Shakur Stevenson signs with Zuffa |
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Zuffa boxing announced a huge signing on Thursday, coming to terms with undefeated, four-division champion Shakur Stevenson. Zuffa social media provided the following quote from the 29 year-old Stevenson: "Now that I'm with Zuffa, we can make any fight happen. There are no restrictions. Boxing ain't the same anymore. Zuffa is about the best fighting the best. So, let's do it." Stevenson's last fight was in February in New York City's Madison Square Garden. In that outing, he won the world junior welterweight championship, routing Teofimo Lopez over twelve one-sided rounds. All three judges agreed on a tally of 119-109 for Stevenson (27-0 including the World Series of Boxing). Punchstat numbers favored Stevenson by a wide margin, 165-72 in punches landed.
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Shakur Stevenson signs with Zuffa
Zuffa boxing announced a huge signing on Thursday, coming to terms with undefeated, four-division champion Shakur Stevenson. Zuffa social media provided the following quote from the 29 year-old Stevenson: "Now that I'm with Zuffa, we can make any fight happen. There are no restrictions. Boxing ain't the same anymore. Zuffa is about the best fighting the best. So, let's do it." Stevenson's last fight was in February in New York City's Madison Square Garden. In that outing, he won the world junior welterweight championship, routing Teofimo Lopez over twelve one-sided rounds. All three judges agreed on a tally of 119-109 for Stevenson (27-0 including the World Series of Boxing). Punchstat numbers favored Stevenson by a wide margin, 165-72 in punches landed.
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Formal announcement of Romero vs. Lopez |
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WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero (pictured) and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez will go toe-to-toe in a high-octane summer showdown Saturday, August 22nd in a PBC pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Romero and Lopez, two world class fighters meeting in their prime, each enter with extensive experience at the sport’s highest level, along with a fondness for engaging pre-fight build-up that should make this one of summer’s most-discussed matchups. The unorthodox power-puncher known as “Rolly” will make the first defense of his 147-pound title after earning the belt by dropping current Ryan Garcia on his way to a unanimous decision (Garcia is now the reigning WBC welterweight champion). Romero is looking to add another elite fighter to his resume in the former world 135-pound and 140-pound champion Lopez, who will debut at welterweight with a chance to become a three-division world champion and return to his perch on boxing’s pound-for-pound lists.
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) is known as one of the sport’s most unique and enigmatic personalities, which he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 30-year-old most recently earned a career-best victory in May 2025, as he captured the Interim WBA Welterweight Title with a unanimous decision over now WBC Welterweight World Champion Ryan Garcia, before being recently elevated. Romero not only completely neutralized Garcia’s vaunted left hook, but was also able to put Garcia on the canvas with a pair of vicious left hooks of his own in round two.
The Las Vegas native first rose to the rank of world champion in May 2023 stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the WBA Super Lightweight World Championship, before relinquishing it in March against Mexican superstar Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz. The Barroso fight was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against two-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim lightweight title in August 2020 by earning a [controversial] decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez.
“Four kings? I’m a black knight that delivers a smothered mate,” said Romero.
The 28-year-old Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) has worked his way to the top spot at 135 and 140 pounds throughout an already storied career, and can begin to conquer another weight class on August 22. Representing Brooklyn, New York and now training in Las Vegas with his father, Teofimo Lopez Sr., the two-division champion reached elite status with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Vasyl Lomachenko in 2020. The triumph saw Lopez unify 135-pound titles and establish himself as one of the next generation of boxing stars, fulfilling the promise he showed representing Honduras at the 2016 Olympics and throughout his undefeated run up the lightweight rankings.
Following a split-decision defeat to George Kambosos that saw both men hit the canvas, Lopez reinvented himself at 140 pounds, showing he was still amongst the sport’s best with an impressive run that saw him capture the world 140-pound crown over Josh Taylor in 2023. At junior welterweight, Lopez bested Arnold Barboza Jr., Sandor Martin (controversially) and Jamaine Ortiz, with his only formal blemish coming in his last outing in January, a decision loss to four-division champion Shakur Stevenson. “We don’t follow the game, we take over!” said Lopez. “That what I intend to show against a person I’ve known since 2015. Rolando is aware of his choice of accepting this fight, so without a doubt, this is a fight you do not want to miss. What greater way to take over than to fight at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where legends are born and history is made!”
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Formal announcement of Romero vs. Lopez
WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero (pictured) and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez will go toe-to-toe in a high-octane summer showdown Saturday, August 22nd in a PBC pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Romero and Lopez, two world class fighters meeting in their prime, each enter with extensive experience at the sport’s highest level, along with a fondness for engaging pre-fight build-up that should make this one of summer’s most-discussed matchups. The unorthodox power-puncher known as “Rolly” will make the first defense of his 147-pound title after earning the belt by dropping current Ryan Garcia on his way to a unanimous decision (Garcia is now the reigning WBC welterweight champion). Romero is looking to add another elite fighter to his resume in the former world 135-pound and 140-pound champion Lopez, who will debut at welterweight with a chance to become a three-division world champion and return to his perch on boxing’s pound-for-pound lists.
Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) is known as one of the sport’s most unique and enigmatic personalities, which he backs up with power in both hands as well as an exciting, unique style that makes him a must-see whenever he steps between the ropes. The 30-year-old most recently earned a career-best victory in May 2025, as he captured the Interim WBA Welterweight Title with a unanimous decision over now WBC Welterweight World Champion Ryan Garcia, before being recently elevated. Romero not only completely neutralized Garcia’s vaunted left hook, but was also able to put Garcia on the canvas with a pair of vicious left hooks of his own in round two.
The Las Vegas native first rose to the rank of world champion in May 2023 stopping Ismael Barroso in round nine to win the WBA Super Lightweight World Championship, before relinquishing it in March against Mexican superstar Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz. The Barroso fight was Romero’s first return to the ring since a May 2022 defeat against two-division champion Gervonta Davis. Prior to the Davis fight, the Las Vegas resident Romero won an interim lightweight title in August 2020 by earning a [controversial] decision over then unbeaten Jackson Marinez.
“Four kings? I’m a black knight that delivers a smothered mate,” said Romero.
The 28-year-old Lopez (22-2, 13 KOs) has worked his way to the top spot at 135 and 140 pounds throughout an already storied career, and can begin to conquer another weight class on August 22. Representing Brooklyn, New York and now training in Las Vegas with his father, Teofimo Lopez Sr., the two-division champion reached elite status with a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Vasyl Lomachenko in 2020. The triumph saw Lopez unify 135-pound titles and establish himself as one of the next generation of boxing stars, fulfilling the promise he showed representing Honduras at the 2016 Olympics and throughout his undefeated run up the lightweight rankings.
Following a split-decision defeat to George Kambosos that saw both men hit the canvas, Lopez reinvented himself at 140 pounds, showing he was still amongst the sport’s best with an impressive run that saw him capture the world 140-pound crown over Josh Taylor in 2023. At junior welterweight, Lopez bested Arnold Barboza Jr., Sandor Martin (controversially) and Jamaine Ortiz, with his only formal blemish coming in his last outing in January, a decision loss to four-division champion Shakur Stevenson. “We don’t follow the game, we take over!” said Lopez. “That what I intend to show against a person I’ve known since 2015. Rolando is aware of his choice of accepting this fight, so without a doubt, this is a fight you do not want to miss. What greater way to take over than to fight at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where legends are born and history is made!”
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PBC joins DAZN |
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Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) announced a new deal that will bring PBC’s marquee fight nights to DAZN. The first event in the new agreement will take place on Saturday, July 25th with the return of Errol Spence Jr. taking on Australian superstar Tim Tszyu and will continue with another blockbuster event when Rolly Romero and Teofimo Lopez clash on August 22nd in Las Vegas on DAZN on Prime Video, in a high-stakes showdown between two of boxing’s most explosive and outspoken talents. The agreement is a major step in DAZN’s continued investment in boxing and further strengthens a schedule that already delivers more premium fight nights than any other platform. PBC joins an unrivalled roster of boxing entities on DAZN, alongside Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, Top Rank, Queensberry, Boxxer, Salita Promotions, MF Pro and now TGB Promotions. PBC’s deep stable of world-class fighters will feature prominently on DAZN, including David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr., Sebastian Fundora, Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, the Charlo brothers, Tim Tszyu, Lamont Roach Jr., Jaime Munguia, Brandon Figueroa, Mario Barrios and Erislandy Lara, as well as an exciting new generation of champions and contenders, including Gary Antuanne Russell and Jesus Ramos Jr.
PBC’s leading pay-per-view events will continue to be to be available through Prime Video.
Together, DAZN and PBC will deliver a consistent schedule of major fight nights through your subscription (kicking off with non-PPV events on September 19 and October 17), alongside Pay-Per-View events exclusively on DAZN on Prime Video, combining global distribution with elite talent.
With TGB Promotions, Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, Top Rank, Queensberry, Boxxer, Salita Promotions and MF Pro aligned on the same platform, DAZN will be the home of the biggest possible fights and deliver a stacked schedule of unparalleled matchups across weight classes in the months ahead.
Shay Segev, DAZN Group CEO, said: “PBC’s agreement with DAZN is a landmark moment for boxing, particularly in the U.S., where the sport has such a passionate and deeply engaged fanbase. This partnership brings one of America’s most influential boxing brands onto DAZN and strengthens our position as the premier destination for the biggest fighters, promoters and events in the sport. As the global home of boxing, DAZN is committed to expanding access, elevating the fan experience and delivering the fights that matter most to audiences in the U.S. and around the world.”
“PBC is thrilled to align with DAZN to showcase world-class boxers and events on the global home of boxing,” said Tim Smith, PBC Spokesperson. “Over the last decade, PBC has led the sport in major events featuring the biggest pay-per-view stars and the top champions across all weight divisions. This move represents a fantastic opportunity for the sport of boxing, and most importantly, the boxers.”
Further details on upcoming PBC events on DAZN will be announced shortly.
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PBC joins DAZN
Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) announced a new deal that will bring PBC’s marquee fight nights to DAZN. The first event in the new agreement will take place on Saturday, July 25th with the return of Errol Spence Jr. taking on Australian superstar Tim Tszyu and will continue with another blockbuster event when Rolly Romero and Teofimo Lopez clash on August 22nd in Las Vegas on DAZN on Prime Video, in a high-stakes showdown between two of boxing’s most explosive and outspoken talents. The agreement is a major step in DAZN’s continued investment in boxing and further strengthens a schedule that already delivers more premium fight nights than any other platform. PBC joins an unrivalled roster of boxing entities on DAZN, alongside Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, Top Rank, Queensberry, Boxxer, Salita Promotions, MF Pro and now TGB Promotions. PBC’s deep stable of world-class fighters will feature prominently on DAZN, including David Benavidez, Errol Spence Jr., Sebastian Fundora, Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz, the Charlo brothers, Tim Tszyu, Lamont Roach Jr., Jaime Munguia, Brandon Figueroa, Mario Barrios and Erislandy Lara, as well as an exciting new generation of champions and contenders, including Gary Antuanne Russell and Jesus Ramos Jr.
PBC’s leading pay-per-view events will continue to be to be available through Prime Video.
Together, DAZN and PBC will deliver a consistent schedule of major fight nights through your subscription (kicking off with non-PPV events on September 19 and October 17), alongside Pay-Per-View events exclusively on DAZN on Prime Video, combining global distribution with elite talent.
With TGB Promotions, Matchroom Boxing, Golden Boy Promotions, Top Rank, Queensberry, Boxxer, Salita Promotions and MF Pro aligned on the same platform, DAZN will be the home of the biggest possible fights and deliver a stacked schedule of unparalleled matchups across weight classes in the months ahead.
Shay Segev, DAZN Group CEO, said: “PBC’s agreement with DAZN is a landmark moment for boxing, particularly in the U.S., where the sport has such a passionate and deeply engaged fanbase. This partnership brings one of America’s most influential boxing brands onto DAZN and strengthens our position as the premier destination for the biggest fighters, promoters and events in the sport. As the global home of boxing, DAZN is committed to expanding access, elevating the fan experience and delivering the fights that matter most to audiences in the U.S. and around the world.”
“PBC is thrilled to align with DAZN to showcase world-class boxers and events on the global home of boxing,” said Tim Smith, PBC Spokesperson. “Over the last decade, PBC has led the sport in major events featuring the biggest pay-per-view stars and the top champions across all weight divisions. This move represents a fantastic opportunity for the sport of boxing, and most importantly, the boxers.”
Further details on upcoming PBC events on DAZN will be announced shortly.
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Full line-up revealed for Zuffa Boxing 09 |
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Zuffa Boxing returns to New York City on Sunday, July 26th, with ZB09 live from the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden. Headlining wil be a super middleweight showdown between Edgar Berlanga and Steven Butler, supported by a twelve-round welterweight co-feature matching ex-j140-pound champ Richardson Hitchins against Ricardo Salas, along with a middleweight clash between Jalil Hackett and veteran Sergiy Derevyanchenko. The preliminary card features five additional bouts. Fans can catch every punch live on Paramount+, with the prelims beginning at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT and the main card starting at 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT. Don't miss a night of championship-caliber boxing as Zuffa brings its ninth event to the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden.
Here is the full bout listing:
Main Event – super middleweight (ten rounds): Edgar Berlanga -vs.- Steven Butler;
Co-Feature – welterweight (twelve rounds): Richardson Hitchins -vs.- Ricardo Salas; and
Middleweight (ten rounds): Jalil Hackett -vs.- Sergiy Derevyanchenko.
Here are the preliminary bouts:
Heavyweight (ten rounds): Otto Wallin -vs.- Vladyslav Sirenko;
Welterweight (eight rounds): Emiliano Moreno -vs.- Arnold Gonzalez;
Heavyweight (eight rounds): Kashaun Davis -vs.- Mihai Nistor;
Featherweight (eight rounds): Troy Nash -vs.- Ethan Perez;
Junior lightweight (eight rounds): Dominique Francis -vs.- Andres Sosa
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Full line-up revealed for Zuffa Boxing 09
Zuffa Boxing returns to New York City on Sunday, July 26th, with ZB09 live from the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden. Headlining wil be a super middleweight showdown between Edgar Berlanga and Steven Butler, supported by a twelve-round welterweight co-feature matching ex-j140-pound champ Richardson Hitchins against Ricardo Salas, along with a middleweight clash between Jalil Hackett and veteran Sergiy Derevyanchenko. The preliminary card features five additional bouts. Fans can catch every punch live on Paramount+, with the prelims beginning at 5:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. PT and the main card starting at 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT. Don't miss a night of championship-caliber boxing as Zuffa brings its ninth event to the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden.
Here is the full bout listing:
Main Event – super middleweight (ten rounds): Edgar Berlanga -vs.- Steven Butler;
Co-Feature – welterweight (twelve rounds): Richardson Hitchins -vs.- Ricardo Salas; and
Middleweight (ten rounds): Jalil Hackett -vs.- Sergiy Derevyanchenko.
Here are the preliminary bouts:
Heavyweight (ten rounds): Otto Wallin -vs.- Vladyslav Sirenko;
Welterweight (eight rounds): Emiliano Moreno -vs.- Arnold Gonzalez;
Heavyweight (eight rounds): Kashaun Davis -vs.- Mihai Nistor;
Featherweight (eight rounds): Troy Nash -vs.- Ethan Perez;
Junior lightweight (eight rounds): Dominique Francis -vs.- Andres Sosa
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Final presser held in Moscow for Gassiev vs. Kadiru |
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The official press conference took place in Moscow ahead of Saturday’s IBA show at the VTB Arena, where WBA heavyweight champion Murat Gassiev, representing Russia, will defend his title against late-replacement Peter Kadiru of Germany. The show will bring together traditional boxing and bare knuckle fights on a single fight card, with Gassiev vs Kadiru headlining the evening. Gassiev said, "Big boxing and big fights are returning to Russia, and serious athletes are coming here. I hope this is the right direction for the development of professional boxing not only in Russia, but also around the world. I would also like to thank everyone involved and thank my opponent for accepting this fight. God willing, everything will be good and after the fight we will both go home alive, healthy, and without injuries. I wish him good luck. May the strongest man win."
Kadiru, who stepped in after Tony Yoka withdrew from the title bout due to a back injury, said the opportunity represented the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition. "I am happy to be here and very happy to get this opportunity,’ Kadiru said. ‘This has been my dream since I was a little kid — to fight for the heavyweight championship of the world. Now I can make this dream come true. I just want to say thank you."
Speaking at the press conference, IBA president Umar Kremlev wished the global boxing community an unforgettable evening of top-tier sport. "To all boxing fans, athletes, and coaches, I hope you thoroughly enjoy watching these spectacular bouts on 11 July,’ Kremlev said. ‘Fights must always be competitive. The athletes are going to showcase their true potential and show exactly what they are striving for. I am certain every coach dreams of seeing their fighter become the best of the best, and that is exactly the path these athletes are on. I am confident it will be a truly electric evening. Crucially, it is a great pleasure to see these major events taking place right here in Moscow,’ he added. ‘We possess world-class conditions for staging such massive events, where top boxers from all over the globe can come together to compete. We are already planning even more events of this scale. I wish everyone a fantastic time watching what promises to be the standout event of the year."
IBA CEO Chris Roberts welcomed the participants and thanked Kremlev for his role in bringing major international boxing nights to the Russian capital. "It is certainly a privilege to be here," Roberts said. ‘It is absolutely fantastic to have this event in Moscow. We are surrounded by fantastic people and superb athletes. "This is something that Umar has continued to do and drives hard. We really appreciate the work that everybody is putting in, and we are looking forward to a fantastic evening."
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Final presser held in Moscow for Gassiev vs. Kadiru
The official press conference took place in Moscow ahead of Saturday’s IBA show at the VTB Arena, where WBA heavyweight champion Murat Gassiev, representing Russia, will defend his title against late-replacement Peter Kadiru of Germany. The show will bring together traditional boxing and bare knuckle fights on a single fight card, with Gassiev vs Kadiru headlining the evening. Gassiev said, "Big boxing and big fights are returning to Russia, and serious athletes are coming here. I hope this is the right direction for the development of professional boxing not only in Russia, but also around the world. I would also like to thank everyone involved and thank my opponent for accepting this fight. God willing, everything will be good and after the fight we will both go home alive, healthy, and without injuries. I wish him good luck. May the strongest man win."
Kadiru, who stepped in after Tony Yoka withdrew from the title bout due to a back injury, said the opportunity represented the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition. "I am happy to be here and very happy to get this opportunity,’ Kadiru said. ‘This has been my dream since I was a little kid — to fight for the heavyweight championship of the world. Now I can make this dream come true. I just want to say thank you."
Speaking at the press conference, IBA president Umar Kremlev wished the global boxing community an unforgettable evening of top-tier sport. "To all boxing fans, athletes, and coaches, I hope you thoroughly enjoy watching these spectacular bouts on 11 July,’ Kremlev said. ‘Fights must always be competitive. The athletes are going to showcase their true potential and show exactly what they are striving for. I am certain every coach dreams of seeing their fighter become the best of the best, and that is exactly the path these athletes are on. I am confident it will be a truly electric evening. Crucially, it is a great pleasure to see these major events taking place right here in Moscow,’ he added. ‘We possess world-class conditions for staging such massive events, where top boxers from all over the globe can come together to compete. We are already planning even more events of this scale. I wish everyone a fantastic time watching what promises to be the standout event of the year."
IBA CEO Chris Roberts welcomed the participants and thanked Kremlev for his role in bringing major international boxing nights to the Russian capital. "It is certainly a privilege to be here," Roberts said. ‘It is absolutely fantastic to have this event in Moscow. We are surrounded by fantastic people and superb athletes. "This is something that Umar has continued to do and drives hard. We really appreciate the work that everybody is putting in, and we are looking forward to a fantastic evening."
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BiYu Promotions ramping up for Aug. 14th |
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On Friday, August 14th, BiYu Promotions debuts its premier boxing series, "Fights Under the Lights," at Constellation Field in Sugar Land, Texas. The ten-round main event features a clash between light heavyweights Chavon Davis Stillwell (10-0, 8 KOs) of Mansfield, Ohio, now fighting out of Houston, Texas, and Izaiah Dent (10-0, 9 KOs) of Indianapolis. The eight-round co-feature showcases Texas super middleweights Jahyden Franklin Britton (9-0, 6 KOs) of Hempstead and Bruno Pola Ruiz (11-4-2, 9 KOs) of San Antonio.
While the featured bouts headline the evening, much of the spotlight will shine on two of boxing's most recognizable young personalities—the Grandy Twins. Steven Grandy (4-0, 4 KOs) returns in a scheduled four-round junior lightweight bout against Houston's Gerardo Chavez Reyes (3-5, 2 KOs), while his identical twin brother, Daniel Grandy (4-0, 3 KOs), faces Eduardo Tarango (1-5) of El Paso in a four-round lightweight contest. Long before they became professional fighters, Steven and Daniel Grandy captured the attention of millions as five-year-old boxing prodigies. Their talent and infectious personalities earned national appearances on The Steve Harvey Show, Good Morning America, ESPN, Fox Sports and numerous other media outlets. Today, the twins have evolved from viral sensations into respected professional fighters. Their journey includes multiple national amateur championships, appearances alongside many of boxing's biggest stars and one of the sport's largest social media followings among young fighters. Collectively, the brothers have amassed hundreds of thousands of followers across social media, where their training videos, family values and inspirational story continue to reach millions around the world.
Raised in Philadelphia and now based in Houston, Steven and Daniel remain grounded despite their growing fame. Trained since the age of two by their father, Daniel Grandy Sr., the twins have built a reputation not only for explosive performances inside the ring, but also for their discipline, humility and commitment to inspiring the next generation.
For BiYu Promotions founder and CEO Bobby Harrison, the inaugural event represents the beginning of a long-term vision. "This event validates my vision because it's the first major step toward building something special for the boxing community, not only here in Texas, but other regions in the United States and neighboring countries," said Harrison. "We've worked tirelessly to create a promotion that gives deserving fighters a platform to showcase their talent while providing fans with exciting, competitive fights. 'Fights Under the Lights' is more than just a name, it's a vision for the future of our company. Having fighters like Chavon Stillwell, Izaiah Dent and Jahyden Britton, along with the incredible story of the Grandy Twins, makes this a card we're extremely proud of. We want fans to leave knowing they've witnessed something special, and we hope this is just the beginning of many memorable nights under the BiYu Promotions banner."
Harrison believes featuring the Grandy Twins is an important part of growing the sport's audience. "Steven and Daniel represent everything that's exciting about the future of boxing," Harrison continued. "People have watched these young men grow up in front of the cameras since they were little kids. Now they're professionals with tremendous talent, tremendous character and a connection with fans that very few fighters possess. They bring a new audience to boxing while earning the respect of longtime fans through their performances in the ring. We're honored to have them as part of our first 'Fights Under the Lights' event."
In addition to the night's featured bouts, the August 14th card will showcase the following bouts:
John Torres (12-0-1, 11 KOs) returns in a scheduled six-round super middleweight bout against Ryan Adams (12-12-1, 7 KOs);
In six-round action, Joshua Franco (4-0, 3 KOs) meets Roberto Castro (3-4, 2 KOs);
In a six-round bantamweight matchup, Mauro Sierra (12-0, 6 KOs) faces Gabriel Bernardi Cruz (7-5, 3 KOs);
Ty Cassell (4-0, 2 KOs) meets Charles Scott Jr. (1-4) in a scheduled four-round lightweight bout; and
Rounding out the card, Roy Knight (3-1) returns in a four-round super middleweight contest.
Tickets for "Fights Under the Lights" are on sale now at www.biyupromotions.com.
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BiYu Promotions ramping up for Aug. 14th
On Friday, August 14th, BiYu Promotions debuts its premier boxing series, "Fights Under the Lights," at Constellation Field in Sugar Land, Texas. The ten-round main event features a clash between light heavyweights Chavon Davis Stillwell (10-0, 8 KOs) of Mansfield, Ohio, now fighting out of Houston, Texas, and Izaiah Dent (10-0, 9 KOs) of Indianapolis. The eight-round co-feature showcases Texas super middleweights Jahyden Franklin Britton (9-0, 6 KOs) of Hempstead and Bruno Pola Ruiz (11-4-2, 9 KOs) of San Antonio.
While the featured bouts headline the evening, much of the spotlight will shine on two of boxing's most recognizable young personalities—the Grandy Twins. Steven Grandy (4-0, 4 KOs) returns in a scheduled four-round junior lightweight bout against Houston's Gerardo Chavez Reyes (3-5, 2 KOs), while his identical twin brother, Daniel Grandy (4-0, 3 KOs), faces Eduardo Tarango (1-5) of El Paso in a four-round lightweight contest. Long before they became professional fighters, Steven and Daniel Grandy captured the attention of millions as five-year-old boxing prodigies. Their talent and infectious personalities earned national appearances on The Steve Harvey Show, Good Morning America, ESPN, Fox Sports and numerous other media outlets. Today, the twins have evolved from viral sensations into respected professional fighters. Their journey includes multiple national amateur championships, appearances alongside many of boxing's biggest stars and one of the sport's largest social media followings among young fighters. Collectively, the brothers have amassed hundreds of thousands of followers across social media, where their training videos, family values and inspirational story continue to reach millions around the world.
Raised in Philadelphia and now based in Houston, Steven and Daniel remain grounded despite their growing fame. Trained since the age of two by their father, Daniel Grandy Sr., the twins have built a reputation not only for explosive performances inside the ring, but also for their discipline, humility and commitment to inspiring the next generation.
For BiYu Promotions founder and CEO Bobby Harrison, the inaugural event represents the beginning of a long-term vision. "This event validates my vision because it's the first major step toward building something special for the boxing community, not only here in Texas, but other regions in the United States and neighboring countries," said Harrison. "We've worked tirelessly to create a promotion that gives deserving fighters a platform to showcase their talent while providing fans with exciting, competitive fights. 'Fights Under the Lights' is more than just a name, it's a vision for the future of our company. Having fighters like Chavon Stillwell, Izaiah Dent and Jahyden Britton, along with the incredible story of the Grandy Twins, makes this a card we're extremely proud of. We want fans to leave knowing they've witnessed something special, and we hope this is just the beginning of many memorable nights under the BiYu Promotions banner."
Harrison believes featuring the Grandy Twins is an important part of growing the sport's audience. "Steven and Daniel represent everything that's exciting about the future of boxing," Harrison continued. "People have watched these young men grow up in front of the cameras since they were little kids. Now they're professionals with tremendous talent, tremendous character and a connection with fans that very few fighters possess. They bring a new audience to boxing while earning the respect of longtime fans through their performances in the ring. We're honored to have them as part of our first 'Fights Under the Lights' event."
In addition to the night's featured bouts, the August 14th card will showcase the following bouts:
John Torres (12-0-1, 11 KOs) returns in a scheduled six-round super middleweight bout against Ryan Adams (12-12-1, 7 KOs);
In six-round action, Joshua Franco (4-0, 3 KOs) meets Roberto Castro (3-4, 2 KOs);
In a six-round bantamweight matchup, Mauro Sierra (12-0, 6 KOs) faces Gabriel Bernardi Cruz (7-5, 3 KOs);
Ty Cassell (4-0, 2 KOs) meets Charles Scott Jr. (1-4) in a scheduled four-round lightweight bout; and
Rounding out the card, Roy Knight (3-1) returns in a four-round super middleweight contest.
Tickets for "Fights Under the Lights" are on sale now at www.biyupromotions.com.
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Andy Ruiz signs with Matchroom |
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Former three-belt heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Matchroom – and his return to action live on DAZN will be announced this week. Ruiz Jr. (35-2-1 22 KOs) stunned the sporting world when he stopped Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden in New York in June 2019 to rip the WBA, WBO and IBF world titles from the Briton and became Mexico’s first ever heavyweight champion. He is now planning to return to the ring after a two-year absence following his majority draw with Jarrell Miller in Los Angeles in August 2024, the man he replaced to face Joshua in the Big Apple. Ruiz has also beaten Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz on his LA home patch-- prior to his battle with ‘Big Baby’ after Joshua regained his titles in a rematch in Saudi Arabia. The 36-year old is training once again with Manny Robles, the man in his corner on his historic night against AJ, and Ruiz Jr. is excited to be stepping back through the ropes once again, with that date is set to be announced on Friday.
“I’m so happy and thankful for signing with Matchroom and taking other step forward to continue my mission and to become a two-time champion of the world for Mexico,” said Ruiz Jr. “I believe everything happens for a season and I’m so grateful God is giving me a second opportunity to do everything right. Sometime God breaks you to make you a better person and a better fighter. I made history with Matchroom and the DAZN and best believe we are going to do it again in God almighty’s name, amen baby, let’s go! Thank you to all my coaches for still believing in me, we are going to make a big statement in the Heavyweight division.”
“We are very happy to be signing with Matchroom and Eddie Hearn,” said Andy Ruiz Sr., the boxer's manager and father. “I believe Matchroom is the best promoter to get Andy Jr. back to the top of the heavyweight division. Eddie gave Andy Jr. his first opportunity to become heavyweight champion, and with Matchroom and Eddie we will become two-time champion of the world – viva Mexico!”
“I’m delighted to welcome Andy to the team,” said Hearn. “The heavyweight landscape is always evolving, and a fully fit and firing Andy Ruiz Jr. is a nightmare for anyone in the division. Andy shocked the world in New York with his stunning victory over AJ, and if ‘The Destroyer’ from that night returns to the ring, there is no doubt he can become a two-time world champion.”
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Andy Ruiz signs with Matchroom
Former three-belt heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr. has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Matchroom – and his return to action live on DAZN will be announced this week. Ruiz Jr. (35-2-1 22 KOs) stunned the sporting world when he stopped Anthony Joshua at Madison Square Garden in New York in June 2019 to rip the WBA, WBO and IBF world titles from the Briton and became Mexico’s first ever heavyweight champion. He is now planning to return to the ring after a two-year absence following his majority draw with Jarrell Miller in Los Angeles in August 2024, the man he replaced to face Joshua in the Big Apple. Ruiz has also beaten Chris Arreola and Luis Ortiz on his LA home patch-- prior to his battle with ‘Big Baby’ after Joshua regained his titles in a rematch in Saudi Arabia. The 36-year old is training once again with Manny Robles, the man in his corner on his historic night against AJ, and Ruiz Jr. is excited to be stepping back through the ropes once again, with that date is set to be announced on Friday.
“I’m so happy and thankful for signing with Matchroom and taking other step forward to continue my mission and to become a two-time champion of the world for Mexico,” said Ruiz Jr. “I believe everything happens for a season and I’m so grateful God is giving me a second opportunity to do everything right. Sometime God breaks you to make you a better person and a better fighter. I made history with Matchroom and the DAZN and best believe we are going to do it again in God almighty’s name, amen baby, let’s go! Thank you to all my coaches for still believing in me, we are going to make a big statement in the Heavyweight division.”
“We are very happy to be signing with Matchroom and Eddie Hearn,” said Andy Ruiz Sr., the boxer's manager and father. “I believe Matchroom is the best promoter to get Andy Jr. back to the top of the heavyweight division. Eddie gave Andy Jr. his first opportunity to become heavyweight champion, and with Matchroom and Eddie we will become two-time champion of the world – viva Mexico!”
“I’m delighted to welcome Andy to the team,” said Hearn. “The heavyweight landscape is always evolving, and a fully fit and firing Andy Ruiz Jr. is a nightmare for anyone in the division. Andy shocked the world in New York with his stunning victory over AJ, and if ‘The Destroyer’ from that night returns to the ring, there is no doubt he can become a two-time world champion.”
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Adelaida Ruiz seeks revenge vs. Ginny Fuchs |
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On Saturday, July 18th, California's Adelaida Ruiz defends her WBC super flyweight championship against Ginny Fuchs of Houston at the Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino, California, aspart of a ProBox TV live broadcast. Fuchs (4-0) comes into this fight preceded by a brilliant amateur boxing career, where she represented the United States at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games and served as team captain. Ruiz is 18-1-1 but her lone loss came against Fuchs in August 2024. However, Ruiz won the vacant WBC title last November.
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Adelaida Ruiz seeks revenge vs. Ginny Fuchs
On Saturday, July 18th, California's Adelaida Ruiz defends her WBC super flyweight championship against Ginny Fuchs of Houston at the Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino, California, aspart of a ProBox TV live broadcast. Fuchs (4-0) comes into this fight preceded by a brilliant amateur boxing career, where she represented the United States at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games and served as team captain. Ruiz is 18-1-1 but her lone loss came against Fuchs in August 2024. However, Ruiz won the vacant WBC title last November.
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Romero vs. Lopez ticket information |
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Pre-sale tickets will be available beginning tomorrow at 10 a.m. PT for the summer showdown between WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez as they square off Saturday, August 22nd at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Pre-sale tickets for the live event are available beginning tomorrow, Thursday, July 9th from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com with code: PBC. The sale to the general public begins on Friday, July 10th at 10 a.m. PT through AXS.com. The show will be broadcast as a PBC pay-per-view event on DAZN and Prime Video.
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Romero vs. Lopez ticket information
Pre-sale tickets will be available beginning tomorrow at 10 a.m. PT for the summer showdown between WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez as they square off Saturday, August 22nd at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Pre-sale tickets for the live event are available beginning tomorrow, Thursday, July 9th from 10 a.m. PT until 10 p.m. PT through AXS.com with code: PBC. The sale to the general public begins on Friday, July 10th at 10 a.m. PT through AXS.com. The show will be broadcast as a PBC pay-per-view event on DAZN and Prime Video.
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IBA books Azerbaijan show for July 10th |
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Baku, Azerbaijan, will host an IBA pro boxing show at the Sea Breeze Resort on July 10th. The program will feature six professional bouts, bringing together boxers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Belarus and the Philippines. Azerbaijani boxers will be represented in five of the six contests. World amateur champion Subhan Mammadov (AZE) will make his pro debut in the minimumweight division against the Philippines' Richard Garde (12-4)
Also on the card: local men Sarkhan Aliyev and Saidjamshid Jafarov will meet Nurtas Azhbenov (KAZ) and Mikalai Vesialou (BLR), respectively. Another Azerbaijani, lightweight Tayfur Aliyev (4-1 plus additional crossover bouts), is set to take on Uzbekistan's Khurshidbek Rasuljonov (11-0). In the junior middleweight division, Nebi Isgenderov, a World Cup semi-finalist, will host Russia's Khikmet Garaev (1-1). Each bout involving an Azerbaijani boxer is scheduled for six rounds.
The card will also feature an eight-round super middleweight contest, as Rusia's Cheerav Ashalaev (4-0) meets Bulgaria's Mikhail Dolgolevets (pro debut).
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IBA books Azerbaijan show for July 10th
Baku, Azerbaijan, will host an IBA pro boxing show at the Sea Breeze Resort on July 10th. The program will feature six professional bouts, bringing together boxers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Belarus and the Philippines. Azerbaijani boxers will be represented in five of the six contests. World amateur champion Subhan Mammadov (AZE) will make his pro debut in the minimumweight division against the Philippines' Richard Garde (12-4)
Also on the card: local men Sarkhan Aliyev and Saidjamshid Jafarov will meet Nurtas Azhbenov (KAZ) and Mikalai Vesialou (BLR), respectively. Another Azerbaijani, lightweight Tayfur Aliyev (4-1 plus additional crossover bouts), is set to take on Uzbekistan's Khurshidbek Rasuljonov (11-0). In the junior middleweight division, Nebi Isgenderov, a World Cup semi-finalist, will host Russia's Khikmet Garaev (1-1). Each bout involving an Azerbaijani boxer is scheduled for six rounds.
The card will also feature an eight-round super middleweight contest, as Rusia's Cheerav Ashalaev (4-0) meets Bulgaria's Mikhail Dolgolevets (pro debut).
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Rolly Romero to defend title vs. Teofimo Lopez |
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Two of boxing’s most exciting stars will go face to face at a press conference in Los Angeles as WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez officially announce their world title clash taking place Saturday, August 22nd in a PBC pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The August 22nd event is promoted by TGB Promotions, in association with Takeover Promotions.
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Rolly Romero to defend title vs. Teofimo Lopez
Two of boxing’s most exciting stars will go face to face at a press conference in Los Angeles as WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero and former two-division world champion Teofimo Lopez officially announce their world title clash taking place Saturday, August 22nd in a PBC pay-per-view event available on DAZN and Prime Video from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The August 22nd event is promoted by TGB Promotions, in association with Takeover Promotions.
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Cardenas vs. Carrillo added to Los Angeles show |
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San Antonio super bantamweight Ramon “Dinamita” Cardenas (27-2 with 15 KOs) will face Panama's Leonardo Carrillo (20-1-1 with 9 KOs) in one of three new ten-round televised fights added to ProBoxTV’s broadcast (7:30 PM ET/4:30 PM PT) on Saturday, August 29 from the Galen Center in Los Angeles. Also added to The Contender Series portion of the show will be a ten-round lightweight battle between Luis “Koreano” Torres Valenzuela (22-1 with 13 KOs) and Jordan “Shortdog” White (20-2 with 12 KOs). Additionally, Filipino knockout artist Weljon Mindoro (17-0-1 with 16 KOs) will take on three-time world title challenger Carlos Ocampo (38-4, 26 KOs) of Mexico.
All three additional fights will support of WBC interim super middleweight champion Lester Martinez defending his belt for the first time against Luka “The Thunder” Plantic in the night’s twelve-round main event. Light heavyweight Najee Lopez (16-0, 13 KOs), takes on Colombia's Juan Carrillo (15-0, 11 KOs), in the co-feature. Tickets will be available for purchase on July 15.
Cardenas rose to prominence in May of last year by putting up a brave stand while challenging unified world super-bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue. He was able to drop Inoue in round two before being dropped in round seven and stopped in round eight. Age 30, Cardenas was last seen knocking out Mexico’s Erik Robles with one punch in round five back in December of last year. It was Cardenas’ fourth appearance on ProBoxTV.
Carrillo, originally from El Copey, Colombia, is an eleven-year pro who will be making his United States debut that night. Carrillo’s only loss came to Mukhammad Shekhov by unanimous decision in 2023. The 33 year-old Carrillo has won three consecutive fights since, most recently, a unanimous ten-round decision over then 15-3-1 Luis Robles Pacheco in May 2025.
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Cardenas vs. Carrillo added to Los Angeles show
San Antonio super bantamweight Ramon “Dinamita” Cardenas (27-2 with 15 KOs) will face Panama's Leonardo Carrillo (20-1-1 with 9 KOs) in one of three new ten-round televised fights added to ProBoxTV’s broadcast (7:30 PM ET/4:30 PM PT) on Saturday, August 29 from the Galen Center in Los Angeles. Also added to The Contender Series portion of the show will be a ten-round lightweight battle between Luis “Koreano” Torres Valenzuela (22-1 with 13 KOs) and Jordan “Shortdog” White (20-2 with 12 KOs). Additionally, Filipino knockout artist Weljon Mindoro (17-0-1 with 16 KOs) will take on three-time world title challenger Carlos Ocampo (38-4, 26 KOs) of Mexico.
All three additional fights will support of WBC interim super middleweight champion Lester Martinez defending his belt for the first time against Luka “The Thunder” Plantic in the night’s twelve-round main event. Light heavyweight Najee Lopez (16-0, 13 KOs), takes on Colombia's Juan Carrillo (15-0, 11 KOs), in the co-feature. Tickets will be available for purchase on July 15.
Cardenas rose to prominence in May of last year by putting up a brave stand while challenging unified world super-bantamweight champion Naoya Inoue. He was able to drop Inoue in round two before being dropped in round seven and stopped in round eight. Age 30, Cardenas was last seen knocking out Mexico’s Erik Robles with one punch in round five back in December of last year. It was Cardenas’ fourth appearance on ProBoxTV.
Carrillo, originally from El Copey, Colombia, is an eleven-year pro who will be making his United States debut that night. Carrillo’s only loss came to Mukhammad Shekhov by unanimous decision in 2023. The 33 year-old Carrillo has won three consecutive fights since, most recently, a unanimous ten-round decision over then 15-3-1 Luis Robles Pacheco in May 2025.
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Heavyweight action in South Africa |
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The heavyweight division will be in the spotlight in Johannesburg, South Africa on Saturday, July 11th. Undefeated José Kadima will headline for the first time in his career when he faces dangerous puncher Herbert Matovu. The battle, scheduled for ten rounds, will be the main event of the Golden Gloves card dubbed “Magic At The Palace,” which will take place at the Emperors Palace in Johannesburg. Kadima arrives with a record of 8-0 with 6 KOs. “At this early stage of his career I am confident that he will emerge as the most exciting heavyweight to ever come out of Africa,” Golden Gloves CEO Rodney Berman emphatically said. In the opposite corner will be Matovu, who holds a record of 9-1 with 8 KOs. Matovu’s only career defeat came on the world stage in the cruiserweight division, suffering a second-round stoppage defeat against Umar Salamov in February 2025. “We know Kadima is special… but Matovu, like him, is a puncher, so I anticipate a thrilling fight next month,” added an excited Berman.
The “Magic At The Palace” card, which will be broadcast live on SuperSport in South Africa, will be supported by top-level bouts that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats. In another ten-round heavyweight battle, Juan Alberts (8-0-1, 5 KOs) will test his strength against Jack Mulawayi (16-4-1, 12 KOs).
At featherweightt, Sanele Sogcwayi (5-0, 2 KOs) will look to maintain his perfect streak against Pritchard Dube (1-3-1, 1 KO) in a six-round bout.
In a six-round junior featherweight clash, Simamkele Tutsheni (8-1, 3 KOs) will collide with Monica Mkandla (9-0, 1 KO).
In four rounders, Ethan Peters (2-0, 2 KOs) will greet debutant Andre Bruwer. Meanwhile, in the light heavyweight division, Andre Malumba (2-0) will face Pieter Breytenbach (1-1, 1 KO)—the latter having lost a four-rounder against Alberts on his debut two years ago.
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Heavyweight action in South Africa
The heavyweight division will be in the spotlight in Johannesburg, South Africa on Saturday, July 11th. Undefeated José Kadima will headline for the first time in his career when he faces dangerous puncher Herbert Matovu. The battle, scheduled for ten rounds, will be the main event of the Golden Gloves card dubbed “Magic At The Palace,” which will take place at the Emperors Palace in Johannesburg. Kadima arrives with a record of 8-0 with 6 KOs. “At this early stage of his career I am confident that he will emerge as the most exciting heavyweight to ever come out of Africa,” Golden Gloves CEO Rodney Berman emphatically said. In the opposite corner will be Matovu, who holds a record of 9-1 with 8 KOs. Matovu’s only career defeat came on the world stage in the cruiserweight division, suffering a second-round stoppage defeat against Umar Salamov in February 2025. “We know Kadima is special… but Matovu, like him, is a puncher, so I anticipate a thrilling fight next month,” added an excited Berman.
The “Magic At The Palace” card, which will be broadcast live on SuperSport in South Africa, will be supported by top-level bouts that will keep the audience on the edge of their seats. In another ten-round heavyweight battle, Juan Alberts (8-0-1, 5 KOs) will test his strength against Jack Mulawayi (16-4-1, 12 KOs).
At featherweightt, Sanele Sogcwayi (5-0, 2 KOs) will look to maintain his perfect streak against Pritchard Dube (1-3-1, 1 KO) in a six-round bout.
In a six-round junior featherweight clash, Simamkele Tutsheni (8-1, 3 KOs) will collide with Monica Mkandla (9-0, 1 KO).
In four rounders, Ethan Peters (2-0, 2 KOs) will greet debutant Andre Bruwer. Meanwhile, in the light heavyweight division, Andre Malumba (2-0) will face Pieter Breytenbach (1-1, 1 KO)—the latter having lost a four-rounder against Alberts on his debut two years ago.
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WBO orders Bivol to defend vs. Smith |
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The WBO World Championship Committee has ordered world light heavyweight champion Dmitrii Bivol (pictured) to commence negotiations for a mandatory defense of his WBO championship against WBO interim champion Callum Smith. Bivol and Smith have twenty days to reach an agreement, failing which purse bid proceedings may be ordered. Bivol also holds the IBF and WBA title belts, so he does have plenty of leverage to decline a fight vs. Smith if he chose to do so. Bivol's last fight was in May, a title defense against Michael Eifert of Germany. Smith, a former super middleweight champion, won the WBO interim belt in a grueling February 2025 battle against Joshua Buatsi. He has not fought since.
In announcing the ruling, WBO president Gustavo Olivieri tweeted, "Consistent with the WBO Regulations and our longstanding One Champion Policy, the purpose of this mandatory championship contest is to discharge the mandatory title defense obligation & terminate the interim championship status."
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WBO orders Bivol to defend vs. Smith
The WBO World Championship Committee has ordered world light heavyweight champion Dmitrii Bivol (pictured) to commence negotiations for a mandatory defense of his WBO championship against WBO interim champion Callum Smith. Bivol and Smith have twenty days to reach an agreement, failing which purse bid proceedings may be ordered. Bivol also holds the IBF and WBA title belts, so he does have plenty of leverage to decline a fight vs. Smith if he chose to do so. Bivol's last fight was in May, a title defense against Michael Eifert of Germany. Smith, a former super middleweight champion, won the WBO interim belt in a grueling February 2025 battle against Joshua Buatsi. He has not fought since.
In announcing the ruling, WBO president Gustavo Olivieri tweeted, "Consistent with the WBO Regulations and our longstanding One Champion Policy, the purpose of this mandatory championship contest is to discharge the mandatory title defense obligation & terminate the interim championship status."
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Murat Gassiev's last-minute opponent: Peter Kadiru |
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On very short notice, German heavyweight Peter Kadiru will face WBA regular heavyweight champion Murat Gassiev. Kadiru, age 29 and with a pro record of 23-1 with 13 KOs, steps into a main event to be held on Saturday, July 11th at VTB Arena in Moscow. Kadiru replaces Tony Yoka of France, who was forced to withdraw due to a back injury. A Hamburg native, Kadiru is coming offa unanimous decision win over Senad Gashi in May. He's won nine in a row since a 2022 KO loss to nondescript Marcos Antonio Aumada. With world champion Oleksandr Usyk having recently vacated the three title he held, Gassiev has apparently been upgraded, meaning Kadiru has now stepped up for a shot at the full WBA heavyweight title.
The Russian Gassiev won the WBA regular title with a sixth-round knockout of Bulgaria’s Kubrat Pulev in December. The 32-year-old North Ossetia-native boasts a record of 33-2 with 26 KOs. Now, the man fittingly nicknamed ‘Iron’ returns home to defend the belt that Russia waited more than a decade to reclaim.
This matchup promises to be a compelling and competitive heavyweight clash. Both men are formidable punchers capable of ending the fight at any moment, setting the stage for an explosive, high-stakes encounter that could reshape the heavyweight landscape.
Gassiev said: “I was fully prepared and ready for Tony Yoka, but boxing is unpredictable and champions must adapt. Peter Kadiru is a big, strong, experienced fighter with a solid amateur pedigree and real power. Fighting at home in Moscow in front of my Russian fans for my first defence is special. I will be ready on July 11 and I intend to keep the WBA World Heavyweight Title in Russia.”
Kadiru said: “Since my win over Senad Gashi, I’ve been in the gym training and wanting to be back in the ring. I’m excited for the opportunity to travel to Russia and challenge for the WBA Heavyweight World Title on July 11. This is my moment. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance.”
Umar Kremlev, president of the de fscto promoter, the IBA, said: “We wish Tony Yoka a full and speedy recovery from his back injury. Murat Gassiev defending his crown at home against a resilient and dangerous fighter like Peter Kadiru at short notice perfectly embodies the spirit of the IBA. July 11th at VTB Arena will be a historic and unforgettable night for boxing fans.”
Florian Winter, Ringside Zone CEO: ‘We are grateful for this opportunity and we will show the world how great Peter Kadiru is. He is in great shape and he’s ready to give a proper champions’ fight to Gassiev.”
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Murat Gassiev's last-minute opponent: Peter Kadiru
On very short notice, German heavyweight Peter Kadiru will face WBA regular heavyweight champion Murat Gassiev. Kadiru, age 29 and with a pro record of 23-1 with 13 KOs, steps into a main event to be held on Saturday, July 11th at VTB Arena in Moscow. Kadiru replaces Tony Yoka of France, who was forced to withdraw due to a back injury. A Hamburg native, Kadiru is coming offa unanimous decision win over Senad Gashi in May. He's won nine in a row since a 2022 KO loss to nondescript Marcos Antonio Aumada. With world champion Oleksandr Usyk having recently vacated the three title he held, Gassiev has apparently been upgraded, meaning Kadiru has now stepped up for a shot at the full WBA heavyweight title.
The Russian Gassiev won the WBA regular title with a sixth-round knockout of Bulgaria’s Kubrat Pulev in December. The 32-year-old North Ossetia-native boasts a record of 33-2 with 26 KOs. Now, the man fittingly nicknamed ‘Iron’ returns home to defend the belt that Russia waited more than a decade to reclaim.
This matchup promises to be a compelling and competitive heavyweight clash. Both men are formidable punchers capable of ending the fight at any moment, setting the stage for an explosive, high-stakes encounter that could reshape the heavyweight landscape.
Gassiev said: “I was fully prepared and ready for Tony Yoka, but boxing is unpredictable and champions must adapt. Peter Kadiru is a big, strong, experienced fighter with a solid amateur pedigree and real power. Fighting at home in Moscow in front of my Russian fans for my first defence is special. I will be ready on July 11 and I intend to keep the WBA World Heavyweight Title in Russia.”
Kadiru said: “Since my win over Senad Gashi, I’ve been in the gym training and wanting to be back in the ring. I’m excited for the opportunity to travel to Russia and challenge for the WBA Heavyweight World Title on July 11. This is my moment. My team and I are locked in and Moscow should get ready for a big performance.”
Umar Kremlev, president of the de fscto promoter, the IBA, said: “We wish Tony Yoka a full and speedy recovery from his back injury. Murat Gassiev defending his crown at home against a resilient and dangerous fighter like Peter Kadiru at short notice perfectly embodies the spirit of the IBA. July 11th at VTB Arena will be a historic and unforgettable night for boxing fans.”
Florian Winter, Ringside Zone CEO: ‘We are grateful for this opportunity and we will show the world how great Peter Kadiru is. He is in great shape and he’s ready to give a proper champions’ fight to Gassiev.”
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Results from Japan |
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Yamato Hata W10 Tsubasa Narai... Yamato Hata (19-2-1) successfully defended his OPBF junior lightweight crown, overcoming fellow Japanese Tsubasa Narai (18-3) via a razor-thin majority decision. The iconic Korakuen Hall in the Japanese capital provided the backdrop for this high-stakes clash on July 4th, hosted under the Teiken promotional banner. From the opening bell, both warriors engaged in a highly strategic battle filled with constant exchanges. After ten rounds of non-stop action, the official judges’ scorecards reflected just how close and hard-fought the contest was: Katsuhiko Nakamura and Nobuto Ikehata both turned in identical scores of 96-94 in favor of the champion, while Kasutoshi Yoshida scored the bout a 95-95 draw.
Reon Fujino W6 James Clarion... Japanese super flyweight Reon Fujino continued his rise on the international scene, defeating Filipino challenger James Clarion on July 5yh in Kanazawa, Japan. Fighting in front of his hometown fans, Fujino controlled the six-round bout against a determined opponent. With the victory, Fujino improved his professional record to 10-0-1. Clarion, meanwhile, suffered the first defeat of his professional career, dropping to 7-1-1.
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Results from Japan
Yamato Hata W10 Tsubasa Narai... Yamato Hata (19-2-1) successfully defended his OPBF junior lightweight crown, overcoming fellow Japanese Tsubasa Narai (18-3) via a razor-thin majority decision. The iconic Korakuen Hall in the Japanese capital provided the backdrop for this high-stakes clash on July 4th, hosted under the Teiken promotional banner. From the opening bell, both warriors engaged in a highly strategic battle filled with constant exchanges. After ten rounds of non-stop action, the official judges’ scorecards reflected just how close and hard-fought the contest was: Katsuhiko Nakamura and Nobuto Ikehata both turned in identical scores of 96-94 in favor of the champion, while Kasutoshi Yoshida scored the bout a 95-95 draw.
Reon Fujino W6 James Clarion... Japanese super flyweight Reon Fujino continued his rise on the international scene, defeating Filipino challenger James Clarion on July 5yh in Kanazawa, Japan. Fighting in front of his hometown fans, Fujino controlled the six-round bout against a determined opponent. With the victory, Fujino improved his professional record to 10-0-1. Clarion, meanwhile, suffered the first defeat of his professional career, dropping to 7-1-1.
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Teremoana to face Savage next month |
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Australian heavyweight Teremoana Teremoana faces his most dangerous fight yet when he headlines an action-packed card – including a brand new Matchroom Boxing signing, Michael Zerafa – on the Gold Coast on Wednesday, August 12th, live on Fox Sports and DAZN’s Kayo Sports (plus, DAZN for the rest of the world). A 2024 Olympian, Teremoana is undefeated since resuming his professional career in December 2024 (11-0, 11 KOs) with seven successive stoppages to his name. But the Brisbane-based fighter is now preparing for his toughest test to date when he takes on American knockout artist DeAndre Savage in a heavy-hitting main event at Star Casino Gold Coast. Savage, age 35, has tasted defeat only once in his career, losing on points a year ago against US rival Brandon Moore, and has won all 11 of his other contests by knockout.
And Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn believes Savage is the perfect opponent for Teremoana to demonstrate why he believes the 28-year-old Australian will go all the way to the top. Hearn said: “Teremoana Teremoana is the future of the heavyweight division. And that’s why nobody wants the smoke with him. We offered this fight to the current Australian champion and a number of other undefeated heavyweights down under. They all swerved it. Savage stepped up and Teremoana gladly accepted the challenge. Make no mistake, this will be his hardest bout yet. Savage is a dangerous operator and he really can whack. But I have no doubt whatsoever that Teremoana will show why there are levels to this game and underline why we believe he is a World Champion in the making. The Gold Coast can look forward to a proper performance.”
Teremoana said: “From the very beginning, the goal has always been the same, to become the heavyweight world champion. This main event is a huge milestone, but it’s only another step on the path to that dream, God willing. To have my first professional main event here on the Gold Coast means everything. I get to do it in front of my family, my friends, and the people who have believed in me and supported me from day one. I give all praise and glory to God for every opportunity He’s placed before me. I want to thank everyone who has been part of this journey, those who’ve been there since the beginning and those who’ve joined along the way. Whether you’ve watched me compete internationally as an amateur, represent our countries at the Olympics, followed my 11 professional fights, or simply supported me from the sidelines, I wouldn’t be here without you. To everyone I’ve crossed paths with throughout my life, from rugby league, primary school, high school, TAFE, my plumbing days, I’d love to see you there. Your support has meant more than you know. I’m incredibly proud to represent both Australia and the Cook Islands every time I step into the ring. Come and support one of your own, a homegrown future heavyweight champion of the world, God willing. This journey is only just getting started.”
‘Pretty Boy’ Michael Zerafa, fresh from putting pen to paper on a new multi-fight deal with Matchroom Boxing, looks forward to a high-stakes co-main event clash with an opponent to be determined. The former world Title challenger from Melbourne (34-5, 22 KOs), returns to the ring for the first time since his no contest with Nikita Tszyu, when an accidental head collision forced the January fight off after three rounds.
The 34-year-old, who has been in with the likes of Erislandy Lara, Jeff Horn and Kell Brook, is determined to challenge for titles – and a big win on August 12 will put him in the mix for a big fight on a pay-per-view card later this year.
Another exciting Aussie fighter joins the Gold Coast undercard for August 12th as Brisbane super middleweight Jack Bowen (13-1, 10 KOs) looks to his march towards a title opportunity.
Australia’s new #1 flyweight will be determined too in an exciting 50-50 decider between Jasmine Parr (8-2, 3 KOs) and Jemma Peart (9-1, 3 KOs). And fans Down Under can look forward to seeing exciting flyweight Lekesha Woodbridge (4-0, 3 KOs) of Toowoombain against Thailand’s experienced Sothita Sitthical (13-5, 4 KOs).
Eddie Hearn added: “Our new broadcast partnership with Fox and DAZN’s Kayo Sports continues to flourish with another cracking card, stacked with some of the most talented fighters on the Australian scene who are ready to show the world what they are about. We are delighted to sign Michael Zerafa, who is no stranger to fight fans. He’ll be out to make a statement on August 12 and book a future, massive fight on a big pay-per-view card Down Under.”
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Teremoana to face Savage next month
Australian heavyweight Teremoana Teremoana faces his most dangerous fight yet when he headlines an action-packed card – including a brand new Matchroom Boxing signing, Michael Zerafa – on the Gold Coast on Wednesday, August 12th, live on Fox Sports and DAZN’s Kayo Sports (plus, DAZN for the rest of the world). A 2024 Olympian, Teremoana is undefeated since resuming his professional career in December 2024 (11-0, 11 KOs) with seven successive stoppages to his name. But the Brisbane-based fighter is now preparing for his toughest test to date when he takes on American knockout artist DeAndre Savage in a heavy-hitting main event at Star Casino Gold Coast. Savage, age 35, has tasted defeat only once in his career, losing on points a year ago against US rival Brandon Moore, and has won all 11 of his other contests by knockout.
And Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn believes Savage is the perfect opponent for Teremoana to demonstrate why he believes the 28-year-old Australian will go all the way to the top. Hearn said: “Teremoana Teremoana is the future of the heavyweight division. And that’s why nobody wants the smoke with him. We offered this fight to the current Australian champion and a number of other undefeated heavyweights down under. They all swerved it. Savage stepped up and Teremoana gladly accepted the challenge. Make no mistake, this will be his hardest bout yet. Savage is a dangerous operator and he really can whack. But I have no doubt whatsoever that Teremoana will show why there are levels to this game and underline why we believe he is a World Champion in the making. The Gold Coast can look forward to a proper performance.”
Teremoana said: “From the very beginning, the goal has always been the same, to become the heavyweight world champion. This main event is a huge milestone, but it’s only another step on the path to that dream, God willing. To have my first professional main event here on the Gold Coast means everything. I get to do it in front of my family, my friends, and the people who have believed in me and supported me from day one. I give all praise and glory to God for every opportunity He’s placed before me. I want to thank everyone who has been part of this journey, those who’ve been there since the beginning and those who’ve joined along the way. Whether you’ve watched me compete internationally as an amateur, represent our countries at the Olympics, followed my 11 professional fights, or simply supported me from the sidelines, I wouldn’t be here without you. To everyone I’ve crossed paths with throughout my life, from rugby league, primary school, high school, TAFE, my plumbing days, I’d love to see you there. Your support has meant more than you know. I’m incredibly proud to represent both Australia and the Cook Islands every time I step into the ring. Come and support one of your own, a homegrown future heavyweight champion of the world, God willing. This journey is only just getting started.”
‘Pretty Boy’ Michael Zerafa, fresh from putting pen to paper on a new multi-fight deal with Matchroom Boxing, looks forward to a high-stakes co-main event clash with an opponent to be determined. The former world Title challenger from Melbourne (34-5, 22 KOs), returns to the ring for the first time since his no contest with Nikita Tszyu, when an accidental head collision forced the January fight off after three rounds.
The 34-year-old, who has been in with the likes of Erislandy Lara, Jeff Horn and Kell Brook, is determined to challenge for titles – and a big win on August 12 will put him in the mix for a big fight on a pay-per-view card later this year.
Another exciting Aussie fighter joins the Gold Coast undercard for August 12th as Brisbane super middleweight Jack Bowen (13-1, 10 KOs) looks to his march towards a title opportunity.
Australia’s new #1 flyweight will be determined too in an exciting 50-50 decider between Jasmine Parr (8-2, 3 KOs) and Jemma Peart (9-1, 3 KOs). And fans Down Under can look forward to seeing exciting flyweight Lekesha Woodbridge (4-0, 3 KOs) of Toowoombain against Thailand’s experienced Sothita Sitthical (13-5, 4 KOs).
Eddie Hearn added: “Our new broadcast partnership with Fox and DAZN’s Kayo Sports continues to flourish with another cracking card, stacked with some of the most talented fighters on the Australian scene who are ready to show the world what they are about. We are delighted to sign Michael Zerafa, who is no stranger to fight fans. He’ll be out to make a statement on August 12 and book a future, massive fight on a big pay-per-view card Down Under.”
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JoJo Diaz turns to bare knuckles |
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BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing, announced the signing of former boxing champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. The decorated Southern California native will make his bare knuckle debut on the BKB 56 undercard on Saturday, July 18th live at L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles. The undercard will stream exclusively live and free on BKB’s official TikTok page (@bkbbareknuckle). [Diaz lost a ten-round gloved matchto Ashton Sylve on June 18th].
“JoJo Diaz is exactly the type of world-class athlete that continues to elevate BKB,” said BKB CEO David Tetreault. “He’s an Olympian, a former world champion, and one of the toughest, most respected fighters of his generation. His pressure style, toughness and willingness to engage make him a natural fit for bare knuckle competition. We’re thrilled to welcome him to BKB and couldn’t ask for a bigger stage than Los Angeles to introduce him to our fans.”
Said Diaz: “I’ve spent my entire career testing myself against the best fighters in the world, and I’m excited to start this next chapter with BKB. I’ve always been a fighter who comes forward, throws punches, and gives fans everything I have every time I step into the ring. That’s exactly what bare knuckle boxing is all about. To make my debut in my home state of California, in front of my hometown fans in Los Angeles, makes this opportunity even more special. I can’t wait to show everyone what ‘JoJo’ Diaz looks like inside the Mighty Trigon on July 18.”
A second-generation Mexican-American fighter, Diaz compiled an outstanding professional boxing career spanning more than 13 years, finishing with a record of 34-10-1 with 15 knockouts. The 33-year-old southpaw represented Team USA at the 2012 Summer Olympics before capturing the IBF 130-pound championship with a victory over Tevin Farmer in January 2020. He later added the WBC interim lightweight belt by defeating Javier Fortuna in July 2021.
Throughout his career, Diaz consistently competed among boxing’s elite, sharing the ring with world champions and top contenders including Devin Haney, Regis Prograis, William Zepeda, and many others. Known for his relentless pace, durability and fan-friendly style, Diaz fought 45 professional bouts while suffering just one stoppage loss.
Standing 5-foot-6 with a 64-inch reach, Diaz has competed from featherweight through junior welterweight, bringing the experience, grit and championship pedigree that have become hallmarks of BKB’s growing roster of former boxing world champions. Growing up in Southern California, Diaz originally dreamed of becoming a baseball player before turning to boxing after being encouraged by his father—a longtime boxing trainer—to learn self-defense. That decision launched one of boxing’s most accomplished careers of the past decade and now begins an exciting new chapter in bare knuckle competition.
BKB 56 marks the organization’s California debut and features a lineup headlined by the BKB debuts of former world boxing champions Victor Ortiz and Alfredo Angulo, alongside the return of BKB’s pound-for-pound king and two-division world champion LT “Smash” Nelson, undefeated bare knuckle standout Adel Altamimi, and an action-packed card showcasing many of the sport’s biggest stars.
Fans can watch Joseph “JoJo” Diaz’s BKB debut live and free exclusively on TikTok by following @bkbbareknuckle, while tickets for BKB 56 are available now at bkbtickets.com/bkb56.
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JoJo Diaz turns to bare knuckles
BKB Bare Knuckle Boxing, announced the signing of former boxing champion Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr. The decorated Southern California native will make his bare knuckle debut on the BKB 56 undercard on Saturday, July 18th live at L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles. The undercard will stream exclusively live and free on BKB’s official TikTok page (@bkbbareknuckle). [Diaz lost a ten-round gloved matchto Ashton Sylve on June 18th].
“JoJo Diaz is exactly the type of world-class athlete that continues to elevate BKB,” said BKB CEO David Tetreault. “He’s an Olympian, a former world champion, and one of the toughest, most respected fighters of his generation. His pressure style, toughness and willingness to engage make him a natural fit for bare knuckle competition. We’re thrilled to welcome him to BKB and couldn’t ask for a bigger stage than Los Angeles to introduce him to our fans.”
Said Diaz: “I’ve spent my entire career testing myself against the best fighters in the world, and I’m excited to start this next chapter with BKB. I’ve always been a fighter who comes forward, throws punches, and gives fans everything I have every time I step into the ring. That’s exactly what bare knuckle boxing is all about. To make my debut in my home state of California, in front of my hometown fans in Los Angeles, makes this opportunity even more special. I can’t wait to show everyone what ‘JoJo’ Diaz looks like inside the Mighty Trigon on July 18.”
A second-generation Mexican-American fighter, Diaz compiled an outstanding professional boxing career spanning more than 13 years, finishing with a record of 34-10-1 with 15 knockouts. The 33-year-old southpaw represented Team USA at the 2012 Summer Olympics before capturing the IBF 130-pound championship with a victory over Tevin Farmer in January 2020. He later added the WBC interim lightweight belt by defeating Javier Fortuna in July 2021.
Throughout his career, Diaz consistently competed among boxing’s elite, sharing the ring with world champions and top contenders including Devin Haney, Regis Prograis, William Zepeda, and many others. Known for his relentless pace, durability and fan-friendly style, Diaz fought 45 professional bouts while suffering just one stoppage loss.
Standing 5-foot-6 with a 64-inch reach, Diaz has competed from featherweight through junior welterweight, bringing the experience, grit and championship pedigree that have become hallmarks of BKB’s growing roster of former boxing world champions. Growing up in Southern California, Diaz originally dreamed of becoming a baseball player before turning to boxing after being encouraged by his father—a longtime boxing trainer—to learn self-defense. That decision launched one of boxing’s most accomplished careers of the past decade and now begins an exciting new chapter in bare knuckle competition.
BKB 56 marks the organization’s California debut and features a lineup headlined by the BKB debuts of former world boxing champions Victor Ortiz and Alfredo Angulo, alongside the return of BKB’s pound-for-pound king and two-division world champion LT “Smash” Nelson, undefeated bare knuckle standout Adel Altamimi, and an action-packed card showcasing many of the sport’s biggest stars.
Fans can watch Joseph “JoJo” Diaz’s BKB debut live and free exclusively on TikTok by following @bkbbareknuckle, while tickets for BKB 56 are available now at bkbtickets.com/bkb56.
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Mason doesn't let Albert reach the final Bell |
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Abdullah Mason TKO12 Albert Bell... Abdullah Mason (21-0, 18 KOs) defended his WBO lightweight championship against Toledo native Albert Bell (28-1, 9 KOs) with a twelftth-round TKO Saturday evening in front of a hometown crowd of 10,101 at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center. The 22 year-old southpaw started quickly, connecting with left and right hands to the body, but Bell tempered his early success with sharp counters. A headbutt in the second round also caused a cut above Mason’s left eye. Nevertheless, by the middle rounds, Mason was more aggressive than ever, landing jabs and straight left hands before launching a sustained body attack in the ninth. In the final round, Mason sprinted toward Bell to finish him, scoring a knockdown. Bell recovered, but another knockdown forced referee Marc Nelson to halt the fight at :45 of the twelfth round. The scorecards after eleven rounds had Mason winning 106-103 and 107-102 (twice).
Mason said, "I feel great. We had a game plan. We were going to work the body. Then they told me I was behind on the cards, so I stepped it up and finished the fight. He’s a great opponent. I knew it was going to be a great fight. I just had to take my time. I want to thank him for stepping in. And thank you, Cleveland.”
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Mason doesn't let Albert reach the final Bell
Abdullah Mason TKO12 Albert Bell... Abdullah Mason (21-0, 18 KOs) defended his WBO lightweight championship against Toledo native Albert Bell (28-1, 9 KOs) with a twelftth-round TKO Saturday evening in front of a hometown crowd of 10,101 at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center. The 22 year-old southpaw started quickly, connecting with left and right hands to the body, but Bell tempered his early success with sharp counters. A headbutt in the second round also caused a cut above Mason’s left eye. Nevertheless, by the middle rounds, Mason was more aggressive than ever, landing jabs and straight left hands before launching a sustained body attack in the ninth. In the final round, Mason sprinted toward Bell to finish him, scoring a knockdown. Bell recovered, but another knockdown forced referee Marc Nelson to halt the fight at :45 of the twelfth round. The scorecards after eleven rounds had Mason winning 106-103 and 107-102 (twice).
Mason said, "I feel great. We had a game plan. We were going to work the body. Then they told me I was behind on the cards, so I stepped it up and finished the fight. He’s a great opponent. I knew it was going to be a great fight. I just had to take my time. I want to thank him for stepping in. And thank you, Cleveland.”
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Carrington retains featherweight titile |
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Bruce Carrington W12 Rene Palacios... In the co-feature from Cleveland, Brooklyn, New York’s Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (18-0, 10 KOs) defended his WBC featherweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Mexico's Rene Palacios (19-1-1, 10 KOs). Carrington began the fight from a shoulder-roll stance, throwing quick shots before circling the ring and continuing to let his hands go. Palacios sought to box with Carrington, mixing aggression with well-placed shots to land short left hands and right hooks around Carrington’s guard. Ultimately, Carrington’s quicker reflexes and hand speed allowed him to outland Palacios in nearly every exchange, though the Mexican southpaw had his moments, including a body shot in the eleventh round that hurt Carrington. Nevertheless, the champion maintained his composure, relying on his footwork and counterpunching to regain control in the final round. Carrington won with scores of 116-112, 117-111 and 118-110.
Carrington said, “These are the fights that I have been wanting. There were some tough moments, including the body shot. But it’s part of the game. Body shots are the worst, but I had to fight on. I have that warrior mentality. I want to unify. I want to fight the best of the division. And that’s whoever the champions are.”
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Carrington retains featherweight titile
Bruce Carrington W12 Rene Palacios... In the co-feature from Cleveland, Brooklyn, New York’s Bruce “Shu Shu” Carrington (18-0, 10 KOs) defended his WBC featherweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Mexico's Rene Palacios (19-1-1, 10 KOs). Carrington began the fight from a shoulder-roll stance, throwing quick shots before circling the ring and continuing to let his hands go. Palacios sought to box with Carrington, mixing aggression with well-placed shots to land short left hands and right hooks around Carrington’s guard. Ultimately, Carrington’s quicker reflexes and hand speed allowed him to outland Palacios in nearly every exchange, though the Mexican southpaw had his moments, including a body shot in the eleventh round that hurt Carrington. Nevertheless, the champion maintained his composure, relying on his footwork and counterpunching to regain control in the final round. Carrington won with scores of 116-112, 117-111 and 118-110.
Carrington said, “These are the fights that I have been wanting. There were some tough moments, including the body shot. But it’s part of the game. Body shots are the worst, but I had to fight on. I have that warrior mentality. I want to unify. I want to fight the best of the division. And that’s whoever the champions are.”
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Top Rank undercard results from Cleveland |
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Fighting in his hometwon on Saturday's Top Rank show, Cleveland nativeTiger Johnson (18-0, 8 KOs) used a disciplined jab to control Christopher Guerrero (16-1, 9 KOs) en route to a ten-round unanimous decision in the welterweight divsion. Johnson established his jab from the opening bell, mixing in right hands and counter hooks. Guerrero had difficulty closing the distance, but was able to land right hands in the fifth. The U.S. Olympian regained control by the following round, exchanging at close range to land combinations before cruising down the stretch. Johnson won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 (twice). “Thank you to Cleveland for coming out,” said Tiger. “I hadn’t fought here in 10 years. It was a very hard camp. It means everything to fight here. A lot of people don’t know where I come from. I had to overcome a lot of adversity. Tell Devin Haney to come see me.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Lightweight Scooter Davis (12-0, 10 KOs) earned a workmanlike eight-round unanimous decision against Carlos Ramos (18-5-1, 10 KOs). The official scores were 77-75 and 78-74 (twice).
In the junior lighweight division, Ibrahim Mason (3-0, 3 KOs) scored a second-round technical knockout against Erik Hanley (1-3, 1 KO). Time of stoppage: 1:59.
Lightweight: Abdurraham Mason (3-0, 2 KOs) defeated Alvaro Huizar Cabral (1-1) via four-round unanimous decision. It was a shutout, with three scores of 40-36.
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Top Rank undercard results from Cleveland
Fighting in his hometwon on Saturday's Top Rank show, Cleveland nativeTiger Johnson (18-0, 8 KOs) used a disciplined jab to control Christopher Guerrero (16-1, 9 KOs) en route to a ten-round unanimous decision in the welterweight divsion. Johnson established his jab from the opening bell, mixing in right hands and counter hooks. Guerrero had difficulty closing the distance, but was able to land right hands in the fifth. The U.S. Olympian regained control by the following round, exchanging at close range to land combinations before cruising down the stretch. Johnson won by scores of 100-90 and 99-91 (twice). “Thank you to Cleveland for coming out,” said Tiger. “I hadn’t fought here in 10 years. It was a very hard camp. It means everything to fight here. A lot of people don’t know where I come from. I had to overcome a lot of adversity. Tell Devin Haney to come see me.”
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
Lightweight Scooter Davis (12-0, 10 KOs) earned a workmanlike eight-round unanimous decision against Carlos Ramos (18-5-1, 10 KOs). The official scores were 77-75 and 78-74 (twice).
In the junior lighweight division, Ibrahim Mason (3-0, 3 KOs) scored a second-round technical knockout against Erik Hanley (1-3, 1 KO). Time of stoppage: 1:59.
Lightweight: Abdurraham Mason (3-0, 2 KOs) defeated Alvaro Huizar Cabral (1-1) via four-round unanimous decision. It was a shutout, with three scores of 40-36.
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Ben Bonner KOs Austin Trout in BKFC |
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Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) kicked off the July 4th holiday weekend at the sold-out Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. former BKFC interim lightweight champion Ben “The Bomber” Bonner knocked out former boxing and recent BKFC welterweight champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout to win the vacant BKFC world lightweight (155-pound) title in the main event. Bonner, who hails from Middlesbrough, England, dropped Trout twice before the fight was stopped 30 seconds into the second round. Trout, a former WBA 154-pound champion, was gunning to become a two-division BKFC champion after vacating his 165-pound title. Bonner is now 6-2 under the BKFC banner, while Trout, fighting out of Houston by way of New Mexico, is now 5-1. “I told you at the start of the week, on America’s most famous birthday, that the U.K. will come and conquer, and that’s what we did tonight,” Bonner said in his post-fight interview. “There’s not a man in this division who can take what I’ve got, mate. Line them up and I’ll take them out.”
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Ben Bonner KOs Austin Trout in BKFC
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) kicked off the July 4th holiday weekend at the sold-out Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. former BKFC interim lightweight champion Ben “The Bomber” Bonner knocked out former boxing and recent BKFC welterweight champion Austin “No Doubt” Trout to win the vacant BKFC world lightweight (155-pound) title in the main event. Bonner, who hails from Middlesbrough, England, dropped Trout twice before the fight was stopped 30 seconds into the second round. Trout, a former WBA 154-pound champion, was gunning to become a two-division BKFC champion after vacating his 165-pound title. Bonner is now 6-2 under the BKFC banner, while Trout, fighting out of Houston by way of New Mexico, is now 5-1. “I told you at the start of the week, on America’s most famous birthday, that the U.K. will come and conquer, and that’s what we did tonight,” Bonner said in his post-fight interview. “There’s not a man in this division who can take what I’ve got, mate. Line them up and I’ll take them out.”
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BKFC undercard results from Phialdephia |
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On Friday’s BKFC show in Philadelphia, Florida's Britain Hart defended her BKFC women’s strawweight title for a fifth time against the previously unbeaten Dr. Sarah “TNT” Shell. Two judges scored the fight 48-47 for Hart, and one judge scored the contest 48-47 for Shell. Hart is now 11-3; Shell, who represents Phoenix and entered fight night as the No. 1 contender in the division, is now 3-1. “I feel loved by all of you guys, my team and my sponsors. I haven’t felt this loved in my whole entire life,” Hart said in her post-fight interview. “Thank you guys! Thank you, USA.!” Hart is now tied with Christine “Misfit” Ferea and “King” Kai Stewart for second most successful BKFC championship title defenses, with five. Luis “Baboon” Palomino holds the top spot in BKFC history, with six successful defenses of his BKFC lightweight title. Hart is also now tied with Ferea for second most victories in BKFC history (11), behind only Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt, who has 13.
Philadelphia middleweight Johnny “Cannoli” Garbarino upped his BKFC record to 5-0 with a unanimous decision at the expense of former BKFC light heavyweight champion Mike “The Marine” Richman. Garbarino scored the lone knockdown of the bout. Two judges scored the fight 50-44 and one judge scored it 48-46, all in favor of the unbeaten Garbarino. Richman, who hails from Minneapolis, is now 8-4-1 in BKFC's squared circle. “I broke my right hand. I would’ve liked to knock him out, but it wasn’t in the cards,” Garbarino said in his post-fight interview. “I’m here to fight. I’m here to prove myself. It is what it is.”
Philadelphia middleweight Cody “Chaos” Russell climbed to 3-0 with a unanimous decision victory over “Brutal” Jake Bostwick. The fight was declared a draw after five rounds but Russell won the sudden-death overtime round unanimously. The English-born Miami product Bostwick is now 5-3-1.
Philadelphia’s “King Zedekiah” Zed Montanez smashed his way to 2-1 with a second straight stoppage victory, needing just 99 seconds to knock out Matt “Ironfist” Maestas in lightweight action. Maestas, who hails from Denver, CO, is now 2-2.
Philadelphia’s Matt “White Chocolate” Turnbull turned heads in his BKFC debut, stopping Brandon “The Downs Warrior” Honsvick in the opening round of their lightweight matchup. Turnbull dropped Honsvick once before the referee called a stop to the fight with 11 seconds left in the opening stanza. The Hurricane, UT product Honsvick is now 1-3.
Levittown, PA cruiserweight Lex “The Grizzly Bear” Ludlow needed just nine seconds to shred his way to 4-0 at the expense of Drew “Hardbody” Nolan. That’s now back-to-back stoppage victories for Ludlow, who entered fight night as the No. 4 contender in the division. Nolan, who hails from Schenectady, NY, is now 1-4 under the BKFC banner.
In the first-ever BKFC One-Round War — a one-round, two-minute fight designed for maximum carnage -- Anthony “AP” Pagan defeated Zach “Lil Mac” Pannell via unanimous decision. Pagan, who represents Chester, PA, sent Pannell to the canvas twice, leading to the 10-7 verdict across all three of the judges’ scorecards. Pagan entered fight night with a 1-0 record; Pannell, who hails from Quarryville, PA, was 1-5 heading into tonight’s hotly anticipated matchup.
Philadelphia welterweight Pat “The Irishman” Sullivan evened his BKFC record to 2-2 at the expense of Ruben “The Beast” Arroyo. Sullivan dropped Arroyo once, leading to the TKO finish at 1:33 in the first round. The El Paso, TX product Arroyo is now winless in his first five trips to the squared circle.
Oxford, PA light-heavyweight Nick “The Groundskeeper” Willey edged out Eric “BrotherVibe” Westbury for the split decision victory in his BKFC debut. Two judges scored the fight for Willey (29-28, 30-27) and one scored the contest for Westbury (29-28). Westbury, who represents Washington, D.C., is now 0-2 in the Squared Circle.
Philadelphia’s Maxiono Griffin was victorious in his BKFC debut in the opening fight of the night, taking out Billy “The Preacher Diggin” Graves in the third round of their welterweight battle. Griffin recorded five knockdowns to the TKO finish at 1:02 of the third stanza. Graves, who hails from Abilene, TX, was also making his BKFC debut.
Here are some highlights of BKFC Founder/President David Feldman at his post-event press conference “I couldn’t be happier with how tonight turned out. It’s been a long, hard journey. Everyone travels on the long weekend in Philly, so for us to have a full house is just truly amazing. I’m very, very proud of my team and these (expletive) warriors that gave it their all tonight.”
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BKFC undercard results from Phialdephia
On Friday’s BKFC show in Philadelphia, Florida's Britain Hart defended her BKFC women’s strawweight title for a fifth time against the previously unbeaten Dr. Sarah “TNT” Shell. Two judges scored the fight 48-47 for Hart, and one judge scored the contest 48-47 for Shell. Hart is now 11-3; Shell, who represents Phoenix and entered fight night as the No. 1 contender in the division, is now 3-1. “I feel loved by all of you guys, my team and my sponsors. I haven’t felt this loved in my whole entire life,” Hart said in her post-fight interview. “Thank you guys! Thank you, USA.!” Hart is now tied with Christine “Misfit” Ferea and “King” Kai Stewart for second most successful BKFC championship title defenses, with five. Luis “Baboon” Palomino holds the top spot in BKFC history, with six successful defenses of his BKFC lightweight title. Hart is also now tied with Ferea for second most victories in BKFC history (11), behind only Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt, who has 13.
Philadelphia middleweight Johnny “Cannoli” Garbarino upped his BKFC record to 5-0 with a unanimous decision at the expense of former BKFC light heavyweight champion Mike “The Marine” Richman. Garbarino scored the lone knockdown of the bout. Two judges scored the fight 50-44 and one judge scored it 48-46, all in favor of the unbeaten Garbarino. Richman, who hails from Minneapolis, is now 8-4-1 in BKFC's squared circle. “I broke my right hand. I would’ve liked to knock him out, but it wasn’t in the cards,” Garbarino said in his post-fight interview. “I’m here to fight. I’m here to prove myself. It is what it is.”
Philadelphia middleweight Cody “Chaos” Russell climbed to 3-0 with a unanimous decision victory over “Brutal” Jake Bostwick. The fight was declared a draw after five rounds but Russell won the sudden-death overtime round unanimously. The English-born Miami product Bostwick is now 5-3-1.
Philadelphia’s “King Zedekiah” Zed Montanez smashed his way to 2-1 with a second straight stoppage victory, needing just 99 seconds to knock out Matt “Ironfist” Maestas in lightweight action. Maestas, who hails from Denver, CO, is now 2-2.
Philadelphia’s Matt “White Chocolate” Turnbull turned heads in his BKFC debut, stopping Brandon “The Downs Warrior” Honsvick in the opening round of their lightweight matchup. Turnbull dropped Honsvick once before the referee called a stop to the fight with 11 seconds left in the opening stanza. The Hurricane, UT product Honsvick is now 1-3.
Levittown, PA cruiserweight Lex “The Grizzly Bear” Ludlow needed just nine seconds to shred his way to 4-0 at the expense of Drew “Hardbody” Nolan. That’s now back-to-back stoppage victories for Ludlow, who entered fight night as the No. 4 contender in the division. Nolan, who hails from Schenectady, NY, is now 1-4 under the BKFC banner.
In the first-ever BKFC One-Round War — a one-round, two-minute fight designed for maximum carnage -- Anthony “AP” Pagan defeated Zach “Lil Mac” Pannell via unanimous decision. Pagan, who represents Chester, PA, sent Pannell to the canvas twice, leading to the 10-7 verdict across all three of the judges’ scorecards. Pagan entered fight night with a 1-0 record; Pannell, who hails from Quarryville, PA, was 1-5 heading into tonight’s hotly anticipated matchup.
Philadelphia welterweight Pat “The Irishman” Sullivan evened his BKFC record to 2-2 at the expense of Ruben “The Beast” Arroyo. Sullivan dropped Arroyo once, leading to the TKO finish at 1:33 in the first round. The El Paso, TX product Arroyo is now winless in his first five trips to the squared circle.
Oxford, PA light-heavyweight Nick “The Groundskeeper” Willey edged out Eric “BrotherVibe” Westbury for the split decision victory in his BKFC debut. Two judges scored the fight for Willey (29-28, 30-27) and one scored the contest for Westbury (29-28). Westbury, who represents Washington, D.C., is now 0-2 in the Squared Circle.
Philadelphia’s Maxiono Griffin was victorious in his BKFC debut in the opening fight of the night, taking out Billy “The Preacher Diggin” Graves in the third round of their welterweight battle. Griffin recorded five knockdowns to the TKO finish at 1:02 of the third stanza. Graves, who hails from Abilene, TX, was also making his BKFC debut.
Here are some highlights of BKFC Founder/President David Feldman at his post-event press conference “I couldn’t be happier with how tonight turned out. It’s been a long, hard journey. Everyone travels on the long weekend in Philly, so for us to have a full house is just truly amazing. I’m very, very proud of my team and these (expletive) warriors that gave it their all tonight.”
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Iwata to defend title vs. undefeated Badillo |
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Two-time light flyweight champion Shokichi Iwata defends his WBC title against Erick “Mini PacMan” Badillo of Mexico on Monday, July 20, at the Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo. Iwata (16-2) captured the vacant WBO light flyweight title in 2024 but lost it in his first defense. At the beginning of 2026, Iwata dethroned Thammanoon Niyomtrong to win the WBC version of the 108-pound title. Badillo holds a record of 19-0 and is coming off a win over ex-champ Elwin Soto.
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Iwata to defend title vs. undefeated Badillo
Two-time light flyweight champion Shokichi Iwata defends his WBC title against Erick “Mini PacMan” Badillo of Mexico on Monday, July 20, at the Kokugikan Arena in Tokyo. Iwata (16-2) captured the vacant WBO light flyweight title in 2024 but lost it in his first defense. At the beginning of 2026, Iwata dethroned Thammanoon Niyomtrong to win the WBC version of the 108-pound title. Badillo holds a record of 19-0 and is coming off a win over ex-champ Elwin Soto.
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Weigh-in report from Cleveland |
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Here are the weigh-In results from Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The following featured bouts will be shown on TNT, truTV, & DAZN at 8 p.m. ET:
Abdullah Mason 135 pounds vs. Albert Bell 134.9 (for Mason's WBO lightweight title);
Bruce Carrington 124.9 vs. Rene Palacios 125.5 (for Carrington's WBC featherweight title);
Tiger Johnson 147 vs. Christopher Guerrero 146.6 (ten rounds); and
Scooter Davis 134.3 vs. Carlos Ramos 134.8 (eight rounds).
To be shown on DAZN, Top Rank & DAZN's YouTube Channels, & Top Rank Classics on Roku, at 7 p.m. ET:
Ibrahim Mason 130.3 vs. Erik Hanley 129.4 (four rounds); and
Abdurrahman Mason 133.7 vs. Alvaro Huizar Cabral 134.8 (four rounds).
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Weigh-in report from Cleveland
Here are the weigh-In results from Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The following featured bouts will be shown on TNT, truTV, & DAZN at 8 p.m. ET:
Abdullah Mason 135 pounds vs. Albert Bell 134.9 (for Mason's WBO lightweight title);
Bruce Carrington 124.9 vs. Rene Palacios 125.5 (for Carrington's WBC featherweight title);
Tiger Johnson 147 vs. Christopher Guerrero 146.6 (ten rounds); and
Scooter Davis 134.3 vs. Carlos Ramos 134.8 (eight rounds).
To be shown on DAZN, Top Rank & DAZN's YouTube Channels, & Top Rank Classics on Roku, at 7 p.m. ET:
Ibrahim Mason 130.3 vs. Erik Hanley 129.4 (four rounds); and
Abdurrahman Mason 133.7 vs. Alvaro Huizar Cabral 134.8 (four rounds).
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Gassiev seeks replacement opponent for next week |
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The IBA announced that Murat Gassiev's planned defense of his WBA regular heavyweight title will go on. The uly 11th show in Moscow was thrown into jeopardy yesterday when French heavyweight Tony Yoka was forced to withdraw with a back injury. But the IBA quickly announced, "IBA Pro can confirm that the show on Saturday July 11th at Moscow’s VTB Arena will go ahead, however, with a replacement opponent for Gassiev’s first defene set to be announced imminently." Gassiev (33-2, 26 KOs) picked up the WBA's secondary strap with a one-punch knockout of former champion Kubrat Pulev in December in Dubai. The IBA added, "Further updates regarding the opponent for the main event will follow in due time."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JULY 2, 2026: French heavyweight Tony Yoka has withdrawn from his bout against Russia's Murat Gassiev, which was scheduled for July 11th in Moscow for Gassiev's WBA regular title. The move was caused by an injury to Yoka, according to reports by journalist Dan Rafael and L’Équipe. Yoka is on a run of very bad luck -- this latest setback follows the cancellation of his previous scheduled bout—set for April 25th in Paris against Britain's Lawrence Okolie, who was at the time WBC #1 contender. Okolie tested positive in a doping test four days before the fight. Yoka had been on a four-fight winning streak prior to that. Reports are that Gassiev is looking for a replacement opponent,
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Gassiev seeks replacement opponent for next week
The IBA announced that Murat Gassiev's planned defense of his WBA regular heavyweight title will go on. The uly 11th show in Moscow was thrown into jeopardy yesterday when French heavyweight Tony Yoka was forced to withdraw with a back injury. But the IBA quickly announced, "IBA Pro can confirm that the show on Saturday July 11th at Moscow’s VTB Arena will go ahead, however, with a replacement opponent for Gassiev’s first defene set to be announced imminently." Gassiev (33-2, 26 KOs) picked up the WBA's secondary strap with a one-punch knockout of former champion Kubrat Pulev in December in Dubai. The IBA added, "Further updates regarding the opponent for the main event will follow in due time."
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JULY 2, 2026: French heavyweight Tony Yoka has withdrawn from his bout against Russia's Murat Gassiev, which was scheduled for July 11th in Moscow for Gassiev's WBA regular title. The move was caused by an injury to Yoka, according to reports by journalist Dan Rafael and L’Équipe. Yoka is on a run of very bad luck -- this latest setback follows the cancellation of his previous scheduled bout—set for April 25th in Paris against Britain's Lawrence Okolie, who was at the time WBC #1 contender. Okolie tested positive in a doping test four days before the fight. Yoka had been on a four-fight winning streak prior to that. Reports are that Gassiev is looking for a replacement opponent,
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Beltless Gadzhimagomedov returns on July 11th |
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Former champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov returns to action on July 11th against Mexico’s Kevin Martinez. One of Russia’s most accomplished boxers, Gadzhimagomedov was the WBA bridgerweight (224-pound) champion until a fews days ago, when the WBA announced it was abolishing the new weight class. He will now face Mexican heavyweight Kevin Martinez (14-1, 10 KOs) in a ten-round contest at IBA.Pro 19 in Moscow at VTB Arena. An Olympic silver medallist and multiple-time world champion in the amateur ranks, Gadzhimagomedov has established himself as one of the leading names to emerge from the IBA system. Since turning professional, the Russian has remained unbeaten, combining elite amateur pedigree with growing confidence in the professional ranks.
The main event on July 11th is being finalized, as WBA regular heavyweight champion is looking for a substitute to replace the injured Tony Yoka.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JULY 1, 2026: The WBA has officially eliminated the bridgerweight (224-pound) division, effective immediately as of June 30, 2026. The decision was communicated directly to the division’s reigning champions and is now being made public through this official statement. The move was approved by WBA president and the organization’s Championship Committee during the most recent World Convention in Orlando, Florida. [Only the WBC now recognizes the bridgerweight division]. The WBA says the decision is part of the WBA’s ongoing efforts to streamline its championship structure and strengthen the competitive landscape across all weight classes. As for the division’s reigning titleholders, champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov and interim champion Vartan Arutyunyan, both have been informed that they will be incorporated into the WBA rankings in their respective weight classes. Gadzhimagomedov will be ranked at cruiserweight, while Arutyunyan will move into the heavyweight rankings.
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Beltless Gadzhimagomedov returns on July 11th
Former champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov returns to action on July 11th against Mexico’s Kevin Martinez. One of Russia’s most accomplished boxers, Gadzhimagomedov was the WBA bridgerweight (224-pound) champion until a fews days ago, when the WBA announced it was abolishing the new weight class. He will now face Mexican heavyweight Kevin Martinez (14-1, 10 KOs) in a ten-round contest at IBA.Pro 19 in Moscow at VTB Arena. An Olympic silver medallist and multiple-time world champion in the amateur ranks, Gadzhimagomedov has established himself as one of the leading names to emerge from the IBA system. Since turning professional, the Russian has remained unbeaten, combining elite amateur pedigree with growing confidence in the professional ranks.
The main event on July 11th is being finalized, as WBA regular heavyweight champion is looking for a substitute to replace the injured Tony Yoka.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JULY 1, 2026: The WBA has officially eliminated the bridgerweight (224-pound) division, effective immediately as of June 30, 2026. The decision was communicated directly to the division’s reigning champions and is now being made public through this official statement. The move was approved by WBA president and the organization’s Championship Committee during the most recent World Convention in Orlando, Florida. [Only the WBC now recognizes the bridgerweight division]. The WBA says the decision is part of the WBA’s ongoing efforts to streamline its championship structure and strengthen the competitive landscape across all weight classes. As for the division’s reigning titleholders, champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov and interim champion Vartan Arutyunyan, both have been informed that they will be incorporated into the WBA rankings in their respective weight classes. Gadzhimagomedov will be ranked at cruiserweight, while Arutyunyan will move into the heavyweight rankings.
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Final presser quotes from Cleveland |
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Abdullah Mason will defend his WBO lightweight title against unbeaten Toledo native Albert Bell in an all-Ohio clash this Saturday, July 4th at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center. In the co-feature, Bruce Carrington puts his WBC featherweight title on the line against Mexico’s Rene Palacios. Additionally, U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson takes on Cristopher Guerrero in a ten-round welterweight clash, while unbeaten lightweight knockout artist Scooter Davis faces Carlos Ramos in the eight-round opener. Mason-Bell headlines TNT Sports and DAZN’s inaugural The Fight event, a new monthly live boxing series, and will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN, and worldwide on DAZN beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Before the main broadcast, two bouts will stream live beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on DAZN, Top Rank and DAZN’s YouTube channels, and the Top Rank Classics Fast channel on Roku.
This is what the fighters from the main broadcast said at Thursday’s press conference:
Abdullah Mason
On fighting alongside two of his brothers in Cleveland… “I’m excited. I’m super excited. This is something me and my brothers have been looking forward to doing since we were amateurs. We fought on the same card a few times as amateurs, and all of us did it together on the last show my father threw here in Cleveland. It was huge."
“At that time, we were like, ‘Yo, when we do this on a professional level, it’s going to be big for Cleveland.’ And now, it’s big for not only Cleveland, but it’s on TNT, so this is a national stage, a world stage with DAZN. I’m just excited to be able to put this show on with two of my brothers on the card.”
On what he gained from his last fight against Sam Noakes… “I feel like it was definitely a much-needed experience. That’s not the type of fight you have all the time in your career. It was something I felt like I had to do that night. Every fight is different, and it definitely gave me some insight into how I’ll approach the rest of my career. So, it was a much-needed experience and a great fight.”
On finding out about the opponent change… “It was definitely unexpected. Albert Bell—that’s our guy from Toledo. But it’s boxing. You’ve got to be prepared for anything, and I’m prepared to come out on top. Everything happens for a reason."
“One thing I do want to say is, I’m the youngest world champion in boxing for a reason, and I’m prepared to show that when I step into the ring.”
On adjusting to the opponent switch…
“Boxing is offense, defense and IQ, and you’ve got to put it together and tailor it to the person you’re stepping in the ring with. So, with the opponent switch, I just have to tailor it to the person across the ring from me, and that’s Albert Bell."
Albert Bell
On stepping in to face Mason… “I mean, it caught me by surprise. It was an ideal opponent for me. I wasn’t really thinking about fighting Abdullah, especially not this soon. But everything made sense. I talked to my pops about it, and it made sense, so I stepped in to save the card, get my world title opportunity and put on a show for all of Ohio.”
“I mean, I get turned down by a lot of guys. I’m not saying that in a cocky way or trying to act like I’m the boogeyman or anything like that, but a lot of guys say no when my name comes across their table. I would’ve had the name I was supposed to have by now if it weren’t for that, but what’s delayed is not denied. We’re here now, and that’s all that matters.”
On what he has to do to win… “I just need to be the best version of myself. I know he's coming to be the best version of himself. He's prepared, I'm prepared. We're ready. We're two top fighters, and we're professionals. We're both Ohioans. We've got history with each other, and it's gonna be a show for sure.”
Bruce Carrington
On his performance against Carlos Castro… “The performance went exactly how it was supposed to. We had a great training camp for that fight, and we executed everything we wanted to do. We were able to break him down and get the victory the way we did. But right now, I’m just looking forward to this Saturday. My mind is focused on the opponent in front of me, Rene Palacios. He’s a good fighter. I like to challenge myself. There were a lot of guys who didn’t accept this fight, but Rene Palacios took it quickly, and I respect him for that. I see that he fights with his heart on his sleeve. His style is challenging, and I’m looking forward to it.”
On what he learned in his last fight… “There wasn’t really too much that I learned because it was something that I already seen in myself that others just haven't seen. I have that championship mentality. I've been through adversity all of my life. Just coming up from Brownsville, losing my brother, plenty other things that I've gone through in life. All the losses that I put on myself, self-sabotaging and then praying to God and getting over those things. That's the real journey and the fights in life. So, me going through all of that, I knew I was gonna be able to go through something small like that inside the ring, conquer that, and then become victorious. So it was nothing to me.”
On what we can expect fight night… “It’s the Shushu show, man. We’re going to perform, we’re going to have a great time, and I can’t wait to see y’all.”
Rene Palacios
“I feel happy and excited because the day is coming when I will fight for a world title. I think I was underestimated in my last fight. And I’m being underestimated again. But I come ready and prepared for anything. Mentally, I’m coming in very strong. I had an impressive, spectacular and perfect camp. I know July 4 is Independence Day here in the United States, and I respect that, but that night, Mexico will win.”
On if there are any errors he can take advantage of in Carrington… “Yes, of course. Like with anyone, I think there are things he can improve and things we’ve seen from him. We’ve seen his mistakes, but we have to follow the game plan, just like we did throughout camp. We’re ready.”
Tiger Johnson
On fighting in Cleveland… “I feel good, man. This is a dream come true. Outside of my Olympic dream, I always wanted to fight in Cleveland in front of my friends and family. We’re going to put on a show on Saturday."
On fighting Guerrero…
“He’s 16-0 for a reason. But at the end of the day, I don’t believe there’s anyone in my division as talented as me or with the abilities that I have. So I’m here to prove again on Saturday why I’m the best at welterweight.”
On how close he feels he is to a world title… “I feel like I’m real close, but we have to take care of business on Saturday, and then we’ll worry about that after.
Christopher Guerrero
On fighting in Tiger’s hometown… “I have to remain calm in this fight. I have to remain confident and block out all the noise.”
On seeing footage of Tiger… “I see a great opponent. He is a valiant opponent. We had to get ready for this in the best way we could. I’ll be ready Saturday night. I will be victorious.”
Scooter Davis
“I’m a kid from D.C., and I'm in Cleveland, Ohio, with Top Rank, DAZN and TNT. I'm ready to do my thing.”
“I can do anything in the ring. I can go rounds. I can box, I can bang, and I can use my ring generalship. I have IQ, and I listen to my trainers.”
“My team has a great game plan for me, and I’m going to do what I do. I’m going to be the ‘Shark.’ That’s what I do.”
Carlos Ramos
“I’m very focused, and I'm very well prepared for this fight. We've had great sparring, and we've had a great camp. I'm ready to walk away with the victory on July 4. My experience gives me a great advantage, and I plan to build on that. I’m ready for anything that comes my way. I’ll be ready to give a war to get the victory.”
“If everything goes as planned, the knockout will come.”
Saturday, July 4th / TNT, truTV & DAZN, 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
Abdullah Mason vs. Albert Bell, 12 Rounds, Mason’s WBO Lightweight World Title;
Bruce Carrington vs. Rene Palacios, 12 Rounds, Carrington’s WBC Featherweight World Title;
Tiger Johnson vs. Cristopher Guerrero, 10 Rounds, Welterweight; and
Scooter Davis vs. Carlos Ramos, 8 Rounds, Lightweight.
DAZN, Top Rank and DAZN’s YouTube Channels, & Top Rank Classics, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT
Ibrahim Mason vs. Erik Hanley, 4 Rounds, Junior lightweight; and
Abdurrahman Mason vs. Alvaro Huizar Cabral, 4 Rounds, Lightweight.
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Final presser quotes from Cleveland
Abdullah Mason will defend his WBO lightweight title against unbeaten Toledo native Albert Bell in an all-Ohio clash this Saturday, July 4th at Cleveland State University's Wolstein Center. In the co-feature, Bruce Carrington puts his WBC featherweight title on the line against Mexico’s Rene Palacios. Additionally, U.S. Olympian Tiger Johnson takes on Cristopher Guerrero in a ten-round welterweight clash, while unbeaten lightweight knockout artist Scooter Davis faces Carlos Ramos in the eight-round opener. Mason-Bell headlines TNT Sports and DAZN’s inaugural The Fight event, a new monthly live boxing series, and will be broadcast co-exclusively in the U.S. on TNT, truTV and DAZN, and worldwide on DAZN beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Before the main broadcast, two bouts will stream live beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on DAZN, Top Rank and DAZN’s YouTube channels, and the Top Rank Classics Fast channel on Roku.
This is what the fighters from the main broadcast said at Thursday’s press conference:
Abdullah Mason
On fighting alongside two of his brothers in Cleveland… “I’m excited. I’m super excited. This is something me and my brothers have been looking forward to doing since we were amateurs. We fought on the same card a few times as amateurs, and all of us did it together on the last show my father threw here in Cleveland. It was huge."
“At that time, we were like, ‘Yo, when we do this on a professional level, it’s going to be big for Cleveland.’ And now, it’s big for not only Cleveland, but it’s on TNT, so this is a national stage, a world stage with DAZN. I’m just excited to be able to put this show on with two of my brothers on the card.”
On what he gained from his last fight against Sam Noakes… “I feel like it was definitely a much-needed experience. That’s not the type of fight you have all the time in your career. It was something I felt like I had to do that night. Every fight is different, and it definitely gave me some insight into how I’ll approach the rest of my career. So, it was a much-needed experience and a great fight.”
On finding out about the opponent change… “It was definitely unexpected. Albert Bell—that’s our guy from Toledo. But it’s boxing. You’ve got to be prepared for anything, and I’m prepared to come out on top. Everything happens for a reason."
“One thing I do want to say is, I’m the youngest world champion in boxing for a reason, and I’m prepared to show that when I step into the ring.”
On adjusting to the opponent switch…
“Boxing is offense, defense and IQ, and you’ve got to put it together and tailor it to the person you’re stepping in the ring with. So, with the opponent switch, I just have to tailor it to the person across the ring from me, and that’s Albert Bell."
Albert Bell
On stepping in to face Mason… “I mean, it caught me by surprise. It was an ideal opponent for me. I wasn’t really thinking about fighting Abdullah, especially not this soon. But everything made sense. I talked to my pops about it, and it made sense, so I stepped in to save the card, get my world title opportunity and put on a show for all of Ohio.”
“I mean, I get turned down by a lot of guys. I’m not saying that in a cocky way or trying to act like I’m the boogeyman or anything like that, but a lot of guys say no when my name comes across their table. I would’ve had the name I was supposed to have by now if it weren’t for that, but what’s delayed is not denied. We’re here now, and that’s all that matters.”
On what he has to do to win… “I just need to be the best version of myself. I know he's coming to be the best version of himself. He's prepared, I'm prepared. We're ready. We're two top fighters, and we're professionals. We're both Ohioans. We've got history with each other, and it's gonna be a show for sure.”
Bruce Carrington
On his performance against Carlos Castro… “The performance went exactly how it was supposed to. We had a great training camp for that fight, and we executed everything we wanted to do. We were able to break him down and get the victory the way we did. But right now, I’m just looking forward to this Saturday. My mind is focused on the opponent in front of me, Rene Palacios. He’s a good fighter. I like to challenge myself. There were a lot of guys who didn’t accept this fight, but Rene Palacios took it quickly, and I respect him for that. I see that he fights with his heart on his sleeve. His style is challenging, and I’m looking forward to it.”
On what he learned in his last fight… “There wasn’t really too much that I learned because it was something that I already seen in myself that others just haven't seen. I have that championship mentality. I've been through adversity all of my life. Just coming up from Brownsville, losing my brother, plenty other things that I've gone through in life. All the losses that I put on myself, self-sabotaging and then praying to God and getting over those things. That's the real journey and the fights in life. So, me going through all of that, I knew I was gonna be able to go through something small like that inside the ring, conquer that, and then become victorious. So it was nothing to me.”
On what we can expect fight night… “It’s the Shushu show, man. We’re going to perform, we’re going to have a great time, and I can’t wait to see y’all.”
Rene Palacios
“I feel happy and excited because the day is coming when I will fight for a world title. I think I was underestimated in my last fight. And I’m being underestimated again. But I come ready and prepared for anything. Mentally, I’m coming in very strong. I had an impressive, spectacular and perfect camp. I know July 4 is Independence Day here in the United States, and I respect that, but that night, Mexico will win.”
On if there are any errors he can take advantage of in Carrington… “Yes, of course. Like with anyone, I think there are things he can improve and things we’ve seen from him. We’ve seen his mistakes, but we have to follow the game plan, just like we did throughout camp. We’re ready.”
Tiger Johnson
On fighting in Cleveland… “I feel good, man. This is a dream come true. Outside of my Olympic dream, I always wanted to fight in Cleveland in front of my friends and family. We’re going to put on a show on Saturday."
On fighting Guerrero…
“He’s 16-0 for a reason. But at the end of the day, I don’t believe there’s anyone in my division as talented as me or with the abilities that I have. So I’m here to prove again on Saturday why I’m the best at welterweight.”
On how close he feels he is to a world title… “I feel like I’m real close, but we have to take care of business on Saturday, and then we’ll worry about that after.
Christopher Guerrero
On fighting in Tiger’s hometown… “I have to remain calm in this fight. I have to remain confident and block out all the noise.”
On seeing footage of Tiger… “I see a great opponent. He is a valiant opponent. We had to get ready for this in the best way we could. I’ll be ready Saturday night. I will be victorious.”
Scooter Davis
“I’m a kid from D.C., and I'm in Cleveland, Ohio, with Top Rank, DAZN and TNT. I'm ready to do my thing.”
“I can do anything in the ring. I can go rounds. I can box, I can bang, and I can use my ring generalship. I have IQ, and I listen to my trainers.”
“My team has a great game plan for me, and I’m going to do what I do. I’m going to be the ‘Shark.’ That’s what I do.”
Carlos Ramos
“I’m very focused, and I'm very well prepared for this fight. We've had great sparring, and we've had a great camp. I'm ready to walk away with the victory on July 4. My experience gives me a great advantage, and I plan to build on that. I’m ready for anything that comes my way. I’ll be ready to give a war to get the victory.”
“If everything goes as planned, the knockout will come.”
Saturday, July 4th / TNT, truTV & DAZN, 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT
Abdullah Mason vs. Albert Bell, 12 Rounds, Mason’s WBO Lightweight World Title;
Bruce Carrington vs. Rene Palacios, 12 Rounds, Carrington’s WBC Featherweight World Title;
Tiger Johnson vs. Cristopher Guerrero, 10 Rounds, Welterweight; and
Scooter Davis vs. Carlos Ramos, 8 Rounds, Lightweight.
DAZN, Top Rank and DAZN’s YouTube Channels, & Top Rank Classics, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT
Ibrahim Mason vs. Erik Hanley, 4 Rounds, Junior lightweight; and
Abdurrahman Mason vs. Alvaro Huizar Cabral, 4 Rounds, Lightweight.
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Yoka injured, pulls out of Gassiev fight |
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French heavyweight Tony Yoka has withdrawn from his bout against Russia's Murat Gassiev, which was scheduled for July 11th in Moscow for Gassiev's WBA regular title. The move was caused by an injury to Yoka, according to reports by journalist Dan Rafael and L’Équipe. [The IBA later called it a back injury]. Yoka is on a run of very bad luck -- this latest setback follows the cancellation of his previous scheduled bout—set for April 25th in Paris against Britain's Lawrence Okolie, who was at the time WBC #1 contender. Okolie tested positive in a doping test four days before the fight. Yoka had been on a four-fight winning streak prior to that. Reports are that Gassiev is looking for a replacement opponent,
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Yoka injured, pulls out of Gassiev fight
French heavyweight Tony Yoka has withdrawn from his bout against Russia's Murat Gassiev, which was scheduled for July 11th in Moscow for Gassiev's WBA regular title. The move was caused by an injury to Yoka, according to reports by journalist Dan Rafael and L’Équipe. [The IBA later called it a back injury]. Yoka is on a run of very bad luck -- this latest setback follows the cancellation of his previous scheduled bout—set for April 25th in Paris against Britain's Lawrence Okolie, who was at the time WBC #1 contender. Okolie tested positive in a doping test four days before the fight. Yoka had been on a four-fight winning streak prior to that. Reports are that Gassiev is looking for a replacement opponent,
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Fury vs. Wach lands in Pattaya, Thailand |
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The WBC has confirned the locale for July 24th, when former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury tunes up against Poland's Mariusz Wach. The bout, which will mark Fury’s second appearance of 2026 following two losses to Oleksandr Usyk, will take place in Pattaya, Thailand. Fury has stated that the event will also have a charitable component, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting local organizations in Thailand. The WBC added that the British star will receive a special humanitarian recognition from the WBC during the event. Wach enters the fight at 46 years old and is not expected to disrupt plans for a super fight between Fury and fellow British ex-champion Anthony Joshua later this year.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JULY 1, 2026: The BBC and other outlets are reporting that former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury will fight 46 year-old Mariusz Wach of Poland on July 24th in Thailand. The bout, which is not expected to be competitive, will serve as Fury's tune-up for a British super fight vs. Anthony Joshua, also a former heavyweight champion. In fact, Joshua has a fight scheduled for the following day (July 25th) vs. Kristian Prenga, who like Wach, is based in New Jersey. Wach is 39-13 and was a respectable fighter in his prime and shared the ring with many big names, including ex-champ Wladimir Klitschko. But lately, he has descended to the point where he took part in a farcical MMA match where he fought three social media influencers at the same time. Fury is 35-2-1 and last fought in April, a twelve-round win over fringe contender Arslanbek Makhmudov.
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Fury vs. Wach lands in Pattaya, Thailand
The WBC has confirned the locale for July 24th, when former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury tunes up against Poland's Mariusz Wach. The bout, which will mark Fury’s second appearance of 2026 following two losses to Oleksandr Usyk, will take place in Pattaya, Thailand. Fury has stated that the event will also have a charitable component, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting local organizations in Thailand. The WBC added that the British star will receive a special humanitarian recognition from the WBC during the event. Wach enters the fight at 46 years old and is not expected to disrupt plans for a super fight between Fury and fellow British ex-champion Anthony Joshua later this year.
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JULY 1, 2026: The BBC and other outlets are reporting that former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury will fight 46 year-old Mariusz Wach of Poland on July 24th in Thailand. The bout, which is not expected to be competitive, will serve as Fury's tune-up for a British super fight vs. Anthony Joshua, also a former heavyweight champion. In fact, Joshua has a fight scheduled for the following day (July 25th) vs. Kristian Prenga, who like Wach, is based in New Jersey. Wach is 39-13 and was a respectable fighter in his prime and shared the ring with many big names, including ex-champ Wladimir Klitschko. But lately, he has descended to the point where he took part in a farcical MMA match where he fought three social media influencers at the same time. Fury is 35-2-1 and last fought in April, a twelve-round win over fringe contender Arslanbek Makhmudov.
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Javier Fortuna to dip his toe into bare knuckle waters |
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On July 18th at the James L. Knight Centerl in Miami, Florida, the IBA will present a bare knuckle fight card. The event will feature a bout between Javier Fortuna (pictured), a Dominican professional boxer, and former WBA regular champion, and Colombia's Alejandro Munera. Known in the ring as “El Abejon” (“The Bumblebee”) for his exceptional speed, aggressive boxing style, and southpaw stance, Fortuna is hoping to deliver an electrifying performance. One of the tournament’s main attractions will be a bare-knuckle showdown between Viacheslav Borshchev, a former UFC boxer from Russia and also a kickboxer, vs. Elvin Brito, Puerto Rico’s professional boxer and the inaugural BKFC champion, widely known by his nickname “El Bandido.” The event will be hosted by Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers in UFC history.
Fans will also witness a bare-knuckle clash between Russian MMA star Alan Salamov, the undefeated champion of the Nashe Delo league and HFC MMA, and American professional mixed martial artist and bare knuckle boxer Markus Suarez, also known by his nickname “Murk.” Another matchup will see undefeated Ossetian 170 pounder David Mistulov take on American professional mixed martial artist Nathan LaRocco.
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Javier Fortuna to dip his toe into bare knuckle waters
On July 18th at the James L. Knight Centerl in Miami, Florida, the IBA will present a bare knuckle fight card. The event will feature a bout between Javier Fortuna (pictured), a Dominican professional boxer, and former WBA regular champion, and Colombia's Alejandro Munera. Known in the ring as “El Abejon” (“The Bumblebee”) for his exceptional speed, aggressive boxing style, and southpaw stance, Fortuna is hoping to deliver an electrifying performance. One of the tournament’s main attractions will be a bare-knuckle showdown between Viacheslav Borshchev, a former UFC boxer from Russia and also a kickboxer, vs. Elvin Brito, Puerto Rico’s professional boxer and the inaugural BKFC champion, widely known by his nickname “El Bandido.” The event will be hosted by Jon Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers in UFC history.
Fans will also witness a bare-knuckle clash between Russian MMA star Alan Salamov, the undefeated champion of the Nashe Delo league and HFC MMA, and American professional mixed martial artist and bare knuckle boxer Markus Suarez, also known by his nickname “Murk.” Another matchup will see undefeated Ossetian 170 pounder David Mistulov take on American professional mixed martial artist Nathan LaRocco.
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WBA abolishes bridgerweight |
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The WBA has officially eliminated the bridgerweight (224-pound) division, effective immediately as of June 30, 2026. The decision was communicated directly to the division’s reigning champions and is now being made public through this official statement. The move was approved by WBA president and the organization’s Championship Committee during the most recent World Convention in Orlando, Florida. [Only the WBC now recognizes the bridgerweight division]. The WBA says the decision is part of the WBA’s ongoing efforts to streamline its championship structure and strengthen the competitive landscape across all weight classes. As for the division’s reigning titleholders, champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov and interim champion Vartan Arutyunyan, both have been informed that they will be incorporated into the WBA rankings in their respective weight classes. Gadzhimagomedov will be ranked at cruiserweight, while Arutyunyan will move into the heavyweight rankings.
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WBA abolishes bridgerweight
The WBA has officially eliminated the bridgerweight (224-pound) division, effective immediately as of June 30, 2026. The decision was communicated directly to the division’s reigning champions and is now being made public through this official statement. The move was approved by WBA president and the organization’s Championship Committee during the most recent World Convention in Orlando, Florida. [Only the WBC now recognizes the bridgerweight division]. The WBA says the decision is part of the WBA’s ongoing efforts to streamline its championship structure and strengthen the competitive landscape across all weight classes. As for the division’s reigning titleholders, champion Muslim Gadzhimagomedov and interim champion Vartan Arutyunyan, both have been informed that they will be incorporated into the WBA rankings in their respective weight classes. Gadzhimagomedov will be ranked at cruiserweight, while Arutyunyan will move into the heavyweight rankings.
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WBO orders Devin Haney to defend vs. Keyshawn Davis |
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The WBO Championship Committee has officially ordered a WBO mandatory title defense in the welterweight division between champion Devin Haney (pictured) and WBO #1 rated Keyshawn Davis. Haney (33-0) acquired the WBO title in November by defeating Brian Norman Jr. That win made Haney a three-division champion. Davis (15-0) is a former WBO lightweight champion who lost the title on the scales. His last win was a unanimous decision over Nahrir Albright in May. The terms of the WBO's order are that "the parties are granted twenty days to reach an agreement. Failing such agreement, purse bid proceedings may be requested, with the purse split to be distributed 75% to the champion and 25% to the challenger, in accordance with the WBO Rules."
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WBO orders Devin Haney to defend vs. Keyshawn Davis
The WBO Championship Committee has officially ordered a WBO mandatory title defense in the welterweight division between champion Devin Haney (pictured) and WBO #1 rated Keyshawn Davis. Haney (33-0) acquired the WBO title in November by defeating Brian Norman Jr. That win made Haney a three-division champion. Davis (15-0) is a former WBO lightweight champion who lost the title on the scales. His last win was a unanimous decision over Nahrir Albright in May. The terms of the WBO's order are that "the parties are granted twenty days to reach an agreement. Failing such agreement, purse bid proceedings may be requested, with the purse split to be distributed 75% to the champion and 25% to the challenger, in accordance with the WBO Rules."
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Fury books beyond-easy tune-up bout |
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The BBC and other outlets are reporting that former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury will fight 46 year-old Mariusz Wach of Poland on July 24th in Thailand. The bout, which is not expected to be competitive, will serve as Fury's tune-up for a British super fight vs. Anthony Joshua, also a former heavyweight champion. In fact, Joshua has a fight scheduled for the following day (July 25th) vs. Kristian Prenga, who like Wach, is based in New Jersey. Wach is 39-13 and was a respectable fighter in his prime and shared the ring with many big names, including ex-champ Wladimir Klitschko. But lately, he has descended to the point where he took part in a farcical MMA match where he fought three social media influencers at the same time. Fury is 35-2-1 and last fought in April, a twelve-round win over fringe contender Arslanbek Makhmudov.
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Fury books beyond-easy tune-up bout
The BBC and other outlets are reporting that former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury will fight 46 year-old Mariusz Wach of Poland on July 24th in Thailand. The bout, which is not expected to be competitive, will serve as Fury's tune-up for a British super fight vs. Anthony Joshua, also a former heavyweight champion. In fact, Joshua has a fight scheduled for the following day (July 25th) vs. Kristian Prenga, who like Wach, is based in New Jersey. Wach is 39-13 and was a respectable fighter in his prime and shared the ring with many big names, including ex-champ Wladimir Klitschko. But lately, he has descended to the point where he took part in a farcical MMA match where he fought three social media influencers at the same time. Fury is 35-2-1 and last fought in April, a twelve-round win over fringe contender Arslanbek Makhmudov.
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Matchroom reveals undercard for Katie Taylor farewell show |
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The undercard for Katie Taylor’s final dance is confirmed for a show that is expected to draw 80,000 fans to Dublin’s iconic Croke Park on Saturday, September 5th – live worldwide on DAZN. The event will see boxing return to Ireland’s historic home of the Gaelic Athletic Association for the first time since the late, great Muhammad Ali famously fought there in 1972. Taylor will be bidding to become a three-time undisputed queen with the WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO junior welterweight titles on the line when she headlines against France’s undefeated Flora Pili. And a bumper undercard awaits too – including an heavyweight clash between Dave Allen and Ireland’s own, Thomas Carty.
Allen (26-9-2, 20 KOs), who last summer upset Johnny Fisher in London, recently came up short in two recent huge battles with Arslanbek Makhmudov and Filip Hrgovic. But the Doncaster favourite returned to winning ways earlier this month with a points win over Ross McGuigan. Carty (11-1, 9 KOs), meanwhile, was successful in his last outing back in March when he defeated German Skobenko on points almost a year after his only career defeat to date when he suffered a severe knee injury during his American debut against Dajuan Calloway.
In an exciting all-Irish clash, IBF #1 ranked welterweight Paddy Donovan (15-2, 11 KOs) from Limerick meets Belfast’s battle-hardened Tyrone McKenna (25-6-1, 8 KOs).
Taylor’s cousin – the former UFC star turned professional boxer – Molly ‘Meatball’ McCann (4-0, 1 KO) will be hoping to set the tone earlier in the night as she looks to extend her winning start to life with Matchroom Boxing when she faces Yorkshire’s Sylwia Doligala (8-2-2).
Super middleweight Taylor Bevan (9-0, 8 KOs), who earlier this month celebrated a home win at Southampton’s St Mary’s, will be looking for back-to-back stadium show wins as he takes on Dublin fighter Emmet Brennan (6-0, 1 KO).
In a battle of unbeatens, Liverpool super bantamweight Joe McGrail (13-0, 6 KOs) collides with Coleraine’s Matthew Boreland (7-0, 2 KOs)
It’s Dublin versus Belfast as two middleweight rivals in Paul Ryan (10-2, 4 KOs) andPaddy Gallagher (17-6, 10 KOs) go head-to-head.
Plus, two of Queensberry Promotions up-and-coming starlets look to shine on home soil as Dublin heavyweight Adam Olaniyan (2-0, 2 KOs) and Dublin junior middlewweight Bobbi Flood (2-0, 1 KO) plan to get the home fans in the mood for a historic night for Irish sport.
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn said: “With so much Irish talent on the undercard, it will be a special, party atmosphere at Croke Park before 80,000 fans get behind the great Katie Taylor for her final ever fight. I love the Allen-Carty fight. Two experienced Heavyweights, in a make-or-break fight, out to score an almighty win. Plus, Paddy Donovan fresh from his recent heroics in Germany looks to underline his status as Ireland’s No.1 Welterweight – and underline why he is next in line to challenge for the IBF crown.
“Molly McCann looked great in her recent win in Liverpool and she has a huge year ahead. But she will be over the moon to be on this card, especially with her cousin Katie Taylor headlining.
“Joe McGrail has got a tough test against Matthew Boreland in front of him but he is in a prime position to kick on in the Super Bantamweight division> And so too does Taylor Bevan, whose stock continues to grow after his hard-fought victory in Southampton.
“It will be a huge celebration for Irish sport and this card – live worldwide on the Global Home of DAZN – will certainly deliver for the 80,000 fans who pack into Croke Park on September 5rh”.
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Matchroom reveals undercard for Katie Taylor farewell show
The undercard for Katie Taylor’s final dance is confirmed for a show that is expected to draw 80,000 fans to Dublin’s iconic Croke Park on Saturday, September 5th – live worldwide on DAZN. The event will see boxing return to Ireland’s historic home of the Gaelic Athletic Association for the first time since the late, great Muhammad Ali famously fought there in 1972. Taylor will be bidding to become a three-time undisputed queen with the WBC, WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO junior welterweight titles on the line when she headlines against France’s undefeated Flora Pili. And a bumper undercard awaits too – including an heavyweight clash between Dave Allen and Ireland’s own, Thomas Carty.
Allen (26-9-2, 20 KOs), who last summer upset Johnny Fisher in London, recently came up short in two recent huge battles with Arslanbek Makhmudov and Filip Hrgovic. But the Doncaster favourite returned to winning ways earlier this month with a points win over Ross McGuigan. Carty (11-1, 9 KOs), meanwhile, was successful in his last outing back in March when he defeated German Skobenko on points almost a year after his only career defeat to date when he suffered a severe knee injury during his American debut against Dajuan Calloway.
In an exciting all-Irish clash, IBF #1 ranked welterweight Paddy Donovan (15-2, 11 KOs) from Limerick meets Belfast’s battle-hardened Tyrone McKenna (25-6-1, 8 KOs).
Taylor’s cousin – the former UFC star turned professional boxer – Molly ‘Meatball’ McCann (4-0, 1 KO) will be hoping to set the tone earlier in the night as she looks to extend her winning start to life with Matchroom Boxing when she faces Yorkshire’s Sylwia Doligala (8-2-2).
Super middleweight Taylor Bevan (9-0, 8 KOs), who earlier this month celebrated a home win at Southampton’s St Mary’s, will be looking for back-to-back stadium show wins as he takes on Dublin fighter Emmet Brennan (6-0, 1 KO).
In a battle of unbeatens, Liverpool super bantamweight Joe McGrail (13-0, 6 KOs) collides with Coleraine’s Matthew Boreland (7-0, 2 KOs)
It’s Dublin versus Belfast as two middleweight rivals in Paul Ryan (10-2, 4 KOs) andPaddy Gallagher (17-6, 10 KOs) go head-to-head.
Plus, two of Queensberry Promotions up-and-coming starlets look to shine on home soil as Dublin heavyweight Adam Olaniyan (2-0, 2 KOs) and Dublin junior middlewweight Bobbi Flood (2-0, 1 KO) plan to get the home fans in the mood for a historic night for Irish sport.
Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn said: “With so much Irish talent on the undercard, it will be a special, party atmosphere at Croke Park before 80,000 fans get behind the great Katie Taylor for her final ever fight. I love the Allen-Carty fight. Two experienced Heavyweights, in a make-or-break fight, out to score an almighty win. Plus, Paddy Donovan fresh from his recent heroics in Germany looks to underline his status as Ireland’s No.1 Welterweight – and underline why he is next in line to challenge for the IBF crown.
“Molly McCann looked great in her recent win in Liverpool and she has a huge year ahead. But she will be over the moon to be on this card, especially with her cousin Katie Taylor headlining.
“Joe McGrail has got a tough test against Matthew Boreland in front of him but he is in a prime position to kick on in the Super Bantamweight division> And so too does Taylor Bevan, whose stock continues to grow after his hard-fought victory in Southampton.
“It will be a huge celebration for Irish sport and this card – live worldwide on the Global Home of DAZN – will certainly deliver for the 80,000 fans who pack into Croke Park on September 5rh”.
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Early KO win for Guilmette in Rhode Island |
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Will Guilmette TKO1 Andrei Pereira... Headlining the CES show in Rhode Island last weekend, local super middleweight Will "The Ghost" Guilmette wasted little time blasting out late replacement Andrei Pereira (0-2) in just 57 seconds to improve to 3-0 with 3 knockouts. The 24-year old, trained by Peter Manfredo Sr., stormed across the ring from the opening bell and immediately landed a crushing right hand that sent Pereira crashing to the canvas. Although Pereira beat the count, Guilmette unleashed a relentless follow-up assault that forced referee Joe Lupino to halt the contest at the 57-second mark of the opening round.The emphatic victory keeps Guilmette's knockout streak intact and sets the stage for his return on September 26th at Bally's Twin River Casino. "It was another step forward," said CES Boxing Founder Jimmy Burchfield Sr. "Will has all the tools, and he's only getting better. The future is bright for him."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The co-feature belonged to hometown favorite Tyler "My Time" Macari, who continued his rise. The Cranston native improved to 4-0 with 3 KOs with a shutout unanimous decision over rugged St. Louis veteran Keegan Young (1-5), winning every round on the scorecards while going the four-round distance for the first time as a professional. While Macari controlled the action throughout with his sharp boxing and superior timing, Young refused to go away, forcing the 26-year-old junior middleweight to work for every minute of the contest. For a prospect in need of valuable rounds, it was exactly the kind of experience that will help Macari as he steps up in competition.
Topping the undercard, Johnston welterweight Kevin “Kut Throat” Mojica, a Dominican-born southpaw, improved to 5-0 with 5 knockouts, stopping Pawtucket's Yeison Berdugo at 2:16 of the opening round. Mojica sent Berdugo (0-4) to the canvas with a left uppercut to the head late in round one. After Berdugo beat the count, Mojica immediately ripped a combination to the body, dropping his opponent for the full ten count and extending his perfect knockout streak.
Someone’s ‘O’ had to go when undefeated welterweights Victor Guerra Vargas and Raheem Davis squared off in an entertaining New England showdown. Norwalk, Connecticut's Vargas improved to 3-0 with 2 KOs with a unanimous decision over Providence's Davis (2-1), earning identical 39-37 scorecards from all three judges. The contest featured a fascinating contrast in styles. The shorter, pressure-oriented Vargas patiently worked his way inside against the taller, rangier Davis, who fought Vargas on even terms during the opening two rounds. Beginning in the third, however, the 28-year-old Venezuelan began to wear Davis down, digging heavy shots to the body before following with looping hooks and overhand rights upstairs. The fighters continued exchanging punches until the final bell.
Rhode Wars 6 opened with another winning performance from New Bedford bantamweight Josh Alvarado, who earned a second-round technical knockout over Tyreek Muhammad (1-1).
Muhammad came out aggressively, throwing punches in bunches during the opening round, but Alvarado remained composed, repeatedly landing crisp counters—including a perfectly timed pull-counter right hand that consistently split Muhammad's guard. In round two, Alvarado connected with a devastating left hook combination to the head and body that dropped Muhammad, prompting referee Joe Lupino to wave off the contest at 2:55 of the second round. The victory improved Alvarado to 4-1 (2 KOs) and sets up an intriguing showdown with fellow New England prospect Joseph Chisholm on July 24th at Mohegan Sun Arena.
With generations of New England boxing royalty looking on from ringside—including Hall of Famer Vinny Paz, multi-time former world champion "Bad" Chad Dawson, and fellow CES Boxing legends Gary "Tiger" Balletto, Peter Manfredo Jr., Matt Godfrey, and Rich LaMontagne—the next wave of local talent delivered a statement performance at Rhode Wars 6, showing that the region’s proud boxing tradition is in very capable hands.
"This is exactly why we do what we do," said CES Boxing Founder Jimmy Burchfield Sr. "For nearly four decades, CES Boxing has been committed to developing the next generation of champions, and Saturday night showed that the future of Rhode Island boxing is incredibly bright. Will Guilmette, Tyler Macari and Kevin Mojica all took another step forward, and they're just part of a talented group of young fighters who are carrying the torch for this region."
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Early KO win for Guilmette in Rhode Island
Will Guilmette TKO1 Andrei Pereira... Headlining the CES show in Rhode Island last weekend, local super middleweight Will "The Ghost" Guilmette wasted little time blasting out late replacement Andrei Pereira (0-2) in just 57 seconds to improve to 3-0 with 3 knockouts. The 24-year old, trained by Peter Manfredo Sr., stormed across the ring from the opening bell and immediately landed a crushing right hand that sent Pereira crashing to the canvas. Although Pereira beat the count, Guilmette unleashed a relentless follow-up assault that forced referee Joe Lupino to halt the contest at the 57-second mark of the opening round.The emphatic victory keeps Guilmette's knockout streak intact and sets the stage for his return on September 26th at Bally's Twin River Casino. "It was another step forward," said CES Boxing Founder Jimmy Burchfield Sr. "Will has all the tools, and he's only getting better. The future is bright for him."
ADDITIONAL RESULTS
The co-feature belonged to hometown favorite Tyler "My Time" Macari, who continued his rise. The Cranston native improved to 4-0 with 3 KOs with a shutout unanimous decision over rugged St. Louis veteran Keegan Young (1-5), winning every round on the scorecards while going the four-round distance for the first time as a professional. While Macari controlled the action throughout with his sharp boxing and superior timing, Young refused to go away, forcing the 26-year-old junior middleweight to work for every minute of the contest. For a prospect in need of valuable rounds, it was exactly the kind of experience that will help Macari as he steps up in competition.
Topping the undercard, Johnston welterweight Kevin “Kut Throat” Mojica, a Dominican-born southpaw, improved to 5-0 with 5 knockouts, stopping Pawtucket's Yeison Berdugo at 2:16 of the opening round. Mojica sent Berdugo (0-4) to the canvas with a left uppercut to the head late in round one. After Berdugo beat the count, Mojica immediately ripped a combination to the body, dropping his opponent for the full ten count and extending his perfect knockout streak.
Someone’s ‘O’ had to go when undefeated welterweights Victor Guerra Vargas and Raheem Davis squared off in an entertaining New England showdown. Norwalk, Connecticut's Vargas improved to 3-0 with 2 KOs with a unanimous decision over Providence's Davis (2-1), earning identical 39-37 scorecards from all three judges. The contest featured a fascinating contrast in styles. The shorter, pressure-oriented Vargas patiently worked his way inside against the taller, rangier Davis, who fought Vargas on even terms during the opening two rounds. Beginning in the third, however, the 28-year-old Venezuelan began to wear Davis down, digging heavy shots to the body before following with looping hooks and overhand rights upstairs. The fighters continued exchanging punches until the final bell.
Rhode Wars 6 opened with another winning performance from New Bedford bantamweight Josh Alvarado, who earned a second-round technical knockout over Tyreek Muhammad (1-1).
Muhammad came out aggressively, throwing punches in bunches during the opening round, but Alvarado remained composed, repeatedly landing crisp counters—including a perfectly timed pull-counter right hand that consistently split Muhammad's guard. In round two, Alvarado connected with a devastating left hook combination to the head and body that dropped Muhammad, prompting referee Joe Lupino to wave off the contest at 2:55 of the second round. The victory improved Alvarado to 4-1 (2 KOs) and sets up an intriguing showdown with fellow New England prospect Joseph Chisholm on July 24th at Mohegan Sun Arena.
With generations of New England boxing royalty looking on from ringside—including Hall of Famer Vinny Paz, multi-time former world champion "Bad" Chad Dawson, and fellow CES Boxing legends Gary "Tiger" Balletto, Peter Manfredo Jr., Matt Godfrey, and Rich LaMontagne—the next wave of local talent delivered a statement performance at Rhode Wars 6, showing that the region’s proud boxing tradition is in very capable hands.
"This is exactly why we do what we do," said CES Boxing Founder Jimmy Burchfield Sr. "For nearly four decades, CES Boxing has been committed to developing the next generation of champions, and Saturday night showed that the future of Rhode Island boxing is incredibly bright. Will Guilmette, Tyler Macari and Kevin Mojica all took another step forward, and they're just part of a talented group of young fighters who are carrying the torch for this region."
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Late Results from Spain |
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Mary Romero W10 Ewelina Pekalska... In San Isidro de Níjar, Spain local veteran Mary Romero made a triumphant return to the squared circle by capturing ta flyweight bout againts Ewelina Pekalska (9-2) of Poland by unanimous decision. The ten-round bout saw Romero, a three-time European super bantamweight champion, dig deep in an extremely close and tactical battle. At the end of the road, the judges backed the Spaniard’s impact and rhythm with official scorecards of 96-93 and 95-94 (twice). This victory holds double value for Romero (14-9, 2 KOs), who was returning to the ring after a six-month layoff due to an injury that forced her to undergo surgery three times on her left hand. Furthermore, during the heat of battle, she absorbed heavy punishment that caused damage to one of her eyes, a situation that did not diminish her bravery. At 40 years old, Romero has her plans clearly laid out. “This victory will position me high on the WBC list, whose current world champion is Gabriela Fundora. I hope they give me the opportunity to fight her and then retire so my body can rest, which it truly deserves,” she commented.
ADDITIONAL RESULT
In the evening’s other professional matchup, a six-round lightweight bout, Spaniard José Antonio Sánchez Romero (18-3-1, 6 KOs) added a valuable victory to his record by securing a clear points win (59-55) overVenezuelan journeyman Ángel Guédez (6-16, 4 KOs).
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Late Results from Spain
Mary Romero W10 Ewelina Pekalska... In San Isidro de Níjar, Spain local veteran Mary Romero made a triumphant return to the squared circle by capturing ta flyweight bout againts Ewelina Pekalska (9-2) of Poland by unanimous decision. The ten-round bout saw Romero, a three-time European super bantamweight champion, dig deep in an extremely close and tactical battle. At the end of the road, the judges backed the Spaniard’s impact and rhythm with official scorecards of 96-93 and 95-94 (twice). This victory holds double value for Romero (14-9, 2 KOs), who was returning to the ring after a six-month layoff due to an injury that forced her to undergo surgery three times on her left hand. Furthermore, during the heat of battle, she absorbed heavy punishment that caused damage to one of her eyes, a situation that did not diminish her bravery. At 40 years old, Romero has her plans clearly laid out. “This victory will position me high on the WBC list, whose current world champion is Gabriela Fundora. I hope they give me the opportunity to fight her and then retire so my body can rest, which it truly deserves,” she commented.
ADDITIONAL RESULT
In the evening’s other professional matchup, a six-round lightweight bout, Spaniard José Antonio Sánchez Romero (18-3-1, 6 KOs) added a valuable victory to his record by securing a clear points win (59-55) overVenezuelan journeyman Ángel Guédez (6-16, 4 KOs).
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BKFC results from last weekend |
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On Friday at BKFC Fight Night at the sold-out Horseshoe Hammond Casino in Hammond, Indiana, Gregoris “The Venezuelan Viper” Cisneros turned heads, knocking out UFC vet Cameron “Jumpman” VanCamp in the first round of their welterweight battle. The fight was stopped with 11 seconds remaining in the opening stanza. The Venezuelan-born Chicago product recorded three knockdowns and now has a 5-2 overall record in bare knuckle fighting. “Thank you to BKFC for letting me in,” CIsneros said in his post-fight interview. “The rest of the welterweight division better be ready because we’re coming for the title.” VanCamp, a product of Indianapolis, IN, is now 3-3 under the BKFC banner.
Former BKFC heavyweight champion Arnold “Bomaye” Adams proved that he’s still one of the most dangerous fighters on the BKFC roster, stopping Steve “Panda” Banks in the second round. Time of the KO was 1:21 in the second frame. The Chicago product is now 8-5 in the squared circle, while the Jeffersonville, IN big man Banks is now 4-4. Adams called out fellow former BKFC heavyweight champion “Big” Ben Rothwell in his post-fight interview: “Send me a contract, I’ll sign it, and we’ll get to it.”
Brandon “Stronghold” Conley cruised to 3-0-1 with a first-round TKO over Aubrey “Merciless” Mendoca in light heavyweight action. The bout was stopped with 19 seconds left in the opening frame. All of Conley’s victories have come by stoppage. Mendoca, a product of Fort Madison, IA, is now 1-1.
The ironweight (a/k/a bridgerweight) fight between Alex “The Rhino” Davis and Gabriel “Mano De Piedra” Mota was declared a no contest due to an illegal fight-ending elbow strike. Time of the stoppage was 1:23 in the opening round. The Coal Mountain, WV product Davis is now 1-3, 1 NC; Mota, who was fighting in his hometown, is now 2-3, 1 NC.
Westland, MI’s Justin “The Nightmare” Street upped his BKFC record to 4-3 with a fourth-round TKO over Ronny Hauser in the bantamweight division. The bout was halted with 14 seconds left in the penultimate round. Hauser, who hails from Hoffman Estates, IL, is now 1-1.
With Ben Rothwell in his corner, unbeaten Kenosha, WI light-heavyweight Tom “The Spider Monkey” Angeloff improved to 2-0 at the expense of “The Infamous” JoJo Schillizzi. The fight was stopped at 1:07 of the opening round after Schillizzi was unable to continue due to a shoulder injury. Schillizzi, who represents Williamston, NC, was stepping into the squared circle for the first time.
Tampa, FL’s Stevo “The Blessed” Morris edged out Brandon “The Voodoo Child” Meneses for the split-decision victory in their featherweight bout. Two judges scored the fight for Morris (49-46, 48-47) and one judge scored the contest 48-47 for the North Richland Hills, TX product Meneses. Morris is now 3-2; Meneses is now 1-2-1.
Maywood, IL’s Martez McGregor won his BKFC debut, stopping Casey “The Lawless” Moses in the third round of their welterweight bout. McGregor logged three knockdowns before the fight was stopped 40 seconds into the third stanza. Moses, who represents Mattoon, IL, is now 1-2.
Pittsburgh, PA’s Branko Busick needed just 24 seconds to steamroll Anthony “Dozer” Mendoza in cruiserweight action. The former West Virginia University Mountaineers linebacker is now 1-1 under the BKFC banner. Mendoza, who hails from Chicago, IL, was stepping into the Squared Circle for the first time.
Canadian Alexandra Delgado-Lopez reigned supreme over Natalie Gage in their battle of undefeated strawweights. The Edmonton, AB product is now 3-0 after all three judges agreed on the 30-27 verdict. Gage, who represents Indianapolis, IN and entered fight night as the No. 3 contender in the BKFC women’s strawweight division, is now 2-1.
Former Arizona State University Sun Devils wrestling star Anthony “The Pistol” Pike earned his first BKFC victory with a TKO at the expense of Travis “The Hybrid” Smith in the opening bout of the night. Pike recorded three knockdowns to the finish at 1:33 of the opening round. The Tucson, AZ welterweight is now 1-1 in the squared circle; while the Plymouth, IN product Smith is now 0-2.
BKFC Fight Night Hammond Results
Gregoris Cisneros def. Cameron VanCamp via KO in Round 1 (1:49)
Arnold Adams def. Steve Banks via KO in Round 2 (1:21)
Brandon Conley def. Aubrey Mendoca via TKO in Round 1 (1:41)
Alex Davis vs. Gabriel Mota ruled a No Contest in Round 1 (1:23)
Justin Street def. Ronny Hauser via TKO in Round 4 (1:46)
Tom Angeloff def. JoJo Schillizzi via TKO in Round 1 (1:07)
Stevo Morris def. Brandon Meneses via Split Decision (49-46, 47-48, 48-47)
Martez McGregor def. Casey Moses via KO in Round 3 (0:40)
Branko Busick def. Anthony Mendoza via KO in Round 1 (0:24)
Alexandra Delgado-Lopez def. (3) Natalie Gage via Unanimous Decision (30-27x3)
Anthony Pike def. Travis Smith via TKO in Round 1 (1:33)
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BKFC results from last weekend
On Friday at BKFC Fight Night at the sold-out Horseshoe Hammond Casino in Hammond, Indiana, Gregoris “The Venezuelan Viper” Cisneros turned heads, knocking out UFC vet Cameron “Jumpman” VanCamp in the first round of their welterweight battle. The fight was stopped with 11 seconds remaining in the opening stanza. The Venezuelan-born Chicago product recorded three knockdowns and now has a 5-2 overall record in bare knuckle fighting. “Thank you to BKFC for letting me in,” CIsneros said in his post-fight interview. “The rest of the welterweight division better be ready because we’re coming for the title.” VanCamp, a product of Indianapolis, IN, is now 3-3 under the BKFC banner.
Former BKFC heavyweight champion Arnold “Bomaye” Adams proved that he’s still one of the most dangerous fighters on the BKFC roster, stopping Steve “Panda” Banks in the second round. Time of the KO was 1:21 in the second frame. The Chicago product is now 8-5 in the squared circle, while the Jeffersonville, IN big man Banks is now 4-4. Adams called out fellow former BKFC heavyweight champion “Big” Ben Rothwell in his post-fight interview: “Send me a contract, I’ll sign it, and we’ll get to it.”
Brandon “Stronghold” Conley cruised to 3-0-1 with a first-round TKO over Aubrey “Merciless” Mendoca in light heavyweight action. The bout was stopped with 19 seconds left in the opening frame. All of Conley’s victories have come by stoppage. Mendoca, a product of Fort Madison, IA, is now 1-1.
The ironweight (a/k/a bridgerweight) fight between Alex “The Rhino” Davis and Gabriel “Mano De Piedra” Mota was declared a no contest due to an illegal fight-ending elbow strike. Time of the stoppage was 1:23 in the opening round. The Coal Mountain, WV product Davis is now 1-3, 1 NC; Mota, who was fighting in his hometown, is now 2-3, 1 NC.
Westland, MI’s Justin “The Nightmare” Street upped his BKFC record to 4-3 with a fourth-round TKO over Ronny Hauser in the bantamweight division. The bout was halted with 14 seconds left in the penultimate round. Hauser, who hails from Hoffman Estates, IL, is now 1-1.
With Ben Rothwell in his corner, unbeaten Kenosha, WI light-heavyweight Tom “The Spider Monkey” Angeloff improved to 2-0 at the expense of “The Infamous” JoJo Schillizzi. The fight was stopped at 1:07 of the opening round after Schillizzi was unable to continue due to a shoulder injury. Schillizzi, who represents Williamston, NC, was stepping into the squared circle for the first time.
Tampa, FL’s Stevo “The Blessed” Morris edged out Brandon “The Voodoo Child” Meneses for the split-decision victory in their featherweight bout. Two judges scored the fight for Morris (49-46, 48-47) and one judge scored the contest 48-47 for the North Richland Hills, TX product Meneses. Morris is now 3-2; Meneses is now 1-2-1.
Maywood, IL’s Martez McGregor won his BKFC debut, stopping Casey “The Lawless” Moses in the third round of their welterweight bout. McGregor logged three knockdowns before the fight was stopped 40 seconds into the third stanza. Moses, who represents Mattoon, IL, is now 1-2.
Pittsburgh, PA’s Branko Busick needed just 24 seconds to steamroll Anthony “Dozer” Mendoza in cruiserweight action. The former West Virginia University Mountaineers linebacker is now 1-1 under the BKFC banner. Mendoza, who hails from Chicago, IL, was stepping into the Squared Circle for the first time.
Canadian Alexandra Delgado-Lopez reigned supreme over Natalie Gage in their battle of undefeated strawweights. The Edmonton, AB product is now 3-0 after all three judges agreed on the 30-27 verdict. Gage, who represents Indianapolis, IN and entered fight night as the No. 3 contender in the BKFC women’s strawweight division, is now 2-1.
Former Arizona State University Sun Devils wrestling star Anthony “The Pistol” Pike earned his first BKFC victory with a TKO at the expense of Travis “The Hybrid” Smith in the opening bout of the night. Pike recorded three knockdowns to the finish at 1:33 of the opening round. The Tucson, AZ welterweight is now 1-1 in the squared circle; while the Plymouth, IN product Smith is now 0-2.
BKFC Fight Night Hammond Results
Gregoris Cisneros def. Cameron VanCamp via KO in Round 1 (1:49)
Arnold Adams def. Steve Banks via KO in Round 2 (1:21)
Brandon Conley def. Aubrey Mendoca via TKO in Round 1 (1:41)
Alex Davis vs. Gabriel Mota ruled a No Contest in Round 1 (1:23)
Justin Street def. Ronny Hauser via TKO in Round 4 (1:46)
Tom Angeloff def. JoJo Schillizzi via TKO in Round 1 (1:07)
Stevo Morris def. Brandon Meneses via Split Decision (49-46, 47-48, 48-47)
Martez McGregor def. Casey Moses via KO in Round 3 (0:40)
Branko Busick def. Anthony Mendoza via KO in Round 1 (0:24)
Alexandra Delgado-Lopez def. (3) Natalie Gage via Unanimous Decision (30-27x3)
Anthony Pike def. Travis Smith via TKO in Round 1 (1:33)
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De Los Santos to appeal KO loss to Valenzuela |
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Fighters First Management CEO Adrian Clark, manager of Edwin De Los Santos, has announced his intent to appeal the results of De Los Santos’ loss to Jose Valenzuela this past Sunday with the Nevada Athletic Commission. Replays if the end of the lightweight bout show Valenzuela throwing and connecting with a punch after De Los Santos was already down on the canvas. “Rules are rules. It doesn’t matter where the shot landed or how hard it was,” said Clark. “When a fighter is on a knee or down, it is illegal to hit him. Edwin was robbed of the opportunity to recover from the blatantly illegal shot. It’s my job to make this appeal. The punch that knocked him down was a good shot by Valenzuela. However, if De Los Santos was out, the referee would have immediately waived the count and called the fight. Everyone watching that fight knows that is a foul."
Clark continued, “My petition is based around the protection of fighters. If the commission for the state that lands a majority of the big fights says that an illegal shot has no bearing on the outcome of a fight, that’s a problem for the sport.”
Clark also pointed out that when De Los Santos and Valenzuela first met in 2022, De Los Santos was penalized for hitting Valenzuela while he was down. “A situation similar to this occurred in their first fight. Edwin landed a punch after Valenzuela was through the ropes. The difference is, the foul was recognized, called, Edwin was deducted a point and Valenzuela had time to recover.”
[Valenzuela went on to win and lose a 140-pound world title prior to last weekend's rematch].
De Los Santos stated that no matter how the process plays out, he plans to pursue another fight with Valenzuela to settle the score for good. “I will let the appeal go through the proper channels, but I am not going to focus on the illegal hit,” said De Los Santos. “I got caught with a good shot. I was stunned, but not hurt. I won’t make any excuses. Eventually I’m going to get the opportunity to fight him again.”
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 28, 2026... In the Zuffa Boxing main event, ex-junior welterweight champion Jose “El Rayo” Valenzuela avenged a defeat with a second-round knockout of Edwin De Los Santos. In 2022, De Los Santos took the win in their first meeting when he knocked out Valenzuela in the third round in a fight that saw both men hit the canvas. But in the rematch four years later, Valenzuela showed his evolution as he knocked out De Los Santos in the second round to deliver a statement to the rest of the lightweight division. A sharp start from De Los Santos almost ended in disaster at the end of the opening round when Valenzuela connected with a huge left hand that badly wobbled the Dominican in the closing seconds. Another follow-up left hand wobbled De Los Santos again, but the round came to a close before “Rayo” was able to take full advantage.
Having seen the results of his power punches late in the first round, Valenzuela resumed his attack in the second and clipped De Los Santos again as he stalked his man around the ring. Valenzuela stayed composed and landed again, which drew De Los Santos off the ropes and into a wild battle of hooks. Valenzuela covered up well and unleashed a perfectly-timed right hook that sent De Los Santos down to the canvas for the count of ten.
It gave Valenzuela the most satisfying, and important, victory of this chapter of his career as the former 140-pound world champion proved himself as a legitimate contender for 135-pound championship gold. And after improving his career record to 16-3 with the 10th knockout of his career, “Rayo” capped off his night by making clear what he wants next – a fight with pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson.
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De Los Santos to appeal KO loss to Valenzuela
Fighters First Management CEO Adrian Clark, manager of Edwin De Los Santos, has announced his intent to appeal the results of De Los Santos’ loss to Jose Valenzuela this past Sunday with the Nevada Athletic Commission. Replays if the end of the lightweight bout show Valenzuela throwing and connecting with a punch after De Los Santos was already down on the canvas. “Rules are rules. It doesn’t matter where the shot landed or how hard it was,” said Clark. “When a fighter is on a knee or down, it is illegal to hit him. Edwin was robbed of the opportunity to recover from the blatantly illegal shot. It’s my job to make this appeal. The punch that knocked him down was a good shot by Valenzuela. However, if De Los Santos was out, the referee would have immediately waived the count and called the fight. Everyone watching that fight knows that is a foul."
Clark continued, “My petition is based around the protection of fighters. If the commission for the state that lands a majority of the big fights says that an illegal shot has no bearing on the outcome of a fight, that’s a problem for the sport.”
Clark also pointed out that when De Los Santos and Valenzuela first met in 2022, De Los Santos was penalized for hitting Valenzuela while he was down. “A situation similar to this occurred in their first fight. Edwin landed a punch after Valenzuela was through the ropes. The difference is, the foul was recognized, called, Edwin was deducted a point and Valenzuela had time to recover.”
[Valenzuela went on to win and lose a 140-pound world title prior to last weekend's rematch].
De Los Santos stated that no matter how the process plays out, he plans to pursue another fight with Valenzuela to settle the score for good. “I will let the appeal go through the proper channels, but I am not going to focus on the illegal hit,” said De Los Santos. “I got caught with a good shot. I was stunned, but not hurt. I won’t make any excuses. Eventually I’m going to get the opportunity to fight him again.”
PRIOR BOXINGTALK COVERAGE
JUNE 28, 2026... In the Zuffa Boxing main event, ex-junior welterweight champion Jose “El Rayo” Valenzuela avenged a defeat with a second-round knockout of Edwin De Los Santos. In 2022, De Los Santos took the win in their first meeting when he knocked out Valenzuela in the third round in a fight that saw both men hit the canvas. But in the rematch four years later, Valenzuela showed his evolution as he knocked out De Los Santos in the second round to deliver a statement to the rest of the lightweight division. A sharp start from De Los Santos almost ended in disaster at the end of the opening round when Valenzuela connected with a huge left hand that badly wobbled the Dominican in the closing seconds. Another follow-up left hand wobbled De Los Santos again, but the round came to a close before “Rayo” was able to take full advantage.
Having seen the results of his power punches late in the first round, Valenzuela resumed his attack in the second and clipped De Los Santos again as he stalked his man around the ring. Valenzuela stayed composed and landed again, which drew De Los Santos off the ropes and into a wild battle of hooks. Valenzuela covered up well and unleashed a perfectly-timed right hook that sent De Los Santos down to the canvas for the count of ten.
It gave Valenzuela the most satisfying, and important, victory of this chapter of his career as the former 140-pound world champion proved himself as a legitimate contender for 135-pound championship gold. And after improving his career record to 16-3 with the 10th knockout of his career, “Rayo” capped off his night by making clear what he wants next – a fight with pound-for-pound star Shakur Stevenson.
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Lopez looking to challenge Romero next |
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Boxing managers Keith Connolly and Mike Borao posted on Facebook: "Breaking news! Teofimo Lopez has just announced he has verbally agreed to a huge fight against Rolly Romero for the WBA welterweight championship of the world live on DAZN." Lopez, whose record is 22-2, was a world champion at both 135 and 140 pounds. In January, he lost the world 140-pound championship to Shakur Stevenson. Romero (17-2) hasn't fought since May 2025, but that was a big win over Ryan Garcia for ther vacant WBA title. The WBA has not required Romero to do any mandatories since then and there is no confirmation Romero has agreed to fight Lopez yet.
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Lopez looking to challenge Romero next
Boxing managers Keith Connolly and Mike Borao posted on Facebook: "Breaking news! Teofimo Lopez has just announced he has verbally agreed to a huge fight against Rolly Romero for the WBA welterweight championship of the world live on DAZN." Lopez, whose record is 22-2, was a world champion at both 135 and 140 pounds. In January, he lost the world 140-pound championship to Shakur Stevenson. Romero (17-2) hasn't fought since May 2025, but that was a big win over Ryan Garcia for ther vacant WBA title. The WBA has not required Romero to do any mandatories since then and there is no confirmation Romero has agreed to fight Lopez yet.
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