caleb, he is a warrior and we all risk our lives in the ring, but I just feel like Benavidez will be too much.”
YORDENIS UGAS, Former WBA welterweight champion
“I was initially going to say 50/50, but now I’m going to lean in favor of Benavidez, 55-45 in his favor.”
VLADIMIR SHISHKIN, Undefeated super middleweight
“This is a great fight between two elite fighters in the division. I favor Benavidez, but Plant showed improvement after the Canelo fight and that means he is coming to win. I will not be overly surprised if Plant is able to score a points upset over Benavidez.”
BOB SANTOS, Sports Illustrated 2022 Trainer of the Year
“I think Benavidez vs. Plant is going to be a tremendous fight in the early rounds. Plant will be having some success moving and boxing, but towards the middle rounds Benavidez will take over and win the fight. That said, I think it’s going to be a tremendous fight and both guys' stock is going to go up.”
KEITH IDEC, journalist
“Benavidez by 11th-round TKO. Plant’s intelligence, movement and skill will enable him to make the most of their fight competitive. The relentless Benavidez pressure and volume punching will eventually wear Plant down, though, and lead to a stoppage in one of the championship rounds.”
KEVIN IOLE, Yahoo! Sports
“David Benavidez W12 Caleb Plant: I love the fight given the talent level of the two and the significance within the division. Plant has everything he needs to win this fight, but I see Benavidez as something of a sleeping giant. He has enormous untapped potential and I believe this fight is coming at the right time for him. I see it as a nailbiter that Benavidez pulls out down the stretch with crisp combination punching.”
DAN RAFAEL, journalist
“It's an outstanding matchup but I think Benavidez will win. Plant is a good boxer but Benavidez is a brutal puncher with excellent power and an excellent chin. Plant may have some success boxing for stretches in a good fight, but Benavidez will break him down and stop him late.”
MICHAEL ROSENTHAL, journalist
“I have a lot of respect for Plant, who I believe is an elite athlete with an elite skill set. And he showed us against Anthony Dirrell that he's no slouch in the power department. I just think that Benavidez has too much firepower for him. He's an offensive juggernaut, a guy who breaks down opponents with ferocious, relentless pressure that has resulted in 23 knockouts in 26 fights. Plant will have some success early, but Benavidez will land more and more punches as the fight progresses and score a late stoppage. Benavidez KO 9.
CLAUDIA TREJOS, journalist
“This will be an explosive fight. Benavidez with the advantage of height and advantage of youth will use his skills to make Plant fall into his fighting style. We can never discount Plant's grit – a boxer who has proven his warrior spirit inside and outside the ring. Benavidez always does his homework and has power to go along with it – a win against Plant puts him on track for the highly anticipated fight against Canelo. I can see Benavidez taking this opportunity to show off his complete tool set. Benavidez by KO in the later rounds.”
JOE SANTOLIQUITO, journalist
“I like Benavidez. I think he's simply too big, and too strong for Plant. Benavidez knows the stakes and will come in acutely prepared. Plant will try to out-box Benavidez and get the fight into the later rounds, but with that comes some risk. Benavidez wins by late-round stoppage.”
ABE GONZALEZ, journalist
“David Benavidez versus Caleb Plant is a dream fight for the purist. I can see Caleb Plant frustrating Benavidez early with his boxing ability and movement. However, in the later rounds, after those Benavidez punches start to add up, he will slow Plant down and stop him around the ninth or tenth round.”
ADRIANA NORIEGA, Fox Deportes
“Benavidez vs. Plant is a great, 50/50 fight. Two contrasting fights that make for a very interesting clash. On one side, you have 'The Mexican Monster' with the physical advantages, power and aggressive style that defines him. I expect Plant to use his sweet hands, his timing, his speed and his footwork to potentially frustrate Benavidez. If the fight ends early, I expect Benavidez to win. If it goes to the judges, Plant has the better chance in my book.”
STEPHEN JACKSON, Former NBA champion and podcast co-host
“Plant is coming off one of the biggest wins of his career. A big knockout after losing to Canelo. He’s in a good space right now. Benavidez has been looking for a fight, he’s one of the dangerous fighters around right now so it’s going to be a good fight. Caleb is still on his high and he has to win this fight to get back to Canelo. Benavidez has been calling out Canelo for years and this is a stepping-stone. If I have to lean toward a side because you put a gun to my head, I’m going to go with Benavidez.”
ROBERT LITTAL, journalist
“I believe this is truly a 50/50 fight with an amazing clash of styles between someone they call the ‘Mexican Monster’ and the other they call ‘Sweethands.’ In the end I think Caleb Plant survives an early assault from Benavidez and uses the knowledge from the Canelo fight and puts on a boxing clinic down the stretch to win a unanimous decision.”
GREG BEACHAM, journalist
“I like Benavidez by late-round stoppage. His toughest opponent has usually been himself, but I still think he can reach his full potential. Benavidez should be motivated by a talented, confident veteran opponent like Plant, who could easily take this fight if Benavidez shows up unfocused or unprepared. Benavidez’s strength and talent are the determining factors for me in an excellent matchup.”
MORGAN CAMPBELL, journalist
“Benavidez by very close decision. Might be split decision, might be majority decision, but I think he’ll win seven rounds.”
LARGE, Barstool Sports
“Although both fighters possess both attributes, I still see this one as strength versus speed. And Benavidez’s power will get to Plant by the late rounds. Benavidez by KO Round 8-10.”
PAUL PIERCE, Former NBA champion and podcast co-host
“I’m going with Plant. That’s my man. I met Caleb Plant – I’ve sat with him at a fight and I had a moment with him so I’m going with Caleb Plant. I ain’t gonna lie though, Benavidez is a beast.”
DEMARCUS COUSINS – Four-Time NBA All-Star
“I do like Plant. I question his power, but Plant is a very skilled boxer. I don’t know though, I might have to go the other way with this one [and pick Benavidez]. Benavidez is a monster.”
|
Matchroom reveals Joshua-Franklin undercard |
|
British Heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley will face American Michael Polite-Coffie on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s clash with Jermaine Franklin at The O2 in London on Saturday, April 1st, live worldwide on DAZN. Also, Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams will battle River Wilson-Bent 14-2-1, 6 KOs) and Felix Cash challenges Matteo Signani for the European middleweight title. The previously announced clash between Craig Richards and Ricards Bolotniks has been postponed after Richards suffered a hand injury.
Italy’s European middleweight ruler Signani (32-6-3, 12 KOs) landed the title for the first time against Gevorg Khatchikian in Trento back in October 2019 before making successful defenses against Maxime Beaussire in 2020 and Ruben Diaz in May 2021. ‘Il Giaguaro’ lost the belt to Anderson Prestot on a technical decision in June last year but avenged that loss in November.
Former British and Commonwealth champion Cash (16-0, 10 KOs) is looking to add the EBU crown to his collection after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins. Cash and Williams went face-to-face with him in a fiery ringside encounter in Leeds after Cash’s December outing in Yorkshire. Cash’s European title tilt was announced in February, and now his future American foe has been added to the bill, his clash with Signani takes on even more significance as the Wokingham man looks to make up for lost time after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins.
The idea of the undercard is to set up an eventual showdown between Cash and Williams, who are slated to clash in a big middleweight battle in 2023. Williams (13-0 9 KOs) fights in the UK for the third time and in his second showing at the Greenwich venue, having stepped through the ropes in his fourth pro fight there in October 2019 and then stopping former World Title challenger Javier Maciel in February 2022 at Alexandra Palace. The 26 year-old Williams ended 2022 with a pair of ten round wins over Kieron Conway and Simon Madsen, and will be looking for a statement win over Wilson-Bent.
Wardley (15-0, 14 KOs) is riding high after claiming the vacant British title in November with a third round stoppage over Nathan Gormley at Wembley Arena in London, and the Ipswich ace returns to the capital for his fourth straight fight and third in that run at The O2, and meets American Polite-Coffie (13-3, 10 KOs) in his first fight of 2023. Wardley now has Solomon Dacres breathing down his next for a shot at the coveted Lord Lonsdale belt after he claimed the English title in Newcastle on Saturday night.
Campbell Hatton (10-0, 3 KOs) is back in action after hitting double figures in Liverpool in March, and the son of British boxing legend Ricky will meet Staffordshire’s experienced Louis Fielding (10-7, 1 KOs) in his first eight round battle in the paid ranks and Essex’s John Hedges (7-0 2 KOs) lands his first eight round clash against Poland’s Daniel Bocianski (11-2, 2 KOs).
|
|
|
|
Matchroom reveals Joshua-Franklin undercard
British Heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley will face American Michael Polite-Coffie on the undercard of Anthony Joshua’s clash with Jermaine Franklin at The O2 in London on Saturday, April 1st, live worldwide on DAZN. Also, Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams will battle River Wilson-Bent 14-2-1, 6 KOs) and Felix Cash challenges Matteo Signani for the European middleweight title. The previously announced clash between Craig Richards and Ricards Bolotniks has been postponed after Richards suffered a hand injury.
Italy’s European middleweight ruler Signani (32-6-3, 12 KOs) landed the title for the first time against Gevorg Khatchikian in Trento back in October 2019 before making successful defenses against Maxime Beaussire in 2020 and Ruben Diaz in May 2021. ‘Il Giaguaro’ lost the belt to Anderson Prestot on a technical decision in June last year but avenged that loss in November.
Former British and Commonwealth champion Cash (16-0, 10 KOs) is looking to add the EBU crown to his collection after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins. Cash and Williams went face-to-face with him in a fiery ringside encounter in Leeds after Cash’s December outing in Yorkshire. Cash’s European title tilt was announced in February, and now his future American foe has been added to the bill, his clash with Signani takes on even more significance as the Wokingham man looks to make up for lost time after enduring a frustrating 2022 in which he picked up two wins.
The idea of the undercard is to set up an eventual showdown between Cash and Williams, who are slated to clash in a big middleweight battle in 2023. Williams (13-0 9 KOs) fights in the UK for the third time and in his second showing at the Greenwich venue, having stepped through the ropes in his fourth pro fight there in October 2019 and then stopping former World Title challenger Javier Maciel in February 2022 at Alexandra Palace. The 26 year-old Williams ended 2022 with a pair of ten round wins over Kieron Conway and Simon Madsen, and will be looking for a statement win over Wilson-Bent.
Wardley (15-0, 14 KOs) is riding high after claiming the vacant British title in November with a third round stoppage over Nathan Gormley at Wembley Arena in London, and the Ipswich ace returns to the capital for his fourth straight fight and third in that run at The O2, and meets American Polite-Coffie (13-3, 10 KOs) in his first fight of 2023. Wardley now has Solomon Dacres breathing down his next for a shot at the coveted Lord Lonsdale belt after he claimed the English title in Newcastle on Saturday night.
Campbell Hatton (10-0, 3 KOs) is back in action after hitting double figures in Liverpool in March, and the son of British boxing legend Ricky will meet Staffordshire’s experienced Louis Fielding (10-7, 1 KOs) in his first eight round battle in the paid ranks and Essex’s John Hedges (7-0 2 KOs) lands his first eight round clash against Poland’s Daniel Bocianski (11-2, 2 KOs).
|
Dovhun overcomes cut to win unanimous decision |
|
Oleh Dovhun W10 Juan Centeno... Fighting in his adopted hometown, super bantamweight Oleh Dovhun won a ten-round unanimous decision over Juan Centeno in a fight that headlined a five-bout card at The Priory Grand Hall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The card was promoted by Integrity Fighter Management and Star Boxing. Despite being cut on his left eyelid due to an accidental clash of head, Dovhun showed his class throughout the bout by boxing his way behind a consistent work-rate. Centeno hung in there, but Dovhun took the fight by scores of 100-90 on all cards. Dovhun, originally from the Ukraine, ups his record to 15-0. Centeno of Miami us 8-7-3.
Devaun Lee TKO4 Kiante Irving... In the co-feature, Devaun Lee sent stopped previously undefeated hometown fighter Kiante Irving in round four of their six-round super middleweight bout. Lee withstood an early rush by Irving, who may have punched himself out. Lee started to take over in the second and third rounds, tagging Irving with flush shots until the bout was stopped at 2:03 of round four. Lee of Queens, NY is 11-8-1 with six knockouts. Irving of Beaver Falls, PA falls to 11-1-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Joe Turk remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Isaiah Margheim in a heavyweight bout. Turk of Pittsburgh is now 3-0-1. Margehim of Sandusky, Ohio is 1-3.
Jordan Zlacki took a four-round split decision over Eric Palmer in a welterweight battle. Zlacki of Springdale, PA is now 3-5. Palmer of Uniontown, PA is 14-17-5.
The opening bout saw Devon Siegfried stop Matteo Gardner in a scheduled four-round fight featuring debuting cruiserweights. In round three, Siegfried dropped Gardner with a right hook for the ten-count at 1:05.
|
|
|
|
Dovhun overcomes cut to win unanimous decision
Oleh Dovhun W10 Juan Centeno... Fighting in his adopted hometown, super bantamweight Oleh Dovhun won a ten-round unanimous decision over Juan Centeno in a fight that headlined a five-bout card at The Priory Grand Hall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The card was promoted by Integrity Fighter Management and Star Boxing. Despite being cut on his left eyelid due to an accidental clash of head, Dovhun showed his class throughout the bout by boxing his way behind a consistent work-rate. Centeno hung in there, but Dovhun took the fight by scores of 100-90 on all cards. Dovhun, originally from the Ukraine, ups his record to 15-0. Centeno of Miami us 8-7-3.
Devaun Lee TKO4 Kiante Irving... In the co-feature, Devaun Lee sent stopped previously undefeated hometown fighter Kiante Irving in round four of their six-round super middleweight bout. Lee withstood an early rush by Irving, who may have punched himself out. Lee started to take over in the second and third rounds, tagging Irving with flush shots until the bout was stopped at 2:03 of round four. Lee of Queens, NY is 11-8-1 with six knockouts. Irving of Beaver Falls, PA falls to 11-1-1.
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Joe Turk remained undefeated with a four-round unanimous decision over Isaiah Margheim in a heavyweight bout. Turk of Pittsburgh is now 3-0-1. Margehim of Sandusky, Ohio is 1-3.
Jordan Zlacki took a four-round split decision over Eric Palmer in a welterweight battle. Zlacki of Springdale, PA is now 3-5. Palmer of Uniontown, PA is 14-17-5.
The opening bout saw Devon Siegfried stop Matteo Gardner in a scheduled four-round fight featuring debuting cruiserweights. In round three, Siegfried dropped Gardner with a right hook for the ten-count at 1:05.
|
Misfits reveals crossover line-up for April 21st |
|
Misfits Boxing returns for more crossover boxing action as the sixth instalment of the MF & DAZN: X Series heads to the XULA Convocation Center in New Orleans, Louisiana on Friday April 21st, available to watch live and exclusive on DAZN around the world. Former NFL star Le’Veon Bell tops the bill, taking on FIFA legend JMX. Bell (0-1) is an American football player who played at Michigan State and then was drafted to the NFL, best known for playing running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bell made his boxing debut in 2022 when he dropped a four-round decision to Uriah Hall, former UFC fighter, on the Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva undercard.
JMX, who is most well-known for his success on YouTube playing video games, doing prank videos and challenges, will jump back in the boxing ring for the first time since his dominating performance over Ginty at MF & DAZN: X Series 002. His 3-0 record is set to face its toughest test away from home this April.
MMA fighter and professional boxer Chris Avila faces fellow pro Paul Bamba. Avila, from Stockton, California, is a former UFC and Bellator fighter. As a boxer, he currently holds a pro record of 2-1, which includes a majority decision win over Misfits favourite Anthony Taylor on undercard of the Jake Paul vs Tyrone Woodley rematch in Tampa. Bamba is a celebrity trainer and former marine from Puerto Rico, who holds a professional record of 5-2, including 4 big KO wins. Bamba was scheduled to fight Tommy Fury on the Mayweather-Deji card, but the fight was cancelled the day before due to issues with Fury's weight.
Professional MMA fighter and the son of a backyard brawling legend, Kimbo Slice Jr will take on Atlanta-based YouTube personality OJ Rosè. Sharing a name with his famous fighting father, Kimbo Slice Jr, also known as ‘Baby Slice’, is a former Bellator fighter, now transitioning from the cage to the ring to make his Misfits Boxing debut. OJ Rosè is an American YouTuber, known best for posting prank videos and boxing content on his channels. Rosè is no stranger to the squared circle having previously defeated Lee Bolden in an exhibition bout in February 2023.
Irish YouTuber and Twitch streamer JustaMinx will battle it out with Texan gaming sensation Fangs, as the ladies look to steal the show in Louisiana. JustaMinx has over 2 million followers on Twitch and a further 6 million across her other social channels. She will be returning to the ring having previously defeated American YouTuber Yodelling Haley via TKO in May 2022. Fangs, who rose to fame playing games such as Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, Minecraft and most notably FIFA on Twitch, was set to feature on MF & DAZN: X Series 002, but can look forward to making her Misfits debut on April 21.
Minikon returns to Misfits Boxing following his victory at MF & DAZN: X Series 002. The TikTok star will meet YouTuber Jake The Viking in a heavyweight showdown between the two popular content creators. Minikon has over 1.3 Million followers on Tik Tok. Having previously fought to a no contest decision against former LA Lakers guard Nick “Swaggy P” Young, and suffered a loss to Armz Korleon, the New Yorker claimed his first victory in the crossover scene against NickNack PattiWhack at last year's Misfits Boxing event in Austin, Texas. YouTube star Jake The Viking, who will be making his crossover boxing debut, boasts over 5 million followers across his social media accounts. Formerly a regular collaborator on MrBeast’s YouTube channel, his own channel now has 1.59 million subscribers, and is where he can be seen posting ‘the realest overnight paranormal investigations’ and ‘epic vlogs’.
TikTok star and former amateur boxer Walid Sharks will face actor and comedian Ayye Pap. Sharks was set to meet Ace Musa at MF & DAZN: X Series 005 in Telford, England. The bout was cancelled after Musa failed a pre-fight medical, but not before Sharks was reunited with rival Deen The Great, sparking a press conference melee, which saw the former Golden Gloves winner jump over a table in an attempt to settle the score with his former foe. Stamaur 'Ayye Pap' Mitchell made his name as a content creator on Vine posting funny videos and can now be seen performing at top comedy clubs around the US, and on film and television. He has featured in movies including Aniyah for Amazon Prime and played a young Errol Spence Jr on Fox Sports.
Reality TV star Chase DeMoor is another familiar face returning Misfits Boxing on April 21st, taking on YouTuber Stevie Knight in a heavyweight contest. DeMoor, star of season 2 of Netflix’s ‘Too Hot To Handle’ and a former Houston Linemen and the Montreal Alouettes Footballer, is back following his loss to Josh Brueckner at MF & DAZN: X Series 002. DeMoor, who has over 2 million followers on his TikTok account, will be looking for redemption when he returns to action in New Orleans. Knight is an American YouTuber and social media personality, known for posting reaction videos and commenting on sport, music and culture on his YouTube channel. Knight will be making his crossover boxing debut when the enters the ring at MF & DAZN X Series 006 at the XULA Convocation Center.
Completing an action-packed card, Ree Moo, also known as Lil Cracra, will testing his skills against fellow content creator Elijah Smith. Both men have amateur boxing experience, making this bout one-to-watch for fight fans. Ree Moo has built his fanbase on social media posting boxing and training content, while Elijah Smith has grown a huge following posting about food and other humorous content. Smith currently has 6.1 million followers and over 168 million likes on his yuddygangtv TikTok account.
|
|
|
|
Misfits reveals crossover line-up for April 21st
Misfits Boxing returns for more crossover boxing action as the sixth instalment of the MF & DAZN: X Series heads to the XULA Convocation Center in New Orleans, Louisiana on Friday April 21st, available to watch live and exclusive on DAZN around the world. Former NFL star Le’Veon Bell tops the bill, taking on FIFA legend JMX. Bell (0-1) is an American football player who played at Michigan State and then was drafted to the NFL, best known for playing running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bell made his boxing debut in 2022 when he dropped a four-round decision to Uriah Hall, former UFC fighter, on the Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva undercard.
JMX, who is most well-known for his success on YouTube playing video games, doing prank videos and challenges, will jump back in the boxing ring for the first time since his dominating performance over Ginty at MF & DAZN: X Series 002. His 3-0 record is set to face its toughest test away from home this April.
MMA fighter and professional boxer Chris Avila faces fellow pro Paul Bamba. Avila, from Stockton, California, is a former UFC and Bellator fighter. As a boxer, he currently holds a pro record of 2-1, which includes a majority decision win over Misfits favourite Anthony Taylor on undercard of the Jake Paul vs Tyrone Woodley rematch in Tampa. Bamba is a celebrity trainer and former marine from Puerto Rico, who holds a professional record of 5-2, including 4 big KO wins. Bamba was scheduled to fight Tommy Fury on the Mayweather-Deji card, but the fight was cancelled the day before due to issues with Fury's weight.
Professional MMA fighter and the son of a backyard brawling legend, Kimbo Slice Jr will take on Atlanta-based YouTube personality OJ Rosè. Sharing a name with his famous fighting father, Kimbo Slice Jr, also known as ‘Baby Slice’, is a former Bellator fighter, now transitioning from the cage to the ring to make his Misfits Boxing debut. OJ Rosè is an American YouTuber, known best for posting prank videos and boxing content on his channels. Rosè is no stranger to the squared circle having previously defeated Lee Bolden in an exhibition bout in February 2023.
Irish YouTuber and Twitch streamer JustaMinx will battle it out with Texan gaming sensation Fangs, as the ladies look to steal the show in Louisiana. JustaMinx has over 2 million followers on Twitch and a further 6 million across her other social channels. She will be returning to the ring having previously defeated American YouTuber Yodelling Haley via TKO in May 2022. Fangs, who rose to fame playing games such as Call of Duty, Grand Theft Auto, Minecraft and most notably FIFA on Twitch, was set to feature on MF & DAZN: X Series 002, but can look forward to making her Misfits debut on April 21.
Minikon returns to Misfits Boxing following his victory at MF & DAZN: X Series 002. The TikTok star will meet YouTuber Jake The Viking in a heavyweight showdown between the two popular content creators. Minikon has over 1.3 Million followers on Tik Tok. Having previously fought to a no contest decision against former LA Lakers guard Nick “Swaggy P” Young, and suffered a loss to Armz Korleon, the New Yorker claimed his first victory in the crossover scene against NickNack PattiWhack at last year's Misfits Boxing event in Austin, Texas. YouTube star Jake The Viking, who will be making his crossover boxing debut, boasts over 5 million followers across his social media accounts. Formerly a regular collaborator on MrBeast’s YouTube channel, his own channel now has 1.59 million subscribers, and is where he can be seen posting ‘the realest overnight paranormal investigations’ and ‘epic vlogs’.
TikTok star and former amateur boxer Walid Sharks will face actor and comedian Ayye Pap. Sharks was set to meet Ace Musa at MF & DAZN: X Series 005 in Telford, England. The bout was cancelled after Musa failed a pre-fight medical, but not before Sharks was reunited with rival Deen The Great, sparking a press conference melee, which saw the former Golden Gloves winner jump over a table in an attempt to settle the score with his former foe. Stamaur 'Ayye Pap' Mitchell made his name as a content creator on Vine posting funny videos and can now be seen performing at top comedy clubs around the US, and on film and television. He has featured in movies including Aniyah for Amazon Prime and played a young Errol Spence Jr on Fox Sports.
Reality TV star Chase DeMoor is another familiar face returning Misfits Boxing on April 21st, taking on YouTuber Stevie Knight in a heavyweight contest. DeMoor, star of season 2 of Netflix’s ‘Too Hot To Handle’ and a former Houston Linemen and the Montreal Alouettes Footballer, is back following his loss to Josh Brueckner at MF & DAZN: X Series 002. DeMoor, who has over 2 million followers on his TikTok account, will be looking for redemption when he returns to action in New Orleans. Knight is an American YouTuber and social media personality, known for posting reaction videos and commenting on sport, music and culture on his YouTube channel. Knight will be making his crossover boxing debut when the enters the ring at MF & DAZN X Series 006 at the XULA Convocation Center.
Completing an action-packed card, Ree Moo, also known as Lil Cracra, will testing his skills against fellow content creator Elijah Smith. Both men have amateur boxing experience, making this bout one-to-watch for fight fans. Ree Moo has built his fanbase on social media posting boxing and training content, while Elijah Smith has grown a huge following posting about food and other humorous content. Smith currently has 6.1 million followers and over 168 million likes on his yuddygangtv TikTok account.
|
Mercito Gesta defeats JoJo Diaz |
|
Mercito Gesta W10 Joseph Diaz... Mercito Gesta, age 35, normally a lightweight, got a big win in the junior welterweight division. Gesta defeated former 130-pound title holder Joseph "JoJo" Diaz at The Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, California on Saturday night. He won the ten-round bout via split decision, with the judges scoring it 97-93 for Diaz, 99-91 for Gesta and 98-92 for Gesta. DAZN had it much closer at 96-94 for Gesta. Now 34-3-3, Gesta got his second straight quality win, having defeated Joel Diaz last year. JoJo Diaz's career is in free fall, with three straight losses and mounting legal troubles. Afterwards, Gesta tweeted, "Thank you everyone for all the support and greetings on my victory last night... I want to thank the champ, Joseph Diaz, for an amazing fight and his entire team. We gave the fans a great show my friend. It was a true honor to share the ring with you."
Gesta and Diaz were moved into the main event after the original headliner between Gilberto Ramirez and Gabe Rosado was scrapped due to Ramirez being overweight on Friday.
|
|
|
|
Mercito Gesta defeats JoJo Diaz
Mercito Gesta W10 Joseph Diaz... Mercito Gesta, age 35, normally a lightweight, got a big win in the junior welterweight division. Gesta defeated former 130-pound title holder Joseph "JoJo" Diaz at The Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, California on Saturday night. He won the ten-round bout via split decision, with the judges scoring it 97-93 for Diaz, 99-91 for Gesta and 98-92 for Gesta. DAZN had it much closer at 96-94 for Gesta. Now 34-3-3, Gesta got his second straight quality win, having defeated Joel Diaz last year. JoJo Diaz's career is in free fall, with three straight losses and mounting legal troubles. Afterwards, Gesta tweeted, "Thank you everyone for all the support and greetings on my victory last night... I want to thank the champ, Joseph Diaz, for an amazing fight and his entire team. We gave the fans a great show my friend. It was a true honor to share the ring with you."
Gesta and Diaz were moved into the main event after the original headliner between Gilberto Ramirez and Gabe Rosado was scrapped due to Ramirez being overweight on Friday.
|
Yamileth Mercado retains title |
|
Yamileth Mercado W10 Kudakwashe Chiwandire... WBC super bantamweight champion Yamileth Mercado retained her title defeating interim champion Kudakwashe Chiwandire (6-3-1) at the Manuel Bernardo Aguirre gym by unanimous decision. The fight began with both warily studying each other, Chiwandire stood in the center of the ring, however, she could not land with power. But in the second round, Mercado took the initiative, with Chiwandire putting up a good defense. By mid-fight, Mercado was landing more consistently and edging a slight advantage, as announced by the judges, through the WBC open scoring system. Final scores were 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92. With this victory, Mercado improved to 21-3 and is one of the longest reigning champions, having held her crown since 2019.
|
|
|
|
Yamileth Mercado retains title
Yamileth Mercado W10 Kudakwashe Chiwandire... WBC super bantamweight champion Yamileth Mercado retained her title defeating interim champion Kudakwashe Chiwandire (6-3-1) at the Manuel Bernardo Aguirre gym by unanimous decision. The fight began with both warily studying each other, Chiwandire stood in the center of the ring, however, she could not land with power. But in the second round, Mercado took the initiative, with Chiwandire putting up a good defense. By mid-fight, Mercado was landing more consistently and edging a slight advantage, as announced by the judges, through the WBC open scoring system. Final scores were 100-90, 99-91 and 98-92. With this victory, Mercado improved to 21-3 and is one of the longest reigning champions, having held her crown since 2019.
|
Yuliahn Luna makes soft title defense |
|
|
Yuliahn Luna W10 Vanesa Lorena Taborda ... WBC bantamweight ruler Yuliahn ‘Cobrita’ Luna retained her title by defeating Argentina’s Vanesa Lorena Taborda by a wide margin. Official scores were 100-89 (twice) and 99-90. The bout was held in Mexico, the home nation for Luna (25-3-1). Taborda is now 11-15-3, including three losses in her last four contests.
|
|
|
|
Yuliahn Luna makes soft title defense
Yuliahn Luna W10 Vanesa Lorena Taborda ... WBC bantamweight ruler Yuliahn ‘Cobrita’ Luna retained her title by defeating Argentina’s Vanesa Lorena Taborda by a wide margin. Official scores were 100-89 (twice) and 99-90. The bout was held in Mexico, the home nation for Luna (25-3-1). Taborda is now 11-15-3, including three losses in her last four contests.
|
Boxingtalk salutes the late Richie Kates |
|
Radio station 97.3 ESPN in southern New Jersey reports that former light heavyweight contender Richie Kates passed away last week at the age of 69. Kates retired after a 14-year career in 1983 with a record of 44-6 with 23 knockouts. Kates had the misfortune of competing in the light heavyweight division during an era of murderous competition. He had a notable road win over Pierre Fourie in South Africa, then suffered losses in two championship fights against Victor Galindez and then to future champion Matthew Saad Muhammad. Kates ended his career on a very strong run, winning his last five fights, including wins over respected contender Jerry Martin and future cruiserweight champion Jeff Lampkin. Kates was a respected trainer after his boxing campaigns ended. Boxingtalk sends its sympathies to the friends and family of Richie Kates.
|
|
|
|
Boxingtalk salutes the late Richie Kates
Radio station 97.3 ESPN in southern New Jersey reports that former light heavyweight contender Richie Kates passed away last week at the age of 69. Kates retired after a 14-year career in 1983 with a record of 44-6 with 23 knockouts. Kates had the misfortune of competing in the light heavyweight division during an era of murderous competition. He had a notable road win over Pierre Fourie in South Africa, then suffered losses in two championship fights against Victor Galindez and then to future champion Matthew Saad Muhammad. Kates ended his career on a very strong run, winning his last five fights, including wins over respected contender Jerry Martin and future cruiserweight champion Jeff Lampkin. Kates was a respected trainer after his boxing campaigns ended. Boxingtalk sends its sympathies to the friends and family of Richie Kates.
|
Bridgerweight title fight lands in Poland |
|
Boxxer is heading to Poland for a night of boxing on Saturday, April 22nd in association with Knockout Promotions. The main event will have popular Croatian knockout artis, Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic (12-1 including the World Series of Boxing) battling Poland’s Lukasz Rozanski (14-0, 13 KOS) for the vacant WBC bridgerweight (224-pound) championship. The title was vacated by Oscar Rivas due to a potentially career-ending eye injury. The ‘Next King of Scotland’ Martin Bakole (18-1-0, 13 KOs) will take on Ukrainian Ihor Shevadzutskyi (10-0, 8 KOs). Bakole is coming off a big win over former Olympic champion Tony Yoka. The undercard is scheduled to feature Caroline Dubois and heavyweight Jeamie TKV (4-0, 2 KOs) in separate bouts.
|
|
|
|
Bridgerweight title fight lands in Poland
Boxxer is heading to Poland for a night of boxing on Saturday, April 22nd in association with Knockout Promotions. The main event will have popular Croatian knockout artis, Alen ‘The Savage’ Babic (12-1 including the World Series of Boxing) battling Poland’s Lukasz Rozanski (14-0, 13 KOS) for the vacant WBC bridgerweight (224-pound) championship. The title was vacated by Oscar Rivas due to a potentially career-ending eye injury. The ‘Next King of Scotland’ Martin Bakole (18-1-0, 13 KOs) will take on Ukrainian Ihor Shevadzutskyi (10-0, 8 KOs). Bakole is coming off a big win over former Olympic champion Tony Yoka. The undercard is scheduled to feature Caroline Dubois and heavyweight Jeamie TKV (4-0, 2 KOs) in separate bouts.
|
Weigh-in report from Long Beach, CA |
|
|
With Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez vs. Gabriel Rosado off due to Ramirez being overweight, the Golden Boy show in Long Beach, California will go on without the headline fight. Here are the boxers' weights for the two featured bouts:
Joseph Diaz Jr. 139.4 pounds -vs.- Mercito Gesta 137.2; and
Oscar Duarte 135.6 -vs.- Alex Martin 136.4.
|
|
|
|
Weigh-in report from Long Beach, CA
With Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez vs. Gabriel Rosado off due to Ramirez being overweight, the Golden Boy show in Long Beach, California will go on without the headline fight. Here are the boxers' weights for the two featured bouts:
Joseph Diaz Jr. 139.4 pounds -vs.- Mercito Gesta 137.2; and
Oscar Duarte 135.6 -vs.- Alex Martin 136.4.
|
Ireland's Callum Walsh wins in Boston |
|
Callum Walsh TKO2 Wesley Tucker ... Irish junior middleweight Callum Walsh (6-0, 5 KOs) blasted out Wesley Tucker (15-5, 9 KOs) in two rounds at the Agganis Arena in Boston to start St Patrick`s Day Celebration with an Emerald flourish. The Cork-born Walsh, age 22, wasted no time in launching a barrage of punches against the southpaw. A left followed by a couple of rights toppled the man from Toledo, Ohio. Tucker got up, but Walsh dropped him for a second time soon after. Again, Tucker got up, but was backed into the ropes and took a knee. Referee Leo Gerstel had seen enough and so had Tucker's corner, who threw in the towel. A fast night`s work which ended one second before the bell would have tolled to end the second round.
Promoter Tom Loeffler who was also at hand for this event said: “With Callum still aged only twenty-two, fighting under the bright lights in a big Boston Arena with Dana White ringside plus all the celebrities…George St Pierre, Max Crosby from the Raiders. Gerry Cooney and Micky Ward…he handled it all in a very calm and collected way. You could see how much better caliber he was than anyone else on the show, clearly indicating what his potential is and what the future holds. His abilities and his charisma shone. This has proved a great launching pad for Callum, not only in Boston, but also on the Eastern Seaboard. Dana couldn`t have been happier with Callum`s performance. As many UFC shows that he does, Dana gets very excited when Callum gets into the ring and puts on a great show. He is one hundred percent supportive of Callum`s career and building boxing on the UFC Fight Platform.” Freddie Roach was also impressed by Callum`s youthful maturity, especially as there was a late change in opponent due to injury. The opponent Callum fought brought appreciably more experience to the fray but was still swiftly overcome."
|
|
|
|
Ireland's Callum Walsh wins in Boston
Callum Walsh TKO2 Wesley Tucker ... Irish junior middleweight Callum Walsh (6-0, 5 KOs) blasted out Wesley Tucker (15-5, 9 KOs) in two rounds at the Agganis Arena in Boston to start St Patrick`s Day Celebration with an Emerald flourish. The Cork-born Walsh, age 22, wasted no time in launching a barrage of punches against the southpaw. A left followed by a couple of rights toppled the man from Toledo, Ohio. Tucker got up, but Walsh dropped him for a second time soon after. Again, Tucker got up, but was backed into the ropes and took a knee. Referee Leo Gerstel had seen enough and so had Tucker's corner, who threw in the towel. A fast night`s work which ended one second before the bell would have tolled to end the second round.
Promoter Tom Loeffler who was also at hand for this event said: “With Callum still aged only twenty-two, fighting under the bright lights in a big Boston Arena with Dana White ringside plus all the celebrities…George St Pierre, Max Crosby from the Raiders. Gerry Cooney and Micky Ward…he handled it all in a very calm and collected way. You could see how much better caliber he was than anyone else on the show, clearly indicating what his potential is and what the future holds. His abilities and his charisma shone. This has proved a great launching pad for Callum, not only in Boston, but also on the Eastern Seaboard. Dana couldn`t have been happier with Callum`s performance. As many UFC shows that he does, Dana gets very excited when Callum gets into the ring and puts on a great show. He is one hundred percent supportive of Callum`s career and building boxing on the UFC Fight Platform.” Freddie Roach was also impressed by Callum`s youthful maturity, especially as there was a late change in opponent due to injury. The opponent Callum fought brought appreciably more experience to the fray but was still swiftly overcome."
|
Kim Clavel returns on April 28th |
|
|
Montreal's Kim Clavel (16-0-1, 3 KOs) will return from losing her title to battle Naomi "La Chapita" Arellano Reyes (9-2-0, 5 KOs), of Los Angeles in a flyweight bout on April 28th at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec. This will be the first fight for Clavel, 32, since her January 13th decision loss against Yesica Nery Plata (29-2-0, 3 KOs), in a WBA/WBC 108-pound unification bout. April 28th will mark the start of Clavel’s new campaign. She intends to prove herself again by positioning her for a rematch with Plata as quickly as possible. Clavel is more motivated than ever, saying: “I want to regain my world title, but I will take it one fight at a time. We will reposition ourselves in the rankings. I'm going to need all of Quebec behind me. I'm confident with my team, my perseverance and all of you that, by the end of the year, we'll get more than just a world champion belt! Thank you for your eternal support.”
Originally from Nayarit, Mexico, Reyes now lives and trains in Los Angeles. The 28 year-old Reyes is renowned for her power and her most notable win was versus former champion Carina Moreno (25-7) in 2020. In her last outing last October, Reyes lost by decision against Gabriela Fundora (8-0) in a PBC event broadcast on Showtime.
Clavel and Reyes were supposed to face each other in August 2021 at the IGA Stadium, but the latter had to withdraw due to health restrictions to enter Canada, and she was replaced by Maria Vargas (14-4-1, 1KO). “It is with great enthusiasm and confidence that we are relaunching Kim with the ultimate goal of allowing her to avenge her defeat and regain her world title,” said GYM President Yvon Michel. “We remember the great intense and passionate fight between the two champions last January. Besides, the latter is still in the running for the 2023 Fight of the Year! The 4,000 spectators at Place Bell are still excited. To return to the world championship, Kim must prove herself again and these international titles will allow her to become a must challenger for the champion.”
|
|
|
|
Kim Clavel returns on April 28th
Montreal's Kim Clavel (16-0-1, 3 KOs) will return from losing her title to battle Naomi "La Chapita" Arellano Reyes (9-2-0, 5 KOs), of Los Angeles in a flyweight bout on April 28th at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec. This will be the first fight for Clavel, 32, since her January 13th decision loss against Yesica Nery Plata (29-2-0, 3 KOs), in a WBA/WBC 108-pound unification bout. April 28th will mark the start of Clavel’s new campaign. She intends to prove herself again by positioning her for a rematch with Plata as quickly as possible. Clavel is more motivated than ever, saying: “I want to regain my world title, but I will take it one fight at a time. We will reposition ourselves in the rankings. I'm going to need all of Quebec behind me. I'm confident with my team, my perseverance and all of you that, by the end of the year, we'll get more than just a world champion belt! Thank you for your eternal support.”
Originally from Nayarit, Mexico, Reyes now lives and trains in Los Angeles. The 28 year-old Reyes is renowned for her power and her most notable win was versus former champion Carina Moreno (25-7) in 2020. In her last outing last October, Reyes lost by decision against Gabriela Fundora (8-0) in a PBC event broadcast on Showtime.
Clavel and Reyes were supposed to face each other in August 2021 at the IGA Stadium, but the latter had to withdraw due to health restrictions to enter Canada, and she was replaced by Maria Vargas (14-4-1, 1KO). “It is with great enthusiasm and confidence that we are relaunching Kim with the ultimate goal of allowing her to avenge her defeat and regain her world title,” said GYM President Yvon Michel. “We remember the great intense and passionate fight between the two champions last January. Besides, the latter is still in the running for the 2023 Fight of the Year! The 4,000 spectators at Place Bell are still excited. To return to the world championship, Kim must prove herself again and these international titles will allow her to become a must challenger for the champion.”
|
Overweight Zurdo Ramirez booted off Saturday's show |
|
Statement from Golden Boy Promotions: "Due to Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez failing to make the contracted weight, his fight versus Gabriel Rosado has been canceled. We are very disappointed for letting our fans down and will work with Rosado to bring him back to the ring very soon. Joseph 'JoJo Diaz' Junior versus Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta is the new main event for Saturday, March 18th."
|
|
|
|
Overweight Zurdo Ramirez booted off Saturday's show
Statement from Golden Boy Promotions: "Due to Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez failing to make the contracted weight, his fight versus Gabriel Rosado has been canceled. We are very disappointed for letting our fans down and will work with Rosado to bring him back to the ring very soon. Joseph 'JoJo Diaz' Junior versus Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta is the new main event for Saturday, March 18th."
|
Weigh-in report from Dubai: Miller is 333 |
|
For the early Saturday pay-per-view show in Dubai, heavyweight Jarrell Miller weighed in at 333 pounds. While not a career-high (Miller weighed 341 for a low-level fight last year), Miller's most effective run came in 2018 when he was 317 or less. Miller will face Australia's Lucas Browne, who came in at a career high 277. Last June, Browne weighed 261 when he stopped Junior Fa in one round.
Additional weights:
Jono Carroll 130 -vs.- Miguel Marriaga 130; and
Soslan Asbarov 199.5 -vs.- Brandon Glanton 200 .
Promoter: Hardcore Boxing
Venue: The Agenda, Dubai
TV: ProBoxTV.com @ 1pm ET (USA & Australia)
ESPN Knockout (Latin America).
|
|
|
|
Weigh-in report from Dubai: Miller is 333
For the early Saturday pay-per-view show in Dubai, heavyweight Jarrell Miller weighed in at 333 pounds. While not a career-high (Miller weighed 341 for a low-level fight last year), Miller's most effective run came in 2018 when he was 317 or less. Miller will face Australia's Lucas Browne, who came in at a career high 277. Last June, Browne weighed 261 when he stopped Junior Fa in one round.
Additional weights:
Jono Carroll 130 -vs.- Miguel Marriaga 130; and
Soslan Asbarov 199.5 -vs.- Brandon Glanton 200 .
Promoter: Hardcore Boxing
Venue: The Agenda, Dubai
TV: ProBoxTV.com @ 1pm ET (USA & Australia)
ESPN Knockout (Latin America).
|
Germany's Michael Eifert shocks Jean Pascal |
|
Michael Eifert W12 Jean Pascal... Former world light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal was upset by little-known German Michael Eifert in a fight held in Pascal's hometown of Laval, Quebec. Youth trumped experience as Eifert, age 25, defeated Pascal, age 40, by unanimous decision. Official scores were 118-110, 117-111 and 115-113. Pascal complained it was a bad decision, but the Montreal Gazette saw it 116-112 for Eifert, who is now 12-1 as a pro. The fight was an IBF light heavyweight eliminator, meaning Eifert is now in line for a shot at three-belt champion Artur Beterbiev, who is also based in Quebec.
|
|
|
|
Germany's Michael Eifert shocks Jean Pascal
Michael Eifert W12 Jean Pascal... Former world light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal was upset by little-known German Michael Eifert in a fight held in Pascal's hometown of Laval, Quebec. Youth trumped experience as Eifert, age 25, defeated Pascal, age 40, by unanimous decision. Official scores were 118-110, 117-111 and 115-113. Pascal complained it was a bad decision, but the Montreal Gazette saw it 116-112 for Eifert, who is now 12-1 as a pro. The fight was an IBF light heavyweight eliminator, meaning Eifert is now in line for a shot at three-belt champion Artur Beterbiev, who is also based in Quebec.
|
WBA: Niyomtrong must fight Rosa in neutral country |
|
|
The WBA Championships Committee has cancelled the last purse bid for the minimumweight bout between WBA 105-pound super champion Thammanoon Niyomtrong a/k/a Knockout CP Freshmart and regular champion Erick Rosa. Niyomtrong’s team had originally won a purse bid for the rights to the fight and it was scheduled to take place last March 3rd in Thailand. However, Rosa had problems related to travel documentation and was denied entry into Thailand. The WBA has now called for a new purse bid, scheduled for March 28th in Panama City. After studying the situation, the WBA concluded there is some fault on both sides for the failure on March 3rd to hold the fight. Consequently, the WBA considers it appropriate to cancel the award of the promotional rights due to the extraordinary circumstances. A new purse bid will now be called with an additional condition that the fight will take place on neutral ground. Whoever wins the rights to promote this fight, will not be able to hold the fight in Thailand or the Dominican Republic. In the event that there is no acceptable bid for the bidding or if appropriate contracts are not submitted in a timely manner, the championship committee may make various decisions based on the internal rules, among which is to order a fight between the next two highest ranked fighters in the body.
|
|
|
|
WBA: Niyomtrong must fight Rosa in neutral country
The WBA Championships Committee has cancelled the last purse bid for the minimumweight bout between WBA 105-pound super champion Thammanoon Niyomtrong a/k/a Knockout CP Freshmart and regular champion Erick Rosa. Niyomtrong’s team had originally won a purse bid for the rights to the fight and it was scheduled to take place last March 3rd in Thailand. However, Rosa had problems related to travel documentation and was denied entry into Thailand. The WBA has now called for a new purse bid, scheduled for March 28th in Panama City. After studying the situation, the WBA concluded there is some fault on both sides for the failure on March 3rd to hold the fight. Consequently, the WBA considers it appropriate to cancel the award of the promotional rights due to the extraordinary circumstances. A new purse bid will now be called with an additional condition that the fight will take place on neutral ground. Whoever wins the rights to promote this fight, will not be able to hold the fight in Thailand or the Dominican Republic. In the event that there is no acceptable bid for the bidding or if appropriate contracts are not submitted in a timely manner, the championship committee may make various decisions based on the internal rules, among which is to order a fight between the next two highest ranked fighters in the body.
|
Benavidez vs. Plant: trainers' roundtable |
|
|
Top trainers Derrick James, Bob Santos, SugarHill Steward and Buddy McGirt put their collective wisdom together to preview and breakdown the upcoming showdown between super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavidez and Caleb Plant during a virtual media roundtable on Thursday. Some of boxing’s best strategists expect an intriguing clash of styles and personalities in the long-awaited showdown. Benavidez vs. Plant headlines a Showtime pay-per-view event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on Saturday, March 25th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased through AXS.com.
Here is what the trainers had to say Thursday:
DERRICK JAMES, Trainer of Errol Spence Jr., Jermell Charlo and Frank Martin
“This is an interesting fight. I like both of those guys and I’ve known them for a while. It comes down to who can take it. Who can implement what they do best? Both have fast hands and are athletic. It’s going to come down to fortitude.
“Both guys share the weakness of depth. Because they’ve never had to dig themselves out of trouble. That’s what we don’t know about, because we haven’t really seen them have to do that. It may not be their weakness, but looking at it from the outside, we don’t really know.
“When I’ve had a fighter who has bad blood with an opponent like Benavidez and Plant, I had to make one strategy for fighting and one for boxing. Whatever he felt, I had to coach him from that perspective during the fight.
“A lot of times if I see something brewing in the opposite corner where the father might be getting emotional, I might say something really loud so that he can hear me. Something the opposite of what I really want, just to ruffle them up. That can make the father and son question each other. It’s very hard to be on the same page.
“If I was fighting David Benavidez, I would do my best to not let him be himself. I would do whatever I could to offset him. The best way is probably with movement. Because whenever he stands in front of you, it’s a bad day. You better practice holding and clinching, because if you don’t, it’s going to be a long night.
“If I’m training Benavidez, I’d tell him he has to pressure Caleb. But you have to watch out, because Caleb sets traps. You have to back him down at a distance and hope that he’ll succumb to the pressure. Caleb is a great counter puncher and has great defense. You have to stay two steps ahead of him.”
BOB SANTOS, Trainer of Mario Barrios, Alberto Puello, Hector Luis Garcia and Carlos Adames
“I know both guys very well. The bad blood is real. I’ve been cordial with both guys and I’ve been in the middle of it sometimes. We’ve all known these two have been on a head-on collision course.
“I think it’s going to be brutal at times in there. But if Benavidez gets too intense, he could get into some trouble. We’ll see how it plays out.
“People are going to be surprised with Benavidez, because he’s chose to fight the way he has, so that he can make a name for himself. But he’s really a savant. He’s a lot smarter in the ring than people think. I think he can do more things than Caleb Plant can in the end, but the only thing I’m worried about is how much he’s talked about going for the knockout. If he stays within himself, I like him to break Plant down.
“I think both of their stocks are going to rise in this fight. Eventually, Benavidez will force Plant to fight. He’s going to go through the fire and I’m interested to see how he reacts.
“The father-son, trainer-fighter dynamic in training camp is a good thing, because they know how to push their kid. The problems come from guiding the corner. When I was with Robert and Ruben Guerrero, we were fighting Danny Garcia and we were up in the rounds, but after Robert got hit with a good shot, I thought his dad got emotional and stopped caring about winning the rounds. Caleb can turn things up in a way that could potentially make the Benavidez corner panic.
“I would tell Caleb to keep turning Benavidez. He’s gotta use his angles. I’d be MMA all night clinching and holding with him, because you can’t let him get comfortable.
“For Benavidez, it’s all about controlled aggression. He really can’t stand Caleb. He wants to hurt the guy. If I’m the trainer I’m stressing that you have to be methodical. Work behind the jab and control the distance.”
SUGARHILL STEWARD, Trainer of Tyson Fury, Anthony Dirrell and Vladimir Shishkin
“This is one of the biggest fights in boxing right now. This is one of those fights that really interests me. You have two former world champions, two young fighters that are at the top of their game. As we all know, there’s some bad blood. There’s more than just a fight on the line. It’s something personal.
“Both of these fighters are at the top. They both have fast hands and they both have the ability to knock each other out. It just makes it such an exciting fight at 168 pounds. They’ve both been asking for the best, and here you go, we’ve got two of the best right here.
“With Anthony Dirrell, we had two different game plans for Benavidez and Plant. With Benavidez, it was to box him and to be strong. With Caleb, it wasn’t to box him it was to pressure him more because he’s a good boxer himself and he has beautiful movement. I didn’t want Anthony to box him. Anthony didn’t want to box him either. It was two different plans but with these two guys together, it’s an electrifying fight because they both can do both things – box and pressure. It’s whoever sticks to their game plan.
“There’s going to be a lot of emotions in this one. I think both of them are going to be emotional because they are going to bring it out of each other. It’s about whoever can control themselves. Honestly, it should get a little bit wild in there. They are going to let those emotions out.
“My advice for Caleb would be to box. Use your superior movement and angles. Don’t look for a knockout punch because things happen in boxing when you’re not looking for something. You can catch him off guard. Caleb does that very well, as he did with Anthony Dirrell.
“My advice for Benavidez would be to know how to cut the ring off. David cuts the ring off well but that’s the most important thing. Try to make Caleb move the way David wants to move him, and then it’s about timing. David is fast, he’s big, he can jab, but I believe he has to cut off the ring to slow the pace down.”
BUDDY MCGIRT, Trainer of Zhanibek Alimkhanuly and former trainer of Arturo Gatti and Antonio Tarver
“I think this is going to be a great fight and something that boxing needs. You have two of the best in the division and I personally think that this should open the door for more great fights to happen in boxing. This is opening the door and letting people know that real fighters still fight each other.
“You have to be able to control the bad blood. You can’t go in there with one thing in mind, just trying to knock him out. You can walk into something you might not want to. You have to take it and use it to your advantage and use it in a way that’s going to make the fight easier. If you go in there trying to gun him out, you’ll wind up getting gunned out.
“Father and son combinations are all different. It’s all about how if things aren’t going according to their plan, how can David and Jose Sr. get on the same page in that one minute in between rounds?
“If I was training Caleb, one of the things I would be telling him is that you can’t give him the same look every round. When Benavidez starts throwing his combinations, you have to punch back to break his rhythm. You can’t just let him get into a rhythm because then it’s going to be a long night. There’s an old saying, ‘You can’t punch and block punches at the same time.’ If Benavidez is throwing punches, throw one right down the pike to try to break his rhythm and give him different looks.”
|
|
|
|
Benavidez vs. Plant: trainers' roundtable
Top trainers Derrick James, Bob Santos, SugarHill Steward and Buddy McGirt put their collective wisdom together to preview and breakdown the upcoming showdown between super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavidez and Caleb Plant during a virtual media roundtable on Thursday. Some of boxing’s best strategists expect an intriguing clash of styles and personalities in the long-awaited showdown. Benavidez vs. Plant headlines a Showtime pay-per-view event beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT on Saturday, March 25th from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas in an event presented by Premier Boxing Champions. Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased through AXS.com.
Here is what the trainers had to say Thursday:
DERRICK JAMES, Trainer of Errol Spence Jr., Jermell Charlo and Frank Martin
“This is an interesting fight. I like both of those guys and I’ve known them for a while. It comes down to who can take it. Who can implement what they do best? Both have fast hands and are athletic. It’s going to come down to fortitude.
“Both guys share the weakness of depth. Because they’ve never had to dig themselves out of trouble. That’s what we don’t know about, because we haven’t really seen them have to do that. It may not be their weakness, but looking at it from the outside, we don’t really know.
“When I’ve had a fighter who has bad blood with an opponent like Benavidez and Plant, I had to make one strategy for fighting and one for boxing. Whatever he felt, I had to coach him from that perspective during the fight.
“A lot of times if I see something brewing in the opposite corner where the father might be getting emotional, I might say something really loud so that he can hear me. Something the opposite of what I really want, just to ruffle them up. That can make the father and son question each other. It’s very hard to be on the same page.
“If I was fighting David Benavidez, I would do my best to not let him be himself. I would do whatever I could to offset him. The best way is probably with movement. Because whenever he stands in front of you, it’s a bad day. You better practice holding and clinching, because if you don’t, it’s going to be a long night.
“If I’m training Benavidez, I’d tell him he has to pressure Caleb. But you have to watch out, because Caleb sets traps. You have to back him down at a distance and hope that he’ll succumb to the pressure. Caleb is a great counter puncher and has great defense. You have to stay two steps ahead of him.”
BOB SANTOS, Trainer of Mario Barrios, Alberto Puello, Hector Luis Garcia and Carlos Adames
“I know both guys very well. The bad blood is real. I’ve been cordial with both guys and I’ve been in the middle of it sometimes. We’ve all known these two have been on a head-on collision course.
“I think it’s going to be brutal at times in there. But if Benavidez gets too intense, he could get into some trouble. We’ll see how it plays out.
“People are going to be surprised with Benavidez, because he’s chose to fight the way he has, so that he can make a name for himself. But he’s really a savant. He’s a lot smarter in the ring than people think. I think he can do more things than Caleb Plant can in the end, but the only thing I’m worried about is how much he’s talked about going for the knockout. If he stays within himself, I like him to break Plant down.
“I think both of their stocks are going to rise in this fight. Eventually, Benavidez will force Plant to fight. He’s going to go through the fire and I’m interested to see how he reacts.
“The father-son, trainer-fighter dynamic in training camp is a good thing, because they know how to push their kid. The problems come from guiding the corner. When I was with Robert and Ruben Guerrero, we were fighting Danny Garcia and we were up in the rounds, but after Robert got hit with a good shot, I thought his dad got emotional and stopped caring about winning the rounds. Caleb can turn things up in a way that could potentially make the Benavidez corner panic.
“I would tell Caleb to keep turning Benavidez. He’s gotta use his angles. I’d be MMA all night clinching and holding with him, because you can’t let him get comfortable.
“For Benavidez, it’s all about controlled aggression. He really can’t stand Caleb. He wants to hurt the guy. If I’m the trainer I’m stressing that you have to be methodical. Work behind the jab and control the distance.”
SUGARHILL STEWARD, Trainer of Tyson Fury, Anthony Dirrell and Vladimir Shishkin
“This is one of the biggest fights in boxing right now. This is one of those fights that really interests me. You have two former world champions, two young fighters that are at the top of their game. As we all know, there’s some bad blood. There’s more than just a fight on the line. It’s something personal.
“Both of these fighters are at the top. They both have fast hands and they both have the ability to knock each other out. It just makes it such an exciting fight at 168 pounds. They’ve both been asking for the best, and here you go, we’ve got two of the best right here.
“With Anthony Dirrell, we had two different game plans for Benavidez and Plant. With Benavidez, it was to box him and to be strong. With Caleb, it wasn’t to box him it was to pressure him more because he’s a good boxer himself and he has beautiful movement. I didn’t want Anthony to box him. Anthony didn’t want to box him either. It was two different plans but with these two guys together, it’s an electrifying fight because they both can do both things – box and pressure. It’s whoever sticks to their game plan.
“There’s going to be a lot of emotions in this one. I think both of them are going to be emotional because they are going to bring it out of each other. It’s about whoever can control themselves. Honestly, it should get a little bit wild in there. They are going to let those emotions out.
“My advice for Caleb would be to box. Use your superior movement and angles. Don’t look for a knockout punch because things happen in boxing when you’re not looking for something. You can catch him off guard. Caleb does that very well, as he did with Anthony Dirrell.
“My advice for Benavidez would be to know how to cut the ring off. David cuts the ring off well but that’s the most important thing. Try to make Caleb move the way David wants to move him, and then it’s about timing. David is fast, he’s big, he can jab, but I believe he has to cut off the ring to slow the pace down.”
BUDDY MCGIRT, Trainer of Zhanibek Alimkhanuly and former trainer of Arturo Gatti and Antonio Tarver
“I think this is going to be a great fight and something that boxing needs. You have two of the best in the division and I personally think that this should open the door for more great fights to happen in boxing. This is opening the door and letting people know that real fighters still fight each other.
“You have to be able to control the bad blood. You can’t go in there with one thing in mind, just trying to knock him out. You can walk into something you might not want to. You have to take it and use it to your advantage and use it in a way that’s going to make the fight easier. If you go in there trying to gun him out, you’ll wind up getting gunned out.
“Father and son combinations are all different. It’s all about how if things aren’t going according to their plan, how can David and Jose Sr. get on the same page in that one minute in between rounds?
“If I was training Caleb, one of the things I would be telling him is that you can’t give him the same look every round. When Benavidez starts throwing his combinations, you have to punch back to break his rhythm. You can’t just let him get into a rhythm because then it’s going to be a long night. There’s an old saying, ‘You can’t punch and block punches at the same time.’ If Benavidez is throwing punches, throw one right down the pike to try to break his rhythm and give him different looks.”
|
A few words with Cody Crowley |
|
Canada's Cody Crowley (21-0, 9 KOs) will look to further cement his place in the star-studded welterweight division when he takes on veteran Abel Ramos on the pay-per-view telecast on Saturday, March 25th in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will be headlined by super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavidez and Caleb Plant in a long-awaited match-up between former champions. Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.
The 29-year-old Crowley is a native of Peterborough, Ontario, Canada but trains in Las Vegas with longtime coach Ibn Cason as he continues his ascent in the 147-pound division. After dispatching the previously unbeaten Kudratillo Abdukakhorov and rugged Josesito Lopez in his last two outings, Crowley hopes to take advantage of another opportunity on one of boxing’s biggest stages. Here is what Crowley had to say about training camp, Ramos and more:
On what he’s shown the boxing world with his most recent wins:
“With my last two wins broadcast on Showtime and Showtime pay-per-view, I proved to the world that I’m an elite fighter. I belong in every conversation regarding the welterweight division. I earned the right to challenge for the welterweight championship of the world."
On where he can still improve as a fighter:
"As a fighter, there is always room for improvement. I’m an all-around fighter. I can box, I can punch, I can take a punch and I can outthink any opponent who is in front of me. Improvement will come as I am able to get more activity and not deal with as much ring rust. Improvement will also come as the stakes in each fight are raised."
On his opponent, Abel Ramos:
"Abel Ramos is a solid fighter. I believe that he is coming to fight and will be very aggressive. But, he is now in the ring with an extremely hungry fighter. As the fight progresses, I will discover the holes in his style. With my non-stop aggression, I will suffocate anything he’s trying to do."
On where he stands in the welterweight division:
"I truly believe that I am one of the top three welterweight fighters in the world. The only ones ahead of me are Errol Spence Jr. and Terence Crawford. Fighting either of them, I can then prove to be the best in the world. I believe that I can beat either of them, because I’m younger and hungrier. There is no one who can keep up with my relentless attack and determination in the ring.
"Right now, I believe that I’m better than any of the other contenders. It’s time to fight for the world title. It’s time to fight Errol Spence Jr.”
On fighting in memory of his late father:
“Dedicating this fight and my career to honor my father's memory means everything to me. He was and still is my greatest fan. He pushed me to succeed. He believed in me when there was nobody else. Becoming welterweight champion of the world is our dream.
"With my father's passing, I started ‘55 for 55’ to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention. It is my goal to help people and save lives with this program and for it to be another way of honoring his memory."
|
|
|
|
A few words with Cody Crowley
Canada's Cody Crowley (21-0, 9 KOs) will look to further cement his place in the star-studded welterweight division when he takes on veteran Abel Ramos on the pay-per-view telecast on Saturday, March 25th in a Premier Boxing Champions event from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The pay-per-view telecast begins at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT and will be headlined by super middleweight rivals David “The Mexican Monster” Benavidez and Caleb Plant in a long-awaited match-up between former champions. Tickets for the live event, which is promoted by TGB Promotions and Sampson Boxing, are on sale now and can be purchased HERE through AXS.com.
The 29-year-old Crowley is a native of Peterborough, Ontario, Canada but trains in Las Vegas with longtime coach Ibn Cason as he continues his ascent in the 147-pound division. After dispatching the previously unbeaten Kudratillo Abdukakhorov and rugged Josesito Lopez in his last two outings, Crowley hopes to take advantage of another opportunity on one of boxing’s biggest stages. Here is what Crowley had to say about training camp, Ramos and more:
On what he’s shown the boxing world with his most recent wins:
“With my last two wins broadcast on Showtime and Showtime pay-per-view, I proved to the world that I’m an elite fighter. I belong in every conversation regarding the welterweight division. I earned the right to challenge for the welterweight championship of the world."
On where he can still improve as a fighter:
"As a fighter, there is always room for improvement. I’m an all-around fighter. I can box, I can punch, I can take a punch and I can outthink any opponent who is in front of me. Improvement will come as I am able to get more activity and not deal with as much ring rust. Improvement will also come as the stakes in each fight are raised."
On his opponent, Abel Ramos:
"Abel Ramos is a solid fighter. I believe that he is coming to fight and will be very aggressive. But, he is now in the ring with an extremely hungry fighter. As the fight progresses, I will discover the holes in his style. With my non-stop aggression, I will suffocate anything he’s trying to do."
On where he stands in the welterweight division:
"I truly believe that I am one of the top three welterweight fighters in the world. The only ones ahead of me are Errol Spence Jr. and Terence Crawford. Fighting either of them, I can then prove to be the best in the world. I believe that I can beat either of them, because I’m younger and hungrier. There is no one who can keep up with my relentless attack and determination in the ring.
"Right now, I believe that I’m better than any of the other contenders. It’s time to fight for the world title. It’s time to fight Errol Spence Jr.”
On fighting in memory of his late father:
“Dedicating this fight and my career to honor my father's memory means everything to me. He was and still is my greatest fan. He pushed me to succeed. He believed in me when there was nobody else. Becoming welterweight champion of the world is our dream.
"With my father's passing, I started ‘55 for 55’ to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention. It is my goal to help people and save lives with this program and for it to be another way of honoring his memory."
|
El Tigre Promotions set to go in Houston suburbs |
|
El Tigre Promotions will host an evening of professional boxing this Saturday night, March 18th, at the Cleveland Civic Center in Cleveland, Texas (a suburb of Houston). The main event will see Houston native Juan Torres (9-5-1) taking on Aaron Chavers (9-10-1) of Oklahoma in a six-round heavyweight clash. Six other bouts are set to take place. The show will be streamed on the El Tigre Promotions Facebook page. Tickets are available by going to eltigrepromotions.com. Christian Schmidt will be the ring announcer.
|
|
|
|
El Tigre Promotions set to go in Houston suburbs
El Tigre Promotions will host an evening of professional boxing this Saturday night, March 18th, at the Cleveland Civic Center in Cleveland, Texas (a suburb of Houston). The main event will see Houston native Juan Torres (9-5-1) taking on Aaron Chavers (9-10-1) of Oklahoma in a six-round heavyweight clash. Six other bouts are set to take place. The show will be streamed on the El Tigre Promotions Facebook page. Tickets are available by going to eltigrepromotions.com. Christian Schmidt will be the ring announcer.
|
Jose Zepeda returns on March 25th |
|
|
Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN will return with its first 2023 Mexico Edition on Saturday, March 25th from the Domo Alcalde in Guadalajara. The main event features a ten-round junior welterweight bout between California's José “Chon” Zepeda (35-3, 27 KOs) and India's Neeraj “Gangster” Goyat (17-3-2, 7 KOs). Zepeda returns to fight after a gutsy but failed bid for the vacant WBC 140-pound title against Regis Prograis in November 2022. In the co-feature, Carlos “Chema” Ocampo (34-2, 22 KOs) of Ensenada, Mexico will fight a ten-round junior middleweight bout. Ocampo returns after a loss against Sebastián Fundora in October 2022 for the interim WBC 154-pound title. Also on the undercard, Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza (19-0, 16 KOs) of Guadalajara is scheduled to fight in a ten-round featherweight clash. The card is a co-promotion of Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing and will be broadcast on DAZN.
|
|
|
|
Jose Zepeda returns on March 25th
Golden Boy Fight Night on DAZN will return with its first 2023 Mexico Edition on Saturday, March 25th from the Domo Alcalde in Guadalajara. The main event features a ten-round junior welterweight bout between California's José “Chon” Zepeda (35-3, 27 KOs) and India's Neeraj “Gangster” Goyat (17-3-2, 7 KOs). Zepeda returns to fight after a gutsy but failed bid for the vacant WBC 140-pound title against Regis Prograis in November 2022. In the co-feature, Carlos “Chema” Ocampo (34-2, 22 KOs) of Ensenada, Mexico will fight a ten-round junior middleweight bout. Ocampo returns after a loss against Sebastián Fundora in October 2022 for the interim WBC 154-pound title. Also on the undercard, Rafael “El Divino” Espinoza (19-0, 16 KOs) of Guadalajara is scheduled to fight in a ten-round featherweight clash. The card is a co-promotion of Golden Boy Promotions and Zanfer Boxing and will be broadcast on DAZN.
|
Q&A: Lucas Browne |
|
After being stopped by Australian countryman and rugby star Paul Gallen in round one in 2021 (his second loss in three fights), Lucas “Big Daddy” Browne looked to be finished as legitimate contender. However, Browne (31-3, 27 KOs) has since rallied with back-to-back victories, most notably dispatching Junior Fa in devastating fashion last summer. That success has led to his showdown with New Yorker Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller this Saturday, March 18th at Agenda arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Miller-Browne will be the ten-round main event of a pay-per-view show presented by Anatoly Sulyanov of Hardcore Boxing that also features a ten-round super featherweight bout between Dublin's Jono “King Kong” Carroll (23-2-1, 7 KOs) and ex-Colombian Olympian Miguel “The Scorpion” Marriaga (30-6, 26 KOs). Also broadcast that night will be a ten-round cruiserweight battle between fast-tracking Soslan “Cobra” Asbarov (3-0, 1 KO) of Kazakhstan and American Brandon Glanton (17-1, 14 KOs). Relaxed and good-natured, Browne gave his honest observations about the upcoming fight, how he pulled off the upset against Fa and a potential acting career after boxing.
On training camp:
A: Everything has been going well! I haven’t worried about my weight for this one because Jarrell is a big boy. So as long as I am fit, that was the main concern. I’ve been in Brisbane doing sparring and pads the last couple of weeks and now we are here. I trained the same for this fight as I did for the Junior Fa fight, with two things in mind: start faster, because I have always started very slow! And focus on my punching. I know I have power in my right hand; I just have to let it go. I’m not going to be trying to impress people with footwork or movement. F*** it, just punch (laughs).
About Jarrell Miller [both men have been found guilty of doping violations]:
A: He’s just a bully, he just comes forward. There is a constant come-forward! I don’t know if me having the power I have with my big jab if he will able to keep coming forward with me? Is he going to want to? The best thing about that is that I won’t have to go looking for it. This isn’t going to be a game of footwork. This is two silver backed gorillas coming together to have a fight. I think it will be very entertaining.
How he sees the fight unfolding:
A: I believe he will come out fast. I was expecting that, so I’m thinking I will do the same. He does lean to his right a lot, and coming from my right hand, he should be. So, it does mean I’m going to have to come up with my left a lot. So, we’ll see how that works out. The jab will be number one. I’m come with a straight right and start lifting his head up and see where it goes. I’ve also been working a lot on the body, so I want to work his body if I get the chance and just bang, basically.
On the perception his career was over after the Gallen loss:
A: I feel very good to be here! Unfortunately, in the Paul Gallen fight, the football player from Australia, I got hit the back of the head five times and I popped my ear drum. It’s not like I got chinned! I was fighting cross eyed, so they called it off. Fair enough. But, (now) I’m the guy that lost to a footballer. So, in the next one I had a regional belt fight against a decent Australian fighter. I won that one and then it was onto the Junior Fa fight and I knocked him out, and here we are. You really are only as good as your last fight. Fortunately for me, my last fight was a good one!”
Q: What would a win over Miller mean to you?
A: If I win over Miller, it means I’m still here. There were talks about me fighting Daniel Dubois for the WBA regular title, which is great! But the British Boxing Board of Control rejected me because I was too old. This was after the Fa fight. So, I’m thinking ok, judge me off the Gallen loss, fair enough. But I’ve since had two good wins over quality guys.
On fighting at age 43:
A: My age shouldn’t mean anything. I didn’t start until I was 32 and I haven’t been getting hit in the head since I was 16. I’m in it for as long as I can go, and if people say, ‘you’re too old,’ just because they think I’m too old, that’s wrong. If I was getting hit around the head and getting beaten, 100%, I would get it.
Q: Is Your career over if you lose?
A: No, it just means I’ll get another quick fight and get back on the board. If I do start losing regularly, I’ll give it up. I’m 43. I know this. I’m not stupid. I still want all my faculties in place and everything else. I know I’m on the back end of it (boxing). I know this, but I still want to go out with a bang.
Q: On life after boxing:
A: I’m not sure (laughs). I did Australian Idol. I was on season two. I’ve always liked to go to church and sing. I’m definitely considering acting. I could be a really good bad guy (laughs). I’m always the villain.
|
|
|
|
Q&A: Lucas Browne
After being stopped by Australian countryman and rugby star Paul Gallen in round one in 2021 (his second loss in three fights), Lucas “Big Daddy” Browne looked to be finished as legitimate contender. However, Browne (31-3, 27 KOs) has since rallied with back-to-back victories, most notably dispatching Junior Fa in devastating fashion last summer. That success has led to his showdown with New Yorker Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller this Saturday, March 18th at Agenda arena in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Miller-Browne will be the ten-round main event of a pay-per-view show presented by Anatoly Sulyanov of Hardcore Boxing that also features a ten-round super featherweight bout between Dublin's Jono “King Kong” Carroll (23-2-1, 7 KOs) and ex-Colombian Olympian Miguel “The Scorpion” Marriaga (30-6, 26 KOs). Also broadcast that night will be a ten-round cruiserweight battle between fast-tracking Soslan “Cobra” Asbarov (3-0, 1 KO) of Kazakhstan and American Brandon Glanton (17-1, 14 KOs). Relaxed and good-natured, Browne gave his honest observations about the upcoming fight, how he pulled off the upset against Fa and a potential acting career after boxing.
On training camp:
A: Everything has been going well! I haven’t worried about my weight for this one because Jarrell is a big boy. So as long as I am fit, that was the main concern. I’ve been in Brisbane doing sparring and pads the last couple of weeks and now we are here. I trained the same for this fight as I did for the Junior Fa fight, with two things in mind: start faster, because I have always started very slow! And focus on my punching. I know I have power in my right hand; I just have to let it go. I’m not going to be trying to impress people with footwork or movement. F*** it, just punch (laughs).
About Jarrell Miller [both men have been found guilty of doping violations]:
A: He’s just a bully, he just comes forward. There is a constant come-forward! I don’t know if me having the power I have with my big jab if he will able to keep coming forward with me? Is he going to want to? The best thing about that is that I won’t have to go looking for it. This isn’t going to be a game of footwork. This is two silver backed gorillas coming together to have a fight. I think it will be very entertaining.
How he sees the fight unfolding:
A: I believe he will come out fast. I was expecting that, so I’m thinking I will do the same. He does lean to his right a lot, and coming from my right hand, he should be. So, it does mean I’m going to have to come up with my left a lot. So, we’ll see how that works out. The jab will be number one. I’m come with a straight right and start lifting his head up and see where it goes. I’ve also been working a lot on the body, so I want to work his body if I get the chance and just bang, basically.
On the perception his career was over after the Gallen loss:
A: I feel very good to be here! Unfortunately, in the Paul Gallen fight, the football player from Australia, I got hit the back of the head five times and I popped my ear drum. It’s not like I got chinned! I was fighting cross eyed, so they called it off. Fair enough. But, (now) I’m the guy that lost to a footballer. So, in the next one I had a regional belt fight against a decent Australian fighter. I won that one and then it was onto the Junior Fa fight and I knocked him out, and here we are. You really are only as good as your last fight. Fortunately for me, my last fight was a good one!”
Q: What would a win over Miller mean to you?
A: If I win over Miller, it means I’m still here. There were talks about me fighting Daniel Dubois for the WBA regular title, which is great! But the British Boxing Board of Control rejected me because I was too old. This was after the Fa fight. So, I’m thinking ok, judge me off the Gallen loss, fair enough. But I’ve since had two good wins over quality guys.
On fighting at age 43:
A: My age shouldn’t mean anything. I didn’t start until I was 32 and I haven’t been getting hit in the head since I was 16. I’m in it for as long as I can go, and if people say, ‘you’re too old,’ just because they think I’m too old, that’s wrong. If I was getting hit around the head and getting beaten, 100%, I would get it.
Q: Is Your career over if you lose?
A: No, it just means I’ll get another quick fight and get back on the board. If I do start losing regularly, I’ll give it up. I’m 43. I know this. I’m not stupid. I still want all my faculties in place and everything else. I know I’m on the back end of it (boxing). I know this, but I still want to go out with a bang.
Q: On life after boxing:
A: I’m not sure (laughs). I did Australian Idol. I was on season two. I’ve always liked to go to church and sing. I’m definitely considering acting. I could be a really good bad guy (laughs). I’m always the villain.
|
Weigh-in report from Pittsburgh, PA |
|
|
Here are the boxers' weights for Friday night's show in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the Priory Grand Hall:
Oleh Dovhun 121.2 pounds -vs.- Juan Centeno 122;
Kante Irving 171 -vs.- Devaun Lee 169.2;
Joey Turk 205.6 -vs.- Isaiah Margheim 212.6;
Jordan Zlacki 150.2 -vs.- Eric Palmer 149; and
Devon Siegfried 185.4 -vs.- Matteo Gardner 189.8.
Promoters; Integrity Fighter Management and Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing
First Bell: 7 PM ET
The card will be streamed live on www.starboxing.tv
|
|
|
|
Weigh-in report from Pittsburgh, PA
Here are the boxers' weights for Friday night's show in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at the Priory Grand Hall:
Oleh Dovhun 121.2 pounds -vs.- Juan Centeno 122;
Kante Irving 171 -vs.- Devaun Lee 169.2;
Joey Turk 205.6 -vs.- Isaiah Margheim 212.6;
Jordan Zlacki 150.2 -vs.- Eric Palmer 149; and
Devon Siegfried 185.4 -vs.- Matteo Gardner 189.8.
Promoters; Integrity Fighter Management and Joe DeGuardia's Star Boxing
First Bell: 7 PM ET
The card will be streamed live on www.starboxing.tv
|
Wasserman reveals lenghty undercard for Bolton show |
|
Free-to-air boxing is back in the United Kingdom as Lyndon Arthur faces an IBO world title showdown live and exclusive on Channel 5. ‘King’ Arthur clashes with Argentina's Braian Nahuel Suarez for the vacant IBO 175-pound crown, on Friday March 24th at the University of Bolton Stadium. Arthur knows that by seeing off the dangerous Suarez, he will open the door to some huge fights in a lethal division and be in position to deliver the fights that fans want to see. The Manchester hero’s world title shot will kick-off Channel 5’s live and free coverage from 10pm and then be followed by a domestic dust-up that cannot fail to ignite.
Kane Gardner will have home support when he tackles Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker over eight rounds at junior welterweight. Both men know a statement victory, in front of a massive audience on Channel 5, can catapult them into title contention, so expect both men to leave everything in the ring.
Chloe Watson then follows, when she takes on Argentina’s Romina Gisel Sosa (3-1-4) over six rounds. Trained by Ricky Hatton, the formidable flyweight has built a perfect record since leaving the Great Britain amateur set-up for the pro ranks, and so bet on her to serve up yet another sizzling display on the big stage.
Wigan's James Moorcroft and Liverpool’s Nathan Bennett collide in an English welterweight final eliminator, just before the main event. This could be a blood-and-guts affair with a domestic title shot being dangled in front of these popular and proud 147-pound fighters.
Kazak puncher Sultan Zaurbek will go hunting for a tenth knockout win when he squares off against Facundo Acre, over eight rounds. The super featherweight southpaw hopes to put on a devastating display in Bolton next week.
Germany’s unbeaten middleweight Denis Radovan makes his UK debut as part of the stacked undercard. Radovan holds wins over North West favourites Luke Blackledge and Brian Rose but hopes to win a new army of local fans this time, by putting on a show against former European title challenger Fouad El Massoudi.
The former European and WBC interim super featherweight champion Katharina Thanderz continues to work her way back, with a six rounder in Bolton. Thanderz, from Norway but based in Spain, battled England’s Terri Harper for the IBO and WBC belts in 2020 and the 34-year old is ready to start making inroads at lightweight. Thanderz faces the unbeaten and confident Ioana Fecioru over six rounds.
Stockport middleweight Niall Brown faces Manchester’s Bahadur Karami (1-4-1) in a scrap over six rounds. Brown has established a perfect 7-0 record and will have eyes on climbing the domestic rankings - but knows he cannot afford to slip-up against his local rival.
Manchester's Bobby Faulker hasn’t lost a round so far as a professional and hopes to extend his flawless start to the paid ranks in Bolton, in a scheduled four rounder.
Salford lightweight Alex Murphy bolsters the local contingent, by boxing for the seventh time as a pro.
Big support is expected for the professional debut of Mancunian welter Ashley Marron. Marron will face Birmingham’s Daryl Pearce over four rounds to kick-start his journey.
The Wasserman Boxing card is bolstered by another international star, with the UK debut of Denmark’s Oliver Zaren, a 7-0 middleweight southpaw. Zaren squares off against Croatia’s Frane Radnic (11-37) over six rounds at the University of Bolton Stadium.
Lyndon Arthur vs Braian Suarez, for the IBO World Light Heavyweight Title is live and free-to-air on Channel 5 at 10pm on Friday, March 24.
Tickets are available via WassermanBoxing.com
|
|
|
|
Wasserman reveals lenghty undercard for Bolton show
Free-to-air boxing is back in the United Kingdom as Lyndon Arthur faces an IBO world title showdown live and exclusive on Channel 5. ‘King’ Arthur clashes with Argentina's Braian Nahuel Suarez for the vacant IBO 175-pound crown, on Friday March 24th at the University of Bolton Stadium. Arthur knows that by seeing off the dangerous Suarez, he will open the door to some huge fights in a lethal division and be in position to deliver the fights that fans want to see. The Manchester hero’s world title shot will kick-off Channel 5’s live and free coverage from 10pm and then be followed by a domestic dust-up that cannot fail to ignite.
Kane Gardner will have home support when he tackles Wolverhampton’s Conah Walker over eight rounds at junior welterweight. Both men know a statement victory, in front of a massive audience on Channel 5, can catapult them into title contention, so expect both men to leave everything in the ring.
Chloe Watson then follows, when she takes on Argentina’s Romina Gisel Sosa (3-1-4) over six rounds. Trained by Ricky Hatton, the formidable flyweight has built a perfect record since leaving the Great Britain amateur set-up for the pro ranks, and so bet on her to serve up yet another sizzling display on the big stage.
Wigan's James Moorcroft and Liverpool’s Nathan Bennett collide in an English welterweight final eliminator, just before the main event. This could be a blood-and-guts affair with a domestic title shot being dangled in front of these popular and proud 147-pound fighters.
Kazak puncher Sultan Zaurbek will go hunting for a tenth knockout win when he squares off against Facundo Acre, over eight rounds. The super featherweight southpaw hopes to put on a devastating display in Bolton next week.
Germany’s unbeaten middleweight Denis Radovan makes his UK debut as part of the stacked undercard. Radovan holds wins over North West favourites Luke Blackledge and Brian Rose but hopes to win a new army of local fans this time, by putting on a show against former European title challenger Fouad El Massoudi.
The former European and WBC interim super featherweight champion Katharina Thanderz continues to work her way back, with a six rounder in Bolton. Thanderz, from Norway but based in Spain, battled England’s Terri Harper for the IBO and WBC belts in 2020 and the 34-year old is ready to start making inroads at lightweight. Thanderz faces the unbeaten and confident Ioana Fecioru over six rounds.
Stockport middleweight Niall Brown faces Manchester’s Bahadur Karami (1-4-1) in a scrap over six rounds. Brown has established a perfect 7-0 record and will have eyes on climbing the domestic rankings - but knows he cannot afford to slip-up against his local rival.
Manchester's Bobby Faulker hasn’t lost a round so far as a professional and hopes to extend his flawless start to the paid ranks in Bolton, in a scheduled four rounder.
Salford lightweight Alex Murphy bolsters the local contingent, by boxing for the seventh time as a pro.
Big support is expected for the professional debut of Mancunian welter Ashley Marron. Marron will face Birmingham’s Daryl Pearce over four rounds to kick-start his journey.
The Wasserman Boxing card is bolstered by another international star, with the UK debut of Denmark’s Oliver Zaren, a 7-0 middleweight southpaw. Zaren squares off against Croatia’s Frane Radnic (11-37) over six rounds at the University of Bolton Stadium.
Lyndon Arthur vs Braian Suarez, for the IBO World Light Heavyweight Title is live and free-to-air on Channel 5 at 10pm on Friday, March 24.
Tickets are available via WassermanBoxing.com
|
Pinheiro gets headline spot, Apr. 1st in Orlando |
|
Several promising Cuban boxers, will be showcased on Saturday night, April 1st at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. Polish cruiserweight Adrian “Pretty Boy” Pinheiro (10-0-1, 9 KOs), fighting out of Orlando, will headline in the eight-round main event against Demetrius Banks (12-12-2, 5 KOs), of Detroit. The 25-year-old Pinheiro is coming off ha drawl this past February 25th against Isaiah Thompson. Banks is best known for ruining the professional debut of Antwaun Tubbs, the son of former world heavyweight champion Tony Tubbs, by way of a four-round technical knockout in 2014.
“Adrian is seeking redemption after he fought to a draw in his last fight (Feb. 25th vs. Isaiah Thompson),” added promoter Tony Blanco, who also trains Pinhiero. “He’s stepping up to fight his first scheduled eight-round bout and his first main event. He’s coming off a draw but he’s looking at it as a loss. He wants to put that fight behind and move forward. Not only did he want to go eight rounds, but he also wanted to fight a tough, durable opponent. Most fighters coming off a draw, they’d want a tune-up fight to build back their confidence, but Adrian is ready for what’s coming next for him in his career.”
In the six-round co-feature, 22-year-old Jeovanny Estela, 10-0, 3 KOs) is matched against Saul “Navajo” Corral (23-20, 13 KOs), of Mexico. Corrall, The battle-tested Corrall has been in the ring with world champions such as Sadam Ali and Victor Ortiz, as well as several contenders, and hot prospects.
Las Vegas heavyweight Henrich Ruiz Cordoba (1-0, 1 KO) is matched in a six-round bout against veteran Mexican fighter Jose “Olympico” Humberto Corrall (20-32, 12 KOs).
Cuban lightweight Idalberto Umara (9-1, 6 KOs), fighting out of Miami, is scheduled for a ten-round title fight versus an opponent to be announced. Umara scored a second-round technical knockout of Deivi Julio this past February 25th at Caribe Royale in Orlando... Miami-based welterweight Damian Lascaille (3-0, 2 KOs) faces TBA in a four -rounder... Orlando cruiserweight Daine Smikle (1-0), who was a member of the Jamaican National Boxing Team, is a former Connecticut resident (New Haven) like Blanco who has also resettled in Orlando. Smikle is in a 4-round match vs. TBA. Also fighting in the undercard is 4-rounders are Orlando super welterweight Ramiro De Jesus (2-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Bryan Duran, of Miami; Orlando cruiserweight A’Mire “Devine” Lewis (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, Orlando lightweight and Puerto Rico native Jonathan Cortes (1-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA; and Orlando’s super bantamweight Joshua Lebron (5-0-1, 4 KOs) vs. TBA.
|
|
|
|
Pinheiro gets headline spot, Apr. 1st in Orlando
Several promising Cuban boxers, will be showcased on Saturday night, April 1st at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida. Polish cruiserweight Adrian “Pretty Boy” Pinheiro (10-0-1, 9 KOs), fighting out of Orlando, will headline in the eight-round main event against Demetrius Banks (12-12-2, 5 KOs), of Detroit. The 25-year-old Pinheiro is coming off ha drawl this past February 25th against Isaiah Thompson. Banks is best known for ruining the professional debut of Antwaun Tubbs, the son of former world heavyweight champion Tony Tubbs, by way of a four-round technical knockout in 2014.
“Adrian is seeking redemption after he fought to a draw in his last fight (Feb. 25th vs. Isaiah Thompson),” added promoter Tony Blanco, who also trains Pinhiero. “He’s stepping up to fight his first scheduled eight-round bout and his first main event. He’s coming off a draw but he’s looking at it as a loss. He wants to put that fight behind and move forward. Not only did he want to go eight rounds, but he also wanted to fight a tough, durable opponent. Most fighters coming off a draw, they’d want a tune-up fight to build back their confidence, but Adrian is ready for what’s coming next for him in his career.”
In the six-round co-feature, 22-year-old Jeovanny Estela, 10-0, 3 KOs) is matched against Saul “Navajo” Corral (23-20, 13 KOs), of Mexico. Corrall, The battle-tested Corrall has been in the ring with world champions such as Sadam Ali and Victor Ortiz, as well as several contenders, and hot prospects.
Las Vegas heavyweight Henrich Ruiz Cordoba (1-0, 1 KO) is matched in a six-round bout against veteran Mexican fighter Jose “Olympico” Humberto Corrall (20-32, 12 KOs).
Cuban lightweight Idalberto Umara (9-1, 6 KOs), fighting out of Miami, is scheduled for a ten-round title fight versus an opponent to be announced. Umara scored a second-round technical knockout of Deivi Julio this past February 25th at Caribe Royale in Orlando... Miami-based welterweight Damian Lascaille (3-0, 2 KOs) faces TBA in a four -rounder... Orlando cruiserweight Daine Smikle (1-0), who was a member of the Jamaican National Boxing Team, is a former Connecticut resident (New Haven) like Blanco who has also resettled in Orlando. Smikle is in a 4-round match vs. TBA. Also fighting in the undercard is 4-rounders are Orlando super welterweight Ramiro De Jesus (2-0, 1 KO) vs. pro-debuting Bryan Duran, of Miami; Orlando cruiserweight A’Mire “Devine” Lewis (4-0, 3 KOs) vs. TBA, Orlando lightweight and Puerto Rico native Jonathan Cortes (1-0, 1 KO) vs. TBA; and Orlando’s super bantamweight Joshua Lebron (5-0-1, 4 KOs) vs. TBA.
|
